OCTOBER 2023 - TOP DOCTORS AND DENTISTS

From birth through every the care you need

every stage of life, is always here.

EDITOR

October is here! This time of year is always exciting to me. The leaves start turning, the weather gets a little cooler, football season is heating up, and I start getting daily notifications that count down the days until Christmas. Best of all, it’s our Top Doctor’s issue.

The peer-to-peer ballots are in and counted. The list is compiled, and we celebrate Shreveport-Bossier’s physicians who have dedicated their lives to helping others.

I’m partial to the profession because, I’m proud to say, that my eldest son, Blake May, is a radiologist in Baton Rouge. His wife, Katherine, is also a doctor (they met in medical school) so I know the work and long hours that go into becoming an MD and practicing medicine. Although, I’ve never understood why it’s called “practicing.”

My youngest son, Logan May, has an exciting story I will share with you later. You will also enjoy looking at some old (really old) photos of area’s first hospital, Charity Hospital which was built in 1876. Speaking of old, (the theatre – not Robert) we’ll feature Robert Darrow, the Artistic Director of Shreveport Little Theatre, who is retiring at the end of this theatrical season after 27 years. We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we’ve enjoyed putting it together.

Seva May Owner / Executive Editor

Send news announcements, story ideas, and other requests to editor@sbmag.net.

PUBLISHER

G. Byron May

OWNERS

G. Byron May

Seva May

Noble Feldman

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Seva May

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Hailey Lawson

PHOTOGRAPHY

Hailey Lawson

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Dakota Morgan

SALES MANAGER

Keyle Cavalier

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Stephanie Pringle

Karessa Edwards

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Teddy Allen

Ursula Brantley

Adam Bailey

Kim Condon

Hailey Lawson

Alfred Ingram

Merilee Kern, MBA

HOW TO REACH US

318.221.7264 • Fax 318.676.8850 850 Stoner Ave. Shreveport, LA 71101

ADVERTISING

318.221.7264

WEBSITE www.sbmag.net

SUBSCRIPTION QUESTIONS

subscriptions@sbmag.net

POSTMASTER

Send address changes to SB Magazine, Inc., 850 Stoner Ave., Shreveport, LA 71101. SB Magazine is published monthly by SB Magazine, Inc., 850 Stoner Ave., Shreveport, LA 71101. Advertising Rates on request.

Subscription Rate: $16 per year. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily constitute the view of SB Magazine, Inc . SB Magazine reserves the right to accept or reject advertisements. Third Class

Postage Paid at Shreveport, LA 71101.

Copyright © 2023 SB Magazine, Inc.

Volume 24, Issue 9

Landscaping and Groundskeeping - Mowing, bush and tree trimming, flower bed maintenance, grass and bed fertilization, brush removal, and trash clean up.

Commercial Portering and Junk Removal - Site cleanup, large item removal, basic demo, waste and recycling analysis.

Pressure Washing - Commercial facilities, industrial facilities, and fleet washing.

Commercial Handyman Services - Handyman indoor and outdoor, gate and fence repairs, parking lot striping, and outdoor equipment painting.

COLUMNS:

FEATURES:

Dr.

Dr.

Dr.

Dr.

Dr.

PICTURED

Dr.

Dr.

Flexible pacing

Custom learning plans

Attentive teachers

Pathways In Education is an accredited public charter high school in Northwest Louisiana that specializes in providing guided independent study, hybrid, and personalized learning programs for students who need an alternative to traditional education.

With the support of dedicated and caring teachers, Pathways students attend campus twice a week for an hour and work at their own pace toward graduation. We are now enrolling 9-1 2 grade students, aged 2 1 or under. Scan the QR code below to learn more!

Program Features

Earn your accredited high school diploma

Pathways In Education is fully accredited by AdvancED (Cognia), which ensures the highest level of quality when it comes to preparing students for their college and career goals.

Thrive with a blended learning model

Pathways offers multiple learning formats to fit the unique needs of each student. These include small group classes, guided independent study, and hands-on experiential learning programs.

Feel safe in a smaller, quieter learning environment

Pathways is a small, secure campus where every student is welcome exactly as they are and can focus on their studies without the social stresses of noisy hallways, large crowds, or bullying.

Centaur Coronation 2023 Krewe of Centaur held their Midway to Mardi Gras Coronation at Riverview Hall. The Centaur Coronation XXXII theme was “Fly Away with Centaur.” Captain XIX Ricky Bridges piloted the Centaur krewe through a balmy evening to discover the new Royal Court. King Centaur XXXII Kole Caston and Queen Centaur XXXII Kelly Dick were crowned the monarchs of the Krewe of Centaur. The Royals also included Duke and Duchess of Food, Alan and Michele Ringle; Duke and Duchess of Frolic, Jeremy Weese and Kelcie Ross; Duke and Duchess of Fantasy Richard and Brittney Pool; Duke and Duchess of Fun Jack and Destiny Collier; Princesses: Savannah Ardoin, Ellen Dart, Hayden DeBroeck, Kyndall Johnson, Molly Kavanaugh, and Logan Shadow; and Princes: Devin Brice, Braylan Bridges, Trace Ivins, Landon LeVasseur, Tucker Melton, and Kaden Wallace. 1. Queen Centaur XXXII Kelly Dick and King Centaur XXXII Kole Caston 2. Centaur Captain XIX Ricky Bridges 3. Duke and Duchess of Food Alan and Michele Ringle 4. Duke and Duchess of Fun Jack and Destiny Collier

Krewe of Elders Coronation

The Krewe of Elders celebrated their 26th Coronation at the American Legion Post on Cross Lake. With a festive “Sports Spectrum” theme, guests sported a wide array of favorite team jerseys, team colors, and sports uniforms. Congratulations to this year’s Krewe of Elder XXVI Royalty: Captain Pat Stell, Co-Captain Patsy McGee, King Jesus Eguia, Queen Sharon Davis, Duchess of Longevity Reba Martin, Duchess of Wisdom Marilyn Creswell, and Duchess of Prosperity Dianne Harmon. A highlight of the evening was when King Jesus kneeled and asked Queen Sharon to marry him. She said YES! 1. Elders King XXVI Jesus Eguia proposes to Elders Queen XXVI Sharon Davis 2. Elders Captain XXVI Pat Stell, Co-Captain Patsy McGee, King Jesus Eguia, Queen Sharon Davis, Duchess of Longevity Reba Martin, Duchess of Wisdom Marilyn Creswell, and Duchess of Prosperity Dianne Harmon 3. Queen Centaur XXXII Kelly Dick and King Centaur XXXII Kole Caston 4. Justinian Queen XXX Allison Byrd and Justinian King XXX Donald Hathaway

Evening for Healers The 12th annual Evening for Healers continued the tradition of the LSU Health Sciences Foundation to recognize and celebrate first responders and healthcare professionals who work tirelessly every day to save lives. Chaired by Drs. Justin & Anna Moore and Liz & David Means (Anna’s parents), this year’s event honored three patients, their families and their first responders/ caregivers: Kerrington Jones, Lynette Moye, and Evie Hilburn. Hosts for the evening were Kevin Flood, President & CEO of the LSU Health Sciences Foundation, and Dr. David Guzick, Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport. Proceeds from Evening for Healers benefits the medical schools of LSU Health Shreveport: Allied Health, Graduate Studies, and Medicine. Some photos provided by LSU Health Sciences Foundation. 1. Honorees, their Families and Recipients 2. LSU Health Sciences Foundation staff: Kevin Flood, President & CEO; Apryl Bundy, Director of Development Services; Brigette Rose, Executive Vice President & CFO; Mary Cobb, Director of Alumni Relations; Samantha Roberts, Director of Marketing and Communications; Dr. Suzanne Tinsley, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement; Katie Bursley, Director of Donor Relations & Events; Viki Fentress, Office Manager; Sarah Lynch, Accounting Manager; Margo Holland, Director of Development for Feist-Weiller Cancer Center; Evans Knight, Director of Development.

3. Drs. Justin & Anna Moore and Liz & David Means, Event Chairs

Farmer’s Market The final Shreveport Farmer’s Market of the season featured “Mimosas at the Market’’ sponsored by Land Rover Shreveport. Although a steamy Saturday morning, cold mimosas were perfect for patrons to sip while enjoying the fresh produce and wide array of foods prepared by local vendors. 1. Jazmine Williams, Fiona Benjamin, Victoria Rogers, and Meshaley Marlowe 2. Anna Whittenbarger with daughters Cecilia and Charlotte 3. Suzie Hargroder and Elizabeth Glassel 4. Layla King and Kayla King

Justinian Coronation The Krewe of Justinian XXX Coronation Ball was held at Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino Magnolia Ballroom. Captain Amy Day led her krewe “Down the Rabbit Hole” with this Alice in Wonderland themed black-tie event. The presentation of the Royal Court included King Judge Donald E. Hathaway, Jr., Queen Alison Byrd, Duke Mike Marino, Duchess Valerie DeLatte, Duke Thomas Mayfield, Duchess Claire Hill, Prince Thomas Hathaway, and Princess Codi Setters. Heavy hors d’oeuvres were served and entertainment provided by Stretta. The Krewe of Justinian was formed in 1994 for area attorneys, judges, and other persons interested in the legal affairs of the community to participate in and promote the celebration of Mardi Gras in the Ark-La-Tex.

Gemini Coronation The Krewe of Gemini XXXV Coronation was held at Sam’s Town Hotel and Casino. This black-tie presentation of royalty is a highly anticipated event since the new royals are kept secret for months until revealed on this special night. Led by Gemini Captain Tom Wyche, the Gemini XXXV Royalty were crowned to begin their reign for the 2023-2024 Mardi Gras Season. The Royal Court included King Roger Lites, Queen Amy Reeves, Duke of Arkansas Alex Anderson, Duchess of Arkansas Amanda Herrington, Duke and Duchess of Louisiana Cole and Mindy Guthrie, Duke and Duchess of Texas Steven and Linda Bailey as well as Princes and

Queen XXXV Amy Reeves, Captain Tom Wyche, and King

and Duchess of Arkansas Amanda

1. Krewe of Justinian XXX Royal Court 2. Justinian King XXX, The Honorable Judge Donald E. Hathaway, Jr. and Queen XXX Alison Byrd 3. Justinian Captain Amy Gardner Day 4. Justinian King XXX, The Honorable Donald E. Hathaway, Jr., Captain Amy Gardner Day, and Queen XXX Alison Byrd 5. Anna Priestley and Jimmy Franklin

Princesses. 1. Gemini

XXXV Roger Lites 2. Duchess of Texas Linda Bailey, Duchess of Louisiana Mindy Guthrie,

Herrington 3. Duke of Arkansas Alex Anderson, Duke of Louisiana Cole Guthrie, and Duke of Texas Steven Bailey 4. Krewe of Gemini Royal Court 2023 5. Gemini Captain Tom Wyche

Louisiana Soul Food Fall Festival The Louisiana Soul Food Fall Festival returned to the Louisiana State Fairgrounds August 25-27. This year’s festival was themed “Diversity of Flavors” and featured a Sweet Potato Pie contest, a Seafood Boil competition, a Grill Smoke Out competition, fabulous food for sale made by local chefs, cooking demos, a car show, and more. Chefs from around the country competed in the various food competitions and rapper Bun B made an appearance to promote his wildly popular Trill Burgers.1. Festival Director & Founder Tammy T. Wright and Mayor Tom Arceneaux 2. Judge Ree J. Casey-Jones, Elizabeth Arceneaux, Mayor Tom Arceneaux and Jacqueline Scott 3. Elizabeth Arceneaux, Mayor Tom Arceneaux and Jacqueline Scott

BY ADAM BAILEY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARC GIBSON

Contemporary, Home French

Country

Clean and crisp. Off the hanger, white and fresh. This property presents a place between conviviality and creation—and is just minutes away from the heart of Bossier City.

Tucked away in the sought-after Bossier City neighborhood, known as The Village at Tiburon, lies this unexpected and contemporary home. Balancing tranquility with expertly executed custom architecture, this home is like no other—as it is thoughtfully designed to complement the natural fold of the land on which it sits to maximize the views of the property. For many people, a multigenerational home is just the home they already live in. At some point or another, many families across three (or even more) generations choose to live together for any number of reasons. And, in many parts of the world, it’s incredibly common to do so.

Come step inside this expansive 4-bedroom, 3-bath home spanning over 3,435 square feet, and find an entertainer’s haven, filled with elegant touches, an outdoor patio area, a main-floor primary suite, and a 3-car garage. An accessory pool house is in the backyard, and with it comes its own exercise room, private bathroom, laundry room, and living area. “I love that the home has a contemporary feel to it,” says listing agent Opah Phillips of Bossier’s East Bank Real Estate. “All the elegant touches throughout make this complete for any potential homebuyer. Besides, wouldn’t you love having a contemporary, French country home?”

Those custom touches include wide-plank tile floors, soaring ceilings, vast walls, beautiful doors, and custom light fixtures at every turn—all contributing elements that capture views from almost every room of the house. The views are perhaps some of the most enchanting when taken in from

the outdoor living area, which is built off the primary suite, informal dining room, and family room.

The spacious primary suite is thoughtfully positioned on the first floor for all-day privacy and peace, with large floor-to-ceiling windows that look out toward the pool views—the serene bedroom is outfitted with dual walk-in closets. From the tranquil master bedroom, a view of the master bathroom’s masterful focal point is visible. A lavish, free-standing soaking tub is the eye-catching element positioned in its own nook, complete with dual sinks and a custom shower.

The spacious and bright open kitchen/family room creates the centerpiece of the house and is studded with gorgeous ceilings, large floor-to-ceiling windows, and tile floors. Guests can be entertained in the family room as they peer out of numerous windows. The home’s fantastic combination of private spaces and a breezy open floor plan provide the perfect setting for relaxing or hosting.

Accented with classic coffered ceilings and a grand, eye-catching fireplace that is flanked by custom-built bookcases—the family room is suited for more casual gatherings. It flows seamlessly into the chef’s kitchen which has been perfected with a large island, professional-grade appliances, beautiful granite countertops, and custom cabinetry. The kitchen has many features that beautifully complement the custom features and ornate built-ins of the living room.

The home’s layout provides a thoughtful separation of spaces for both the primary suite and additional bedrooms. The three additional bedrooms offer private space for undisturbed living, while sunlight pours into the game room perched on the second floor.

But for all the custom craftsmanship and the unique features that were so thoughtfully placed inside; outside, the grounds are equally as exceptional as the interior—offering endless opportunities for active days and social nights. Features include a covered

gorgeous outdoor fireplace and outdoor dining area, pool, and lounge area. Conveniently located off the family room, the outdoor, covered patio area is framed by exposed wood timbers as it overlooks the pool. Complete with a grill, wood-planked ceiling, and outstanding views, this outdoor seating area is sure to host many unforgettable gatherings—whether it is watching television, roasting s’mores, or just spending time together. Or, should you prefer, feel free to dip into the pool as the sun sets as you gaze out on the endless starscape of the unobstructed night sky.

This elegant, exclusive residence exudes modern European charm with its light, airy, and peaceful best-of-all-worlds layout. Located just moments from the heart of Bossier City, The Village at Tiburon community is one of north Louisiana’s most enchanting enclaves, also known for its picturesque roads, sidewalks, manicured landscaping, and beautiful homes.

UNITED WAY OF NORTHWEST LOUISIANA COLLECTS MORE THAN

18,000 SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR LOCAL STUDENTS AND TEACHERS

In July and August, United Way of Northwest Louisiana (UWNWLA) partnered with Bossier Parish Schools and Caddo Parish Public Schools for its annual Fill the Bus school supply drive, sponsored by Aetna and KSLA News 12. Within three weeks, the organization collected 18,250 school supplies with an impact value of $26,900 for students and teachers within the school districts. Monetary donations resulted in $2,151 for the school systems. Bossier Parish Libraries, RRCU, Shreve Memorial Library, North Caddo Medical Center, and Blanchard Medical aided the initiative by collecting supplies at their locations.

UWNWLA’s Fill the Bus initiative encourages Northwest Louisiana communities to shop at participating Walmart Supercenters to purchase and donate school supplies for local students. This initiative allows students in Bossier and Caddo parishes to start the upcoming school year with the basic tools needed for success and benefits more than 4,000 elementary, middle, and high school children identified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and/or families struggling to make ends meet.

"The support United Way provides to our teachers and students at the start of the school year is invaluable," said Bossier Schools Superintendent Mitch Downey. "Thanks to the Fill the Bus drive, we were able to set up a school supply room for educators to get items needed for their classrooms that some of our families were unable to provide. Sending children back to school is expensive enough, then factor in everything costing more, making it difficult for many to buy everything on their children's supply lists. Our teachers see that firsthand, often reaching into their own wallets to fill the gaps, but thankfully, United Way's efforts go a long way in helping with those needs."

Bossier Schools will use the monetary donations from Fill the Bus to purchase additional school supplies requested by teachers. Caddo Schools is using its monetary donations to support the McKinney-Vento Program, which provides rights and services to children experiencing homelessness and allows them to remain in their schools of origin during their homelessness.

"I WANT TO EXPRESS OUR HEARTFELT GRATITUDE TO ALL THE COMMUNITY MEMBERS WHO GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED FILL THE BUS,” SAID RAAVIN EVANS, UWNWLA DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY IMPACT. “YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS WILL MAKE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE EDUCATION OF OUR STUDENTS. WE SURPASSED OUR GOAL THIS YEAR AND INCREASED OUR IMPACT BECAUSE OF YOU. WE ARE TRULY THANKFUL FOR YOUR KINDNESS AND SUPPORT. THANK YOU FOR COMING TOGETHER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!"

Uniting Forces. Amplifying Success.

With local roots and a focus on quality client service, Postlethwaite & Netterville (P&N) has a long history of helping organizations innovate, transform, connect, and grow.

By uniting with EisnerAmper, we’re continuing to build on our strong foundation by expanding our local and global resources. Discover how we can amplify your success.

Our team is excited to leverage the latest technology and additional resources to support our decades-long commitment to providing the highestquality service.

A LEGACY OF SUCCESS

For the past 74 years, Postlethwaite & Netterville (P&N) provided quality client services and resources in the ever-evolving Gulf Coast business landscape. As one of the fastestgrowing firms in the country, we have remained committed to delivering highquality, cutting-edge services over the decades.

Now part of EisnerAmper, we’re well positioned to provide our clients with additional resources that accelerate growth and opportunity – today and into the future.

Our combination brings many new offerings to EisnerAmper, including a variety of advisory, outsourcing, and technology services. As leaders in governmental consulting, disaster management and recovery, cybersecurity, tax, assurance, and settlement administration, we’re nationally recognized with clients from coast to coast.

GLOBAL RESOURCES & CONTINUED GROWTH

Challenges abound in today’s world. Organizations constantly need access to knowledge about opportunities for transformation, regulatory issues, and economic hurdles. With EisnerAmper, clients throughout Louisiana and the Gulf Coast have gained access to robust market insights—with firm offices in more major cities such as New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Miami, Minneapolis, and more.

Clients rely on EisnerAmper for comprehensive audit, accounting, advisory, consulting, and tax services. We base our approach on four professional principles:

• Responsive – We listen to client concerns and craft responsive solutions tailored to their needs.

• Accountable – We look for actionable solutions that produce tangible, measurable results for our clients. We focus on the practical.

• Principled – We uphold the highest ethical, regulatory, and legal standards of our profession.

• Relationship-oriented – We focus on building long-term relationships with our clients to help them grow, addressing their concerns at every step of their journey.

EisnerAmper professionals package experience, acumen, and industryspecific skill sets to deliver customtailored solutions. The firm provides a strong foundation for continued growth, including a breadth of experience in financial services, real estate, private equity, and more—along with expanding our resources and capabilities in tax and audit.

LOCAL LEADERS IN YOUR COMMUNITY

We have always been proud to call Louisiana and the Gulf Coast home. Now part of a Top 20 accounting and business advisory firm, our commitment to our clients and our local communities is stronger than ever. You can expect to see the same familiar faces and experience the same foundational values that you’ve come to expect from P&N.

As accounting and advisory leaders in the region, the Gulf Coast EisnerAmper team looks forward to providing impactful insights, creating innovative solutions, and focusing on the relationships that make the Louisiana business landscape unique.

We are ready, as always, to amplify your success.

WONDERFALL

Fashion

1. Gooooo! Tigers! Cheer for the winning team in Stewart Simmons purple and sequin Tiger dress. ($110) Knee High boots by Pierre Dumas, ($78) Caroline Hill Tiger earrings ($16) and Budha girl Bracelets ($125 set of 9).

2. So many ways to accessorize with a tan puff sleeve dress by THML Clothing ($72). We chose gold and acyclic earrings by Michelle McDowell ($18), Shushop white clogs ($80), and Budha Girl fawn bangles ($100).

Look sharp this Fall

3. Wide-leg pants are showing up for fall. Rust is the perfect color to go with practically everything! Anniewear ($52), Chinese Laundry tan boots ($80) Budha Girl bangles ($125 set of 9) and Peach Love California puffed-sleeved, cropped sweater ($56).

4. What a fashion score with Peach Love California Touchdown Sequin top ($64), Wide Leg Denim by Anniewear ($52), paired with Shushop white clogs ($80) and locally sourced Sandy & Rizzo Football earrings ($35).

5. You’ll find an outfit for every game. Not pictured are New Orleans Saints and Louisiana Tech Bulldog fanwear.

Model: Brooke Thomas

Photography: Hailey Lawson

BY SEVA MAY

Wh at do you do when you’ve spent most of your life in a gymnastics program competing with a medal-winning team and suddenly it ends? Just like that, during your senior year of high school, you’re packing your bags for the state competition and a phone call brings the trip to a screeching halt. COVID-19 brought an end to so many hopes and dreams. But it didn’t stop Landan Matriano-Lim from pursuing another passion that had captured his imagination since he was 11—driving fast cars. Extremely fast cars.

It all began for Landon when his father, Allan Matriano-Lim bought a sports car. In his quest to find a place to drive it without getting a speeding fine, he discovered that a track in New Orleans was opened for such “hobbies.” Next to that track was a Kart track where Landon spent much of his time racing karts. Faster than your ordinary go-carts, Kart racing gave Landon a taste of what driving a real race car would be like, and he loved it. His competitive spirit would be satisfied, he could make money, and racing could take him all over the globe.

Landon’s first real race car was a yellow Lotus Elise which he would sometimes drive to his high school (Loyola College Prep) when he wasn’t in his Jeep. He took dual enrollment classes through LSUS while in high school which allowed him to finish college in three years with a double major in management and marketing. Because he was 21 when he began this journey, (apparently on the old side for a beginner) he was determined to catch up with the other, younger racers he was competing with.

Landon succeeded by turning some heads in club racing and making some good impressions at the racing camps. Formula Racing takes commitment, physical fitness, a sharp mind, and a strong foundation of driving skills. Drivers may take years of climbing the racing ladder to go from Formula 4 to Formula 1 with two levels in between. Landon had to first test with a racing team coached by former racing professionals. He was assessed on his driving technique, his speed,

LANDAN MATRIANO-LIM

and his level of confidence. The coaches didn’t just rely on what they could see. The cars are equipped with data systems that measure the G-force, the turn speeds, and even how many times the brakes are used. Landon passed the tests and was signed by Jensen Global Advisors for the 2023 racing season competing in the Formula 4 United States Championship. JBA has a long history of developing young race car drivers. Team principal Eric Jensen said of Landan, “He immediately impressed setting competitive lap times on day one. Given his record of winning in the NASA prototype cars, we expect that Landan will immediately be able to challenge for points and top-five finishes.”

Officials won’t just let you go willy-nilly around the track. After all, this is a very dangerous sport. Drivers must qualify to go forward. A typical Formula 4 weekend involves test and qualifying sessions and three 30-minute races. With about four hours of track time at each event, Landan is working his way up that ladder. He’s finishing 15th through 19th in most of his races in a field of 30 racers.

Landan is working with a sport he absolutely loves. “My ultimate goal is to be a paid driver, to have a team behind me that works on the car and puts their trust in me as the driver to put the entire team on the podium.” Judging by his work ethic so far, and how great he looks in his driving gear, we believe Landan will make it to the finish line with no problem.

Krewe of Highland:

Now Nourishing the Spirit—and Bellies—of Shreveport Year-Round

By Lisa J. Nicoletti

When Shreveport’s famous Krewe of Highland parade annually rolls the Sunday before Mardi Gras, people flock the streets for fun and a chance to catch weird throws and goodies, including bagged spaghetti, pickles, candy canes, and hot dogs, to name a few. This parade, the signature public event fulfilling the community-building mission of the Krewe, was enjoyed by an estimated 35,000 people this year. Starting this fall, the Krewe of Highland embarks on a leafy venture to permanently transform its parade-route neighborhoods, from Stoner Avenue to Ockley Drive, all year long.

The Krewe of Highland will begin a massive undertaking to beautify Highland Park and improve drought-ridden neighborhood medians. Along with ornamental bushes and maintenance-free groundcovers, over three-hundred fruit trees will be planted to revitalize Highland Park. The project couldn’t be more timely. The first part of the beautification plan, starting now, will be the controlled removal of dead and infected plants and trees scorched by summer heat. Replacement trees and plants are sorely needed, and the Krewe has a plan to keep them growing for generations.

To accomplish this massive feat spanning the Highland, South Highland, and Madison Park neighborhoods, the Krewe is collaborating with community partners and volunteers, including Smith’s Lawn and Landscape, Mayor Arceneaux’s office, Caddo Parish, Shreveport Public Assembly & Recreation (SPAR), and Boy Scouts of America

Troop 15. Residents have also jumped on board to express their planting preferences and interest to adopt their local median improvements.

In addition to beautifying Highland Park, the targeted neutral ground areas, from north to south, include:

• The triangle at Marshall Street and Gilbert Drive

• Boulevard Street between Southern and Fairfield Avenues

• Robinson Place between Fairfield and Line Avenues

• Pinehurst Boulevard at Robinson Place

• Columbia Street between Thornhill and Line Avenues

• Kings Highway at Creswell Avenue

• Linden Street at Wheeless Avenue and the circle

• Madison Park Boulevard traffic circle

• Slattery Boulevard from Line to Creswell Avenues and Gilbert Drive to Madison Park Boulevard

• Gilbert Drive and Ockley Drive at the Bayou Pierre bridge District 4 Commissioner and funding sponsor John-Paul Young has worked closely with the Krewe and landscape architects to maximize the project’s impact, especially on Highland Park. Highland Park’s revitalization is designed to allow healthy, free eating choices for all who choose to utilize the neighborhood park. Terraforming will be done in the park to ensure the project’s hundreds of fruit trees, including pear, fig, plum, and apple, will supply nourishing harvests.

To help the plantings flourish, Boy Scout Troop 15 will lend a lot of hands. The historic troop, nearly as old as the Boy Scouts of America, is already a great steward of Highland Park, where its Scout Hut is located. Scouts will look after the plantings until roots are well established. The revitalization project is a perfect fit, as Scouting teaches civic responsibility and a love for the outdoors. The Krewe of Highland and Troop 15 have deep roots. Two years ago, they partnered to add fifteen bald cypress trees to Highland Park, which are thriving and providing much-needed shade on steamy summer days. Maybe as early as next spring, as fun-loving Krewe of Highland revelers toss local business merch, doubloons, and ramen from their eclectic floats, parade-goers will see the Krewe’s first fruit blossoms among stray hanging garlands of multicolored beads and smell the scents of a sweetly promising future in Shreveport.

Mollie Hamm

by: Seva May

When you are a 16-yearold Senior in high school faced with the daily distractions of typical high school activities and drama, it may seem a bit overwhelming and premature to know, let alone decide, precisely what you want out of life. Not true for Mollie Hamm of C.E. Byrd High School. She’s already narrowed down her college choices and knows, without a doubt, that she will be pursuing a degree that is in the realm of entertainment. Maybe even performance.

Mollie is no stranger to the stage and has appeared in numerous Byrd theatre productions since her sophomore year including Miss Scarlet in Clue, Mary Devon in Murder on the Orient Express, and Sophie in Mamma Mia. She’s in rehearsals for Puff (a parody of Harry Potter) where she has the role of the narrator. This year she was named the “Drama Mama” by her peers. This is a real “thing”, a positive thing. The title is passed down from year to year. Mollie was selected from a pool of other juniors. Qualifications are simple. “You must be very active in Drama Club and be somewhat maternal,” said Mollie. Her job as Drama Mama is to make new members feel welcome and every member feel safe and comfortable.

To participate in theatre and the many school clubs she is a member of while maintaining a high GPA, Mollie knows a thing or two about self-management and interdependency. She possesses a quality that most adults work on long after graduation – a belief in herself. For example, last year and this year, Mollie has been a big asset to K-Byrd, a class that produces newscasts for the school. “I’m the executive producer of the weekly news here at Byrd. Every Thursday or Friday I help put it together and try to keep everyone focused,” said Mollie.

Mollie shared the names of some of her favorite teachers. “I love film. I'm a huge movie buff. The teacher, Mr. Gilchrist, was just as passionate about movies and he went in-depth with each film. I really appreciated that, and it really expanded my knowledge of film,” she explains. “Miss Smith, she's been my English teacher for three years now, she's my favorite teacher. She's the sponsor for the Film Prize. She's just a great mentor.” Last year’s entry won the Founder’s Circle Award and the Audience Choice Award.

One of Mollie's favorite pastimes is driving around with her friends listening to music with the top down in her Beetle convertible, Babs. “And I love seeing movies with my friends, especially at the Robinson, anytime, anything showing we go, “said Mollie. “I just saw Fatal Attraction with my friend, Chloe, for the first time - that was so crazy.”

Mollie, who is the caboose in a long line of C.E. Byrd High School graduates is well on her way to making her senior year the best year it can be. Parents Callie and William Hamm, soon-to-be empty nesters, are sure to cherish this final year.

“I just feel very lucky to have such supportive parents.”

Wedding of Bethard-Hays

September 8th, 2023

Kambrie’s and Joseph’s love story began in middle school at a Riverdale Academy basketball camp when Joseph first laid his eyes on Kambrie… or that’s what she likes to say anyway. It really was love at first sight, for both of them. Joseph came to Riverdale in the 8th grade and from that moment on Kambrie knew she was going to marry him. Joseph, in his middle school ways, would flirt with Kambrie by chasing her, putting her lunchbox in the trash can, putting surprises in her locker, etc. Then finally, at the beginning of their freshmen year, Joseph threw his first touchdown pass as the quarterback of Riverdale’s football team so he was feeling especially confident that evening and asked Kambrie to be his girlfriend. In his exact words, he asked “So you wanna make this official”? From then, it was history… There were many movie nights and even more Buffalo Wild Wings dates. Joseph and Kambrie attended different colleges, Joseph went to Northwestern State University and Kambrie attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. They made sure to make the long-distance relationship work by continuing their Buffalo Wild Wings or Sonic drive-thru dates. After college, they both had a passion for law and decided to attend law school together at the Loyola University New Orleans College of Law. They have dreamed about their wedding day since they were teenagers and their dream day came true… So you see, some things that begin in middle school do last a lifetime!

Vendors:

Band: Big Bling and the Funk Machine, Atlanta Georgia

Cake, Brides: Blue Sky Baking Company, Hotchkiss, Colorado

Cake, Grooms: Jacque’s Sweet Treats, Montrose, Colorado

Ceremony: San Sophia Overlook, Telluride, Colorado

Digital Creator: Follow the Bride, Brooke Wilson, Denver Colorado

Florist: Bridal Veil Floral, Telluride, Colorado

Live Ice Carving: Colorado Fruit Design, Grand Junction, Colorado

Music for Second Line/Cocktail Hour: Brass Animals, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Photographer: Lisa Marie Wright, Telluride, Colorado

Reception: The Peaks Resort and Spa, Crystal Room, Telluride, Colorado

Wedding Planners: Leslie Campbell Weddings and Events, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Trisha Cofield, K2 Event, Co., Telluride, Colorado

While advising clients can take many avenues, our team shares a common vision: to help clients develop clear direction for their finances and their life by providing guidance along the way. That’s

Making a Difference

By Seva May

Holly Wood knew what she wanted to be when she grew up when she was in the first grade. A teacher. To be exact, she wanted to be a first-grade teacher. In the second grade, she wanted to be a second-grade teacher. In third grade…and so on until she reached the grade when the rolling eyes, hormones, and smirks took over. Her parents were always a source of encouragement and support. They knew that she loved children and that her passion was working with little ones. And so, she began her journey to become an elementary school teacher. After earning her degree, she began her

career in Bienville Parish but found her home at University Elementary where she taught for over 30 years. While she was “retired” she taught preschool at Ellerbe Baptist Church for a year. Holly couldn’t stay away from the career she loved, so she joined the First Baptist Church School staff. She taught kindergarten for one year and fouryear-olds the next year and was then asked to become the preschool coordinator. Her job description takes up three pages. It’s a big job that includes managing the curriculum and seeing that all teaching materials and supplies are made available to each class. But that's not all she does.

LIFE ISmusic

She plans and presents weekly chapel lessons to all preschool children. She helps plan and organize special preschool events such as STREAM night, Dr. Seuss Day, and Week of the Young Child, Preschool Fun. She works with Centenary College in their Service-Learning Community Partnership to set up schedules for Centenary students to observe in the preschool classroom. There are meetings to attend with faculty, staff, and parents. Newsletters to write and bulletin boards to update. The list of Holly’s duties seems endless, but she loves every minute of working with almost three-year-olds, threeyear-olds, four and five-year-olds.

First Baptist Church School begins with Young Pre-K3 and goes through the eighth grade and covers language arts, science, math, social studies, Christian education, technology, enrichment, and after-school opportunities. The little ones begin learning socialization skills that include everything from being away from mom and dad for the first time to standing in a line.

“First Baptist Church School is one of the very few schools that offer a bridging class. They’re not in the public schools at all. We think that the beginning and the starting of education are the most important years in a child’s life.”

Referencing the quote from Bill Gates, Holly goes on to say that “the first five years make a big difference in how the next 80 are going to turn out.”

For life’s moments, big and small. We’re here with the strength of the cross, the protection of the shield. The Right Card. The Right Care.

Scott Chafin Honoring our Heroes Past and Future

We are all aware of the sacrifices made by police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and educators. Local attorney Scott Chafin wanted to honor their sacrifices and show his gratitude. So Chafin started the Louisiana Heroes Scholarship Fund to help the children of first responders and educators attend college and achieve their dreams.

SB: Where did the inspiration for the Louisiana Heroes Scholarship fund come from?

SC: I come from a long line of public servants. My mother and her parents were Louisiana public school teachers. My dad was a Louisiana State Trooper and later an FBI agent.

My dad told me one night, “If I don’t come home one day, remember that I will have died helping people the best way I know how.” That stuck with me. I know first-hand the incredible sacrifices first responders and their families make daily, and I want them to know we are grateful for their service. And I learned the importance of education from my mom and grandparents.

My parents taught me the value of public service and how important it is to help others. I hope those values are reflected in everything I do. As an attorney, I protect people and communities against big corporations that cut corners and endanger the public. But I wanted to do more to show my appreciation to the people who serve Louisiana. So, I created the Louisiana Heroes Scholarship fund to show my gratitude for their service.

Int: Who is eligible for the scholarship?

SC: Every year, we award scholarships to children of Louisiana police officers, firefighters, first responders, and teachers who attend Louisiana colleges and technical schools.

We have awarded over $60,000 in scholarships so far. One student is studying engineering at LSU, another is studying nursing, and another is studying to become a counselor. Hearing from those students motivates me to keep doing my part. It’s important for Louisiana that our children have a place to work and raise their families one day. Hopefully, the Heroes Scholarship Fund will help accomplish that goal.

2023 Louisiana Heroes Scholarship Recipients

Int: How has your family’s career in public service impacted you as an attorney and the work you do in the community?

SC: My family’s tradition of public service guides my work in the courtroom and in our community.

My grandparents were French-speaking Cajuns from rural south Louisiana. They worked hard and became educators. They taught me that an education is the one thing no one can ever take away from you.

My mother knew what a good education could do for our community and our state. She loved teaching, and she loved her students.

Just a few years ago, I happened to meet one of her former students from 40 years ago. He stared in disbelief at meeting his second-grade teacher’s son. He told me how much my mom had shaped his life. My mom poured her heart and soul into her students, and I bring that same level of dedication to my clients and our community.

Int: Would you say your family’s approach to public service has given you a strong sense of purpose?

SC: Yes, my family didn’t approach public service like a job. It was a duty and a way of life, and I carry that with me into everything I do. It’s my responsibility to help people. Holding big corporations accountable when they cut corners and hurt people is my duty.

It can be tough to take on big corporations, but someone has to stand up to them and fight for working people. Every time a case feels overwhelming, I remember that people are putting their lives on the line and dedicating themselves to our children to build a brighter future. With that in mind, it’s not that hard to take on big corporations.

My mom, Yvonne Chafin, holding a mock election with students in October of 1976

My dad, Scott Chafin, with the Louisiana State Police Troop D in 1983

Advocates for kids

BY GREG THOMPSON

Volunteers for Youth Justice (VYJ) is a community-supported non-profit organization whose mission is to provide care for children, youth, and families in crisis. It began in 1981 the need to break the destructive cycle of at-risk youths was recognized and the work began to assist the Juvenile Court in diverting first-time offenders. These efforts became the catalyst that launched Volunteers for Youth Justice (VYJ), formerly known as the Shreveport Juvenile Justice Program.

VYJ has five primary programs:

• CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates)

• GEMS & GENTS-Youth Mentoring Programs and Leadership Academy, JUMPSTART, Teen Court, and Conflict Resolution.

• Court Programs that consist of FINS (Families in Need of Services), Facts of Life, and Truancy.

• TASC (Truancy Assessment Service Center) K through 5 school attendance.

• TBRI® (Trust-Based Relational Intervention) Trauma-focused services.

• Misdemeanor Referral Center

VYJ has a proven track record of success. It is a story of dreams and possibilities. Through the vision of a few active and caring individuals, the unwavering support of the Judges and court staff, and the groundswell of compassionate volunteers, thousands of our community’s children have been given a light of hope for a brighter tomorrow.

Clifton Tate is one of those volunteers that we are recognizing today.

1. What inspires you about Volunteers for Youth Justice and its mission?

The mission of Volunteers for Youth Justice (VYJ) is to pro vide a community caring for children and youth of families in crisis. I have been a volunteer for VYJ for over 30 years, and for the last 8, most of my volunteer hours have been spent in the CASA program (Court Appointed Special Advocate) where I serve in an advocate role for children who have been removed from their parents’ household due to legal concerns.

Advocates like me (often called “CASAs”) make regular visits with a child to monitor his/her wellbeing. We also speak with the foster parents and any other involved parties that interact with the child such as teachers and counselors if the child is attending school. Based on what we learn, we write reports that family court judges consider during placement review hearings. This gives judges insight into how the child’s interim household environment seems to be working out. It inspires me whenever I think about how these children benefit from this and other programs of VYJ.

2. How do you personally gain purpose from the work you perform for that cause?

Without me and the others who serve as CASAs, these chil dren would be significantly more vulnerable. So, it gives me an incredible sense of purpose.

When I first moved to Shreveport from Boston in 1986 there were a lot of gang killings of youths and young men, and this really weighed heavy on my mind. I would ask myself sometimes what I could do to help. After some time passed, I began being more intentional about that and began doing some research and praying on the matter. I discovered an organization named Shreveport Juvenile Justice Program, which is now called Volunteers for Youth Justice. While I was a little uncertain about exactly what I might be able to offer, I came to understand that I would be valuable by merely being a good listener to what the children and youth had to say.

3. What are some shorter-term and longer-term goals of the organization that keep you passionate and motivated to continue working with them?

A constant goal for CASA is to have enough volunteers to meet the need, so I am not only passionate about continuing this work myself but also helping attract others to it.

In the short term, I also want to see VYJ continue to improve the scope of the programs we offer, and that means VYJ must continue to evaluate the needs of the community. One example of that has been The Harbor, which is a one-stop shop where many needed services are made available from one location.

As for the long term, VYJ has been very fortunate in obtaining grants and donations from different community organizations that have allowed the program to grow and expand to provide more needed services for the community. A goal I would like for VYJ to achieve is to accumulate more corporate sponsorship

Ways to Navigate Chronic Illness Adversities for a Fulfilling & Rewarding Life

Organ

BY MERILEE KERN, MBA

Navigating chronic illness can present more than its fair share of challenges, but with the right strategies and mindset, it is possible to lead a fulfilling and rewarding life. It is expected and perfectly okay to have difficult moments and turbulent emotions throughout sustained periods of adversity. Finding joy doesn't mean ignoring the challenges that inevitably present but rather finding ways to thrive despite them. It means being patient with yourself, and remembering that even small, singular steps can ultimately lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being and joy in life.

According to two-time kidney transplant recipient (who has lived with kidney disease for one-third of his life) Gregory S. Works, author of “Triumph: Life on the Other Side of Trials, Transplants and Transformation,” here are some tactical ways to achieve that:

Acceptance - Accepting your condition is the first step towards effectively managing it. Acknowledge that your life might be different from what you initially imagined, but there are still many possibilities for happiness and fulfillment. Build a Support Network - Surround yourself with understanding and caring individuals – family, friends, or support groups – who can provide emotional support and practical

transplant recipient details ways to live a joyful life amid, and despite, sustained long-term adversity.

assistance when needed.

Educate Yourself - Learn as much as you can about your condition from reliable sources. Understanding your illness empowers you to make informed decisions about your treatment and lifestyle choices.

Set Realistic Goals - Adjust your goals to align with your current capabilities. Celebrate every achievement, no matter how small, as each step counts towards progress.

Manage Stress and Practice Self-Care - Chronic illness can be emotionally taxing. Practice techniques that experts have proven to reduce stress such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, deep breathing or prayer to improve your overall mental well-being. It’s also helpful to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as hobbies, exercise, spending time in nature or reading.

Advocate for Yourself - Be an active participant in your healthcare journey. Communicate openly with your healthcare providers, ask questions, and express your concerns to ensure you receive the best possible care.

Adapt and Modify with Positive Routines - Be flexible in adapting to your changing needs. Modify your daily routines, work arrangements, or social activities to accommodate your health requirements. Establish a daily routine that includes positive habits and activities. Structure can provide a sense of stability and control, even during challenging times.

Celebrate Small Victories - Recognize and appreciate the small victories and progress you make each day. Finding joy in small moments can bring immense satisfaction.

Find Meaning and Purpose - Find activities that give you a sense of purpose and joy. Pursue hobbies, volunteering, or creative outlets that bring fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment.

Limit Negative Influences - Cultivate a positive mindset and focus on the aspects of life that bring joy and happiness. Surround yourself with positive influences and try to let go of negativity. Minimize exposure to negative news, social media, or toxic relationships that may contribute to feelings of stress and sadness. Surround yourself with positive and uplifting content and people.

Practice Gratitude - Appreciate the things you still have and the experiences you can enjoy. Gratitude can shift your focus from what you lack to what you have.

Stay Connected - Even if your condition limits your physical abilities, technology allows for connections. Maintain social relationships through phone calls, video chats, or social media.

Mindfulness and Presence - Practice being present in the moment and cultivate mindfulness. Engage fully in the activities you enjoy, even if they are simple. Mindfulness can help you appreciate the small joys that may often go unnoticed.

Focus on What You Can Control - While some aspects of your life may be beyond your control, focus on the things you can influence. Concentrate your energy on taking positive actions rather than dwelling on what you cannot change.

Cultivate Resilience - Build resilience by reframing challenges as opportunities for growth. Learn from difficult experiences and use them to become stronger and more resilient.

Embrace Imperfection - Accept that life is imperfect, and setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Be kind to yourself and avoid self-criticism when facing challenges.

Engage in Acts of Kindness - Helping others and performing acts of kindness can be a source of joy and fulfillment. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference, both for others and yourself.

Practice Humor - Humor can be a powerful tool to cope with adversity. Find moments of laughter and joy, even in difficult situations.

Visualize a Bright Future - Allow yourself to envision a better future, filled with joy and happiness. Visualization can help create a positive outlook and motivate you to work towards your dreams.

Be Patient with Yourself - Living with a chronic illness can be frustrating. Remember to be patient with yourself and treat yourself with the same compassion you would show to others.

“Challenges are inevitable, but the decisions we make—whether to face them or flee—can profoundly impact our ability to overcome or be overtaken by trials, pain, and suffering in our lives," Works says.

Everyone’s journey with chronic illness is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's crucial to find a personalized approach that suits your needs and helps you live a fulfilling life despite the challenges you face.

Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events.

Merilee is Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List” as well as Host of the  “Savvy Living” lifestyle TV show that airs in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Atlanta and other major markets on CBS, FOX and other top networks; as well as the “Savvy Ventures” business TV show that airs nationally on FOX Business TV and Bloomberg TV. Merilee also hosts the Savvy Ventures Podcast & Radio show available globally on W4CY Radio—the #1 ranked live streaming radio station—among others as well as all major podcast platforms, including Pandora, Audible, Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Streamyard, iHeart Radio and dozens more. As a prolific lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker, Merilee keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at www. TheLuxeList.com and w ww.SavvyLiving.tv / Instagram www. Instagram.com/MerileeKern / Twitter www.Twitter.com/MerileeKern / Facebook www.Facebook.com/MerileeKernOfficial / LinkedIN www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern.

BY HAILEY LAWSON

Get ready for a howling good time because Halloween is the perfect holiday to dress up our furry friends in silly, funny, and scary costumes. Whether you own a dog or a cat, dressing them up in costumes is always a delightful treat. From bats to pumpkins to sharks, there are endless possibilities for turning your pets into the life of the party. Not only does it add to the fun and craziness of Halloween, but it also gets your four-legged family members involved in the festivities. With a broad range of costumes available in various styles and sizes, you can transform your Persian kitty into a precious princess and your Labrador into a magnificent lion.

Here are some important things to keep in mind when selecting costumes for your pets.

• Ensure that the costume fits properly and is comfortable for your pet to wear.

• Check to make sure the costume doesn’t obstruct your pet’s vision or cover their ears.

• Make sure your pet’s tail is free to move while wearing the costume.

• Avoid costumes that are too loose or too tight, as they can restrict your pet’s movement.

• Smooth out your pet’s skin and fur under the costume to avoid any discomfort or pinching.

• Avoid any costume pieces that can be easily chewed off and swallowed.

• If your pet doesn’t take to wearing a costume, consider a Halloween-themed collar or bandana instead.

Did you forget to order a Halloween costume for your pet? Don’t worry, here are some easy DIY pet costume ideas that you can whip up in no time:

DIY CAT COSTUME: Give your friendly feline a flower face with this simple DIY project. All you need is felt material, scissors, elastic, and glue. Measure your cat’s head circumference and cut a piece of elastic to fit comfortably around their head. Cut colorful felt petals about 2 inches long and 1 inch wide and glue them onto the elastic in a

flower pattern. With treats in hand, try the flower on your cat and watch them bloom.

DIY DOG COSTUME: Transform your dog into a batty pup with these DIY bat wings. You’ll need black felt, a wire coat hanger, a piece of wide material for a strap, and glue. Cut two pieces of black felt in the shape of bat wings and a piece of the coat hanger to fit between them. Place the wire between the two wing pieces and glue them together to make one side. Repeat for the other side. Glue the wings together on the wide material strap and fasten around your pet’s chest. Your Batdog is now ready for a trip in the Batmobile.

It’s always fun to dress up your pet for Halloween, but it’s important to make sure they’re comfortable

and safe in their costume. Your furry companion will be the cutest pumpkin in the patch with their new attire!

Happy Halloween to you and your spooky pal!

THE BEST DAY OF THE WEEK?

Cleaning Day, of course! Nothing makes you happier than coming into a spotless house or business. If you have a cleaning lady, you can quickly agree. If you do not, Hire ME! Organizing, decluttering, basic or deep cleans for residential and commercial, move-in/out cleans, luxury maid service, short-term rental turnover, and last but not least, LAUNDRY are all things that we offer. We love what we do, and I am proud that we are known for going above and beyond what other cleaning services may not do. We believe in providing our customers with a trustworthy and reliable cleaning experience.

Here is what people say about us:

“I was gifted a cleaning and the team that came in was INCREDIBLE! Our family has utilized many different cleaning services over the last decade but what Cha’neal and her team accomplished in one afternoon was truly amazing.” -S.M.

“Wow, where do I start? I cannot say enough praise for this company! After trying so many other companies, we found the one! They truly go above and beyond to include regular cleanings, deep cleans, and cleaning for short-term rentals!” -C.B.

“Fast, courteous, professional, cheerful, not afraid of the toughest jobs. I cannot recommend this company enough! You will not be disappointed!!!” -S.C.

A Man For All Seasons

Robert Darrow, known throughout the Shreveport Bossier theatre community as a gifted actor and director, has announced his retirement. After an extraordinary 27-year journey of artistic leadership, Shreveport Little Theatre is bidding farewell to its esteemed Managing and Artistic Director, Dr. Robert “Bobby” Darrow.

“Bobby’s dedication to SLT for over five decades is unparalleled,” board president Marianne Archibald stated. “He has achieved an incredible amount during his 27-year tenure as our Managing and Artistic Director, and his commitment to the theater is immeasurable. While we will miss his day-to-day leadership, we are thrilled that he has graciously offered to continue as a consultant and advisor to ensure the legacy he has built continues to thrive.”

Darrow’s connection with Shreveport Little Theatre began in 1973 when he worked backstage during the production of “Toys in the Attic” under the direction of Robert Buseick. His journey as an actor began at SLT in 1975 when he portrayed Prince Charming in “Snow White,” in the historic premiere stage production of a Walt Disney script.

In 1998, the theater faced financial challenges, with debts surpassing available funds. Darrow was invited by the board of directors to direct “Dearly Departed,” marking his first contribution as a director. Shortly thereafter, he assumed the role of Managing and Artistic Director. Under his steadfast leadership, SLT consistently delivered high-quality productions, breaking box office records and steadily increasing its membership and ticket sales over the ensuing decades. Throughout his tenure, SLT’s participants, including volunteer actors, board members, and patrons, increasingly mirrored the diverse community of northwest Louisiana.

In 2000, under Darrow’s guidance, the restoration of the original theater began with the expansion of the lobby and the addition of a courtyard. Fundraising efforts initiated in 2002 to rebuild the stage and backstage areas, which had

Shreveport Little Theatre Announces Retirement of Managing and Artistic Director, Dr. Robert “Bobby” Darrow

been destroyed in a 1986 fire, saw success thanks to Darrow’s collaboration with Louisiana Senator Lydia P. Jackson and Representative Roy Burrell. The resulting $1,750,000 in State Capital Outlay Funding laid the foundation for a stateof-the-art, 15,200 square foot theater that opened on March 3, 2011. The inaugural production, Tennessee Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire,” directed by Dr. Darrow, was met with critical acclaim.

As a grant writer during his tenure, Darrow secured over $1,200,000 in

awards for the Shreveport Little Theatre and Academy.

As a director, Darrow achieved notable success with productions such as “Steel Magnolias,” “To Kill A Mockingbird,” “Greater Tuna,” “A Tuna Christmas,” “Smoke on the Mountain,” “Sanders Family Christmas,” “The Sound of Music,” and both productions of “Always, Patsy Cline.”

In 2022, to commemorate SLT’s centennial, Darrow authored and published a pictorial history book, “Maker of Dreams,” featuring over 400 production photos spanning 100 years of live theater. He also played a pivotal role in producing a documentary film, “Maker of Dreams,” which premiered statewide on LPB in August 2023, chronicling SLT’s centurylong journey.

A native of Shreveport, Darrow served as the student body president at C.E. Byrd High School. He earned his BA degree from Centenary College of Louisiana in 1981, his MA from LSUS in 2001, and his EdD in Leadership from LSUS in 2018. He boasts a diverse career, including a decade in corporate management, serving as CEO of several nonprofit organizations in Shreveport. Notably, with his physician, he established The Philadelphia Center in 1990, where he currently serves as the Executive Director Emeritus.

Darrow’s numerous accolades include the National Association of Christians and Jews’ “Unsung Hero Award” in 1996, the American Civil Liberties Union’s “Bill of Rights Award” for 1998-1999, the Community Foundation of North Louisiana’s 2008 “G. Scott Griffin

Memorial Award,” The Philadelphia Center’s 2015 “Lifetime Achievement Award,” and The Times’ (Gannett’s) 2016 “Northwest Louisiana Prism Award.”

Darrow is also recognized for his community involvement, having served as a former board member of the Greater Shreveport Human Relations Commission and as an advocate for animal rights, co-founding the Krewe of Barkus and Meoux.

Darrow’s leadership abilities have now crossed over into the political arena. He is a candidate in the race for Louisiana House District 6. His campaign platform includes growing the economy, working to provide quality jobs, improving infrastructure, school improvements, providing affordable elderly care, and reducing violent crime. The election is October 14, 2023 and with his track record, Darrow is more than qualified and up to the challenge.

THE PERFECT

By Seva May

When the company your family income depends on is bought out by a bigger company you might start thinking about doing something else. Like buy your own franchise and watch it blossom so much that you’re able to quit the corporate game and be your own boss.

Jamie and Tim Kochakian did just that when Jamie got into the Novus Glass business. She worked hard for several years until Tim felt confident enough to quit his job and work Novus full-time.

NOVUS Glass is part of Fix Network, the world’s fastest-growing automotive aftermarket services network. The Kochakians knew, probably from personal experience, that sooner or later every automobile owner would experience a chip in their windshield. They also discovered that Novus had a stellar reputation and provided the credibility, tools, and products to help the Kochakians succeed. They now have two locations to serve Shreveport and Bossier City.

Once Tim came on board, Jamie was able to focus on opening a gift shop – a dream she had for as long as she could remember. Much thought went into this decision. One, of which, was what kind of gifts would she feature in her shop. One other was what should the name be. She decided early that she wanted to carry Louisiana-themed gifts and products and to promote locally sourced items. Her mother then came up with the name that originated from a traditional Cajun waltz popularized in the 1940s. It’s sometimes called “the Cajun National Anthem.” The name was music to Jamie’s ears, and she was off and running.

Located in the same building as Novus Glass, Jolie Blonde gifts often spills over into the glass shop’s waiting room. Tim has no problem with that because he knows Jamie is living her dream. And what a dream it is. You’ll discover as soon as you step through the doors that you have found your go-to place for all your gift-giving needs. You’ll find everything from jewelry to tea towels made from recycled water bottles. Baby gifts and signed children’s books from local authors. An incredible selection of bath bombs, lotions, and candles. You can even find that hard-to-shop for men’s gifts such as LSU Tiger coolers and travel bags, novelty socks, Toad Fish for fishermen, and grooming items. Gifts for the home, florals, food items – y’all she has Mayhaw jelly from Cumberland Farms, and cookbooks. Seasonal décor, unique watchbands, wreath sashes, garden

flags, and purse straps. The list goes on and on and each time you visit you are sure to find something you hadn’t seen on your last visit. Jamie goes out of her way to find Louisiana suppliers. She began by working the Facebook angle to find her sources. Now, with a solid reputation and customer satisfaction to back it up, suppliers are reaching out to her. Jamie will always focus on carrying Louisiana and Local artists’ products. Jamie doesn’t think she’ll ever retire and says, “It’s been neat to watch local artists grow.” One visit to Jolie Blonde and you’ll know just how much love she pours into her work. You should “waltz in” sometime and experience the wonders of Jolie Blonde.

Jolie Blondes is located at 9210 Wallace Lake Road, Suite A in Shreveport (Right next to Novus Glass)

By Mark Mangham and Mike Mangham

P u lse

The Medical of the Ark-La-Tex

“Shreveport’s medical institutions have played a significant role in Shreveport’s history for the past century and a quarter and more”.

Eric J. Brock

INthis article, we use information that we found in Eric Brock’s past newspaper columns as well as information that we found in old issues of the Shreveport Times and Shreveport Journal. We also had to look back at past posts that we made on these hospitals on our Twin Blends Northwest History Hunters Facebook page.

Charity Hospital

In 1882, land was purchased for Charity Hospital on the corner of Texas Ave. and Murphy Street. In 1889, it was built and ready for occupancy. It relocated in 1953 to the corner of Kings Highway and Linwood, where it was renamed Confederate Memorial Medical Center. It’s now known as Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport - Academic Medical Center. The old Charity Hospital building was demolished in 1955 and in 1966 the Civic Center was built on that spot and served as City Hall. When City Hall moved out, it became home to the Shreveport Police Dept. When it was still Charity Hospital, there was a tunnel built un-

Schumpert circa 1920s

Charity Hospital circa 1947

der Murphy St. that went from Charity Hospital’s dining room to the nurse’s home. It was called Hardin-Clarkson subway tunnel after the 2 injured girls who were struck and seriously injured crossing that street in 1931.

Schumpert Memorial Hospital

In the early 1890s, Dr. Thomas E. Schumpert was Chief of Surgery at Charity Hospital. By 1894 he was so busy that, to handle his private practice, he opened his own infirmary in a converted Texas Avenue house called Schumpert Sanitarium. He died of typhoid in 1908 at the age of 48. In 1910, ground was broken for Schumpert Memorial Hospital on Margaret Place and in 1911 it was dedicated. In 1957, the new Schumpert was built beside the old Schumpert and, in 1964, the old Schumpert building was demolished. Tr-State Sanitarium/Willis Knighton Medical Center

Erected in 1925 as Tri-State Sanitarium. From 1929 to 1949, the privately owned institution was operated under the leadership of Drs. J. C. Willis Sr. and J. E. Knighton. In 1949 it became known as

Shreveport Hospital and Research Center. In 1951 the name was changed to Willis-Knighton Memorial Hospital. In 1976, the old Tri-State Hospital building was torn down to make room for a $12 million expansion program. During the demolition, construction workers uncovered an old milk bottle which was estimated to be 50 years old as well as other relics of hospital life in years past.

Physicians & Surgeons Hospital (P&S Hospital)

This hospital was built on the corner of Line Ave. and Jordan Street which was previously the site of the home of Mayor L.E. Thomas. P&S was founded by Dr. J. R. Stamper and was opened to the public on Dec. 7, 1941, and had 183 beds and specialized in plastic surgery, ear, nose and throat procedures and rehabilitation services. Its first expansion was in 1944 and was followed by several more over the years. It closed its doors in 1994 because, according to the owners, “it was no longer needed”. Specialists Hospital of Shreveport now sits at this location.

At Twin Blends Northwest History Hunters, we are not history experts. We do research and find old photos and info on the history of our area, but we rely heavily on the works of people like the late Eric J. Brock, Dr. Gary Joiner, and local historian Ernie Roberson not to mention, of course, the magnificent images captured by legendary photographers such as Bill Grabill, Jack Barham, Robert Manasco, Thurman C. Smith, and many others. Without the work of these people and the Northwest Louisiana Archives at LSUS, which houses hundreds of thousands of negatives and photos, we would have nothing to work with and this area’s history would be lost forever. It’s our goal to bring the history of this area to people in a fun and exciting way and to honor the men and women who came before us.

Since 2015, Always Best Care has helped thousands of families with non-medical in-home care and assisted living referral services, making it one of six businesses in 2017 to receive Top Business of the Year awards at the J. Pat Beaird Industry & Top Businesses of the Year Awards Luncheon. Always Best Care resources include an extensive library to help the family make better-informed decisions on senior care and more. Their vision is to work as a united team providing the best care with the broadest range of services and the most loving and consistent care anywhere. All employee caregivers are screened, reference checked, drug screened, background cleared, driver’s license verified, and given approximately twenty hours of training in-house.

Always Best Care provides senior care in communities of Northwest Louisiana, including Caddo, Bossier, Webster, Claiborne, Red River, Sabine, and Natchitoches parishes, combining national strength and standards with local accessibility and personal service.

“Our goal is to join your family’s journey and provide the absolute best care plan for your loved one,” says Keith Carter. “Our entire team has your loved one’s best interest at heart, and we’ll ensure that exceptional service and care are provided to all family members.”

Owners Keith, Kimberly, Kennedy and Karrington Carter live in Shreveport with their dogs Krewes and Kash. Speak to one of their Care Managers today and let one of their 70 certified caregivers take care of you and your family.

For information, contact Always Best Care Senior Services at 318.424.5300 or www.abc-shreveport.com

MEETS SB ART & CULTURE

INthe realm of dentistry, where function meets aesthetics, a fascinating transformation takes place – the creation of a beautiful smile. Behind every radiant grin is the combination of an artist’s creativity and a scientist’s precision. In this article, we explore the world of smile design with Chuck Schutza, CDT, founder, and owner of CDS Dental Studio, Bossier City, LA. A Certified Dental Technician with an impressive 36 years of expertise, Chuck is a ceramics specialist.

Schutza’s journey into dental design began when, during a U.S. Air Force occupation test, he carved a tooth from soap. After nine years of service and graduating as a dental laboratory technician, he founded CDS Dental Studio.

“In 1987, I founded CDS Dental Studio in Bossier City, LA, with a clear mission: delivering top-quality dental restorations coupled with exceptional customer service,” said Schutza.

The Canvas: Teeth as a Medium

Imagine teeth as the canvas upon which this creative process unfolds. Each tooth, like a brushstroke on a painter’s canvas, plays a crucial role in the overall composition. Tooth designers, much like artists, use their expert knowledge of dental anatomy to determine the ideal size, shape, and position of each tooth. This is where the science of dentistry seamlessly blends with artistic intuition.

Color Palette: The Science of Shade Matching

One of the most captivating aspects of smile design is the intricate science of shade matching. Tooth color, much like a pigment on an artist’s palette, is meticulously chosen to achieve a natural and harmonious appearance. Advanced color-matching technology aids designers in selecting the perfect shade.

“Getting the perfect tooth color involves considering skin tone and preferences, blending color-matching technology with our artistic eye. It’s vital because it ensures a natural

Smile DeSign:

WHERE Art

SCIENCE

and complementary appearance,” Schutza explains.

Brushstrokes: Materials and Techniques

designers customize each smile to suit the individual. Patient preferences and desires are considered alongside the science of facial proportions and dental health. Schutza emphasizes the importance of prioritizing patient preferences and personality.

“Through open communication, we create a smile that aligns with their vision while also adhering to scientific principles for facial proportions and dental health.”

The Technological Canvas: 3D Modeling and Digital Precision

In the modern era, technology has become an integral part of the smile design process. Digital tooth designers use 3D

HOW DOYOU SERVE?

By Ursula Brantley

Serving others means doing good for another living creature. Giving of yourself without expecting anything in return. There’s no such thing as quid pro quo when it comes to service. Serving helps the servant just as much as those being served. For several years, Drena and Guy Dodson have earnestly pursued their call to service in many ways. In 2020, they answered yet another call to spearhead the service organization 5 Loaves & 2 Fish. It’s a Christian organization on a mission to help those in need create self-sufficiency through services and programs while encouraging them to give back by serving their community. They are showing the love of Christ and modeling a New Testament community of living, serving, working, and worshipping together in the Lakeside/Queensborough area of Shreveport.

The call to start the organization was presented to Drena and Guy after moving from their home in Broadmoor Terrace to a townhouse in Shreveport’s Lakeside area. As members of Celebration Church, the couple has been a part of foreign missions in places like Belize and Kenya since 2017. In 2019, the call to serve at home rang. Drena said, “We felt a prompting through the Holy Spirit that our “stuff” and 2,800 square foot home were in the way of our calling. We made the mutual decision to sell our house and give away or sell almost everything in it”. They prayed for direction and were led to Lakeside. Shortly after moving, the couple began volunteering at the food pantry next door. At that time, it was called Changing Directions Ministries and was run by a woman named Ms. Turner. In January 2020, they learned Ms. Turner would be moving out of town and the food pantry would be closing. Instead of letting over 100 families suffer, they decided to step up and take over the pantry. They began serving the community under the name 5 Loaves & 2 Fish in May 2020 and the rest is history. As of September 2023, 5L2F has helped 267 families. They hired their one and only staff member this year. They began with 5 volunteers plus their 2 kids

and their spouses. Today, they have 31 consistent volunteers and regular assistance from other churches and organizations.

The food pantry remains stocked for community families in Shreveport. Though the NWLA Food Bank does provide goods, much of the pantry is provided for through the ministry’s finances, donations, and community effort. For example, Panera Bread in Shreveport allows them to pick up bread on Thursday and Friday nights at closing. 5L2F then freezes that bread until distribution time. Says Dodson, “If someone wants to do a food drive, we ask them to concentrate on supplying food for our homeless bags such as pop-top can goods, tuna packs, etc.” Because of USDA restrictions the food pantry is limited to Shreveport residents. All their other services are open to anyone in need though their focus is the Lakeside/Queensborough area. They offer a diaper bank to help those with babies and toddlers, Bible studies and other groups, and a media center for the community.

Their Christmas Blessings program was born of their obedience to selling their belongings and moving back in 2018. What began as a giveaway on Facebook Marketplace grew into a community mission to spread love. In their first year, the Dodsons and a host of generous others were able to help 7 families. As of 2022, 70 families have received Christmas trees with all the trimmings and goodies and 283 children have gotten presents, stockings, and clothes. The purpose of Christmas Blessings isn’t to take over for the parent, but to empower them. Says Dodson, “They can have Christmas presents under the tree and a Christmas morning experience with their children. The child doesn’t even have to know we were involved”.

In October 2023, the 5L2F fundraiser called 300 for 300 will begin. The goal is to help 300 families by 2024 through one-time donations of $300 or $25/month. They also take part in an annual Women’s Conference which takes place the same month and a Men’s Conference in February. They also host a Kid’s Camp in the summer, and they just launched an After-School Chill Spot for middle and high school students. Anyone who would like to donate to 5L2F can mail a check to 1638 Dilg League Dr.; Shreveport, LA 71109, go to their website www.5loaves-2fish.life, stop by their offices at 3966 Lakeshore Drive in Shreveport.

We felt a prompting through the Holy Spirit that our “stuff” and 2,800 square foot home were in the way of our calling. We made the mutual decision to sell our house and give away or sell almost everything in it-Drena

State-of-the-art

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.

Book your next visit to Ridgeland at www.visitridgeland.com/stay

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR A GIFT GUIDE!

SCORE PERFORMED LIVE BY ORQUESTA FOLCLÓRICA NACIONAL DE MÉXICO

HIS FAMILY’S BAFFLING GENERATIONS-OLD BAN ON MUSIC, Miguel (voice of Anthony Gonzalez) dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (voice of Benjamin Bratt). Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Héctor (voice of Gael García Bernal), and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history. Disney and Pixar’s COCO is directed by Lee Unkrich (Toy Story 3), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist Monsters University) and produced by Darla K. Anderson (Toy Story 3).

DESPITE

DISNEY AND PIXAR’S COCO features an original score from Oscar®-winning composer Michael Giacchino, “Remember Me” by Oscar winners Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, and additional songs co-written by Germaine Franco and co-director and screenwriter Adrian Molina. The film won Academy Awards® for Animated Feature Film and Original Song (“Remember Me”).

Sunday, NOVEMBER 5, 2023 • 4:30 PM

NOT is DOCTOR CHOOSING A a Game!

By Seva May

Every year SB Magazine publishes what has become to many of our readers a guide for finding a doctor that will meet their needs. The Top Doctors of Shreveport-Bossier are selected by peer vote. We ask the question “If you or a loved one needed a doctor for any reason, who would be your choice?” A list of these choices is published on our website (www. sbmag.net) and enhanced listings are printed and distributed throughout Shreveport-Bossier and the surrounding area. Although our Top Doctors’ List can serve as a convenient reference, we strongly recommend you do your own, thorough research before you make an appointment. Here are some steps we strongly recommend when it comes to finding the right doctor for you.

It is important to first assess your healthcare needs and preferences. This involves identifying your health concerns and the type of care you require. For instance, if you have a chronic condition, you may need a specialist who has experience in managing your specific condition. It is also important to consider the type of care you prefer, such as a doctor taking a more holistic

approach or focusing on evidence-based medicine. Understanding your healthcare needs and preferences can help you narrow down your search for a doctor who can meet your specific needs.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a doctor is your insurance coverage. It is important to ensure that the doctor you choose is covered by your insurance plan to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. You can contact your insurance provider for a list of in-network doctors in your area. Some insurance plans may require a referral from your primary care physician before seeing a specialist, so it is important to check your plan's requirements.

Identifying your personal preferences can help you find a doctor who is a good fit for you. This can include factors such as the doctor's gender, age, and communication style. It may also be helpful to consider the doctor's location and availability, especially if you require frequent appointments or have mobility issues. Talking to family and friends about their experiences with their doctors can also provide valuable insight and recommendations. Ultimately, finding a doctor who aligns with your healthcare needs and personal preferences can lead to a more positive and effective healthcare experience.

Research potential doctors and their qualifications

When choosing a doctor, it is important to research their credentials and certifications to ensure they are qualified to provide medical care. One way to check a doctor's credentials is to verify their board certification. To do this, go to the American Board of Medical Specialties website and use the "Is My Doctor Certified?" look-up service. You can check the status of a doctor's license by visiting your state's medical board website or calling the medical board directly. By verifying a doctor's credentials, you can ensure that they have the necessary education and training to provide quality medical care.

In addition to checking a doctor's credentials, reviewing their experience and specialties is important. You can search for a doctor's experience and specialties on websites such as Healthgrades or Zocdoc. It is important to note that a doctor may be board-certified in one discipline but practicing in another, so it is essential to ensure that their practice aligns with your health needs.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a doctor is researching patient reviews and feedback. While clinical ratings provided by the government are important, non-clinical ratings

from commercial websites can also be valuable in helping patients make informed decisions. Websites such as Yelp or Healthgrades allow patients to leave reviews and provide feedback on their experiences with a particular doctor. By reading patient reviews, you can gain insight into a doctor's bedside manner, communication skills, and overall patient satisfaction.

Schedule a consultation or appointment

One of the first steps in choosing a doctor is to schedule an initial consultation or appointment. This appointment provides an opportunity to meet the doctor, discuss any concerns or questions, and determine if they are a good fit for your needs. It is important to choose a doctor whom you feel comfortable with and trust to provide quality care.

Preparing for the appointment is another important step in choosing a doctor. This includes transferring any relevant medical records, especially if you are new to the healthcare system. Being prepared with a list of questions or concerns can also help ensure that you get the most out of the appointment. It is important to be open and honest with your doctor about your medical history, symptoms, and any concerns you may have.

Asking the right questions during the appointment is crucial in determining if the doctor fits your needs. Questions may include asking about their experience and qualifications, their approach to treatment, and their availability for appointments. Additionally, it is important to ask about the doctor's communication style and how they prefer to communicate with patients. By asking the right questions and being prepared, individuals can make an informed decision in choosing the right doctor for their needs.

Evaluate the doctor and decide.

When choosing a doctor, it is important to assess the quality of care received. Evaluating the quality of care can be challenging, but there are resources available to help. For example, the Donabedian model of healthcare quality, which includes three components: structure, process, and outcomes, can be used to evaluate the quality of care provided by a doctor. Additionally, there are various physician quality measurement sets available that can provide insight into a doctor's quality of care. It is essential to research and review these resources to ensure that the doctor you choose provides high-quality care.

In addition to assessing the quality of care, it is also crucial to consider the doctor's communication skills. Effective communication between a doctor and patient is essential for building a strong patient-doctor relationship and ensuring that the patient receives the best possible care. Patients should look for doctors who listen actively, ask open-ended questions, and explain medical information in a clear and understandable way. Patients should also feel comfortable asking questions and discussing concerns with their doctor. One way to promote further discussion is by asking "How" or "Why" questions instead of yes/ no questions. By considering a doctor's communication skills, patients can establish a strong and productive relationship with their doctor. It may be helpful to make use of today’s technology and record conversations with the doctor. Using a cell phone to record can come in handy if a patient has difficulty remembering what is discussed and can also be useful in deciding what questions to ask during subsequent visits.

After assessing the quality of care and considering the doctor's communication skills, patients can make an informed decision

and establish a long-term relationship with their chosen doctor. Patients should consider their personal preferences, such as the doctor's location, availability, and office hours, when making their decision. It’s worth mentioning again that patients should also consider their insurance coverage and the doctor's network affiliation. Getting the bill and then discovering that insurance does not cover the expense can be life-changing for some patients. Once a doctor is chosen, patients should establish a longterm relationship by scheduling regular check-ups and appointments and communicating openly with their doctor about any health concerns. By following these steps, patients can choose a doctor who provides high-quality care and will establish a productive and long-lasting patient-doctor relationship.

What about those people who just won’t go see a doctor? Too often people put off going to the doctor because they are afraid of what they might find out. For some, it is a true fear. The medical term is iatrophobia (Iatros – the Greek word for healer and phobos which means fear) Fear of the unknown will always cause anxiety but there are ways of breaking this cycle. The first step is to make an appointment to rule out anything serious. Once you know what “ails you,” the correct treatment plan can be implemented and before you know it, the anxiety is significantly reduced. Besides, Shreveport and Bossier City have some of the finest, most qualified physicians in the country who have made north Louisiana their home. Patients travel to them from all over the United States for specialized care. You’re in excellent hands.

SB Magazine is pleased to present the annual Top Doctors and Dentists 2023 Issue. Voted on by their peers, these individuals are considered to be the best in their respective fields.

SHREVEPORT BOSSIER FAMILY DENTAL CARE DENTISTRY

For over 36 years, Shreveport Bossier Family Dental Care has been a dental office like no other. They’ve pushed boundaries with innovation and technology and shaped the smiles of the Shreveport-Bossier City community with their expertise.

Many of their talented, cutting edge dentists have special niches that ensure patients get a quality experience each visit. They’re constantly learning from each other to become better dentists and clinicians. Seminars and continuing education courses are the norm, and new information learned is shared between colleagues.

Each patient is provided an individualized dental plan that ensures comfort, trust, and relaxation while in the dental chair. Patients are made to feel at ease and at home during office visits — just like they are part of the family. Painless, worry-free appointments are

the goal. Relationships are important — and so are beautiful, healthy smiles. With 5 locations across the Shreveport Bossier area and open 6 days a week, they can cater to the patient’s schedule or desired location. They not only routinely exceed patients’ expectations, but also go above and beyond to give everyone the best dental experience possible.

A wide range of insurance is accepted, and financial assistance is given to patients who need it. There is also a loyalty program available to make dental care affordable for patients without insurance benefits.

In 2014, they founded Trading Smiles, a free dental day in the spring, to service the needs of uninsured citizens in the community. Patients are able to trade two canned goods for a dental service such as a cleaning, extraction, or filling. The items are then donated to the NWLA

Food Bank.

3 Miles for Free Smiles, a 5K race and fundraiser that supports local oral and maxillofacial surgery teams, was founded in 2016. $13,000 has been raised for children at Shriner’s Hospital Shreveport and the LSU Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Teams for the repair of cleft lips and palates.

The staff provides services from routine cleanings, fillings, and cosmetics to full mouth reconstruction, dental implants, Invisalign, sleep related breathing disorder solutions, and Botulinum toxin and Dermal Fillers for facial esthetics and myofascial pain. Sedation dentistry is offered to patients for a more relaxing experience.

All twelve doctors participate in donated dental services. They’ve been able to donate over 1,312 hours of skill and give over $547,000 to those that need it most. They feel everyone should have the opportunity for a beautiful, healthy smile.

SHREVEPORTBOSSIERDENTAL.COM

2119 AIRLINE DRIVE, #700 BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111

910 W. BERT KOUNS

INDUSTRIAL LOOP SHREVEPORT, LA 71118

4955 N. MARKET ST., #500 SHREVEPORT, LA 71107

BOSSIER FAMILY DENTAL CARE FOR KIDS DENTISTRY

Shreveport Bossier Family Dental Care for Kids dentist, Bryan Stewart loves working with children every day and making their dental visits as comfortable as possible.

“When I was a child, my local dentist was awesome and inspired me to become one,” said Stewart, a Shreveport native who has been practicing for 28 years. “I love helping a child go from fearing a dentist visit to making it the best visit he or she has ever had.”

Stewart enjoys what he does, and can’t see himself doing anything else. He provides dentistry for infants, toddlers, and adolescents in a kidfriendly environment, and focuses on comprehensive care that will give kids a healthy smile that will last a lifetime. Services offered include cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions, and laser lip and tongue tip removal. All forms of sedation dentistry are available. Compassion and the desire to help are prerequisites to be a dentist, and Stewart has those qualities covered. He can best be described as jovial, and this trait has helped him relate to children and be more emphatic to parents and their situations.

“I love everyone at our office,” said Stewart. “There’s no ‘I’ in team, and everyone who works here tries to make each child’s visit pleasant.”

“We understand it can be difficult to get your kids to cooperate at the dentist,” Stewart said. “We do all we can to make them comfortable, and we have tools and techniques to do just that. Our mission is to help your child have an out-of-thisworld experience in an office that’s all about them!”

Stewart has been married to his high school sweetheart, Paige, since 1993. He has three daughters. His interests include hunting, fishing, and cooking, as well as spending time with his family.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US TOP DOCTORS FOR SB MAGAZINE!

Carlee

Morgan

Andrew

FAITH. FAMILY. COMMUNITY.

Southern Roots Dentistry is founded on three core values: Faith, Family, and Community.

We are proud to serve four wonderful local communities— Shreveport, Bossier, Minden, and Mansfield. Our doctors are committed to providing our patients with the best care using state-ofthe-art technology and a patientcentered approach.

Southern Roots Dentistry specializes in general dentistry and

can see all members of your family at any age. In addition to quality dental care, we also offer aesthetic procedures including clear aligners, botox, fillers, and threads. We can’t wait to serve you and your family.

Richard “Reed” Moore DDS

James Lowder DDS

Gilley DDS

Mary Elise Fox DDS, MPH

Vanzandt DDS

Murphy DDS

ROBOTIC SURGEONS

KAMEL BRAKTA, MD, FACS

MASTER SURGEON, BARIATRIC SURGERY, GENERAL SURGERY, WK ROBOTIC & LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY

Kamel Brakta, MD, FACS is board certified in general surgery by the American Board of Surgery. He completed medical school at LSU school of Medicine in Shreveport and his internship and residency at Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC.

2551 GREENWOOD ROAD, SUITE 311, SHREVEPORT, LA 71103 • 318-212-6270

WKRLSC.COM

JAMES B. BURKE, MD, FACS

GENERAL SURGERY, WK ADVANCED LAPAROSCOPIC & ROBOTIC SURGERY

James B. Burke, MD, FACS is board certified in general surgery by the American Board of Surgery. He completed medical school at LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and his internship and residency at LSU Shreveport. He completed a laparoscopic minimally invasive fellowship at Willis Knighton Medical Center in Shreveport.

2551 GREENWOOD RD. STE 310

SHREVEPORT, LA 71103 • 318-212-6070

ARK-LA-TEX DERMATOLOGY DERMATOLOGY

Because your skin care needs change throughout your life, you’ll want a dermatologist who is skilled in medical, surgical, and aesthetic dermatology. Doctors Josephine Futrell, Sarah Glorioso, Sarah Baker, and Elizabeth Clemons are all certified dermatologists by the American Board of Dermatology and each has extensive experience in the medical and surgical care of adults, children, and teens as well as aesthetic dermatology. The doctors offer free cosmetic consultations to assure that the correct skincare products and/or procedures are selected.

There are two different offices, one in Shreveport and one in Bossier City, that have full-time aestheticians who offer appointments Monday – Friday 8:00am –5:00pm. Each offices features spa services including facials, waxing, chemical peels, spray tans, and more. They also offer numerous top of the line skin care products and makeup to help you look your best.

Ark-La-Tex Dermatology offers the area’s most innovative and efficient laser options. They have lasers that can help with acne scars, wrinkles, fine lines, pigment abnormalities, hair removal, and unwanted tattoos.

Cosmetic Services

• Injectables such as Botox, Juvederm, Restylane, Dysport, Daxxify and Radiesse.

• CoolSculpting Elite – The only FDA cleared non-surgical fat-reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling to eliminate stubborn fat that resists diet and exercise

• Morpheus 8 - This treatment uses radiofrequency energy to remodel skin, fat and tissue to address signs of aging, irregularities, and pigmentation on the face and neck. The body treatment uses radiofrequency energy to coagulate fat, tone muscles, remodel skin and address cellulite.

• Fraxel Dual Laser Treatment – This treatment improves tone, texture and radiance for aging, sun-damaged or scarred skin. This treatment is for people who want to look younger without dramatic changes or extended downtime.

• Splendor X Laser Hair Removal – This state-of-the-art machine makes laser hair removal less painful, messy and is highly effective. It is ideal for all skin types with faster and fewer sessions.

• Chemical Peels / Hydrafacial – treat skin conditions such as acne, unwanted pigment and fine lines

Ark-La-Tex Dermatology offers different specials and discounts on products and procedures throughout the month. Check the website often for these deals or join our e-mail list so you will never miss a special promotion! You can also follow us on Facebook @Ark-La-Tex Dermatology or Instagram @arklatexdermatology

JOSEPHINE M. FUTRELL, MD, PHD • SARAH G. BAKER, MD • SARAH E. GLORIOSO, MD • ELIZABETH CLEMONS, MD

RECONSTRUCTIVE PROCEDURES

TOTAL

RHEUMATOID

FOOT

CARTILAGE

ACHILLES

Innovative Orthopaedic Surgeons

Dr. Ben Feibel is a Fellowship

Trained Orthopaedic Hip and Knee Reconstruction Surgeon. He is passionate about providing the latest innovative orthopaedic procedures to patients in his hometown.

Ben Feibel, MD

Hip & Knnee Reecoonsttruuction Surggeon

• H Hip and Knee Reeconsttruuction Surggery

• R Reevisiion Hip and Knnee Reeconsttruuction Surggery y

• T Total Joint Reeplacements

• H Hip Labraal Tears s

• G Generaal Ortthopedics

Dr. George Byram is a Fellowship

Trained Orthopaedic Surgeon in Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy. Dr. Byram is a leader in innovative robotic assisted joint replacement procedures, offering patients quicker and easier recoveries.

George Byram,MD

Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Surgeon

• R Roobotic Assssiistted Total Joint Reeplacement Surggery y

• M Miinimally I Innvasiive Arrtthroosccopic Surggical Prroocedurees

• A Addvanced Surggical Reepair of Coomplex Frraactures

• C Compreehensiive Treeatment of Sportts Innjuriies

• N Naavigated Peerssoonalizeed Shoulder Reeplacements

• M Miinimally Innvasiive Rootator Cuuff Treeatment

WILLIS-KNIGHTON CARDIOLOGY CARDIOLOGY

Front Row:

• Boshra F. Louka, MD FACC, FSCAI

• Basel Kasabali, MD, FACC

• Ajaya K. Tummala, MD, FACC

• Phillip A. Rozeman, MD, FACC

• W. Britton Eaves, II, MD, FACC

• Frederick J. White, MD, FACC, FCCP

• Amber M. Shah, MD, MPH

Back Row:

• Tina Firouzbakht, MD

• Jagan Beedupalli, MD, MPH, FACC

• Paul G. Cole, MD, FACC

• Michael Langiulli, MD, FACC

• Wenwu Zhang, MD, PhD, FACC

• Michael Megaly, MD, MS, FSCAI, FACC

Experience

Largest cardiology practice serving Willis-Knighton Health System, bringing more than 200 years of combined cardiology experience and practice to our region.

Expertise

Leaders in minimally invasive management in the treatment of coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, abnormal heart rhythms, aneurysmal repair, valvular

heart disease and heart failure.

Excellence

Cardiologists with educational experience from premier cardiology programs from across the country.

Easy Access

Ten office locations in northwest Louisiana, including Willis-Knighton Heart & Vascular Institute (North), WK Pierremont Health Center, WK Bossier Health Center, Willis-Knighton South & the Center for Women’s Health, as well as locations in Minden, Ruston, Homer, Natchitoches, Vivian and Springhill.

History of Innovation

The physicians and staff of WillisKnighton Cardiology, have a longstanding tradition of leadership and innovation in the field of cardiology. Their commitment to fostering the stateof-the art in cardiovascular care has resulted in the practice and its members achieving numerous “firsts” in cardiology for the Ark-La-Tex. The following is a partial listing of the achievements credited to our team:

• Implantation of first dual-chamber pacemaker device

• Performance of first intracoronary balloon and stent procedure

• Performance of advanced PVD stent procedures

• Performance of first rotational atherectomy procedure

• Performance of first aortoiliac repair via stent procedure for aortic aneurysmal repair

• Performance of first carotid artery stenting procedure

• Performance of first TAVR – aortic valve replacement percutaneously without surgery

Serving the Ark-La-Tex with offices in Shreveport, Bossier City, Minden, Natchitoches, Vivian, Homer, Ruston and Springhill.

WWW.WKCARDIOLOGY.COM

ALWAYS HERE... ALWAYS NEAR… ALWAYS CARING FOR YOU

COSSE & SILMON ORTHODONTICS ORTHODONTICS

Dr. Chris Cosse and Dr. Jeff Silmon are creating beautiful smiles in Shreveport-Bossier and surrounding areas using emerging technologies and progressive techniques. They are known as the “Smile Artists,” a title they have earned by creating wide, aesthetically pleasing smiles for their patients. They are also considered leaders in the field of orthodontics. Their four convenient office locations boast the latest orthodontic technologies available, and their award-winning staff delivers un-matched customer service.

ONE QUESTION WE HEAR QUITE OFTEN IS: DO I HAVE TO COME INTO THE OFFICE TO HAVE MY SMILE EVALUATED?

It is no longer necessary to go to the orthodontic office for your initial orthodontic consultation. You can do a Virtual Consultation from the comfort of your own home. Cosse and Silmon Orthodontics has taken full advantage of the advances in tele-dentistry, allowing patients to receive feedback regarding their bites and smiles without having to come in to the office. We will evaluate 21 points of your bite and smile and send you a customized report for free—usually within 24-48 hours! Also, by completing a Virtual Consultation we can monitor your child’s growth and development in order to give you an idea of the best timing to get started with treatment. Go to OrthoScreening.com and type in the code CAQN92 to start your free smile

screening today! It’s as easy as Smile. Snap.Send™.

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION ONLINE.

SHREVEPORT 230 CARROLL ST, STE 1 SHREVEPORT, LA 71105

318.869.1248

BOSSIER CITY 4001 VIKING DRIVE STE A BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111

318.213.5437

COSSEORTHO.COM

CSOCLEAR.COM

STONEWALL 4974 LA-3276, STE G STONEWALL, LA 71078 318.869.1248

MINDEN 164 COUNTRY CLUB DRIVE STE A MINDEN, LA 71055 318.869.1248

WK EYE INSTITUTE OPHTHALMOLOGY/ OPTOMETRY

The WK Eye Institute, which has three locations, provides cutting-edge eye care for everyone, from children to adults. The Institute includes both ophthalmologists and optometrists to perform primary eye care and surgery. Eye surgery is offered at the WK Eye Surgery Center and the WK Refractive Surgery Center to provide patients with the most advanced eye technology in the region, including SMILE – a 3rd Generation Laser Vision Correction.

What types of care do the doctors offer most?

• Laser Cataract Surgery

• Refractive Surgery, such as LASIK

• General Eye Exams

• Corneal Cross-Linking

• Glasses & Contact Lenses

• Treatment of Glaucoma and Macular Degeneration

• iStent for Glaucoma

• Emergency Eye Care

While these services are typical, the doctors are there to address whatever eye issues a patient may have, always focusing on compassionate care that is personalized to each patient’s needs.

WK EYE INSTITUTE PIERREMONT 7607 YOUREE DRIVE SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 318-212-3937

WK EYE INSTITUTE NORTH 2611 GREENWOOD RD SHREVEPORT, LA 71103 318-212-2020

WK EYE INSTITUTE SOUTH 2530 BERT KOUNS INDUSTRIAL LOOP, SUITE 116 SHREVEPORT, LA 71118 318-212-5901

WWW.WKEYEINSTITUTE.COM

WYCHE T. COLEMAN, III, M.D.

JAMES P. SWEARINGEN, JR., M.D.

ASHLEY WHEAT SIPES, M.D.

CHRISTOPHER L. SHELBY, M.D.

DAVID D. BRYAN, M.D.

STEPHEN W. LEWIS, O.D.

KAREN E. EZELLE, O.D.

JOHN LUKA, O.D.

SEAN ADAMS, O.D. ANTHONY “AJ” BARBIERO, O.D.

FOSTER ORTHODONTICS ORTHODONTICS

Foster Orthodontics is a family affair.

Dr. Benjamin E. Foster started Foster Orthodontics in Shreveport in 1982. His son, Dr. Benjamin C. Foster, joined the practice in 2012 to carry on the legacy of creating beautiful smiles just like his father. Dr. Allison Haynie joined the Foster Orthodontics family in 2020. Foster Orthodontics has three locations in Shreveport, Bossier City, and Stonewall. Foster Orthodontics specializes in Orthodontic therapy, including adult and child treatments with metal or clear brackets and clear aligners.

Orthodontics is about more than just teeth, according to Dr. Benjamin Foster of Foster Orthodontics. It’s about improving self-confidence and appearance. It’s for people missing teeth, with jaw problems or other facial issues that prevent the proper function of the teeth. To correct a wide range of orthodontic issues, Foster Orthodontics specializes in the Damon System (clear and metal braces) along with clear aligner therapy.

“I like to see patients initially about the age of seven. You can catch small

problems early with easy solutions that prevent big problems down the road. Anyone that has healthy teeth and supporting structure is a candidate for orthodontics. Age has no bearing on it. I have a 95-year-old lady I saw this morning,” said Dr. Foster. Patients have come to depend on Foster Orthodontics for generations. Last month, they treated the great grandchild of a patient.

“There is an art and a science to orthodontics,” he said, and that’s what drew him to follow in his father’s footsteps. It’s really a family affair since his mom, Pam Foster, is the office manager. But there’s also a lot of orthodontic experience in the office, according to Dr. Foster, who joined his parents a little over eight years ago. “My dad has been doing it for 38 years. Combined, the staff has over 300 years of orthodontic experience. Three of our assistants have 25 years, four have 20 years of experience,” he said.

The trademark Pac Man machines that have been in the waiting area since the 70th St. office opened over 30 years ago

add a homey feel to the environment. There’s a coffee and juice bar and areas for younger children to play.

“Advances in technology have revolutionized orthodontics.” said Dr. Allison. “With digital applications in orthodontics, we are able to scan our patient’s teeth and virtually plan their treatment. We use in-house 3D printers to fabricate our own clear aligners, maintaining complete control instead of using a third party provider. We also use this technology to precisely position brackets and improve patient experience through a technique called ‘indirect bonding.’”

“It is all about our patients. We love getting to know each one, and customer service is huge for us,” said Dr. Foster.

“My dad told me when I first came into practice, ‘You treat every single one of these patients like they are your child, your mother, your sister, your wife and you’ll be fine.’ I stand by that. And I sleep very well at night.”

DR. BEN E. FOSTER, DR. ALLISON HAYNIE, DR. BENJAMIN C. FOSTER

GOVERNALE GENERAL DENTISTRY DENTISTRY

Dentistry for Dr. Governale was an easy decision because it is a profession that requires artistic precision with your hands while simultaneously improving lives.

Dr. Governale is from Morgan City, Louisiana, and attended Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana, before earning his dental degree from LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans. He is a United States Air Force Veteran, having completed a general practice residency at Barksdale Air Force Base during Desert Storm. Since 1994, he has been practicing in Natchitoches, Louisiana, where he has built a reputable career. Dr. Governale is a lifelong learner and acquired an Affiliate Associate Fellow status upon completion of

the American Association of Implant Dentistry’s MaxiCourse at Georgia Regents University in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2013. Additionally, he is a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. Governale’s daughter transferred to Loyola College Prep in 2015, and after she graduated, Dr. Governale and his wife decided to stay in Shreveport and make it their permanent home instead of leaving their church family and friends. For the past eight years, he has been commuting to his Natchitoches office, but now he has opened a Shreveport location. Many of his Natchitoches patients enjoy spending their day shopping and eating out after visiting his office in Shreveport.

In his spare time, Dr. Governale enjoys

reading, working out, spending time with his wife Elizabeth, fishing, golfing, and watching LSU and Saints football. At Governale General Dentistry, our team is dedicated to providing the best dental care. Our services include cosmetic, restorative, and sedation dentistry. In addition to basic restorative procedures, we provide dental implant dentistry services from start to finish. For exceptional dentistry please call our office for an appointment.

8691 LINE AVE, #300, SHREVEPORT, LA 318-670-8830

GOVERNALEGENERALDENTISTRY. COM/

HENDERSON DENTISTRY,LLC GENERAL DENTISTRY

AtHenderson Dentistry LLC, Dr. Marlon D. Henderson provides state of the art, comprehensive oral health care in a comfortable, friendly, and professional setting. The latest technology in digital radiography and imaging is being utilized to help meet the individual dental needs and desires of Shreveport-Bossier City and surrounding communities.

Dr. Marlon D. Henderson is a native of Shreveport, Louisiana. He is a graduate of Northwood High School, where he was Class Valedictorian. Dr. Henderson graduated from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge with a Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology (minor in chemistry). He received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry in New Orleans. Dr. Marlon D. Henderson then completed a General Practice Residency at the Medical Center of Louisiana (Charity Hospital) in New Orleans, where he served as Chief Resident.

Dr. Marlon D. Henderson currently serves as the 99th President of the National Dental Association. In 2023, the NDA is “Bridging the Generational Gap: Back to the Future of Advancing Oral Health Equity, Student Mentorship, and Raising Our Profile.” Under his leadership, the NDA participated in Nasdaq’s “Ringing the Bell” Ceremony, launched a S.M.I.L.E. Healthcare Pathway Mentorship Project in Washington DC, celebrated 10 Years of NDA-HEALTH NOW (community outreach), offered greetings at Howard University College of Dentistry’s Commencement, enjoyed a reception at LSU School of Dentistry during the 110th Annual NDA Convention in New Orleans, and collaborated with other dental organizations at dental meetings across the nation including at the National Institutes of Health.

In October 2023, the NDA will receive the Ethics and Professionalism Award from the American College of Dentists. Additionally, Dr. Henderson will be inducted as a Fellow in the American College of Dentists.

Regionally, Dr. Henderson is the current Chairman of the Medical and Health Initiatives Committee for the Ninth District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. And, he is the local Dr.

Charles R. Drew Blood Drive Chairman for the Rho Omega Chapter.

In his spare time, Dr. Henderson enjoys traveling, all things LSU, and family time with his wife Nikki and son Maxwell.

DR. MARLON D. HENDERSON

318-68-SMILE

9096 WALKER ROAD

SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA 71118

HENDERSONDENTISTRY.NET

JETER THERAPY GROUP OUTPATIENT THERAPY SERVICES

Jeter Therapy Group is a locally owned multidisciplinary clinic that specializes in Speech, Myofunctional, Occupational and Physical therapy. For over ten years, we have offered quality healthcare in the surrounding North Louisiana communities. Our mission is to provide evidenced-based assessment and treatment to pediatric and adult populations. We develop and implement patient specific plans and educate/train caregivers to carryover those plans in the natural environment. We currently have two locations: Shreveport and Haughton and our new location will open this fall in Natchitoches, LA.

Services:

• Speech Therapy: Our professional team is highly trained to evaluate and treat speech/language

disorders, swallowing/feeding, voice disorders, cognitive/memory disorders, social pragmatics and orofacial myofunctional disorders.

• Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy: Where does your tongue live? Do you breathe through your mouth or nose? How does dentition affect your ability to say certain sounds/ words or chew foods? Orofacial myofunctional therapy focuses on the muscles of the mouth and face in order to re-educate or retrain clients how to swallow, breathe, speak and proper tongue posture. Orofacial Myofunctional disorders affect all ages.

• Occupational Therapy: Specialized care for fine and gross motor skills

development, handwriting, feeding, activities of daily living, sensory, self-care, early intervention, Orthopedic rehabilitation including progressive range of motion, strengthening exercises, and splint fabrication, visual perceptual training.

• Physical Therapy: Offering personalized care for pediatric developmental/ambulation training, strength/range of motion, balance and coordination, flexibility to increase range of motion, pain management, adaptive play, transfer and adaptive equipment assessments.

We are honored to be recognized in this year’s edition of Top Doctors for the Shreveport Bossier community!

1950 E. 70TH ST. SUITE A SHREVEPORT, LA 71105

966 US-80 HAUGHTON, LA 711037 (318) 219-6064

WWW.JETERSLPSERVICES.COM

Picture: (left to right) , Kaitlin Prosinski, OT/R, Rebkah Cole, DPT, Dana Williams, SLP, Riley McDaniel, SLP and Kaitlyn Nixon, OT/R

Photographer: Chalea Devoite

Holiday Depression is Very Real Don’t spend another season struggling alone!

Substance Abuse & Overdose Numbers rise dramatically during this time of year!

DON’T WAIT WE CAN HELP

CULTIVATING A HEALTHY BODY & MIND

KIT GAMBLE CEO/FOUNDER

RANDY DAVIS, MD CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER

CESAR GONZALES, MD MEDICAL DIRECTOR/ ADDICTIONOLOGIST

WHY CHOOSE LINCOLN NOVA VITAL RECOVERY

Unlike most drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers in Louisiana, we offer a true holistic approach to your recovery.  We treat both mental health and substance abuse, which means we work to find and treat the underlying cause of addiction through advanced therapies that have been proven to work. Our aftercare program is also second to none.

PRIVATE ROOMS

MEDICAL DETOX

SUBOXONE THERAPY

FITNESS CENTER

TRANSPORTATION PROVIDED ALL LOUISIANA MEDICAID ACCEPTED

DETOX, INPATIENT AND OUTPATIENT TREATMENT IN A BEAUTIFUL SETTING!

WE ARE HERE TO HELP. 100% CONFIDENTIAL. CALL (318) 224-4934

4396 HWY. 80, RUSTON, LA LINCOLNNOVA.COM

Louisiana’s Premier Addiction Treatment Facility. Fully JCAHO accredited.

LUSK EYE SPECIALISTS OPHTHALMOLOGY KEEPING YOUR FAMILY FOCUSED

It’s always been about family at Lusk Eye Specialists. It started more than three decades ago, when pioneering eye surgeon, James Lusk, MD and his wife Catherine packed up and moved to Shreveport to start his ophthalmology career. The drive up from Houston may not have been as exciting as going West during the Oklahoma land rush in the 1800s, but the Lusk journey has been every bit as fulfilling. After settling into Shreveport, it wasn’t long before the 2nd generation of Lusk eye surgeons - Bryan and Jeffrey - were born into the family. Fortunately for the family and local residents, the two boys decided to focus their professional careers in medicine. Even more fortunate was that Bryan & Jeffrey studied hard enough to earn the

right to specialize in ophthalmology. And perhaps what is the most fortunate of all, is that they chose to come home to Shreveport to join their father at Lusk Eye Specialists.

Since beginning their careers in Shreveport, numerous hallmark events have occurred with the Lusk family. The first and the most fun has been the addition of the 3rd generation of Lusks… who one day they hope will join their fathers and grandfather in continuing their tradition of eye care excellence in Shreveport. Bryan and Stephanie Lusk have been blessed with the additions of Wyatt & Iris Lusk. Jeffrey and Lauren Lusk have been equally blessed with their two children, Mae Francis and Austin Lusk.

They’ve taken the ‘Lusk Family’ approach to eye care to a whole new level. But the event that typifies the grandness of the Lusk family coming full circle in ophthalmology was when Dr. Bryan Lusk and Dr. Jeffrey Lusk worked together to perform cataract surgery on their father, Dr. James Lusk. Undergoing cataract surgery has not only increased the faith and confidence Dr. James Lusk has in the surgical skills of his 2 sons. It has made him a better cataract surgeon now knowing exactly what a cataract patient goes through before, during and after surgery.

The great circle of life has indeed taken place with the Lusk family…and they couldn’t be happier or more excited about the future.

WWW.LUSKEYE.COM

451 ASHLEY RIDGE BLVD. SHREVEPORT, LA 318.222.5555

MID CITY PEDIATRICS PEDIATRICS

Mid City Pediatrics has a history of providing outstanding patient care for children in Northwest Louisiana for over 30 years. Mid City Pediatrics is the oldest independently owned pediatric practice in the ShreveportBossier City community. With a combined clinical experience of more than 100 years of caring for children in our area, the doctors continue to provide excellent care to children of all ages.

Mid City Pediatrics is conveniently and centrally located near the intersection of I-20 and I-49. The office offers numerous amenities, including separate sick and well entrances and waiting areas, a certified lab, and on-site x-ray services. You will always find a cheerful atmosphere, kid-friendly exam rooms, and free Wi-Fi service offered for parents’ convenience.

Mid City Pediatrics is open 6 days a week,

and one of the seven physicians is always on call after hours. They offer same-day appointments along with walk-in visits. The physicians at Mid City Pediatrics feel that offering same-day sick walk-in visits are a necessary part of a pediatric practice. As parents themselves, they know that you cannot schedule when your child becomes ill and needs prompt pediatric care.

Mid City Pediatrics takes pride in being a completely independent practice, allowing them to stay progressive in a time of constant change. Mid City Pediatrics has been a front-runner in innovating and adapting to better serve its patients and their families. In 2020, they were the first pediatric practice in the area to offer a drive-through flu vaccine clinic. The practice offers an informational website as well as an active Facebook and Instagram page to keep parents informed on relevant

topics. Mid City Pediatrics also offers a convenient check-in process in which patients simply scan a QR code in the parking lot. This allows families the option of remaining in their vehicle for the duration of their wait, or they may choose to come inside to wait in one of the two waiting rooms. Once inside, patients are cared for by knowledgeable, caring staff trained in pediatric care.

The practice gained three new physicians over the last several years, making Mid City Pediatrics the largest pediatric practice in the area. The physicians make newborn hospital rounds at all private, community hospitals in the Shreveport and Bossier City areas, allowing more flexibility to patients. Mid City Pediatrics accepts most major insurance plans. The physicians welcome you to make an appointment today and become a member of the Mid City Pediatric family where you will receive “Great Care for Great kids!”

2225 LINE AVE.

SHREVEPORT, LA 318.221.2225

WWW.MIDCITYPEDS.COM

LEFT TO RIGHT: DAVID J. PACE, M.D., GRETCHEN G. PETTERWAY, M.D., BRYAN L. ROBERTS, M.D., ANGELA CUSH-JOHN, M.D., SCOTT E. RITCH, M.D., ELLE F. RATLIFF, M.D., AND JENNIFER P, COCKRELL, M.D.

Excellence in healthcare... close to home. Minden Medical Center is the only hospital in the southern portion of Webster Parish. We are an acute care hospital with 161 beds, and we serve a population of over 70,000 people.

Our goal is to deliver the best healthcare available in Webster, Claiborne, and Bienville Parishes We seek to make the entire community healthier, by focusing on you. Your body, your needs, your health. You are our top priority.

At Minden Medical Center, you are our most valuable asset. Patients are treated with dignity and respect by our outstanding team of talented physicians, dedicated employees, volunteers and board members.

We are passionate in our pursuit of excellence. We harness encouragement through the continued support from our community, from you.

Our single most important priority is delivering quality healthcare right here in Minden so you never have to travel far to see a doctor. We have it all – from primary care to orthopedics, to podiatry and more. Everything you need is right here, at home.

#1 Medical Plaza Minden, LA 71055 318.377.2321 www.mindenmedicalcenter.com

Kishore Malireddy, MD

Pallavi Shirsat, MD

Robert Russell, MD

Mark Wilson, MD

Erin Soleto, MD

Christopher Earnhardt, MD

William Whyte, II, MD

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH REGIONAL UROLOGY

Both Ochsner LSU Health and Regional Urology have a history of providing high-quality specialty care with strong commitment to research and innovation, offering the latest treatments for patients with chronic and complex medical conditions. With combined expertise and resources, patients have increased access to advanced urological and multidisciplinary care with cuttingedge treatments and technology.

Their team has put everything you need to know about men’s and women’s urology in one convenient place.

Ochsner LSU Health – Regional Urology physicians specialize in everything from cancer and reconstruction to male fertility.

MEN’S UROLOGY

• Male Fertility

• Vasectomy Reversal

• Advanced Prostate Cancer

• Hereditary Risk Clinic

• Overactive Bladder

• Low Testosterone

• Kidney Stones

WOMEN’S UROLOGY

• Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction (UPJ

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse

• Urinary Tract Infections

• Hematuria

• Kidney and Bladder Cancers

Ochsner LSU Health – Regional Urology physicians, extenders, nurses, medical assistants and staff boast the most combined experience of urology care in the area. They also train future physicians and specialists. Their main campus in Shreveport features an ambulatory surgery center, an oncology and radiation center, a clinic, an imaging center, a clinical research center, a clinical lab, and a pharmacy. Conveniently located at Bert Kouns Industrial Loop and I-49, the Regional Urology team works together to care for patients to give them a positive experience while receiving top-notch care.

REGIONALUROLOGY.COM

255 BERT KOUNS IND. LOOP | SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 | 318-683-0411

201 MCMILLAN ROAD | WEST MONROE, LA 71291 | 318-807-0994

424 DIXIE PLAZA | NATCHITOCHES, LA 71457 | 318-352-6883

ASHLEY BAKER, MD

JARED MOSS, MD

THOMAS PALMER, MD

DAVID PRICE, MD

ALISON SPANN, MD

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH WOMEN’S SERVICES

Ochsner LSU Health is proud to deliver exceptional and compassionate care to the women in our community. The OB/GYN physicians and specialists at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport are recognized throughout the region for their unique expertise. Committed to providing an excellent experience from annual well-woman exams and preventive screenings to birth control options, Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport has the care you need for all stages of life. With multiple locations, their physicians and patient care teams provide expert and compassionate care in a comfortable setting with new state-of-the-art equipment.

A full team of OB/GYNs to serve you. With more than 20 OB/GYN physicians and advanced practice providers dedicated to its patients, the newly renovated Women’s Health Center, Center for Perinatal Medicine and OB/ GYN Specialists clinics on the St. Mary Medical Center campus create a strong team to care for you. Gynecology and urogynecology will also soon be offered at their Viking Drive, multispecialty center in Bossier City.

GYNECOLOGIC SERVICES INCLUDE:

• Annual well-woman exams and preventive screenings

• Weight management and nutrition

• Birth control options

• Gynecologic surgery

• Infertility diagnosis, testing and management

• Pap testing: cervical cancer screening

• STD screenings

• State-of-the-art operating rooms

• Robotic surgery

• Urogynecology for pelvic floor disorders and incontinence

OBSTETRIC/MATERNITY SERVICES INCLUDE:

• Private, spacious labor and delivery suites designed for a comfortable, calming birth experience

• Beautiful new postpartum suites

• OB/GYNs and anesthesiologists on-site 24 hours a day

• Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

• Level II Nursery

• Breastfeeding and lactation support with International Board-Certified

Lactation Consultants

• Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists for high-risk pregnancies

• Pediatric and Neonatal Specialists

• Childbirth education classes

• Gorgeous Remodeled clinics

• Quick and convenient appointment scheduling through MyOchsner app

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT – WOMEN’S HEALTH CENTER, OB/GYN SPECIALISTS

1801 FAIRFIELD AVENUE, SUITE 106 | SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 | 318-626-0469

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT –CENTER FOR PERINATAL MEDICINE

1801 FAIRFIELD AVENUE, SUITE 106 | SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 | 318-626-0388

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT –OB/GYN SPECIALISTS

ONE ST. MARY PLACE, SUITE 160 | SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 | 318-626-2800

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT –ST. MARY MEDICAL CENTER

911 MARGARET PLACE | SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 | 318-626-4300

WELCOME, DR. KAYLA BURKHARDT!

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH ORTHOPEDICS AND SPORTS MEDICINE

Ochsner LSU Health offers comprehensive care for all surgical and nonsurgical orthopedic and sports medicine needs. Their physicians and patient care teams provide outstanding surgical and nonsurgical care by using the latest, most innovative technology and techniques. Dedicated to comprehensive care, their team works with patients every step of the way from diagnosis and treatment through follow-up appointments. In 2022, Ochsner Health announced an exclusive five-year partnership with internationally renowned orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist James Andrews, MD and the Andrews Institute to form The Ochsner Andrews Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute.

THEIR TEAM OF ORTHOPEDIC SURGEONS INCLUDES EXPERTS IN A WIDE RANGE OF SPECIALTIES, INCLUDING:

• Adult reconstruction

• Foot and ankle care

• Hand and upper-extremity care

• Pediatric orthopedic care

• Orthopedic trauma

• Soft-tissue reconstruction

• Spine care

• Sports medicine

• Total-joint replacement, including

hip and knee replacements

• Trauma

• Tumor surgery

The Ochsner LSU Health sports medicine team consists of physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists and athletic trainers. They focus on providing accurate diagnoses, optimizing nonoperative treatment of injuries and expertly guiding all aspects of a patient’s rehabilitative care needs. THEY OFFER A WIDE RANGE OF ATHLETIC SERVICES AND EXPERT CARE, SUCH AS:

• Preventive care and patient education

• Athletic training outreach

• Careful evaluation of return to work or play

• Nutrition and performance issues assessment

• Recommendations on appropriate strength training and conditioning activities

• Injury risk assessment and injuryprevention protocol development

• Physical exams for school, sports, work and preparticipation

• Weight-loss management

• Expert arthritis care

• Minor procedures

CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE OCHSNER LSU HEALTH TOP DOCTORS!

ORTHOPEDICS

Shane Barton, MD

Karl Bilderback, MD

Brad Chauvin, MD

Richard Harrell, MD

Steven Kautz, MD

Mario H. Lobao, MD

Andrew Zhang, MD

SPORTS MEDICINE

Kenneth Aguirre, MD

Ruikang Liu, MD

Patrick Massey, MD

Peter Seidenberg, MD

Charles Webb, DO

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH –ORTHOPEDIC AND SPORTS MEDICINE CENTER

950 OLIVE STREET | SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 | 318-813-7100

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH – VIKING DRIVE, MULTISPECIALTY CENTER

4481 VIKING DRIVE | BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 | 318-626-2593

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH – FERN AVENUE, PRIMARY CARE AND SPORTS MEDICINE

6841 FERN AVENUE | SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 | 318-626-4200

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH PRIMARY CARE

At Ochsner LSU Health, they take a comprehensive approach to care for your entire family. From infants to adults and all ages in-between, their primary care physicians are there to help care for your common cold, meet your health goals or manage a chronic illness. Their same-day or next-day appointments and online scheduling allow you to see a doctor on your schedule. Through the use of MyOchsner online or in the app, you can schedule your next appointment and communicate with your care team. You can also refill your prescriptions, view lab and test results, and check-in prior to appointments.

• Annual wellness exams (health screenings and checkups) and complete physicals

• Flu shots and other immunizations

• Health risk assessments

• Management of chronic conditions

• Treatment of acute (sudden and/or severe) injuries and issues

• Diagnosis and management of diseases

• Seasonal allergy treatment

• Referral access to specialized care when needed

CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE OCHSNER LSU HEALTH TOP DOCTORS!

Amanda Callegan-Poché, MD

Marc W. Chaudoir, MD

Paul Cooper, MD

Tammy Davis, MD

Kabiul Haque, MD

Elizabeth Hudnall, MD

Ammar Husan, MD

Cara Permenter, MD

Sarah Rainwater, MD

Jennifer Seidenberg, MD

Peter Seidenberg, MD

Wanda Thomas, MD

Russell Wayne Tynes, MD

Charles W. Webb, DO

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH – INTERNAL MEDICINE AND PEDIATRICS

1023 PROVENANCE PLACE BLVD. | SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 | 318-626-0100

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH – FERN AVENUE, PRIMARY CARE AND SPORTS MEDICINE

6841 FERN AVENUE | SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 | 318-626-4200

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH – SPRING LAKE, PRIMARY CARE

8445 LINE AVENUE, SUITE 100 | SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 | 318-626-4242

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH –COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER, ST. VINCENT

6670 ST. VINCENT AVENUE | SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 | 318-626-0050

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH – VIKING DRIVE, MULTISPECIALTY CENTER 4481 VIKING DRIVE | BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 | 318-626-2593

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH TRAUMA, EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE

Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport is North Louisiana’s premier Trauma Center providing care for pediatric and adult patients. Serving Louisiana, East Texas, South Arkansas, West Mississippi and Southeast Oklahoma, they offer some of the most advanced medical and surgical care available. Their Academic Medical Center in Shreveport is the region’s only Level I Trauma Center, verified by the American College of Surgeons. They are also recognized as a Pediatric Level II Trauma Program. The trauma physicians work in collaboration with medical students, residents and allied health personnel to ensure that quality care is provided.

In an emergency situation, seconds and minutes can make the difference between life and death. When you or a loved one needs emergency care, Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport’s Department of Emergency Medicine is there to help.

Each of Ochsner LSU Health’s four critical care units has the most advanced equipment and highly trained staff members with vast experience in providing intensive-care services for their patients. They have been recognized as a Center of Excellence for extracorporeal life support by the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization. Ochsner LSU Health

Shreveport is the only healthcare provider in our region with such recognition. In addition, their Intensive Care Unit (ICU) team exceeds the staffing standards established by The Leapfrog Group.

This same group of Ochsner LSU Health physicians and facilities that patients trust in an emergency are also there for your primary care and specialty care needs.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE OCHSNER LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT – ACADEMIC MEDICAL CENTER TRAUMA, EMERGENCY MEDICINE AND CRITICAL CARE TOP DOCTORS.

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT – ACADEMIC MEDICAL CENTER

1541 KINGS HIGHWAY | SHREVEPORT, LA 71103 | 318-626-0000

G. E. GHALI, DDS, MD, FACS, FRCS(Ed)

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY INSTITUTE

Renowned oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. G.E. Ghali is part of the Willis-Knighton Physician Network and is the senior partner in WK Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Institute. He performs procedures at Willis-Knighton’s South, North, Pierremont, and Bossier hospitals. Dr. Ghali’s leadership in his field has led to numerous honors. He has been heavily involved in research and scientific publication, as well as presentations at national and international events, including lectures to all branches of the military regarding the management of maxillofacial injuries.

Dr. Ghali has lived and practiced in Shreveport, Louisiana since 1993. His practice spans the full scope of craniomaxillofacial surgery. His professional interest lies in the treatment of pediatric craniofacial deformities including craniosynostosis, cleft lip and palate, and dentofacial deformities. However, his surgical and teaching interests also include cosmetic surgery, head and neck oncology, and maxillofacial trauma.

Nationally, Dr. Ghali has been involved in leadership positions within the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, American Dental Association, American College of Surgeons, and has served as an editor and editorial board member for six academic journals. Further, his international appointments have included chairmanship of the Education Committee of the International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and advisory or editorial board support for four international journals.

Dr. Ghali is married to his wife, Hope, and together they have four children, all proud to call ShreveportBossier City home.

2508 W BERT KOUNS INDUSTRIAL LOOP #410, SHREVEPORT, LA 71118

(318) 212-5944

WKHS.COM

THE ORTHOPAEDIC CLINIC ORTHOPEDICS

Ifyou need orthopedic care or orthopedic surgery, the physicians and surgeons at The Orthopaedic Clinic are available to help you. Their expert team practices in a convenient location in southeast Shreveport in the WK Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center at WK Portico Center. They offer patients excellent care using the most advanced techniques available. Orthopedists focus on the diagnosis, correction, prevention, and treatment of patients with musculoskeletal system problems.

J. Scott Bicknell, MD, specializes in general orthopedics, trauma and joint replacement. He earned his medical degree and completed his internship and residency at the LSU Medical Center in Shreveport.

Sports medicine is the specialty of Mark C. Callanan, Jr., MD. He attended medical school at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine and completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at the Harvard Combined Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program.

John J. Ferrell, MD, specializes in general orthopedics and shoulder and knee surgery. He attended the University of Notre Dame and earned his medical degree at Tulane University School of Medicine.

Henry Hilario, DPM, is a podiatrist who specializes in surgery of the foot and ankle. He received his podiatric medical training in Chicago, Illinois, and completed residency at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas, with a focus on reconstructive and ankle surgery.

Sylvanus Ly, DO, specializes in sports medicine for young teens through senior adults. He has extensive training and experience working with sports teams, including concussion management. An expert in diagnostics, Dr. Ly’s primary role is to assess and diagnose both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

Milan G. Mody, MD, is a spine surgery specialist. He attended the University of Pennsylvania Medical School and completed his residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch Hospitals. Dr. Mody specializes in both neck surgery and minimally invasive back surgery.

Edward Morgan, MD, is a sports medicine and joint replacement guru. He completed medical school and served his surgery residency at Vanderbilt University.

Cambize Shahrdar, MD, focuses on knees and hip and knee replacements. He earned his undergraduate degree and medical degree at the University of Miami.

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY OF SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER DENTISTRY

Pediatric Dentistry of ShreveportBossier is changing the way children think about a visit to the dentist.

WE THINK GOING TO THE DENTIST SHOULD BE FUN FOR EVERYONE!

Our Doctors, Jason Gambill, Corey Could, Nancy Ly, Thomas Sanchez, Srivarsha Ponna and Allison Johnson believe children can look forward to a visit to their offices as an adventure that’s fun, informative, and as pleasant as possible.

Our top docs and team are passionate about preparing your children for a lifetime of healthy and happy smiles! And with six convenient locations in Shreveport, Bossier City, Natchitoches, Minden, Ruston, and Alexandria, it is now easier than ever to come check us out and see what makes our offices so great!

PREPARING YOUR KIDS FOR A LIFETIME OF HEALTHY AND HAPPY SMILES ISN’T JUST OUR JOB, IT IS SOMETHING WE HAVE FUN DOING!

Whether your child needs a routine check-up, a specialized treatment, or emergency dental aid, Pediatric Dentistry of Shreveport-Bossier is equipped and prepared to assist your smile needs.

Our entire team is specially trained to care for the needs of children and unique challenges of their growing smiles. Whether your child is 1 year old and needing their very first dental exam or your child is 18 and wants a quick cleaning while home from college, we have the skills needed and the training necessary to ensure their growing smiles receive the care they need.

WE OFFER DENTAL CARE IN AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE IT IS OKAY TO BE A KID AND HAVING FUN IS ENCOURAGED!

The team at Pediatric Dentistry of Shreveport Bossier encourages kids to have fun. We love to see them smile! One way we encourage excitement within the community is with regular visits from Twinkle, our very own Tooth Fairy! Twinkle loves to visit local schools and teach kids of all ages the importance of oral health and helping them learn to care for their smiles in a way that is informative and fun.

COME EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE!

Our doctors are excited to welcome you to our dental family, and proud to be able to provide your children with the best dental care around! Dr. Jason Gambill, certified by the American Board of Pediatric

Dentistry is the leader of the group. Dr. Gambill is dedicated to excellence and as such has teamed up with other pediatric dental specialists who share this commitment. Dr. Corey Cloud, Dr. Nancy Ly, and Dr. Thomas Sanchez are also board certified while Drs. Ponna and Johnson are board eligible, having completed the requirements and waiting for their designations as certified.

Is your child ready to visit the dentist? Our doctors, along with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, strongly encourage parents to bring their young children in for their first visit by the child’s first birthday. Early dental visits help parents and children begin good oral hygiene habits BEFORE any major problems arise.

These early visits help ensure your child’s smile is receiving the care it needs to grow and develop while allowing your kids to grow up with a dental home, where they can learn to enjoy their dental visits and look forward to a lifetime of healthy and happy smiles.

PREPARING FOR YOUR FIRST VISIT

You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive for your child! Be sure your child is informed of the visit before they arrive. Tell them that the dentist and will explain all everything they do and answer any questions the child might have. Explain to them that the dentist is a fun, enjoyable place to visit, not a scary one.

You are welcomed and encouraged to accompany your child during the dental visit! We have found that having parents present through the entirety of the child’s visit helps keep the child calm and sooth the parent’s nerves as well. We do understand that some children may have heightened anxiety during their dental visits. For these young patients, we do offer relaxing agents to help minimize unnecessary stress.

INSURANCE OPTIONS

Pediatric Dentistry of Shreveport-Bossier is in network with Aetna, Cigna, Delta, Humana, United Concordia, Tricare and Sunlife. We proudly support our troops by honoring military dental insurance.

2285 BENTON RD, #100 BOSSIER CITY, LA 318.742.9333 940

THANK YOU SHREVEPORTBOSSIER CITY FOR CHOOSING DR. PARRY AT POSITIVE STEPS FERTILITY. WE LOVE BUILDING FAMILIES!

POSITIVE STEPS FERTILITY FERTILITY SPECIALISTS

Dr. John Preston “Pres” Parry is an internationally recognized fertility and surgical expert. He tripled majored at Cornell, did his graduate work at Columbia, and medical school at New York Medical College. This was followed by OB/GYN residency at Tufts and reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellowship at the U. of Louisville. He has published in the New England Journal of Medicine, is President of the Society of Reproductive Surgeons, and is on the editorial board for Fertility and Sterility (the primary U.S. fertility medical journal). Finally, he has been involved in multiple patents and is the inventor of the “Parryscope® technique” for comprehensive single visit fertility testing.

WHAT IS THE TOP QUESTION FOR COUPLES WITH INFERTILITY?

“Will I get pregnant?” is clearly the

number one question. If most women under 35 have a 40% chance of being pregnant in three months with low-cost, low-tech solutions, there is a lot of hope. The key thing is making sure they have the right diagnosis, as I routinely see women who have blocked tubes, polyps, low egg counts, and other factors that have been missed, and they’ve been putting their energy and hope into the wrong things.

HOW CAN A WOMAN UNDERSTAND HER FERTILITY?

The Parryscope® technique is part of a broader approach, fusing ultrasound and office hysteroscopy to understand the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, and uterus in a single visit. It gives women accurate, gentle, fast, and safe care with immediate results that they want.

IS FERTILITY CARE AFFORDABLE?

Insurance often does a bait and switch

with patients where they often have very different expenses than what they think. We’re very upfront about our prices, where currently it is $150 for a consult, $75 for a semen analysis, and $1000 total for fertility testing for most women. Also, for oral medication, an ultrasound, and insemination, it is about $550 a month, and IVF (in vitro fertilization) is closer to $13-14,000 plus medications.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOUR PRACTICE?

Though capable and experienced, couples want to know how much you care before they care how much you know. We fuse excellence, empathy, and efficiency in a way that gets results. Finally, coming to Positive Steps Fertility is a lot like joining a family—we’re with you every step of the way and share in the tears and laughter. We can’t wait to help everyone have the children of their dreams!

9391 ELLERBE RD

SHREVEPORT, LA 71106, SUITE C 318.408.0100

POSITIVESTEPSFERTILITY.COM

WK RADIATION ONCOLOGY SERVICES ONCOLOGY

Willis-Knighton Radiation Oncology maintains a recognized leadership position in the United States, offering patients of this region advanced technologies often before they are available in the largest national centers. The dual-accredited radiation medicine department has been a regional and international education site for students and residents in radiation therapy technology, neurosurgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, dosimetry,

medicine, and medical physics.

Proudly offering image-guided scanning proton therapy, Willis-Knighton Radiation Oncology is the only proton therapy facility in the state of Louisiana. The department has awardwinning expertise in medical physics and dosimetry and offers intensitymodulated radiation therapy (IMRT), brachytherapy and radiopharmaceutical treatments. Numerous clinical trials are available.

Willis-Knighton Radiation Oncology is the department of choice for the majority of patients needing radiotherapy in Shreveport and strives to offer a holistic, empathetic, and caring environment for patients battling malignancy.

(318) 212-4639

2600 KINGS HIGHWAY

SHREVEPORT, LA 71103

WWW.WKHS.COM/CANCER

JAKE WANG, MD • MICHAEL DURCI, MD • JESSICA NASH, PA • LANE R. ROSEN, MD, MEDICAL DIRECTOR SERGIO JARAMILLO, MD • SANFORD R. KATZ, MD • HEIDI WIMBERLY, PA

RED RIVER CONSULTANTS RADIOLOGY

For over 40 years, Red River Consultants has been serving Northwest Louisiana through its affiliation with the Willis Knighton Health System. RRC’s radiologists take their time to focus on providing the highest quality service for each individual patient and their physicians. Through exceptional quality and service, the radiologists of RRC have earned the trust and confidence of a vast portion of the Northwestern Louisiana medical community.

• Brent Boudreaux, MD

• Bruce Hennigan, MD

• Wayne Homza, MD

• Ramin Zamani, MD

• Sijo Joseph, MD

• Heather Bracey, MD

• Aaron Burgin, MD

• Korey Burgin, MD

• Clifton Coffman, MD

• Michael Colter Gates, MD

• Almas Syad, MD

• Donald Majeste, MD

• Mansour Mirfakhraee, MD

• Sam Oats, MD

• James Paul Price, MD

• Justin Skweres, MD

• Hunter Vanderberg, MD

RRC recruits only radiologists with superior skills and expertise in the ever-changing multi-disciplinary field of modern diagnostic and interventional radiology. RRC has multiple fellowship trained radiologists representing the full range of subspecialties including: body imaging, breast imaging, cardiac imaging including cardiac MRI, emergency radiology, neuroradiology, molecular imaging including PET scan interpretation, musculoskeletal imaging, pediatric radiology and vascular and interventional radiology. RRC services the high-risk breast imaging center of Willis Knighton with dedicated mammography certified radiologists as well as clinic based outpatient breast

biopsy using different modalities including MRI guided breast biopsy.

RRC radiologists with MRI expertise have unprecedented skills in cardiac imaging, joint and musculoskeletal imaging, body imaging, and in conjunction with urologists, prostate imaging and cancer risk assessment with fusion technology aiding in the

ultrasound guided biopsies performed by urologists. Every RRC radiologist is board certified by American College of Radiology in their individual subspecialties.

1925 EAST 70TH SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 318-212-3550

WWW.REDRIVERRADS.COM

SHREVEPORT AQUATIC AND LAND THERAPIES (SALT)

PHYSICAL THERAPY

We are excited to have Dr. Harris nominated again for this year’s Top Doctors for physical therapy. Our dynamic staff here at SALT is dedicated to our community in getting you back to optimal function with the best care possible. We are a PT clinic that specializes in all orthopedic conditions, chronic pain, spinal injuries, sports injuries, aquatic therapy, and pelvic floor therapy.

Dr. Julie Ann Harris PT, DPT, OCS, became a physical therapist because she saw a need to improve our society’s health and physical movement under proper, professional guidance and care. After receiving her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Loma Linda University in California, Dr. Harris completed an Orthopedic Residency Program at

Rancho Physical Therapy in California. This afforded her a level of training only a small fraction of physical therapists achieve. She is designated as a BoardCertified Specialist in Orthopedics and has received formal recognition as a physical therapist with advanced clinical knowledge, experience, and skills adopted by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists.

SALT is proud to announce that we are the only clinic to provide the highest level of pain relief with the Focus Shockwave therapy (F-SW) and the LightForce® EXPi Deep Tissue Therapy Laser. Focus Shockwave and Laser therapy is a surgery-free, drug-free option for individuals suffering from both acute and chronic pain. Treatments are fast and safe, and provide relief after sessions. Most patients see results in 3 to 5 treatment sessions, and patients can expect notable pain relief, with the effects lasting longer after each treatment.

318.383.0022

WWW.SHREVEPORTAQUATIC.COM

6969 FERN LOOP SUITE A, SHREVEPORT, LA 71105

DR. KENNETH SANDERS FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY

Sanders is known as the place to go for your face in our area; in fact, he is in the exclusive group of physicians known as the “Top 500” within Allergan - the makers of Botox and Juvéderm facial injectables. He has been an instructor for Allergan for many years and routinely travels to speak and teach other physicians and medical professionals about facial aesthetic treatments.

Dr. Sanders is a Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon who specializes in facial rejuvenation surgery (facelifting), rhinoplasty (nose shaping), hair restoration surgery, and all facial injectables. He has been in practice for 22 years and is an Associate Professor of LSU Health Shreveport for the training of the

Facial Plastic Surgeon Fellows.

He is most excited with the non-invasive and minimally invasive technologies he has available in his practice. Non-surgical fat removal on almost any part of the body with the CoolSculpting Elite device, his CoolSculpting specialist can help remove those trouble spots on women and men who desire a “no downtime” option. His Facetite, Bodytite, and Morpheus 8 devices offer minimally invasive skin tightening and fat sculpting to the jowl, neck, cheeks, and body areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks.

When it comes to surgical intervention for the aging face, Dr. Sanders’ unique techniques will achieve a natural

appearance. “Someone asking for facial rejuvenation surgery wants to look like a younger version of him or herself, not like a different person” states Sanders.

Hair restoration is another love of Dr. Sanders. He is the only physician performing this procedure within a 200mile radius and his results rival those of any hair transplant surgeon anywhere. Dr. Sanders uses the micro-graft technique, producing a completely invisible end result without any “doll hair” or “corn rows” as is seen with older techniques.

8711 LINE AVE, SHREVEPORT, LA 71106

(318) 698-8711

DRKENNETHSANDERS.COM

SHREVEPORT EYE SPECIALISTS RUSSELL VAN NORMAN, M.D. RACHEL MEYER-BOREL, O.D. OPHTHALMOLOGY

Dr. Russ Van Norman first arrived in Shreveport in 1994 to begin his medical education. After graduating from medical school in 1998, he went on to complete his internship and ophthalmology residency at LSUHSC. Wanting to further his training, Dr. Van Norman embarked on a two-year fellowship in Cornea/External Disease and Refractive surgery at the University of Texas Southwestern. This extra education was critical in learning and implementing advanced techniques in corneal transplantation, cataract surgery, refractive procedures (LASIK), and also makes him the most highly trained

corneal specialist in the area.

Upon completion of his fellowship and board certification in 2004, Dr. Van Norman returned to the Shreveport area and began his medical practice. To date, he has performed over 16,500 ophthalmic procedures including cataract removal, laser cataract surgery, premium IOL’s, LASIK, Advanced Surface Ablations, full thickness and partial thickness cornea transplants, and sophisticated anterior segment procedures. Dr. Van Norman also has an extensive glaucoma practice that includes performing laser glaucoma surgery and minimally invasive

glaucoma procedures.

Dr. Rachel Meyer-Borel joined SES in July of 2017. She is board certified in optometry with a degree from Northeastern State University in Oklahoma. She brings seven years of ophthalmic experience to the practice and specializes in diabetic eye exams and hard to fit contacts.

As Shreveport Eye Specialists enters it’s sixth year in business, they continue to be humbled humbled by the continued support from their referring medical professionals, and their wonderful patient base. Everyone at Shreveport Eye Specialists is focused on giving their patients the highest ophthalmic care with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. They truly understand that the happy patient is the most important aspect of their growing practice. Come experience Shreveport Eye Specialists where Your Vision Is Our Focus. 8445 LINE AVENUE, SUITE 200 SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 318.703.5655

SHRINERS CHILDREN’S SHREVEPORT PEDIATRIC ORTHOPEDICS, CLEFT LIP/PALATE

AtShriners Children’s Shreveport, our team of pediatric orthopedic and cleft lip/palate professionals offers outstanding medical care for kids, no matter how minor or complex the condition. We research, we innovate, we do whatever it takes to treat your child’s condition, while helping inspire kids to live a great life.

Founded in 1922, Shriners Children’s Shreveport was the first facility established in the Shriners Children’s system. For over 100 years, our facility has provided specialized care to a global population of kids, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. Our world-class care is not limited to insurance networks, or to what’s been done before. The same doctors who innovate treatments for the most complicated orthopedic and cleft lip/palate issues will help to ensure your child grows and develops properly.

Our pediatric orthopedic specialists are uniquely skilled to provide insight into both routine and complicated orthopedic conditions, from clubfoot and intoeing issues to cerebral palsy and spine conditions. Minimally invasive methodologies such as our EOS low radiation imaging system and our Schroth Barcelona-based treatment for moderate scoliosis help protect our kids and reduce the need for surgeries.

With programs geared toward sports medicine and orthopedic injuries, our physicians and other healthcare professionals help kids prevent and recover from mild to complex orthopedic injuries. When injuries do occur, our fracture team offers the insight necessary to address the physiology of a developing child, helping kids safely and confidently return to the field.

Our cleft lip and palate program involves a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, care managers and therapists in providing education and care to children with cleft and other craniofacial conditions. Children receive comprehensive care from our team of oral and maxillofacial specialists, who work closely with our families to foster and maximize the social, physical, and psychological development of our kids.

Leaders in research. Developers of advanced procedures. Innovators of modern orthopedic and cleft lip/palate care. Expertise and love, all directed into providing outstanding care for kids. Shriners Children’s Shreveport: The Most Amazing Care Anywhere.

TO SCHEDULE YOUR CHILD FOR AN APPOINTMENT AT SHRINERS CHILDREN’S SHREVEPORT, PLEASE CALL 318-226-3314.

CARY MIELKE, MD, CHIEF OF STAFF, PEDIATRIC ORTHOPEDICS • PATRICK POWELL, MD, PEDIATRIC ORTHOPEDICS • JUSTIN KUNES, MD, PEDIATRIC ORTHOPEDICS PATRICK MASSEY, MD, SPORTS MEDICINE • RACHEL BISHOP, DDS, MD, ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL • JENNIFER WOERNER, DMD, MD, ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL

ANTHONY SIN, MD, NEUROSURGERY/SPINE • CHRISTINA NOTARIANNI, MD, NEUROSURGERY • SHEILA ASGHAR, MD, MS, NEUROLOGY KURT GROZINGER, MD, RADIOLOGY • THOMAS PRESSLY, MD, RHEUMATOLOGY • SARWAT UMER, MD, RHEUMATOLOGY

SPECTRUM NEUROSURGERY NEUROSURGERY

John D. Reeves, MD, FAANS, is certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery and has been practicing neurosurgery since 1992. A Shreveport native, Dr. Reeves graduated from Captain Shreve High School and LSU in Baton Rouge with a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry. He earned his medical degree and completed his residency at LSU School of Medicine New Orleans. Following his medical education, he moved to Switzerland to work with the premier cerebrovascular and brain tumor neurosurgeon in the world. Dr. Reeves is a careful, prudent physician and surgeon who applies his neurosurgical skills when necessary, declines surgery when appropriate, and willingly refers patients to other colleagues when the case demands another type of expertise.

SERVICES AND TREATMENTS

As the name suggests, Spectrum Neurosurgery treats a broad spectrum of neurological related health conditions of the brain, spine and peripheral nerve. While our practice focuses on surgical management of neurologic disorders, we recognize that surgery is not the right answer for every patient and pride ourselves in taking a more conservative approach to surgery.

• Brain Tumor

• Subdural hematoma

• Epidural hematoma

• Stereotactic biopsy

• Brain abscess

• Chiari 2 malformation

• Herniated Disc Removal –cervical, thoracic, lumbar

• Lumbar fusion – posterior, anterior, lateral

• Thoracic fusion

• Cervical fusion – anterior, posterior

• Cervical disc replacement

• Kyphoplasty / vertebroplasty

• Vertebral biopsy

• Spine tumor

• Spine abscess

• Cervical stenosis and lumbar stenosis

• Cervical myelopathy

• Cervical radiculopathy

• Lumbar radiculopathy

• Sciatica

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Ulnar nerve entrapment

• Radial / posterior interosseous nerve

• Neurogenic thoracic outlet

• Cervical rib resection

• Brachial plexus exploration

• Peroneal nerve entrapment

• Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Dr. Reeves provides neurosurgery consultations at the WillisKnighton’s North and Pierremont locations.

NORTH OFFICE

2751 ALBERT L BICKNELL DR SUITE 1-A (318) 212-8115

PIERREMONT OFFICE

8001 YOUREE DRIVE, SUITE 500 (318) 212-8115

WWW.SPECTRUMNEUROSURGERY.COM

WK SPINE & PAIN SPECIALISTS PAIN MANAGEMENT

At Spine & Pain Specialists, our physicians focus on using comprehensive, state-of-the-art treatments for back pain, neck pain as well as other chronic pain syndromes. Our goal is to treat low back and neck pain as early as possible to prevent it from becoming a chronic and lifelong problem. Dr. John Noles, Dr. David Hirsch, and Dr. Russell Stuermann are double board-certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Management. Dr. Germany brings a multi-specialty approach to the practice offering Botox injections as well as acupuncture. We use the latest technology available to safely and effectively treat our patients.

All treatments offered at Spine & Pain Specialists are minimally invasive and

most are nonsurgical. Our approach is to first identify the source of a patient’s pain so that we can create a treatment plan best suited for each patient. Each treatment plan is designed to improve quality of life as well as overall function. We offer a comprehensive array of treatments including non narcotic medications and injection therapy. One of our primary goals for our patients is to decrease or eliminate opioid (narcotic) medications. Our treatment plan only uses narcotic pain medication when all other options have been exhausted. Our team of doctors, physician extenders, nurses, medical assistants, and administrative staff at Spine & Pain Specialists recognizes that coping with pain is very difficult and burdensome for the patient as well as

their family members and friends. We treat each patient with the same care and compassion we would want for our family members.

Visit John Noles M.D., David Hirsch

M.D., MBA, Russell Stuermann, M.D., Nancy Germany M.D., Bridget Whittington PA-C, Samerrial Malone

FNP, Carmen Schaumburg PA-C, Emily LeBlanc PA-C Tyra Brown PA-C, and Hillary Davis, PA-C at one of their offices in Shreveport and Bossier City.

BOSSIER OFFICE

2449 HOSPITAL DRIVE, SUITE 300 BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111

(318) 212-7960

PIERREMONT OFFICE

1811 E BERT KOUNS IND LOOP SUITE 300, SHREVEPORT, LA 71105

(318) 212-3636

WKSPINEANDPAIN.COM

JOHN NOLES, MD, DAVID HIRSCH, MD, MBA, RUSSELL STUERMANN, MD, NANCY GERMANY, MD, BRIDGET WHITTINGTON, PA, SAMERRIAL MALONE, NP, CARMEN SCHAUMBURG, PA, EMILY LEBLANC, PA, TYRA BROWN, PA, HILLARY DAVIS, PA

STERLING DENTAL DENTISTRY

Dr. Geneux is a born-and-raised Shreveport native who graduated from Captain Shreve High School in 1998. For college, he attended Louisiana State University (LSU) in Baton Rouge, where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Biology. In the year 2007, he continued his education and went on to graduate from the LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans.

As a child, Dr. Geneux spent a lot of time in hospitals and was often in and out of cancer wards. From a very young age, he knew that the medical field would be his future. He craved connecting with people and improving the lives of others, and with dentistry, he was able to accomplish that. Since then, he has committed to excellence and continues strengthening his skills as a dentist, husband, and father.

When not in the office, Dr. Geneux loves spending time with his wife and four daughters. He also enjoys playing tennis, fishing, and cheering on his alma mater, the LSU Tigers.

At Sterling Dental Center, our mission is to provide a high level of convenience, comfort and customer service. We proudly offer dental care to patients of all ages, including children, adults, and seniors. From general dentistry to restorative dentistry and more, you can count on us to get the personalized dental care you need and deserve. Dr. Geneux provides Cosmetic, General, Restorative, and Sedation Dentistry. Some of the cosmetic dentistry services are veneers, teeth whitening, and Invisalign. Patients without dental insurance can join our membership club and take care of preventative care with a monthly subscription, all while saving money. There are three membership packages to choose from.

Learn how we can provide exceptional dental care for you and your family. Schedule your consultation by calling today.

2533 BERT KOUNS IND. LOOP #107

SHREVEPORT, LA 71118

(318) 688-1040

STERLINGDENTALSHREVEPORT.COM

BRYAN VEKOVIUS, M.D. OCULOPLASTIC SURGERY / NEURO-OPHTHALMOLOGY

One of the great rewards in practicing medicine for Dr. Bryan Vekovius is helping patients feel better and look better. It’s an added bonus for patients with vision problems who receive treatment. In addition, they love what they see when they look in the mirror.

An experienced oculoplastic surgeon who has performed over 20,000 eyelid procedures, Dr. Vekovius is an expert in aesthetics and the treatment of diseases and syndromes involving the eye and eyelid, tearing system and the optic nerve. He is an expert in blepharoplasty, a surgery which reduces bagginess and droopiness in the eyelids, which can be to improve appearance but also vision. Excess skin on the upper eyelid, for example, can cause peripheral vision loss. He performs dozens of these surgeries each week, helping all types of patients, even those who have lost muscle function in the eyelid.

“I strive each day to be a physician who is committed to quality, compassionate care, superior patient satisfaction,

and excellence in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery,” he said.

Dr. Vekovius is one of the few cosmetic surgeons in the region who is a member of the American Board of Ophthalmology. He is recognized as a leader in Oculoplastic Surgery and Neuro-Ophthalmology and has performed thousands of procedures for problems like tearing disorders, including dry eye syndrome. Dr. Vekovius is also an expert in skin cancer excision and reconstruction, as he continues to perform several surgeries each month removing cancers from the eyelids and face.

Dr. Vekovius completed his ophthalmology training at LSU in Shreveport in 2001. He then underwent fellowship training in oculoplastic surgery, specializing in techniques of plastic surgery as it relates to the eyes and their surrounding structures such as eyelid repairs, browlifts, tear duct surgery, and treatment of thyroid eye disease. Trained by Dr. Thomas C. Spoor, he also learned the art of laser skin resurfacing and treatment of facial

veins and blemishes as well as use of Botox and Dysport and fillers such as Restylane, Radiesse, and Belotero. He then completed further training in Neuro-Ophthalmology, the subspecialty of Ophthalmology which encompasses the optic nerve, the nerves which control eye movement, and the brain.

Dr. Vekovius has become one of northwest Louisiana’s premier physicians, drawing patients from the Shreveport-Bossier City area, as well as from other areas of Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi and Oklahoma. The office is conveniently located in Southeast Shreveport in the Ashley Ridge Business Park. His contributions in the fields of Oculoplastic surgery and Neuro-Ophthalmology have changed the lives of many patients by enhancing their features, rejuvenating their appearance, boosting their self-esteem and improving their vision. Born in Baton Rouge, Dr. Vekovius was raised in Shreveport. He and his wife, Stephanie, have three children: William, Samuel and Sophia. 450

WWW.DRVEKO.COM

ACTIVE RECOVERY COUNSELING

Active Recovery’s motto is “Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life,” because, in order to create real lasting change in your life, you must first recognize how your thoughts set the intentions for positive or negative behaviors. Since we are not a 12-Step program, we offer the right amount of positive reinforcement, motivation, and support to help you develop

ARTHRITIS & RHEUMATOLOGY CLINIC RHEUMATOLOGY

“Blending the most innovative approaches in rheumatology and arthritis treatments with personalized patient care.”

Board Certified Rheumatologist

Robert E. Goodman, M.D. of the Arthritis & Rheumatology Clinic in Shreveport, has been caring for patients in our area for 38 years. Dr. Goodman combines his specialized training and experience with personalized care to provide patients with innovative approaches, leadingedge technology, and the latest treatment options for their condition. Board-certified in Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Dr. Goodman received his undergraduate degree from LSU in Baton Rouge, and his medical degree from LSU School of Medicine in Shreveport. He completed his internship and

everything you were destined to achieve. Focusing on gratitude, possibilities, and strengths instead of negative past traits and blunders can help to rewire your brain to its full potential without opening old wounds and resentments.

residency in Internal Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, and his Rheumatology Fellowship at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, Tennessee.

A member of the active medical staff of Willis-Knighton Health Systems, Dr. Goodman is a member of the American College of Rheumatology, American Society of Internal Medicine, American College of Physicians, Northwest Louisiana Medical Society, Louisiana State Medical Society, and the American Medical Association.

Dr. Goodman also volunteers at Martin Luther King Health Center & Pharmacy in Shreveport (mlkhealth. org) where he has been a volunteer physician and supporter for over 33 years. He is a recipient of the MLK Health Center Humanitarian Award given in recognition of his dedicated service.

BASINGER FAMILY DENTISTRY DENTISTRY

Dr. Brian Basinger has been providing superior cosmetic family dental care to our community since 1996. He strives to provide state of the art dentistry in a friendly and relaxed environment focusing on building relationships with his patients. Using the latest technology, Dr. Basinger believes restoring beautiful smiles is now easier and more comfortable than ever.

Want to change your smile? Dr. Basinger and his team can certainly help with that! A smile makeover may include anything from bonding and whitening to crowns and veneers. Need to replace a missing tooth or teeth? Dental implant restorations

may be for you.

As the official team dentist for the Shreveport Mudbugs hockey team, Dr. Basinger has seen all these situations and then some. He strives to be active in the community through church, volunteer organizations like the Hub and Purchased, Louisiana Mission of Mercy, and Donated Dental. In 2019 he received the Integrity Award from the Better Business Bureau. Since 2016 he has been elected by his peers as the delegate from NWLA to the national ADA meeting and has been the editor of the LDA Journal since 2020.

A native of Shreveport, Dr. Basinger is a LA Tech alum and received his DDS degree from LSUSD. He and his wife of 31 years, Heather, have three sons. Dr. Basinger and his friendly, caring staff are welcoming new patients and are devoted to ensuring your dental experience is comfortable and personalized.

818 PIERREMONT ROAD SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 318.869.3020

WWW.BASINGERDENTAL.COM

Dr. Ryan Bates, D.C

Dr. William Duncan, D.C

DR. VIK CHATRATH

ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALIST COMPASSION, CARE AND ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY.

From unexpected injuries to the inevitable aging of your joints, you can rely on Dr. Vik Chatrath for your orthopedic healthcare.

Dr. Chatrath’s conservative management of orthopedic pain and a focus on joint preservation means he only recommends surgery when it’s your best option.

Count on Dr. Chatrath for:

• Minimally invasive joint replacement

• Muscle-sparing surgery for quicker healing and less pain

• Robotics assisted Joint Replacements, 3-D printing technology

• Advanced techniques including anterior hip replacement

• Ongoing communication to help you make informed decisions about your care

• Top ratings on Google and amazing reviews

Don’t wait weeks for an appointment elsewhere when Dr. Chatrath will see you quickly. No wonder he’s the orthopedic preference of patients from Bossier, Shreveport and throughout the Ark-La-Tex.

VIK CHATRATH, MD BOSSIER ORTHOPEDICS

2449 HOSPITAL DRIVE BOSSIER CITY 318-212-7841

KNEE, HIP, SHOULDER REPLACEMENT – SPORTS INJURIES – GENERAL ORTHOPEDIC CARE

DESIGNED TO MOVE CHIROPRACTOR

John Barrington believes that every doctor has a duty to commit to lifelong learning to better serve their patients and has completed a number of additional certifications. He is a FAKTR certified provider, concussion health certified provider, Interactive Metronome certified provider, certified in dry needling, and has completed the 100-hour Chiropractic Clinical Neurology Certification from Parker University. He is also Webstercertified, helping mamas through their pregnancies and beyond.

Dr. Barrington is licensed in Puerto Rico, Texas, and Louisiana and has passed Part

I, II, III, IV, and physiotherapy national board exams. In his spare time, he also works for Genex Services as an initial clinical reviewer. This keeps him up to date on the newest research and guidelines for medical care from chiropractic to orthopedics.

Dr. Barrington has a lovely wife of 15 years, Hollie Barrington, and together they have 4 boys. Hollie and John are certified foster parents and feel called to help children in need. While not at work Dr. Barrington enjoys woodworking, playing soccer, and helping with the youth group at Brookwood Baptist Church. He is strong in his faith and strives to live a life that glorifies Jesus above all else.

4330 PANTHER DR, BOSSIER CITY, LA 71112 (318) 215-5435

DESIGNEDTOMOVECHIRO. COM/

JASON DUPREE, D.D.S. GENERAL DENTISTRY / DENTAL SLEEP MEDICINE

ALouisiana native, Dr. Jason Dupree is committed to providing the best dental care for his patients. His goal is to meet and exceed expectations with professional skill, integrity, respect, and communication with life-changing results, focusing on the patient’s overall health as well as dental health.

Dr. Dupree graduated from the LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans, where he also completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency. He has numerous professional awards including the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and International College of Oral Implantologist. He is heavily involved in volunteer and church functions.

Dr. Dupree opened the practice in 1996. He and his staff at Dupree Family Dental strive to make dentistry as relaxing and fun as possible. They stay current on the latest advantages in research and treatment, with emphasis on cosmetics, implants, and sleep apnea appliances, so you get the most advanced care possible.

Dr. Dupree has the latest state of the art equipment to help treat patients with Sleep Apnea who can not tolerate their CPAP. Approximately 4 out of 10 CPAP patients do not use their CPAP Machine, therefore, they aren’t treating their Obstructive Sleep Apnea. We Can Help. The appliance is covered by most medical insurance companies, including Medicare. We look forward to helping you get a good nights sleep. Call today for a free consultation. Dr. Jason Dupree and his staff enjoy saying they are SAVING LIVES AND MARRIAGES!

1945 E. 70TH ST., SHREVEPORT, LA 318.797.1187

DUPREEFAMILYDENTAL.COM

THE EDGE PHYSICAL THERAPY PHYSICAL

THERAPY

SHREVEPORT’S PREMIER SPORTS AND PHYSICAL THERAPY CLINIC

The Edge offers an array of physical therapy, rehabilitative, and preventive services ensuring optimal care. They provide patients with the most effective, comprehensive, and evidencebased treatment available.

Dr. Anna Means Moore, PT, DPT, OCS | Co-Owner and Founder Anna attended and played basketball for Northwestern State University in Natchitoches and graduated from LSUHSC Shreveport with a Masters Degree in Physical Therapy in 2005 and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2008. She is the only credentialed ASTYM provider in the area, is certified through Kineticore to perform Trigger Point Dry Needling (TDN), and is also certified through Owens Recovery Science to perform Blood Flow Restriction (BFR).

Dr. Trent Wierick, PT, DPT, TPI | Co-Owner

Trent was raised in Shreveport and played football at Louisiana Tech University. Trent also graduated from LSUHSC Shreveport with a Masters Degree in Physical Therapy in 2005 and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2008. Trent is certified by the Titleist Performance Institute for golf fitness evaluations, trained by Kinetacore to perform Trigger Point Dry Needling, and by Owens Recovery Science for Blood Flow Restriction (BFR).

Dr. Kelli Snyder, PT, DPT

Kelli grew up in Shreveport, attended Loyola College Prep, and graduated from LSUHSC-Shreveport in 2011 with a Doctorate in

Physical Therapy. Kelli is trained in Functional Dry Needling as well as BFR by Owens Recovery Science and enjoys being a part of her patient’s journey to return to their prior sport, work, and daily activities.

Dr. Justin Boyd, PT, DPT, OCS

Justin obtained his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from LSUHSCShreveport in 2018 and completed an orthopedic residency at LSUHSC-Shreveport in 2019. Justin is also certified in BFR through Owens Recovery Science and is Level one and two Trigger Point Dry Needling certified through MS Dry Needling. 727 AMERICAN WAY, SUITE 2 SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 318-841-0696 | EDGEPHYSICALTHERAPY.COM

WK ENDOCRINE & THYROID ENDOCRINE & THYROID SPECIALISTS

AtEndocrine & Thyroid Specialists, you can depend on us for quality treatment and management of general endocrine disorders. With two convenient locations, we specialize in Thyroid Disease and Thyroid cancer. We also manage pituitary, adrenal, osteoporosis, cholesterol, gonadal, and diabetic disorders. In addition, we offer insulin pump

management, continuous glucose monitoring, state-of-the-art molecular diagnostics for thyroid biopsy samples, referral to expert thyroid and parathyroid surgeons when needed, and long-term follow-up for thyroid cancer. We are constantly utilizing new medications and technologies to manage endocrine disorders and our devotion to good health is the basis and primary focus of our practice. We value the trust and confidence of our patients, working in partnership for better health

VISIT DR. KIMBALL-RAVARI, DR. ALBRITTON, SAMMI SMITH, VICKEY BURNETT, COLLETTE BROWN, AND HEATHER ROAN AT OUR WK BOSSIER LOCATION.

2449 HOSPITAL DR #400 BOSSIER CITY, LA (318) 212-7902

VISIT DR. DAKOTA BOSTON AND DR. JOSHUA MAIER AT OUR SHREVEPORT WK PIERREMONT LOCATION. WE ARE EXCITED TO WELCOME DR. MAIER AS OUR NEWEST PROVIDER!

1811 E BERT KOUNS

INDUSTRIAL LOOP #480 SHREVEPORT, LA (318) 212-2810

WKENDOCRINESPECIALISTS.COM

MAYFIELD CHIROPRACTIC

CHIROPRACTIC & MEDICAL DOCTORS • MASSAGE THERAPY • TRANSPORTATION • REHAB

We have over 28 years of experience treating patients in north Louisiana for:

• Auto accidents

• Neck and shoulder pain

• Headaches

• Low back pain

• Pain in elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankles

We are excited to announce that Dr. Kyle Mayfield will be opening another clinic called AIM Chiropractic this fall with an emphasis on Sports Chiropractic Services.

GYN CONCEPTS

OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY

YOUare the focus at GYN Concepts. Our decor and appointment design create a calming and positive atmosphere, allowing excellent communication and adequate time to review your health. At GYN Concepts, we take a whole-body approach to gynecological care throughout all stages of a woman’s life. No two women are the same, so custom treatment plans are our hallmark. We identify and address the root causes of your ailments. We respect your time

Provider for most insurance companies including VA and some Medicaid.

SHREVEPORT LOCATION

2405 LINE AVENUE 318-828-1517

NEW SHREVEPORT LOCATION

1939 SOUTHERN LOOP, SUITE O 318-536-3155

MONROE LOCATION 1400 ROYAL AVENUE 318-323-7246

MAYFIELDCHIROPRACTIC. COM

and are aware that you have choices when it comes to women’s health. Limiting the number of patients we see each day ensures you will be seen in a timely fashion and will have ample time with Dr. Talukder. When you visit GYN Concepts you can expect allencompassing, personalized, and empathetic care from adolescence to menopause and beyond. Dr. Talukder strives to make you as comfortable visiting her as you do your favorite boutique or spa.

8001 YOUREE DRIVE, SUITE 320 SHREVEPORT, LA 71115 (318) 212-2835

MICIOTTO FAMILY DENTISTRY

CYNTHIA M. MICIOTTO, DDS, CAROLINE R. COBB, DDS

Dr. Cynthia Miciotto practiced dentistry for over 40 years in Bossier City. She welcomed her daughter, Dr. Caroline Cobb, into her practice in 2017. Dr. Cindy and Dr. Caroline are thrilled to be working together and serving their community. Dr. Caroline was born and raised in the Shreveport-Bossier community. She attended Louisiana Tech University, where she graduated in 2009 with her Bachelors in Science with concentrations in Biology and Chemistry. She went on to attend LSU School of Dentistry, graduating in 2014. She completed one year of advanced education residency at the University of Alabama-Birmingham VA Hospital. After residency, she practiced in the New Orleans area for two years

before returning home to join her mother in private practice. Dr. Caroline is a member of the American Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, and Northwest Louisiana Dental Association. Outside of the office, Dr. Caroline enjoys traveling, attending LSU and Saints games, and spending time with her two rescue dogs, Tchoup and Roux. She is also honored to be serving as the President of Champions for Individuals with Disabilities at Holy Angels.

Dr. Cindy’s passion and dedication for her work has been unparalleled since beginning practice in 1982. Dr. Caroline is honored to continue this same level of care to the residents of Shreveport-Bossier. Dr. Cindy and Dr. Caroline attribute their personal and professional success to their dedicated employees, loyal patients, and the love and support of their family and friends.

2158 AIRLINE DRIVE, BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 • 318-747-1690

RABALAIS DENTAL CENTRE DENTISTRY

Shelly Rabalais was always attracted to the healthcare industry, and a career in dentistry has proven to be the perfect fit. She is a South Louisiana native who has been in the Shreveport-Bossier City area for over 16 years now and is happy to call it home.

Services offered at Rabalais Dental Centre include cleanings, fillings, crowns, dentures, root canals, implant restorations, and tooth whitening. They offer an in-house dental membership plan, which is a fantastic alternative for those who don’t have dental insurance.

“I’m motivated by the people around me, and being able to treat patients in a comfortable atmosphere and help them overcome their fear of dentistry is fulfilling to me,” Rabalais said. “Patients are in a welcoming environment from the moment they walk through the door.”

Rabalais believes her faith is one of the things that has made her successful. “God continues to bless me every day with fantastic patients and a fantastic team,” she said.

2158 AIRLINE DRIVE, BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 318-747-1690

RABALAISDENTALCENTRE.COM

DR. VYAS RAO, MD, FACS

DEPARTMENT OF SURGERY, PROFESSOR OF CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY

Dr. Vyas Ramuhalli Rao is a renowned cardiovascular thoracic surgeon, practicing in Shreveport since 2002. He is based at Ochsner Louisiana State Health Sciences, but practices as a consultant at all hospitals in Shreveport-Bossier City. His main area of practice is cardiac surgery, with treatment of coronary and valvular heart diseases.

Originally from India, Dr. Rao obtained his initial medical degree in 1982 from Bangalore Medical College and then the Master of Surgery in 1986 and the Master of Chirurgie in cardiothoracic surgery in 1988. Throughout his medical school years, he remained in the top two percent of his class, obtaining gold medals in physiology by scoring the highest marks for the university in his

first year of medical school. He also obtained the gold medal for community medicine in his final year of the medical school.

Dr. Rao was trained on coronary endarterectomies under world-famous cardiac surgeon, Dr. W. Dudley Johnson, from 1988 to 1990 in Milwaukee, Wis. He is American Board Certified in cardiothoracic surgery. He has operated on many difficult and challenging heart and lung surgery patients with good results, and he is also well trained in pediatric heart surgery and heart transplants. Dr. Rao has also offered endovascular treatment for vascular ailments and has helped many individuals with vascular abdominal and thoracic aneurysms. In addition, he now also offers robotic assisted lung surgery. He has memberships in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, American College of Surgeons-Fellow (FACS), American Medical Association, Shreveport Medical Society and the Indian Medical Association (Life Member).

OCHSNER LSU HEALTH SCIENCES

1501 KINGS HWY, SHREVEPORT, LA 318.675.6123

RESTORATION DENTAL GROUP

GENERAL, IMPLANT, AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

AtRestoration Dental Group, your smile and overall good oral health is important to us. We pride ourselves in providing a comfortable, family-oriented atmosphere that is both highly skilled and efficient. We provide the latest technology for general and cosmetic dentistry, such as digital x-rays, CEREC same-day crowns, and CBCT scans. Dr. Ray Jarvis and Dr. Meredith Patton are delighted to offer patients several new and exciting procedures, including dental implants, Botox and lip filler, and SureSmile orthodontic clear aligners.

Dr. Jarvis, Dr. Patton, and the staff at Restoration Dental Group strive to provide quality dental care with your comfort in mind. Our team’s commitment to compassion, continuing education, and individualized detail means you and your family will be provided with truly exceptional dental care.

We look forward to helping you enjoy the benefits of a smile that supports your best quality of life and boosts your confidence.

(318) 797-1181 • 7607 FERN AVE #800, SHREVEPORT, LA

RESTORATIONDENTAL.CO

DR. MEREDITH PATTON • DR. RAY JARVIS

SOUTH SHREVEPORT DENTAL DENTISTRY

South Shreveport Dental was rebranded in 2013 by Dr. Andrew Simpson, but it is not a new practice. Dr. Andrew Simpson is the 4th generation owner of the very first dental practice founded in Shreveport, Louisiana. Dr. Simpson and his team have revamped the practice, investing heavily in digital technology and equipment, but they are also known for their personal touch on every aspect of dentistry.

At South Shreveport Dental, our mission has always been to explore the latest, but proven, techniques to provide the most modern dental care available today. In the past, we discussed how 3D imaging and digital dentistry allowed us to improve disease diagnosis and treatment, lower total treatment costs and improve treatment efficiency by cutting down on lab manufacturing times. CEREC technology provides us with same day crowns, veneers and dental implant surgical guides along with other digital solutions.

Dr. Simpson attended Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in New Orleans and graduated in 2009. He practiced for four years in Baton Rouge before moving to Shreveport. “We know patients have many options in selecting a dental office. We have made every effort to make all patients feel like they’ve found a home,” Dr. Simpson said.

9220 ELLERBE ROAD, SUITE 100 SHREVEPORT, LA 318.868.0830

SOUTHSHREVEPORTDENTAL.COM

DR. ERIC BICKNELL ELECTRODIAGNOSTIC MEDICINE

Bicknell EMG was founded by Dr. J. Eric Bicknell in 1988, as one of the first state-of-the-art nerve and muscle testing medical facilities in the area. This specialized service requires Electromyography training, PM&R/Neurology certification, and American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine board certification.

Dr. Bicknell has over 35 years of experience and focuses his practice today on electrodiagnostic medicine outpatient services. Referring physicians acknowledge him as the industry standard for comprehensive evaluations of the peripheral nervous system, in what is the first accredited EMG lab with exemplary status in North Louisiana by (AANEM) American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine.

7823 YOUREE DRIVE SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 318.798.6833

WWW.BICKNELLEMG.COM

“MAKING YOU SMILE IS WHAT WE DO!”

REHABILITATION/SPORTS MEDICINE

Nick Huckaby owns and operates Platinum Physical Therapy, LLC. He provides contract physical therapy services in acute care, outpatient, skilled nursing, and home health settings. Nick has over 18 years of experience in clinical and administrative roles in physical therapy and recently served as the he director of outpatient rehabilitation and sports medicine for a local health system. He is a Shreveport native and graduate of C.E. Byrd High School. Nick obtained his Bachelor of Science from Southern University in Baton Rouge and went on to obtain a Master’s degree and Doctorate of Physical Therapy from LSU Health Sciences Center-Shreveport. Nick is passionate about working in the community, promoting health and wellness, and mentoring young individuals to become future professionals and leaders.

NHUCKABY@HOTMAIL.COM

LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

Congratulates

ALL OF OUR

2023 SB TOP DOCS

We applaud your commitment to medical education as the DOCS TEACHING A FUTURE GENERATION OF DOCS and to clinical research which will deliver the cures for tomorrow.

DR. MICHAEL E. WOOLBERT D.D.S.

DR. POPE ODEN III D.D.S.

GENERAL DENTISTRY

Our dental practice is committed to providing superior oral health services to our patients. We foster patient relationships based on mutual trust, excellent customer service, and the best-personalized patient care available. Our team is devoted to restoring, enhancing, and maintaining your teeth using conservative, state-of-the-art dental procedures.

We look forward to continuing our patients’ care and welcoming their family and friends to the practice.

Dr. Michael E. Woolbert

Dr. Pope Oden III

We never stop innovating health and wellness solutions that help you and your family live your best lives. When you need the right care, right now, visit CHRISTUS Urgent Care.

Get quality CHRISTUS care every time, from anywhere.

Here for You. Here to Stay.

Continuing Our Commitment to You

Ochsner LSU Health began with a vision to improve the health and well-being of communities in North Louisiana and beyond. Building on the strengths of Ochsner Health and LSU Health Shreveport, we have increased availability of healthcare services, expanded patient-centered technology, improved quality and facilities, and enhanced medical education and research. Our commitment to improving the lives of the communities we serve remains as strong today as it was five years ago.

DIY HALLOWEEN CARAMEL APPLE

BAR: A Fun and Delicious Treat for the Whole Family!

Are you looking for a fun and easy Halloween treat that both kids and adults will love? Look no further than a DIY Halloween caramel apple bar! This dessert is perfect for small groups and can be customized to fit every taste bud. Here are some tips to get you started!

1. Get creative with your toppings: Caramel apples pair well with any sweet or salty toppings. You can use Halloween-themed sprinkles, pumpkin candy corn, or any spooky treat you can find.

2. Gather your supplies: You'll need apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), old-fashioned caramel dip, lollipop sticks, and a variety of small bowls for the toppings and dipping sauce.

3. Prepare the apples: Core and quarter the apples, then insert a lollipop stick into each apple wedge. Alternatively, you can let people just spear their own apples. Be sure to cut your apples right before party time so they are fresh.

4. Create your toppings bar: Fill a variety of bowls with candies, treWats, and old-fashioned caramel dip. Arrange everything on a couple of platters for easy stacking.

5. Now your caramel apple bar is ready! Dip your apples in the caramel sauce and then in the toppings of your choice. These customizable caramel apple wedges are sure to be a hit at your Halloween party this year!

PRESIDENT’S CONVOCATION OPENS CENTENARY COLLEGE’S - 199TH ACADEMIC YEAR

On August 17, Holoman presided over an all-campus meeting, welcoming new employees and setting priorities for the new academic year. Holoman also presented the 2023 David Womack Leadership Award to Shanta Bates Chatman, general manager of dining services.

Chatman joined Centenary in November 2011 as a parttime unit admin/cashier for Sodexo Dining, the College’s food service provider. Her administrative talents and dedication quickly made themselves evident and she became an integral part of Centenary’s dining services, playing a crucial stabilizing role during many changes in Sodexo’s staffing and operations. She was promoted to interim general manager and then general manager in 2020.

LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT MEDICAL STUDENTS

RAISE MONEY FOR PEDIATRIC PATIENTS WITH 3RD ANNUAL PARS FOR PEDS GOLF TOURNAMENT

On Saturday, August 26, LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine students hosted the third annual Pars for Peds Golf Tournament fundraiser. Community supporters along with LSU Health Shreveport faculty, residents, and students, came together to golf for good. Proceeds from this year’s event were combined with the 2022 tournament’s proceeds to renovate the atrium at Ochsner LSU Health – St. Mary Medical Center (OLHS-SMMC) into a teen-friendly space for patients, complete with grass turf, lounge space, and a movie screen.

“We are grateful and excited to host this year’s tournament and give back to our community,” states 2023 Pars for Peds Co-Director, Driskell Greene. “As medical students, we believe in compassion and hope that our efforts can help pediatric patients here in Shreveport. It’s truly remarkable to see a community come together and support the cause. We look forward to having a great day of golf in support of these patients!”

Centenary College students returned to class on Monday, August 21, including nearly 300 new students representing the Class of 2027 as well as transfer and graduate students. On Tuesday, August 22, Centenary President Dr. Christopher L. Holoman welcomed faculty, staff, and students to the annual President’s Convocation in Brown Chapel, the traditional opening of the College’s academic year.

During his convocation address, Holoman shared words of advice for the entire College community, especially for firstyear students beginning their higher education journey. Using an adaptation of the prestigious “EGOT” (Emmy/Grammy/ Oscar/Tony) designation, Holoman urged students, faculty, and staff to strive for and celebrate excellence, approach others with grace and openness, and face obstacles and setbacks with tenacity.

Pars for Peds was founded in 2021 after two medical students saw a need to make hospital stays more enjoyable for pediatric patients receiving care at OLHS-SMMC. In the inaugural year, the tournament raised $20,000 to create a recreation room for patients fitted with arcade games and more. Last year, the event raised over $25,000 which will be combined with this year’s totals to renovate the atrium.

NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR TECH TALENT PIPELINE PROVES CIC, NWLA PARTNERSHIP VALUE

Northwestern Louisiana has garnered national attention for its technology workforce, with the Cyber Innovation Center poised as a leader in helping develop this pipeline.

Business Facilities ranked Louisiana as the top state for the Tech Talent Pipeline category in its 19th Annual Rankings Report.

The employed cybersecurity workforce of the ShreveportBossier City Metropolitan Statistical Area is almost 20% above the national average, according to Cyber Seek.

CYBER.ORG, a division of CIC, has spent the last decade building a K-12 cyber education program across the U.S. with thousands of teachers and students accessing the resources to fuel the cyber workforce pipeline for the future.

According to CompTIA, the nonprofit association for the information technology industry and workforce, more than 48,000 people work in technology jobs in Louisiana. Those employees’ estimated median wage is $68,661, which is 86% higher than the median wage for all occupations in the state. The tech sector has an economic impact of $5.7 billion and the state is home to approximately 5,300 tech businesses.

The General Dynamics Integrated Technology Center, a tenant of the NCRP, provides next-generation technology services to the federal government with 1,400 high-wage, highly skilled tech employees.

THE BOSSIER ARTS COUNCIL PRESENTS “THE THEATRE OF THE MIND”

The Bossier Arts Council announces the Open Artist Call for “The Theatre of the Mind!”

Artists are encouraged to “draw back the curtains” and give us a peak into their thoughts as a “Creative”! How do you “make”? How do you “wonder”? How does the Creative Process play out inside your head? Does it Scare You? Does it Empower or Entertain You?

Whatever it looks like, let it be shown Scene-by-Scene for the World to See!

Artworks may be any Medium and Size, but the Price Cap for this show is $100.00, so please manage your materials cost accordingly.

Artists will have until Wednesday, September 27th at 4:00 PM to drop off their work to the Bossier Arts Council.

SHREVE MEMORIAL LIBRARY PRESENTS CENTENNIAL BEANSTACK CHALLENGE

Shreve Memorial Library continues celebrating 100 years of serving Caddo Parish by giving patrons a chance to win some great prizes in the Centennial Beanstack Challenge. This challenge encourages readers of all ages to read 20 minutes a day for 100 days. The challenge begins Friday, September 1 ,and continues through Sunday, December 31. No fee is required for entry, and the challenge is open to the public.

Patrons are allowed to read any books they choose during the Centennial Beanstack Challenge. Unlike other reading challenges, patrons must log the number of days that they read rather than the number of books read on Beanstack. Reading

activity should be completed on the days that the patron reads and cannot be logged ahead of time.

Those who successfully complete the challenge of reading for 100 days will be entered into a drawing for a Barnes and Noble gift card. The prize drawing will be held on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 with the winners being announced on social media. A winner will be drawn for each of the following age groups: children, teens, and adults.

For more information please visit www.shreve-lib.org.

GREATER SHREVEPORT CHAMBER RECOGNIZES QUERBES & NELSON  WITH THE J. PAT BEAIRD INDUSTRY OF THE YEAR AWARD

“The Querbes & Nelson families have been a fixture in Shreveport for generations, and together they have been stalwart members of the business community for over a

The Greater Shreveport Chamber hosted this year’s J. Pat Beaird Industry of the Year Awards Luncheon, with the support of the J. Pat Beaird Memorial Fund and our Presenting Sponsor, Regions Bank.

century,” said Dr. Timothy Magner, President of the Greater Shreveport Chamber. “We are delighted to recognize them for their commitment, engagement, and impact on ShreveportBossier.”

For more than 100 years, Querbes & Nelson has made its home in an historic building in downtown Shreveport. As much as the Ark-La-Tex area has changed, and throughout the challenges facing business and families through the pandemic and more, one thing has remained constant, Querbes & Nelson and their commitment to our community. Since 1914, they have served the needs of a varied clientele, providing tailor-made insurance and risk management solutions for the business and personal needs of those in our community and beyond. Since 1925, they have been a member of the Greater Shreveport Chamber, one of the oldest and longest-serving members of the Chamber.

DEREK RAINWATER, MD, JOINS WK SWAN LAKE DIABETES & ENDOCRINOLOGY

Derek Rainwater, MD, has joined WK Swan Lake Diabetes & Endocrinology, part of the Willis-Knighton Physician Network. He has broad experience in providing care in the treatment of diabetes and endocrine health and hormone

PRESENTED BY

issues. He is focused on identifying technology and treatment that can minimize patient stress as they manage their health.

A graduate of Centenary College of Louisiana, Dr. Rainwater received his medical degree at LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. He remained at LSU Health Shreveport for an internal medicine residency, followed by a fellowship in diabetes, endocrinology, and metabolism. He is board-certified in internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

MAYOR ARCENEAUX NAMES THE CITIZENS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS COMMITTEE

In a statement regarding the appointment of members of a proposed Citizens Capital Improvements Committee, Mayor Arceneaux said, “We should begin now to plan for a General Obligation bond issue election for a capital improvement to be held on April 27, 2024. This will be an intense process that will involve several meetings between now and the end of the year.”

The committee will include 19 citizens from throughout the city – two selected by each City Council member and five at-large representatives Arceneaux has selected. This is a great representation of Shreveport. We will have business and community leaders working together. Those members as of now are:

Ronald Robinson, Jacqueline Collins Sabbath, Christopher Coe, Mavice Thigpen, Louis Avallone, James West, Grant Nuckolls, Scott Ward, Steve Martin, Michael R. LaFitte, Casaundra Calloway and RJ Johnson.

Selected to serve as members at large as of now: Larry Evensky, Terry Moore, Conner Peterson, and Hilary A. Wooley.

Retired LSU-S Chancellor Dr. Larry Clark has agreed to chair the committee. There will be additional members to the committee named later.

CHRISTUS TRINITY CLINIC PARTNERS WITH SURGICAL SPECIALISTS OF SHREVEPORT

CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic (CTC) has partnered with Surgical Specialists of Shreveport which includes trademarks, Freedom from Obesity Bariatric Clinic and Body Sculpt. The Freedom From Obesity Bariatric Clinic includes locally renowned surgeon George Merriman, MD, FACS, FASMBS and Katheryn Waldrop, PA-C.

The partnership allows CTC to expand its footprint with this new service offering in the ShreveportBossier region to help meet the growing health needs of the community. The clinic offers weight loss surgery, non-surgical weight loss treatment and general surgery. The practice also has a full-time dietician to assist

Dr. Merriman is the first bariatric surgeon for CTC in the region- but he is no stranger to CHRISTUS Health. He performed one of the first robotic-assisted surgeries for weight loss at CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center. In total, Merriman has performed more than 3,000 bariatric surgeries.

HARRINGTON NAMED MARKET PRESIDENT OF RED RIVER BANK’S NORTHWEST LOUISIANA MARKET.

Red River Bank is pleased to announce Brandon Harrington has been named Market President over the bank’s Northwest Louisiana market in Shreveport/ Bossier City.

With a career in banking that spans over two decades, Brandon is a forward-thinking leader in the Commercial Banking space. A graduate of Centenary College in Shreveport, Brandon is excited to be returning to the Shreveport/ Bossier City area.

“Brandon has been a tremendous asset to our Central Louisiana market. We are now fortunate to have an industry leader of his caliber at the helm of our Northwest market. He has a high level of knowledge and expertise in commercial lending and we look forward to having him lead the Northwest team as we continue to provide personalized, banking services in Shreveport/Bossier City ,” says Blake Chatelain, President and CEO.

LSUS RANKED AMONG NATION’S BEST IN ECONOMIC MOBILITY FOR LOW-INCOME GRADUATES

LSUS ranked the highest in the state and among the nation’s best in the second annual Economic Mobility Index, which measures how effectively institutions help low-income students improve their socioeconomic level.

LSUS earned Tier 1 status, meaning it ranked in the top 20 percent of the more

than 1,300 colleges evaluated.

The report was released by the organization Third Way, a national think tank that believes higher education is critical to securing a middle-class lifestyle.

The study used data from the most recent College Scorecard, which reflects institution-level data from the 2020-21 academic year, and the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey.

Colleges that scored well tended to have affordable tuition, higher levels of low-income students, and effective services in place for low-income students to succeed. Colleges that effectively serve larger populations of low-income students were ranked highly.

IDO BRIDAL EXPO

Venue: Bossier Civic Center

Dates: October 28th

Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Info: idobridalexpo.com

JAM ON THE RED

Venue: Shreveport Aquarium

Date: Recurring weekly on Thursday

Time: 5:30 PM – 9 PM

Info: www.shreveportaquariumevents.com/jam-on-the-red

RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY®

Venue: Brookshire Grocery Arena

Dates: September 30th – October 1st

Time: See website for more information

Info: www.ringling.com

RED RIVER REVEL

Venue: Festival Plaza

Dates: September 30th – October 8th

Time: See website for more information

Info: www.redriverrevel.com

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF SHREVEPORTBOSSIER PUMPKIN PATCH

Venue: Windrush Park at Provenance

Dates: September 26th – October 27th

Time: 4pm-7pm Tues.-Thurs., 4pm-8 pm Fri., 10am-8 pm Sat., 12pm-7pm Sun.

Info: Facebook - Junior League Of ShreveportBossier Pumpkin Patch

THE RED TIE GALA

Venue: LeBossier Event Center

Dates: October 7th

Time: 7:00 PM

Info: 360enrichmentandartprogram@gmail.com

GOLDEN GOAL GALA NIGHT:

FUNDRAISER FOR SHREVEPORT MUDBUGS BOOSTER CLUB

Venue: Savoie’s The Catering Place

Dates: October 15th

Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Info: Facebook - Golden Goal Gala

1601 SPRING STREET, SHREVEPORT 318.226.1325 ERNESTSORLEANS.COM

“SERVING THE FINEST FOR OVER 60 YEARS!”

TRY ERNEST’S “SPECIAL KENTUCKY BOURBON FLIGHT”

PUMPKIN SHINE ON LINE

Venue: Betty Virginia Park

Dates: October 17th

Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Info: Facebook – Pumpkin Shine on Line

STATE FAIR OF LOUISIANA

Venue: Fairgrounds

Dates: October 26th – November 12th

Time: See website for more information

Info: www.statefairoflouisiana.com

PRIZE FEST 2023

Venue: Robinson Film Center

Dates: October 13th – October 22nd

Time: See Facebook for more information

Info: Facebook - Prize Fest

BREW: SHREVEPORT’S BEER FESTIVAL

WITCHES RIDE OF MINDEN

Venue: Downtown Minden

Dates: October 19th

Time: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Info: Facebook & Instagram - @witchesrideminden

Venue: Festival Plaza

Dates: October 28th

Time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Info: Facebook – BREW: Shreveport’s Beer Festival

How To How To

By: Alfred Ingram

Are you tired of spending your weekends binge-watching yet another Netflix series? Are your DIY muscles aching to be flexed? You might tackle some fun home improvement projects instead.

First up, why not try your hand at creating a gallery wall? It's a simple yet effective way to add some personality to your home. All you need is a collection of frames, some art or photographs, and a hammer and nails. Arrange your frames on the floor first, experimenting with different layouts until you find the perfect arrangement. Then, hang them on the wall using your trusty leveler, hammer, and nails. You now have a stunning gallery wall that's sure to impress your guests.

If you're feeling a little more adventurous, why not try your hand at painting a room? It's amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do to transform a space. Plus, it's a great way to unleash your creativity. Choose a color that speaks to you and get to work. Just be sure to cover your furniture and floors with plastic sheeting before you start to avoid any unwanted drips or spills. And remember, it's always best to do two coats of paint for a more polished finish.

For those of you who love a good DIY challenge, why not try building your own bookshelf? Not only is it a functional piece of furniture, but it's also a stylish way to display your book collection. You can find plenty of tutorials online, but the basic idea is to purchase some wood planks, cut them to size, and attach them using screws and brackets. Use a leveler to ensure you mount your shelf to the wall correctly.

And finally, for those of you who really want to push the boundaries, why not try your hand at building a treehouse? This may take a little longer than a weekend. However, it's a fun and whimsical addition to any backyard and will surely delight kids and adults alike. You'll need some basic carpentry skills and a good set of tools, but with a little effort, you can create a magical hideaway perfect for summer afternoons.

Four fun and easy DIY easy-to-handle, home improvement project ideas. So, why not put down the remote and pick up a hammer? Your home (and your soul) will thank you.

Here comes the bride

(& huge giveaways!)

The iDo Bridal Expo will be a one-stop shop for all things wedding-related. With numerous vendors and exhibitors under one roof, you can explore a wide range of options for every aspect of your special day. From venues and caterers to photographers, florists, and wedding planners, you will have the opportunity to meet professionals from various fields and learn about their services. iDo Bridal Expo are experts at taking the guesswork out of prioritizing choices and decisions.

A suggestion by top wedding planning experts, the ladies behind iDo Bridal Expo advise, “To maximize cost-efficiency, consider seeking out local vendors, comparing prices, and opting for personalized DIY projects”. With a welldefined budget, you can make informed decisions without compromising on the elements that matter most to you. iDo Bridal Expo is your one-stop shop for all things bridal under one roof. If you’re planning a budget-friendly wedding, or a lavish wedding of luxury, with over 100 vendors, the iDo Bridal Expo at the Bossier Civic Center will have something for all budgets.

Let’s talk about giveaways! The iDo Bridal Expo is your chance to have a significant part of your big day paid for. The October Grand Prize Giveaway is a venue rental at BriarRose Venues! The ladies from Brooke & Bre Bridal

are also throwing in a chance to win a gorgeous wedding gown.

The secret to a stress-free wedding planning process lies in effective organization. Creating a detailed timeline and checklist ensures that you stay on track and accomplish essential tasks at the right time. Utilize technology, such as wedding planning applications and digital calendars, to streamline your organization processes. Attending an expo, helps you get a grand overview of tasks to organize and delegate. You may even find a coordinator you love to handle the details for you. There is no other place that gives you the opportunity to meet local wedding exhibitors face to face, to ask your questions, make your plans, and get on their calendars. With careful preparation, a sprinkle of creativity, and a dash of love, your wedding day will surely be a masterpiece you’ll cherish forever.

Join us for a day filled with giveaways, raffles, photo booths, music, makeup, and all things bridal under one roof. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be a part of the wedding event of the season.

iDo Wedding Expo, October 28th, in the Bossier Civic Center is a must-do before you say I do! To join the iDo crew as a vendor or bride-to-be, please visit their website at iDoBridalExpo.com

Is there a in the house? Doctor

He was a boy back then, only 6 or 7, in the 1960s when Sansone’s on Shreveport-Barksdale Highway was about as good as it got in these parts for fine dining and uptown atmosphere. Swanky.

It is Camp Bow Wow now, so the old Sansone’s site has literally gone to the dogs. My four-legged tomboy daughter Gracie Lou gets her hair trimmed there sometimes. Things change.

But back in the day, when a gallon of milk cost 31 cents, when you could get a café burger and fries, dessert, and salad for a buck, when a new car would set you back about $2,650, Sansone’s was a step above.

Steaks and seafood. That big neon sign.

“The Home of Italian Dishes”

Stylish. Discerning. In today’s terms, Sansone’s was “all that.” So there my young friend sat, with big brother and mom and dad. A semi-fancy night out. Linen tablecloths. This was what we’d have called in our younger days “a treat.”

And then with no warning, a commotion several tables across the open dining room. Chairs pushed back and sounds of alarm. And then someone saying very loudly and with purpose, so all diners could hear, “IS THERE A DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE!?”

Oh wow. My young friend jumped to high alert. “I’m seeing who’s going to raise their hand, and I’m thinking, ‘What’s next? Will they ask if there’s a football coach in the house? A construction worker in the house? A priest in the house? How will this work?”

He thought it was going to be like a Grownup Show and Tell. And why wouldn’t he?

Still one of my favorite stories. Funny how the Kid Brain is wired.

Big brother had to explain that, no, you dufus, a diner was suffering an apparent heart attack and needed a doctor, right then. Ohhhhh…

There is the memory of an ambulance, a stretcher, the breathing but unfortunate diner being rolled out. No fault of Sansone’s, but not the best dining experience … unless you’re a boy. Then it’s unforgettable.

The elementary-school boy brain is an interesting study. Mine wanted to become a writer. I’d grown up with farmers and teachers and gas station owners and even my grandmother nurse and could see a clear path to those jobs. But who do you see to become a writer? Do you just show up to somebody and say, “I want to write and I want you to give me money for it”? I didn’t know.

Maybe one day, someone will tell me.

So, first year of college, the thought of being a doctor like a lot of professionals in this issue seemed plausible. The white coat. The pen behind the ear. The charts and all. Seemed lucrative. And once you get your Doctor Diploma, hospitals and clinics will talk to you. People will even call you “doctor.” True story. So, we took biology courses and something about anatomy and then chemistry and quickly realized, “What am I doing?

I’m uncomfortable in hospitals. I don’t want to be around sick people. I don’t want to be in school that long. I don’t want someone mad at me if I hit them too hard on the knee with the rubber hammer.”

Physician, kill thyself. So, I did. Threw that plan overboard. Because secretly, I still wanted to be a writer, and took stealthy steps in what I thought might be that direction. By not being a doctor, this assured the public I would always honor the first rule of doctoring: “Do no harm.”

You’re welcome.

In the meantime, I’m glad there are doctors in the house. And nurses in the house. And aides of all sorts. All the pros ready to duke it out with those books and classes, who continue to study to keep up with advances, who put on the scrubs day after day and do their best to keep the rest of us in the game.

“Is there a doctor in the house?” We’re grateful there always is.

Teddy Allen is an award-winning columnist and graduate of Louisiana Tech, where he works as a writer and broadcaster.