BEST OF SB 2023! by SB Magazine

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Denis Poljak, Ph.D., CPM®, CIMA®, CFP® Partner Managing Director Wealth Manager

Celebrating theSeason… AND SERVING YOU!

333 TEXAS ST., SUITE 2230, SHREVEPORT, LA 71101

W E A LT H M A N AG E M E N T At Steward Partners

318-674-4100

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC, registered broker/dealer, member FINRA/SIPC, and SEC registered investment adviser. Investment Advisory Services may also be offered through Steward Partners Investment Advisory, LLC, a SEC registered investment adviser. Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC, Steward Partners Investment Advisory, LLC, and Steward Partners Global Advisory, LLC are affiliates and separately operated. Poljak Group Wealth Management is a team at Steward Partners. Denis Poljak, Ph.D., CPM®, CIMA®, CFP®, Wealth Manager — 27 years • Davor Poljak, MBA, CPM®, Wealth Manager — 20 years • Jason Adams, MBA, Client Relationship Manager — 22 years Joseph Fell, MBA, Wealth & Portfolio Specialist — 7 years • Scott Salvail, Wealth & Portfolio Specialist — 10 years • John Simpson, Wealth & Portfolio Specialist|— 7 years 23/24 3 SBMAG.NET DEC/JAN Ryan Yarbrough, Registered Client Administrative Manager — 7 years

PUBLISHER

EDITOR

G. Byron May

OWNERS G. Byron May

his is it! SB Magazine is finishing its 23rd year in 2023 with the inauguration of its first bi-monthly issue. And what could be better than showing off our Best of SB Magazine top vote-getters on the cover? Honestly, we thought we would have a hard time getting smiles from everyone, but boy, were we mistaken. The photoshoot was much easier than making those huge numbers. All we had to say was, “Have fun with it,” and the result was fantastic. There are more winners to see as you turn page after page, starting with a directory.

Seva May

We also spelled out for you the top Private Schools in our area. Get it? Spelled out? If you are a parent trying to decide about your child’s education, our guide will greatly help. I’ve also included a feature story on STEAM and what it stands for that will no doubt answer a few questions.

Hailey Lawson

We also have a last-minute shopping guide for the holidays in case some of you have waited until Christmas Eve to get your list checked off. Manology is back, along with a few new columns: Health and Wellness, Money Matters, and SB Influencers. You will also read some poetry and essays submitted by much younger writers in a new section we call Young Authors.

Logan May

Noble Feldman

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Seva May

ASSISTANT EDITOR

PHOTOGRAPHY Hailey Lawson

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dakota Morgan

We thank Deann Bazzell of Eden Gardens Elementary School for her help in getting this worthwhile project off the ground. She reached out to our schools for submissions and then sent them to us for consideration.

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

And just so you think we’ve put too much positive in our first bi-monthly issue, we’ve included a historical account of the Yellow Fever epidemic that hit Shreveport 150 years ago. Sad as those times were, it’s part of our history, and the story is well told by our friend at LSUS, Matt Vines.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

So, what are you waiting for? Turn the page and experience MORE in our first bimonthly publication. From all of us at SB Magazine, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year.

Kim Condon

Keyle Cavalier Stephanie Pringle

Teddy Allen Ursula Brantley Adam Bailey Hailey Lawson Elaine Pool Dakota Morgan Angela Costakis

Seva May

Matt Vines

Owner / Executive Editor

Denis Poljak

HOW TO REACH US 318.221.7264 • Fax 318.676.8850 850 Stoner Ave. Shreveport, LA 71101

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SAME TRUSTED TEAM. MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER. WE’RE CHANGING OUR NAME, BUT WE’RE NOT CHANGING WHO WE ARE.

L-R: LESLIE LARUSCH, KIRK R. THOMAS II, NATHAN L. SMITH, KIRK R. THOMAS, SYDNEY MONTGOMERY

While the name is new, you’ll still see the same familiar faces that have served our community for multiple generations. We’ll continue to evolve with you, offering full-service insurance that protects every part of your journey.

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COLUMNS:

6 12 14 26 27 87 88 90 94 96 98 102 105 106 126 128 132 134 140 148

Eye on SB Manology Money Matters Art & Culture LUXE Health & Wellness Crafts Student Section History Pets SB Influencers Young Authors Book Review How To SB Savor Teachers Lounge Non-Profit Profile Good to Know SB Events And Another Thing

FEATURES: 18 Home Feature 86 Yellow Fever 107 STEAM

SPECIAL SECTION:

29 Best of SB 2023 111 Back to School 146 Holiday Gift Guide

ON THE COVER: Left to Right Seated: Dr. Chris Barlow of University Veterinary Hospital and Terri Zacha Laster of Happily Ever After Left to Right Standing: Christopher Randel of the Cottage, Don O’byrne of Don Juanz, and Beau Cook of Beau Cook Landscaping

6 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

EYE ON SB

BY ANGELA COSTAKIS

Loyola Style Show Celebrating 70 years of fashion, music, and culture, the 2024 senior class of Loyola College Prep twisted, rocked, and Hip Hopped their way through the decades at the annual Style Show and Luncheon modeling clothes from local clothiers. 1. Jay and Clarissa Manno, Bernadette Boyd, Lynne Manno 2. Catherine Foret with Brian and Kristen Bernard 3. James Mayeaux, Max Mayeaux , Peyton Mayeaux, Ginger Nieman, Piper Glasgow 4. Holly and Simeon Wall with their son, Casey 1

Mad Scientists’ Bash The Mad Scientists’ Bash was held at Sci-Port Discovery Center on November 3. Contributions received through the Mad Scientists’ Bash will enable Sci-Port to begin a much-needed upgrade to there inventory of hands-on exhibits and experiences. All proceeds benefit Northwest Louisiana’s ONLY science learning center, which is celebrating its 25-year anniversary. 8 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Walk to End Alzheimer’s Friends, family and caregivers gathered at the Louisiana Boardwalk for Shreveport-Bossier’s annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Many teams of families and friends wore shirts honoring loved ones affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia. Participants carried vibrant orange, yellow, blue, and purple flowers indicating their relationship to the disease: Orange - living with Alzheimer’s; Yellow – caregiver; Blue- a loved one has the disease; and Purple – has lost a loved one to the disease. 1. Kim Hanson with granddaughters Teagan and Sidney 2. KSLA Anchor and Walk Emcee Biskie Duncan with Walk Manager Renee Mathews Calloway 3. Vicky Murray,Melody Washington, Patricia Bell, and Janet Swinney 4. Krewe of Centaur walkers – Kristina Morris, Kaylynn Henry Craig, Cindy Henry, Duke Jeremy Weese, Jack Collier, Duchess Destiny Collier with baby Charlotte, and King Kole Caston 5. Penny Cardino, Brittny Davis, Amy Krohn and Tanika Knight 1

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BREW Shreveport-Bossier’s annual take on Octoberfest featured over 100 premium beers, yummy food from area restaurants, live music and college football on big screen TVs. What a great way to spend a gorgeous fall Saturday! Brew is co-produced by Mudbug Madness and Red River Revel. 1

2 2

1. BREW CREW: Waynette Ballengee, Terri Matthews, Ed Walsh, Lisa Janes, and Jana Freeman 2. Revel Marketing Director Emerie Gentry and Revel Executive Director Logan Lewis 3. Jana Freeman and John Storey 4. Judge Karelia Stewart and Jerry Edwards 5. Larry & Sue Willis, John Manno, and Karen & Craig Eychaner

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Day of the Dead The Hispanic Heritage Association of North West Louisiana held its inaugural Day of the Dead Festival (also known as “Festival del Día de los Muertos”) at Shreveport’s Festival Plaza. Free to the public, attendees were treated to authentic costumes, alters, food, dancing and music. 1. Festival Organizers: Vita Riner and Maria Rodriguez 2. Maria Sermons, President of the Hispanic Heritage Association, with daughter Cecilia. 3. Melissa, Archer & Sutton Airheart 4. Gabriel Hernandez with Jose, Andrea & Aracely Guzman 5. Catherine & Aroura Brown 1

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Krewe of Justinian XXX Midway to Mardi Gras Party Krewe of Justinian XXX celebrated their Midway to Mardi Gras by combining this year’s “Once Upon a Time” theme with Halloween. “A Grimm Halloween” was held at Louisiana Daiquiri Café with krewe members dressed in costumes ranging from fairy tale characters to the grim reaper. 1. Justinian XXX Court: King Judge Donald Hathaway, Jr., Captain Amy Gardner Day, Queen Alison Byrd, Duchess Valerie DeLatte Gilmore, Duke Mike Marino, Duke Thomas Mayfield, Duchess Claire Hill, and Princess Codi Setters 2. Cousins Holland Miciotto and Charles Miciotto 3. Chris and Judge Emily Merckle 4. Captain Amy Gardner Day, Amy Bokenfohr, and Nancy Cooper 1

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3rd Annual TIFFANY STRONG Monster Mash “Monster Mash - A Time to Boogie” is the 3rd annual fundraiser for the Tiffany Strong Scholarship Foundation. Started by her mother Holly Freeman Lim along with close friends and family, TIFFANY STRONG honors Tiffany Pippenger, a beautiful, young wife and mother who tragically died at age 30 in 2017 from a sudden illness. This year’s event was held at Margaritaville and included a fabulous silent auction, live music by “The Caravan Band,” and a costume contest with truly fantastic costumes. This year’s event raised over $135,000 which funds scholarships for Bossier Parish students. 1. Tiffany Strong Board Members: Sherry King, Darlene Poole, Melinda Coyer, Amy Ray, Holly Lim, and Chuck Shackelford 2. Tina Rose, Diane Aillet, and Susan Shofner 3. Wanda Monroe and Erin Lemoine 4. Michael Henson 1

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8 s a m t s i r h C MANOLOGY

FO R

BY ADAM BAILEY

hopping for your significant others Christmas gift shouldn’t be treated like a chore to check off your to-do list. With just a bit of planning and consideration, you can impress the special woman in your life with a meaningful, memorable gift. So, this year when shopping for that special someone, get her something she’ll love. With that said, please avoid these Christmas giftgiving mistakes at all costs:

1. LOTIONS, BATH OILS, AND CANDLES. Lotions, bath oils, and candles are the classic cop-out gift. Nothing says it better than, “I couldn’t think of anything else to buy you.” Besides, chances are she already has a shelf full of these items she received from her girlfriends. If a woman really wants these items, she will get them for herself. Don’t give her another item that she’ll eventually re-gift. 2. CHEAP PERFUME. If you’re purchasing a fragrance for a woman in a drug store or discount retailer, please don’t bother. Cheap perfume is even worse than lotions and bath oils. There is really no use for it, and you can’t even properly re-gift cheap perfume. To avoid getting an unwanted gift for the special woman in your life, take her shopping and test out a few fragrances in the perfume department together. Then, when she opens her gift, she’ll be pleasantly

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surprised that you remembered the one(s) she liked best! 3. FAKE JEWELRY. Do not, under any circumstances, try to pass off cubic zirconia as diamonds or silver-plated jewelry as sterling silver. Like the old adage—if it looks too good to be true, then it probably isn’t real. Fake, cheap jewelry may turn her ears or fingers green. Cubic zirconia will lose its sparkle and luster over time and end up looking like small chunks of glass. If the special woman in your life wants fine jewelry, then she must also know that she’s worth it for you to make the appropriate investment. 4. KNOCK-OFF DESIGNER HANDBAGS. Trying to pass off designer-inspired handbags as the real deal is just as insulting. If you aren’t going to purchase the actual Coach or Burberry bag she wants, don’t waste your money or time on a knock-off. Women know what to look for and will inevitably spot a fake. Even worse, what if her friends tell her it’s fake before she discovers it for herself? 5. SMALL KITCHEN APPLIANCES. Like it or not, a mixer or a toaster oven often carries the implication that you’d like her to spend more time in the kitchen. Gifts like these send an unintended message that simply isn’t heartwarming. Even if it is the hottest, most amazing new appliance on the planet, a woman is likely not going to appreciate it as a gift. 6. CLEANING PRODUCTS OR SUPPLIES. Believe it or not, my father once gave my mother a vacuum for Christmas. What may be even more surprising is that they’re still married. Just as is the case

with kitchen appliances, anything that purportedly makes cleaning the house or doing laundry easier is not a proper giftgiving item. It’s the kind of thing that you bring home from the hardware store on a random day just because. Even then, you should tread lightly. 7. WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMS OR GYM MEMBERSHIPS. Like it or not, one of the worst gifts to give women is membership in a gym or weight loss program. This is the opposite of the message she wants to hear—that she is beautiful no matter her size or shape. She may drop hints all the time that she wants to lose weight or tone up, but, like many of the gifts on this list, this is something she will have to invest in herself, on her own time, when she is ready. The same can be said about home exercise equipment. Unless she has specifically asked for weights or a treadmill, don’t risk insulting her with these gifts. 8. GIFT CARDS. A gift card specifically shows exactly how much money you spent on the recipient. The potential for insulting a woman is high, as it sends the message that you simply could not come up with anything to purchase. It also shows a lack of interest or laziness on your part. If you want to give a gift that cannot be wrapped or must be purchased in the future though, why not create your own gift certificate? For example, a night at her favorite restaurant or a weekend getaway (just make sure that the gift is about her taste, and not yours). A gift certificate to a football game or a weekend fishing trip would likely be additional gifts not to give a woman.

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MONEY MATTERS

End-of-Year

Financial

Planning Review BY DENIS POLJAK

he end of the year is upon us once again, and during this time of year, it can be very beneficial to review your financial situation. With the approaching new year and tax season, it is a particularly good time to assess your financial goals, if you are still on the right track, and how you might be able to position yourself for next year better. Here are a few of the more common end-ofyear financial considerations. 16 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Review or create your financial plan: If you work with a financial planner or advisor, schedule an end-ofyear meeting to discuss your progress and adjust strategies if necessary. Look back on the past year’s expenses. Did you stay within budget? Identify areas where you overspent or saved. Also, consider any major life events that may have happened this year, such as births, deaths, marriage, divorce, career change, or retirement.

2. Evaluate Investment Portfolio: Rebalance your portfolio

if necessary. Review risk tolerances and asset allocations and make any changes that might be needed. Ensure your asset allocation still aligns with both your short- and long-term goals. 3. Year-end tax review: Review tax loss harvesting opportunities. If any investments you own have lost money on the year, tax loss harvesting can help reduce your overall tax liability. You may also consider charitable giving; the end of the year is a great time to make charitable

6. Set Financial Goals for the Upcoming Year: What do you hope to achieve financially in the next year? Set clear, measurable goals. 7. Review or create a Will: It is something few like to think about or deal with setting up, but it is a very important measure that should be taken. By creating a Will, you can ensure your assets will be distributed according to your wishes.

donations, which may also provide tax benefits. There are several strategies that can be used to assist with minimizing your tax liability, which you should consider reviewing with a financial professional if you have questions. 4. Retirement account planning: If you haven’t already, consider contributing the maximum amount allowed to your retirement accounts, such as a 401(k) or IRA. The 2023 maximum contribution for a 401(k) is $22,500 (plus an additional $7,500 for those 50 or older), and the 2023 maximum contribution for an IRA is $6,500 (plus an additional $1,000 for those 50 or older). If you are unable to max out your contributions, at least try to contribute what you can and continue to increase the amount you contribute each year incrementally. Making small increases each year to your contribution amount will help

to grow your retirement account in a manageable way without overdoing it. Don’t forget also to review your asset allocations in your retirement accounts; you’ll want to make sure you have the proper equity to fixed income ratio suitable for your goals; consult your financial advisor if needed. Additionally, make sure all your retirement accounts have up-to-date beneficiaries. 5. Review your insurance policies: Review any existing policies you already have (including health, life, auto, and homeowners’ or renters’ insurance), and make sure the coverage is adequate for your current needs. This may include older policies that are no longer relevant or policies that are not sufficient in providing the needed coverage for your lifestyle; either way, you’ll want to be aware of what you are paying for and what it covers. Also, you will want to make sure your beneficiaries are updated on your policies.

By taking a proactive approach to planning for your financial future, you can save yourself a lot of unneeded stress later. Remember, while this checklist serves as a guide, everyone’s financial situation is unique. This is a summary of some of the more common end-of-year financial considerations; however, it is not all-encompassing, and it is best to consult a financial professional directly for any additional information. It is crucial to tailor your end-of-year financial activities to suit your personal and financial circumstances best. Denis Poljak is a Managing Director and a Wealth Manager with the Poljak Group Wealth Management at Steward Partners in Shreveport, Louisiana. The information contained in this article is not a solicitation to purchase or sell investments. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. Investing involves risks, and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of Steward Partners or its affiliates. Information contained herein has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee their accuracy or completeness. Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC, Member SIPC SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Celebrating theSeason… AND SERVING YOU!

PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT

Jason Adams, M.B.A.

Denis Poljak, Ph.D., CPM®, CIMA®, CFP®

Ryan Yarbrough

Joseph Fell, M.B.A.

Partner Vice President Client Relationship Manager

Partner Managing Director Wealth Manager

Partner Vice President Wealth & Portfolio Specialist

John Simpson

Davor Poljak, M.B.A., CPM®

Partner Vice President Registered Client Administrative Manager

Partner Vice President Wealth & Portfolio Specialist

Partner Managing Director Wealth Manager

Scott Salvail Partner Vice President Wealth & Portfolio Specialist

333 TEXAS ST., SUITE 2230, SHREVEPORT, LA 71101

W E A LT H M A N AG E M E N T At Steward Partners

318-674-4100

| SBMAG.NET 18 DEC/JAN Joseph23/24 Fell, MBA, Wealth & Portfolio Specialist — 7 years • Scott Salvail, Wealth & Portfolio Specialist — 10 years • John Simpson, Wealth & Portfolio Specialist — 7 years Ryan Yarbrough, Registered Client Administrative Manager — 7 years

VOTE NOW TOP ATTORNEYS

DEADLINE: December 11, 2023 Peer Nomination and People’s Choice Categories Look for the results in the February/March Issue

VOTE ONLINE SBMAG.NET

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SB HOME

BY ADAM BAILEY

Preservation MIDCENTURY MODERN

20 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

A PERFECTLY PRESERVED MIDCENTURY MODERN HOME IN SOUTH HIGHLAND. A stunning midcentury masterpiece that will captivate those who appreciate homes of this architectural significance— this modernized, three-bedroom home respects the past while modifying for the present and future.

idcentury modern is a term that’s thrown around a lot these days. But what is it really? Midcentury modern architecture is not simply anything that was designed and built in the middle of the 20th century, but, in fact, an architectural style with a defined set of principles and influences. To this day, the style continues to influence contemporary architecture in ways both big and small. In the mid-1950s, local real estate developer Henry “Hank” Bronner began constructing a home in ShreveSBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

port’s South Highlands neighborhood. This new home was to be designed in the midcentury vernacular of the time, inspired by the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright, Richard Neutra, and Charles Eames. The house was for Bronner’s first wife, Louise, and their daughters. It would be a true testament to the midcentury style with sustainable and innovative design, clean lines, minimal ornamentation, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an emphasis on nature. Sixty-four years later, Mrs. “Cissie” Bonner— Hank Bronner’s second wife—decided to put the home up for sale. For Robert May, owner of Watertight Roofing and Construction, the midcentury style seems to be a product of specific design elements. “I think it’s really the materials, the open flowing spaces, and the real sunny feel to them that draws people to the architectural style to this day.” Upon learning that the Bronner home was for sale, his curiosity peaked. Initially, May just wanted a tour of the home before it sold. And, since he wasn’t officially in the market for a new home, he figured there wouldn’t be any harm in looking, right? May simply walked up to the front door, rang the doorbell, and introduced himself to Ms. Bronner. Upon passing through the front door, May was amazed that most of the original elements of the home were still intact. He was immediately drawn to the floor-to-ceiling windows, the open floor plan, the built-in storage, the functionality, and the intentional connection to its natural surroundings. “Oh, yeah,” added May, referring to the manicured landscaping. “Seeing the backyard was

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a huge plus. Combine that with all the interior features; this was the house for me.” So, he bought it. After purchasing the home, May knew from the start that any renovation would mean maintaining a careful balance between preservation and updates as he made decisions on what and how to move forward. Many details, as he would discover in the ensuing months, were hidden, disassembled, or reused elsewhere in the home. “Being in the construction business I knew where the line was and walked it successfully,” May says. “I wanted to approach everything I did very carefully.” And carefully, he did. Aside from a few minor cosmetic changes, which mainly consisted of painting and electrical upgrades, May stayed true to the midcentury style. Today, the 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home features the same footprint as when it was originally built—featuring the original open floorplan with large, custom floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the space with natural light. These windows allow a ton of light to seep into the home—providing wonderful, breathtaking views of the beautifully landscaped backyard, patio, and saltwater pool area. The living area is anchored by an offset ledge stone fireplace set against a paneled wall and built-in bookshelves, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. A corner pole light provides some whimsy, as the room is decorated in era-appropriate accent pieces and furniture. May handpicked many of the items that make up the home which gives it an awesome retro vibe. To say he is an avid George Rodrigue fan is an understatement. His works are seen in abundance throughout the home. “I must have more Rodrigue’s than anyone

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in Shreveport,” admits May. Appliances, countertops, and flooring were all carefully added to help “modernize” the home which, luckily, do not diminish the midcentury appeal. One of the things that hasn’t been updated is the original lighting that illuminates the home when natural light isn’t available. Ranging in size, the three bedrooms all have ample closet space and generously sized windows. The master bedroom has a private patio right off the sitting area, with a unique master bath with his and her spaces. It’s like having two bathrooms in one! Likewise, there are closets everywhere. In the foyer, living room, and hallways. Walk-in closets are abundant. “I bet the whole house has over 600-squre-feet of closet space,” May admits. The landscaping in the backyard is architecturally appealing and practical. According to May, he sees the exterior patio and yard as an extension of the living room, which looks out onto the patio. And just like the interior, the design has a good flow. The main design elements for the backyard are the saltwater pool, patio with fireplace, and multiple seating areas connecting through lavish, well-kept landscaping. “The pool is 10-feet-deep,” says May. “And, because of the depth, the water stays cool all summer long.” For May, this midcentury architectural home remains timeless. And even though it has been decades since the home was originally built, he believes it is now a perfect blend of past and present, with room to grow in the future. “Surprisingly, the house had been really well maintained for the past sixty-four years,” May says. “It is certainly my forever home—with both old memories and new ones.”

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SB ART & CULTURE

Best ways to

Express Your

CREATIVITY

BY KIM CONDON

hreveport-Bossier City is a vibrant creative hub buzzing with artistic energy and Southern warmth, and by the work of passionate community leaders, I can feel it reaching out in encouragement for the community to take a dive into creative expression. I’m convinced that within our midst, there are countless individuals eager to showcase their unique expressions, contributing to the ever-evolving artistic landscape of our beloved city. Here are the five best ways to take the plunge and share your artistic talent in Shreveport-Bossier City: 26 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Karaoke/Open Mic Nights: Put yourself out there from behind the mic and release all that stage fright with a karaoke or open mic night. Venues like Strange Brew and Bears on Fairfield play host to these events, creating a welcoming atmosphere where you can share your musical or spoken-word talents with an appreciative audience. For me, I like my karaoke with a little two-step, so I head over to Big Country, Bossier City

in the SBC

Performing Arts Theatre: Step onto the stage and explore the world of acting, dance, and behind-thescenes magic at theaters like Shreveport Little Theatre, Emmett Hook Center, Stage Center, East Bank Theatre, or BPCC Theatre. Our city’s thriving performing arts scene offers a stage for everyone, from seasoned performers to those taking their first steps in the spotlight. Additionally, if you’re looking to venture into the realm of experimental and avant-garde theater, Shreveport-Bossier City is home to troupes like Lumpy Grits and collaborative experiences with Company Rep Theatre.

Artist Calls

Makers Fairs:

Keep an eye out for local artist calls and exhibitions organized by the Shreveport Regional Arts Council and The Bossier Arts Council. Events like Critical MASS or themed shows provide opportunities for visual artists to display their work, connecting them with our dynamic arts community. They aren’t the only ones; for example, The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation has an artist call out now celebrating the Whooping Crane, with a deadline of January 6, 2024. The calls come quickly, so sign up for the email lists to get the first alerts. You might also want to join the ShreveportBossier Artist Calls Facebook group for a variety of artist calls.

Showcase your handmade jewelry, woodworking projects, or any unique creations, and connect with fellow makers in our community. When figuring out how to price your creations for a Makers Fair, think about what you spent on materials, your time, and any other costs like rent or tools. Check out what similar stuff is going for, and keep in mind who’s shopping— try to find that sweet spot where your prices are fair, and people still see the value in what you make. Think you can jump right in? Sign up through the BAC for the Mardi Gras Makers Faire in The East Bank District on Jan. 26th. SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Prize Fest Competitions: Elevate your creativity by participating in the annual Prize Fest, a celebration of innovation in film, music, food, and fashion. Whether you’re a filmmaker, musician, chef, or fashion designer, the allure of significant cash rewards adds an extra layer of excitement to this vibrant festival, motivating participants to showcase their best work and compete at the highest level. The generous cash prizes

serve as a testament to the festival’s commitment to supporting and honoring outstanding talent across diverse creative disciplines, making Prize Fest an unmissable opportunity for aspiring and established artists alike. Whether through music, theater, visual arts, or friendly competition, our community welcomes your individual perspective. So, embrace your creative spirit, share your talents, and become an integral part of the artistic heartbeat that defines the lifestyle of Shreveport-Bossier City.

Wishing you a bundle of joy this Christmas! (318) 408-0100 9391 Ellerbe Rd, Ste C Shreveport, LA

1900 N 18th St, Ste 209 Monroe, LA

positivestepsfertility.com

28 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

L U X E

EXPERIENCE

Unrivaled Experience

An ® goes beyond the intuitive, personalized service of our world-class team and having every luxurious amenity at your beck and call. It goes beyond culinary experiences delivering epicurean perfection at sea and on land. It goes beyond immersive shore excursions, thousands of which are included across 500-plus ports of call around the world. It goes beyond each of these by including all of them and more, creating opportunities to live life to the fullest every day.

• • • • • • • • • •

2 Round-trip Business Class intercontinental airfare 2 Round-trip Domestic Airport and Cruiseport Transfers Butler Service Laundry Valet Unlimited Cocktails Specialty Dining Unlimited Excursions Land Programs Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

L U X E

BYRON MAY

byronmayart.com 30 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Your votes are in and counted! The 2023 Best Of SB is our BEST TO DATE. Save this issue and use it as a personal directory for where to shop, who to call, where to eat and where to play and tell them you read about them in SB! CONGRATULATIONS to all who made this year’s list! SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

CONGRATULATIONS to all who made this year’s list! The winner of each category is listed in red, and runners up are listed in black. AUTOMOTIVE AUTO BODY SHOP LINE AVENUE COLLISION JACK’S AUTO BODY MARKETPLACE CHEVROLET YOKEM TOYOTA

AUTO DEALER - NEW MARKETPLACE CHEVY ORR HOLMES HONDA YOKUM TOYOTA

OIL CHANGE MARKETPLACE CHEVY VALVOLINE YOKEM TOYOTA

TIRES MARKETPLACE CHEVROLET TIRE CREW DESPINO TIRES

BEAUTY COSMETIC ENHANCEMENTS

MARKETPLACE CHEVY ORR AUTO GROUP YOKEM TOYOTA

PENNINGTON FACIAL PLASTICS DR. KENNETH SANDERS FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY ARKLATEX DERMATOLOGY

AUTO REPAIR

MEN’S HAIR/BARBER

AUTO DEALERPREOWNED

MARKETPLACE CHEVY BENTON ROAD AUTO REPAIR ASHLEY AUTOMOTIVE SOUTHERN AUTOMOVIE

JOSEPH GUINN SPORTS CLIPS CHEMISTRY HAIR AVALON SALON

AUTO GLASS

CASHMERE HAIR SALON HAILEY KILPATRICK CHEMISTRY HAIR SALON AVALON HAIR SALON

GLASS SERVICES NOVUS GLASS LOUSIANA GLASS

AUTO REPAIR & MECHANIC SHOP MARKETPLACE CHEVY BROADMOOR GARAGE YOKEM TOYOTA

SALON-HAIR

SALON-MAKEUP HAILEY KILPATRICK SPA CONCEPTS AVALON HAIR SALON BROTHERS

CAR WASH/DETAILING

SALON-NAILS

FIREHOUSE DETAILING EXPRESS CARWASH MARKETPLACE CHEVY ROADRUNNER CAR WASH

SPA CONCEPTS JADED HAPPY NAILS

32 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

SALON-TANNING

ATTITUDES WITH STYLE ARK LA TEX DERMATOLOGY LE BRONZE ROYAL SALON AND SPA SPA CONCEPTS

SPA-DAY

SPA CONCEPTS MY SPA MY WAY 8445 MED SPA BODY THERAPY BY ROBIN JADE

SPA-MEDICAL

8445 MED SPA PENNINGTON FACIAL PLASTICS FIXX MEDICAL SPA ARK LA TEX DERMATOLOGY

ENTERTAINMENT BAR

BEARS FROZEN PIROGUE 2JOHNS END ZONE SPORTS BAR WALK ONS

BAR-SPORTS

WALK ON’S SPORTSBOOK RESTAURANT MARGARITAVILLE END ZONE SPORTS BAR FROZEN PIROGUE

BED & BREAKFAST

FAIRFIELD BED & BREAKFAST 2439 BED & BREAKFAST LOCUST HILL

BREWERY

GREAT RAFT BREWING FLYING HEART BREWERY 7TH TAP

CASINO

MARGARITAVILLE RESORT AND CASINO HORSESHOE BOOMTOWN CASINO & HOTEL

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

ISHUTTLE SHREVEPORT LIMOUSINE A-1

LOCAL BAND

IDENTITY CRISIS MOJO MUSIC CHARLOTTE’S WEB BAND HOLLOWDECKS

LOCAL FESTIVAL

MUDBUG MADNESS HIGHLAND JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL CORK RED RIVER REVEL

MUSEUM

NORTON LA STATE MUSEUM ART SPACE MEADOWS

TOURIST ATTRACTION

SHREVEPORT AQUARIUM SCI-PORT SBC BREAKROOM

ART GALLERY

NORTON ART GALLERY MEADOWS ARTSPACE THE CLAYGROUND

VENUE-CONCERTS MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM BROOKSHIRE GROCERY ARENA HURRICANE ALLEY

VENUE-PERFORMING ARTS THE STRAND THEATRE SHREVEPORT LITTLE THEATRE EMMETT HOOK

LOCAL COMMUNITY THEATRE SHREVEPORT LITTLE THEATER ROBINSON FILM CENTER BPCC CENTENARY PERFORMANCE THEATER EMMETT HOOK

LOCAL THEATRE ACTRESS MIA KIIHNL LISA ANN KEMPER ANNA MARIA SPARKE

EDUCATION DRIVING SCHOOL BEE SAFE DRIVING SCHOOL FIRST CLASS DRIVING SCHOOL ADVANTAGE DRIVING SCHOOL BASS DRIVING SCHOOL

BAKERY

LOWDER’S JULIE ANNE’S BAKERY WHISK DESSERT BAR

BARBECUE

HICKORY STICK SILVER STAR SMOKEHOUSE BODACIOUS BARBECUE

BEER SELECTION

7TH TAP FLYING HEART BREWERY GREAT RAFT BREWING

BLOODY MARY

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG MARILYN’S PLACE KI MEXICO

COFFEEHOUSE

RHINO COFFEE COFFEE ON THE RED CCS

CRAWFISH

RUBBA BOOT CRAWFISH COMPANY CHUCK WAGON BOIL CO. LARRY P’S BOILING POT SHAVER’S CRAWFISH AND CATERING

DAQUIRI

DAIQUIRI EXPRESS STATION 80 STERLING SPIRITS

DATE NIGHT

BREAKFAST

FAT CALF BRASSERIE 2 JOHNS CYPRESS BY THE REVENIR

BRUNCH

WHISK DESSERT BAR 2 JOHNS CYPRESS BY THE REVENIR

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG FIRST WATCH STRAWNS

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG UP FOR BRUNCH MARILYNN’S PLACE

BURGER

DESSERT

DONUTS

SOUTHERN MAID DONUTS DRIPP DONUTS LICKIN GOOD

LOCAL COLLEGE

PAPA AND COMPANY GULLOS HOPPDODDY ROLLING IN THE DOUGH

CENTENARY COLLEGE LSUS BPCC

BUTCHER/MEAT MARKET

FAT CALF BRASSERIE 2 JOHNS SUPERIOR STEAKHOUSE

CAJUN/CREOLE

FAT CALF BRASSERIE 2 JOHNS SUPERIOR STEAKHOUSE

LOCAL PRIVATE SCHOOL ST JOHN BURCHMAN LOYOLA COLLEGE PREP FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH SCHOOL SOUTHFIELD SCHOOL

FOOD APPETIZERS FAT CALF BRASSERIE CYPRESS BY THE REVENIR GIBBONS WALK ONS

MAXWELL’S BERGERON’S CUSH’S

BEAUX JAX CRAWDADDYS BERGERONS SHANES LOOSIANA SEAFOOD

CATERER

FAT CALF BRASSERIE CANE’S CYPRESS BY THE REVENIR ON THE GEAUX CATERING SAVOIE’S

FINE DINING

FOOD TRUCK

ONO’S HAWAIIAN GRILL CAJUN ASIAN MASSHOLE LOBSTER TRUCK

GREEK

YEERO YEERO ATHENA PITA DE NOVA TAZIKIS

HAPPY HOUR FAT CALF BRASSERIE CYPRESS BY THE REVENIR 2JOHNS SUPERIOR STEAKHOUSE

ICE CREAM/FROZEN DESSERT BASKIN ROBBINS HAPPY BELLY MARBLE SLAB SWEETPORT

INDIAN INDIA’S INDIGO ZUZAL

ITALIAN GUISEPPE’S PASTACAFFE MONJUNI’S CHIANTI LITALIANO

ASIAN IMPERIAL CATHAY LUCKY PALACE PHAMS CHENG’S

JUICE BAR MAIN SQUEEZE WELL FED GLOW ALCHEMY

KID FRIENDLY RESTAURANT CANES KI MEXICO STRAWNS WALK ONS FLYING HEART BREWERY

LOCALLY OWNED RESTAURANT BISCOTTIS BISTRO FAT CALF BRASSERIE KI MEXICO ZUZUL’S

MARGARITA DON JUANZ SUPERIOR BAR & GRILL EL CABO VERDE PEPITO’S XO SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

MARTINI

SOUL FOOD

2 JOHNS SUPERIOR’S STEAKHOUSE CYPRESS BY THE REVENIR ZUZUL

TAYLOR’S ORLANDEAUX PHO LAMOUR

MEAL PREP SERVICE PREPPED UP MEALS NO REGRETS MEAL PREP GLOW ALCHEMY KITCHEN

MEXICAN KI MEXICO DON JUANZ EL CABO VERDE SUPERIOR BAR & GRILL

NEW RESTAURANT CYPRESS BY THE REVENIR THE PEARL DRAGOS

NUTRITION SHAKES & SPECIALTY TEAS SMOOTHIE KING FRIENDS NUTRITION LEGACY NUTRITION SOUTHERN LOOP NUTRITION UPPERLEVEL NUTRITION

OUTDOOR PATIO FAT CALF BRASSERIE KI MEXICO SUPERIOR STEAKHOUSE ZUZUL FROZEN PIROGUE

PIZZA JOHNNY’S FRANK’S FLYING HEART BREWERY

PO-BOY

STEAKHOUSE SUPERIOR STEAKHOUSE 2 JOHN’S STEAK & SEAFOOD JIMMY’S (MARGARITAVILLE)

STREET TACOS DON JUANZ KI MEXICO LA TAQUERIA MICHOACANA EL CABO VERDE

SUSHI SUSHI BISTRO SUSHIKIN SUSHIKO

VEGETARIAN/VEGAN WELL+FED LOUISIANA GLOW ALCHEMY CYPRESS BY THE REVENIR

HEALTH & WELLNESS ACUPUNCTURE EMILY KEATY ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE SHREVEPORT DESOTO PHYSICAL THERAPY EDGE PHYSICAL THERAPY

CBD STORE

PO-BOY EXPRESS MARILYN’S PLACE FAT TUESDAY

TECH PROS 318 HAPPY HIPPIE HOPE PHARMACY KING VAPES

SALAD

CHIROPRACTOR

JASON’S DELI WALK ONS GIBBONS CYPRESS BY THE REVENIR SILVERSTAR STEAK SALAD

34 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

BATES CHIROPRACTOR MAYFIELD CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC DIAMOND CHIROPRACTIC DESIGNED TO MOVE

CROSSFIT

SHREVEPORT CROSS FIT NO CEILING’S CROSS FIT AUSTIN SULLIVAN

FITNESS FACILITY/GYM

FIT NATION SOUTHERN TRACE COUNTRY CLUB CLUB 4 FITNESS CAMP GLADIATOR

MASSAGE

SPA CONCEPTS AMY HUGHES BRAD HOLSAPPLE

PERSONAL TRAINER

DAVID NGUYIN LARRY NEGARD CHASE DUGGINS DAN PROLIFIC

PHARMACY

BOUDREAUX’S COMPOUNDING PHARMACY AIRLINE DRUG DRUG EMPORIUM MEDIC PHARMACY

PHYSICAL THERAPY

FULTZ PHYSICAL THERAPY & JOINT REHAB CHRISTUS PHYSICAL THERAPY DESOTO PHYSICAL THERAPY EDGE PHYSICAL THERAPY

PLASTIC SURGEON

LINDSEY PENNINGTON, MD BARON O’NEAL DR. KENNETH SANDERS FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY WALL CENTER

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT CENTER

SLIM MEDICAL CLINIC SHED IT! WEIGHT KNOW MORE

YOGA STUDIO

BLOOM YOGA STUDIO ASPIRE YOGA HUMM

HEALTH CARE DERMATOLOGIST

DR. SARAH BAKER- WK BOSSIER DR. SARAH GLORIOSO WK DR. SKYLAR SOUYOUL PENNINGTON

CARDIOLOGIST

DR. JONATHON DAVIS WK DR. JIMMY SMITH CHRISTUS DR. ROBERT (BOB) MARTIN - WK

ONCOLOGIST

DR. ANIL VELAVALU - WK DR. KEVIN GALLAGHER WK DR. ROBERT MASSINGILL CHRISTUS

OPHTHALMOLOGIST

DR JOHN CARMODY SHREVEPORT EYE CLINIC DR. MARY CATHERINE CLEMONS - SHREVEPORT EYE CLINIC DR. WYCHE T. COLEMAN, III - WK

PEDIATRICIAN

DR. ANGELA CUSH-JOHN - MID CITY DR. MACK - PIERREMONT PEDIATRICS DR. SCOTT RITCH - MID CITY DR. VIRGINA CARTER / PEDIATRIC HEALTH AND WELLNESS

INTERNAL MEDICINE

DR. JENNIFER KELLEY - WK DR. RICHARD MICHEAL SURE ACCESS DR. RUSSELL TYNES CHRISTUS

FAMILY MEDICINE

DR. ELIZABETH HUDNALL CHRISTUS DR. CLINT WILSON - WK DR. JODE BURGIN - FAMILY DOCTORS

UROLOGIST DR. ALEX GOMELSKY - WK DR. ASHLEY BAKER REGIONAL UROLOGY DR. TOM SISKRON - WK DR. GERARD HENRY - WK DR. JAMES NOBLE REGIONAL UROLOGY DR. CHRISTOPHER WILSON - WK/ARKLATEXU

GASTROENTEROLOGIST DR. DAVID DIES - CHRISTUS DR. HUMBERTO AGUILAR - GIS DR. JAMES MORRIS OCHSNER

GENERAL PRACTITIONER DR. ELLIE HUDNALL OCHSNER DR. ROBERT SAUCIER BOSSIER FAMILY MEDICINE DR. CLINT WILSON- WK DR. KRISTEN BASS - WK DR. ANGELO - CHRISTUS

PSYCHIATRIST DR. JASJIT SINGH WOMEN’S CHILDRENS DR. TONY JYOTI DR. ARIEN WARD - WK DR. GEORGE WOLCOTT DR. JANICE HOLLOWAY DR. JONATHAN WIGGINS BRENTWOOD

ORTHOPEDIST DR. JOHN MAYS - BOSSIER ORTHOPEDICS DR. SHANE BARTON DR. DAVID GOOGE - ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALISTS DR. CARLTON HOUTZ HIGHLAND DR. CRAIG SPRINGMEYER - HIGHLAND DR. ATCHISON, M.D. SPECIALISTS HOSPITAL

RHEUMATOLOGIST

DR. AARON BROADWELL JR. - ROS DR. KATIE WALTON - ROS DR. KYLA LOKITZ LA ARTHRITIS AND

RHEUMATOLOGY DR. LARRY BROADWELL - ROS DR. TOM PRESSLY - WK DR. KIRT KAMPERT CHRISTUS

NEUROLOGIST

DR. MEGHAN HARRIS, MD (WK PIERREMONT NEUROLOGY CLINIC) DR. AMRUTKAR - WK DR. NOTORIANNI OCHSNER DR. MALIK - WK

HOME SERVICES APPLIANCES

THE COTTAGE BYRD APPLIANCES COBURNS

ARCHITECT

FARMER PAYNE CHRIS ELBERSON PREVOT DESIGN SERVICES

ELECTRICAL

HAYNIE ELECTRIC WILHITE ELECTRIC HMR ELECTRIC K&B

FLOORING

THE COTTAGE HENSONS STEPHENSON FLOORS ANDREWS FLOORING

FURNITURE JOHNSON’S FURNITURE HAVERTY’S IVAN SMITH ASHLEYS BEWLEYS

GARDEN/NURSERY GARRISONS HOME AND GARDEN SHOWPLACE AKINS NURSERY LEX PLANT FARM AND GARDEN CENTER

HANDYMAN

LIGHTING

JOEY ROHRER KNIGHT CONSTRUCTION CHRIS EBARB JERRY SPARKMAN

HOUSE OF LIGHTS & CARPET HENSON’S CARPET ONE RIVER CITIES FLOORS

HEATING & AIR PIONEER COMFORT SYSTEMS ACCUTEMP COOLING & HEATING ICE COLD MOORES HEATING AND AIR

HOME BUILDER TERRY ELSTON BUILDERS SOUTHERN HOME BUILDERS, INC. WESLEY THOMAS MARTIN SIGNATURE HOMES

MORTGAGE COMPANY FAIRWAY LITTON MORTGAGE MOVEMENT MORTGAGE BARKSDALE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

MOVING COMPANY LION HEART MOVING JOHNSON’S MOVING COMPANY CHRISTFIT STRONG MAN MOVERS

PATIO FURNISHING CORNER COLLECTION SPLASH POOLS

HOME DECOR

PEST CONTROL

CANATELLA INTERIORS BIRDWELL’S ROSEWOOD

ANTI PEST J&J EXTERMINATING KILLER FOR HIRE

HOME SECURITY GUARDIAN ALARM ADT SHREVEPORT SECURITY SYSTEMS VIVINT ARLO CYPRESS MULTIMEDIA SIMPLISAFE VECTOR

INTERIOR DESIGN KORI SHURLEY CANATELLA INTERIORS THE COTTAGE GAUTREAU INTERIORS IVY & STONE JANET MEIER DESIGNS KADY BETH DESIGN

LAWN & LANDSCAPE VOSBURY LAWNCARE BEAU COOK LAWN & LANDSCAPE THE WEED MAN

PLUMBING RINCHUSOS MAGNOLIA PIONEER OSWALT BOBBY L. GREENE

POOL COMPANY MOOREHEAD POOLS WATERSCAPES OASIS

ROOFING HARGROVE ROOFING CENTERLINE COMSTRUCTION PRIORITY ROOFING RESTORATION ROOFING

HOME IMPROVEMENT THE COTTAGE TERRY ELSTON LA HOME CENTER TRINITY RESURFACING

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

LOCAL CELEBRITIES CHEF ANTHONY FELAN ELEAZAR MONDRAGON GABRIEL BALDERAS

DJ/KARAOKE NICK HUSTON DJ SERVICES KRYSTAL DIAZ CODY KAUFFMAN SKILLZPLUS ENTERTAINMENT

BEST DRESSED MAN COREY PARADISE DEREK JAMES ALVIN SCOTT

NEWS ANCHOR RICK ROWE DOMINIQUE BENN BILL LUNN

PUBLIC OFFICIAL JILL SESSIONS STEVE PRATOR THOMAS PRESSLY TOM ARCENEAUX

RADIO PERSONALITY DEREK JAMES OF 101.1 KRMD JAY WHATLEY KRISTAL MONTEZ K945

LIVING APARTMENT COMPLEX THE WILLOWS AT COATES BLUFF THE BOULDERS ON FERN VILLAGGIO

PRIVATE CLUB SOUTHERN TRACE COUNTRY CLUB EAST RIDGE COUNTRY CLUB SHREVEPORT YACHT CLUB

36 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

SENIOR LIVING FACILITY

GARDEN PARK THE OAKS THE GLEN THE BLAKE

PETS BOARDING

UNIVERSITY VET HOSPITAL K9 NATION THREE HAPPY TAILS FUR-GET-ME-KNOTS DOG GROOMING LLC PROVENANCE VETERINARY

DOGGIE DAYCARE

UNIVERSITY VETERINARY HOSPITAL RED ROVER THE K9 NATION LA THREE HAPPY TAILS

GROOMING

FUR-GET-ME-KNOTS DOG GROOMING LLC SHE-SHEDS GROOMING THREE HAPPY TAILS FERNANDOS POOCH PARLOR PAWTASTIC PINK POODLE

PET STORE

HOLLYWOOD FEED PET ZONE

TRAINER

THE K9 NATION LA ALL DOGS UNLEASHED CIRCLE J

VETERINARIAN

UNIVERSITY VETERINARY HOSPITAL NORTH AIRLINE ANIMAL HOSPITAL SOUTHSIDE ANIMAL HOSPITAL BOSSIER ANIMAL HOSPITAL BROADMOOR ANIMAL HOSPITAL NORTH LOUISIANA ANIMAL HOSPITAL

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ATTORNEY - DUI

TAYLOR PARKER, DURRETT LAW AND TITLE RON MICIOTTO DAVID HARVILLE JR SCOTT CHAFIN

BOOKKEEPING

CFO PROSOLUTIONS ANNA GLEASON HEARD MCELROY AND VESTAL WARREN AND BELL

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

DENIS POLJAK WIL ADAMS DEAUTON DELGADO

FLORIST

BRIANNA BELTON DESIGN COLONY HOUSE LABLOOM LISA’S FLOWERS

FUNERAL HOME

ROSE-NEATH OSBORN CENTURIES

INSURANCE AGENCY

BANK

ROBBY LATHAM STATE FARM ANDREW ROBINSON STATE FARM SARAH KIRK STATE FARM

CAR WASH

POLJAK GROUP AT STEWARD PARTNERS EDWARD JONES JEFF LYONS- RAYMOND JAMES

CLEANING SERVICE

ART BY SARAHKATHERINE SEMON SAMMY HALPHEN JOE PARADISE- REFRIED DREAMZ LAUREN ROSS SIMMONS

CPA

LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER

HOME FEDERAL BANK RED RIVER BANK COMMUNITY BANK OF LOUISIANA ORIGIN BANK PERFORMANCE CAR WASH & LUBE ROADRUNNER TWIN CITIES XPRESS CAR WASH CINDER’ELLA IN DISGUSE JOLLEY CLEANING SERVICES MARTINEZ CLEANING NEED A HELPING HAND HEARD MCELROY AND VESTAL MARK ELDREDGE MATTHEWS, BEATY AND CO CPAS PHILLIP HALEY WHITELAW, RICE & ASSOCIATES, CPAS, LLC

CREDIT UNION

BARKSDALE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION CARTER FEDERAL CREDIT UNION ANECA FCU BOSSIER FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

DRY CLEANING

PORTERS AZALEA CLEANERS ANY GARMENT BOSSIER

INVESTMENT FIRM

LOCAL ARTIST

LESLIE WHITAKER CARLY BUTTS PHOTOGRAPHY IVY B PHOTOGRAPHY

TRAVEL AGENT

CRISSY PARIKH LEIGH FLOOD ASHLEIGH RICHARDSON DREAM VACATIONS BY CRISSY PARIKH

RELIGION PLACE OF WORSHIP

SIMPLE CHURCH WORD OF GOD MINISTRIES BROADMOOR BAPTIST CHURCH ST. JUDE CATHOLIC CHURCH

RETAIL ANTIQUES

KINGS ANTIQUES TIMELINE ANTIQUES ANTIQUE EMPORIUM ANTIQUE SHOPPES AT 1100 BARKSDAKE CABOOSE

BIKE SHOP

BIKES ETC ADVENTURE PROVISION, FORMERLY RIVER CITY

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

HAPPILY EVER AFTER BRIDAL FABULOUS FROCKS AZARUES

CHILDRENS CLOTHING

LA BAMBOLINA MOPPET SHOPPE BECK DESIGNS

CHILDRENS TOYS

LEARNING EXPRESS GIVE ME 3 LEWIS GIFTS

JEWELER

DANCE STUDIO

FLORIST BRIANNA BELTON DESIGN

LADIES BOUTIQUE

CANDACE DANCE COMPANY POWER AND GRACE RENEE’S DANCE SHREVEPORT DANCE ACADEMY

MCCARY’S LEE MICHAELS CLARKES JEWELERS LOCKHART

LOA CLOTHING BOUTIQUE GILDED OYSTER SIMPLY CHIC BOUTIQUE BOSSIER

LIQUOR STORE

THRIFTY LIQUOR CUBAN LIQUOR TONY’S STERLING SPIRITS

LOCAL MARKET/ PRODUCE

MAXWELLS MARKET BOSSIER CITY FARMERS MARKET CRAWFORD FARMS SHREVEPORT FARMERS MARKET

LOCAL PRODUCT

UNIQULEY YOURS HOME AGAIN UPTOWN CHEAPSKATE

THE GILDED OYSTER SANDY & RIZZO SANDY & RIZZO BOSSIER CITY FARMERS MARKET CLEAN SLATE BOTANICALS

FORMAL DRESS

MEN’S CLOTHIERS

CONSIGNMENT

AZARUES SLOAN’S FORMALS & BOUTIQUE CHATEAU EN MAE LBD BY DESIGN MONICA’S YELLOW RIBBON

GIFT SHOP

LEWIS GIFTS HOLY ANGELS JOLIE BLONDE GIFTS GIVE ME 3 APPLI K’S

HARDWARE STORE

TUBBS HARDWARE ACE HARDWARE JAYROES HARDWARE STORE PAUL’S FARM & GARDEN

JOHN PICKENS LE CHALK OXFORD STREET

SPORTING GOODS STORE SPORTSPECTRUM LULULEMON

TATTOO/PIERCING CASEY EBEY - INKD UP TATTOO RESCUE GHOSTFIRE TATTOO AND PIERCING 13 DAGGERS LEGACY INK

SPORTS AND RECREATION

GOLF COURSE SOUTHERN TRACE COUNTRY CLUB ERCC QUERBES

GYMNASTICS

COLONY HOUSE FLOWER POWER LABLOOM SIBLING STEMS LISA’S FLOWERS AND GIFTS

PHOTOGRAPHER CARLY BUTTS PHOTOGRAPHY NICOLE MARQUEZ

JILLS GYMNASTICS ACROSPORTS AERIAL EXPRESSIONS BOSSIER OLYMPIAD LOUISIANA CHEERNASTICS

PHOTOGRAPHY

MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL

EVENTS

BENTON MARTIAL ARTS PAKS KARATE SMAA

BRIANNA BELTON

SHOOTING RANGE RED RIVER RANGE DAV TEC LONG RANGE ALLY

TENNIS FACILITY

IVY B PHOTOGRAPHY

RENTALS/TENTS/ FURNITURE PELICAN TENTS AND LILAC LANE RENTALS MAJESTIC TENTS

REGISTRY LEWIS GIFTS BIRDWELL’S CHATEAU EN MAE

SOUTHERN TRACE POTC QUERBES TENNIS CENTER

SQUIRES

WEDDINGS

SLOAN’S FORMALS &

CAKES/DESSERTS

WHISK DESSERT BAR JULIE ANNE’S LOWDER BAKERY BUTTERCUPS SUGAR SHEAUX

TUXEDO RENTAL MEN’S WAREHOUSE BOUTIQUE

VIDEOGRAPHER DONNIE HUDSON ROGER BRANIFF MASON DIES

DRESS-BRIDESMAID BELLA BRIDESMAIDS AZAURES HAPPILY EVER AFTER

THE WEDDING GOATS

DRESS-WEDDING

DELIA JEFFCOAT

HAPPY EVER AFTER FABULOUS FROCKS BRIDAL AZARUES HERS BRIDAL

WEDDING PLANNER IDO BRIDAL EXPO BRIANNA BELTON MALLORY BOGAN AT VENUE DE LACHUTE 601 SPRING EVENT VENUE SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

DR. PENNINGTON #1 PLASTIC SURGEON AGAIN AND PENNINGTON FACIAL PLASTICS #1 IN COSMETIC ENHANCEMENTS AGAIN.

Dr. Pennington - Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon & Dr. Souyoul - Board Certified Dermatologist

We are honored to be your go to office for cosmetics. Dr. Lindsey Pennington, double board certified facial plastic surgeon, and Dr. Skylar Souyoul, board certified dermatologist, both strive to bring out the natural beauty in all of their patients through cutting edge technology and a team of women who truly care. If you haven’t experienced the difference at Lindsey Pennington, MD Facial Plastics, call and make your complimentary consultation today! Along with their team of medical estheticians, they are available for cosmetic or in-depth skin consultations to assess what products and treatment plans are best for you as an individual. Dr. Pennington is highly specialized in facial procedures, injections, and surgery. She offers a full array of services from non-invasive injections of Botox and dermal fillers such as Juvéderm and Restylane to more in depth surgical procedures such as rhinoplasty (nose job), blepharoplasty (eyelid lifts), and rhytidectomy (facelifts and neck lifts). Dr. Souyoul specializes in disorders of the skin covering the entire body. Her expertise with noninvasive devices and injections of neurotoxins such as Botox and dermal fillers make her a natural fit to team up with Dr. Pennington and offer north Louisiana the region’s best cosmetic services, and SB Magazine readers agree! Come experience the difference at Lindsey Pennington, MD Facial Plastics! 6030 Line Avenue, Suite 110 Shreveport, LA 318-216-5366 • www.penningtonfacialplastics.com

38 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Voted Best New Restaurant! Runner up:

Catering • Date night • Dessert • Salad • Happy Hour • Martini • Vegetarian Dishes

Make your reservations today. exploretock.com/therevenir 6104 LINE AVENUE, SHREVEPORT, LA 318.606.2992 www.therevenir.com

@cypressbytheRevenir

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

40 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Pierremont Common 6505 Line Avenue, Ste 3 Shreveport, LA 318.868.9696 • THECOTTAGE.com

There is no place like home...

Voted BEST BUILDER 6th year!

Exceptional Craftsmanship Custom Homes & Remodeling since 1976. TMEBUILDER.COM • 318.868.3043

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Executive Chef, Renaudo Pipkins

Owner, Lacy Pynes Galligan

Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Signature Cocktails

SHREVEPORT: 855 Pierremont Rd 318.865.1124

Thank you for voting for us! #1 Best Brunch #1 Best Breakfast #1 Best Bloody Mary 42 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

BOSSIER CITY: 3107 Airline Dr Ste 300 318.402.024

anotherbrokenegg.com

FIND OUR TEAM OF STYLISTS @AVALONHAIRSALON

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24 43 3730 YOUREE DRIVE • 318-861-4247• @AVALONHAIRSALON AVALONHAIRSALON.NET

LAWN & LANDSCAPE

Deck the yard with lights and landscaping! Let us bring some Christmas spirit to your home with professional light installation and dazzling landscape design. We can also design your entryway to stand out! Call us for a free consultation and estimate!

44 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Legendary Authentic Cajun Cuisines

Authentic Nonna Randazzo’s New Orleans Style King Cakes available during Mardi Gras season!

BOSSIER CITY: 3933 Benton Road, Building D | (318) 741-2243 SHREVEPORT: 7805 East Kings Highway | (318) 670-7204

www.bergerons.com

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

318 Forum Magazine, 11-15-2023

46 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET From: https:// npaper- wehaa.com/ forum- news;see-2023/11/15;c-4172706

Thank you for voting Candace Dance Company as Best Dance Studio in SB!

At CDC we offer classes for ages 2 and up. Dancers have the option to dance recreationally or audition for our competition and performance dance teams. Our staff stays current and up-to-date on all new and upcoming dance trends by attending master classes from choreographers all over the country. CDC dancers are offered many opportunities including auditions for prestigious dance companies, scholarships, master classes with SYTYCD stars, and travel to conventions and competitions all over the area. We offer the following classes at our studios: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Pointe, Competition Teams, and Technique Classes (Danceline Prep). Call or email us today for pricing or registration details! Bossier City Studio 4480 Viking Drive

Benton Studio 5430 Airline Drive, Suite 300 SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

318-564-4404 | dance@candacedanceco.com | www.candacedanceco.com

GROW Bold, Thoughtful, Confident, Kind, Strong, Close at Centenary.

Join us for a Preview Day on February 24! centenary.edu/visit

H O M E O F S H R E V E P O R T- B O S S I E R ’ S O N LY C O L L E G E F O O T B A L L T E A M

48 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

NAMES FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: JACOB FUSSELL, MISSY FUSSELL, JIM LEE, AMY RANDALL, BRANDON LARKIN.

Thank you to our customers for entrusting us with your booking and payroll services!

FO ProSolutions specializes in providing comprehensive accounting services tailored to the needs of small to mid-sized businesses. Founded in 2015 by Shreveport native, Missy Fussell, the company excels in small business accounting, QuickBooks consulting, payroll services, and part-time CFO services, with the mission of ensuring that businesses maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records. Missy emphasizes the importance of freeing up business owners' time to focus on profitability by simplifying bookkeeping and saving both time and money. With a remarkable 26-year career in accounting and a successful background as a small business owner, Missy is well-suited for the meticulous demands of the accounting field. Her expertise is further underscored by her nine-year tenure as a Certified Intuit QuickBooks ProAdvisor and her role as an Intuit QuickBooks Solutions Provider. Outsourcing bookkeeping and payroll services offers a vital checks and balances system, instilling peace of mind in business owners, and ensuring the proper handling of their finances. The primary motivation for companies to outsource their bookkeeping services include accessing expert knowledge, maintaining accuracy, achieving consistent reconciliations, preventing fraud, and optimizing cost-effectiveness. Outsourcing allows business owners to channel their energy into running their operations more effectively, promoting growth, and increasing profits. Having seasoned professionals oversee financial matters ensures

confidence in making sound financial decisions. CFO ProSolutions distinguishes itself through its commitment to delivering expertise, top-tier service, dedication, and swift responsiveness to its clients. Their services enhance the quality and timeliness of financial information available to business owners. The team of accounting consultants at CFO ProSolutions is known for their friendly and professional demeanor, always eager to provide dedicated support to clients. A testimonial from business owner and client of CFO ProSolutions states it all - “Missy and her team have been instrumental in the success of our business. Missy has been functioning as our CFO and her advice and support keep our records up to snuff. I strongly recommend CFO ProSolutions.” -Alejandro Tapia 405 Ashley Ridge Blvd.

Shreveport, LA 71106 • 318.629.6266 www.shreveportcfo.com

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Thank you Shreveport/Bossier City and the Ark-La-Tex for voting us #1 Outdoor Patio Store!

Patio Furniture, Pottery, Ledge Loungers, and more! 8320 Line Ave. | Shreveport www.cornercollectiononline.net | (318) 868.6267 50 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Thank you for voting us Best Margarita, Best Street Taco, and One of the Best Mexican Restaurants!

Airline Shopping Center 2333 Airline Drive Bossier City, LA 318-752-3244

www.donjuanz.com

Pierremont Plaza 1409 E. 70th Street SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24 Shreveport, LA 51 318-524-9992

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST OF SB 2023! #1 BEST CAJUN - BEAUXJAX CRAFTHOUSE

#1 BEST BARTENDER - BRENT LINDGREN, FROZEN PIROGUE ONE OF THE BEST OUTDOOR PATIOS - FROZEN PIROGUE ONE OF THE BEST BARS - FROZEN PIROGUE ONE OF THE BEST SPORTS BARS - FROZEN PIROGUE ONE OF THE BEST CONCERT VENUES - HURRICANE ALLEY ONE OF THE BEST CAKES/DESSERTS - SUGAR SHEAUX 52 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

East Bank District - 500 Block Barksdale Blvd • 318-459-6672 www.eastbankmafia.com

S un V alley

J ackSon H ole

l ouiSiana

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

A French-Inspired

CULINARY EXPERIENCE Located in the Highland community of Shreveport, Fat Calf Brasserie offers French-inspired Southern cuisine. THANK YOU SHREVEPORT/BOSSIER FOR VOTING US: #1 APPETIZERS #1 DATE NIGHT #1 CATERER #1 WEDDING CATERER #1 FINE DINING #1 HAPPY HOUR #1 OUTDOOR PATIO #1 CHEF (ANTHONY FELAN) One Of The Best Locally Owned Restaurant For Restaurant Reservations or Event Inquiries, visit fatcalfbrasserie.com

23/24 | SBMAG.NET 54 DEC/JAN 3030 CRESWELL AVE, SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA 71104 • 318–351-CALF

WWW.FATCALFBRASSERIE.COM

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE IN 2023!

I’d like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible patients, local doctors, and the entire community for the unwavering support we’ve received at Fultz Physical Therapy this year. Your trust and collaboration have been the driving force behind our success. As we reflect on the past months, we are genuinely appreciative of the relationships we’ve built and the positive impact we’ve had on the health and well-being of our patients. It’s a privilege to serve such a wonderful community, and we look forward to continuing to provide exceptional care in the coming year. Thank you for being an integral part of the Fultz Physical Therapy family. 9462 ELLERBE RD #200, SHREVEPORT, LA • (318) 606-5262 5795 N MARKET ST SUITE 8, SHREVEPORT, LA • (318) 489-4298 � WWW.FULTZPT.COM SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Wishing you the gift of faith, the blessing of hope and the peace of His love at Christmas and always.

56 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Thank you for voting us

BEST GARDEN CENTER!

Rick Mitchell, Mark Walton, & Tim White.

6905 Greenwood Rd, Shreveport, LA 318.635.6296 • garrisonnursery.com SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

PIERREMONT MALL 4801 LINE AVE (318) 861.0100 58 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Ivan Smith Ivan Smith FURNITURE

FFURU RNITURE N I T UR E | MAT T RE SSE S | A P P LI A NCE S

Since 196 1961 Since 1961 196

Fi n d You r S h ow room Today Ber t Kou n s Loc a t i on i s O p e n S u n days ! N ex t to Ac a de my

THANK YOU

for voting us ONE OF THE BEST FURNITURE STORES SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Now carrying.. .

| SBMAG.NET 92 10 23/24 WALL ACE L AKE RD • 318. 7 7 3.1055 60 DEC/JAN

WWW. JOLIEBLONDEGIF TS.COM

Thank you for voting Joseph Guin Barber as Best Barber in SB!

Joseph Guin is a veteran stylist with 20 years in the salon and barbering industry. With a keen eye for style perfection and incomparable service delivery, he leads his team at Joseph Guin Barber with charm and technical guidance for a polished experience. Allow our barbers to welcome you to great services in a truly relaxing men’s atmosphere. 6018 Line Avenue Shreveport, Louisiana 71106 | 318.585.2887 | www.josephguinbarber.com SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

VOTED #1 BAKERY!

LOWDER KING CAKE KICKOFF! JAN 6, 2024

4019 Fern Avenue, Suite 500 Shreveport, LA

CALL US TO ORDER YOUR HOLIDAY TREATS! B R E A K FA S T PA S T R I E S • F R E S H B A K E D B R E A D S • S W E E T S

Cinnamon Rolls & Minis • Croissants & Fruit Danishes • Baguettes & French Bread • Jalapeño Cheddar Bread • Cookies & Brownies • Cookies Cakes • and more!

or call us at 318-562-1150 • www.lowderbaking.com • DEC/JANonline 23/24 | SBMAG.NET 62Order

@lowderbakingco

Flowers for any occasion! We are open 365 days a year to serve you.

Delivery Available

318-687-2200 • 800-853-1660 • rose-neathflowershop.com 2529 Southside Drive, Shreveport, LA 71118

@roseneathflowershop

The name you've trusted since 1932! Family-owned for 3 generations with 12 Locations.

RoseNeathFuneralHomes 1815 MARSHALL STREET SHREVEPORT, LA 318.222.0348

2201 AIRLINE DRIVE BOSSIER CITY, LA 318.746.2543

2500 SOUTHSIDE DRIVE SHREVEPORT, LA 318.687.1256

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Sibling Stems Sibling Stems is a family-owned and operated Event Florist located in North Louisiana with 6 years of experience and many more to come. Contact us today and we will provide you with the most perfect vibrant florals at your next event!

Thank You For Voting Us As One Of The Best Florists!

(225) 287-8085 • Siblingstems20@gmail.com •

64 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

@siblingstemflorists

lim Medical Clinic strives to help patients in a multitude of ways including medically monitored weight loss, cosmetic injections, hormone replacement therapy, skincare, and IV vitamin infusion therapy. Our team of doctors and advanced practice providers are here to help patients on their weight loss journey by prescribing weight loss injections and offering guidance on managing healthier lifestyles. The staff always goes above and beyond to ensure our patients are heard and we want the patients to be comfortable in their skin while gaining confidence. Additional services offered at Slim Medical are cosmetic injections. Our providers are certified in Botox, dermal fillers, and other noninvasive cosmetic procedures. These services not only boosted the self-confidence of all our patients but left real results that people love. At Slim Medical we believe all patients should feel their best.

Dr. Faraz Alwani & Dr. Tri Pham

We have experienced physicians here ready to discuss hormone replacement therapy which is a natural way to replenish hormone levels in men and women. This therapy has multitudes of benefits including improved energy, increased sex drive, improved bone health, and mental clarity. Other benefits are reduced body fat and decreased pre-menopause symptoms for women. We believe in helping patients achieve an optimal state of wellness. Skin health is also important at Slim Medical. We have highly skilled aestheticians for consultations to address skin concerns. One treatment offered here is HydraFacial. HydraFacials are catered to a patient’s skin needs with different serum skin boosters. The results from these treatments are visible immediately and patients will see an improvement in skin texture, radiance, and hydration and will leave the clinic glowing. Our clinic also stands out because of the diverse range of intravenous (IV) vitamin infusion therapies and intramuscular (IM) quick-shot injections offered. IV infusions can be tailored to the

patient’s individual needs and offer relief from dehydration, flu symptoms, GI illness, fatigue, stress, and even jet lag. These therapies will provide energy boost, improved hydration, and overall wellness all while being administered in a relaxing environment with massage chairs. • • • • • •

Weight loss management Botox and Filler PRP for hair replacement Hydrafacial Hormone Replacement Therapy IV hydration with Vitamins

955 PIERREMONT ROAD, SUITE #300 SHREVEPORT, LA 318. 606.2941 WWW.SLIMMEDICALCLINIC.COM SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US AS ONE OF THE BEST ART GALLERY/STUDIO IN SB! At The Clayground, we offer pottery painting, wheel throwing, and canvas painting, providing a therapeutic escape from the stresses of everyday life. Walk-ins are welcome at SB's premier creative studio. Come and get your hands dirty, while clearing your mind in the process!

STUDIO HOURS:

Wed-Sat: 11 am - 8 pm Sun: 12 pm - 6 pm Mon-Tues: Closed

| SBMAG.NET 66 318-725-2665 | www.theclaygroundla.com | 3820 North Market, Building A, Shreveport, LA DEC/JAN 23/24

Thank you for voting us Best Of SB 2023!

Locally Made Jewelry, Gifts, and Apparel

The Gilded Oyster Wed-Sat, 11-4 Sun 1-3, In December Only

818 Montrose, Shreveport, LA | 318-773-5712 � � @thegildedoysteronmontrose 67 www.sandyrizzo.com | SBMAG.NET

DEC/JAN 23/24

FOR SIX STRAIGHT DECADES, only one unstoppable force has flat-out dominated

popular culture -breaking down barriers, pushing boundaries and letting nothing and no one stand in her way.

THE CHER SHOW is the Tony Award®-winning musical of her story, and it’s packed with so much Cher that it takes three women to play her: the kid starting out, the glam pop star, and the icon. THE CHER SHOW is 35 smash hits, six decades of stardom, two rock star husbands, a Grammy®, an Oscar®, an Emmy®, and enough Tony Award-winning Bob Mackie gowns to cause a sequin shortage in New York City—all in one unabashedly fabulous new musical that will have audiences dancing in the aisles!

Wednesday, DECEMBER 13, 2023 • 7:30 PM 68 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

thestrandtheatre.com (318) 226-8555

Welcome to Luxury Living in Shreveport! Experience the height of luxury living in Shreveport. 318-225-9021 | www.coatesbluff.com | 1301 Coates Bluff Dr, Shreveport, LA 71104

Find the Perfect Floor Plan at the Willows! Beautiful apartments with quality options to make you feel at home. 318-225-9021 | www.coatesbluff.com | 1301 Coates Bluff Dr, Shreveport, LA 71104 SBMAG.NET | 69 DEC/JAN 23/24

Lawn care is a

partnership.

Weed Man Lawn Care

Thank you for voting us as One of the Best Lawn Care in SB! For more than 50 years, Weed Man Lawn Care has created outdoor yards and landscapes that our customers are proud to call home. From lawn fertilization to weed control, integrated pest management, and everything in between, Weed Man has a lawn care program for every lawn.

70 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

OUR SERVICES: • • • • • •

Fertilization Weed Control Surface Insect Control Crabgrass Control Mechanical Core Aeration Grub Prevention & Control

(318) 828-2872 4770 Southern Avenue, Shreveport, LA 71106 https://shreveport.weedman.com

• • • • •

Lawn Disease Control Fire Ant Management Nutsedge Control Soil Revitalizer Mosquito Control Services

Visit us for all of your holiday shopping needs!

Open Monday-Saturday

Premade & Custom Gift Baskets

Cheese & Charcuterie Boards - Gift Baskets - Stocking Stuffers - Gift Registry

928 Pierremont Rd • Shreveport, LA 71106 • 318-869-1236 www.cubanliquor.com SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Thank you for voting us #1 Best Italian Restaurant

FALL IN LOVE WITH OUR FRESH PASTA THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! ALL OF OUR FRESH, MADE FROM SCRATCH PASTAS ARE AVAILABLE BY THE HALF PAN, OR FULL PAN FOR YOUR HOLIDAY GATHERINGS.

920 PIERREMONT RD #110 SHREVEPORT, LA 318.946.8698 MON-THURS 11AM-8PM FRI-SAT 11AM-9PM DINE IN • PATIO DINING • TAKE OUT WWW.MYPASTACAFFE.COM

Call to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome Mon-Sat. TAT2CASEY INK’D UP TATTOO RESCUE

@tat2casey @inkduptattoorescue @sammyjo4298

Hours: 2:00pm - 10:00pm 318-617-7053 9376 Mansfield Rd Shreveport, LA 71118

72 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

We at iShuttle accept Shreveport’s Best in Transportation with great honor.

105 Dalton St, Suite #B Shreveport, LA 318-872-2152 www.ishuttle.us

Our amazing team of transportation professionals are the reason we’re being recognized. iShuttle staff continue to set the standard for customer service and driver safety. Our maintenance team keeps the wheels on the bus going ‘round and ‘round. iShuttle conducted over 5,500 trips in 2022, ensuring all our passengers arrived safe and on time. This year we began a new service contract with Louisiana Tech University and opened a second office. We now service the entire I-20 corridor! We’ve made sizable investments in driver training, safety, and compliance management technologies which will continue to allow our team a competitive advantage and ensure that iShuttle drivers and vehicles remain the best on the road!

We are looking forward to meeting the transportation needs of our community in 2023. Thank you.

Jeff wants to say THANK YOU AGAIN and he, Christiana, Addie, Annabelle and Judah wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy 2024! I began my career as a financial advisor with Raymond James in 2010. I am very grateful to be a part of so many lives in the Shreveport-Bossier community. It brings me great joy to be able to help my clients discover their path to financial freedom and a work-optional lifestyle in their future. There are many areas of wealth management but I primarily focus on serving individuals and businesses through investment management, retirement planning, life insurance, and estate planning. I provide the most value for my clients by helping them to discover the vast array of products and services that are available in the marketplace and then narrow those options down to what will best suit their needs.

Photo Credit - Andy Roberts

JEFF LYONS, CFP®

First Vice President, Investments Financial Advisor AAMS® WMS®

The Lyons Group

T 318.424.2000 // 800.598.3390 F 318.424.2200 401 Market St, Ste 1400 Shreveport, LA 71101

My mission in life is to align myself with Jesus Christ every day so that I can love the world around me and bring the gospel everywhere I go. I pray that during this Christmas season everyone is able to experience the unsurpassable joy that comes with celebrating God sending His Son Jesus down to Earth because of His great love for us. “For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

raymondjames.com/lyons Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Thank you for voting K9-Nation as the #1 Dog Trainer and One of the Best Dog Boarding in SB! Discover fun, quality care at our doggy daycare! K9 Nation offers training, doggie daycare, and boarding. Steve Hill, the owner and founder of K9 Nation Louisiana, has loved and cared for dogs since he was a young boy. For generations, The Hill family has bred and trained dogs. When Steve was young, he began what became a lifelong fascination with dogs. Although it was informal, he learned how dogs think, act, communicate, and learn through that experience. To further his experience, Steve sought out the best dog trainers, so he could learn from them. Steve has graduated from the Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers, as well as Bart Bellon’s NePoPo School and the prestigious Training Without Conflict School with Ivan Banavelov! His passion is transforming dogs and owners!

318-655-1144 | 122 Rosemary Lane, Stonewall, LA | www.TheK9NationLA.com

KADY BETH DESIGN

Creating spaces that promote a clean living space that suits your style.

KADY BETH GOULD FOUNDER/LEAD DESIGNER KADYBETHDESIGN@GMAIL.COM 3715 BENTON RD, BOSSIER CITY

74 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

w w w. k a d y b e t h d e s i g n .c o m

SB Best Wedding Planner

Shreveport’s Premier Estate Venue

Life’s milestones deserve a unique experience and planning a wedding can be overwhelming. We are proud to recognize SB Magazine’s Best Wedding Planner and our very own in-house Planner-designer, Mallory Bogan. Her guidance and original ideas, together with her experience in the complex wedding process, provide the assurance you need when your wedding day finally arrives. You can relax knowing that Mallory is in command of every detail and is committed to making your wedding as unique as you are. You deserve an exceptional wedding encounter. We invite you to experience Venue de LaChute! 5949 Yearwood Rd Shreveport, LA 71115 • 318-572-2475

venuedelachute.com

Thank You For Voting Us Best Gift Shop Again!

Trunk Show Fri. & SaT., December 15 & 16

BEST GIFT SHOP

BEST

BRIDAL REGISTRY

BEST

LOCALLY OWNED RESTAURANT

Gifts • Bridal • Biscottis

318.868.6700 | 5807 Youree Drive | Shreveport, LA | lewisgifts.com SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST AUTO COLLISION!

Line Avenue Collision

6815 Line Ave. Shreveport, LA 71106 318.865.7580

Your Partner in Health and Wellness When you’re looking for the very best in care for your family, choose the doctors most trusted by the community for everything from the sniffles to severe injuries and everything in-between. We offer several convenient new locations for primary care with state-of-the-art equipment, including full lab and x-ray, in a beautiful and comfortable environment. At Ochsner LSU Health, we are dedicated to caring for you and your entire family.

Congratulations to Dr. Ellie Hudnall Voted #1 Family Medicine Doctor And #1 General Practitioner

76 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

ochsnerlsuhs.org

Happy Holidays from your favorite plumbing and HVAC company! Thank you Shreveport/Bossier City for voting us Best Heating and Air & One of the Best Plumbing!

318-465-2558 • LMP - 7194 • LMC 70763 • LMNGF-15726

Renee’s Dance Studio combines correct

technique with fun to create age-appropriate classes for every dancer in Natchitoches, Stonewall, and the surrounding areas.

AGES 3 & UP

Celebrating 16 years of dance at the Natchitoches Campus and 6 years at the Stonewall Campus, we are very thankful for our incredible dance family, past, present, and future! While we host a large recreational student base, we also have a competition team, based out of our Natchitoches Campus. Our team recently earned the National Championship Title at the Revolution Talent Competition in Galveston, TX! ReneesDanceStonewall@yahoo.com 318-564-7916 128 Diane Lance, Suite C, Stonewall, LA SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Wedding + Event

planning | coordination | catering

Services are available both onsite at our venue & offsite!

Prevot Design Services, APAC 601 SPRING STREET | SUITE A SHREVEPORT, LA 71101

78 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

601 spring street, Shreveport, LA 318.300.3177 www.601SPRING.com

318.227.9244 | www.prevotdesign.com

MOVIE THEATERS

Thanks for making

ONE OF THE BEST LOCAL COMMUNITY THEATERS!

ABBY SINGER’S BISTRO

FILM EDUCATION

EVENTS 617 Texas Street 318.459.4122 robinsonfilmcenter.org

Somdal Associates is a multi-disciplined design firm based in Shreveport that has offered design and planning services to clients since 1908.

5925 LINE AVE SUITE 3 • SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 (318) 425-7721 • WWW.SOMDAL.COM SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US AS ONE OF THE BEST VETERINARIANS IN THE AREA!

ASHLEI BAUER, DVM MALLORY CAMPBELL, DVM

318-797-7902 9261 Youree Drive, Shreveport, LA www.southsideahonyouree.com

80 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

We are so excited to be voted as the TOP insurance agency in the SB area! We want to thank all our customers! Our hearts are in this community, we were born here, our kids go to school here, and we love giving back! Follow us on Facebook to find out about the fun promotions & giveaways we have all Robby Latham throughout the year! Don’t Miss Our Most Popular Events: • Annual Crawfish Boil-April • Free Deer Corn Promotion-September • Halloween Costume Contest-October • Annual Calendar Give-a-Way-November • Santa & “The Grinch” Stops By-December

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

9700 Mansfield Road • Shreveport, Louisiana 71118 • 318-688-4500 • robby@robbylatham.com • www.robbylatham.com

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

THANKS FOR VOTING US BEST SPORTS BAR WA L L-T O -WA L L T V ’ S | S C R AT C H M A D E M E N U

SHREVEPORT 7031 Youree Drive 318.220.4256

BOSSIER CITY 3010 Airline Drive 318.747.5588

DOWNLOAD THE WALK-ON’S APP TO EARN REWARDS!

ORDER THROUGH THE APP. SCAN CODE. TAP LINK.

VOTED BEST

CHIROPRACTOR IN SB

Bring the Heat With KitchenAid A new way to spice up the heart of your home has arrived at Coburn’s. KitchenAid’s sleek Smart Oven+ is controllable through your Google Assistant or Alexa-enabled devices and includes grill, baking stone and steamer attachments. Enjoy a smarter way to cook with nearly 100 pre-installed recipes and Even-Heat™ True Convection capabilities at your fingertips.

Dr. William Duncan D.C. Dr. Ryan Bates, D.C. 8610 B Fern Ave Shreveport, La 71105 318-220-8753 • www.bateschirosport.com

THANK YOU! 82 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

VISIT COBURN'S KITCHEN & BATH SHOWROOM TODAY! 5030 Commerce Dr. // Bossier City, LA 71111 Monday – Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (After-hours appointments are available.) (318) 741-6152

CoburnShowroom.com/Bossier

THE PERFECT START TO A PERFECT MARRIAGE WHERE LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED

Sandals

HONEYMOONS

Crissy Parikh | 318-347-6944 303 Grist Mill Dr Benton, LA

SERVING NORTHWEST LA FOR OVER 21 YEARS

Thank you for voting us

THE BEST in AUTO GLASS!

AUTO • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CITY-MANSFIELD 318-524-9980 | 318-747-6700 | 318-872-0017

WWW.GLASSSERVICES.ORG

cparikh.dreamvacations.com/travel/HomePage.html

JJExt_SHRV_SBMag-Bestof_qtrpg_fmily_11-16-23_JJExt_SHRV-SBMag-Besto

Family Owned, Customer Focused, Results Driven. Proud to be Louisiana’s largest, independentlyowned, pest-control company always...

Shielding What’s Near and Dear

against Termites, Pests and Mosquitoes.

Over

6 0 years...

Discover your new favorite shopping destination at Give Me 3! If you’re someone who enjoys happiness, fun, and all things shiny and glittery, then you’re going to love shopping with us! We pride ourselves on providing our customers with the perfect gift options. • Holiday Gifts • Personalized Gifts • Gifts for the Fellas • Back To School Gifts • Sandy & Rizzo Items 2850 Douglas Dr # D, Bossier City, LA 318.918.9280 | shopgiveme3.com

Yeah! Yeah

Robert John, Jr.

Robert “Bobby” John, Sr.

Robert Lewis John, III

-Th an k y o u f o r y o u r v o t e s o f c o n f i de n c e! -

JJ EXT.CO M • 1.800.737.2847 SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Furniture • Home Accessories • Wall Decor Custom Bedding & Drapery • Gifts

Thank you to our wonderful customers for their loyalty and support and for voting us as one of the best Interior Designers in SB! We love serving the local area and outlying communities!

Happy Holidays

Located in Southfield Shopping Center 5735 Youree Drive Shreveport • 318.670.8122

Proudly Serving Two Locations Locally Owned Since 2021

Thank you for voting us Best of SB 2023!

One of the Best Liquor Stores One of the Best Daiquiris 110 0 H a w n A v e , S h r e v e p o r t , L A

318.218.1934 w w w . m o o r e s a c .c o m

84 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

789 Duckwater Landing, 123 Highway 3227, Suite C, Suite C, Bossier City, LA Haughton, LA (318) 517-2458 (318) 615-4411 www.sterling-spirits.business.site

Open Mon-Fri 10:30am3:00pm

Thank you for voting us Best Soul Food in SB! Our family-owned cafeteriastyle restaurant specializes in soulful and country cooking, and we’re open for lunch from Monday to Friday. Our whole fried catfish, fried pork chops, and Friday-only barbecued ribs are some of our most popular dishes, along with our homemade veggies and hot water cornbread.

University Veterinary Hospital

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST OF 2023 FOR BOARDING, DAYCARE, & VETERINARIAN! 318-797-5522 | 7700 E Kings Hwy, Shreveport, LA uvhvets.com

1136 N Market St, Shreveport, LA | 318-675-0007

Medical, Surgical and Cosmetic Dermatology A part of Willis-Knighton Physician Network

sbmag.net

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Yellow BY MATT VINES

FEVER “We no longer have funerals. People are blotted out of existence.”

uburban life is not for the faint-of-heart. The house needs to be maintained. The yard has to be mowed, mulched, weeded, pruned and planted. Sure, you can pay someone to do this, but that costs money and time. And while it’s true that it can be satisfying to tame your tiny slice of the planet, it can also get old. Real old.

That was an observation made in the upstart Daily Times (now the Shreveport Times) near the height of the Yellow Fever Epidemic in 1873. That epidemic killed one-quarter of Shreveport’s population in the third-worst yellow fever epidemic in U.S. history. More than 1,200 died in a 12-week span between August and November of that year. It was a perfect storm.

86 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

A virulent strain of yellow fever that floated from Cuba and the Mississippi River to the Red River sacked a booming Shreveport town built on riverboat and land commerce. Because Shreveport was a rapidly growing town with an influx of immigrant populations that hadn’t been previously exposed to yellow fever, more than 1,200 people (approximately 25 percent of the town’s population) died in the third-worst Yellow Fever epidemic in U.S. history. “The Daily Times (now The Shreveport Times) was a year into publication, and it got to where all they could do was publish the daily death records,” said White, an LSUS history professor. “Shreveport was a nexus of trade on the Red River and on the Texas Trail. Any time you go undergo such a dramatic population loss, it changes the town. While that trade helped bring yellow fever to town, that trade also allowed Shreveport’s population to double seven years later by 1880.” But before the breakthrough after the epidemic, a quarantined Shreveport faced images of wagon carts picking up the dead headed for a mass grave burial.

Although the science and medical community didn’t know at the time, mosquitos were the cause of yellow fever. However, there were observations being made about the worst of the outbreak being near standing bodies of brackish water, ideal for mosquito breeding. Shreveport’s Silver Lake and standing water in St. Paul’s Bottoms provided fertile ground. One of the wettest summers on record contributed to a mosquito explosion. The daily death rate became so high that funerals could no longer be carried out, and the City of Shreveport buried more than 800 of yellow fever victims in a mass grave in City Cemetery (now Oakland Cemetery). For 150 years, those in the mound weren’t named. But two LSUS history professors were key cogs in dreaming up a memorial that names 740 of the buried. That memorial was unveiled Saturday, October 7, 2023, as a highlight of the months-long commemoration of the epidemic 150 years ago, providing a tribute to those that were previously not memorialized. Seven large plaques with the names of the fallen circle a tall gray obelisk on top of the mound. “It’s truly wonderful to see such a large group of people honoring a large group of people,” said Shreveport mayor Tom Arceneaux to a gathering of about 200 at the memorial. “For 150 years, there’s been no dedicated memorial to offer a fitting tribute to these people, and today, we correct that oversight.” Religious leaders from the seven existing Shreveport churches and temples in 1873 prayed for the victims amid thoughts of being “united by our humanity.” Leaders from the Antioch Baptist Church, the B’nai Zion Temple, the Church of the Holy Cross, the Catholic Diocese of Shreveport, First Baptist Church, First Methodist Church, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Little Union Baptist Church, and St. Mark’s Cathedral offered prayers and reflections. “The people buried here come from all walks of life – they are buried here without regard to social status, to religion or race,” said Paul Strickland, president of the Oakland Cemetery and Preservation Society. “This memorial honors the people buried here from the 1873 epidemic but also honors earlier victims of yellow fever. “There were so many people involved in this project, but I don’t know if any of this comes to fruition without Dr. Cheryl White.” White, an LSUS history professor, spearheaded the committee that planned the memorial and the commemoration events happening this fall. The memorial took two years to plan and fundraise and six months to build. White said the epidemic was the “most transformative event in Shreveport’s history” earlier Saturday in a symposium titled “Yellow Fever: 150 Years Later.” Fellow LSUS history professor Dr. Gary Joiner, who is chair of the history department, led the research to name the souls

MEMORIAL NAMES: Pictured is one of seven plaques of the Yellow Fever Memorial at Oakland Cemetery.

buried in the mound. Joiner used the daily reporting from The Daily Times, a crude 1906 map of Oakland Cemetery, death cards housed in the Northwest Louisiana Archives, and a dash of logical creativity to name about 740 of the approximately 800 buried in the mound. He and a group of students started work in 2006 as they mapped out Oakland Cemetery and identified all known persons buried in actual graves. While The Times did publish a daily death report, the newspaper didn’t have complete records because the epidemic affected their own staff. And because Shreveport, a bustling commerce town, didn’t want to shut itself down at the onset of the epidemic, the earliest deaths were recorded as something other than yellow fever. “There was a baby who died because of ‘teething,’” Joiner said. “Another died of breakbone fever, which was a thing but that wasn’t the cause of death in this situation. “If you just read the daily list of the dead, you’d be missing tons of people. But there were society columns and other stories that mentioned people dying who weren’t in the official list of the dead.” SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

Joiner built a database of those who died – all but two in that 12-week span died of yellow fever (the other two were gunshot victims) – and used records of those buried in actual plots or that were moved to other cemeteries to determine who was actually buried in the mound. Dr. Beverly Burden, an entomologist and LSUS associate professor of biology, explains how mosquitos transmit diseases, which are responsible for up to 1 million deaths per year currently. The mosquito-born illness that causes the most deaths today is malaria. “A virus lives in the intestine of a mosquito, and that virus has to forge its way out into the mosquito’s open circulatory system and will make its way to the salivary glands,” Burden said. “Only female mosquitos bite because they need a blood meal to lay a clutch of eggs. “If a virus has traveled to the salivary grands, it can be passed on through the bite.” As bad as the epidemic was, colder temperatures arrived earlier than normal and the “Merciful Frost” killed off the adult mosquito population, which can’t live below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Amid the horrid conditions of the epidemic, heroes surfaced. Five Catholic priests flocked to minister and care for the sick, knowing that they themselves would likely catch the disease and die. All five priests – Father Jean Pierre and Isidore Quemerais of Holy Trinity Church, Father Jean-Marie Biler of the Fairfield Convent, Father Louis Marie Gergaud and Father Francois LeVezouet of Natchitoches – did die. The French natives’ cases for beatification and canonization were advanced this past June by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and now lie with The Vatican in Rome. Five LeVezouet descendants were on hand this weekend to witness the commemoration. Another hero came in the form of U.S. Army Corps of Engineer Eugene Woodruff. Paul Strickland, president of the Oakland Cemetery and Preservation Society, addressed the crowd Saturday at the dedication of the Yellow Fever Memorial at Oakland Cemetery. The memorial names almost all of the approximately 800 victims buried in the Yellow Fever Mound during the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1873.

The Ohio native was a terrific source of information about the epidemic because of letters written to his mother. He was an Army lieutenant in a blue coat during a tension-filled Reconstruction after a bloody Civil War and was beloved by locals. He stayed behind to care for the sick when the Army pulled its personnel from the town. He died in late September. Panelist Dr. Jeff White, a medical doctor who is a yellow fever expert, said Shreveport did make public health improvements after the epidemic. “It spurred the conviction of the government and the town to create a charity hospital,” said Jeff White, who said Shreveport had no centralized medical facility in 1873. “It’s important to remember heroes, because just as we faced challenges with COVID-19, we’ll no doubt see a pandemic influenza in the coming years or decades. “In times like those, we need to look back at the heroes of our past.”

88 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Tips to Eat a Little Better

BY : ANGELA COSTAKIS

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

o quote Google’s result when you ask it, “What is wellness?” Google says, “Wellness is the act of practicing healthy habits on a daily basis to attain better physical and mental health outcomes so that instead of just surviving, you're thriving.” To me, wellness is an ideal. It’s striving to do better –physical, mental, fiscal, occupational, social, spiritual, or some other area where we fall short of perfect.

I have lost 40 pounds in the last six months. In a hectic life when you’re older than 40 and younger than 50 (don’t say old), it’s hard work - really hard - so I need all the help I can get to continue this physical pursuit of wellness. The holidays intimidate me. How do you maneuver the sweets, treats, cocktails, and fantastic carbs and stay on track? I asked a good friend who is a registered dietitian for some advice and thought it might be helpful to pass along to others in my shoes. Tammi Verdin, RDN, LD, is with Verdin Enterprises; she consults with hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities around Louisiana and south Arkansas. 1. Eat thoughtfully. My Memaw had amazing willpower. She always ate small portions from small plates. I wish I had learned that lesson when she was preaching it to me! Like Memaw, Tammi recommends eating from a small plate – less plate real estate means less food. Chew slowly and eat slowly. Break the meal into several courses. Skip going back for seconds. Eat until you are satisfied, not full. It takes your body 20 minutes for your brain to realize that you have eaten. 2. Portions. Tammi calls it “half your plate.” Fill half your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables – these are the non-starchy fruits and veggies. Fill half of the other half (a quarter of your plate) with carbohydrates, including starchy fruits and vegetables. Fill the remaining quarter with lean protein. Your portion of lean protein should be around the size of a deck of cards. Your portion of carbohydrates should be around half a cup. 3. Don’t skip. Boy math or girl math – either way… the math isn’t what you think it is. Skipping meals doesn’t mean you get to eat double dinner because you didn’t eat lunch. Skipping meals lowers your metabolism, and you burn less

energy. It makes your blood sugar and your hormones whacky. It makes you more likely to overeat at your next meal.

4. Water. Drink a glass of water before you eat. If you drink a certain amount of water daily, try to keep it up during the holidays, i.e., get your sips in. Water helps digestion and may help you feel full, which prevents overeating. 5. Sleep. Get plenty of ZZZZZZZs. Not enough sleep can wreck your metabolism and hormone levels. You may also be hungrier and lack the energy to exercise. 6. Moderation. Don’t deprive yourself of the foods you look forward to during the holidays. Enjoy the sweets, treats, cocktails, and fantastic carbs in moderation and on occasion. Half a piece of desert tastes better than none and sits better on the hips than a whole piece. 7. Recruit a buddy. There’s power (and safety) in numbers. If someone else is eating healthier with you, it’s a lot easier than being the lone calorie counter. 8. Exercise. The holidays are busy, but if you exercise regularly, keep it up. Get in your steps! It’s easy to get distracted with holiday activities and skip your fitness time, so plan ahead and prioritize your health. Regardless of your level of fitness, the holidays have lots of opportunities to be active: walk to see Christmas lights, shop (not online, out around town), go to a bowl game (lots of walking and stairs), go to a Candlelight service (up, down, up, down, it’s its own workout), or give someone a bike so you have to ride along with them. 9. Meal planning. Holiday meals are typically rich in carbs but low in protein. So, make the effort to incorporate plenty of protein. Roasted turkey is healthier than fried turkey. In lieu of butter, consider using olive oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, or coconut oil. Maybe have whole-grain rolls instead of sweet rolls. Use cooking methods like baking, steaming, or grilling instead of frying. Avoid processed foods – make real mashed potatoes instead of boxed, instant mashed potatoes. Homemade cranberry sauce is better than cranberry out of a can. 10. Alcohol. Avoid or limit alcohol. If you have a drink, don’t mix it with something with high sugar or calories. In my case, this means an occasional bourbon and Coke… Zero. SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

SB CRAFTY CORNER

Tree-Mendous Make your ornaments look

BY : DAKOTA MORGAN

Materials

HOW TO MAKE

SALT DOUGH

ORNAMENTS Salt dough ornaments are easy to make at home! Follow these steps to start a new tradition! Gather ‘round the kitchen table, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for an afternoon full of fun and creativity. ’Tis the season to be crafty and establish new family traditions with these salt dough ornaments! These ornaments are a lovely homemade gift and an enjoyable Christmas tradition, which you can create for the entire family or classroom with almost no effort and plenty of personalization options. Making these ornaments with your children will be a fantastic experience, and you can hang them on the tree for many years to come! This is the best salt dough recipe available, so you won't be disappointed.

Safety Precautions:

Adult supervision is required at all times. Do not ingest this dough. It is not intended for eating. dough ornaments are fatal to pets, they cannot handle 23/24 Salt | SBMAG.NET 90 DEC/JAN the salt. Be sure to hang them high and out of your pet's reach.

• • • • • • • •

1 cup All-Purpose Flour 1/4 cup Table Salt \1/3 cup Water, plus 1 tablespoon Food Coloring or Acrylic Paint 1 Drinking Straw or skewer Nonstick Baking Spray Parchment Paper 1 roll Colorful Ribbon (1/8 to 1/4inch wide), Twine, or String

Tools • •

Mixing Spoon Rolling Pins

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 200°F. Place the rack in the center position. Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Next, line the work area with butcher paper to prevent your counters or table from becoming stained. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt until well combined. In a glass measuring cup, stir in the water and optional food coloring or paint. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and slowly pour in the colored water, starting with half the amount and adding more as needed to form a firm dough that is moist but not sticky. Stir well. Knead the dough with your hands for approximately 10 minutes (on top of the parchment paper), or until the dough has become smooth and the color is distributed throughout. If the dough is too sticky, simply add extra flour and salt in a 4:1 ratio (such as 4 tablespoons flour and 1 tablespoon salt)

THANKS FOR VOTING FOR US!

Making The Salt Dough Ornaments Firstly, place the dough on parchment paper and use a rolling pin to flatten it to a thickness of 1/8 inch. Then, use any cookie cutters you like to cut out shapes of the dough. You may also use various items to stamp the dough to create texture or personalize the ornaments with initials, last name or a year, using alphabet stamps. If there are any leftover scraps, knead them, roll them again and cut out additional ornaments. Repeat this process until all the dough is used up. Once you have cut out the ornaments, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a straw to cut a small hole near the top of each ornament, where you want to hang it from. Remember to discard the small circular piece of dough that you remove to create the hole.

Baking The Salt Dough Ornaments Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until dry. Flip the ornaments halfway through baking so that the underneath side can dry out as well. When done baking, remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. After they have cooled down, you can use acrylic paint to add your personal touch. Finally, thread a ribbon or string through the holes and tie them to hang on the tree.

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

H eidi

THE STUDENT SECTION

Johnson “

Heidi is an excellent student; she reports that she has never gotten a grade below “B” on her report cards.

92 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

By Elaine Pool

hat do you have when you’ve got an 8thgrade girl with big and little brothers who loves math and loves music, and crafting? You have 13-year-old Heidi Johnson, SB Magazine’s public school Student of the Month. If she were middle-aged, one might call her a “Renaissance Person.” Heidi volunteers in her church’s preschool nursery during worship services and serves as a youth worker during Vacation Bible School in the summer; she loves working with children. She is a little on the fence about her career goals; she wavers between being a teacher or a veterinarian. She loves kids; she says kids have really big imaginations and will always talk to you; they will say anything that comes to mind. She is also a lover of all animals; currently, at home, she and her family have one dog, one chicken, and one lizard gecko.

Heidi loves being outdoors: hiking, riding bicycles, and playing tennis are some of her favorites. She feels she is the “glue of the family;” if her brothers are fighting or arguing, she’s the good middle point in the conflict. She likes crafting with anything she can find around the house and loves worship music and Taylor Swift; she is a self-described “Swiftie.” Her favorite food is Fettuccine Alfredo, and her favorite candy is Twix; Heidi says she “grew up on those.” While she loves math now, this wasn’t always the case. It wasn’t until this school year that Heidi grew to love it, and she gives all the credit to her 8th-grade math teacher, Ms. Darlene

Alexander. She believes that Ms. Alexander is a really good teacher who makes the subject really enjoyable and fun. One way Ms. Alexander keeps her students motivated is by throwing kisses at them – not the smoochy ones, of course; she throws Hershey’s Kisses to her students when they get the right answer. Heidi is an excellent student; she reports that she has never gotten a grade below “B” on her report cards. Although she’s not a big reader, Heidi will read a book that looks interesting; her favorite ones so far are the Hunger Games series. She will watch movies that look good, and she really likes watching movie trailers. She works on the school yearbook staff, helping sort photos and design page spreads. The easiest thing about being in 8th grade, Heidi believes, is that the workload is much lighter this year. She feels that she has figured out how middle school works, and classes are a lot less stressful. The 8th graders have more free time, which takes a lot of weight off of their shoulders, she thinks. The hardest thing about 8th grade is that she and her friends will soon transition to high school. If her friends all go to different schools, Heidi is afraid of friendships splitting. Heidi sees herself in future days either working with kids or animals. If given the choice, she would love to attend college in North Carolina; she fell in love with the area after a family vacation there. If she could go back and give her younger self any advice, Heidi said she would tell herself to work hard because it would pay off one day. Also, she would tell young Heidi not to trust her brother with all her secrets, lest he get mad and reveal them to anyone who will listen, not that she knows anything about that.

SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

THE STUDENT SECTION

Townes

“

Wilhite

Townes is a very smart child; he is well-rounded, playing several sports. He is a good friend and is very eloquent when one is talking to him.

94 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

By Elaine Pool

ometimes when meeting a student for the first time, it is obvious that he or she is a rare gem. This is the case with Townes Wilhite, a 6th grade student at First Baptist Church School (FBCS), and SB Magazine’s Private School Student of the Month. Townes is an 11-year-old who talks and acts like someone much older. He is articulate and aware of his strengths and weaknesses, and yet is still able to be a “real kid.” He loves playing soccer and tennis, reading Michael Vey books, and is on the Student Council at school. He describes his soccer travel team as “everything a kid wants to do - run and scream.” He is not as thrilled with having morning routines; he wants more time to do what he wants to do, but he understands the necessity of those routines. He freely admits that he is not good at being organized; he said that his older sister and his mother help him with it, especially in the first week of school. Townes’ favorite food is spaghetti from Monjunis; he is not as thrilled with salads or chicken – he said they are “too plain.”

Townes plans to become an engineer and an architect; he already knows of some nearby colleges that offer programs he is interested in. While he loves the idea of building commercial buildings such as office complexes, he is not very attracted to the concept of house design or building. He wants people to know that he is very dedicated to his religion; “God is a big part of my success, and I am very blessed to be at FBCS.” He noted that growing up can be a little hard; while grown-ups

may “expect you to do certain things, they might get mad if I offer my opinion. It’s hard to grow up and still be a kid.” The best thing about growing up, he said, is that he has more free time to do what he wants. Townes can readily see himself as a 25-year-old; he sees himself as a hard-working person trying to start a business and a family, a serious, focused, on-task resident of Shreveport. FBCS Middle School Director Jessica Burford said that Townes is a very smart child; he is well-rounded, playing several sports. He is a good friend and is very eloquent when one is talking to him. Townes enjoys being involved in different activities, including service projects to help put back into the community. He is in the Gifted program at FBCS, lists Math as his strongest subject, and likes problem-solving pursuits, such as crime scene (CSI) puzzles in school. Townes said that he likes middle school better than elementary school because changing classes is more interesting than being stuck in one class for three hours. If he could offer advice to his 2nd-grade self, Townes would tell him that “it gets better, and you’ll have so many friends and so many good people around you; try to make friends as fast as possible.” Townes chose his 2nd-grade self because he and his family moved to Shreveport at the start of that school year, and he knows what changing schools feels like. Here’s what Townes had to say when asked what he would tell people about his school: “First Baptist Church School is a great school. In second grade, I didn’t know much about God. FBCS focuses on Christianity; the Bible classes helped me with my faith and being a better person. First Baptist is very welcoming and gives me a sense of protection that I don’t know you’ll feel anywhere else.”

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Santa

SB HISTORY

When

ears ago, it wasn’t Christmas until Santa arrived in his sleigh at the Sears on Southern Avenue. Twin Blends Northwest History Hunters wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas! What better way to say it than to feature some rare inside photos from 1967 that we have uncovered at the NWLA of the famous Santa sleigh at Sears on Southern Avenue in Shreveport, Louisiana, back in the day? How many of you remember this ride? How many of you know the history of Santa’s Rocket Ship? Santa's Rocket Ship at Sears in Shreveport was a beloved Christmas tradition that has been enjoyed by generations of families in Louisiana. Santa Claus would arrive on his rocket ship to greet children and take them on a magical ride. The rocket ship was a fixture at the Sears store for many years, bringing joy and wonder to children during the holiday season. Although the rocket ship is no longer at the Sears store (the Sears store has been empty for years), it still holds a special place in the hearts of those who remember it fondly. Every holiday season, children and families eagerly awaited their turn to embark on this thrilling adventure through space with Santa at the helm. As the countdown to blastoff began, the atmosphere was electric. The ride operator counted down the seconds until the rocket ship would take off, and the riders braced themselves for the exhilarating journey ahead. The countdown created a sense of anticipation and excitement as everyone waited for the moment when the rocket ship would lift off the ground and soar into the sky. The riders were propelled forward, and

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Rode a Rocket

the ride's speed and motion simulated the sensation of blasting off into the cosmos. The journey through space was an unforgettable experience, with riders feeling as though they were truly traveling through the stars. The ride's success and popularity were a testament to its unique design and ability to transport riders to a world beyond their wildest dreams.

Santa's Rocket Ship was built and owned by Lloyd Laster of Tyler, TX. Laster started with one Rocket Ship built on a bus chassis in the 1950s. By the time he retired in 1974, Laster had a fleet of five vehicles that included three Santa's Rockets, a Rocket Sleigh, and a Space Sleigh. The vehicles traveled all over the southern and southwest parts of the country, taking Holiday Shoppers on joy rides while making appearances at shopping centers and malls. The Sears Department Store on Southern Avenue in Shreveport was one of Santa’s stops. Laster sold his business, complete with all five Christmas vehicles, to Bill Griffith, who lived in Wisconsin. Griffith operated the vehicles throughout the Midwest for several more years. Maintenance costs and the fuel for these huge old vehicles became too expensive so they were parked. Bill Siros' Auto Thrill Show purchased two of the vehicles. One of the other Christmas vehicles ended up in a Southern Wisconsin junk-

By: Mark Mangham and Mike Mangham

yard. The Jacobs were visiting Wisconsin when they came across the Rocket ship. They had already established Mukluk Land along the Alaska Highway as a roadside attraction, populated with all sorts of ephemera, including old mining equipment and a Studebaker M29 Weasel. They bought one of the Rocket Ships, and it sat at Mukluk Land unused until a few years ago. With a fresh coat of paint and a new leather interior, Santa’s Rocket Ship is now a feature attraction of Tok's annual Fourth of July parade. The story of Santa's Rocket Ship is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the joy and magic of the holiday season and reminds us of the importance of spreading joy and kindness to those around us. There is a power of imagination and the spirit of adventure in this story that serves as a timeless reminder of the true meaning of the holiday season and the importance of cherishing the moments we share with our loved ones.

Your One-Stop

Holiday Shopping & Dining Destination

1380 E 70TH Street Shreveport, LA 71105 SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

SB PETS

HOLIDAY Pet Safety Tips

BY HAILEY LAWSON

ith Christmas and the New Year just around the corner, it’s important to keep our furry friends safe and happy. Our homes will be filled with new and exciting sights, sounds, and smells, and while it may be thrilling for us, it can be overwhelming for our pets. Here are some pet safety tips to help keep your furry friend healthy and happy this holiday season. � Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your Christmas Tree When selecting the best spot for your Christmas tree, keep your furry friend in mind. Avoid placing

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it near their lookout window or favorite windowsill for taking a nap. Once you have found the ideal spot, make sure to securely anchor your tree. If you have a real tree, protect your pet from getting sick by covering the water basin with foil. Stagnant water from a real Christmas tree can be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause your pet to suffer from an upset stomach. � Preparing Your Home for Guests with Pets Carve out some playtime with your furry friend before guests arrive. Afterward, place them in a quiet back bedroom with their favorite toy. If you think your pet can be part of the fun, it’s important to remind your guests never to disturb a sleeping or eating animal. If you’re hosting guests in your home, always remind

them to keep their guest room doors closed and their suitcases zipped.

outdoor time to simply exercise and bathroom breaks, especially when the weather is particularly harsh.

� Keeping Your Pets Safe During Mealtime

� Preventing Your Pets from Unwrapping Gifts

Your pets should stick to their regular feeding schedule and be kept away from the dinner table and unattended plates of food. In addition, garbage can lids should be secured to prevent any mishaps. Also, be cautious when it comes to holiday cocktails - don’t leave unattended alcoholic beverages where pets can reach them.

Keep scented items like soaps, perfumes, candles, and tobacco products away from your pets’ reach. Store them in a safe place or consider investing in pet-safe wrapping paper and decorations. If you’ve already wrapped up a rawhide bone or a box of treats for your furry friend, keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overindulge.

� Potential Danger of Plants to Pets Be aware that holly and mistletoe plants are poisonous to pets. If your furry friend swallows holly berries or leaves, this can lead to drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and decreased activity. Mistletoe is also a concern as it can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular issues.

� Giving Pets as Gifts It’s important to choose a pet that matches the recipient’s lifestyle. Rather than gifting a pet outright, consider purchasing a gift certificate from a local shelter. This way, your loved one can choose the right pet when the time is right. � Caring for Your Pet in Cold Weather Remember that when the temperature drops, your pets should not be left outside for extended periods of time. Try to limit

� Choosing Pet Holiday Outfits When selecting a pet costume, make sure it allows your pet to move around freely and breathe comfortably. Avoid any costumes with loose parts that your pet could easily chew off and swallow. � Traveling with Pets during the Holidays If you’re bringing your pets along with you, make sure to take a test ride with them before the trip, especially if it’s their first time traveling. Speak with your veterinarian about safe anti-anxiety medication for your pet, particularly if they get car sick or have anxiety.

With a little planning ahead, both you and your pets can enjoy the holiday festivities. Remember, while the holidays are a time of celebration, they can pose a risk to our furry friends. Take some extra precautions this season to ensure a joyous Christmas and New Year. Happy Holidays! SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

SB INFLUENCERS

Embrace

You

Presley Arceneaux Miss Universal Miss By Seva May

he Universal Miss Pageant system is one of the newest and fastestgrowing national pageant systems. The pageant’s mission is to encourage girls to “Embrace You,” allowing contestants to be judged for who they are. This is precisely what attracted Presley Arceneaux and why she switched to this rapidly growing state and national competition. Over the years, most pageant systems have evolved and began to place a greater emphasis on community service, leadership, and personal development. While scholarship opportunities for contestants are always a plus, these changes reflect a broader shift in the pageant industry toward promoting diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment for women. The Universal Miss Pageant system has become a platform for young women to showcase their talents, leadership skills, and commitment to their communities, with the ultimate goal of empowering them to achieve their full potential. Presley entered the pageant encouraged to know that Universal Miss goes beyond the traditional beauty pageant format, focusing on advocacy for social causes and promoting positive change in society. By emphasizing advocacy and community service, the Universal Miss Pageant system provides a platform for young women to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. “I’m definitely excited and it’s something that I’ve grown to love very quickly. I did compete in a pageant system for six years and then I moved to Universal Miss, and I immediately fell in love. It captured my heart so incredibly fast, and this pageant system encourages girls to embrace their most authentic and confident selves, which is something that I love,” Presley said. Presley loves what she’s been able to

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do with her title. One of her favorite experiences was a trip to Houston, Texas where she talked to a group of third graders. “I got to introduce my platform for the very first time –“Speaking for the Silent” - where I encourage kids to speak up about their mental health and it is okay to tell adults what they are feeling. You hear about somebody committing suicide every other day and it’s usually a teenager. A few years ago, I was diagnosed with depression and when I came to creating my platform, I knew I wanted to choose something that was very personal - something that I went through and that I could share my experiences with other kids.” Presley would like to attend Louisiana State University and one day become a child psychologist. She wants to major in Clinical Psychology and Child Development and hopefully return to Shreveport to practice. By participating in the pageant, Presley was given the chance to step out of her comfort zone, try new things, and develop new skills. This led her to personal growth and self-discovery, as well as increased confidence and selfesteem. This has helped her to discover what she is passionate about and has expanded her interests. Through her pageant experience, Presley has learned to present herself with poise and grace and to feel comfortable in her own skin.

It has also played a role in developing her leadership and communication skills. When asked what she thought the most important aspect of being a good role model to young girls was, without hesitation, she replied, “Positivity.” Presley Arceneaux is a great role model that we are keeping our sights on. The Universal Miss Pageant is open to girls of all ages, and contestants are required to submit a registration form and fee. By empowering young women to become leaders and agents of change, the Universal Miss Pageant system is helping to create a more compassionate, equitable, and just society.

The

Neon Lights

SB INFLUENCERS

ARE Bright A

By: Ursula Brantley

child rarely knows for certain what they want to be when they grow up. It usually changes from day to day. Since his South Highlands days, Shreveport native and Broadway director Zhailon Levingston knew what he wanted out of life. He earnestly pursued his passion until those dreams became a reality. Levingston was exposed to the arts early in life and fell in love with theatre. His mother made sure he regularly experienced The Strand, he was active in school productions, and he was part of community theatre all over the SBC. Community theatres like Mahogany Ensemble Theatre, Peter Pan Players, Extensions of Excellence, The Shreveport Little Theatre, and Stage Center all helped nurture his creative spirit. “Being in community theatre, being in Caddo Parish Public Schools. I was lucky to go to schools that all had arts programs. They were in many ways the only reason I knew what many things were creatively”, says Levingston. He always loved the arts, but he never knew you could make a career from the arts. His 5th-grade year was a turning point in his young life. “That year, I learned what a dot.com was. I googled Broadway.com, and this whole world opened to me. From 5th grade on, I knew that’s where I wanted to work”. After graduating from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in Los Angeles, he obtained his equity card much sooner than anticipated. Levingston stepped out on faith and moved to New York with three suitcases and his last professional check. Levingston’s faith has been the foundation upon which his career has been built. Says Levingston, “I didn’t have a traditional path. I didn’t go through a pipeline that was set up for me to be a director, so all I had was my faith. Faith, for me, is the thing that gets you from the couch to the door. It doesn’t necessarily promise what’s going to be on the other side of the door, but it compels you to move closer to it. For many years in my career and still now, I’m moved by what compels me. I trust that on the other side of that, God is taking me to something that is for me”. When he first arrived in New York, he had no job and slept on a broken couch in the middle of a blizzard. Eventually, he found a job selling Broadway tickets on the street. Despite struggling and hustling, he was grateful to be able to pursue his dreams. It wasn’t long before doors began to open, and he knew that directing was his calling. In his words, to be someone who makes spaces happen and not just occupies

the spaces themselves. His campaign, Words on White, began as a way to contribute to the conversation of race in America after the deaths of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile. This guerillastyle theatre that he did in the streets, in the parks, outside of churches, and at schools became his backdoor into the industry. Words on White provided space for all types of individuals to have uncomfortable conversations and allowed him to meet other directors, actors, and writers whom Levingston held in high regard. Levingston’s extensive portfolio is incredibly impressive. He made his directorial debut on Broadway in 2021 as the resident director of Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. That same year, he made history as the youngest Black director on Broadway as the director of Chicken and Biscuits. His other credits include The Exonerated at Columbia Law School, Mother of Pearl at LaGuardia Performing Arts Center, and Hadestown in South Korea. Levingston is also a board member and cocreator of the Broadway Advocacy Coalition at Columbia and has worked with Idina Menzel’s A Broader Way Foundation. The first weekend in January 2023, he helped bring The Color Purple to life at Shreveport’s Marjorie Lyons Playhouse. For him, creating something for the community that molded him was a different type of gratitude and felt more personal than his Broadway debut. Levingston will be back in Shreveport in December to act in the production Top Dog, Underdog with Shreveport actor Michael Thomas. The production will open the first weekend of 2024 at the Marjorie Lyons Playhouse. For all the aspiring creatives, Zahilon’s advises, “It will always be hard. You’re always going to be learning. It’s always going to feel overwhelming, but if you’re supposed to do this, then this is what you have to do”. SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

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The Compass is a trademark of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2023 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. | DEC/JAN 23/24 Value Not FDIC or NCUA Insured | No Financial Institution SBMAG.NET Guarantee | May Lose 103

YOUNG AUTHORS d tiful Worl u a e B r u O honi Shah

So gnet entary Ma m le E s d n hla South Hig und me. l world aro fu ti u a e b e th nd and see s! I look arou y, s, even tree a n d a ce ry o e , v E me. to Animals l cia all very spe re a ok it in. y e to th e r w Fo world, is with. th to in me en blessed g of it all. When we ca uty our home has be ue meanin tr e a th e b d t n n ta ce rs and Fall. never unde The magnifi ut we will g, Summer, B n . ri ghout the it p S e v r, lo te , we mind throu ll, Win in ta is so th h o p e Yes, we care s, e k tree re, but just For all the l forever ca il w in trees. e w y, y. da we sa ds perched ir b n e v e s, We love it, iraffes, lion ved. so sweet. G , and it is lo r d e re v e su , a ls e a tr is anim rld. beautiful, it For all the eautiful wo The earth is ver take care of our b We will fore

Nothing-To -Do-Itis

Mckenna Perkins Eden Gardens Elementary

Magnet

I am bored. I have nothing to do. My mom says, “Just look at you. You have Nothing-To-Do-Itis! ” But, I don’t feel sick!! I need a plan, And make it quick! It feels like being sucked Down a hole of ideas, But I can’t choose one, I don’t know what it is! So I start to think Inside my brain, I could play my guitar Or build a track for a train. Then I went outside And found a ball. I bounced it high And off a wall. It was a lot of fun, And that’s for sure. My Nothing-To-Do-Itis Has definitely been cured!

104 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Shadows and Monsters

Lily May entary MagEden Gardens Elem net e at night, Laying in my bed lat ry tight, Shutting my eyes ve my wall, Seeing a shadow on tall! It’s something super my room, So many shadows in do! I know what I have to Close the windows, Turn off the lights, Shut the door, bite! So the monsters don’t

Dandelion

Deepthi Kolluru Caddo Middle Magnet

She stared at the divine flower told to disburden stress could glide away the troubles in life. With with the brisk breeze. Bu a puff of wind, the sorrow t why? Why was she sta and nding here, a troubled gir ousy and stress? The ans l, filled with jealwe r is tha t she was human. She would open her eye s every morning, dreadi ng to wake up, but the shi glimmering like diamonds ning sun would send out . Navigating around her rays, piles of clothes and pap Disguise the despair; hid ers, she’d wander off to e it. She must maintain get ready. a comforting aura. Throu work her hardest and not ghout the day, she’d be hing less, but no one is pressured to perfect. All her efforts com ments never recognized pared and turned down. but those around her hav Her achievee the irs praised and framed. The years ago starts to dwind confidence that was wit le, held on by a delicate hin her thread. The self-esteem away. Her work soon left that patched her togeth unfinished, afraid to be er soon faded judged and not be the bes brain. ‘Why must I do som t of the greatest. Thoug ething I love to impress hts crowded her others, why not just my cheered on and congratul self?’ ‘Why can’t I be the ated?’ Desire. Hopelessnes person who is s. Her sadness stored ins a drop. Silence became her ide would never spill out friend. People would mi side, not even sunderstand her quietness can be. She was a huma to be weakness, but she n with feelings of envy and is as brave as wa nt. But, we don’t want oth that we have flaws and yea ers to know that we are rn for things. We oursel not perfect; She was not a godly figu ves don’t want to accept re who knew the world our imperfections. finer than all, but a person dejected silence; tranqu . A person who would dis ility. Her eagerness for new cover a less things would arise and her hiding behind a mask for courage would recover. her true self could show. No more She was free of the miser y. And the flower? The flow waiting, waiting for ano ther stray soul to guide er lay there out the depths of the los t.

ords So ManyarW brough Amora Sc Magnet Caddo Middle , Everyone thinks rs.

othe Some more than lik w e a river. My thoughts flo y river rushes. m t When it’s quie . So Many Words u act. Think before yo I think. e us ca be t I don’t ac

say? What will they ink? th ey th ill What w do? ey th ill w t ha W my brain. I’m stuck inside

ing feeling This overwhelm y. driving me craz Of self-doubt is at?” “Should I say th t to talk to me. They don’t wan in I th k, … So many words em come out.

But none of th

The River Runs

Dawson C. Jones Youree Drive Middle School Advanced Placement Magnet The river runs like a steady dru m, A rhythmic beat, a constant hum . It flows and ebbs, it twists and turns, As it journeys on, it endlessly churns. The water glistens, a silver she en, A natural beauty, a stunning scene. It sparks and shines, it shimmer s and glows, As it dances and waltzes, it ebb s and flows. The riverbanks are a verdant green, A lush oasis, a tranquil scene. They say and rustle, they whi sper and sing, As the river flows by, a majesti c thing. The river runs like a melody, A harmonious tune, a sympho ny. It hums and sways, it pulses and beats, As it flows and glides, it never retreats. The river runs, a magnificent force, A natural wonder, a glorious source. It flows and ebbs, it twists and turns, As it journeys on, it endlessly churns. SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

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Life of a Lincoln Lily Bodily Caddo Magnet High I flipped the coin once in the air. Usually they glint at the peak of the arc, but this one didn’t. It had seen too many days, Been rubbed by too many fingers, To have that coppery shine. Peering closely underneath Lincoln’s presidential chin, The numbers 1913 were barely discernible. For 110 years, this penny had been handed back and forth, Store to mother, Child to fountain, Man to dust. Maybe it was the first addition to an eager child’s piggy bank, Taken out prematurely to buy a video game or a shiny red bike. Maybe it had collected dust for 50 years in a moldy drawer or underneath a couch, Witnessing a child’s first step, Broken wrist, And bag packed for college. Maybe it sat in the breast pocket of a tear streaked soldier sprinting across a beach, Who was praying to make it home To a lovely lady Who had sent him a penny in the mail. Was it used to scratch the winning lottery number, The one cent piece discarded for a million dollar prize? This penny had more pages than a textbook, Filled with intriguing stories that will never be told. My mother had always told me wheat pennies were special, and now I see why.

Volleyball Khloe Murray School Captain Shreve High The ball soars high Above the net it flies e Players jump and div bright Their passion burning eir faces Sweat drips down th ery point As they battle for ev The thrill of the game toes Keeps them on their graceful Their movements are ct sync Their bodies in perfe d spike As they bump, set, an strength With every ounce of ll hitting The sound of the ba rough the gym The ground echoes th fill the air Cheers and screams its climax As the game reaches int is won And when the final po lebration The team erupts in ce determination Their hard work and t victory Leading them to swee power and skill Volleyball, a game of d perseverance Where teamwork an ess. Are the keys to succ

106 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

Forgotten Memories Eli Griffin C.E. Byrd High Scho ol Soft and warm, a fai thful friend, Once treasured, now set aside. A childhood compan ion until the end, A stuffed animal by our side. Through tears and lau ghter, joy and pain, They held our secrets, shared our dreams. But as we grow, we leave them in the rain, Forgotten, or so it se ems.

But do not underestim ate their worth, For they held a piece of our heart. Though outgrown, th ey hold our mirth, And memories that will never depart.

So hold on tight to th ose you love, For they may be gone before you know. And though you ma y outgrow a stuffed dove, Its memories will for ever glow. So let us cherish them once more, For they were there through it all. Our childhood stuffe d animals, Who stood with us, tall

vivors. The couple, who lost contact in 1942, reconnected years later in London. This story is of their journey back to their homeland after escaping the ghetto walls 40 years prior. Edelman’s short novel is the story of Jascha and Lilka, two Jews who fell in love while housed in the squalor of the Warsaw ghetto. In July 1942, the Nazis began mass transports from Warsaw to Treblinka where around 900,000 human beings met their fate in a short amount of time. The couple escaped the ghetto separately and assumed the other didn’t survive until a chance meeting in London in June 1949. Jascha, who wrote his experiences down on butcher’s paper, became a world-renowned author and speaker after the publication of his memoir The Way Down. After 40 years, Jascha received a letter asking him to return to his homeland to give a reading to current residents. During their trip back to Poland, Jascha and Lilka find that nothing is the same. They also discover that after all these years there are still many things they’ve never shared with one another. By Ursula Brantley

Book

The graceful composition of Edelman’s soul piercing accounts allows the reader to feel merely a mustard seed of the anguish and grief that these individuals endured and continue to endure decades after liberation. Her picturesque imagery of prewar Warsaw, wartime Warsaw, and Post-war Warsaw display the drastic abduction of vitality from an entire country and its inhabitants. Edelman’s novel explores how the effects of trauma truly last a lifetime. Though liberation gave survivors freedom, it didn’t bring the nightmares to an end. The journey back to Poland gave them time to reflect on what was, what is, and grants them the opportunity to speak freely on moments they’ve never dared to be vocal about. Regardless of how some may think or feel, there’s no denying that the Holocaust took a toll on generations. Its survivors and their descendants are a testament to the Nazis failed attempt to eradicate an entire race of innocents and the resilience of those still standing. SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24 107

REVIEW The German occupation of Poland in 1939 marked the beginning of hell on earth for over half a million Jewish residents in and around Warsaw. From October 1939 until the end of the Warsaw Uprising in May 1943, thousands upon thousands of men, women, and children died in the ghetto or were sent to their deaths at nearby camps Treblinka, Sobibor, and Belzac. Those who were able to escape the walls of the ghetto continued to live in trepidation as they trekked to safer areas. Gwen Edelman’s The Train To Warsaw is the tale of two Warsaw ghetto sur-

SB HOW TO

Christmas Safety

t our house, the holidays mean sitting down with a cup of hot chocolate and watching Chevy Chases’ “Christmas Vacation. Not only is it funny every time we play the movie, but it serves as a reminder of how important safety is when decorating your home for the holidays. Lighting can pose significant electrical hazards, both indoors and outdoors. Faulty or damaged Christmas lights can lead to short circuits, electrical shock, and fire hazards. Faulty wiring, overheating, and overloaded electrical outlets can all contribute to the risk of fire hazards. To prevent these hazards, individuals should inspect their Christmas lights for missing or broken bulbs and fix any busted string lights. It is also important to use the appropriate ladder. Using verified lighting and appropriate outdoor outlets can help support the weight of outdoor lights and prevent electrical shock and fire hazards. Additionally, using heavy-duty extension cords listed for outdoor use can also help prevent electrical hazards. Look for lights that come with UL Safety Certification, indicating that the lights have been safety tested. Individuals should also avoid using electric lights on a metal tree and ensure that the lights are not overloaded or overheating. Proper electrical outlets and extension cords are crucial for indoor Christmas lighting safety. Always use extension cords that are rated for indoor use and in good condition. Avoid using damaged or frayed cords, and make sure that cords are not pinched or twisted. It's also important to avoid using too many lights on a single circuit, which can cause the circuit to overload and trip the breaker. The Consumer Products Safety Commission warns against using indoor lights outside, as they may not be designed to withstand the elements. Using indoor lights outside is a violation of electrical safety codes. Indoor lights may not be sealed for the out-

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doors and can pose a fire hazard if exposed to moisture. Proper installation and anchoring of outdoor Christmas lights is also essential for safety. Lights should be securely anchored to prevent them from falling or becoming dislodged during inclement weather. When hanging lights on the roof, make sure to use a secure ladder and have three points of contact at all times. Consider using plastic clips instead of nails or staples to hang lights on the roof, as these can damage the wiring and create a fire hazard. Keeping outdoor Christmas lights away from water sources is another important safety consideration. Lights should be plugged into an outdoor outlet that is protected from rain and moisture. If using extension cords, make sure they are rated for outdoor use and are not exposed to standing water. Floodlights, halogen lights, and other high-powered lights should also be kept away from anything that could catch fire, as they can become very hot. In addition to never letting “your cousin Eddie” empty his RV camper’s port-a-potty into the street drainage system, one of the most important Christmas safety tips is to turn off all lights before going to sleep or leaving the house. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires, as well as save energy. It is advisable to use a timer to automatically turn off the lights at a specific time each night, ensuring that they are not left on for an extended period. Keep flammable materials away from Christmas lights. This includes curtains, paper, dry foliage, and other combustible materials, both indoors and outdoors. Proper storage of lights after the holidays is also necessary for Christmas lighting safety. Individuals should store all indoor and outdoor Christmas lights in a well-sealed container to prevent water damage and rodent access. Before storing the lights, individuals should check all of their lights, especially older ones, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed, or exposed wires, and other potential hazards. By taking the time to store and inspect their lights properly, individuals can ensure that they are safe to use for the next holiday season.

FULL

STREAM

O BY SEVA MAY

ne of the topics we are focusing on in this issue of SB is the selection we are fortunate to have in private school education. There are over a dozen schools, not counting preschools, in Shreveport-Bossier. I looked at their websites and found that most have a common denominator. STREAM. Most of you will know what this acronym stands for. I was only vaguely familiar with STREAM because I’m old, and my children are grown. If the acronym was being used when they were in school, I wasn’t aware of it. This is for grandparents and parents who might like to know more about this curriculum being taught to our children today. I learned from Julie Andrews that the best place to start is at the very beginning. A warning before you begin reading: you are going to be inundated with acronyms throughout this abbreviated history. Let’s begin with the early STEM years, which trace back to the Morrill Act of 1862. STEM combines the science, tech-

AHEAD

nology, engineering, and mathematics curriculum. The Morrill Act created land grant universities to support agricultural science. Over the course of time, STEM training expanded to the workforce. By the 1950s, we witnessed great technological advances as we entered the Cold War, the space race with Russia, and President Eisenhower’s inauguration of NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration). This marked a heightened interest in science education. As we entered the 21st century, it was glaringly clear that U.S. students’ achievements were lagging behind other industrialized countries. In 2001, the National Science Foundation (NSF) decided to address the situation by creating the first form of the acronym for science, math, engineering, and technology, SMET, which was wisely reordered to spell STEM. This was a good beginning as state after state began acquiring public and private grants that supported STEM education. That same year, the NCLB Act (No Child Left Behind – don’t you love all these acronyms?) passed. With this act, state-level standardSBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

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ized testing was implemented to ensure high academic standards. Still, our kids were falling behind other countries. In 2009, Obama established the Educate to Innovate Initiative (no acronym) with the goal of moving to the top of the pack in science and math achievement. Federal funding was approved for STEM education and for the training of STEM teachers. The STEM Education Act of 2015 added computer science to the curriculum, which resulted in more teacher training. Congress also passed ESSA (Every Student Succeeds Act), replacing NCLB. It also modified the use of standardized tests while expanding the federal government’s role in public education. According to STE(A)M Truck, an Atlanta-based education nonprofit organization, as the U.S. developed more STEM-related job opportunities, “STEM occupations doubled the rate of other occupations.” With that came higher salaries. Stem workers have played an indispensable part in the growth and stability of the U.S. economy. If you noticed the (A) in the organization’s name, you are correct in understanding that this was added to the original STEM. STEAM is a progression representing the additional element of art in the curriculum. Developing critical thinking skills is necessary, but adding art to the equation helps kids develop a creative mindset. An arts education makes learning fun. “Incorporating the A in STEAM – art – brings in personal expression, empathy, meaning-making, and the purpose of what you’re learning,” explains Dr. Kristin Cook, associate dean of Bellarmine’s Annsley Frazier Thornton School of Education in Louisville, Kentucky. “It’s the humanizing piece of transdisciplinary and interdisciplinary instruction.” It’s interesting to find data that shows the benefits of incorporating arts into a student’s curriculum. Research indicates that students score better on standardized tests when active in the arts. By adding a focus on the arts and infusing all five disciplines in a creative way, kids are more accomplished and can use both sides of their brains to solve almost any problem they face. The STEAM framework connects the dots between disciplines “in order to encourage higher levels of creativity and effectiveness when it comes to problem-solving” (Steamtruck.org). This better prepares students to work in STEAM-related occupations, predicted to grow by 8.8% between now and 2028. As the world becomes increasingly complex and interconnected, these curriculums offer a valuable approach to education that prepares students for success in the 21st century. High-performing nations have well-developed curricula concentrating on 21st-century skills, including inquiry processes, problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. The National

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Education Association breaks these skills into four primary areas necessary for success in the 21st century: critical thinking and problem-solving, communication, collaboration, creativity, and innovation. Therefore, there is a need to focus on core content knowledge and interdisciplinary processes to advance STEM education. STREAM is a variant of STEM, which includes the Arts and Reading. It stands for Science, Technology, Reading and wRiting, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics [3]. It is worth noting that there is some overlap between STEAM and STREAM. However, there is no consensus on what the exact acronym should be, as different schools and institutions adopt different variations depending on their specific educational goals and priorities. For example, many faith-based schools have used the “R” to represent religion and integrate religious themes into the curriculum. Regardless of which acronym is used, the goal remains the same - to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for various careers in an increasingly complex and technology-driven world. So, now you have the evolution of this teaching method. The question remains: is it being utilized in our public and private school systems? Have the teachers who are employing “relevant integration of STEM concepts” been fully trained to do so? To the older generation of educators, STEAM is often poorly defined, with varying levels of implementation. It can be difficult to implement, with teachers reporting challenges with, among other things, collaboration across disciplines, increased workload, and understanding STEAM integration. In 2016, Caddo Parish Public Schools partnered with Discovery Education, the leading provider of digital content and professional development for K-12 classrooms, to launch Caddo Parish Schools and Discovery Education launched Re-Imagine Caddo: The Plan for Excellence. The goal of the iLearn initiative was to build a strong culture of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) districtwide. Several of our Private Schools offer STREAM, most beginning in pre-kindergarten. St. John Berchmans Catholic School has a curriculum “rooted in STREAM that exposes students to many skills that are highly valuable.” St. Joseph Catholic School integrates technology into each classroom by utilizing state-ofthe-art interactive whiteboards and a 1:1 iPad plan. Integrated STREAM and Technology classes have fully equipped labs, which allow students to experience education with 3D virtual tours, robotics, digital citizenship, online safety, and keyboarding. Students at Southfield School begin visiting the STEAM science lab as early as kindergarten. Beginning in the 2016-2017 school year, schools integrated Discovery Education’s Science Techbook (Grades K-12), Social Studies Techbook (Grades 6-8) and Math Techbook (Grades 6-12) into classroom instruction. In addition, 44 Caddo educators helped develop the district’s culture of STEM education by participating in Discovery Education’s STEM Leader Corps, a six-year professional learning program that develops and nurtures teachers and administrators as they build a culture of STEM teaching and learning in their school system. Discovery Education’s STEM Leader Corps offered Caddo Parish educators professional development opportunities, job-embed-

ded instructional coaching, and administrative leadership support. Through their engagement in the program, educators developed high-quality STEM lessons, transdisciplinary units, and leadership skills to grow a culture of STEM teaching and learning in their school system. Discovery Education experts worked closely with these teacher-leaders to establish ‘learning lab’ classrooms in their schools. These classrooms provided opportunities for colleagues to observe and collaborate on the instructional strategies demonstrated and modeled in the “learning lab” so they could apply similar teaching strategies in their own classrooms and share with their peers district wide. “Here at Centenary, our elementary and secondary education majors are learning how to infuse content areas across the STEAM subject areas. There are numerous opportunities for teachers to make connections across curriculum content,” says Terrie Johnson, Education Department Chair and Assistant Professor. “A curriculum labeled STREAM is a very project-based, problem-solving curriculum that involves reading, writing, listening, and speaking.” She goes on to say that every school offers the same thing. It’s just more individualized. You can teach the same content every year, but you don’t teach it the same way every year. Students change, they learn differently, and the culture of the class changes from one year to the next. “Teachers become experts at creating that culture of learning that allows students to flourish. There are overarching standards that guide our work at every grade level in every content area.” Ironically (or perhaps it was Kismet), while I was visiting Terrie Johnson, I was given a flyer for the inaugural FULL STEAM AHEAD Educator Symposium. (yes, the event title was too good not to borrow for this story) This exciting new event will be hosted by Centenary College of Louisiana’s Department of Education and Center for Teaching and Learning. The symposium will provide professional development and networking opportunities. By bringing together educators from across disciplines and grade levels, Centenary’s objective is to showcase innovative teaching strategies and cutting-edge research that inspires new inquiry and ideas. FULL STEAM AHEAD will be held Friday, February 9, 2024, with a Thursday evening reception on February 8, 2024, at Meadows Museum of Art on the Centenary College Campus. The symposium will include: •

Workshops (75 minutes) provide an interactive and immersive learning experience. Attendees actively participate and engage in hands-on activities, guided by facilitators. Joint proposals welcome.

•

Make-and-Take (75 minutes) sessions offer participants the opportunity to engage in creative learning activities. Attendees not only experience these activities but also leave with all the necessary materials and information to replicate them in their own classrooms or work environments.

•

Individual presentations (20 minutes) provide a platform for researchers, experts, or thought leaders to share their knowledge, insights, and findings with a wider audience. Individual presentations may be grouped by topic on the conference schedule. SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

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•

Panel discussions (75 minutes) assemble multiple presenters to engage in a dynamic conversation centered around a specific topic or theme. Poster presentations are visual displays of research, projects, or ideas. Presenters submit a description of their work in advance and bring a poster to the conference for display.

Everyone is welcome to attend, especially K-12 and college/university educators who teach or are interested in STEAM, future teachers, teacher educators, administrators who support teachers, community leaders who support teachers, and professional development providers. As the Center for Innovation and Education explains, “STEAM engages students in learning. Many students have greater aptitude and affinity for either arts and humanities or mathematics and science. STEAM education, with its integrated and holistic approach, helps students conceptualize these disciplines as parts of a greater whole. Rather than feeling alienated or tuned out of certain subjects, they can collaborate with others to solve prob-

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lems and see subjects they struggle with in a different way. STEAM also taps into children’s natural curiosity and creativity. If you’ve ever tried to find answers to a long series of questions asked by a child, you know how inquisitive they are about the world around them! STEAM lessons focus on deep questioning and finding novel solutions rather than memorizing standard facts and figures that can easily be “Googled.” * Here’s an acronym I made up that puts a button on this piece – STEP. Start Them Early Parents. Every parent should take a deep interest in their child’s education from an early age. Our educators are doing their part. It’s time we STEPped up. *Center for Innovation and Education, a division of Space Foundation, is a lifelong learning platform for the global space ecosystem that delivers workforce development and economic opportunity for students, teachers, entrepreneurs, and professionals via programs offered digitally worldwide or at Discovery Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Private

School

Guide

here your child goes to school should be one of the most important decisions you make. Our guide will help you determine which school to consider. We highly recommend a personal visit and a tour of your top picks to get a better sense of which school fits your child’s needs. WARNING: THEY ARE ALL SUPERIOR SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

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Educating

Mid 2s/Young 3's - 8th Grade

Excellent Academics • Gifted Program Small Class Sizes • Academic Support Cutting Edge Technology • Bible Daily, Chapel Weekly Academy for the Arts • Highly Qualified Teachers Extra-curricular activities: Basketball, Baseball, Tennis, Cross Country, Golf, Volleyball, Student Council, Patriot Promise, Destination Imagination, NJHS, FCA, and much more! Accredited by Cognia

January 23, 24, & 25 9AM - 1PM Come & Go Tours

869-2361 533 OCKLEY DRIVE SHREVEPORT, LA WWW.FBCSCHOOL.ORG

At First Baptist Church School, we are rooted in tradition, led by God, inspired by innovation. FBCS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national and ethnic origin in the administration of our | DEC/JAN 23/24 educational policies, admissionsSBMAG.NET policies, scholarship, athletic, or other school-administered programs.

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Come see where it all begins. Please join us for our Open House events!

01 DEC

MIDDLE SCHOOL DISCOVERY DAY 11am-12:45pm

14 DEC

KINDERGARTEN DISCOVERY DAY 8:15-9:45am

23 JAN

OPEN HOUSE (PS2-8TH GRADE) 9am-1pm & 5:30-6:30pm Scan to learn more & register!

Preschool 2 through 8th Grade Episcopal School 2785 Fairfield Ave. • Shreveport, LA 71104 SBMAG.NET | 121 318.221.7454 • stmarksschool.com DEC/JAN 23/24

Ascension Classical School

Call to schedule your ACS tour or Shadow Day! FIND US ON

www.ascensionclassicalschool.org 10540 Norris Ferry Road • Shreveport, LA 71106 • 318.946.8089

EXPERIENCE THE LOYOLA DIFFERENCE FOR YOURSELF! FUTURE FLYER FORUM FEBRUARY 1, 2024 | 5:30 P.M. @ CATHOLIC CENTER To schedule your personal tour, call 318-226-6285

921 JORDAN ST. • SHREVEPORT • 318.226.6283 122 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

www.loyolaprep.org

CATHEDRAL OF ST. JOHN BERCHMANS CATHOLIC SCHOOL In 2024, the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Catholic School will celebrate our 75th anniversary. Since 1949, St. John Berchmans Catholic School has been dedicated to the sacred ministry of providing quality education, anchored in the Roman Catholic tradition, which nurtures children in Catholic values and promotes excellence in education and a life of service. We live out our mission by preparing our students to become self-directed, life-long learners empowered by the Gospel message of Jesus Christ to live a life of virtue, integrity, and service to others. We were surprised and thrilled to learn that we once again won the Best Private School award by SB Magazine. Since this award is based on the number of votes an organization receives, it exemplifies the confidence of our parents and supporters that our school is thriving and growing. Our students are learning and growing in their faith. Classes are engaged and productive. Our teachers and staff are working together to empower our students, and the school itself is an exciting and uplifting place for our students. Thank you for your confidence and your belief in our school. We are striving to fulfill our mission to provide a quality education anchored in the Roman Catholic tradition.

WORD OF GOD ACADEMY Word of God Academy (WOGA), located in Shreveport, Louisiana, was founded in 2010 as a ministry of Word of God Ministries (WOGM) for the purpose of impacting lives for eternity through a biblically based and Christ-centered education. WOGA is a covenant school that seeks to disciple students and families through the deliberate and intentional use of the Word of God with a vision of “Equipping Future Generations for Life and Eternity.” As a ministry of the church, WOGA strives to make daily operations an extension of the message from the pulpit in classroom teaching and equipping the students' hearts, minds, and souls to advance the Kingdom. WOGA was first accredited in 2015 by AdvancED (Cognia) and completed the Crosswalk process with ACSI during the 2018-2019 school year. This team visit was WOGA's first full accreditation cycle with ACSI with continued dual accreditation with Cognia. From the inception of WOGA, the philosophy of

"Kingdom Education" (Shultz, 2013) has been a part of the vision of Senior Pastor at WOGM, James A. McMenis. With the knowledge of this inspiring philosophy, in 2014 Pastor James ministered a series at WOGM entitled "Kingdom Education.” The hiring of Tim Euler as the Head of School in 2017 helped grow the kingdom education vision at WOGA. In the last three school years, the focus at WOGA has been to establish biblical excellence in all areas of the academy and to create alignment between home, church, and school. During these three years, a fiveyear plan was established, ACSI accreditation was obtained, an online division of the school was added, athletic and art programming was implemented, and the focus on excellence in instruction and academics from a biblical worldview perspective has grown. The process of the REACH self-study revealed areas of growth needed at WOGA while continuing the school's focus on continuous school improvement.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL St. Joseph Catholic School has served the Shreveport-Bossier area for over 73 years. Founded in 1951 in the heart of the Broadmoor neighborhood, St. Joseph has remained an important ministry of our local church and community. Parents have the responsibility of serving as the primary educators of their children. When seeking a school to partner in this mission, parents seek an institution that mirrors and support the values they wish to instill in their children. At St. Joseph Catholic School, we believe that providing an excellent Catholic educational experience is paramount. Our students are taught the importance of living a life of virtue as found in the Gospels. We imitate the lives of those who have set an example as faithful leaders so that such a legacy may continue. It is important for the students entrusted to our care to receive an education that reflects these values. It is equally important to provide an avenue of academic success, preparing students for life’s adventures now and in the future. You are invited to find out more about St. Joseph Catholic School by attending our annual open house, which will be held on Wednesday, January 31st, 5:30 PM7:30 PM.

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ASCENSION CLASSICAL SCHOOL Being a faith-filled school that upholds family values aAscension Classical School, established in 2014, is celebrating its second year as a full k-8th grade program, and its first year with a 9th grade! The school has a unique Christian culture that shapes character, virtue, and intellectual excellence. In particular, classical education is a comprehensive plan that shapes the spirit of a student as preparation for all of life, not just a career. Ascension Classical School embraces the liberal arts and teaches the great works of literature, history, art, music, philosophy, math, and science. Through the great books and conversations with the past, a student learns how to think, not just what to think. More specifically, the pedagogy is shaped around a rigorous approach that incorporates music, physical education, and art. There is no wasted motion in classical education. A student at Ascension learns to love and appreciate truth and beauty in all their wonderful manifestations. This includes academic content, athletic programs, and many extracurricular activities. Ascension Classical School is offering grades K-10 in 2024-25, adding a grade each year. With God’s blessings, a full K-12 education will be in place by 2026.

LOYOLA COLLEGE PREP Since 1902, Loyola College Prep has remained one of the top private schools in the region. Guided by three pillars, Academic Excellence, Faith in Action, and Student Involvement, graduating students are able to distinguish themselves from their peers and call upon their Catholic education as they move forward in their life pursuits. Our students strive for excellence in everything they do and most especially in their academic success. The Flyer Faculty establishes a superior learning environment for all students, and with a 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio, teachers are able to meet their individual needs. Approximately 98% of Loyola students attend college after graduation. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities and organizations. These organizations are student-led and feature opportunities for students to give back to our community, grow closer to their peers, and have fun! From athletics and spirit groups to clubs, SGA, and Flyers Aiding 124 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

the Hungry (F.Ai.T.H.), our students are well-rounded and seek any chance to be more involved at school and in the community. As the region’s only Catholic private high school, we integrate faith and our Catholic identity into all we do. With weekly mass, religion courses for each grade, and giving back to our community through service hours, we are committed to our mission of creating men and women of conscience, character, and compassion, continuing the Jesuit Catholic tradition of discipline, academic excellence, student involvement, and faith in action for the Greater Glory of God.

ST. MARK'S CATHEDRAL SCHOOL Founded in 1953, St. Mark’s Cathedral School is a co-ed, Episcopal school serving children aged two through eighth grade. Our small class sizes allow teachers to give students the individualized attention they need to thrive. We offer vibrant classes that encourage intellectual curiosity and engage hands-on learning, including enrichments such as Christian education, science lab, art, music, global language, computer science, life skills, and more. Our students attend weekly chapel services and incorporate prayer into the daily routine. We educate the whole child and offer many opportunities for athletics, arts, service, community-building, and many co-curriculars. Through our vigorous curriculum, small class sizes, and student-centered approach, we help young people realize their potential and develop the confidence for lifelong success. Our graduates are routinely valedictorians, class officers, and community leaders, and have earned millions in scholarship offers and attended the most selective of colleges and universities. St. Mark’s is a ministry of St. Mark’s Cathedral in the Episcopal Diocese of Western Louisiana, is fully accredited by the Southwest Association of Episcopal Schools (SAES) and is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES).

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH SCHOOL First Baptist Church School is a Mid 2s/Young 3s through 8th grade school. Founded in 1970, FBCS has a rich tradition of providing an excellent aca-

demic program in a Christian environment. FBCS is accredited by the Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and Cognia. Our student enrollment is approximately 400 students, and we have a staff of over 50 highly qualified educators. First Baptist Church School's teachers seek to nurture the whole child, which includes their mental, physical, spiritual, and social well-being. Students are exposed to strong academics, diverse enrichment classes, and a variety of extracurricular activities. We use national standards and research-based curriculum to ensure our students receive a rigorous academic education. Teachers present instructional content in an engaging way so that students are able to retain and apply concepts at a high level. Technology is used to enhance instruction in age-appropriate ways. In our environment, students receive the individual attention they need to reach their full potential. Programs are available at FBCS for every type of learner. Students who test into the gifted program attend weekly, small-group sessions with our gifted teacher, while students with learning differences are eligible to participate in our Discovery Learning Lab with a certified language therapist. Our vision states: “First Baptist Church School strives to produce a generation of confident and self-directed lifelong learners with the strong academic discipline, technology skills, and personal faith necessary to realize their full potential in God’s world.” We are committed to living out this vision each day!

SOUTHFIELD SCHOOL Celebrating its 90th year, Southfield is the only school in North Louisiana accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest which requires the highest standards of educational excellence. With small class sizes, students learn and play in a joyful and respectful environment where faculty are empowered to develop each child’s individual strengths. At Southfield, nurture meets high expectations, and students grow in confidence as they learn to think independently, contribute to class discussions, ask questions, and listen carefully to others. Middle school students earn as many as four high school credits in algebra, geometry, and Spanish, and these advanced opportunities lead to success in high school and college. Our beautiful 12-acre campus is

home to an industry-leading and highly engaging preschool building. The STEAM building includes a well-equipped science and math lab with live animals and an outdoor garden. A spacious music room is replete with instruments and space for creative movement. SuzukiStrings practice rooms, an art studio and a small theater are housed here, as well. An additional, state-of-the-art, 200-seat theater showcases many of the 30 plus performing arts opportunities in which our students participate throughout their time at Southfield. A faculty and student favorite, our recently renovated Café provides made-fromscratch lunches every day. There are many qualities that set Southfield apart, but these attributes are best experienced in person.

CALVARY BAPTIST ACADEMY Calvary Baptist Academy is a K - 12 Christian School founded in 1970 by Calvary Baptist Church. Calvary Baptist Academy is a fully accredited K-12 private Christian school by the Louisiana State Department of Education and is also approved and recognized by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, better known as the BESE board. Calvary is also accredited by AdvancEd, formerly known as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Calvary Baptist Academy is an equal opportunity educational agency employer and does not discriminate or deny services on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap, and/or age. We emphasize academics and a steadfast determination to see your child grow in the Lord. Your child will attend daily Bible classes and weekly dynamic worship services, and will be challenged to walk a Christ-centered lifestyle. Physical education and athletics are also very important. Your child will enjoy the finest athletic facilities and the highest quality training available in their chosen sport. You can be assured that we are doing our very best to give your child the tools needed to succeed in every area of life. Calvary Baptist Church was established to connect people for Christ for life. The academy is one of many ministries of our great church. If you and your family are not regularly attending a local church we encourage you to do so. We believe that every family’s spiritual health depends on them being connected to a local church SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

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HER VOICE. HIS VISION. THEIR STORY. ON YOUR FEET! is the inspiring true story about heart, heritage and two people who believed in their talent—and each other—to become an international sensation: Gloria and Emilio Estefan. Now their story is an all-new exhilarating original musical winning the hearts of critics and audiences alike, with the Chicago Tribune declaring “IT’S A HIT!” and The New York Times cheering, “The very air in the room seems to vibrate in this undeniably crowd-pleasing musical!” ON YOUR FEET! features some of the most iconic songs of the past quarter-century, including “Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” “Conga,” “Get On Your Feet,” “Don’t Want To Lose You Now,” “1-2-3” and “Coming Out of the Dark.” Prepare to be on your feet from start to finish!

Friday, JANUARY 26, 2024 • 7:30 PM 126 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

thestrandtheatre.com (318) 226-8555

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White Christmas

Mojitos

Get into the festive spirit with White Christmas Mojitos! Whether you're hosting an intimate gathering or a lavish Christmas party, this drink is guaranteed to delight your guests and put everyone in the holiday mood! This winter version of the beloved summertime cocktail incorporates coconut milk and pomegranate arils, which create a magical holly-berries-on-snow effect. The classic ingredients of rum, mint, and lime are still present, but with a festive twist. The result is a delicious and refreshing drink that perfectly captures the holiday spirit. Don't be surprised when this becomes your new Christmas go-to.

INGREDIENTS Ǫ 3/4 cup of lime juice Ǫ 1/4 cup of packed mint leaves, plus more for garnish Ǫ 1/2 cup of sugar Ǫ 1/2 cup of white rum Ǫ 1/2 cup of coconut rum Ǫ 1 cup of canned coconut milk Ǫ Sparkling water Ǫ Pomegranate arils Ǫ White sanding sugar

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Begin by taking a larger pitcher and muddling the mint leaves in sugar and lime juice. 2. If you prefer, use a strainer to remove the muddled mint leaves. 3. Spread white sanding sugar onto a plate. Using a lemon, run the inside of each champagne flute’s rim, then dip it onto the sugar plate to coat the rim in sugar. 4. Fill each champagne flute halfway with ice and pour the coconut rum mixture until 3/4 full. 5. Add sparkling water to each glass, garnish with mint leaves and pomegranate arils, and enjoy your delicious, refreshing cocktail!

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Cranberry

Pomegranate

Sparklers Be sure to treat yourself this holiday season with a glass or two of festive Cranberry Pomegranate Prosecco Sparklers - perfect for New Year's Eve or New Year's Day! These sparklers are simple yet fun, with a beautiful ombre red at the bottom of the glass. All you need is a quick pomegranate and cranberry simple syrup, prosecco, and a garnish to enjoy. These sparklers also make for a delightful addition to your midnight toast! Wishing you all a Happy New Year!

INGREDIENTS Ǫ 1/2 cup pomegranate juice Ǫ 1/2 cup white sugar Ǫ 1/2 cup fresh cranberries Ǫ 1 bottle Prosecco Ǫ Sprigs of fresh mint Ǫ Pomegranate seeds Ǫ Red sanding sugar

INSTRUCTIONS 1. To make the cranberry pomegranate simple syrup, bring pomegranate juice and sugar to a boil in a small pot, stirring frequently. After that, add cranberries and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, strain out the cranberries, and allow the syrup to cool completely. 2. Spread sanding sugar onto a plate. Using a lemon, run the inside of each champagne flute’s rim, then dip it onto the sugar plate to coat the rim in sugar. 3. Add 1 to 1/2 teaspoons of the cranberry pomegranate simple syrup to each champagne flute. Top with Prosecco, garnish with a fresh mint sprig, and pomegranate seeds. Enjoy!

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THE TEACHER'S LOUNGE

BUILDING BRIDGES “ A

ONE STUDENT AT A TIME

By Elaine Pool

wish is something you would like to see. A dream is something you would work hard for. A plan is the bridge between a wish and a dream. Consistent execution is the bridge between your dream and reality.” When there’s an educator who functions under philosophies like these, you know you’ve got a winner. Dr. Bill Ray is an educator (he dislikes the title teacher) at Word of God Academy and this month’s private school Educator of the Month. He works under the mindset that he is in the classroom not only to impart knowledge but also to get his high-school students ready for the “real world.” To that end, his subjects include Senior Math, also called consumer math. He wants his students to be serious about learning because they are “practicing to be adults.”

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Part of Bill’s goal as an instructor is never to let his students fail so badly, they can’t recover. He wants them to have a return path to excellence. He believes that giving kids second chances can literally transform their lives. His previous experience was as an Assistant Professor at Louisiana Tech University while simultaneously achieving his Doctor of Engineering at La. Tech. He spent 28 years at La. Tech, retired from there, and moved straight to Word of God Academy. Bill teaches everything math: Algebra, Senior Math, Physics, and Computer Programming. He says, “Algebra is my hammer; I still have my math.” Bill is most proud of his “A/B or retry” policy, allowing students to retake a test until they achieve at least a “B” on it. He says, “That way, they master the knowledge.” He related a story of one of his university students who struggled for several years but never gave up. Upon graduation, the student brought his parents to meet Bill, telling them, “This is Dr. Ray. He’s the reason I graduated college.” Bill prefers to be called a professor: “I profess knowledge.” Bill likes to cite Dave Ramsey, author, and financial advisor, by saying, “Adults make a plan and follow the plan. Children do whatever feels good in the moment.” His best moments are when he sees his students’ faces when he has “stamped out the little fire of ignorance.”

He aims to get them ready for adulthood, for total independence financially. Bill is one who did not take the traditional path towards being a teacher. Upon receiving his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering, he worked in the private sector for eight years before beginning his journey as a college professor and doctoral student. His doctorate took him twelve years due to being a full-time Assistant Professor at La. Tech, all the while commuting from Shreveport on a daily basis. Upon retirement, he realized that it was almost impossible to be a new hire as an engineer at his age, so he came on board at Word of God Academy. What keeps Bill showing up? It’s not the money, of course; it’s the interactions with the kids. “I teach for the opportunity to annoy children. I get to make an impact on children. You can’t make someone learn something, but you can make them memorize something.” Bill’s words of advice to students include this: “Have fun but don’t take life seriously. Have fun but live on purpose; recognize you’re prepping for a future. You will never have such great opportunities; food, clothing, and shelter all are provided to you. All you have to do is prepare yourself for when they (parents) are not doing it for you.”

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

1700 Old Minden Rd Suite 175, Bossier City, LA • 318-747-7000 • pegandcofinejewelry.com SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

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THE TEACHER'S LOUNGE

Special NeedS CALL FOR A SPECIAL TEACHER

By Elaine Pool

he road to becoming a teacher is not always a straight one. Someone can head in one direction, focused on a certain major in college and graduate school, then make a U-turn into something completely different. That happened with Tonya King, SB Magazine’s public-school Educator of the Month. Tonya has a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in industrial/organizational psychology and counseling and had planned to be a psychologist or Human Resources specialist in the business world. Then she walked into a classroom and began teaching, and her life changed totally. She fell completely in love with her students and with teaching.

to Desoto Parish schools for a five-year stint in regular education, then returned to Caddo Parish. She is once again a Special Education teacher at Keithville Elementary/Middle School and loves her job. She loves Caddo Parish Schools because the school system is so family friendly. Her favorite part of teaching special needs students is being able to work more closely and individually with her students, have a deeper relationship with them, and see them blossom. She works hard to help them grow, with the goal of helping them move into classrooms with their peers. The hardest part of her job is having to say goodbye to them when they “age out” of her classroom. Wanting the best for them, however, Tonya knows they need to move on, so she makes sure they are ready.

Tonya started teaching at Sunset Acres Elementary School in Special Education and stayed there for five years. She moved

Teaching special-needs children isn’t always a piece of cake.

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Instruction must be differentiated for each student because the same teaching methods don’t always work for every student. And, as Tonya’s goal is to help them move toward regular education classrooms, she often has to say goodbye to children she is in love with. Because she loves them, she wants the best for them. Tonya has had to help students transition to more specialized classrooms when her class isn’t the best fit for them and their needs. Her hardest experience was working with a student who had a significant amount of Autism. While the child was intelligent, they were very emotionally volatile, and Tonya’s classroom wasn’t meeting their needs. She had to advocate for the child with parents and school personnel to help them get the correct and needed placement. Tonya works hard for and with her kids; she communicates with parents to ensure the lessons carry over and are reinforced at home. She must track and analyze test results to monitor progress and often creates Google slides of each lesson so the students can follow the lesson visually. She says, “The kids are what keeps me showing up to school. I love the kids!” Tonya has a super-bubbly personality; she can be goofy and have fun with her students, which elementary children really like and respond to. She tells her students that she loves them all day long to ensure that they hear that as much as possible, even if they don’t hear it at home a lot. The love Tonya shows her students is evident when watching her interact with them. The children respect her and the rules, follow directions to the best of their abilities, and come up for hugs frequently during the day. When asked to give advice to someone who might be considering a teaching career, Tonya suggested that they go and observe multiple public schools; not every school and grade level is the same. If Tonya could give advice to her 22-year-old self, she would tell

young Tonya to major in Education from the beginning rather than Psychology and save the student loans! That’s some serious wisdom from a voice of experience.

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SB NON-PROFIT PROFILE

WE RISE BY

Lifting OTHERS

“Over the past 25 years that the Gingerbread House has been serving our community, we have been blessed with amazing, caring individuals. Lauren is a great example. To me, she epitomizes servant leadership. It is a joy to be around someone with such a positive outlook and willingness to help anywhere and anytime needed. She is an integral part of the good work the Gingerbread House does on behalf of children who have endured difficult and often tragic experiences." - Jessica Milan Miller, Chief Executive Officer for Gingerbread House 134 DEC/JAN 23/24 | SBMAG.NET

auren Nunnery champions the cause of helping children who have been abused. An insurance agent for the Louisiana Farm Bureau, she has been an avid supporter of the Gingerbread House Children’s Advocacy Center for the past six years, and particularly since 2021, having assisted with almost every event the organization has hosted. The Board of Directors elected Lauren last January to help lead the Gingerbread House as Vice President. “Her kind and genuine words are always uplifting,” said one staff member. Another noted that Lauren loves surprising the staff with treats on particularly tough days. She is especially dedicated to helping with outreach— always among the first to sign up for volunteer work shifts to help teach others about the Gingerbread House and be active in promoting and supporting existing events or conceptualizing new ones. Jessica Milan Miller, Chief Executive Officer for Gingerbread House, added, “Over the past 25 years that the Gingerbread House has been serving our community, we have been blessed with amazing, caring individuals. Lauren is a great example. To me, she epitomizes servant leadership. It is a joy to be around someone with such a positive outlook and willingness to help anywhere and anytime needed. She is an integral part of the good work the Gingerbread House does on behalf of children who have endured difficult and often tragic experiences.”

What inspires Lauren Nunnery about Gingerbread House’s mission? The mission of the Gingerbread House is so inspiring to me because it gives children a voice in situations where they might not normally have one. When children are the victims of trauma, it’s the goal of the Gingerbread House to make sure their voices are heard, they are as comfortable as possible during the interview process, and they get the counseling that they need to heal. Every staff member approaches every case with the compassion and determination needed to make that child whole again. The better

question is, how could I not be inspired by the mission of this organization? In what ways do you personally gain purpose from the work you do for the Gingerbread House? The real work performed is by the staff members. These are people who have been educated and specially trained to know how to engage, counsel, and be a calming influence while also acquiring insight that is important for being an advocate for each child from a legal perspective. We, as a board, are here to support the decisions they make to better the lives of the children they serve. What they see, hear, and feel every day is unimaginable. Their work with each child is heroic. I hope they know they are backed by a board that believes in each and every one of them. This gives me purpose. What are some shorter- and longer-term goals that keep you passionate and motivated to continue working with them? The Gingerbread House is a nonprofit organization, so fundraising is vital to its existence. My short- and long-term goals are to continue to bring awareness to what they do for all the children they serve. I am so fulfilled when I can educate someone about their mission and lead them to support the cause in some way. If anyone would like to know more about what they do, meet the amazing people who do it, or support them in some way, I can definitely help with that. It would be my honor.

REPROGRAPHICS, ART/PHOTOGRAPHY PRINTS, BUSINESS CARDS, BANNERS, SCANNING & DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT AND MORE!

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SB GOOD TO KNOW SYLVANUS LY, DO, JOINS THE ORTHOPAEDIC CLINIC Sylvanus Ly, DO, has joined The Orthopaedic Clinic, part of the Willis-Knighton Physician Network. Dr. Ly, an expert in diagnostics, is a primary care sports medicine doctor for young patients around age 12 through adulthood. His role is to assess and diagnose musculoskeletal conditions. A graduate of Baylor University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in biology, Dr. Ly earned a Master of Arts in biomedical science and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona. He completed a family medicine residency at the University of Texas at Tyler Health Science Center, followed by specialty training through the nation’s largest primary care sports medicine fellowship at John Peter Smith Health Network in Fort Worth. He is boardcertified by the American Board of Family Medicine in both family medicine and sports medicine. Dr. Ly enjoys the outdoors, where he loves to walk, cycle, camp, hike, and rock climb. His other interests include playing music, cooking, and listening to podcasts and audiobooks. CHRISTUS HEALTH OPENS NEW EXPANDED CANCER CENTER CHRISTUS Health has expanded to give more patients access to high-quality care in Bossier through a new, expanded location of the CHRISTUS Cancer Center. Providing the only cancer care in Bossier City, the new clinic at 2541 Viking Drive in Bossier City is next door to the CHRISTUS Bossier Emergency Hospital and welcomes patients for oncology and hematology clinic visits, chemotherapy, and infusion therapy services. “This new location doubles our capacity in providing first-class cancer care to the patients in Bossier Parish and beyond,” said Jennifer Varnadore, administrator of oncology. “As the only provider of cancer care in Bossier, this expansion allows our providers to see more patients, cutting down wait times for appointments and therapy.” In addition to Bossier, a team of five medical oncologists and one radiation oncologist care for patients and their families at cancer clinics located at CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center in Shreveport and CHRISTUS Coushatta Health Care Center in Coushatta. CHRISTUS also partners

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with Natchitoches Regional Medical Center to bring oncology expertise and physician resources to their Cancer Center in Red River parish. “There is no need to travel out of town for cancer care,” said CHRISTUS Oncology Medical Director Dr. Scott Boniol. “We are very proud to be an accredited cancer center by the Commission on Cancer through the American College of Surgeons for over 30 years, which is a stamp of approval letting our community know CHRISTUS brings comprehensive, high-quality care.” The network of CHRISTUS Cancer Centers offers complete oncology and hematology services, radiation therapy, clinical trials, and cancer support groups, which are open to any patient in the community, not just those under care at CHRISTUS. CENTENARY COLLEGE OF LOUISIANA ANNOUNCES $50 MILLION CAPITAL CAMPAIGN TO SUPPORT NEW FACILITIES AND PROGRAMS Centenary College has announced a major funding initiative in advance of its 200th anniversary in 2025. President Christopher L. Holoman and distinguished guests introduced the $50 million Forward: The Campaign for Our Third Century during a special Homecoming Weekend event held at the College’s Hargrove Memorial Amphitheatre on Saturday, November 4. The Third Century Campaign will provide crucial support for advancing the sciences – including a $20 million renovation of the home of Centenary’s successful science programs, Mickle Hall – as well as resources for new academic and co-curricular programs, student scholarships, and ongoing operating expenses. “I am so excited about the people that are supporting our vision,” said Holoman during the announcement event. “There are many reasons to support Centenary – some of it is because of a wonderful experience, but also a simple recognition of how important Centenary is to our community. Everyone in our region has a Centenary connection - we are Shreveport-Bossier’s college. We are so excited to be part of this community, and we ask for your help to complete this amazing campaign to secure Centenary’s place in Shreveport and its place in its third century.” Holoman was joined by Dr. Donald A. Webb, president emeritus of Centenary, and Centenary alumna Donna Curtis ‘69, executive director of Shreveport Green, to highlight initiatives that have already been launched, such as the return of varsity football, as well as future projects such as the state-of-the-art transformation of Mickle Hall as the home of Centenary’s new School of Health Sciences. During the special event, Holoman announced that

Centenary has already raised $37 million of the $50 million campaign goal. Full details and updates on the Third Centenary Campaign are available at cclacampaign.com. WILLIS-KNIGHTON HEALTH SYSTEM RECEIVES WEBMD CHOICE AWARDS Willis-Knighton Health System has been named as a recipient of WebMD Choice Awards for 2023. WebMD, a national provider of health information, has recognized the health system with the WebMD Patient Choice Award and Medscape Provider Choice Award in oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, neurology, and gastroenterology. The WebMD Patient Choice Award identifies best-inclass health systems from a consumer perspective while the Medscape Physician Choice Award identifies best-in-class health systems from a physician perspective. The annual program ranks health systems in five specialties and 44 treatments/procedures across 28 markets and 112 subregions. Both awards are given to hospitals and health systems in the top 30% of patient or physician preferences in a local market. “This recognition by WebMD reflects our commitment to delivering the highest quality care for patients we are privileged to serve,” says Jaf Fielder, president and CEO of Willis-Knighton Health System. “We are honored to be trusted by patients and providers who know they can count on Willis-Knighton for best-in-class care when they need it most.” This is the third year of the WebMD Choice Awards, which is the only program of its kind. It is based solely on the perception of patients and providers, using up-to-date data from the past year. Patient and physician opinions are measured using a market-by-market surveying process. The WebMD Patient Choice Awards survey was conducted via a live poll randomly targeted to relevant condition areas and audiences at WebMD.com, and geo-targeted and mapped to ZIP codes to gather market specific information. The Physician Choice survey targeted a random subset of healthcare professionals in primary care and specialty areas via email, with geolocation data based on respondent National Provider Identifier (NPI)

numbers. All survey data is collected anonymously. ROBERTSON NAMED PRESIDENT & CEO OF CHRISTUS SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER HEALTH SYSTEM Casey Robertson has been appointed as the new president and CEO of the CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System. Robertson comes to Shreveport from the CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System in Longview, Texas, where he spent 18 months as chief operating officer. “I am very much looking forward to working with our great CHRISTUS Associates and the communities here in the Shreveport-Bossier area,” Robertson said. “This is such a great ministry that has done

SAI SRIDHAR MALIREDDY, MD HEMATOLOGY/ONCOLOGY

Board Certified, American Board of Internal Medicine

Connect with Dr. Malireddy: Willis-Knighton Hematology/Oncology A Department of Willis-Knighton Medical Center 2600 Kings Highway, Suite 300 Shreveport, LA 71103 318-212-8620 wkhs.com/cancer

Dr. Malireddy accepts new patients and most insurance plans.

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some amazing work in recent years, and I look forward to continuing the great work and growing our ministry.” Robertson brings nearly 20 years of health care administration, including more than ten years at the CEO level. Prior to joining CHRISTUS, he was CEO of Sadiant Inc., a Fort Worth-based clinical on-demand organization. His previous roles included CEO at Longview Regional Medical Center in Longview and Woodland Heights Medical Center in Lufkin, Texas. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in health care administration from Trinity University in San Antonio. “I cannot speak highly enough of the work that Casey has done in our Good Shepherd ministry,” said Chris Glenney, CHRISTUS senior vice president of Group Operations for Northeast Texas and North Louisiana. “I know that our future in Shreveport-Bossier under his leadership is very bright and that we will continue to provide excellent, faith-based care that is consistent with the values of CHRISTUS Health.” Robertson replaces Dr. Steen Trawick, who had served in the role since 2019. A nationwide search is also underway for a dedicated chief medical officer for the CHRISTUS ShreveportBossier Health System, who will focus on advancing clinical excellence and quality. THE LINCOLN AGENCY, THOMAS AND FARR, REEVES COON AND FUNDERBURG, AND PULLEYWHITE ANNOUNCE BRAND CHANGE TO FORTH INSURANCE Origin Bancorp, Inc. announces the rebranding of its insurance operations under the name Forth Insurance. Historically, Origin has conducted its insurance operations through The Lincoln Agency, Thomas and Farr, Reeves Coon and Funderburg, and Pulley-White. “The Lincoln Agency, Thomas and Farr, Reeves Coon and Funderburg, and Pulley-White have been in business for more than 280 years combined, and all have a reputation built on trust, responsiveness, and a deep commitment to customers,” said Drake Mills, chairman, president and CEO of Origin Bancorp, Inc. “These companies have always operated independently of Origin Bank, and that will continue under the new brand as they remain committed to serving the insurance needs of their customers and communities.” “All four of our companies have a long history of protecting what matters and guiding our customers every step of the journey,” said Randy Graham, president of Forth

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Insurance. “Our customers and communities will have the same trusted teams they have relied on for decades. Our name is changing, but we are not changing who we are. We look forward to being united under the Forth brand.” Collectively, the four insurance companies have more than 125 employees with offices throughout Louisiana and Texas. The agencies make up one of the largest independent providers in the state of Louisiana. Forth Insurance is a full-service insurance agency providing coverage for all personal and business needs. RARE TRIPLETS BORN AT WILLIS-KNIGHTON SOUTH THE CENTER FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH One in 1 million to 1 in 200 million. Those are the odds of having spontaneous triplets, the term used for naturally conceived identical triplets. Claire, Ella, and Lily Codaro were born to Haley and Matthew Cordaro on Aug. 28 at Willis-Knighton South, the Center for Women’s Health. The family also includes a 3-year-old sister, Kennedy. The triplets’ parents were surprised when the triplets were revealed during Haley’s week seven ultrasound visit. They are the first multiples on either side of the family. Haley was being cared for by Lise Huddleston, MD, of WK Pierremont OB-GYN Specialists when she went into labor at 31 weeks. Although her doctor was on vacation, she had the expertise of Dr. Huddleston’s partners, Doctors Ricky Paul and Erin Gullatt, who stepped in to supervise their birth.

LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT PHYSICIAN, DR. PETER SEIDENBERG, RECOGNIZED FOR REMARKABLE CONTRIBUTION TO FAMILY MEDICINE RESEARCH

RED RIVER BANK MAKES THE NATIONALLY RANKED 2023 “BEST BANKS TO WORK FOR” LIST

Red River The Association Bank has been of Departments of named one of Family Medicine the 2023 Best recently recognized Banks to Work Dr. Peter Seidenberg, For. Chair and Professor American of Family Medicine Banker has at LSU Health partnered Shreveport, for his role in shaping the with Best future of family Companies medicine research. Group to His leadership identify banks that excel at creating positive and supportive was credited with workplaces for employees. This year, 90 banks earned a expanding the spot in the Best Banks to Work For ranking based on an horizons of family anonymous employee survey and a thorough review of the medicine research benefits and perks offered. The full 2023 Best Banks to during a momentous gathering of 140 visionaries, Work For list is featured in Best Banks to Work For 2023 | innovators, and leaders in the field of family medicine at the National Family Medicine Research Summit in San American Banker. Francisco. “The banks recognized on this list are trying hard Summit Chair Dr. Irfan Asif expressed deep to create workplaces that employees want to join,” said appreciation for Dr. Seidenberg’s exceptional contributions during the summit. “We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to Dr. Peter Seidenberg for his invaluable input and dedication to serving on the Summit Planning Committee and defining our action steps and initiatives. It is through the commitment and expertise of individuals BADER ALOTAIBI, MD like Dr. Seidenberg that we can drive CARDIAC ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY Board Certified, American Board of Internal Medicine a brighter future for family medicine research. We eagerly anticipate his continued leadership in spearheading Connect with Dr. Alotaibi: these vital initiatives.” “The LSU Health Shreveport School Willis-Knighton Cardiology 2727 Hearne Ave., Suite 301 of Medicine is immensely proud of Dr. Shreveport, Louisiana 71103 Peter Seidenberg’s vital role in this historic summit and celebrates his 318-631-6400 dedication to advancing the frontiers wkcardiology.com of family medicine research. We look forward to supporting Dr. Seidenberg in his continued journey to bring about positive change in the field of family medicine,” stated David Lewis MD, MBA, Dr. Alotaibi accepts new patients and Dean of the LSU Health Shreveport most insurance plans. School of Medicine. SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

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Chana R. Schoenberger, Editor-in-Chief of American Banker. “Especially during this moment when companies are experiencing a shift in how, where, and how much employees work, banks are paying attention to how they can best retain their people.” Determining the best banks to work for involves a two-step process. The first consisted of evaluating each participating bank’s workplace policies, practices, and demographics. This part of the process was worth approximately 25% of the total evaluation. The second consisted of employee surveys aimed at assessing the experiences and attitudes of individual employees with respect to their workplace. This part of the process was

(Harpo in last season’s The Color Purple.) Topdog/Underdog, called “The greatest American play of the last 25 years” by The New York Times is the recipient of the 2002 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 2023 Tony® Award for Best Revival of a Play. A darkly comic fable of brotherly love and family identity, Topdog/Underdog tells the story of two brothers, Lincoln (Levingston) and Booth (Thomas), whose names were given to them as a joke by their father. Haunted by the past and their obsession with the street con game, three-card monte, the brothers come to learn the true nature of their history. This is for Mature Audiences.

worth approximately 75% of the total evaluation. The

PERFORMANCE DETAILS

combined scores determined the final ranking.

Where: Marjorie Lyons Playhouse at Centenary College

“Red River Bank was founded a quarter-of-a-century ago on the premise of ‘always doing the right thing;” said Blake Chatelain, president and CEO. “Today, more than ever, it’s important we take care of our people with a sincere, unique culture, no matter the growth. We want to have a culture that represents a high-performing smart bank while at the same time being friendly, compassionate, inclusive, and authentic. That starts from within.” To be considered for participation, banks had to have at least 50 employees working in the U.S. and have been in business for a minimum of one year. Best Companies Group managed the registration and survey process and analyzed the data to determine the final ranking. STAGE CENTER ANNOUNCES THEIR PRODUCTION OF SUZAN-LORI PARKS’ TOPDOG/UNDERDOG

Stage Center (SC) proudly announces the inaugural production of their 13th Mainstage season, Suzan-Lori Parks’ Topdog/Underdog, opening January 5, 2024, for a three-performance run at Marjorie Lyons Playhouse on the Centenary College Campus. Guest director Alex Hare (Broadway’s School of Rock and Side Show) guides our hometown hero (and historymaker for being the youngest black director to have a show play on Broadway) Zhailon Levingston, and Mikah Thomas

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When: 7:30 PM, Friday & Saturday, January 5 & 6 2:00 PM, Sunday, January 7 Tickets go on sale Monday, December 18 online at StageCenterLA.com or call/text (318) 218-9978 MondayFriday between noon-4:00 PM. Ticket Prices: $25 Adult / $20 Seniors/Military / $18 Student

Hours for M-Sat are 10-8 Lunch Specials Daily 11am - 3pm

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Thank you for voting our burgers as One of the Best Burgers in SB!

141 724 East Flournoy Lucas Rd • Shreveport, LA 71115 • 318. 797.0361 SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

SB EVENTS

DECEMBER

SECOND SATURDAY DOWNTOWN Venue: Downtown Development Authority Dates: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Saturday Time: 10 AM – 6 PM Info: www.downtownshreveport.com

3 STRANDS WINE FESTIVAL Venue: Festival Plaza Date: Saturday, December 2 Time: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Info: www.3strandswinefestival.com

LES BOUTIQUES DE NOEL

Venue: Shreveport Convention Center Dates: Thursday, November 30 - Saturday, December 1 Time: See website for more info Info: www.shreveportopera.org/opera-guild/

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS Venue: The Strand Theater Date: Friday, December 1 Time: 7:00 PM Info: www.thestrandtheatre.com

CHRISTMAS ON CADDO FIREWORKS FESTIVAL

LOUISIANA BOARDWALK HOLIDAY MARKET

Venue: Earl G. Williamson Park Date: December 2 Time: 3:30 PM to 8 PM Info: https://christmasoncaddofireworks.com

Venue: Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets Dates: Saturday, December 2 Time: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM Info: 903-393-9737

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THE CHER SHOW Venue: The Strand Theater Date: Wednesday, December 13 Time: 7:30 PM Info: www.thestrandtheatre.com

RALLY ON THE RED Venue: Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets & East Bank District Date: Friday, December 15 Time: See Facebook for more info Info: Facebook – Rally on the Red

A MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS Venue: Shreveport Common Date: December 16 Time: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Info: www.shrevearts.org

BELIEVE! LIGHTS THE NIGHT Venue: Shreveport Aquarium Date: December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 21, 22, & 23 Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Info: www.shreveportaquarium.com/believe

CHRISTMAS IN ROSELAND

BOSSIER HOLIDAY NIGHT MARKET Venue: Pierre Bossier Mall Date: Saturday, December 9 Time: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM Info: 903-393-9737

DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW Venue: BackAlley Community Theatre Date: Friday, Saturday, Sunday, December 8 through 17 Time: See website for more info Info: www.backalleygrandcane.com

Venue: American Rose Center Date: December 16 Time: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Info: www.rose.org/christmas-in-roseland

RADIANCE TECHNOLOGIES INDEPENDENCE BOWL Venue: Independence Stadium Date: Saturday, December 16 Time: See website for more info www.radiancetechnologiesindependencebowl.com Info:

TRY ERNEST’S “SPECIAL KENTUCKY BOURBON FLIGHT” “SERVING THE FINEST FOR OVER 60 YEARS!”

Live Entertainment Nightly

1601 SPRING STREET, SHREVEPORT 318.226.1325 ERNESTSORLEANS.COM SBMAG.NET | DEC/JAN 23/24

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SB EVENTS

JANUARY

SNO-PORT Venue: Sci-Port Discovery Center Dates: Friday, November 24 through Monday, January 29 Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Info: www.sci-port.org/snoport/

NEW YEAR’S DAY FIREWORKS

Venue: Windrush Park at Provenance Dates: Monday, January 1 Time: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Info: www.yourprovenance.com

GLOFESTS AT THE BAKOWSKI BRIDGE OF LIGHTS Venue: Riverview Park Date: Friday, January 5 Time: 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM Info:

www.shrevearts.org

SHREVEPORT MUDBUGS Venue: George’s Pond Hirsch Coliseum Date: Friday, January 5 Time: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Info: www.mudbugshockey.com

SHREVEPORT MUDBUGS Venue: Windrush Park at Provenance Date: Saturday, January 6 Time: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Info: www.mudbugshockey.com

SHREVEPORT SYMPHONY CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES Venue: First Baptist Church in Shreveport Dates: Sunday, January 7 Time: 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM Info: www.shreveportsymphony.com

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CANDLELIGHT: A TRIBUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT Venue: Scottish Rite Cathedral Date:

Thursday, January 18

Time:

8:30 PM

Info:

www.feverup.com

FIVE WOMEN WEARING THE SAME DRESS KING CAKES & COCKTAILS

Venue: Shreveport Little Theatre Dates: Friday, January 12 Time:

7:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Info:

www.shreveportlittletheatre.com

Venue: KREWE OF CENTAUR Date:

Thursday, January 18

Time:

6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Info:

www.eventbright.com

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Dear change seekers and book readers, As we approach the end of the year, I’m looking back on all we have accomplished together. Thanks to your kindness and generosity, you have enabled United Way to mail 60,000 books to children five and under through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, helping prepare our youngest students for kindergarten success. Unfortunately, more children still need your help, as that only covers 15% of children in our region.

teach parents the proper techniques to read with their child and provide them with helpful resource materials. Help us stay connected with parents of children enrolled in the program until they reach kindergarten by providing monthly activities that correspond with the book they will receive that month and community resources.

Thanks to a partnership with the Office of the Louisiana Governor, the state has agreed to cover half the book cost for the Imagination Library and open enrollment state-wide, reducing the sponsorship cost to only $35 per child for one year. Increasing enrollment for the Imagination Library is a pivotal step toward nurturing the love for reading in our children, but it also underscores the urgency of our fundraising efforts. We must raise nearly $600,000 to support the 33,000 children in our region who could benefit from this incredible program. Through the United Way Book Club, we hope to ensure that no child misses the opportunity to explore the world through books.

Today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders. Please give today to ensure more children have an equal opportunity for a brighter future Yours in service, LaToria W. Thomas United Way of Northwest Louisiana President & CEO

This year, when you donate to join the United VISIT UNITEDWAYNWLA.ORG OR SCAN Way Book Club, your impact will stretch THE QR CODE BELOW TO GIVE TODAY! further than ever before. Your gift will not only send books to children’s homes, but it will also… Provide a set of Imagination Library books to underserved pre-K classrooms, ensuring language and literacy development is occurring both in and out of school. Allow us to host parent workshops, where we will

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Christmas Gift Guide 2023

1. Moppet

Shoppe

What if there was a kid’s brand with the ability to brighten dreary days and make everything just a little bit more sparkly? We have found it! These fun dress-up pieces are the “cherry on top” that makes everything more memorable. This is why Super Smalls makes the best gift!

2. Peg & CO.

These 14k yellow gold diamond stackable bracelets from Peg & Co Fine Jewelry are the perfect accessory for everyone that loves a little extra sparkle!

3. Cuban Liquor

Makers Mark Private Select: Cuban Liquor personally selected the recipe of oak stave profiles which were introduced to the whiskey barrel, which imparts a unique flavor profile. Notes of maple, almond, rock candy, and vanilla.

4. Jolie Blonde

Gifts

Jolie Blonde Gifts has gifts that will make you feel merry and bright! From Christmas ornaments to wreaths and delectable treats, they have the best and most unique gifts this holiday season!

5. Give Me 3

The Jeweled 20oz Tumbler is a luxurious and stylish drinkware item that makes a statement wherever you go. Find this great item and much more at Give Me 3!

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6. 7.

6. Lee Michaels

Fine Jewelry

Diamond hoops: Find these amazing three-carat total weight diamond hoop earrings in 14K white gold at Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry.

7. Spa Concepts

The Lagoon Nebula Hair Cuff is a statement hair cuff featuring a limited-edition AVEDA x Iris van Herpen design. This cuff embeds itself seamlessly in hair to elevate your everyday updo. Explore Spa Concepts entire holiday collaboration with trailblazing couturier Iris van Herpen. Inspired by our planet, technology, and craftsmanship, every gift is a celebration of nature inside and out.

8. 9.

8. Lewis Gifts

100 Days of Scripture features 100, 4x4-inch scripture cards nestled in a versatile lucite box for displaying your cards either flat or vertically. Each card includes an Angel image on one side and a scripture verse on the other.

9. Sandy + Rizzo

For a unique gift, this holiday season, Sandy + Rizzo‘s art resin earrings are one-of-a-kind wearable art pieces.

10. Allison

10.

Rhymes Designs

Allison Rhymes Designs Beans Collection, 14k gold or sterling silver hand-beaded bracelets that will not turn. 24/7 wear for work, play, swim, and style!

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AND ANOTHER THING...

You want us to eat hamburgers, and we just got the Christmas cow? What are you, some kind of …” Dad hung up. They had pizza with black olives.

dder si U d e h

Dr. Pickles promised his children that the family would never eat holiday lamb, ox or ass, at least not until the Christmas cow is stolen, stored for the off-season, or felled by a hunter with an inflatable gun. God bless us, everyone! Much like Dr. Pickles’ yard ornament, “cattle lowing” was as high up the food chain as I made it in any of the Christmas pageants, I was privileged to be in. Never got to be an angel or Joseph or a wise guy. Not even a shepherd. My dad, our pastor, said I just didn’t have the build for it. And you wonder why I’ve had problems… Being both from the South and Baptist, I’ve hit the daily double on Christmas pageants. Sometimes two and three a Yuletide season. Talk to me about physics or punk rock or fiber optics. But don’t talk to me about Christmas pageants. I know about Christmas pageants.

Christmas A dozen years ago, in chilly mid-December, a giant yard snow globe lay defeated and deflated, the victim of a vicious dog bite. This was tragic only because it was in the highly decorated yard of Dr. Pickles, my young friend who, along with Mrs. Pickles, had three children six and under. Christmas cheer hung in the balance. Dr. Pickles sized up the sad situation and came to a quick conclusion. The only hope: an emergency run to the Christmas ornaments store. All they had left in the blow-up department was a Christmas cow. No Santas. No Grinch. Not even a snowman. Just a blowup bovine. (And no, until then, I didn’t know they made those either.) Beggars can’t be choosers, so the cow was purchased and immediately aired up and thrown into the mix, joining the surviving snow globe, the bursting snowflakes, the lighted icicles, the shrub netting, the plastic Santa, the blinking deer, and a partridge in a pear tree. Looked like the NBC Holiday Special. A yard you could see from the space station. So, the next night, Dr. Pickles had to bring supper home. He called and asked if a fast-food burger would be OK. This not only confused his oldest son, but it also genuinely hurt him. “Dad,” he said over the phone, “we just got the Christmas cow.

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(Except I don’t know why they call them “pageants” instead of the more workmanlike “play” or “presentation.” Pageant? Will Mary show up in an evening gown instead of maternity wear? An angel in a two-piece? Will Little Drummer Boy play while our judges tabulate the final scores? We’ve got our hands full with the virgin birth, don’t you think? (let’s keep the rest of this thing simple.) Christmas plays are not immune to fumbles. If you can’t think on your feet, go stand over there with the lowing cattle. Case in point: a play a friend attended last Christmas, his precious granddaughter narrating. In the dark. A voice in the wilderness. With only a pen light. She was steady, and Mary was solid, unlike the shepherds and wise men, who started shuffling almost immediately. Girls are glue. Boys are shufflers. Note this in your next Christmas play. The best part came when her pen light died. Without missing a beat, she turned on her cell phone and read by its light. As her granddad said, “Talk about a light in Bethlehem!” A Christmas miracle! “Hark!” Bigtime! My favorite Christmas play moment: The first-grade couple was coming up the aisle, having rehearsed all week with the narrator reading, “Mary, who was great with child….” But … The translations were switched on game night. The narrator read, “Joseph went with Mary, his fiancée, who was pregnant.” Joseph stopped and, to Mary, his betrothed, screamed, very hurt and very unrehearsed, “Pregnant? You’re PREGNANT?!” Teddy Allen is an award-winning columnist and graduate of Louisiana Tech, where he works as a writer and broadcaster.

IN RIDGELAND

This holiday season, tackle all of your gift shopping with a weekend getaway to Ridgeland. Choose from 17 hotels, 150+ restaurants, and an array of shopping in this small vibrant town with big city vibes.

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR A GIFT GUIDE!

Book your next visit to Ridgeland at

www.visitridgeland.com/stay

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SCULP TED CABLE AVA I L A B L E AT

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