Greetings 1 Beloved Readers

Your SB Fashionista, Casey Craig, here! Summer is in full swing in the Deep South, and we are here for it! Summer is a state of mind. A season of champagne dreams and cabana wishes, independence and autonomy! Light fabrics, flashes of skin, and vibrant colors are just a few of the Summer 2023 ready-towear fashion trends we’re swooning over. On the runways, nostalgia reigned with cut-outs and low-rise resurgence; Barbiecore and hyperfemininity intensified; and Y2K nostalgia eccentricity has gone full throttle.

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As always, your SB Fashionista has scoured the runways and hottest fashion frequencies to bring this month’s stellar selections. Curate the chicest summer wardrobe refresh with these must-have staple pieces everyone will be pursuing. From uber-feminine to edgy indie punk sleaze to high-octane shine to sheer everything and anything in between, the sizzling runway collections from fashion’s heavy hitters showcased endless elevated everyday dressing in nostalgic styles.

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1. Neon and Color Blocking This summer will be all about the neon hues of the 80s! This look isn't for the faint of heart, so expect to turn heads everywhere. Lime green is the “it” color of the season. You’ll also see highlighter yellow everywhere. Hop on the neon trend with a vivid pink bikini. Bright fuchsias and oranges are being coupled together for bold statement dresses. Color blocking is a great way to mix and match your favorite neon colors, because *gasp* the best thing about neon colors is that they don't clash with each other.

2. All Things PINK!! Thanks to Summer of Barbie streetstyle spawned by the release of the Barbie movie, Barbiecore has reached cult status this season. Putting all things pink front and center once more, from hot pink hues and bright Fuchsia to softer pastel pinks and coral interpretations, all shades of pink have been featured en masse. So, if you invested last season, hold onto those key pink buys. Originally part of the “Dopamine Dressing” trend of mood-boosting brights, Fuchsia is the standout summer color of choice for all skin tones. We were overjoyed to see all things pink going so strongly. It’s giving main character energy!

3. Glistening Metallics From the disco days of Studio 54, metallics have been gaining major momentum, but recently, Silver has stolen the spotlight! Blame Beyonce for this mirror ball manifestation of glitz and glamour. To conquer the trend for summer, you can opt for a subtly of metallic thread or go all out with coated high impact lustrous liquid shine pieces, à la statement pieces on the runways. Slinky silver lame fabric dresses, blousy tops, bralettes, miniskirts, and pants are everywhere, so you can easily incorporate these shimmering eye-catching items into your summer wardrobe.

4. Lingerie as Outer Wear

Hot summer nights? Dress in less! Naturally more suited to the balmy summer season, lingerie as outerwear is a risqué fashion trend that fluctuates in popularity. This season, you can expect a more vintage-inspired take on the look. With striking lace-up ballet detailing and layered sheers, the look is softer and more feminine than previous interpretations. Elevate your slip dress with a sultry kitten heel and messy tousled updo for perfect party wear.

5. Sheer Splendor Seriously though, who doesn’t love a sheer moment during the warmest months of the year? This season, enjoy sheer sophistication without the stiffness in luxurious goddess inspired pieces that focus on cut, drape, and silhouette. The lovely thing about the shift in sheer trend this season is that they aren’t overbearing. Sheers are all about practicality and femininity, proving that you don’t need to bear it all to partake in this sultry trend. Sheer fabrics are the perfect way to show a little or a lot of skin this summer!

6. Angles & Asymmetry This season, skin is in, and summer is heavy on the peek-a-boo cutouts trend, from delightful dresses to eye-catching separates. To make the trend work for any body size and shape, choose flattering cutout placements around the mid-section or hips to show off your feminine curves. Many designers have been gravitating toward flowy, asymmetrical silhouettes for summer, opting for pieces that are a bit more unexpected and don’t feel overdone.

7. Silk trousers In case you haven’t heard, quiet luxury is very much in. This season marked the reinstatement of simplicity into our everyday wardrobes, proving pared-back elegance is the height of luxury. When styling these slinky high-waist trousers, experiment with bright, bold colors. Pair with a classy, tucked-in shell tank or fitted bralette with opened button-down shirt for a mix of grit and glamour, energy, and inspiration.

8. Cargo pockets It’s an interesting time for pockets, as everyone is talking about quiet luxury. The pocket offers up perhaps what is the greatest luxury of 2023: Being hands-free! My favorite new pocket has to be the AirPod pocket. Once strictly utilitarian, pockets have become one of the season’s most prominent decorative features. To snag this trendy look right off the runways, pair a sleek, bodyslimming top with roomy, low rise cargo pants. With these new multi-pocket options on tops and bottoms, who even needs a purse?

9. Low-rise Another blast from the past are low-rise pants and skirts, which are about to be everywhere. Try a classic straight-leg or taperedleg fit that has a slightly lower rise. Add a sturdy western boot and cropped duster for a night out dancing with friends. While you can easily work the look with an oversize cropped tee or fitted bodysuit to give it a more easygoing look, some are utilizing this fit to reveal embellished briefs and thong straps.

10. Motocross Hello, Moto! While leather is often associated with the colder months, lighter-weight, breathable options are great for your airy summer wardrobe. Warm-weather-leather trends fit in on the streets and lend a new take on Sports Luxe, the fashion trend for 2023 that guarantees you can look great and feel comfortable in one stylish step. While the silhouettes are sporty, the fabrics bring the luxe element for bold and directional looks. Pair your sporty separates with your favorite sneakers or give your look a touch of femininity alongside slide sandals and a clutch. Add heels to silky tracksuit trousers or cargo pants for a more elevated finish. You don't have to play the sport to look the part!

Honorable mention: Maxi Skirts, Body Jewelry, and Shoulder-Skimming Earrings, Head-to-Toe Denim.

Until next time!

Williams To Serve As Board Of Directors Chair For Leadingage Gulf States

Debra Williams, CPA, President, and CEO of The Glen, was named Chair of the board of directors of LeadingAge Gulf States for the 2023-2024 year. The Glen has been a part of LeadingAge Gulf States for 19 years, and Williams has been on the board for the past seven years, previously serving as Secretary/Treasurer.

Nationally, LeadingAge is an association of 5,000 nonprofits dedicated to expanding the world of possibilities for aging. As a member of the national organization, LeadingAge Gulf States envisions a long-term care system which offers accessible, affordable, high-quality, and innovative health care, housing, and community services for the senior populations of Louisiana and Mississippi.

“Serving as Board Chair of LeadingAge Gulf States helps The Glen become more connected with national and regional organizations which help the older population. Our regional affiliation with LeadingAge has widened our network providing great potential,” Williams said. “I am committed to furthering the association’s mission to represent the interests of its members — and the populations they serve — with integrity and dedication.”

BENSON A. GRIGSBY, MD, JOINS WK FAMILY MEDICINE RUSTON

Benson A. Grigsby, MD, has joined WK Family Medicine Ruston, part of the Willis-Knighton Physician Network. Dr. Grigsby practices family medicine, with special interest in burn and skin conditions.

A graduate of Louisiana State University Health Sciences CenterNew Orleans, Dr. Grigsby completed an internship and residency at Columbus Regional Hospital. He is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Throughout his medical career, he has tried to emulate the family practitioner who cared for him and his family growing up. “There was probably nothing he couldn’t do and didn’t do for us. (He) was what really inspired me to go into family medicine,” Dr. Grigsby says.

WK Family Medicine Ruston, located at 2916 N. Trenton St., accepts new patients and most insurance plans.

RED RIVER REVEL REVEALS OFFICIAL POSTER, CHASE ENTERTAINMENT STAGE LINEUP, AND SITE EXPANSION

The 47th Red River Revel Arts Festival returns September 30 – October 8, 2023, to Festival Plaza in Downtown Shreveport with an expanded festival footprint, electrifying Chase Entertainment Stage music lineup, and futuristic look with the official poster.

The Red River Revel and Shreveport based architect and sketch artist, Mike McSwain, collaborated on the official poster design for the 47th annual edition of the festival.

The artwork features the staple landmarks of Festival Plaza in an imaginative futuristic setting, with flying cars whizzing by ultramodern towers and festival goers milling about the grounds under massive transportation structures. “Mike McSwain is well-known for his architectural designs such as Sci-Port, Caddo Common Park, and developments all over the world, but he is also a gifted sketch artist.” said Logan Lewis, Executive Director of the Red River Revel. “He took this project and ran with it! There are several nods to the direction the Revel is headed this year and we are very pleased with how the artwork turned out.” A limited run of posters will be available during the 47th annual festival at the Souvenir Tower.

The music lineup for the Chase Entertainment Stage includes nationally touring artists such as Paul Cauthen, Eric Gales, Here Come the Mummies, Sophie B. Hawkins and more. The lineup also includes regional artists, both familiar and new to the festival, hailing from the Ark-La-Tex to New Orleans, Lafayette, Arkansas, and Tennessee. Additionally, the festival will feature a unique tribute to Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers with a secret roster of national, regional, and local contributing artists to be announced over the summer. “This lineup was the most challenging we’ve put together by far and we’re really proud of it,” Lewis said. “Last year’s lineup was some new and a lot of nostalgia, and this year’s lineup is the direct opposite. Approximately half of the artists on this roster are releasing new original music in 2023, so it is delightful to present the Ark-La-Tex with a diverse lineup of the music of today.”

The Red River Revel is expanding the footprint of the festival in 2023, returning the children’s activity area to the parking lot adjacent to Sci-Port on Clyde Fant Parkway. The rebranded “Discovery Maker Zone” (or “DMZ” for short) will feature festival classics like the mock dig and mini grocery store along with the addition of new experiences and activities, as well as a third entertainment stage for the DMZ. The festival is deepening its existing relationship with Sci-Port to offer special discounted admission, new free experiences, and special weekend events.

Records Archivist Fermand Garlington Recipient Of The Lsus Sue Ann Kemp Meritorious Award

“He should carry the nickname, ‘Extra Step Garlington,’” wrote Brian Sherman, dean of the Noel Memorial Library, in his nomination of Garlington.

“Fermand is always going the extra mile.

Garlington, who worked in library circulation before joining the Northwest Louisiana Archives staff, assists students, professional researchers and community members locate items in the library’s extensive archives. He’s served as an archivist since 2005 and is approaching his 25th overall anniversary at LSUS.

The archives, the largest in North Louisiana, contain copious amounts of primary sources documenting the region’s history.

“Whether it’s assisting a high-profile researcher or a wayward pedestrian in the building, you can always expect 110 percent from Fermand,” Sherman said. “He prefers to stay in the background, but I can absolutely say without a doubt that the effort he puts in makes the lights shine brighter in the front of the house.

The Kemp award was established by Dr. George Kemp, a psychology professor and former dean who was well known for his many contributions to LSUS.

HUNDREDS OF VOLUNTEERS SHOW FOR UNITED WAY’S ANNUAL DAY OF CARING

Roughly 800 volunteers attended United Way of Northwest Louisiana’s (UWNWLA) annual Day of Caring, May 24th, sponsored in part by Chesapeake Energy, CareSouth, Brookshire’s, Horseshoe Bossier City, SB Magazine, Healthy Blue of Louisiana, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana, Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino, Fox Search Group, and Frymaster.

Day of Caring is one of the largest single-day, communitywide volunteer events in Northwest Louisiana. This year, volunteers from more than 50 local businesses and 12 local nonprofits rallied to make an impact across Shreveport-Bossier.

During Day of Caring, a team of volunteers are partnered with a nonprofit agency to complete a project for a nonprofit that may not have the financial resources or manpower to hire outside help to achieve. For Day of Caring 2023: Volunteer for the Gold, UWNWLA coordinated 27 projects submitted by nonprofit agencies for volunteers to complete. In addition, the organization added several projects of its own; approximately 1,500 essential needs kits were assembled for future hurricane evacuees, six communities were cleaned, five Born Learning Trails were installed (educational and active outdoor games designed to boost children’s language and literacy development), and two community gardens were maintained.

We are creating a community in Northwest Louisiana where no one affected by Alzheimer’s or dementia makes the journey alone.

The event kicked off with a pep rally breakfast at the Bossier City Civic Center, where volunteers gathered to learn more about the impact they were making, showed their volunteer spirit by performing team chants, and enjoyed beats from Huntington High School and Caddo Heights Math/Science Elementary drumlines. From there, volunteers dispersed across Shreveport-Bossier to complete projects for our community’s nonprofits, such as LifeShare, Geaux 4 Kids, the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, and more. These projects were coordinated based on the nonprofit agency’s greatest need and ranged from painting facilities, washing vehicles, organizing warehouses, assembling bags of clothing and necessities for children in foster care, beautifying gardens, and encouraging blood donations. Volunteers also had the opportunity to give blood through LifeShare at the Day of Caring breakfast, and through their donations and encouragement of donations at Walmart Supercenters, 40 units of blood were collected for those in need, exceeding UWNWLA’s goal of 20 units.

“Our volunteers’ commitment to making positive differences in the lives of others is truly inspiring,” said LaToria W. Thomas, UWNWLA President & CEO. “They embraced the tasks with passion and dedication, making a lasting impact on our community and reminding us of all the power of collective action. On behalf of our board, staff, and the community we serve, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our volunteers for their unwavering dedication and the tremendous difference they have made.” Thanks to Day of Caring volunteers, the Shreveport-Bossier nonprofit community saved more than $67,000 in labor costs within three hours of service work.

Once volunteers completed their projects, they returned to the Bossier City Civic Center to celebrate their accomplishments. The afterparty featured music and karaoke by Treetop Entertainment, games, raffle prizes, lunch provided by UWNWLA and community partners, and the announcement of the 2023 Day of Caring Spirit Award winner. The Spirit Award is given to the volunteer team who showed the most volunteer spirit by dressing up, participating in spirit games, showing their impact on social media, and overall, increasing morale and energy to foster love and excitement around volunteering. The volunteer team to take home this award for the second year in a row was AEP SWEPCO & IBEW

UWNWLA is proud to have partnered with local nonprofits for another successful year of giving back to our community by creating excitement around volunteerism and teaching the importance of it. students.

Ywca Announces New Executive Director

The Board of Directors of the YWCA of Northwest Louisiana is pleased to announce AJ Dunn as the organization’s next Executive Director.

“Joining the YWCA is a dream come true and I am honored to embark on this new journey in my career,” said Dunn. “I am ready to hit the ground running and work collaboratively with the talented team here. Together, we will write a new chapter of success and create a brighter future for the YWCA, our stakeholders, and our community.”

Dunn brings a unique combination of leadership skills, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to the mission to her new position leading the YWCA, an organization that provides vital community programs dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women. She has a proven track record of developing and implementing successful strategies that have led to sustainable growth and increased organizational effectiveness.

Dunn holds a master’s degree in Family and Child Studies with a concentration in Child Development from Louisiana Tech. She also has certifications in nonprofit management, domestic violence, Positive Parenting Program, childbirth education, and vocational adjustment training. In addition, Dunn is a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist and co-founder of the Doula Collective, providing education and support to pregnant individuals and their families with a focus on preventing infant and maternal mortality, especially in communities of color.

“We are thrilled to welcome AJ Dunn to the YWCA of Northwest Louisiana as she takes the helm as our next executive director,” said Board President Arielle Clark. “We are confident she will bring her passion, commitment, and experience as a nonprofit leader to advance the YW’s mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.”

Second Saturday Downtown

Venue: Downtown Shreveport

Dates: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Saturday

Time: 10 AM – 6 PM

Info: www.downtownshreveport.com

Bossier City Farmers Market

Venue: Pierre Bossier Mall

Dates: Recurring every Saturday through November

Time: Saturdays 9 AM – 1 PM

Info: www.BossierCityFarmersMarket.com

GLASS-BLOWING ART WORKSHOP

Venue: Sanctuary Arts School

Date: Recurring weekly

Time: See website for available times

Info: sanctuaryglassstudio.com

GLASS-BLOWING ART WORKSHOP

Venue: High Gravity Glassworks

Dates: Recurring weekly

Time: See website for available times

Info: www.highgravityglassworks.com

PROVENANCE MARKETS & MUSIC

Venue: Windrush Park at Provenance

Date: Recurring monthly on the 3rd Thursday

Time: 4 PM – 8 PM

Info: 318-683-0399

Red River Balloon Rally

Venue: Louisiana Downs in Bossier City

Date: Friday, July 14th and Saturday, July 15th

Time: See website for schedule of events and tickets.

Info: www.redriverballoonrally.com

Shreveport Farmers Market

Venue: Festival Plaza

Date: Recurring every Saturday through August

Time: Saturdays 7:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Info: www.redriverrevel.com/farmers-market

Jam On The Red

Venue: Shreveport Aquarium

Date: Recurring weekly on Thursday

Time: 5:30 PM – 9 PM

Info: www.shreveportaquariumevents.com/jam-onthe-red

Ktbs 3 Freedom Fest Finale

Venue: Riverview Park

Date: Tuesday, July 4th

Time: 9 PM

Info: www.ktbs.com/freedomfest/freedomfestfinale/

Shreveport Card Show

Venue: AcroSports & The Fieldhouse

Dates: Saturday, July 29th

Time: 9 AM – 5 PM

Info: Shreveport Card Show on Facebook

SLT SUMMER MUSICAL: “ANYTHING GOES”

Venue: Shreveport Little Theatre

Date: Friday, July 21st through Sunday, July 30th

Time: See website for times.

Info: www.shreveportlittletheatre.com

Barksdale Market

Venue: Bedrock Academy

Date: Recurring every Sunday through June

Time: Saturdays 10 AM – 2 PM

Info: www.barksdalemarket.com/

GLOFEST – BAKOWSKI BRIDGE OF LIGHTS

Venue: Shreveport Riverview Plaza

Date: Tuesday, July 4th

Time: 7 PM – 10 PM

Info: www.texasstreetbridge.com/

BOARDWALK BRIDAL MARKET & SAMPLE SALE

Venue: Louisiana Boardwalk, Bossier City

Dates: Saturday, August 5th

Time: 11 AM – 4 PM

Info: Boardwalk Bridal Market & Sample Sale Event on Facebook