SB Magazine Top Attorneys 2021 by SB Magazine

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FEMALE JUDGES - AT THE TOP OF THEIR GAME BANKING & FINANCE SPOTLIGHT: YWCA

TOP ATTORNEYS 2021

SBMAG.NET | MAR 2021 |

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| MARCH

2021

from the

EDITOR

hase 3 – Phase 3 – Phase 3. Over a year ago we were closing everything down. Rolling up the sidewalks, crowding into the grocery stores to stock up on food supplies, hoarding toilet paper and trying to figure out this virtual learning thing. Our world was in big trouble. And people were dying from a virus that came from a laboratory in China and spread to our precious country and the rest of the world. Social distancing became the catch phrase of the time and if you didn’t wear a mask (that might or might not work – they’re still arguing about this) you were given the stink eye. Who to believe? Our scientists began working overtime seeking a vaccine to fight the virus. Doctors, nurses and other medical people suited up, double masked and donned gloves to work hours upon hours to help those suffering from the virus. My best friend from high school, a respiratory therapist, told me it was beyond brutal. It was the hardest she has ever worked and the physical and mental strain was often unbearable. So much so that she decided to retire this year. President Trump managed a miracle by greenlighting big pharma to produce a vaccine in the shortest period in history. We all felt relieved a little bit. Now, the number of cases is going down drastically and several states are getting back to normal. Not ours, yet. Small businesses by the thousands have shuttered their doors because of the decisions of our lawmakers. Schools are still closed in some areas and our kids are suffering immensely because of it. Suicides among our teens is up, school drop-out rates are up and you can only imagine how families are suffering to make it through this pandemic with a roof over their head. But I believe – there is still hope. I’ve seen how our community has come together to help one another through these unprecedented times. Our faith is being tested and it’s up to us to make the best of it. One of my favorite scriptures sums this up: Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4 Please enjoy the 2021 addition of SB Magazine’s Top Attorneys. Thank you Shreveport-Bossier City!

PUBLISHER G. Byron May

OWNERS G. Byron May Seva May Noble Feldman

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ursula Brantley Adam Bailey Becky Cunningham Gwendolyn Walker

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2021

COLUMNS: 10

The Beauty Boss

SB Art & Culture

SB Pets

SB Home Matters

102 SB Real Estate 108 SB Sweets & Eats 110

Good To Know

114

SB Calendar

116

SB Living

120 Eye on SB 122

Crafter's Corner

124 SB Arts & Crafts 125

SB Recipes

126 SB LUXE

FEATURES: 38

March Home Feature

Shreveport-Bossier Female Judges – At the Top of Their Game

118

March Non-Profit Spotlight: YWCA

SPECIAL SECTION:

Banking and Finance

2021 Top Attorneys

ON THE COVER On the Cover: Top to Bottom/Left to Right Audrius M. Reed Joshua K. Williams Elizabeth Hancock John Marshall Rice Lori C. Graham Monique Y. Metoyer John R. Harris Luke Thaxton Sarah Giglio Zach Shadinger

MARCH 2021

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THE FUTURE OF HEALTHCARE

CONTINUES

Healthcare has a new name in Benton and it starts with WK

WK Palmetto Health Park in Benton opens March 15 to welcome patients in Benton and North Bossier. It’s the first of three scheduled to open this year featuring: • WK Physician Network Clinics WK Palmetto Family Practice, with Lindsey T. Brown, MD, is the first network clinic to open at WK Palmetto Health Park, offering primary care for every member of the family. (318) 935-1522. • WK Quick Care The care you’ve learned to trust is now in north Bossier with WK Quick Care—7 a.m. to 7 p.m., 7 days a week—for your minor illnesses and accidents. No appointment is required. • WK Diagnostic Service Center The exceptional diagnostic services available include X-ray, bone density, ultrasound, laboratory and 3D mammography. Any Willis-Knighton physician can order your service at this location. And look for similar locations opening later this year in Bossier at Stockwell and Swan Lake and Northwood in Blanchard. We’re here to make care more convenient than ever. Count on your hometown hospital to be Always Here for you.

1001 Lackland Blvd. (off Palmetto Road) in Benton

SBMAG.NET

| MARCH

2021

SHREVEPORT E XCLUSIVE CONCIER GE

Jacqueline A. Scott

SHREV EP O RT E XC LU S I V E C ON CI E R GE I S ALWAYS O N T I ME F O R YOUR LUXURY T R A NS P ORTAT I O N TO YO U R E N T E RTAI N ME N T E VE NTS.

Shreveport Exclusive Concierge is the premier transportation service for Shreveport/Bossier area, offering reliable and professional service to passengers. Our Mercedes van and Bentley can transport you to weddings, prom, homecoming, bachelor/bachelorette parties, nights out on the town, and more! We also offer transportation to the Court House!

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sponsored content

AMBIENCE AND CONCEPT

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epito has faced many challenges in life— from migrating to America, then working his way to restaurant ownership only to open its doors during a pandemic, and most recently, forging through the perils of our City’s 2021 Sneauxmageddon. Despite all obstacles, Pepito continues to inspire the hottest restaurant & bar in Shreveport! Is it any wonder why Mexican wrestling, otherwise known as the Lucha Libre, is the main theme of Pepito & Co.? Tired of the ole cliches of the Mexican restaurant scene with its maracas, sombreros, and Pancho Villa photos, Pepito believes there is much more to Mexican culture. Embracing his fervor for Lucha Libre is an inspiring concept that permeates the décor of Pepito’s & Co. From Pepito’s logo, to his personal extensive Maskaras (mask) collection, the restaurant pays homage to the Mexican wrestling tradition. Dozens of Luchador masks are carefully displayed in trophy like cases built into the massive bar along with murals and colorful graffiti artwork on the restaurant walls.

What is Lucha Libre? Lucha Libre (“free fighting”) is know for its wild aerial moves, grand theatrics and of course colorful masks. It is an important part of the Mex-

ican culture that Pepito grew up watching. The Luchadors—Lucha Libre Wrestlers, wear masks that play an important role in wrestling storylines which all happens in the ring. Luchadors identity is usually kept secret, but they can be composed of people from all walks of life. From priests, chefs, to comedians and business owners. The Luchador’s mask is sacred and represents the wrestler’s persona. There are good guys and bad guys in this Mexican Marvel universe. Losing a mask can send a wrestler into obscurity, therefore, a Luchador will defend it to the end. Pepito chose the Lucha Libre culture for his restaurant theme because it embodies the spirit of Pepito & Co. and fits perfectly with its menu ideas and the restaurant’s exciting and vibrant atmosphere. Pepito’s & Co. is calling for all artist to embrace their Lucha Libre spirit by participating in the a Luchador Mask art contest. PEPITO’S LUCHA LIBRE MARVEL MASK UNIVERSE COMPETITION: ʯ Only one entry per person. ʯ Enter your design/sketch to info@pepitosandco.com ʯ Deadline for submission: April 15, 2021 ʯ Deadline for finalist selection: June 5th, 2021 ʯ Selections will be displayed in Pepito’s where winners can sell their artwork.

Buena suerte artista!

(Good Luck Artists!!) SBMAG.NET

| MARCH

2021

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Introducing the all new Holmes Volvo Cars With an innovative approach to what’s important, Volvo has a history of putting your safety first and at Holmes Volvo Cars, we have a rich automotive history spanning back over sixty years. Dedicated to “Making It Easy” for every single customer, from those who visit our new dealership to those who choose to browse our virtual showroom with EasyPass. We promise you an excellent customer service experience and the best maintenance and service for your Volvo. Personal, professional, and efficient.

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| MARCH

2021

the beauty BOSS’s guide to style by JonPaule Calcote

This month I’m stripping you down to the basics. I’m talking about the staple pieces every woman should have in their closets and beauty bags. These pieces are where you want to spend your money as they are timeless and certainly should be thought of as an investment. They are easily transitioned throughout the seasons and even easier to update and modernize by paring with trending pieces and accessories. I’ve decided to give this information to you in check list form so you can take a solid inventory of your closet to insure you have the foundation needed to build a successful wardrobe. So, let’s start at the top and work a way down.

1. Tops. These are classic tops needed in every closet. They can be worn casually or formalized depending on how you style them. • • • •

2. Bottoms. The essential bottoms need to craft grate style.

• • • •

A pair of black and blue jeans. The fit and wash are completely a personal preference. A pair of black slacks; Perfect for the office or happy hour. A pair of khaki trousers; for those cool easy breezy days. An A-line pencil skirt. To keep it more versatile, choose one in a neutral shade.

3. Dresses. If you are a woman who wears dresses, there are a few style must-haves you should be sure to include in your collection.

•

Simple black and white fitted tee shirt; effortless and cool but O-So- Chic. Classic white button-down dress shirt. A fashion faithful for day or night looks. Fitted black turtleneck for slick sophisticated style. A light weight crew neck sweater. A piece that is adaptable for any time of year.

• • •

The wrap dress. It looks fabulous on any body type, on any occasion. The little black dress; also known as the swiss army knife of dresses for its cunning versatility. A cute little sun dress; for those flirty carefree vibes. A shirt dress; for those sporty fun on-the-go days.

4. Outer wear. Whether it’s a full-length coat or a lite cardigan, outer wear is a must to maintain comfort throughout the fluctuating seasons. •

• •

•

5. Shoes.

Shoes are my personal favorite when it comes to fashion. Adding the right shoe has the undeniable ability to tone down or elevate any look.

•

• •

•

MARCH 2021

| SBMAG.NET

A waste cut denim jacket. The color of your denim jacket is going to determine how formal or casual your looks is. The classic trench coat. This piece can dress up even the most casual of out fits. A neutral colored cardigan; for seasonal comfort year-round. A leather jacket. This is a go to when u want to add a little sass and edge to your look.

Neutral colored athletic sneaker. Whether it’s running errands or traveling, a cute sneaker is a must have and always comes in handy at some point. The ankle boot. Always choose a pair that flatters your legs and are comfy on your feet. Nude colored pumps. They can be worn with anything from jeans to dresses and go with every color in the rainbow and then some. Ballerina flats; for when you want to look a little more dressed up but feel comfortable.

6. Bags. There are so many options when it comes to selecting a bag but there are really only four styles out there that myself and fashion insiders deem necessary.

•

• •

The over-sized tote; for those days when life is a little hectic and you need to bring a lot on the go with you. A compact cross body. Perfect for when you just need to have an I.D, a few credit cards, your cell phone and some cash. “You know…The essentials”. A formal clutch. A must have for those formal events or even just a night on the town. A stylish backpack; perfect for looking cute while traveling or keeping up with your belongings on family outings such as amusement parks and museums.

7. Accessories. Accessories are perfect for adding a

little sparkle and shine to any outfit any time of year.

• • • •

A thin cut belt in black and brown. The finish of your belt’s hardware is a personal preference. Aviator sunglasses. They are timelessly cool and have the uncandid ability to add a chic edge to your look. A minimalist watch. Choose something simple and elegant that can be worn everyday with any look. Stud earrings; for that delicate, just enough sparkle that can be worn on any day at any time

8. Makeup Bag Essentials. Here is A Go-To list of products to create that every day, perfectly polished, makeup look. • • • • • •

Long Wear Foundation Long Wear Concealer Blush and /or Bronzer Tinted Brow Gel Translucent Powder Mascara

• • • •

Tinted Lip Balm Eyeliner - in the shade of your choice An Eyelash Curler Facial Cleansing Wipes

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March 12-21, 2021 in the EMMETT HOOK CENTER 7:30PM, Fridays, March 12 & 19 • 3:00PM, Saturdays, March 13 & 20 3:00PM, Sundays, March 14 & 21

DIRECTOR, Richard Folmer MUSIC DIRECTOR, Robert Cruz STARRING Clay Eaves, Robert Holladay, Rick Stovall, and Jeremy Yang

Tickets: $15 Children & Students, $20 Seniors & Military, $25 Adults Tickets available (318) 429-6885, www.emmetthookcenter.org Box office open weekdays from March 1, 2021, Noon-4PM FOREVER PLAID is presented through special arrangement with Musical Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.

I’d love to hear from you and answer any questions you might have pertaining to beauty. Email me at jonpaule@sbmag.net

SBMAG.NET

| MARCH

2021

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THESTAGEBOSSIER.COM

Doctors’ Day 2021

to our team of more than 1,000 physicians, including the residents and fellows, who care for our community. At Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, our doctors are working tirelessly each day to ensure the health and well-being for all in our community, no matter the circumstances. With more than 70 specialties, our team treats some of the most common and most complex health concerns with the same dedication and compassion. Our advanced Critical Care team and healthcare heroes continue to selflessly provide care to the most vulnerable patients in our area. These same doctors also work to train and support the next generation of doctors who will follow in their footsteps. We thank you for all you do!

Together. Stronger.

SBMAG.NET

| MARCH

2021

BANKING &FINANCE W 14

MARCH 2021

| SBMAG.NET

hile having an investment strategy is an important part of a successful financial future, there is much more to consider when preparing a comprehensive financial plan. A good plan is based on both short-term and long-term goals. It must account for risk tolerance, diversification, and asset allocation. A solid grasp on budgeting, savings, investing, and spending will give you the building blocks for a fruitful financial future. Of course, there are a variety of ways to map out financial goals. Check out some of our local finance and investment businesses and see how they can help you!

ashmere Hair Salon is an upscale salon located in the heart of Shreveport on Line Avenue. The modern and chic salon offers an advanced take on hair technology and uses the best quality hair care. The cleanliness of the salon is outstanding and meets all expectations of what a professional salon should be. The hairstylists are quick to greet everyone who walks through the door with big smiles. Their mission, at Cashmere, is to make everyone feel welcomed. If you are looking for a relaxing yet fun hair experience, Cashmere is the right salon for you.

TATIANA GARLAND OWNER/STYLIST

The hairstylists at Cashmere take pride in their work and will give you the best hair care possible. They will provide their professional advice according to your hair type, complexion, lifestyle, personality, and profession. Not only will they have you feeling beautiful by the end of your appointment, but they will also make you feel extremely comfortable. The stylist’s welcome clients of all ages and can provide services for the whole family. The services provided at Cashmere are custom cuts, color, fusion extensions with Great Lengths brand, balayage, lived in natural color, Brazilian smoothing treatments, makeup and eyebrow tint and shape. Cashmere is a place for you to leave your worries behind. Pour yourself a cup of fresh coffee, let your hair down and relax. Their promise to you is for you to leave the salon feeling refreshed, recharged, and happy. Book an appointment today!

318-779-1960 6112 LINE AVE. SHREVEPORT, LA CASHMERE.SALON @CASHMEREHAIRSALON SBMAG.NET

| MARCH

2021

banking& personal

FINANCE TIPS2021

MARCH 2021

| SBMAG.NET

t starts with you making good banking decisions and making necessary changes to improve your personal financial future. The sooner you get started, the sooner you’ll sleep better at night. Here are a few tips to launch you on your way:

Not all checking accounts are the same. Choose the type that’s best for you based on the features of the account (fees, interest-earning, etc).

Know the rules associated with your account such as deposit and balance requirements.

Take the time to set up the automatic features of your account. The easiest feature is automatic paycheck deposit. Your bank may offer a feature where you can have a portion of your paycheck deposited into a savings account.

Know exactly what the bank fees are. These fees – maintenance, overdraft, low balance, etc.- are what it costs you to keep the account open.

Tailored strategies to grow, protect, and transfer your wealth. What is your goal? M Financial

freedom? M Retire early? M Live the good life?

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Let’s start yours with a conversation.

Matt Hudnall, Financial Adviser offering investment advisory services through Eagle Strategies LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registered Representative offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC (member FINRA/SIPC), a Licensed Insurance Agency. Matt Hudnall, MBA, Arkansas Insurance License #413955 SBMAG.NET | MARCH 2021 17 Hudnall Wealth is not owned or operated by Eagle Strategies, LLC or it’s affiliates.

Look at your checking account on a weekly basis to make sure your transactions are accurate and that you have adequate funds for your expenses.

Keep a close eye on bank card transactions. It pays to keep a running log that will help to manage your transactions and spot any suspicious activity.

Pay yourself first. Open a savings account and use it for a portion of your earnings. Your bank can offer you options for any stage of your personal financial growth. TIPS2021

JPJ INVESTMENTS

Established in 1984 as an independent wealth management, growth and capital preservation financial company, JPJ Investments now serves JPJ INVESTMENTS clients inEstablished 13 statesin 1984 across USA. Because we’re as anthe independent wealth independent, our clients choose from a vast array management, growth and capital preservation financial company, JPJ Investments now serves of resources ,JPJ representing the full spectrum of INVESTMENTS clients in 24 states across the USA. Because we’re available products such as stocks, bonds, mutual Established in 1984 as an independent wealth independent, our clients choose from a vast array growth andthecapital preservation of resources, representing full spectrum of funds,management, ETF’s, UIT’s, annuities and traditional financial company, JPJ asInvestments serves available productsThrough such stocks,our bonds,now mutual insurance options. broker-dealer, clients in ETF’s, 13 states across the USA. Because we’re funds, UIT’s, annuities and traditional Royal independent, Alliance Inc., specialize in feeour clients choose from a vast array insuranceAssociates options. Through ourwe broker-dealer, Royal Alliance, where Associates we specialize in fee- of resources representing the full spectrum based ofportfolios, weInc., eliminate commissions based portfolios, where we commissions available products suchgoals. aseliminate stocks, bonds, mutual and focus on your Whether you are andETF’s, focus onUIT’s, your goals. Whetherand you are an funds, annuities traditional an individual, family or small business, individual, family or small business, our goal is to insurance options. Through our broker-dealer,we’re meet yourwe’ll financial needsInc., with thespecialize products and confident that exceed your expectations. Royal Alliance Associates we in fee- We services we offer through Royal Alliancecommissions Associates based portfolios, where you! we eliminate look forward to meeting Inc. We look forward to meeting you! and focus on your goals. Whether you are an individual, family TRUST orISsmall “YOUR IS “YOUR TRUST OURbusiness, MOST we’re confident that we’ll exceed your expectations. We VALUABLE ASSET!” ASSET!” OUR MOST VALUABLE look forward to meeting you! Securities and investment advisory services offered

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Royal TRUST through Royal “YOUR Alliance Associates, Inc. IS (RAA), member Alliance Associates, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. FINRA/SIPC. RAA (RAA), is separately owned and other entities RAA is OUR MOST VALUABLE ASSET!” separately and/or owned and other and/or marketing names, entities products or services marketing referenced names, products or services here services areofindependent RAA. here are independent RAA. Securities andreferenced investment advisory offered throughofRoyal Alliance Associates, Inc. (RAA), member FINRA/SIPC. RAA is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of RAA.

Financial Advisors

Financial Advisors President Joe Psalmonds, CFP®, Beau&CFP®, Williams, Financial Advisors Employees (L-R) President Joe Psalmonds, Beau Williams, Hunter Greene, CFP® Secretary; Jacob Renfroe, Assistant; Beau Williams, VP; Freida Fontineau, Executive Hunter Greene,Hunter CFP® and Rob Harper Greene, CFP® and Rob Harper Assistant; Joe Psalmonds, CFP® President; Rob Harper, Treasurer; Joanna Ball, Office Manager

Dee Street, Shreveport, LA 71105 • 318-222-8999 • jpjinvestments.com • facebook.com/jpjinvestments hreveport, LA3201 71105 • 318-222-8999 • jpjinvestments.com • facebook.com/jpjinvestments

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Serving the Wealth Management Needs of Northwest Louisiana Argent is a leading, independent wealth management firm that has served clients for over 30 years and today has responsibility for over $30 billion in client assets. We provide individuals and families with a broad range of services, including trusts and estate planning, investment management and oil and gas (mineral) management, as well as a variety of services for businesses and institutions.

Gary Moore

MARKET PRESIDENT, LOUISIANA

Dut LeBlanc

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Tim Quinn

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

Jim Ferraro

TRUST COUNSEL

Trust & Estate Planning | Wealth Management | Investment Management | Oil & Gas Management

333 Texas Street, Ste 699, Shreveport, LA 71101

(318) 588-6500

www.ArgentTrust.com

8. Set up dedicated accounts for your special purchases such as a college fund, a dream vacation or new car.

TIPS2021

9. Get to know your banker. Their job is to provide support and guidance for handling your money and planning for retirement. 10. Your bank works for you. Have them set up alerts to let you know when your balance is low or if you have overdrawn your account.

, LLC

Ameriprise Financial Services, L.LC. Member FINRA and SIPC

MARCH 2021

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A REGISTERED INVESTMENT A DVISOR

Otto Grozinger FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Eagle Strategies, LLC is an independent wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Insurance Company. SMRU #1877899 EXP 11/22/2022

PRIVATE BANKING. ALWAYS ON. Our private bankers never stop thinking about your finances. From long-range plans to last-minute opportunities, you can always expect solutions that are as unique as you.

Elizabeth C Maxwell 318-675-2907

Katie N. Provenza 318-675-2937

Loyd Comegys 318-675-2909

Bridges Hall 318-675-2914

Made in Louisiana. Made for Louisiana.

redriverbank.net • 318-675-2908 Alexandria • Baton Rouge • Lake Charles • Northshore • Shreveport

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| MARCH

2021

[L-R]: Davor Poljak and Denis Poljak

Morgan Stanley is proud to congratulate

Denis Poljak, CFP,® CIMA,® CPM® and Davor Poljak, CPM® Named one of Forbes’ Best-in-State Wealth Advisors Being named to Forbes’ 2021 Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list is a testament to your experience, professionalism and dedication to your clients. Thank you for the work you do each day and for carrying forward the culture of excellence at our firm. Poljak Group at Morgan Stanley Denis Poljak, CFP,® CIMA,® CPM® Portfolio Management Director Senior Vice President Wealth Advisor Recognized in 2019, 2020 & 2021 Davor Poljak, CPM® Portfolio Management Director Senior Vice President Financial Advisor Recognized in 2021 333 Texas Street, Suite 925 Shreveport, LA 71101 318-677-5426 denis.poljak@morganstanley.com davor.poljak@morganstanley.com advisor.morganstanley.com/pg Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP,® CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the US. Source: Forbes.com (February, 2021). Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes: client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors pay a fee to Forbes or SHOOK Research in exchange for the ranking. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com. MARCH 2021 | SBMAG.NET 22 Morgan © 2021 Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 3450015 02/21 CS 9985516 02/21

During such unprecedented times, we have to find medical solutions that are safe and effective for our loved ones. In order to protect some of our most vulnerable, eMD has come out with a telehealth mobile app that connects the patient to a live doctor, at all times, in any state. During covid, doctor’s offices and hospitals can be frightening. Our older generations that may be starting to experience neurological effects of Alzheimer’s may not need to go into those environments. The fear of leaving comfortable surroundings and environments may be detrimental rather than helpful. The number of people allowed in doctor’s offices and rooms can make attending your loved one’s appointments difficult. eMD can help!

ROCK BORDELON

CHAIRMAN Rock Bordelon serves as the Chairman of the Board and is the President and CEO of Allegiance Health Management. Mr. Bordelon brings operational expertise along with professional clinical experience to the acute and post-acute health care industry. Mr. Bordelon’s background in nursing, case management, and medical facility management has helped him develop and structure AHM and eMD as companies that focus on patient care, access, and overall accountability in community health. Mr. Bordelon is a visionary leader and an advocate for health care accessibility, rural health care, and quality patient care. He serves on the governing board for all affiliated facilities.

JOSEPH M. MONSOUR, JR.

FOUNDER & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Mr. Monsour has decades of professional experience in business development and technology integration which allows him to stand out among his peers in the design, delivery, and support of telehealth solutions. Most recently, as founder and CEO of eMD Telehealth Solutions, Joe is responsible for fortifying strategic partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, revenue cycles, and marketing. His hands-on approach is gaining quick, international visibility for eMD Telehealth Solutions making them an unmatched solutions provider in the telehealthcare arena.

DOUGLAS K. TERRELL

CHIEF TECHNICAL OFFICER Mr. Terrell began his professional career in 1986 as an electronics technician in the U.S. Navy where he served abroad the USS George C. Marshal SSBN 654 nuclear submarine. After serving our country, he received degrees in Cardiopulmonary Science and Sociology from LSU Health Science Center and subsequently acted as Chief Operations Officer of Wellnecessities/Vital Sleep Diagnostics for over 11 years.

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he creation of the pearl is a gradual, even tedious, process. Slowly, the oyster adds layer after thin layer of nacre (mother of pearl) until the pearl is transformed. The oyster does this quietly, almost secretly. Every oyster shell design in Allison Rhymes Designs collection comes with a card that tells the story of how something as precious and as beautiful as a pearl is created and how that formation represents the Lord’s grace in our lives. To Allison, this is the most important part of the gift. As her customers share her creations with their friends and families, so too is the meaning of the pearl as it is shared in the Bible. Like the pearl, we begin as an irritant on God’s creation because of our human nature and sin. “But because He loves us, we are covered by the blood of Jesus Christ, and gradually we can become a thing of beauty, clothed with the righteousness of Him who bought us.” (bibletools.org)

Allison Rhymes has always been artistically blessed. However, her career path led her to a love for nursing. She works full time as the Clinical Administrator of Vital Health Care Group. During a gap in her employment, Allison filled her free time by painting. She posted her work on Facebook where it was seen by her close friend, Brandy Canatella. Brandi convinced her to show her pieces at Canatella’s Interiors which in turn led to art shows, art walks and pop ups. Another dear friend, Cassie Stone (owner of 318 Art and Garden on Southfield in Shreveport), asked her to create crosses using the oyster shell as a medium. As Allison began the task of cleaning the bulky shells, smaller shells fell off. These cute little baby oysters gave Allison the idea of creating jewelry. Out came her husband’s drill and the tiniest drill bit she could find and what began with oyster shell crosses expanded into a full line of jewelry. That year, 2017, her creations flew off the shelf at a Women’s Department Club

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event. By 2018, Allison was in the Le Boutique de Noel where she spent the days visiting with her new customers and her nights making more jewelry and other accessories to keep up with demand. That same year she had a booth at the Red River Revel and had customers from all over buying and gifting her pieces. Life was wonderful. Husband, Jimmy (the videographer for the Bill Dance Outdoor fishing show) and teenage daughter, Jillie (currently a freshman at Byrd High School) are Allison’s moral support and biggest fans, naturally. Then – 2020 happened. Festivals, craft shows and similar events were cancelled overnight and just like that – Allison’s newfound passion was reduced to Facebook posts and word-of-mouth. Thankfully, there was a different plan in store for Allison Rhymes Designs. Allison wasn’t going to let a pandemic bring a stop to the satisfaction she got from creating jewelry and art pieces. Or the joy she felt when a client calls who absolutely loves her new necklace and wants to gift a loved one with a piece of this unique jewelry. With much prayer and a lot of faith, an opportunity to open a storefront in Shreveport presented itself in the form of a little boutique on Montrose. The Gilded Oyster opened its doors in October 2020. Yes, right in the middle of Covid and her showroom has been a huge success. But to Allison, it’s not about the

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income from her work. She loves making each piece special in its design and creating new pieces to add to her collection. She is thrilled to see people wearing her jewelry as part of their ensemble. She looks forward to meeting her clients, getting to know them and to being a part of their gifting experience. And she truly loves to see how the story of the oyster touches peoples lives. Today, you can purchase a true collector’s item, designed and created by a gifted local artist by visiting Allison-rhmes-designs. myshopify.com or popping into her boutique at 818 Montrose, just across from Superior Bar & Grille on Line Avenue in Shreveport. I promise you will not be disappointed. And, you will be blessed.

Rev-Up Your Child’s summer with LSUS Camps

LSUS Continuing Education is bringing summer day camps back to give kids and teens in the Shreveport-Bossier area an adventurous, active and healthy summer. We are looking forward to welcoming your student back on campus! LSUS youth camp programs offer fun and educational experiences with an opportunity to discover a variety of interests, meet new friends, and create memories that last a lifetime. Summer is the ideal time for kids to get out and explore educational and recreational activities to help them learn and grow in a safe environment. Children need to regain normalcy, and participating in structured summer camps will enable them to thrive socially, emotionally and develop skills when they’re out of school. Reopening summer camps will benefit not only your child but the entire family. Parents can work productively knowing that their children will be taken care of during the day camps. LSUS Continuing Education summer camps offer something of interest for every child. Throughout June and July, kids will develop their interests in STEM, robotics, 3D printing, sports, art, law, history, digital design, coding, and much more! Some of the new available summer camps are:

Mindstorm Robotics in Python (Ages 7 -10, Mon – Fri, 7/12 – 7/16, 9 am – 3 pm) (Ages 11 – 14, Mon – Fri, 7/26 – 7/30, 9 am – 3 pm) (Ages 8 – 11, MWF, 6/21- 6/25, 9 am – 12:30 pm) School of Wizards (Ages 13 – 16, Mon – Fri, 6/7 – 6/11, 9 am – 3:30 pm) Red River Junior Historian (Ages 13 – 17, Mon – Fri, 6/21 – 6/25, 9 am – 12 pm) Summer Legal Institute (Ages 8 -11, Mon – Fri, 6/21 – 6/25, 9 am – 11:30 am) Doodles & Sketches (Ages 12 – 15, Mon – Fri, 7/19 – 7/23, 9 am – 11:30 am) Brain Camp, At LearningRX Center (Ages 5 and Up, Mon – Thurs, 6/7 – 6/10, 9 am - 11 am) (Ages 10 – 13, Mon – Thurs, 6/28 – 7/1, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm) Soccer with Radi Baltov If you have enrolled your children in LSUS Continuing Education summer camps in the past, just know that you may see some changes this year. All in-person LSUS Continuing Education summer camps will follow the pandemic guidelines, including face masks, social distancing and 50 percent capacity. These measures will help your whole family have a fun and safe summer. Summer camp registration is now open. For detailed summer camp information, visit www.ce.lsus.edu or call 318.798.4177. Space is limited, so it’s recommended that you register early before your kid’s favorite camp fills up! *Special feature brought to you by LSUS Continuing Education

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Making progress where you need us. When we became Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport in October 2018, we committed to increase access to high-quality healthcare and invest in our people, facilities, equipment and technology to improve the health and wellness of our community. Thanks to the commitment of our team and our partners, we have made remarkable progress, even amidst pandemic challenges. And, we remain focused on improving healthcare for our region.

Advancing healthcare • Louisiana’s first Louisiana Emergency Response Network-recognized Pediatric Trauma Program. • Launched virtual visits and began new digital medicine and telehealth programs ranging from chronic disease management to critical care. • Louisiana’s first Advanced Interventional Cardiology Suite. • Launched TeleStork, increasing monitoring of laboring mothers to improve birth outcomes. • Continuing to support our region’s critical care needs as a Level 1 Trauma Center and Stroke Center.

Improving access to care • Continuing to grow a team of more than 500 providers in 70 specialties. • Increased employees by more than 600 full-time jobs. • Providing healthcare for rural areas through telemedicine, affiliations including the North Caddo Medical Center; and increased inpatient transfers for specialty care. • Continuing our mission to provide healthcare for everyone in our community with increased accessibility regardless of the patient’s ability to pay or insurance. • Expanded the capacity and services for behavioral health patients in a healing environment at our new Louisiana Behavioral Health facility, in partnership with Oceans Healthcare.

Expanding and improving facilities • Invested more than $200 million in renovations, infrastructure upgrades, new biomedical equipment and new locations. • Renovated more than 225,000 square feet at our St. Mary Medical Center, contributing to our area’s revitalization. • $50 million invested at our academic medical center on Kings Highway for renovations, infrastructure, technology and biomedical equipment. • Expanded our ICU capacity by more than 60% with the most advanced critical care specialists in our region. • Opened multiple new locations in the community, including our St. Vincent Health Center: a $1 million clinic in a previously underserved area for healthcare.

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WE GOT THE SHOT! #VACCINATED

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BEANS, BULLETS & BANDAGES As a First Sergeant in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves, Joe Vance Smith took good care of his company, supplying “beans, bullets, and bandages” to serve their needs. Ironically, after 28 years of service and multiple combat tours in Vietnam, the Middle East, Bosnia, and the Iraqi war, Joe nearly became a civilian casualty on his own farm. While using a tractor-powered auger to dig post holes, the spinning shaft caught his pant leg and wrapped it tightly, tearing his foot off at the ankle. After three surgeries, weeks in the VA hospital, and months of rehabilitation, he eventually received a custom prosthesis from one of Snell’s experienced practitioners. “I knew where I was before the accident—and where I wanted to be after I got back on my feet,” said Smith. “That’s what kept me going.” Thanks to prosthetic care with the personal touch Snell’s staff shares, Joe continues to enjoy his retirement and live a productive life.

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SB PETS | by hailey lawson

Bizarre DOG BEHAVIORS W e’ve all heard the saying, “a dog is man's best friend.” As a companion, many of us couldn't imagine life without our dogs. We share our homes with them and love them like children. But that doesn't keep us from shaking our heads in bewilderment while saying, “why does my dog do that...what is wrong with him?!” However, it turns out your dog often has a reason for these bizarre behaviors!

My dog walks in circles before lying down. Many peculiar behaviors we see in dogs today remain from their wild past before the domestication of dogs. Circling before lying down is one of these ancestral quirks. Because wild dogs slept in leaves and grass, circling before lying down would help clear insects and snakes from an area. Also, circling would flatten out the area making it more comfortable for a good sleep while creating a visible signal to other wild dogs that this space is taken. My dog tilts his head when listening. Dogs have exceptional hearing, but often they must tilt their heads to locate the source of a sound. Head tilting repositions a dog’s ears and opens its ear canals. Small changes in sound from different ear positions help pinpoint the direction of a sound. Dogs also tilt their heads when listening to us speak. This is an involuntary muscle movement while they wait for familiar words or phrases. You can test this theory for yourself. Start by saying to your dog, “do you wanna…” and watch for that classic head tilt as they wait for the next phrase, “go for a walk?”

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My dog sniffs butts. A butt sniff for dogs is like a handshake for humans. This behavior seems completely absurd – and it certainly would be for humans, but it’s absolutely normal for dogs. The chemicals associated with the smell tell dogs a lot about each other. It lets them know if the other dog is male or female, its age, its health, its diet, and even its mood. Dogs have a sense of smell that is 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive than humans. For example, if a pot roast is cooking in the oven, you will most likely recognize the smell as a delicious pot roast. However, your dog will smell much more than you. They will perceive each individual ingredient – the beef, the potatoes, the carrots, celery, salt, and spices – as a separate and distinct smell. My dog howls at some sounds. Many dogs howl when they hear certain sounds. Dogs often howl when they hear an emergency vehicle siren, when a particular song plays on the radio, or even when a musical instrument is played. Howling is another ancestral behavior that has been passed down to domesticated dogs. Howling is a form of communication that allows a dog to announce its presence or speak to other dogs far away. Many people believe that dogs howl because a sound hurts their ears, but this is simply not true. My dog humps other dogs, objects, or even people. Don’t worry! Your dog’s humping is usually not sexual in nature. If it were, neutered and female dogs would not hump your leg, pillow, or friend. Humping is a normal response to over-excite-

ment, over-stimulation, or even sometimes anxiety. The best way to stop this behavior is just to ignore it as much as possible. Getting excited or laughing will reinforce this unwanted behavior and teach your dog that he’ll get attention from this action. Just remember your dog is just doing what comes naturally. My dog chases her tail. Dogs chase their tails for many reasons. Some are just wacky, while others might have more serious implications. Many dogs, especially puppies, simply chase that silly thing for fun. However, for some dogs, tail chasing is a learned behavior from being kept in a kennel that’s too small. But for other dogs, it might be an obsessive-compulsive disorder that may require treatment with medication. Also, your dog might chase its tail to bite at fleas or because of irritated anal glands. Most importantly, if the tail chasing is excessive or results in injury to the tail, make a visit to your veterinarian. My dog rolls around in smelly stuff. The stinkier, the better! Dogs love rolling around in gross stuff. This is another one of those behaviors passed down from a dog’s wild ancestors. Dogs roll in nasty things to mask their own scent, making it a lot easier to surprise prey. Some people believe roll-

ing in something gross is just the way dogs tout to other dogs that they’ve found something wonderful. My dog eats grass. A little grass-eating is definitely not something to worry about. It’s an instinctive dog behavior for a tummy ache. The grass helps to induce a dog to throw up, especially when the grass is swallowed without much chewing. Be aware of sudden increases in grass-munching as it could be a sign of a more serious medical condition that your dog is trying its best to self-treat. My dog kicks when her belly is scratched. Dogs love a good belly rub. And, if you find their “sweet spot,” you can watch their legs go wild because of something known as the scratch reflex. Nerves involuntarily cause the kicking motion under their skin. These nerves are connected to their spinal cord and relay a message to their legs to kick without passing through the brain. Veterinarians can use the scratch reflex to identify nerve damage in a dog, much the same as a doctor might use the knee-jerk reflex on you. Many of the odd and zany behaviors displayed by our dogs might just make us wonder about their sanity. However, just remember – it’s only dogs being dogs. Many things you do on a daily basis might seem utterly strange to them as well. Whether an animal or a human, we all have a few quirks. What bizarre behaviors does your pooch possess?

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French-Style A DREAMY

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by adam bailey

amily-friendly, thoughtfully designed, and unassuming, —located in south Shreveport’s Lakeside on Long Lake neighborhood—features classic elements any new homebuyer would crave. And just as homes come in all shapes and sizes, so too does the ability to elicit swoon-worthy reactions. When a home nails this, it’s called curb appeal. Step inside and see why this home has it!

You still love that darling little home in Broadmoor, you were so lucky to snag, the one that sits right in the middle of all the action. But now it is feeling a little, can you say, cramped. Or maybe you live in a thirdfloor walk-up that just won’t do now that you’re a parent. Having children in tow means your priorities often shift. Proximity to the bars, restaurants, and nightlife you used to love becomes less important than school districts, crime rates, and a sense of community.

e Home

with Serious Curb Appeal

Enter Lakeside on Long Lake. If location means everything in real estate, then this neighborhood has the winning strategy cornered. Surrounded by Long Lake itself, its location couldn’t be more ideal. It’s a mere minutes from the City via I-49, yet still secluded enough for “country” living. This quiet, family oriented, gated community—just shy of two hundred homes—has friendly neighbors and beautiful custom-designed homes of all sizes. Conveniences such as gas stations, restaurants, banks, pharmacies, and grocery stores are just around the corner, so it’s easy it see how you can still see the stars at night without being drowned out by the city lights. “Real estate is hot in south Shreveport”, says realtor Angelina Matranga of Century 21 Elite. “Transfer residents are moving to the area and many locals, especially new homeowners and growing families, are waiting patiently for the perfect property to emerge in the neighborhood of their choice at the edge of town.” Though Matranga admits that every client is differSBMAG.NET

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Give Your Bathroom the Golden Touch With the DXV Belshire Collection ent, but Shreveport-Bossier is diverse enough to satisfy a range of tastes and preferences. “There’s definitely something for everybody,” she says. “Every house and every neighborhood has its own thing. But there’s something special, something different about Lakeside.”

French Country Homes Explained.

Best-known for their luxurious, yet effortless stylings, natural stone facades, and chic, rustic interiors, French country homes—like this one featured here—have inspired homebuilders and decorators for centuries, and continue to inspire the modern farmhouse and shabby chic interior decorating trends that are extremely popular today. Inspired by the French countryside—specifically, Provence, France—French country homes are more subdued, lived-in, and subtle than the super luxurious, ornate interiors and exteriors typically associated with French architecture. Defined by natural finishes, simple, neutral color palettes, and some serious inspiration from their natural surroundings, French country homes stray from the gilding and molding found in luxurious Parisian homes.

coburns.com

For Sale: 195 Waters Edge.

As important as a home’s assets are on the inside—high ceilings, spacious kitchens—one could argue that the outside matters just as much for this French-style inspired home. That’s what makes 195 Waters Edge so unique. The entry—the one feature that can simultaneously welcome guests warmly and stop neighbors passing by in their tracks—easily invites guests to come on in. “It’s very distinctive and local to the neighborhood,” explains Matranga. Arched windows and detailing give the façade a more youthful appearance by contrasting with the red mix of brick and cream-colored stucco. A three-car attached garage, stretching across the drive, contributes to the newold manor feel. “The home is great for any large family and is perfect for entertaining. And, with this home’s layout, everyone can be under one roof, but still have the ability to maintain a sense of privacy.”

Orientation of the Great Room.

Go big and stay home! Upon entering through the front door, the foyer leads to the heart of the home—a light and airy great room, with a chef’s kitchen and keeping room SBMAG.NET

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2021

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off to the side that anchors the home. The great room is the central gathering spot and is ideal for entertaining. Among its many virtues, it instantly makes the home feel larger than it actually is. It is comfortable enough for a small number of people and big enough for large gatherings of family and friends. On one side of the great room is a large, gas-burning feature fireplace, flanked by built-in display shelving, which lend historical formality.

AFTER

“It’s a beautiful room that gets a lot of light,” Matranga says. “The design doesn’t allow for things to get heavy, stodgy, or old-fashioned. With the tall ceilings and big openings—it the best way to keep everything light.” Adjacent to the great room sits the screened porch (because what’s a Southern home without an indoor-outdoor living area?). “The layout allows everyone gathering in the kitchen to just flow naturally outside onto the private terrace. In the summer, it’s in the shade, so by the time everyone gets home, it’s nice and cool back there,” Matranga claims.

Keeping Room & Chef’s Kitchen.

Radiating off the great room is the chef’s kitchen and keeping room. Keeping, what? It’s basically a room located adjacent to the kitchen, where family and friends can relax and keep the cook company. Genius. “The kitchen and keeping room provide great elements that make them

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usable but still beautiful. There is a lot of walkable space, so you don’t feel stuck while cooking or entertaining,” says Matranga. “Anyone who loves to cook and entertain will love this dual space.” To best connect the kitchen to the adjoining keeping room, a custom, rectangular island with bar-top seating eases the transition. The kitchen features custom pine cabinets and Uba Tuba Granite countertops. The keeping room includes a seating area with a fireplace—the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine on a chilly evening. A wet bar connects the kitchen to an adjacent dining room. “You’ve heard the old adage that the kitchen is the heart of the home. And this keeping room gives you a place to comfortably seat your family and close friends while you prep a meal, cook, or clean,” Matranga adds. “It’s actually wonderful to be conversing with guests and taking in the setting while you cook.” This room is especially useful for people who don’t like open floor plans, because it offers a space near the kitchen without having every room being within reach of the smells that come out of this space. Seriously, who wouldn’t love to lounge and cook here?

Placing the staircase next to the garage entrance gives second-floor dwellers more independence—they can come in the home and hop up to their bedrooms without going into the first floor’s main living area. Needless this home won’t ever lack for space for any size family.

$1.7 million in closed production for January $1.5 Million in closed production for February

Master Bedroom and Bath.

The remote master on the main, tucked away off the great room in its own secluded wing, can easily accommodate a king-size bed. “There are shared moments, but everyone also has their own area as needed,” admits Matranga. The master bathroom includes furniture style double vanities, a large walk-in shower, jetted bathtub, separate water closet, and a custom walk-in closet.

Plenty of Rooms Upstairs for the Kids.

With a spacious main floor master, head upstairs for separated spots to retreat. There you’ll find three additional bedrooms, each with its own walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom. Also upstairs, above the garage, is a large media room with a space for a 70” TV.

Your search for a reliable realtor is over. Put your trust in Sarah McCoy. She can help you find the perfect fit!

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Buying or selling? Call me today! 318.518.6447 315 E Texas Street • Bossier City, LA 71111 SBMAG.NET

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Finding the Right Buyer.

This French-style home fits right in with the neighborhood’s European flavor, and is perfect for any potential homebuyer who needs multiple bedrooms and loves to entertain. The new-meets-old home merges modern ameni-

ties (a rock-solid foundation, a semi-open floor plan) with country classics (pine cabinets, crown molding). “Everything in this house is highly usable but still beautiful,” Matranga contends. “You don’t have to sacrifice one for the other.”

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TO P AT TO R N E Y S 2 02 1

special advertising section

TO P AT TO R N E Y S 2021 Every year our readers look forward to reading about the Top Attorneys in our area. And since 2020 (and so far, 2021) has been unusual to say the least we thought – why not try something new. After all, this pandemic has given all of us the opportunity to adapt and embrace “new” ways of doing things. This year, we opened the voting up to our readers to choose our 2021 Top Attorneys. The response was overwhelming. Over 1200 votes were cast on our website. We present these deserving, hard-working people who exhibit excellence in the practice of law in SB Magazines 2021 Top Attorneys. Philip Adams

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I N D E X 2021 ETHAN ARBUCKLE ............................................................... 50-51

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ALAN STEGALL ............................................................................84

LARRION HILLMAN............................................................. 56-57

THAXTON TITLE ..........................................................................85

GIA KOSMITIS ........................................................................58-59

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E T H A N P. A R B U C K L E DIVORCE/CUSTODY • ESTATE PLANNING PERSONAL INJURY

than P. Arbuckle became a lawyer so he could help people. “I always shoot straight with clients,” said Arbuckle, a North Desoto High School graduate who went on to LSUS and then Southern University Law Center. “I keep them updated on their case and fight for them relentlessly.” Helping people runs in his family. His father, Rodney Arbuckle, was Desoto Parish Sheriff for more than 17 years. Arbuckle makes sure he’s always available when needed. “My firm gives clients the feeling of availability,” said Arbuckle, who’s at the helm of a general practice firm that focuses on divorce custody law, probate/succession law, estate planning law, and personal injury law . “I know how frustrating it is when that aspect is missing from a business.” At this point in his career, he can’t imagine doing anything else. “I never know what type of phone call I’m going to receive or who is going to walk through the door,” Arbuckle said. “Each day is a surprise.” He credits his can-do attitude for his early success. “I’m a people person,” Arbuckle said. “I’ve never met someone I couldn’t talk to. This helps me in my daily negotiations with other attorneys and prosecutors to ensure the best outcomes for my clients.” He plans to grow his firm and continue to do what’s best for anybody who seeks his assistance. “I don’t take my clients for granted,” Arbuckle said. “I treat them right – and it’s only a matter of time before that word gets around.” Arbuckle is a member of the Desoto Parish Bar, the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys, and the National District Attorney’s Association. He is also an Assistant District Attorney in the 42nd JDC. He and his wife Aly have two sons: Decker and Lawson. He enjoys spending time with his family whether that be on the couch watching TV, outdoors playing, or sharing a meal around the supper table. 671 HIGHWAY 171, SUITE L STONEWALL, LA 71078 318.775.4141 WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ARBUCKLELEGAL WWW.ARBUCKLELEGAL.COM

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T H E L AW O F F I C E O F Y V E S M . V E R R E T, I I I CRIMINAL DEFENSE PERSONAL INJURY • FAMILY LAW

Louisiana native and veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Yves obtained his B.A. in Criminal Justice from Northeast Louisiana University, and subsequently entered the work force, prior to attending Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he obtained his Juris Doctor. Upon completion of law school, Yves moved his family to Shreveport where he began his career as a law clerk at the First Judicial District Court. Yves maintains a thriving private practice— primarily focused on criminal defense, DUIs/ DWIs, personal injury/motor vehicle accidents and family law—located at 3985 Airline Drive in Bossier City, Louisiana 71111. “Every client matters to me, and I strive each day to communicate the same to clients through my actions, by zealously advocating for their best interest.” In 2018, Yves expanded his practice by opening Sevy Title, LLC, located at 1000 Benton Road, Bossier City, Louisiana, 71111, providing Northwest Louisiana with title insurance and closing services for residential, commercial refinanced properties, as well new construction. Sevy Title, LLC is fully staffed and managed by seasoned escrow officer, Dee Dee Papenhausen. For more information, contact (318) 900SEVY(7389) or visit www.sevytitle.com. Through his life experiences and as a practicing trial lawyer, Yves has become acutely aware of the importance in hiring driven people with experience, who share his passion for helping those in need. “I am incredibly fortunate to have such great support staff. My paralegal, Brittany Tootikian, and legal assistant, Natalie Ballou, without question are a crucial component to my success.” In his spare time, Yves is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys spending time with his wife Bridget, and their 13-year- old son, Ethan. He also gives back to his community through organizations such as March of Dimes and Easter Seals, where he served on the local board of both organizations, as well as the Easter Seals Board of Directors, for the State of Louisiana. For his professional achievements and commitment to the betterment of Shreveport-Bossier City, Yves was nominated and subsequently selected as a member of “ShreveportBossier’s 40 under 40 class of 2012”. He has also been recognized on numerous occasions in SB Magazine’s annual “Top Attorneys” edition.

Yves is a member of the American Bar Association, the Louisiana State Bar Association, the Shreveport Bar Association, the Bossier Bar Association, the Louisiana Association for Justice, the Krewe of Justinian, and is also a member of the Marine Corp Association and the National Rifle Association. 3985 AIRLINE DR BOSSIER CITY, LA, 71111\(318) 742-7474 VERRETLAWFIRM.COM SBMAG.NET

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THE LAW OFFICE OF ALLEN COOPER, L.L.C. 5 5 1 K I N G S H I G H WAY • S H R E V E P O R T, L A 7 1 1 0 4 • ( 3 1 8 ) 8 6 5 - 5 2 9 1

P A M E L A K I N G N E W L E N, C H R I S B R O U S S A R D, A L L E N C O O P E R , C H R I S M I C I O T T O

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T H E L AW O F F I C E O F A L L E N CO O P E R WORKERS COMP • PERSONAL INJURY SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

hen people aren’t in a position to help themselves - that’s when The Law Office of Allen Cooper, LLC steps in to provide the HELP they need.

Allen Cooper of Shreveport, graduated from Caddo Magnet High School in 1984 and later attended LSUS, where he was named the Outstanding Student in his major. After graduating from college with honors, he attended law school at LSU Law Center in Baton Rouge. In law school, Allen received the AmJur Award in Insurance for receiving the highest grade in insurance law. He was also named to the Chancellor’s List. Throughout his 29 years of practicing law, Allen has made it his mission to help people who are injured or disabled. He helps people injured in motor vehicle collisions, people injured due to falls, people injured by falling merchandise, and people injured in on-the-job accidents. He also helps those people that are disabled and seek Social Security Disability benefits. Allen practices primarily in the areas of Workers’ Compensation, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice and Social Security Disability. When not busy at the office, Allen loves spending time with his family. He is married to Kim Leone Campbell Cooper. Together they have five children, Hayley, Zack, Tyler, Chance and Kaylee. They also have an Australian Shepherd named Ace and a Yorkie Poo named Obi. Chris Miciotto has been named one of the top lawyers by SB Magazine in multiple years, practicing in the areas of auto and truck accidents, workers’ compensation (on-the-job injuries), criminal defense, and Social Security Disability. He was born and raised in Shreveport, where he attended high school at Loyola College Prep. Chris received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisiana-Monroe (1993) and his law degree from Oklahoma City University (1997). Chris strongly believes in giving back to the community. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling and has worked closely with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office to provide assistance to those in the legal community suffering with addiction. Chris also serves as a mentor to individuals battling drug, alcohol, gambling, and other addictions. Chris, who lives in Blanchard with his wife Christie, enjoys helping his clients through a difficult time. “Our clients come to us because they need help, whether it’s a car wreck, an on-the-job accident, or other cases,” says Chris. “It’s an honor to represent our clients, many of whom have just suffered through one of the most traumatic experiences of their lives,” added Chris. “It’s a great feeling to receive a hug and a ‘thank you’ from a client after helping them reach a resolution to their case. It makes working all of those long hours and weekends worthwhile.”

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Pamela King Newlen is not your “typical” attorney. Pamela decided to pursue her law degree at the age of 34. Prior to law school, Pamela spent ten years working in the land management and insurance field. She went to law school with the expectation of advancing her career in those fields. However, during Pamela’s time in law school her motives changed. Pamela became passionate about helping those in need and prides herself on working to protect the rights of her clients along with her ability to guide each client through the litigation process. Pamela became a notary public in 2008 and obtained a bachelor’s degree from Louisiana Tech University in 2012, where her focus was on business administration. Pamela also holds an individual producer insurance license for life, health, accident and title. Pamela conducted her post-graduate studies at Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, during which time she held the position of vice-president of the Tax Law Society. She also served as the law center’s site coordinator for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program and volunteered at the Baton Rouge Family Court Self Help Resource Center. Pamela graduated with her juris doctorate in 2017 and was admitted to the Louisiana bar in 2018. Pamela then began a solo practice where her primary focus was on family law. While in solo practice, she also worked as a contract attorney for the Shreveport Bar Foundation’s Legal Representation for Victims of Domestic Violence, where she represented victims seeking protective orders. Pamela left solo practice and joined The Law Office of Allen Cooper, LLC in 2019. Pamela lives in Haughton with her husband, Josh, and their children, Kayleen, Morgan and Raegan. When Pamela is not working to protect the rights of her clients, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Chris Broussard was born in Orange, Texas in 1971, graduated from West Orange-Stark High School near the top of his class in 1989, received his B.A. in Political Science and a B.S. in Communication from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas in 1995. He received a Full Dean’s Scholarship to the University of Houston Law Center and graduated with a Doctorate in Jurisprudence in 1998. He was admitted to the Texas Bar that same year and practiced in Texas until moving to Shreveport in September of 2000. He was admitted to the Louisiana Bar in April 2001 and went into solo practice in 2002. He has extensive experience in the areas of personal injury litigation, family law, and criminal law. In 2019, Chris left solo practice and joined the Law Office of Allen Cooper to continue fighting for the legal rights of the injured and disabled. He is married to Lori Broussard and has two children, Bay Berger and Jordon Davisson. Raised on union wages and a lifelong proponent of organized labor, Chris proudly battles for justice on behalf of working people. 551 KINGS HIGHWAY • SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 318.865.5291 WWW.ALLENCOOPERLAW.COM SBMAG.NET

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GE N A R O IS NOT YOUR COLOR .

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L AW O F F I C E O F L ARRION L . HILLMAN

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

lthough one might have assumptions from televised legal dramas, running a law practice completely devoted to criminal defense requires the ability to pivot; the ability to change as society changes. In the past year we have been faced with the reality of how society’s social expectations and social norms can change in the blink of an eye. The events that have shaped our nation in the past year from Covid-19, racial unrest, protests, and the aftermath of reformation, to the political climate and everything that includes, have all played major roles in the judicial system right here in Caddo and Bossier parishes. It is undeniable that people are experiencing an emotional, physical, and economical roller coaster. Unfortunately, the calamities packed with Covid-19 caused many to resort to unlawful acts, for some out of character, in order to survive an abnormal environment. People are still combating the lingering trauma. Without the proper treatment or access to resources, the stressors of life rob people from living their best life because they choose to compound and release those emotions in a socially inappropriate way. When this occurs, it can lead to arrests for things like driving while intoxicated, assault and battery, or even more serious, felonies. Our goal is to make sure that as our clients emerge from these trying times, the individuals we represent can truly put these matters behind them. This process takes many different forms. In the truly bleak situations, we negotiate the best deals possible, in many situations we can have charges reduced or dismissed. In the event we cannot reach a resolution we set the matters for trial. The ultimate goal, if legally possible, is to have everything expunged so our clients can truly have an opportunity for a fresh start. The greatest change that I envision is that people appear more conscious of their rights now than at any other point in my career. When people call my office, they can discuss the actions they have taken, and why, and can justify their conduct. People are not just receiving their lawful right to representation, but they are receiving essential tools to advocate their case. They can articulate their concerns and avoid abuse from any source. This awareness is necessary both for individuals being accused as well as law enforcement. While this dialog is just truly beginning in earnest, it has already started shaping the way criminal matters are handled locally. The greatest part of working in criminal defense is the ability to protect every clients’ Constitutional Rights. Having

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spent several years prosecuting in the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office, I have a unique understanding of every aspect of criminal defense. As an Assistant District Attorney, I have led training and facilitated legal education at the Police Academy. Now, as a defense attorney, I am in a position to make sure those boundaries are not violated. This has been a tumultuous year to say the least. However, we have not neglected our mission in serving our clients. Yes, we too have had to maneuver through challenges such as extended court delays caused by the pandemic, but we have continued to protect clients on a range of charges, from homicide and rape allegations to driving while intoxicated and disturbing the peace. Unprecedented times did not cause individuals and families from needing to retain our services. Even in this moment, as we prepare to send this to press, we are working out of our homes from another week of court closures, a city crippled by inclement weather, and another week of people not working, as we experience the greatest snowstorm this city has ever seen. Many are without power, water, and basic services. This will, inevitably, repeat a cycle of bad decisions, decisions often necessary for survival. As we dig ourselves out of this situation, and any situation that arises in the future, we will be here to help those that feel hopeless in their regrettable circumstances. Advocating for our clients’ rights will always be the case. The representation a client receives from my law office does not end with a judicial ruling. We are here to help beyond that final sentence or acquittal. Parents and loved ones often need assistance connecting with the appropriate services for both their ability to deal with addictions of their loved ones and to master their roles in helping those closest to them. Our office will help connect our clients with additional services, like job assistance programs, family counseling, mental health services and resources for those dealing with substance or alcohol abuse. These valuable services are especially important as individuals reintegrate into society. Professionally, our proudest accomplishment is our clients that often stay in touch long after litigation is over. Receiving progress reports of major and even minor successes make all the hard work worth the fight! 1408 AIRLINE DR, BOSSIER CITY, LA 71112 (318) 549-9180 WWW.LARRIONHILLMAN.COM/

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L AW O F F I C E O F G I A KO S M I T I S

NURSING HOME NEGLECT

ia Kosmitis has represented victims of nursing home neglect, nursing home abuse and medical malpractice for over 30 years. Kosmitis and her legal team have handled more successful claims against long term care corporations than any other law firm in Louisiana. We have a team of local doctors, nurses, therapists and other health care providers that are dedicated to improving patient care and standing up for victims of abuse and neglect.

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to read and utilize my critical thinking. Through doing these things, I get to have an influence on health care in this community and hopefully improve both care and the patients understanding.” Avery E. Bond has joined the team as a recent licensed attorney in 2019. Avery has a passion for the medico-legal aspects of the cases and acting as an advocate for victims of medical malpractice. Avery is a graduate of C.E.Byrd in 2013, a LSUS graduate with a B.S. in Cellular & Molecular Biology in 2016 and a LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center graduate where she obtained her Juris Doctorate and diploma in Comparative Law in 2019. Avery is a valuable asset to the Kosmitis law office.

“Our law office is dedicated to improving health care in our community and throughout Louisiana,” said Kosmitis, a Shreveport native who graduated from C.E. Byrd High School and went on to LSU and LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center. “Corporations that own nursing homes are making millions of dollars in profits while they are not providing basic care and failing to provide sufficient numbers of staff to meet the needs of their patients. We not only work to help victims and their families to fully recover,” Kosmitis said. “But we work to protect their rights and seek justice against corporations that seek to place profits over people.” “Louisiana ranks the worst in nursing home care in the United States because there is little enforcement against these ill practices,” she adds. Kosmitis Law Office has battled against corporate lawyers all over the country and obtained judgement and settlements for the nursing homes’ abuse and neglect for all her clients. “I have a team that doesn’t give up,” Kosmitis said. Kosmitis hired Shelly Hebert RN as part of her team back in 1999. Hebert has passion, knowledge and experience making her an integral part of the office. Hebert earned a Bachelor’s of Science in nursing from Northwestern State University and a Master’s of Science in health care services management from Loyola University of New Orleans. She has been a registered nurse for 26 years and has national certifications in rehabilitation nursing and legal nurse consulting, and is also a fully trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) forensic nurse. Having a nurse on staff in their law office allows them to serve their clients better and offers more reward for clients. They feel it is important that only valid claims be brought into the courtroom. “I love discerning the truth and helping others,” said Hebert. “I get to be an advocate of the truth. I love that serving as a consultant allows me

AVERY E. BOND Kosmitis, Hebert, Bond and the staff of the Law Office of Gia Kosmitis APLC are dedicated to serving their clients and are ready to help anyone who may have experienced neglect or abuse. “Our clients are not just a name or another case. Our clients become part of our mission to help improve health care in Louisiana.” 3316 LINE AVE. • SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 318.865.9800 WWW.GIAKOSMITIS.COM SBMAG.NET

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K YLE ROBINSON

“M

PERSONAL INJURY

ost of our clients come from previous client referrals, and we are very proud of that,” said Kyle M. Robinson. As owner of a private injury practice, Robinson has established a reputation as being one of the area’s premier personal injury attorneys. His motivation, work ethic, and creativity have allowed his personal injury practice to expand to cases throughout the entire state of Louisiana. Robinson is a Northwest Louisiana native, growing up Springhill, LA and now residing in Bossier City. He is forever a Lumberjack, having graduated from Springhill High School in 1998. Robinson is also a proud alumnus of LSU in Baton Rouge where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing in 2002. In 2005, he received a Juris Doctorate from Mississippi College School of Law in Jackson, MS. In 2006, Robinson started his legal career as in-house counsel for a commercial insurance company. There, he gained invaluable exposure and insight into the insurance industry, specifically the day-to-day operations of the claims handling process. “I was exposed to every aspect of the business, from underwriting to complex injury litigation,” Robinson said. “When an attorney is able to understand why an opposing party is taking a certain position on an issue, there is a better chance of finding a creative way to resolve that issue.” Robinson’s experience has provided the unique skills and perspective he has employed daily since he moved into private personal injury practice in 2007. While the practice of law is a great honor for Kyle, his greatest joy is spending time hunting, fishing, and golfing with his sons Jett, 13, and Cruz, 10. His children have given him a new perspective on how the family dynamic affects those seriously injured by the carelessness, and often recklessness, of others. “It breaks my heart when I hear stories from my clients about how catastrophic injuries have affected their interaction with family members and specifically, their children,” Kyle said. “I try my best to make it my personal mission to help mend those relationships through every recovery allowed by law.” 509 MILAM ST., STE. 200 SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.747.0060 WWW.KYLEMROBINSON.COM SBMAG.NET

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LO C A L A N D N AT I O N A L DISTINGUISHED AT TO R N E Y A STRONG WOM AN IN PURSUIT OF WINNING. S COT T ’ S M OT TO F O R H ER P ER S O N A L INJURY CASES IS “M A K E ‘ E M PAY.” S COT T L I V E S BY T H E SCRIPTURE “I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS M E .” PHILIPPIANS 4:13 62

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JACQ U EL I N E A . S COT T PERSONAL INJURY • CAR WRECKS • WRONGFUL DEATH WORK RELATED INJURIES • SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT CRIMINAL LAW • 18 WHEELER/BIG RIG ACCIDENTS MEDICAL MALPRACTICE • PRODUCT LIABILITY MUNICIPAL BONDS • LICENSED MEDIATOR

f you are looking for a trusted attorney with exceptional legal expertise, reasonable fees, remarkable leadership, and compassion, then look no further than Attorney Jacqueline Scott.

With a celebrated legal career spanning three decades, attorney and television judge Jacqueline Scott, is one of the most recognizable and successful attorneys in Shreveport-Bossier City. For the past 18 years, Scott has been named top lawyer in Shreveport-Bossier City by SB Magazine – a distinction voted on by her peers. The honor is a testament to Scott’s longevity as an attorney, community activist, philanthropist and ad hoc judge on the Shreveport City Court bench. Scott has earned a reputation as a problem-solver. Her motto is “You got a problem? I can create a solution. Experience matters, and reasonable fees are important to her clients.” With more than 30,000 legal cases under her belt, Scott delivers results, putting her clients’ needs first above her own financial gain. Unlike out-of-town attorneys, Scott can often be found in the hallowed halls of courthouses around North Louisiana, successfully handling cases on behalf of her clients. She has worked with notable legal eagles, such as nationally renowned, billionaire attorney, Willie Gary from Stuart, Florida.

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earned countless awards over her career including the 2020 Lawyers of Distinction award for excellence in personal injury law. Additionally, Scott exhibits a genuine concern for the community and continues to give back. During the pandemic, Scott fed 500 first responders, firemen, and the postal workers. Her care for the community does not stop there as she donated $10,000.00 to Booker T. Washington in support of remote learning, $5,000.00 to Huntington High School’s legal program, and was instrumental in raising $100,000.00 so that the Shreveport Police Department could get body cameras. Scott is admitted to practice law before the U.S. Federal Court, Western District of Louisiana, the Louisiana Supreme Court, Louisiana Courts of Appeals and Louisiana Municipal Courts. She is also registered to handle municipal bonds, overseeing billions of dollars in municipal financing. Scott is a member of many professional organizations including the Best Attorneys of America. SHREVEPORT, BOSSIER AND MONROE 318.746.5997 OR 800.660.5448 WWW.JACQUELINESCOTTLAW.COM WWW.MAKEEMPAY.COM

Zoom and virtual meetings available.

Never one to rest on her laurels, Scott continues to reinvent herself. She plays Justice Jacque on the reality show, Cajun Court TV, her locally produced TV mediation reality show. The show is currently being prepared to go into syndication. Scott also has served as a legal analyst on the Cemetery Stalker episode of Fatal Attraction, TV One’s nationally syndicated documentary series, featuring true crime stories of obsession and deadly romance. Scott attributes her success to her strong belief in God, her appreciated church family, and her mother, Ada Scott, who never finished school but instilled in her children strong work ethics and integrity. Ada Scott often quoted sayings such as “The early bird gets the worm”, “Business comes before pleasure”, and “Where there is a will there is a way”. These principles have guided Attorney Scott’s life as well as her practice of law. Scott believes her greatest role is being a mother to her only daughter, Lawryn Scott, who is a senior at Louisiana State University and plans to attend law school. As a tribute to her lifetime of good works, Scott has SBMAG.NET

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T H E L AW O F F I C E O F C H R I S TO P H E R M . S TA H L PERSONAL INJURY • CRIMINAL DEFENSE FAMILY LAW • WILLS AND ESTATES

hristopher M. Stahl knows it’s next to impossible to navigate the legal system alone. That’s why he’s there to step in and make the process less intimidating and stressful for his clients. “It’s important to have an attorney who returns phone calls, e-mails, and consistently communicates with clients,” Stahl said. “I work hard to develop a good rapport with clients to make sure they are advised of every possible outcome, and to keep the client informed as the case unfolds.” Stahl was born in Shreveport and raised in Minden, Louisiana. He attended Cedar Creek High School in Ruston, Louisiana, and obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration from Millsaps College in 2008. In 2012, after graduating from Loyola New Orleans College of Law, he was admitted to the practice of law. He moved back to Minden to launch a solo practice before migrating to Bossier City, where his office has been located since 2015. Stahl practices in a variety of fields, but focuses his practice on personal injury, criminal defense, family law, and wills and estates. He actively works throughout Caddo, Bossier, Webster, DeSoto, Bienville, and Lincoln Parish. He works almost exclusively through word of mouth referrals, and has received glowing reviews from his clients for his accessibility, professionalism, and down-to-earth character. Stahl is married to Allie Aiello-Stahl, and resides in Bossier City with their two-year old daughter, Elizabeth. He is a member of the Louisiana Bar Association, Shreveport Bar Association, Bossier Bar Association, and Webster Bar Association. He is also a member of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce, the Krewe of Justinian, and attends Asbury Methodist Church. In 2017, Chris started the Kay Stahl Foundation in honor of his late mother. The organization provides monetary assistance to teachers for classroom essentials. Stahl enjoys a thriving practice, and treats his clients’ matters as his own. Whether it be a delicate custody matter, or an intricate succession issue, he and his dependable staff remain dedicated to the clients’ needs and objectives. 3985 AIRLINE DRIVE • BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 318.746.5610 WWW.CMSTAHLLAW.COM

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A ARON R. WILSON AT TO R N E Y AT L AW

REAL ESTATE, WILLS & ESTATES

aron R. Wilson believes that everyone deserves a fair shake. He prides himself on being accessible and approachable by all those that seek advice; whether it’s someone he has never met, or a longtime client. Aaron was born and raised in the Shreveport/Bossier City area. He attended both Captain Shreve High School and Airline High School, and obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Louisiana State University in Shreveport. In 2016, after graduating from Southern University Law Center, he was admitted to the practice of law. After completing Law School, Aaron joined his father and Attorney of 36 years, Donald L. Wilson, with whom he shared a practice with until 2020. Aaron’s practice includes several areas of the law, but his primary focus is Real Estate, including transactions, successions and probate, Landlord/Tenant matters, and Property taxes. He currently represents clients from all walks of life in several Parishes, including Caddo, Bossier, DeSoto, Natchitoches, and Rapides. Aaron also serves the public as a Public Defender in Bossier Parish. Aaron is also the Owner of Landowners Abstract & Title, Corp. Through it, he provides Title Insurance and Closing Services and assists those looking to buy, sell, or refinance a home and everything in-between. Aaron is engaged to Lacie G. Kempff and resides in Caddo Parish. He is a member of the Louisiana Bar Association, Shreveport Bar Association, Bossier Bar Association, and is an active member of several Committees for the Louisiana State Bar Association. 707 BENTON ROAD, SUITE 125 BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA 71111 (318)752-4106 WWW.WILSONAPLC.COM SBMAG.NET

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J O S H UA K . W I L L I A M S AT TO R N E Y AT L AW, L LC

PERSONAL INJURY AND CRIMINAL LAW

oshua K. Williams was born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana. He is a 2003 graduate of Capt. Shreve High School. In 2009, Williams received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from University of New Orleans. He went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from Southern University Law Center in 2013. During his time at Southern University, Williams served as 3L Class Representative and the director of corporate relations for the Southern Region of the Black Law Students Association. Williams was also a junior staff writer for the Louisiana Public Defender. Williams was hired straight out of law school in 2014 by the late Caddo district attorney Charles Scott as a misdemeanor assistant district attorney in Judge Katherine Dorroh’s court. He spent five years fighting for victims and conducted over twenty jury trials as First Chair – resulting in a 96 percent conviction rate. Williams has presented at numerous continuing law enforcement training for the Shreveport Police Department and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office.

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During his time at the DA’s Office, Joshua also maintained a part-time private practice where he primarily assisted clients in personal injury matters. In December 2019, Williams transitioned into private practice full-time. He now fights for injured parties as well as those charged with crimes across Louisiana. Williams is an active member of the Louisiana State Bar Association. He is a graduate of the 2016-17 LSBA Leadership Class, and since that time has served as Eighth District Representative of the LSBA Young Lawyers Division. He enjoys giving back to his community through several organizations, including Community Renewal International. He also supports Shreveport Parks and Recreation athletic and youth programs. Williams and his wife, Sam, are the proud parents of two girls, Sophia and Julia. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity and Zion Baptist Church. 9284 LINWOOD AVE SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 P. 318-562-1140 • F. 318-562-1141 WWW.JOSHUAKWILLIAMS.COM

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JAC K B A I L E Y L AW CO R P O R AT I O N 50+ YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE REPRESENTING NORTH LOUISIANA CLIENTS

he Jack Bailey Law Corporation, better known as THE JACK PACK, is ready to take on the stresses of your law matters, so you can focus on just getting better! Jack Bailey Law Corporation knows the law and knows our clients. We fight for each client to get the best possible results. THE JACK PACK represents clients in Shreveport-Bossier City and the surrounding rural communities including Arcadia, Homer, Coushatta, Mansfield, Minden, Gibsland, Haynesville, Springhill and Oil City. For more than three decades, the Jack Bailey Law Corporation has proudly represented injured people and their families for: • • • • • •

Serious Injury and Death Car, Motorcycle, Truck and 18-Wheeler Wrecks On-the-job Workers Compensation Injury Workers Compensation & Personal Injury Combination Cases Medical Malpractice Social Security Disability

THE JACK PACK is made up of a stellar team of trial attorneys. Jack M. Bailey, Jr., practicing attorney since 1977, holds an impressive resume of successful case settlements, including the

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jury verdict against Phillip Morris USA, Brown & Williamson, Lorrillard, R.J. Reynolds and the Tobacco Institute in Scott, et al v. The American Tobacco Company, et al where Jack was a Trial Team Captain. Jack is a Workers Compensation & Personal Injury Specialist, inducted as a Fellow to the ABA’s College of Workers’ Compensation Lawyers, and voted by local peers in SB Magazine Annual “Best Lawyer” edition, top attorneys in Shreveport-Bossier year after year. Mary Lou Bylsma has been with the Jack Bailey Law Corporation for over 20 years and specializes in Workers Compensation, proudly representing each and every client with a strong winning record. Jack M. Bailey, III, joined the practice in 2016. Jake, as he is known to family and friends, earned his law degree from Loyola University New Orleans - College of Law and was admitted to the Louisiana Bar in October 2016, and is now leading the practice into becoming one of the most competitive team of attorneys in the area. Valerie DeLatte, the newest attorney to THE JACK PACK, earned her law degree from Loyola University New Orleans - College of Law and is the Immediate Past President of the Shreveport Bar Association – Young Lawyers’ Section. These professionals and a staff of experienced paralegals, along with the office mascot, Tater; make up THE JACK PACK – the definition of quality legal representation and personal service. Each case represents an opportunity to be the voice for victims of injury and a path to justice. THE JACK PACK attorneys are not only the faces you see in the marketing campaigns, but also the very team of attorneys who work every case with personal attention, fierce advocation and solid results. JACK BAILEY LAW CORPORATION 2790 FAIRFIELD AVE, SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 PHONE: (318) 222-5200 WWW.JACKBAILEYLAW.COM

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JOHN HARRIS E S TAT E P L A N N I N G F O R LO U I S I A N A ESTATE PLANNING • SUCCESSIONS INTERDICTIONS

“E

state Planning for Louisiana was founded on the principles of client focused service and the commitment to strive to be the finest Estate Planning and Succession law practice in our area,” said John Harris, the firms founding attorney. “So many law practices are focused primarily on other practice areas that we realized there was an opportunity for this firm to be focused on just this niche market – and provide clients with top caliber legal services in doing so.” In addition to the intricacies associated with Estate Planning, such as tax ramifications and the complexities of interpersonal family relationships, a successful Estate Planning and Succession practice must be able to build a supportive rapport with each client and family member to ensure a successful result. John Harris, a Shreveport native, founded the firm whose sole focus is Estate Planning, Successions, and Interdictions. The large percentage of cases he handles include complicated, large estate plans; contested, litigated successions; and small, simple estate settlements that are very common in our area of the state. “The backbone of our firm is education. Clients need their attorney to break down a complicated matter into straightforward, easy to follow segments so they can decide whether they need a Last Will and Testament, Revocable Living Trust, or Irrevocable Trust as the correct Estate Plan to meet their individualized needs and concerns,” said Harris. When it comes to handling a deceased family members estate settlement, Harris stated, “Clients come to me when making stressful decisions or confronting the hurdles of handling the home or assets after the death of a loved one. Our firm helps clients navigate these difficult waters with compassion and professionalism.” Through years of hard work, the firm has built relationships with many other attorneys, Realtors, financial advisors, bankers, CPA’s, and other professionals who regularly seek out John Harris and his practice to assist their clients. Harris confirmed that he knew, “how much trust and professionalism is expected of me whenever a professional refers one of their clients to my firm. We always seek to partner with other professionals who want to work together to achieve the best result, through mutual support, for their clients.” Harris has also become a much sought after lecturer for other attorneys, CPA’s, colleges, and other local organizations. The firm’s down-to-earth approach has worked wonders in

assisting clients through a variety of areas many people try to avoid, including, the complicated considerations of step-family planning, preservation of hard-earned assets from the devastating costs of nursing homes, the interdiction process necessary when a parent has lost the ability to care for themselves, and the convoluted area of Estate Tax planning for those individuals with large estates. “We know the most common reaction in our world today to these types of matters is procrastination. When we can help clients transition these challenging areas into something they know is manageable, we have done our job well,” stated Harris. John Harris is married to Heather Harris and together they have five children: Evan, Molly, Ethan, Johanna, and Evangeline. John is a member of Broadmoor Baptist Church and is involved with several local nonprofits. 7591 FERN AVE #1303, SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 (318) 408-1400 WWW.ESTATEPLANNINGFORLA.COM SBMAG.NET

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CRIMINAL LAW • FAMILY LAW • BANKRUPTCY LAW • PERSONAL INJURY LAW NURSING HOME NEGLIGENCE LAW • MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAW • WILLS AND SUCCESSIONS

E VA N S & F R A N K L I N EXPERIENCE MATTERS

50+ YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE REPRESENTING NORTH LOUISIANA CLIENTS

t Evans & Franklin, John W. Evans, Jr. and W. Jarred Franklin offer a unique combination of personal experience, customer service and the art of negotiation in order to achieve a successful outcome for their clients. There can be many legal issues for which you need legal representation. Below are some of the many areas of practice in which we can aggressively advocate and compassionately assist: • • • •

Criminal Law Family Law Bankruptcy Law Personal Injury Law

• • •

Nursing Home Negligence Law Medical Malpractice Law Wills and Successions

“We are committed to serving our clients by providing solid legal counsel based on our knowledge and experience, while paying close attention to every detail,” said Evans, a graduate from both LSUS and Southern University Law Center. Born and raised in Bossier City, Evans is a descendant from the family of the city’s patriarch, Pierre Evariste Jean-Baptiste

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Bossier. His desire to help people and his tendency to never back down allow him to be successful when dealing with personal injury, criminal, family law and bankruptcy cases. He’s married to Geneva Evans and they have 3 wonderful children, Clare, Sarah and Will. Franklin, a Shreveport native, received his law degree from Mississippi College School of Law. His private practice focuses primarily on criminal defense, personal injury, medical malpractice, nursing home negligence, family law, successions and general civil litigation. “We know the law, we know how to argue the law, we think outside the box and we know how to get favorable results,” said Franklin. Franklin currently serves as a board member of the Independence Bowl and Progressive Elder Care Services. He is a member of the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, the Bossier Chamber of Commerce, and East Ridge Country Club. He’s married to Kathy French and he has a son, Will, who attends LSU Baton Rouge, and a daughter, Lillie, who attends the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville. YOU DON’T HAVE TO FACE A LEGAL CHALLENGE ALONE – CALL US TODAY! 3001 OLD MINDEN ROAD • BOSSIER CITY, LA 71112 318.746.7467 WWW.EVANSFRANKLIN.COM

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K AT H ER I N E E . G I L M ER & SARAH R. GIGLIO

CRIMINAL DEFENSE • PERSONAL INJURY riminal defense and personal injury attorneys Katherine E. Gilmer and Sarah R. Giglio strive to positively impact the lives of their clients.

“I consider myself an outspoken advocate for my clients and their best interests,” said Gilmer, who received her law degree from LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center but has always had a fascination with the legal system. “I want to help people who are suffering, whether as a result of an accident or criminal arrest.” Neither can imagine a career in any other field.

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“I love it when clients tell me I’ve had a lasting positive impact on their lives,” said Giglio, a Texas native who graduated from SMU’s Dedman School of Law. “Sometimes I’ll call and check on former clients who, at one time, had drug or alcohol problems, and when they tell me how successful their lives have become, it makes my day.” Both Gilmer and Giglio believe their compassion sets them apart from other area firms, and they have big plans for the future. “We want to stand as a shield between our clients and the legal system. Our desire is to identify and solve any underlying issues that caused them to come into contact with it in the first place,” said Giglio. “Clients know they can trust us.” 3541 YOUREE DRIVE • SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 318.459.9111 WWW.GILMERGIGLIO.COM SBMAG.NET

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WHITLE Y R. G R AV E S

DWI / DUI

hitley R. Graves has earned the reputation of being a prepared, aggressive and effective trial lawyer in the Shreveport-Bossier City area and in many other areas in and out of Louisiana. He restricts his practice solely to DWI/DUI cases and his dedication to obtaining the best possible resolutions for people accused of DWI/DUI is recognized by judges and prosecuting attorneys as well as law enforcement personnel. His 46 year career in the justice system started with the Louisiana State Police which included patrol duties, as an original member of the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force in Shreveport, and as a Detective. While working in law enforcement, Whitley earned degrees in Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice from LSU Shreveport and obtained certificates in the fields of Field Sobriety Tests for intoxicated drivers and as an evidence technician for crime labs. After retiring from law enforcement, Whitley graduated from the LSU Law Center before joining the Bossier-Webster District Attorney’s Office where he retired as chief prosecutor. Now in private practice he relies on his prior experiences to understand police tactics and prosecutors’ techniques. Graves has tried more than 100 jury trials and literally thousands of bench trials. He methodically sifts through the innocuous and pinpoints the specific legal issues that need to be addressed. He has presented more than 60 matters before appellate courts including the Louisiana Supreme Court. He is licensed to practice in all Louisiana Courts along with the Federal Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States Supreme Court. Graves is a member of the Louisiana State Bar, a three time Past Master of Temple Lodge Masons F&AM, Past Director of the Royal Order of Jesters, a Knight Commander in the Court of Honour for the Scottish Rite and serves as an Ambassador and Master of Ceremonies for the El Karubah Shrine. 4705 PALMETTO ROAD BENTON, LA • 318.965.5001 WWW.WHITGRAVES.COM

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RICHARD E. GRIFFITH DIVORCE • CHILD CUSTODY • ADOPTIONS SPOUSAL SUPPORT

hreveport native Richard E. Griffith practices in all areas of family law including adoption, child custody, community property, divorce, and support issues. He has been in private practice for more than 20 years and prides himself on assisting clients through highly emotional issues involved in custody and divorce proceedings. “You want a lawyer you can trust to give you the whole picture and promote your best interest both inside and out of the courtroom” said Griffith who earned his law degree in 2000 from LSU. Griffith especially loves working on adoptions. Having been adopted at birth by two wonderful parents, he feels a personal connection with his adoption clients. There

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is nothing more rewarding than joining families together in a bond of love. It is one of the few times everyone leaves the courtroom happy.” Griffith is a member of the American Bar Association, Louisiana Bar Association, and Shreveport Bar Association. He has been recognized by SB Magazine as one of Shreveport Bossier’s Top Lawyers for the past 16 years. The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys recognized him as one of the Top Law Firms in Louisiana 2017-2021. He was recognized in the Three Best Rated Divorce Lawyers for 2019 – 2021. He serves on the Troop Committee for the Shreveport Elks sponsored Boy Scout Troop 5 and is an Eagle Scout. He is a member of Broadmoor Baptist Church. 839 KINGS HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 • SHREVEPORT, LA 318.222.0337 WWW.SHREVEPORTDIVORCE.COM SBMAG.NET

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In practice since 1998. Licensed in: • Louisiana State Court Licensed in Federal Courts of: • Western District of Louisiana • Western District of Arkansas • Eastern District of Texas

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While attending law school, Alonzo was a member of the Black Law Students Association, served as Vice President of the Sports and Entertainment Law Association, and was 3L Class President. After completing law school, Alonzo had the honor of being an associate at Washington and Wells Law Firm where he began practicing several areas of law, but primarily focusing on Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, and Family Law. Alonzo also spent time as an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Shreveport. He served as legal counsel for Shreveport Police and Fire Departments, as well as Shreveport Parks and Recreation. In addition to his private practice, he is currently employed as a contract attorney with the Caddo Parish Public Defender’s Office. Alonzo has a passion for helping others and provides compassionate, professional, and effective legal representation. His primary focus is helping people who do not have a voice of their own and making a difference in the lives of those who need help the most. Jackson Jr. now maintains a thriving, up and coming practice that is focused on personal injury/motor vehicle accidents, family law, and criminal defense. His office is located at 2210 Line Ave. Suite 103, Shreveport, Louisiana 71104, where “Every client is treated like a close family member; I convey this to my clients by working diligently to handle matters efficiently and maintaining a steady line of communication.” “My office manager, Anita Jackson, helps with client relations and the day-to-day business of the firm to make it possible for me focus on the needs of the client and the tasks at hand.”

A LO N ZO P. JAC K S O N J R .

CRIMINAL DEFENSE. PERSONAL INJURY. FAMILY LAW

lonzo was born and raised in Shreveport, LA. He is a lifelong member of Lane Chapel CME. Alonzo attended and graduated from Huntington High School in 2005 and went on to further his education at the University of Louisiana at Monroe where he received his Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Sociology in 2009. Alonzo pursued his legal studies at Southern University Law Center in 2014. He also received his Masters in Public Administration at Southern University Nelson Mandela School of Public Policy in 2015.

Alonzo is a member of the Huntington High School Alumni Association and Football Booster Club. Alonzo is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. and an active board member on the scout reach committee for the Norwela Council of Boy Scouts of America. In his spare time, Jackson Jr. enjoys attending sporting events, traveling, and indulging in a good game of dominoes. Alonzo plans to continue to grow his firm and continue to fight for the justice that his clients deserve. Alonzo prides himself in working hard and building great relationships with other Attorneys and other professionals who seek out Alonzo P. Jackson Jr. and his practice to assist their clients. He credits his recent professional success to his loving parents; The late Alonzo P. Jackson Sr., Anita Jackson, and his older sister Chelsa Jackson. BROWN O’NEAL BUILDING, 2210 LINE AVE #103, SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 • (318) 779-1587 WWW.JACKSONJRLAW.COM

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PATRICK JACK SON AUTO & TRUCKING ACCIDENTS GOVERNMENTAL LITIGATION MEDICAL MALPRACTICE NURSING HOME NEGLIGENCE PERSONAL INJURY IMMUNIZATION INJURY PHARMACEUTICAL NEGLIGENCE QUI TAM

atrick Jackson is the parish attorney for Bossier and Webster Parishes and has been for over 20 years. He also practices extensively in personal injury, nursing home negligence, medical malpractice, qui tam (Medicare/Medicaid or other fraud involving federal money) and auto and trucking accidents in Louisiana and Texas. “My approach to the practice of law is trying to ensure every day that I am accessible to my clients and that I give my clients the same advice I would give my family or friends,” he said. “The parish work is what I love to do most. It is so exciting to be able to work with a group of elected and appointed community leaders that try every day to do something good for Louisiana. Many times, I see those leaders worn down by detractors and still persevere to do the right thing. It is an honor to work in this capacity.” In addition to his many duties as P arish A ttorney, Jackson is a member of the Louisiana Bar Association, Texas State Bar Association and and admitted to all federal courts in Louisiana and Texas . Jackson is also admitted to the United States Court of Claims and the United States Supreme Court. “I went into law to help people,” he said. “My father’s best friend was a lawyer, and I saw how people turned to him for help at their most desperate hour. He always seemed to make such a difference in those people’s lives around him. It was always something I admired as a child, and frankly, I wanted to be just like him.” Jackson graduated from Parkway High School and attended Louisiana Tech University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then went to the Baylor University School of Law in Waco, Texas, where he earned his law degree. Jackson is currently seeking an L.L.M in Litigation Management at Baylor. Outside his legal practice, Jackson is the Chief Legal Administrator for the Louisiana Army National Guard, having been in active service since 1988. Jackson just completed his 34th year of service to the United States Army - Louisiana Army National Guard. Jackson is married to Tonya Jackson and has three children: Lee, Luke, Ellie Kate. 4442 VIKING DRIVE, STE 100 BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 318.752.3335

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TODD M. JOHNSON, LLC PERSONAL INJURY, WORKER’S COMPENSATION, SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY AND VETERANS DISABILITY

odd M. Johnson is a local attorney who zealously advocates for his clients. A Monroe, Louisiana native, and a Veteran (retired U.S. Air Force Commissioned Officer), Todd obtained his B.S. in Industrial Engineering Technology from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, Illinois, and a M.S. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, Louisiana. After attending Louisiana Tech University, he attended Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he obtained his Juris Doctorate. Todd then moved to Shreveport in 2008 where he began his career in the Oil and Gas Industry. Todd has worked as an Investigator, an Assistant District Attorney, and as a Public Defender and truly enjoyed public service. In 2011, Todd transitioned into private practice representing people in personal injury/motor vehicle accidents, worker’s compensation/injured workers, and social security disability. Todd is also one of only a few attorneys in the state who is accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to represent military veterans with their disability claims nationwide. Todd’s outgoing personality and his personal attention allows him to effectively communicate with his clients regarding complex legal issues. Everyone who seeks his representation receives his passion and zealousness to handle their case. “People call me when something terrible has happened and they need help. It’s personal to my clients, so it’s personal to me,” says Todd. “People also call me when they are denied worker’s compensation benefits following a workplace injury, when they are denied social security benefits, and when they are denied military service connected disability. It is discouraging and the matter does not have to end there. We have to fight, no matter what. That’s why our firm’s slogan is ‘Let Todd do the Job’ because we are ready to handle whatever the job calls for to help our clients.” Todd is admitted to practice law before the U.S. Federal Court, the Western District of Louisiana, and before Louisiana Municipal Courts. Todd is a life member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, and is a member of Prince Hall Free and Accepted Masons. 400 TRAVIS STREET SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318-222-4444/ 1-855-LAW-TODD WWW.TODDMJOHNSON.COM SBMAG.NET

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J . R A N S D EL L K E E N E CRIMINAL DEFENSE • CIVIL LAW SOCIAL SECURITY • DISABILITY FAMILY / DOMESTIC LAW PERSONAL INJURY • ADOPTION LAW

former U.S. attorney, J. Ransdell Keene handles cases involving personal injury, business law, adoption, domestic, civil, criminal and general litigation. He has 49 years of experience, trying cases in city, state, juvenile and federal courts.

“I enjoy the challenge of a difficult case, and I believe in the power of experience,” he said. Keene is a graduate of the University of Southwestern Louisiana. He received his Juris Doctorate from the Louisiana State University School of Law in 1972. He began his legal career as a trial attorney and became first assistant to the U.S. Attorney and later was appointed as U.S. Attorney. Born and raised in Shreveport, he opened his own office in 1982. “Our smaller law firm is able to give you the highest quality personal attention you deserve,” he said. “You’re not just another case. We take time with you so you understand your case and how we plan to represent you.” He is a specialist in litigation and enjoys the diversity of the cases he handles. In 1978, President Jimmy Carter appointed him as the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana. The Western District includes 42 parishes. Keene is a member of numerous professional organizations. He is admitted and licensed to practice law in all Louisiana State Courts, the Louisiana Supreme Court, the United States Supreme Court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit (New Orleans), the U.S. Eleventh Circuit of Appeals (Atlanta), the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals, the U.S. Tax Court and the U.S. Court of Claims. He has tried cases in throughout of Louisiana, many cases in Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, New Jersey, California, Oklahoma, North Dakota and the District of Columbia. From 2001 to 2005, he served as a commissioner with the Metropolitan Planning Commission. Keene is a member of the National Association of Former United States Attorneys, Louisiana Association of Justice, Louisiana Baptist Foundation, Carter Foundation, Louisiana State Bar Association and American Bar Association. Keene is married to Elizabeth McLean Keene and they have five children and six grandchildren. His hobbies include building museum quality sailing ships for charities, and he coached baseball for over 40 years and is a loyal St. Louis Cardinals fan. An avid reader, gardener and dog lover, he and his wife love to travel to see their college-age son play the violin and perform in college and professional orchestras and ensembles. He often gives historical lectures and book reviews and loves U.S. history issues and all issues involving public education. All five children graduated from Caddo Parish Public Schools. The Keenes are active in several animal rescue organizations and are members of the Shreveport Club. 9105 ELLERBE ROAD, SUITE 200 • SHREVEPORT, LA 318.219.3921 JRKEENELAW.COM

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L AW O F F I C E S O F R O N A L D J . M I C I OT TO, H O L L A N D J . M I C I OT TO, J U S T I N P. S M I T H , & R AC H E L D. W O R T H A M

PERSONAL INJURY • DOMESTIC LAW • CRIMINAL LAW

onald J. Miciotto has created a presence of respect and hardworking ethic throughout the community for his firm since being admitted to the bar in 1977. He is involved in many community and legal organizations that strive to achieve the best possible representation for his clients and the public.

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in changes that have made the local bar a more public service related organization. In 2015, 2016 and 2017, the American Institute of Family Law named Miciotto as being in the top 10 for client satisfaction. The American Institute For Personal Injury Law also placed him in the top 10 for client satisfaction. He and his wife, Natalie, have four children. Holland Miciotto joined the firm after being admitted to the Louisiana Bar in 2017. His primary focus is on personal injury and criminal defense. Justin Smith joined the firm in 2017. He as admitted to the Arkansas Bar in 2009 and the Louisiana Bar in 2012. He is a former Shreveport City Prosecutor. His practice is primarily focused on personal injury and criminal defense.

In the courtroom, he has an aggressive and effective presence. He participates in active trial practices consisting of high profile litigation of all forms including, but not limited to, personal injury cases.

Rachel D. Wortham, was admitted to the Texas Bar in 2007, and to the LA Bar in 2018. She joined the firm in 2012. Her Primary Practice is Family Law.

He is past resident and member of the Shreveport Bar Association. During his time as President, he was instrumental

628 STONER AVE. • SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.424.0200 SBMAG.NET

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JOHN HAMMONS

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CORNELL RUSHING FLOURNOY

N EL S O N & H A M M O N S MEDICAL MALPRACTICE • PHYSICIAN NEGLIGENCE NURSING NEGLIGENCE • HOSPITAL NEGLIGENCE

elson & Hammons, A Professional Law Corporation, was formed in 1977 by Sydney B. Nelson, who has now retired, and John L. Hammons. Since 1980, the firm has been dedicated to the investigation and handling of meritorious medical malpractice claims.

John Hammons graduated from Northeast Louisiana University, Magna Cum Laude, in 1973 with a B.A. in government. He then graduated from Louisiana State University Law School with a J.D. in 1976, where he received the award of First Place in the Robert L. Tullis Moot Court Competition. Over his career, Hammons has handled hundreds of malpractice cases and has been featured in Super Lawyers continuously since 2007.

Cornell Rushing Flournoy grew up in Shreveport and graduated from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge with a B.A. in English in 1980. She graduated from Louisiana State University Law School in 1984 and returned to Shreveport to

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WILLIAM MURRAY, JR.

clerk in the First Judicial District Court, Caddo Parish. She joined Nelson & Hammons in 1986. Flournoy has been a diplomate of the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys continuously since 2009. William Murray, Jr. graduated from Louisiana State University Shreveport, Summa Cum Laude, with a B.A. in accounting in 2004, and an M.B.A. in 2005. Murray graduated from Louisiana State University Law School, earning his Juris Doctor/Diploma of Civil Law, in 2010, where he received the award of First Place in the Ira S. Flory Trial Advocacy Competition. Murray began practicing law in Shreveport at Mayer, Smith, & Roberts, and joined Nelson & Hammons in 2012. He has been selected as a Super Lawyers Rising Star continuously since 2018. Nelson & Hammons has offices in Shreveport and Lafayette. The main office is located in downtown Shreveport in a historic, three-story building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The building was purchased by the founding partners and has been renovated, but it still retains its early 1900’s charm. 705 MILAM ST. • SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 • 318.227.2401 WWW.NELSONHAMMONS.COM

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THE NORRIS L AW G R O U P CRIMINAL LAW • DOMESTIC LAW ESTATE PLANNING

bonee Rhodes Norris became a lawyer because she wanted to be an agent of change.

“I grew up in the Cherokee/ Highland Park neighborhood of Shreveport. These humble beginnings played a pivotal role in the attorney that I am today. I witnessed firsthand the impact that the justice system has on families. I also understand that, for many, legal services may seem out of reach. These humble beginnings taught me the meaning of strength, and the importance of being a voice for the voiceless,” said Norris, who attended Caddo Parish Magnet High School before moving on to LSU-Shreveport and Southern University Law Center. “I believe what sets me apart from others is my passion, care for my clients, and attention to detail. Our law firm offers a client-centered approach. Each client who enters our office brings the biggest problem in their life. To that end, I approach each case with understanding and empathy. I believe this approach plays a major role in our ability to represent each client case.” Norris always represents her clients with grace. “I give each client the zealous representation they deserve,” she said. “My clients are more than fees and social media posts. They are family. I establish genuine relationships with each client, which helps me humanize them in the face of the justice system.” Norris can’t imagine working in any other profession, and that passion shows through her witty and charming personality. My mother, Sharon, a retired legal assistant, always instilled the importance of hard work and education. “I believe that love is essential to my success. I genuinely love what I do, and I love the people I represent,” Norris adds. Norris is highly involved with many Shreveportarea organizations. She’s involved in the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club, Goodwill Industries Board of Directors, and the Red River Film Society Board of Directors. She is also a contract attorney with Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana. Norris’s accolades include the Lawyers of Distinction, National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, American Institute of Trial Lawyers Litigator of the Year, American Institute of Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys Top 10 under 40, and the American

Institute of Legal Professionals Lawyer of the Year. Norris is passionate about community service and activism. She is married to her college sweetheart, John Norris. They share one child, Madeline Joy, and two fur children, Remy and Martin. 6130 FAIRFIELD AVENUE • SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 318.771.7000 WWW.ATTORNEYNORRIS.COM SBMAG.NET

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e know that your world is turned upside down after a devastating injury. Physical pain, mental anguish, and of course, financial struggles often follow those affected by a car accident or other injury for weeks, months, and even years. Our number one goal is your complete physical, emotional and financial recovery. We treat every client like family and want to make sure you feel taken care of every step of the way. Some of our core values include justice, mercy, truth, and compassion. We believe these values are essential to the practice of law and each of our attorneys exemplifies these values every day. Our firm not only has a true heart for the wellbeing of our clients, but we also have the experience and resources needed to secure the best result for your case every time. Our attorneys have over 60 82

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years of combined experience working in personal injury and know the nuances of their field inside and out. Because our firm has been around for 40+ years, we have been able to build a network of doctors and specialists to ensure you receive the best medical care. We know that pursuing a personal injury claim can be stressful and confusing. When you hire Rice & Kendig, we handle every detail of your case so that you can focus on recovery. We can secure police reports, medical records and even set up doctors appointment for you. If you need an experienced attorney who truly cares about your well-being, then give us a call! We can’t wait to hear from you. CONNECT WITH US! Scan code to visit our website or Follow us on Social Media Rice & Kendig Personal Injury Attorneys

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ZACH AND MEAGAN SHADINGER

T H E L AW O F F I C E O F Z AC H S H A D I N G E R CAR WRECKS • 18-WHEELER WRECKS OIL FIELD ACCIDENTS • PERSONAL INJURY CRIMINAL DEFENSE

ince starting his practice, Zach Shadinger’s law office has continued to grow. Clients come to Zach because they know he’s a lawyer they can trust and Zach is proud of the reputation he has built. “A lot of people come to me based on a recommendation from someone. That really means the world to me -- that my clients and my community think highly of me, both as a lawyer and a person.”

Zach has always taken a hands-on approach to his practice. “When a client comes to my office, I know exactly who they are and the details of their case. In bigger firms, clients sometimes talk more to assistants than their attorney. When you don’t interact your clients or files on a regular basis, you never really get to know them. That’s not how we do things in my office.” As his practice continues to grow, Zach remains committed to making sure his firm maintains its hands-on approach. When it

was time to add another lawyer to his practice, Zach turned to one of the best attorneys he knew and decided to team up with his wife, Meagan. Meagan is a talented attorney who has experience working on multi-million dollar cases. But most importantly, Zach knows that she is an attorney his clients can trust. Meagan is excited about working with Zach, “I always admire the relationships Zach builds with his clients. He genuinely cares about them as people. In the past, I have seen firms prioritize case value over the clients themselves. I know Zach’s office will never be like that. As attorneys, we want the best outcome for our clients, but we shouldn’t forget about our clients as people either.” The Law Office of Zach Shadinger may be smaller than the other firms, but that “small-town feel” of their firm is what sets it apart. “We want to have the type of practice that values people first.” Zach and Meagan are looking forward to opening their new office in Benton. “Zach tells everyone to stop by and have a cup of coffee once the office is completed. And he genuinely means it. That’s one of the things I love about working with him.” 2123 SHED ROAD • BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 • 318.742.1111 WWW.ZSHADLAW.COM SBMAG.NET

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AL AN STEGALL PERSONAL INJURY CRIMINAL DEFENSE

obody asks to be hit by a car or to be injured by a defective product. However, when the unexpected happens, personal injury attorney Alan Stegall is there to help.

Alan Stegall represents people in cases involving car wrecks, truck wrecks, defective products, brain injuries, and wrongful death, among other things. He also represents people in criminal matters. Alan finds helping others rewarding. “I represent people when something unfortunate has happened to them. My clients often face difficult situations, and we try to help them move forward. I want to provide my clients with the help they need, and I try to reach the best resolution possible as quickly as I can for them.” One of the greatest compliments Alan receives is the many referrals he receives from past clients. Part of the reason for those recommendations is the personal attention he pays to each of his clients. “When someone hires my office, I am their attorney,” said Alan, noting he answers calls, letters and emails promptly. “My clients speak to me and not someone else. I handle their case from the beginning until the conclusion of the matter, and I work to get the best result possible.” Alan is a graduate of Northwood High School, Northwestern State University, and LSU Law School. Alan has been practicing in Shreveport since 1999. He launched his solo law practice in 2007. Alan is licensed to practice in both Louisiana and Texas. He is a member of the Louisiana Association for Justice, the American Association for Justice, the Louisiana State Bar Association, the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, the Texas Bar Association, and the American Bar Association. He is a member of the National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers since 2014 and received an America’s Top 100 Attorneys lifetime achievement award in 2017. 212 TEXAS ST., SUITE 100 SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.221.8000 WWW.ALANSTEGALL.COM

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T H A X TO N T I T L E & THE THAXTON LAW FIRM

nderstanding the importance of a reputable title company in a real estate transaction is the first step in making one of the biggest investments of a life time. From conducting a title search and issuing title insurance to serving as the closing agent for your transaction, Thaxton Title makes buying a home a little less stressful. Thaxton Title provides the crucial services needed for residential and commercial real estate transactions to all of Northwest Louisiana. What sets them apart from other title companies and real estate law firms is their commitment to customer service. Working with clients, responding quickly and efficiently to their needs and maintaining a higher standard has made for a successful practice. Beginning with a title search for the property you wish to invest in is only the beginning. It’s also one of the most important duties that provides a history of the rights, interests, and encumbrances affecting your potential purchase. This may include: • • • • • • • •

Secondary or junior mortgages Lines of Credit Judgments Demands Liens Unpaid taxes Special assessments Other legal issues specific to the area

To ensure that the title is as clear as possible from any hidden problems, Title Insurance is essential. Protection from fraudulent ownership claims and any other unforeseen issues that may arise is what Thaxton does best. Working with Thaxton Title as a part of your real estate purchase or mortgage closing process prevents you from encountering potential problems. Thaxton Title goes above and beyond to uncomplicate an otherwise complicated real estate closing. By crossing all the “T’s” and dotting all the “I’s” as well as acting as a mediator between the buying and selling party, you can rest assured that all the necessary documentation is signed, sealed and delivered. Buying a home should be an exciting experience. Thaxton Title and The Thaxton Law Firm stands ready to make this event a memorable one. 1325 BARKSDALE BLVD., SUITE 105 BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 318-383-1313 WWW.THAXTONTITLE.COM SBMAG.NET

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special advertising section support, protective orders, custody, spousal support, and community property cases. Serving as a hearing officer complements his current trial practice, allowing him to view cases from the court’s perspective, which helps him to effectively advocate for his clients. In 2020, he presided over 250 family law actions centering on custody, spousal support, protective orders and community property partitions.

L AW O F F I C E S O F DHU THOMPSON PERSONAL INJURY • FAMILY LAW • NURSING HOME NEGLIGENCE • CRIMINAL DEFENSE

hu Thompson, along with Associate Attorney Taylor Hipp and the staff of the Law Offices of J. Dhu Thompson, APLC, work hard and use the latest advances in trial practice technique to litigate their clients’ legal interests. Mr. Thompson has a diverse law practice and trial experience in criminal defense (recently securing a not-guilty verdict for a client charged with murder in Desoto Parish), family law (successful custody trials involving parent and grandparent actions), business law litigation (currently represents the newly formed Shreveport Police Union), nursing home negligence (numerous settlements for wrongful death and abuse actions), and catastrophic personal injury cases (recent six-figure trial verdict in a wrongful death action). He has conducted over 100 jury trials in his career, including civil and criminal trials. He has further tried hundreds of custody cases. The diversity of his legal experience allows him to litigate a variety of legal matters throughout Louisiana in Federal, State, and Municipal Courts. Mr. Thompson is also an appointed Hearing Officer Judge for the 5th Judicial District Court, where he presides and makes recommendations on child

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J. Dhu Thompson Mr. Thompson graduated from Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After graduation, Mr. Thompson worked for the Louisiana Department of Insurance. He then joined the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office as an assistant district attorney, becoming an original member of the Special Homicide Offender Targeting Unit. From 2004 to 2015, Mr. Thompson was an assistant district attorney in the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office, where he successfully tried hundreds of criminal cases, such as armed robbery, DWI, and murder. As a special assistant district attorney, Mr. Thompson successfully prosecuted many high-profile criminals, including Brian Horn, who was convicted of the heinous murder of young Justin Bloxom, and Michael Kevin Hailey, whose cases and prosecution were portrayed in the book Among Murder and Madness. Mr. Thompson is also a lecturer at police academies, colleges, and local civic organizations on current law and liability issues. He is a member of the Louisiana State Bar, Shreveport Bar Association, American Association for Justice, American and Louisiana Association for Criminal Defense, and North Shreveport Business Association. Taylor E. Hipp Taylor Hipp is an Associate Attorney at the Law Offices of J. Dhu Thompson. Taylor earned her Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Political Science at Florida State University, and then went on to earn her Juris Doctorate from Stetson University College of Law in 2015. While in law school, she was an editor for the Journal of International Wildlife Law and Policy and she interned with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Following law school, Taylor went on to earn her LL.M in Environmental Law from Vermont Law School in 2018. Taylor has a broad range of experience in environmental law, wills and trusts, guardianships, and in contract drafting and review, including in commercial and residential rental and leasing agreements, as well as construction contract agreements. Taylor is a valuable asset to the firm and assists with all domestic and criminal cases. 7607 FERN AVENUE, SUITE 402, SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA 71105 • (318) 670-8018 WWW.DHUTHOMPSONLAW.COM

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B E R G L AW F I R M

CRIMINAL DEFENSE & FAMILY LAW

et our family help your family. That attitude and devotion to clients has driven Kevin Berg and Nicole Holmes since opening their office. This husband and wife team focuses on criminal defense and family law. Every case that comes through their door gets the time and attention of both attorneys. A diverse perspective sets the service to their clients apart. Every case is viewed from a male and female point of view, so no details are overlooked. They attribute their unique perspective to their diverse backgrounds. Kevin, a Shreveport native and Byrd High graduate, and Nicole, a country girl from Foxworth, Mississippi, met in law school and began playing off each other’s strengths immediately. Kevin has a sharp wit and easy manner that sets him apart in navigating the court room and presenting cases to a jury while Nicole has the interest and passion for research that ensures every option is explored and every right is protected. In addition to their passion for law, they are also avid photographers and world travelers. These experiences carry into their practice because, just like photographers are always looking for different angles to tell the full story, Kevin and Nicole are working every angle to ensure their clients’ best angle takes the spotlight. Additionally, travel broadens the mind and opens you up to different experiences, enabling you to see issues from different angles. The Berg Law Firm uses those experiences to craft firm, aggressive defenses for their clients.

When you or your loved one is in trouble or when you are looking for guidance during family disputes, call The Berg Law Firm. “Because we are a family, our clients make up our extended family. Their problems are our problems,” Berg said. When you need more than just one in your corner, let two fight for you! 2902 CENTENARY BLVD. SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 318.946.8962 WWW.THEBERGLAWFIRM.COM

GORDON & GORDON LAW FIRM CAR ACCIDENTS • WORKERS’ COMPENSATION WRONGFUL DEATH • 18-WHEELER ACCIDENTS

aniel R. Gordon and his brother, Stephen T. Gordon, founded Gordon & Gordon Law Firm to continue serving people hurt either on the highway or in the workplace.

Daniel R. Gordon was born and raised in Shreveport and after graduating from Southwood High School, he obtained his bachelor of arts in business from Ouachita Baptist University, his MBA from Henderson State University, and his law degree from Mississippi College School of Law. He has been practicing since 2003 in the area of personal injury law and workers’ compensation. Daniel married Jenifer in 1999 and they have three sons. Stephen T. Gordon was born in the Panama Canal Zone, the son of Air Force Captain Norman R. Gordon and Sherry Gordon. Shreveport has been home to Stephen since 1973 — the year that Stephen’s father began his law practice. Stephen graduated from Southwood High School in 1987, and from East Texas Baptist University in 1990. Stephen earned an MBA at Millsaps College in 1994. He earned his law degree at Mississippi College in 1997 and has been practicing law for more than 22 years. He and his wife, Sheralyn, have been happily married since 1992 and have four sons. 5105 HEARNE AVE., SHREVEPORT 2118 AIRLINE DRIVE, BOSSIER CITY 1204 POLK ST., MANSFIELD • 318.716.HELP WWW.716HELP.COM SBMAG.NET

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LO R I C . G R A H A M AT TO R N E Y AT L AW, L . L .C . PERSONAL INJURY • CRIMINAL • FAMILY • WILLS SUCCESSIONS • MUNICIPAL LAW

passionate and successful attorney with 21 years of experience as a lawyer, Lori C. Graham was born and raised in Homer, LA, educated at Louisiana Tech University, and received her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Southern University Law Center in 2000. After working as a law clerk at Caddo Parish District Court and as an assistant district attorney for Caddo Parish, she founded the Law Office of Attorney Lori C. Graham in 2002. Lori also serves as City Attorney for her hometown. Graham captures the respect of clients and jurors alike, as proven by her fight for the many clients who have received the compensation and justice they deserve. She is passionate when it comes to serving her clients and feels that her willingness to listen, knowledge of the law, and perseverance are all important factors in representing clients and for successful outcomes. Graham is a member of the Louisiana State Bar and Shreveport Bar Association. She also participates in youth volunteer work and community outreach programs with her church. Outside of work and volunteering, Lori spends time traveling, camping, ATV riding, horseback riding, and fishing with her husband, Gerod Durden, and their children, Joshua and Brooklynn. 7591 FERN AVENUE, SUITE 1204 SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 • 318.869.0177

L AW O F F I C E S O F DA M O N D. K E R V I N , A PROFESSIONAL LAW CORPORATION

PERSONAL INJURY AND WRONGFUL DEATH

amon D. Kervin, a Trial Lawyer from Rayville, LA, has been in practice for 18 years. He graduated from the University of Louisiana at Monroe (formerly Northeast Louisiana University) and Texas A&M University School of Law (formerly Texas Wesleyan University School of Law). Kervin and his team primarily focus on personal injury and wrongful death, and they work very hard to help their clients gain the compensation they deserve. Kervin is a part of the Louisiana Bar, Texas Bar, Shreveport Bar, Council of Directors of Louisiana Association for Justice, American Association for Justice, Interstate Trucking Litigation Group, Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, Traumatic Brain Injury Litigation Group, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, and the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association. Damon’s proudest accomplishment is his wife, Katy, and their two sons. Kervin is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. 7607 FERN AVENUE, BUILDING 203 SHREVEPORT, LA AND 911 JULIA STREET RAYVILLE, LA 318-754-3492 SHREVEPORT 318-728-3060 RAYVILLE

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H . LY N L AW R E N C E , J R .

PERSONAL INJURY • FAMILY LAW • CRIMINAL LAW

. Lyn Lawrence, Jr. is one of the premier trial lawyers in the Bossier City area, representing individuals and families throughout northwest Louisiana for over 27 years. He is an aggressive advocate for his clients and is dedicated to helping members of his community with their legal problems.

Lyn refers to his staff as the “dream team”. His paralegals, Sandra Monroe and Robin Barr, have a combined experience in the legal field of more than 30 years. They all work closely together to assist clients in navigating through the complex and intimidating issues that surround the areas in which he focuses his practice, including personal injury, family law and criminal defense, as well as an additional range of general civil litigation matters. He calls it a “People’s Practice” and he and his staff enjoy representing people and solving their problems. His memberships include the Louisiana State Bar Association, Shreveport Bar, Bossier Bar and the Louisiana Association for Justice. He enjoyed his reign as King of Justinian XXI, as well as serving as Duke of Justinian XVIII. The Krewe of Justinian serves not only as a social avenue, but also donates funds to the Pro Bono Project of the Shreveport Bar Foundation, as well as sharing the spirit of Mardi Gras with several local elementary school students. Born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana, Lyn graduated from

Woodlawn High School and earned a scholarship to Louisiana Tech University, where he graduated with a degree in accounting. He attended law school at LSU, where he earned his law degree in 1993. He is the proud father of three children: Peyton (25); Harrison (22); and LauraLeigh (19), a freshmen at LSU Baton Rouge. He is an avid sports fan, loves to fish at his camp on Lake Bistineau, but most of all, loves spending time with friends and family. 3985 AIRLINE DRIVE • BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 318.741.9595 WWW.LYNLAWRENCE.COM

M A R K J . M I C I OT TO FAMILY LAW • CRIMINAL PERSONAL INJURY REAL ESTATE

ark J. Miciotto, a 2016 Rising Star Super Lawyer, has always had a passion for standing up for other people’s rights. The hard-working attorney, who has been practicing since 2012, enjoys helping people deal with their legal issues. He focuses intently on his clients and showers them with the utmost personal attention, often working long hours in the process. Born and raised in Shreveport, Miciotto has strong family ties to the community. After completing his undergraduate work at Northwestern State University, he graduated from Southern University Law Center in 2010. Soon he became a law clerk for the Caddo Parish First Judicial District Court and later an associate at his cousin Ronald J. Miciotto’s law firm. In October 2013, Mark started his own practice (Mark J. Miciotto, L.L.C.) with a focus on family law litigation, criminal defense, estate/successions, civil disputes and personal injury. Since opening his practice, he has experienced tremendous growth and aims to continue this by providing top quality service to his clients. 2902 CENTENARY BLVD. 628 STONER AVE • SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.221.7806 SBMAG.NET

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special advertising section Her main goal has always been to serve the community as best she can, and she is always looking for ways to improve and better serve those in need. Reed has been practicing for about a year and a half now and always puts her best foot forward. Relatability is what sets Audrius apart from other attorneys. She prides herself on being able to relate to the majority of her clientele. Clients need that. Knowing that an attorney understands the severity of a client’s personal situation from a legal perspective, as well as the emotional toll it takes on them, reassures them that the attorney truly has their best interests in mind. Reed finds that clients are more apt to heed the advisement of someone who “gets it”.

AU D R I U S M . R EED, AT TO R N E Y A L AW, L L C FAMILY/DOMESTIC LAW, CRIMINAL DEFENSE, PERSONAL INJURY, AND ESTATE PLANNING

aith, purpose, confidence, and intent are just a few of the characteristics that make Audrius M. Reed an outstanding attorney. Reed primarily focuses on Family/Domestic Law, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, and Estate Planning. She chose these areas based on the needs of the communities that she grew up in.

Audrius is involved with the Shreveport Bar Association’s Women Section, where she serves as the Vice President, and is a member of the Shreveport-Bossier African American Chamber. She also actively participates in the monthly Ask-aLawyer events and has taken on Pro Bono divorce cases. Any individual seeking legal representation should look for someone ethical, trustworthy, transparent, and approachable. That is what makes Reed successful. What Reed loves most about practicing law is having the opportunity to navigate someone through some of the most challenging times in his or her life. Outside of the office and the courtroom, Audrius is a wife and mother of two rambunctious toddlers. Her hobbies include spending time with family and friends, volunteerism through her church, shopping, reading, and traveling. 631 MILAM STREET, SUITE 105 SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA

Rice is a native of Shreveport, who attended Caddo Magnet High School and Centenary College. He later went on to earn a Masters in Business Administration and Juris Doctor from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. Rice has been practicing law for 16 years, the majority of that time spent handling cases for victims of motor vehicle accidents. “People often say, ‘Oh well, accidents happen.’ While the saying is true, it is also true that there are always reasons accidents happen and those reasons are usually carelessness or negligence. When it is a motor vehicle accident, it can have a serious impact on a person’s life. We want to help injured people reclaim their lives.”

JOEL A . RICE R I C E L AW F I R M

PERSONAL INJURY

oel A. Rice is an experienced personal injury attorney based in Shreveport. “Rice Law Firm is here to serve our clients and see that they are restored from the harms and losses they have suffered,” he said.

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He credits his success to God. “I feel blessed,” Rice said. “All promotion comes from the Lord. All glory is His. I want to serve Him in my practice and the people He leads to us. The practice of law is more to me than just solving legal problems. As attorneys, we should strive to exceed professional standards. It is about seeing real change and improvement in the lives of members of our community.”

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910 PIERREMONT ROAD, SUITE 410 • SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 • 318.861.8661 RICELAWFIRMLLC.COM

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SMITHERM AN, HILL & B R I C E , L .C . PERSONAL INJURY • DIVORCE WILLS & ESTATE • BUSINESS & TRANSACTIONAL LAW • REAL ESTATE CRIMINAL DEFENSE • TRUSTS • ELDER LAW TAXATION • WORK COMP • OIL & GAS MEDICAL MALPRACTICE NURSING HOME NEGLECT

he law firm of Smitherman, Hill & Brice, L.C. prides itself in helping people solve all types of problems and serving its clients by assisting them in focusing on their needs and goals.

Founded in 1922, Smitherman, Hill & Brice, L.C. has a tradition of providing a complete spectrum of legal services, while devoting personal and individual attention to every client. The firm holds the AV rating (highest possible) in the Martindale-Hubble attorney referral publication. W. James Hill, III (COL(R) USAR) a Shreveport native, is a graduate of Vanderbilt University with a Master’s from North Texas State and his J.D. from LSU Law School. He is also admitted in TX, OK, MO, CO, KS, MS and DC, and has over 45 years of broad legal experience. Donald Lee Brice, Jr., a Minden native, is a graduate of LSU and LSU Law School and adds his own 33 years of broad legal expertise.

JOHN N . BOKE N FOH R

F. Weber Hill received his MBA and JD degrees from Oklahoma City School of Law. He joined the firm in 2015 after clerking for the First Judicial District Court for three years. D. Garrett Hill received his MBA and JD degree from the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth. He joined the firm in 2016 after clerking for the First Judicial District Court for two years. Both are Shreveport natives. 8570 BUSINESS PARK DRIVE, SUITE 100 SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 • 318.227.1990

Thanks for voting us at the Caddo DA Office as

2021 TOP ATTORNEYS!

DIVORCE • CHILD CUSTODY CRIMINAL DEFENSE WILLS & SUCCESSIONS

ohn N. Bokenfohr has been practicing law for nearly 20 years, and he can’t imagine doing anything else. “My favorite aspect of my job is conducting trials, both bench trials and jury trials,” said Bokenfohr, a Shreveport native. “I am passionate about giving my clients the best representation possible. Fighting for my clients is both rewarding and motivating.” He primarily focuses on divorces, custody, and criminal defense, along with wills and successions. His passionate and intense yet professional personality has propelled him to a successful career. “These traits usually let my opponent know that I can be a difficult opponent if they’re not paying attention to their file,” Bokenfohr said. “I try to keep my clients’ expectations reasonable, and I don’t take advantage of them by running up unnecessary fees.” 7330 FERN AVE, SUITE 903 SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 • 318.747.5329 JOHNNBOKENFOHRLAW.COM

Sarah Hood, Juvenile Div.; Monique Y. Metoyer, Homicide Screening; William Edwards, Special Prosecutor; Mekisha Smith Creal, Section Chief; Senae D. Hall, Assistant District Attorney

(318) 226-6826

www.caddoda.com

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HARRIS LAW FIRM, LLC PERSONAL INJURY, CRIMINAL DEFENSE, FAMILY LAW, SUCCESSIONS AND WILLS AND CIVIL LITIGATION

ourtney N. Harris has always had an overwhelming passion and desire to practice law. “I have a loyalty that runs deep within me to evoke change,” said Harris, a Shreveport native and graduate of Southern University Law Center. As the only student within her graduating class to obtain a Joint Juris Doctorate and Master’s in Public Administration, Harris has continued to make significant strides in her career. As a former Judicial Law Clerk for the First Judicial District Court and former Assistant City Attorney for the City of Shreveport, Harris has continued to expand her presence in the community. In her private practice, (Harris Law Firm, L.L.C.), she attributes her growing success to her faith and dedication to serve those in need. Her areas of practice include Criminal Defense, Family Law, Personal Injury, Successions and Wills and Civil Litigation.

Thank you to all of my current and former clients for your trust. It is an honor to represent each of you. - Scott J. Chafin www.gcj-law.com

Harris is well respected by her colleagues and known for her professionalism and strong desire to advocate for her clients. She is currently President of the Women’s Section for the Shreveport Bar Association having been elected as the Vice-President in 2020 and member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and Harry V. Booth – Judge Henry A. Politz Inn of Court. 610 MARSHALL STREET, SUITE 624 SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 • 318.402.9129 WWW.HARRIS-LAWFIRM.COM

318-865-8680

WILLIA M R . LONG WORKERS’ COMPENSATION SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

nowledge, extensive experience and a commitment to excellence is what makes William R. (Randy) Long a successful attorney. Randy began his law career 33 years ago as a personal injury attorney. From there, it was a natural progression into serving the needs of Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability clients. He contributes his success to hard work and staying on top of the constantly changing legal landscape. While making a positive difference in people’s lives is a highlight of the job, Randy believes that there is no substitute for putting in the necessary time to be an effective advocate for his clients.

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ance Mosley has been in the title business for nearly 30 years and is the managing member at Mosley Title Company, where he specializes in residential and commercial development work. “We are a locally owned business. Our employees live in Bossier or Caddo Parish.” Mosley, a Bossier City native, graduated from LSUS and Tulane University Law School.

Randy has been married to Deanna (Schwartzenburg) for 33 years. Together they have raised two, well-rounded and successful children; Darbi and Hunter. He counts this as his most worthy accomplishment. He is an active member of the St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Benton, Louisiana. A true Louisiana man, Randy enjoys hunting and fishing. He also enjoys a snow skiing adventure.

Gordon Mosley is an attorney at Mosley Title Company, where he works on commercial and residential real estate transactions. He graduated from Tulane University’s business and law schools. He clerked for the 26th Judicial District Court where he was an appointed delegate to the House of Delegates of the Louisiana State Bar Association. Gordon serves as the President for the Bossier Rotary and is the past President of the Shreveport Bar Association — Young Lawyers Division.

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2021

THE RANKS KEEP GROWING:

THE WOMEN WHO HAVE RISEN THROUGH THE RANKS AND BECOME A JUDGE IN CADDO PARISH

Whether at the municipal, state or federal level, women are currently leading innovative programs, going out of their way to speak to community groups, and constantly inspiring young people, both men and women, to follow their dreams. None of them have been deterred during years of being one of the only women in a room. Here are a few of their stories. Forefront of Change Chief Judge Pammela Lattier was sworn in as the first woman and first African American Chief Judge for the Shreveport City Court on May 22, 2020. She is very proud of her role in history, and believes she was fully prepared for such an accomplishment. “Preparation, plus opportunity, equals success,” says Lattier. “When people prepare themselves for whatever it is they want to achieve and are given the opportunity to do what they have prepared for, then they will be successful. That is how it can and does work.” Growing up in Augusta, Georgia, Lattier earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Georgia in 1985, and her law degree from Southern University Law Center in 1989. Before becoming a Shreveport City Judge in 2008, Lattier navigated the legal system as an Administrative Law Judge for the State of Louisiana, a Judicial Hearing Officer for the First Judicial District Court, staff attorney for the Louisiana Department of Social Services, and an Assistant District Attorney for the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office.

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by Adam Bailey

“I have wanted to be a judge since the second grade,” admits Lattier. “I was inspired by an African American judge who came to speak to our class that year. Growing up in the South during the 1960s, it was rare to see a person of color in the profession. So becoming a lawyer, and then a judge, was a surreal moment because I worked hard, I had faith. It was definitely a full circle moment for me.” The key, however, was a new generation of women lawyers who were so conditioned to breaking glass ceilings that they weren’t daunted when their opportunity arrived. “The law has been a male dominated field for a long time; however, women are becoming the first in areas because of the bravery of the dedicated women who came before them and who made it possible to dare to dream of other women who came before them. When we acknowledge their accomplishments, it reflects the progress that is being made. It helps those who desire to break into that field or industry to see it is possible to do it for them.”

Judge Lattier admits went into law to be the change. “I did not want to talk about what wasn’t being done. I did not want to sit there and dwell on the negativity. I asked myself what I could do to help out the world.” Considering all that she has accomplished, Lattier is aware of what it means to be a woman judge, but believes progress and change is among us. She is humbled to be at the forefront of this change, and hopes she can give hope to young women, too. “Envision yourself in the position of a judge. Believe in yourself, never quit or give up on what it is that you desire to become. The only right way is the way that is best for you. Know what you want to accomplish, develop a plan for how you will accomplish it, work hard, and trust God and it will happen for you.” The Law is a Jealous Mistress “Anything worth having is worth working for and I have worked hard as an attorney and now judge,” says Judge Ree Casey-Jones, a juvenile court judge for Caddo Parish. “I am very proud of my career path and the differences I have made in people’s lives—whether I’ve represented them as a lawyer, they appear before me in court as a judge or interactions with them in the community. I try to make a difference or place a mark on people’s lives that I come in direct contact with.” A second-generation lawyer, Casey-Jones obtained a Juris Doctorate from Southern University Law Center in 2005. She immediately began practicing law with her father, and worked alongside him for ten years before being elected to the Caddo Parish Juvenile Court in December 2016. It was her father who often told her growing up that “the law is a jealous mistress!” And she full-heartedly stands by that statement. “If you want to be great as a legal professional, you have to take the time to study and become fully knowledgeable in the profession. It demands your time.” Even with all the demands, and sacrifices, she absolutely loves being a judge. “I love what I do and the people that I work with. We are a team and I realize that I could never do any of this alone and I am forever grateful to the judicial staff for the support that they give daily. I am also grateful for the opportunity that the citizens of Caddo Parish have given me to serve them. This is an honor that I do not take lightly.” Her daily mission is to “be a positive role model for all children in every aspect of her life and to administer justice with compassion and integrity for every family and every child.” Making a Difference through Service “I am devoted to my work and I’m committed to making a difference in the lives of others through service,” says Judge Shonda Stone, an Appellate Judge for the Second Circuit Court of Appeal. She attributes much of her professional confidence—as well as her desire to serve—to her parents, the late Dr. Jesse Stone, Jr. and Willia Dean Stone. Both taught her “to whom much is given, much is required.” “I lived a blessed childhood growing up with two incredible parents who instilled strong values of education and justice. I saw my parents’ dedication to civil rights and equality for all people and it definitely helped shape me into the woman and public servant I am today.” Her father was a member of the first graduating class of the Southern University Law Center, the first African-American attorney to set up shop in Shreveport in 1950, the first graduate of Southern

University Law to eventually serve as dean, the first African-American assistant state superintendent of education in Louisiana and the first African-American to serve on the Louisiana Supreme Court. Her mother, a retired state educator, taught Shonda the importance of education, and insisted that she pass on her knowledge as a means of empowering others. Despite society’s attitudes about women in the workplace, her parents always treated her as an equal and supported her interest in the law. “My parents encouraged me and told me that I could do anything I wanted to do with an education. I put my head to the grindstone. I worked hard. I took opportunities to do things in the law, serve humanity and serve them well.” Prior to be electing to the Second Circuit Court of Appeal, Judge Stone was a Caddo Parish Juvenile Court Judge—where she decided cases of child abuse and neglect, families in need of services and delinquency. Before that, Stone practiced law at what she called “the people’s level.” Those jobs help her master the skill of getting to the root of the problem, a skill that has helped her to make wise decisions in the courtroom. “I was part of a small firm and later a solo practice where I saw clients in the community of Northwest Louisiana. As a general practitioner, you took what came through the door, learning about the laws that impact real people every day. I was able to build trust and relationships with entire families as I attended to their legal needs.” Outside the courtroom, Judge Stone devotes her time hosting seminars geared around her passion to serve. Currently, she is actively working to establish her own non-profit that will deal with the issue of diversity and access in the legal profession. “I don’t wait for someone to ask me for assistance, I get involved and encourage others to do the same,” Stone says. See Firsthand How the Sausage is Made As a current judge for the Second Circuit Court of Appeal (and a former judge for the First Judicial District Court), Judge Jeanette Garrett is a self-described “law geek.” She admits she has heard every case imaginable across the legal spectrum—everything from adoptions, murders, family law, business disputes, criminal and zoning cases. “Being an Appellate Judge really is an amazing job and I look forward to the challenge it presents every day,” she says. From a very young age, Garrett knew she wanted to be a lawyer. “I just loved the idea of solving problems and helping people.” A graduate from the LSU School of Law, she worked as a law clerk for the Louisiana Supreme Court and the Louisiana Court of Appeal immediately out of law school. From there, Garret worked for the Caddo Parish Public Defender Office as a trial and appellate attorney before entering into private practice with her father at Giddens & Garrett. She believes that her experience in private practice was invaluable in preparing her for her role as a judge. “It taught me how to reduce complex matters to the simplest issues and facts. Having worked on every type of legal case imaginable, while understanding the complexities, I approached each case with kindness and grace.” The work also made her adaptable in the most stressful situations, a trait that has proved invaluable to her time on the bench. “As a lawyer or judge you never know what may confront you in terms of legal or factual issues, and there is always the possibility of unexpected conflict.” Garrett further claims that by working for both public and priSBMAG.NET

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the necessity of success in our profession in our near future as young women make strides as we stand in front and pull them forward.” Making the Most of Opportunities Judge Frances Pitman of the Louisiana Second Circuit Court of Appeal doesn’t like the terms “female judge” or “woman judge” to be used as a modifier when describing women on the bench. “I find both terms “woman judge” and “female judge” equally old-fashioned. When I was first admitted to the bar there were no female judges in Caddo Parish. Soon after that there were two—now there are twelve. We have certainly come a long way. Being a female on the bench isn’t so much of a novelty anymore.”

vate law offices laid the foundation for her time as a judge. “It’s been an honor to serve both Caddo Parish and the State of Louisiana, as both an advocate and a judge,” she said. “I enjoy participating in rulings that have relevance both to the parties and to the development of the law. I understand the responsibility of my job and I give my very best to every case reported or unreported.” Since Garrett has learned so much from others, one way she gives back is by helping to develop and give lectures in educational programs for judges and lawyers. When asked what advice she would you give to a woman interested in becoming a judge. “The law is such an interesting topic and there are so many interesting issues that are presented every day,” she confesses. “My advice to any young attorney who thinks they may want to run for judge one day is to try and get a job as a law clerk at a busy district court so they can see firsthand how the sausage is made. Clerking provides valuable experience and insight. Likewise, get involved in the community—both professionally and personally. Develop great mentors who can help guide your career and provide the support that you will need when the time comes to run for office.”

Pitman continues, as a woman on the bench, “I take my job very seriously. I try to write my opinions in ways that make them readily understandable and easily accessible to other judges and lawyers. We work to have a level playing field and to make sure everyone is treated fairly.” Prior to becoming a lawyer and judge, Pitman was a speech pathologist for the public school system, but felt that in order to increase her professional opportunities an advanced degree was needed. She narrowed her choices between a PhD and a JD, ultimately choosing to attend law school at the LSU Law Center in Baton Rouge. “The law is a great profession that can provide anyone with intellectual challenges and opportunities for advancement, as well as a way to make a positive difference in the world,” Pitman believes, adding that the landscape of legal education has undergone great changes since she went to law school in the late 80s and early 90s.

Speaking Out

Pitman past experiences—as an educator, lawyer, and judge—has taught her that confronting challenges can lead to positive results. In 1999, Pitman ran for or Caddo Juvenile Judge and lost in a run-off. In 2008 she ran and was unopposed for Caddo District Judge. In 2012, she won a contested election for Second Circuit Court of Appeal. She is now the second in seniority on that court.

Judge Sheva Sims, a life-long resident of Shreveport, was first elected to the Shreveport City Court bench in 2011, and re-elected in both 2014 and 2020. Before becoming a judge, Sims worked for over 17 years as an attorney handling civil and criminal litigation, along with small claims and domestic cases.

“I’m a firm believer that adversity and failure are things you want to have,” she stated. “Those things help you grow, and inevitably, they help you grow in positive ways. It’s when you let them define you that they become negative, and that’s something I would never permit those things to do.”

Sims currently stays active in the community by speaking throughout Shreveport at various schools for graduations, honor convocations and church events. She uses those venues in order to give back to the community and serve as a role model.

Furthermore, Pitman understands “if you think that working hard is going to make you reach all your dreams, you might live your life disappointed. But if you work hard and you have a dream, you’re going to arrive further than you started. You’re going to learn something in the process.”

“I have made many sacrifices in my life. However, the rewards have brought balance to the spectrum of sacrifices.” In 2012, Judge Sims was selected by the Louisiana Supreme Court to participate in the Louisiana Judicial Leadership Institute—a program designed to recognize and train future leaders in the judiciary. In 2015, Judge Sims’ portrait was added to the Southern University Law Center’s “Wall of Fame” for her level of excellence and outstanding achievements in the legal profession. “I’ve been given a great honor and responsibility as a female judge and I take it seriously,” Sims said. “Gender equality challenges remain very evident in several professions and in the legal community. I remain proud of the accomplishments of others. I look to

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The application of this philosophy over the course of her life has taken her far. It Wasn’t a Question of If She Would Be a Judge, Rather When “I always knew I was going to law school, it was just always a plan. I don’t know that I thought I’d be a lawyer, but I did intend on being a judge,” Judge Erin Leigh Waddell Garrett easily admits. ”Besides, my father was a judge. For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be just like him.” Born in Shreveport and raised in Southern Hills, Waddell Garrett is a graduate of Southwood High School. After graduating from Louisiana Tech University in 2002, she attended Southern Uni-

versity Law Center and graduated in 2006. Post law school, she immediately began working in New Orleans as a law clerk for Chief Justice Pascal F. Calogero, Jr., reporting on a variety of cases, drafting briefs and opinions. Her experience working for the Louisiana Supreme Court in New Orleans, coupled with her time practicing law as an attorney in Shreveport would prove invaluable. “Having handled a variety of different types of cases as an attorney—domestic, civil, criminal, estate planning and personal injury, in addition to being a behavioral health attorney for Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, definitely helped.” It’s because of her education and background, Judge Wadell Garrett believes that she applies the law “fairly, impartial, practical and compassionate.” This application is proof that she has the right fusion of character, intellect, common sense, empathy and respect toward others. “I try every day to render fair and just decisions in a timely fashion and to treat everyone who comes before me with respect, thereby enhancing the public’s trust in our justice system.” To those both inside and outside of the law profession, Wadell Garrett is the embodiment of the spirit of service to her profession and her community. As a mentor and leader on the bench, she continuously demonstrates by example the skills, demeanor and temperament that is so critical to providing continual justice to the citizens of Caddo Parish. “I love what I do, and I’m really excited for the future,” she humbly admits. The Judges Before Me Paved the Way Even more recent elections are still breaking barriers. Judge Natalie Howell was elected to the Caddo Parish Juvenile Court in December 2020. She understands now, more than ever, that the world is not black and white, but many shades of grey. If anything, being a female on the Juvenile Court has made her less judgmental, not more. “Coming to court is stressful for anyone,” she said. “I am mindful every day of the impact a court appearance can have on someone’s life, and try to make sure that everyone is heard, equally.” Prior to her judgeship, Howell worked both as both a juvenile prosecutor and a private attorney focused on criminal defense. Howell believes that her experience on both sides of the justice system have prepared her to be a fair judge and look at each case individually.

working with Volunteers for Youth Justice to help Caddo Parish get a full truancy center—a one-stop shop similar to the same program in Baton Rouge. “Truancy,” according to Howell, “is an opportunity to help the families and fill the gaps before the children commit crimes.” Through her community involvement, Howell has a drive to see the program succeed, and has chosen a unique and dynamic way to make her mark in the legal community. Her commitment is inspiring and her dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable children and adults reflects well as an up-and-coming judge in Caddo Parish. “I am passionate about making Caddo Parish safer, in order to encourage growth in our community.” In Caddo Parish, there are a total of 21 elected judicial positions—12 of those positions, or 57%, are female. The lone female judge at the federal level, Elizabeth Foote for the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, was appointed by President Barack Obama and confirmed by the Senate in 2010. There are currently no female judges in Bossier Parish. Female Judges in Caddo Parish Shreveport City Court Chief Judge Pammela Lattier Judge Emily S. Merckle Judge Sheva Sims Caddo Juvenile Court Judge Ree J. Casey-Jones Judge Natalie Rhorer Howell First Judicial District Court Judge Katherine C. Dorroh Judge Ramona Emanuel Judge Erin Leigh W. Garrett Judge Karelia R. Stewart Second Circuit Court of Appeal Judge Jeanette G. Garrett Judge Frances Jones Pitman Judge Shonda D. Stone

“Using my legal training and advocacy to help victims was an enormous privilege of my life,” she said. “I developed compassion, an understanding of the frailties we all carry, and that sometimes what’s unsaid is more important than what is.” Since taking the bench, she often speaks at local schools, teaching young people lessons in civics and law, while explaining her role as a Juvenile Judge, which she says wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for the female judges that paved the path before her. “I enjoy waking up and coming to work every day because you never know whose life you are going to change and the fact that I can give somebody a positive experience in court,” she said. Howell is deeply involved and is currently SBMAG.NET

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HOME MATTERS | by hailey lawson

pring is here! March 20th is the spring equinox and officially the first day of spring. As spring pushes out winter, our days get a little longer and finally a little warmer. The return of glowing sunshine and soothing warmth is a welcomed change for us as well as blooming flowers, birds, and butterflies. Now is the perfect time to mark your calendars with some weekend gardening plans. However, when planning your spring gardening, remember that the average last day of frost in northern Louisiana is April 1st. Despite the shockingly cold weather that we’ve had recently here in the Shreveport-Bossier area, the signs of spring are sprouting all around us. Our beautiful Louisiana irises and Japanese magnolias are blooming, and azaleas are beginning to show their blooms too. The grass is turning green, deciduous trees are beginning to leaf-out, and of course, pollen is absolutely everywhere.

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With the wake of spring, home gardeners should start preparing flower beds and vegetable beds for the coming warmer temperatures. It’s time to pull those nasty weeds, remove old plant roots, and spread compost and mulch. Also, dormant oils should be applied to trees and shrubs before new growth occurs to control various insect pests, such as aphids, spider mites, and scale. Fertilize established perennials to spur growth with the new spring sunlight and warmer temperatures. With the spring of spring, start mowing your lawn on the lowest setting and collect the clippings while mowing. Also, this is the perfect time to plant flowering shrubs, trees, or that herb garden you always wanted. Some great herbs to consider are basil, cilantro, dill, and mint. Additionally, get those warm-season vegetables in the ground, such as tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, corn, snap beans, and squash. However, be cautious and protect those tender vegetables in the event of a late freeze. Remember always

to water new plants adequately and keep them covered in mulch to help retain soil moisture and prevent weeds. Timing is important for the fertilization of your grass as March comes to an end. When considering a start time for fertilizing your St. Augustine grass or centipede grass, ask your local garden center for recommendations for application. Keep in mind that fertilizing too early with heavy nitrogen combined with a surprise late-season freeze will cause brown patch disease in your lawn. March is an excellent time to move houseplants outside. When it’s warm enough, find a location with ample sunlight with some shade. Also, why not go ahead and set up a hummingbird feeder or two at this time. Most importantly, take time to smell the roses and get outside to enjoy those beautiful flowers. Summer is coming, so take a moment and watch the world outside come to life!

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Marigolds Angelonia Zinnias Blue Daze Pentas Celosia Salvia Portulace Roses

BAYOU STATE ROOFING is a locally owned and operated company that specializes in Residential and Commercial Roofing. For 8 years, they have served the Shreveport Bossier area, and most recently helped those in need of roofs and repairs in Lake Charles after Hurricane Laura. Bayou State is licensed and insured to specifically work on roofs, while many roofing companies and contractors do not have roofing on their liability insurance. Out of state roofers, builders, and contractors are not bound by the warranties of Louisiana. They are also not here to personally answer questions and help with your specific needs. They go back home and you’re left with their possible mistakes. Bayou State works with you from beginning to end and after the job. They aren’t done when the roof is up. They want to make sure you’re happy and safe in your home.

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Help our readers celebrate Mom in a special April Mother’s Day Gift Guide Featuring your ad and extra space to showcase gift ideas for that special lady on their special day! For More Information call Keyle Cavalier at 318.221.7264 ext. 12

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n and Daniel lthough Morga LSU at the same were students at to go all the way time, they had trip MBA study abroad to China on an until after graduation s to meet! It wasn’t to New Orlean moved n when Morga to Shreveport that and Daniel moved . After two and the romance starteddistance dating, long Morgan a half years of the question and d poppe l ng Danie starting the weddi event said “yes”! When immediately calledKendall planning, they and family friend dream planner, florist n’s his help, Morga n wore Bailey. With e a reality. Morga gown wedding becam illy Lace Chant French n a silk white a, and a silk illusio over silk satin organz illy Lace, both Chant veil edged with Patti ively for her by n designed exclus . The sheer illusio Flowers of Dallas adorned with delicate was bateau neckline ony was cerem The organic lace petals. flower adorned First ful held at the beauti h in Shreveport. A Presbyterian Churc ion followed in a recept lovely candle lit of David on the grounds lavish clear tent the night 265. Dancing l clear Tom’s Academy shone in the crysta wife away as the star and married husband by sky, the newly t day surrounded ended their perfec love. and family, friends

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SB REAL ESTATE | Gwendolyn Walker

USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO EDUCATE YOUNG HOMEBUYERS

he coronavirus pandemic has brought new adaptations for life in 2020. As citizens were forced into lockdown in March, life as we know it was flipped upside down. With restrictions, mask mandates, limited distancing guidelines, and shutdowns, people started using social media even more to make life somewhat “normal.” One unexpected, positive side effect of the pandemic is an increase in home sales. More and more real estate agents and mortgage experts are using social media to help educate the public, including millennials and Gen-Z, on the steps to buying a home. In Shreveport/Bossier, numerous real estate companies are utilizing social media to market their listings. And they aren’t stopping there. Through virtual Zoom classes, a buyer can learn how to successfully “flip” a house or learn the ins and outs of becoming a landlord. Matt Stevens and Chris Smith of Titan Property Network, helps clients find their perfect homes, even during the pandemic. “We’ve hosted classes—webinars— via Zoom. From how to buy a house, how to sell a house, how to invest in real estate,” Smith stated. “Because of the pandemic the classes normally conducted in person have been adapted to an online platform. This resulted in our serving more people without [them] taking time off to come in and sit through a class,” Stevens commented.

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Interest rates have hit a historic low within the year, making “no time like the present” the best time to buy or refinance. Because of this, according to investopia.com, millennials are “entering the housing market in greater numbers. “Buyers are taking advantage of the low-interest rates because you don’t know when they [interest rates] are going back up again.” Samantha Bradley of Diamond Realty & Associates said. “Education in real estate is essential because it can bring dispel any misconceptions about real estate and a realtor’s responsibility. Buyers are better able to make wiser decisions during the homebuying process. With just the touch of a button technology has brought us closer to gathering information needed for the homebuying process. Why learn about real estate even if you’re not in the market to buy right now? Real estate is a part of everyday life and, in most cases, it is the biggest transaction a person will make in their lifetime. Buying a home is a huge investment. However, real estate and credit scores are two topics that are not taught in school. Tara Rodgers of GoldBank Mortgage Division in Shreveport believes that education in credit scores and keeping up with debt and expenses are key elements to making the homebuying process easier for everyone involved. Again, technology steps up to make the process of pre-qualifying and applying for a home loan is easier than it was in years past. Tammy Wilson, of Union Home

Mortgage in Bossier City, stated that the application for a loan is available in-person or by going to the mortgage company’s website. Social media users Scott Betley (@thatmortgageguy) and Aviva Sonenrich (@realestatesource) tailored their social media accounts as a learning resource for individuals with very little knowledge about real estate, mortgages and credit scores. They also offer information that a homebuyer should know before signing a contract. “I am a huge follower and supporter of Gary Vaynerchuk, CEO of VaynerMedia. * I really started going hard at content generation, video content about a year-and-a-half ago. I’ve spun off what he has done to relay information about the process,” Betley recalls. “I noticed that the commercial real estate industry was very behind in all things related to the Internet and I started using that to my advantage... people aren’t taught real estate in school and so a lot of people don’t know anything about it,” Sonenrich reflects.

Their best advice for young buyers: Stevens: Buyers can also use an agent when working with a builder. We will see some folks, that haven’t found what they’re looking for and we can connect them with a builder and guide them through that process of building a new home since we can’t find one that is already built.

Smith: What I tell clients when I first meet them is to make three lists: what you love in a home and what you love and want in a house; what you absolutely do not want; things you like but aren’t necessarily deal-breakers. Betley: There are a lot of options out there. From no money down to low credit score options and everything in between. I would implore people to do their research and shop around their different options. Sonenrich: My best advice for buyers is not to let emotions take over or let emotions dictate your actions. But it’s imperative that you make business decisions. Even when you’re buying your own home. Wilson: People need to understand the utilization of credit. Again, how important it is to have credit established, but not to overdo. Rodgers: Do it. You can save so much money buying a house then from renting one. Buying a house is a great financial investment. Bradley: Make sure you get pre-qualified before looking for a home. With pre-qualification, your credit history and your employment history will set the table just right so that they [the lending company] can take the next step. It’s not about what you can pay them this month for a house note. They want to make sure you can make the note for the 30-year term of the mortgage. * https://www.garyvaynerchuk.com

N E E D TO TA L K A B O U T

BUYING OR SELLING?

Contact Samantha Bradley, REALTOR® for more details: 318.205.4151 Diamond Realty & Associates 315 E. Texas Street Bossier City, LA 71111 318.746.0011. Licensed in Louisiana by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission

315 E. Texas St Bossier City, LA 71111 318.703.2770 bakertitleabstract.com

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Shining a Light

Shekinah Academy and Word of God Academy partner to create a safe and loving educational environment for children with special needs.

From the earliest days of Word of God Academy, it has been our vision, and the desire of our hearts, to partner with families of children with special needs. Little did we know that such a remarkable program already existed in our area. We are truly honored to adopt Shekinah Academy into the family of Word of God Ministries. This partnership is an answer to prayer. We are excited about joining with the amazing staff to serve families who face unique educational challenges. Only God could have orchestrated a partnership which will benefit countless lives for years to come. — Pastor James A. McMenis

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ord of God Academy is grounded in the philosophy of Kingdom Education. Over 300 families in the Shreveport/ Bossier area have entrusted them with educating their children from a Biblical Worldview perspective. Yet, they felt they could be doing so much more. “For the past four years, we have been researching the possibilities of expanding our capabilities to include students with special needs. We never felt comfortable that we could find the right person who could take on this responsibility,” said Tim Euler, Head of School. But God! 19 years ago, in the home of Leesa Wallace, class began for a child with special needs. Growing up with a cousin who has Down Syndrome and then later having a son with Spina bifida, Leesa felt an affinity for children with special needs. Leesa knew at an early age that her direction in life would be in the field of special education. That first student was soon joined by another, then another and another. Classes in the kitchen were beginning to grow to an unmanageable size. Leesa and her husband, Paul, enclosed the carport to make

“

God is opening doors & we’re walking through them.”

more room. Soon, even that space became too crowded. Although a local church welcomed them for several years, that location suddenly became unavailable. God stepped in again and made a connection with Leesa and Word of God Academy. With open arms, Word of God Academy welcomed the Shekinah Academy. “God is opening doors and we’re walking through them,” declared Tim Euler. “We formally announced to our church in January of this year that Shekinah Academy is under the umbrella of Word of God Academy. We’re in the process of renovation to accommodate the needs of our newest students. Our desire is to reach as many children as possible with a Biblical Kingdom education.” According to Euler, Leesa Wallace is a community hero who took on what most people would not, or could not. Leesa’s impressive credentials

include an undergraduate in Special Education from the University of Texas, with an endorsement in Severe and Profound Disabilities. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Louisiana Tech University. Leesa is well-equipped to integrate students with special needs into the existing student body at Word of God Academy. Leesa’s first endeavor will be to help the students and faculty at Word of God Academy understand the educational process for children with special needs. She understands the importance of focusing on the person, and not on their special need. And she will create opportunities that will allow everyone to get to know each other. Word of God Academy and Shekinah Academy are a shining example of a puzzle fitting together – just as God planned all along.

James McMenis

Leesa Wallace

Tim Euler SBMAG.NET

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National Sweets MONTH EGG GLAZE: ˆ 1 egg ˆ 2 tablespoons water DIRECTIONS ˇ In a large bowl, dissolve yeast

elieve it or not, the entire month of March is National Sweets Month. Not to be confused with October 14th, the National observance of Dessert Day. It can be a bit perplexing since nowadays any given day of the month is National ‘Something or Other’ Month. We’ve embraced the fact that March is dedicated to not only a St. Patrick’s Day but to our sweet tooth as well. Since we’re half way through the month already, let’s pick up from the middle of March to the grand dessert finale – Easter Sunday. Everyone can agree that Easter Sunday dinner is usually a big deal here in the Bible Belt. Moms and Grandmothers work together to layout a dinner spread worthy of kings. The table wouldn’t be complete without old-fashioned Hot Cross Buns or mouth-watering homemade yeast rolls, or Paska Bread. Paska breads are a traditional element in the Easter holidays of Ukraine, Armenia, Belarus, Romania, Russia, Georgia, Moldova and numerous other countries. In Romania, “Paska” literally means “Easter.” INGREDIENTS ˆ 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast ˆ 1 teaspoon plus 1/3 cup sugar, divided ˆ 4 cups warm water (110° to 115°), divided ˆ 1 cup nonfat dry milk powder ˆ 13-1/2 to 14-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided ˆ 6 eggs, beaten ˆ 1/2 cup butter, melted ˆ 1 tablespoon salt

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and 1 teaspoon sugar in 1 cup warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes. Add remaining water. Beat in the milk powder and 5 cups flour until smooth. Cover and let Sarah Lowder rise in a warm place until bubbly, about 20 minutes. Add eggs, butter, salt and remaining sugar; mix well. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

ˇ Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface;

divide in half and set one portion aside. Divide remaining portion in half; press each portion into a well-greased 10in. springform pan. Divide reserved dough into six balls. Shape each ball into a 30-in. rope; make two braids of three ropes each. Place a braid around the edge of each pan, forming a circle. Trim ends of braids, reserving dough scraps. Pinch ends of braids to seal. Shape scraps into two long thin ropes; form into rosettes or crosses. Place one decoration on the center of each loaf. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.

ˇ In a small bowl, beat egg and water; brush over dough. Bake at 350° for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.

t wouldn’t be Easter without everyone enjoying a sweet dessert. Do you remember those early days of spring, sitting on the porch and enjoying a plate of strawberry short cake topped with homemade whipped cream? Or watching all the children in your family clamoring over beautifully decorated East Egg Cookies. An all-time favorite for marshmallow lovers is Marshmallow Easter Eggs. The combination of the soft and sweet marshmallow and milk chocolate topped with colorful icing will leave your family wanting more.

INGREDIENTS ˆ 25 cups all-purpose flour (about 8 pounds) ˆ 1 large egg ˆ 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin ˆ 1/2 cup cold water ˆ 2 cups sugar ˆ 1 cup light corn syrup, divided ˆ 3/4 cup hot water ˆ 2 teaspoons vanilla extract ˆ 1-pound dark chocolate candy coating, melted ˆ Candy coating disks, multiple colors DIRECTIONS ˇ Spread 7 cups flour in each of three 13x9-in. pans and 4 cups

flour in a 9-in. square pan. Carefully wash the egg in a mild bleach solution (1 teaspoon chlorine bleach to 1 qt. warm water); dry. Press washed egg halfway into the flour to form an impression. Repeat 35 times, 2-in. apart; set aside.

ˇ In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water; set

aside. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, 1/2 cup corn syrup and hot water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, until a candy thermometer reads 238° (soft-ball stage). Remove from the heat; stir in remaining corn syrup.

ˇ Pour into a large bowl. Add reserved gelatin, 1 tablespoon

at a time, beating on high speed until candy is thick and has cooled to lukewarm, about 10 minutes. Beat in vanilla.

ˇ Spoon lukewarm gelatin mixture into egg depressions; dust with flour. Let stand for 3-4 hours or until set.

ˇ Brush excess flour off marshmallow eggs. Dip each egg in

chocolate candy coating. Place flat side down on waxed paper. Let stand until set. Drizzle each colored candy coating over eggs.

Silicone egg molds are available and can be used instead of the flour. If time is not on your side, visiting your local bakery can make Easter Sunday a great deal easier. Specialty breads, Easter morning breakfast sweets (a must before church service), and a multitude of ready-made desserts can easily take the stress of this special day from your shoulders. At Lowder’s Bakery, we’ll have the ovens hot and your special breads and sweets ready for pick up so you can enjoy celebrating and sharing this special day with your loved ones.

NEW

Spring FLAVORS 4019 Fern Avenue, Suite 500 Shreveport, LA

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@lowderbakingco SBMAG.NET

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GOOD TO KNOW WILLIAM JOYCE TO PRODUCE 1ST ANIMATED VERSION OF “THE GREAT GATSBY” Shreveport’s Academy Award-Winning filmmaker, writer, and illustrator William Joyce is teaming with an impressive group of industry veterans including novelist, screenwriter, and illustrator Brian Selznick and leading anMovie poster for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s imation studio DNEG 1925 classic, “The Great Gatsby.” Feature Animation to produce the first animated version of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 1925 jazz age classic, The Great Gatsby. Joyce, who wrote and directed the Academy Award-Winning animated short, “The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore,” will direct the feature, based on a script written by Selznick, who wrote and illustrated the book The Invention of Hugo Cabret, on which Martin Scorsese’s 2011 film Hugo was based. Producer Michael Siegel and DNEG Senior VP of Creative Production David Prescott join Joyce as producers. “Gatsby continues to cast a powerful spell over readers unlike any other book in American letters. Much of the power of Gatsby comes from the enchantment of Fitzgerald’s prose. He created a vivid dreamscape that, to some degree, has eluded filmmakers since the silent era. The previous film versions were constrained by live action, but innovative animation could finally realize the elusive quality of the novel,” says Joyce. Joyce, Selznick, and DNEG are currently working on an animated short titled, Mr. Spam Gets a New Hat, due to premier in the summer of 2021. This short film incorporates revolutionary new techniques, using Unreal Engine technology to push the boundaries of what real-time game engine technology can bring to production feature animation. The team plans to use the same techniques, methodologies and workflows to produce The Great Gatsby. DNEG Sr. V.P. Prescott believes that the revolutionary style of animation and imagery that this team is currently using for Mr. Spam Gets A New Hat is perfect for creating “The Great Gatsby.” “We are in the perfect time for an animated Gatsby,” says Prescott. “Viewers of all ages are embracing animation as another way to experience different stories. Bill and I have discussed ideal stories to bring to the screen and I really do feel that ‘The Great Gatsby’ is one such story.” Selznick believes the rich wonderland of William Joyce’s vision is a brilliant match for the shimmering prose of F. Scott Fitzgerald. “When Bill told me about his dream of making Gatsby into an animated movie, I imme-

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diately understood what a magical synthesis this could be.” Joyce began his film career on Toy Story and has since been a producer, screenwriter, and production designer on both animation and live-action. In 2009, he founded Moonbot Studios, a multimedia storytelling company producing books, apps, films and video games. Moonbot created a number of animated shorts, mobile apps, commercials and other projects, earning numerous Emmy, Annie, Cannes, and Clio awards. The studio won an Academy Award for its 2012 animated short, The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore, and also earned accolades for its 2013 animated short film and mobile game, The Scarecrow, for Chipotle Mexican Grill. Joyce has written and illustrated 50 bestselling children’s books and novels, which have been translated into over 40 languages. His feature films, all based on his books, include Epic, Rise of the Guardians, Robots, and Meet the Robinsons. His television series include the groundbreaking Rolie Polie Olie, for which je was creator and showrunner. Bill was named by Newsweek magazine as “One of the 100 People to Watch in the New Millennium.” About Brian Selznick Brian Selznick is an American illustrator and writer best known as the writer of “The Invention of Hugo Cabret” (2007), “The Marvels” (2015) and “Wonderstruck” (2011). He won the 2008 Caldecott Medal for U.S. picture book illustration recognizing “The Invention of Hugo Cabret.” He is also known for illustrating children’s books, such as the covers of Scholastic’s 20th-anniversary editions of the “Harry Potter” series. About DNEG DNEG is one of the world’s leading visual effects and animation companies for feature film and television, with studios in London, Vancouver, Montréal, Los Angeles, Mumbai, Chennai, and Chandigarh. DNEG has won five Oscars for ‘Best VFX’ in the last ten years, five BAFTA Awards, two Emmy Awards, and 11 Visual Effects Society Awards for visual effects work on shows including “First Man,” “Chernobyl,” “Blade Runner 2049,” “Dunkirk,” “Ex Machina,” “Interstellar,” “Inception,” and “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Pt 2.” Projects currently in production at DNEG include the movies “The Matrix 4,” “Dune,” “Uncharted,” and “F9: The Fast Saga;” TV shows including “Jupiter’s Legacy,” “Shadow and Bone,” ”The Wheel of Time,” and “The Irregulars.” DNEG Feature Animation’s projects include “Ron’s Gone Wrong” (Disney) and “Under The Boardwalk” (Paramount), among other projects. Vivian Andrews named 2021 International President/CEO of Women’s International Network of Utility Professionals Vivian Andrews, President of La Ve’ Consulting, has

GOOD TO KNOW been named as the 2021 International President/CEO of Women’s International Network of Utility Professionals, an organization committed to recognizing and developing women in the utility industry and allied fields. The Shreveport, Louisiana, resident previously served as the organization’s Vice President and member of its international board. Andrews brings over 45 years of experience in operations, finance and human resources to her role. Through La Ve’, Andrews has provided human resources consulting services for the past 10 years. Previously, she worked at American Electric Power for over 36 years, utilizing skills including communications, training, and regulatory compliance. A member of WiNUP since 2007, Andrews previously chaired the organization’s ArkLaTex Chapter. She is currently chairing WiNUP’s 2022 International Conference Committee. Andrews received her MBA from Louisiana Tech University. She has been married to husband, Winzer for 36 years and has four adult children. LSUS RANKED FIRST IN THE NATION AGAIN AMONG THE TOP 50 MBA PROGRAMS Shreveport, LA--LSU Shreveport has been recognized as first in the nation for the second year in a row on a top 50 MBA programs list. This 2021 recognition as the #1 MBA program by Intelligent.com joins previous MBA acknowledgements for outstanding MBA programs in Entrepreneurship, Project Management, Finance, Human Resource Management, and Hospitality. Intelligent.com evaluated only non-profit universities based on accreditation and flexibility. Programs were assessed on program strength, student readiness, return on investment, cost, and student engagement. Universities are awarded a score of 0 to 100. LSUS scored 99.82 and was labeled as the “Intelligent Pick”. Intelligent.com also recognized the MBA Entrepreneurship program as second and the Project Management program as sixth among similar programs evaluated. Nancy Albers, Dean of the College of Business, stated “We are thrilled to see our rigorous and accelerated MBA program recognized as first in the nation on the Intelligent.com elite list of top 50 MBA programs. It is rewarding to be recognized with a 99.82 score, which demonstrates high marks in

all areas of evaluation. LSUS has embraced a mission of making high quality, relevant graduate education accessible, affordable, and achievable for business students. We define quality in terms of outcomes and are pleased that we can provide successful outcomes at an affordable price.” The online MBA program at LSU Shreveport is consistently honored as one of the most affordable AACSB accredited programs across the nation. An MBA student at LSU Shreveport receives a graduate education focused on quality, innovation, and engagement. Areas of concentration include Accounting, Data Analytics, Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise, Finance, General Business, Hospitality and Casino Management, Human Resource Management, International Business, Marketing, and Project Management. “Our MBA program is relevant for preparing students for their careers and offers the educational requirements for a number of industry certifications. The MBA degree is an excellent value for students seeking an accredited, engaging, and flexible program that can be completed in as few as 10 months,” said Tami Knotts, Associate Dean and MBA Director. The online MBA is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Only five percent of all business schools worldwide meet the AACSB International’s demanding standards. To see the ratings from Intelligent.com rankings, click

Welcomes

Lindsey T. Brown, MD

FAMILY MEDICINE Board Certified – American Board of Family Medicine establishing

1001 Lackland Blvd., Suite 120 Benton, LA 71006

(318) 935-1522 WKPalmettoFamilyPractice.com

Dr. Brown accepts new patients and most insurance plans. SBMAG.NET

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GOOD TO KNOW here. For more information about the MBA program at LSUS, visit LSUS Online. CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center Recognized for Excellence with ACC Transcatheter Valve Certification Hospital developed processes to standardize patient care, increase quality measurement Shreveport, Louisiana, Feb. 5, 2021 – CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System kicked off American Heart Month with a celebratory certification announcement by the American College of Cardiology. CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center received recognition for its demonstrated expertise and commitment in treating patients receiving transcatheter valve repair and replacement procedures. “Being recognized for excellence in performing the TAVR procedure is a testament to the institutional commitment by CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center and our commitment to meet the individual needs of our cardiovascular patients. We are demonstrating how a collaborative effort between cardiologists and heart surgeons provides forward-thinking, advanced heart care and results in exceptional patient outcomes,” said Rodney Reeves, M.D., interventional cardiologist, CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center. CHRISTUS Highland was awarded Transcatheter Valve Certification in January based on evaluation of the staff’s ability to meet standards for multidisciplinary teams, formalized training, shared decision-making and registry performance. “This procedure is a true lifesaver. There is nothing more self-evident than seeing someone with debilitating symptoms who receives the TAVR valve, up the next day walking around feeling great with a renewed sense of energy and stamina. Every patient has a unique set of circumstances and we work together to provide a multidisciplinary approach to the therapy they need,” said John Evans, M.D., cardiothoracic surgeon, CHRISTUS Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery. The ACC’s Transcatheter Valve Accreditation is an external review and certification process that pairs with established national clinical databases to monitor patient safety and real-world databases such as the STS/ ACC TVT Registry is required for hospitals interested in achieving Transcatheter Valve Certification. “CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center has demonstrated its commitment to providing Northwest Louisiana with excellent heart care,” said Phillip D. Levy, M.D., FACC, chair of the ACC Accreditation Management Board. “ACC Accreditation Services is proud to award CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center with Transcatheter Valve Certification.” The certification uses established national clinical measures to support clinical decisions and links process improvement to patient outcomes. Hospitals that achieve

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Transcatheter Valve Certification learn best practices for implementing evidence-based medicine to support patient- centered decision making and can track key performance metrics to better identify opportunities for improvement. “The use of the TAVR procedure in our array of treatment options really speaks to the world- class continuum of care available for heart patients in Northwest Louisiana,” said Steen Trawick, M.D., Chief Executive Officer and Chief Medical Officer, CHRISTUS Shreveport- Bossier Health System. “Accreditation is how we can communicate to our community the value we place on excellent patient care. The ACC offers U.S. and international hospitals like CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center access to a comprehensive suite of cardiac accreditation services designed to optimize patient outcomes and improve hospital financial performance. These services are focused on all aspects of cardiac care, including transcatheter valve therapies. For more information about ACC Accreditation Services, visit accreditation.acc.org, or call toll-free 1-877-271-4176. Willis-Knighton sponsors Light the Night to Mark Pandemic’s One-Year Anniversary March marks one year since the first case of COVID-19 in Louisiana was recorded. Willis-Knighton Health System invites the community to join in a monthlong recognition and remembrance event, Light the Night for COVID. As a visible sign of support Willis-Knighton employees and community participants are asked to turn on a light at their home each night during March as a sign of respect and hope. “The pandemic has altered who we are, what we do and how we do it. It has created unforeseen challenges and changes throughout our community that will forever change us,” says Renee McCuller, Willis-Knighton senior vice president. “Loss has touched everyone. We’ve lost loved ones, patients, gatherings, seeing faces and smiles. There’s been a loss of light in our lives. Here we are one year in, resilient but recognizing we are now different. Some of us are stronger, others are struggling. No matter where we are though, we are bound together by faith and

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hope. That light is returning. Light supports the healing we long for.” Yard signs to support Light the Night are available from Sign It, whose owner, John Stephens, lost his childhood friend to the virus. Several designs are available from Sign It at gocustomstore.com/LightTheNight. The Centenary College Choir, under the direction of David Hobson, has recorded a choral benediction for Light the Night that will be shared on Willis-Knighton social media and YouTube. Light the Night activities can be shared using the hashtag #wklightthenight OCHSNER LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT NAMES VALERIE WELCH CHIEF MEDICAL INFORMATION OFFICER

The Bossier Arts Council is proud to present: “She’s Teaching Me” by Deanna Glaze ( featuring Shelby Glaze) April 1st, 2021 until May 29th, 2021 Deanna Glaze grew up in Shreveport, LA where she was a student in the first Talented Arts Program in Caddo Parish. She was also in an after-school program called Project Talent. In 2008 Deanna received her BFA in graphic design and painting at The Memphis College of Art. She worked as a graphic designer from 2008-2014. She also taught pottery and ran the art department at Target House in Memphis, TN. Painting was more of a personal escape in her spare time at her home studio. In October 2014 she began teaching in the Talented Arts Program in Bossier Parish. Deanna currently lives in Doyline, LA where she is married to her husband Toby. They have one daughter, Shelby and a miniature schnauzer, Elfie Mae. The Opening Reception will be held on Friday, April 9th from 6pm - 8pm at the Bossier Arts Council located at 630 Barksdale Boulevard, Bossier City, LA 71111.

Valerie Lockhart Welch, MD has been named Chief Medical Information Officer for Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport. Dr. Welch, a Shreveport native, is board-certified in anatomic and clinical pathology and clinical informatics. She earned her undergraduate degree at Emory University and her medical doctorate at LSU Health Shreveport – School of Medicine. Dr. Welch completed her anatomic and clinical pathology residency at LSU Health Shreveport where she served as Chief Resident. Following competition of her two-year clinical informatics fellowship at Geisinger in Danville, Pa, Dr. Welch returned to her hometown of Shreveport joining Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport.

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EATS

Shreveport/Bossier Metropolitan area offers cuisine from around the world, marked with our hometown taste. Originality is at its peak with the variety of local chefs this area has to offer. SB Magazine wants to highlight our local talent and give a big “merci beaucoup” to the restaurants, eateries, caterers, delis, bakeries, pop ups, food trucks, dessert bars, ice cream shoppes, and whatever else pleases our palettes. Every month, SB will list local restaurants in our new, featured Restaurant Guide. Let’s support local and treat ourselves while we do it! For More Information call Keyle Cavalier at 318.221.7264 ext. 12

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SB LIVING | becky cunningham

ning. Originating in France, Potagers were created out of necessity for growing fruits, herbs, and vegetables for food and medicinal purposes. However, Potagers have many other additional perks! The month of March is a perfect time here in Louisiana to get your Potager planned out and prepped. If you are a beginner gardener, simply start small. A large bucket or wooden barrel is a great size to grow a generous Potager. If space provides, a raised garden area is a wonderful way to grow herbs and veggies as well. These plants will need at least 6 hours of sun each day, and good drainage is a must. I find that herbs are easy to grow here in the South. Several herbs that grow well in our hot, humid zone are rosemary, thyme, lavender, curry, mint, sage, parsley, and basil. Plant the taller herbs (like rosemary) toward the back of the space and shorter herbs (such as thyme) in the front. Be sure to give approximately ten to twelve inches of space around each plant for growth as they develop. There is no need to plant vegetables separately. Potagers are known for the in-

perksofa

potager

iscovering the benefits of the Potager, or “kitchen garden” is a joyful experience. Over the last several years, I have tried my hand at several herbs and vegetables in a small, raised garden bed right outside of our back door- just Becky Cunningham steps away from the kitchen. This area grows in abundance during warmer months, offering a source of culinary options for meal prep each eve-

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termingling of all the culinary plants together. This past fall, we experimented with Swiss Chard, and placed it right between the rosemary and sage. All the colors together showed off beautifully. Several vegetables that grow well in our zone are tomatoes, zucchini, squash, peppers and cucumbers. Look for a nutrient rich soil with organic fertilizers to maximize growth. Potagers are fairly low in maintenance… water daily and weed or prune at least twice weekly. The perks of your Potager begin to flourish as the plants start to grow. Not only cost-effective, dried herb bundles look beautiful displayed during spring and summer. Be sure to wash herb clippings before hanging to dry or adding to meals. Dried herbs add a robust flavor to many dishes, and fresh herbs like rosemary and oregano highlight a pot roast or spaghetti. Herbal teas make a wonderful afternoon treat. Add a sprig of fresh mint or lavender to your hot lemon tea. During the hot summer months, herbs are wonderful for infused waters. Add strawberries with mint, or watermelon with rosemary… creating a whole new refreshing drink! One of my favorite ways to enjoy the fresh herbs is to clip various sprigs for an herb bouquet; which smells amazing and makes a great gift for a neighbor. Create your own homemade salad dressing or vinaigrette with dried herbs and olive oils. If you want to try a new craft…simply clip bundles of herbs and attach each one to a wreath form. Continue in a circular pattern until the form is covered-and you have an herb wreath to hang on a door! In addition, the ideas are endless with all the vegetables! Homemade salsa, fresh salads, roasted veggie dishes…just imagine how much money can be saved with one small Potager! Our area offers a wide variety of herbs, fruits, and vegetables at surrounding local nurseries. Check their stock early in March to have first pick at all the varieties. Most of my Potager plants are from Ellis Home and Garden or Garrison’s Home and Garden. Both nurseries have healthy, zone friendly plants that grow well and withstand our hot summers. You will also find a beautiful assortment of planters, garden tools, and accessories for all garden needs. Most of all, the associates can help with valuable garden advice and tips on maintaining a bountiful Potager. With a little effort and earth, you can be enjoying all the perks of a Potager before summer arrives! I would be honored for you to join me as I share daily home and garden tips over on Instagram @becky. cunningham.home SBMAG.NET

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by ursula brantley

NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT equal pay or educating women and girls on the importance of being effective leaders, the YWCA has been a driving force for women’s liberation.

n 1858, the YWCA was created to be a voice for women and girls across the United States. They are advocates for women’s rights and work daily to educate the next generation of way makers. Their mission has been and continues to be eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. They have 25 million members in 125 countries and are touching over 2 million lives from 1,300 stateside locations. Whether it is lobbying for

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Since 1925, YWCA Northwest Louisiana has been a beacon of light for an overwhelming number of women, girls, and senior women in our area. They offer a variety of programs geared towards bring out the best of the females they are meant to service. Their LEAD Program was designed to give at-risk girls the opportunity to be part of leadership training groups and workshops in schools and other locations across the city. LEAD allows pre-teen and teen girls to meet bi-weekly to focus on leadership, empowerment, and development through topics such as self-respect, goal setting, healthy relationships, and others. The YWCA is also committed to helping those women and girls who have experienced different levels of trauma. They offer Trauma Counseling for any girl or woman who has been a victim of a crime. They also offer Young Women Choosing Action which is a program that helps rebuild girls 13-19 after experiencing trauma. They

are taught healthy coping mechanisms like Yoga and other positive methods that will help them grow and thrive despite the cards they have been dealt. In November 2018, the YWCA Northwest Louisiana opened the doors to their thrift shop Fab Finds. The shop is located on Kings Hwy next to the legendary Strawn’s Eat Shop, but originally opened in Mall St. Vincent with a full ribbon cutting and fashion show. The shop consists of gently used items that have been donated by members of the community for resale. All the proceeds from the shop go right back into the YWCA. Being that the merchandise is donated by the community, you never know what amazing things you will find for sale. They accept women and children’s clothing and shoes, purses, jewelry, scarves, hats, home décor, receive, examine, and sort through the donated items. For the clothing items that are not in the best condition, the YWCA has a recycling program so that nothing goes to waste when it comes to those in need.

housewares, antiques, artwork, and furniture six days a week. The purpose of the shop is to generate as much for the organization as possible which means there are not

many paid employees helping with the shop’s operation. Aside from a paid management position, the shop is completely volunteer run. Volunteers come out daily to help

As long as there are women and girls that need assistance, the YWCA will be right there to lend a helping hand and a listening ear. They have transformed the lives of thousands of women and girls in our area and many of those females were able to help someone else all because of the love and care they received from YWCA Northwest Louisiana. What might seem too small could mean the world to someone who is lacking or longing.

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EYE ON SB | debbie henry

Gautreau Gallery & Interiors 1. DeAnn Dominick and Kelli DeFatta 2. Gautreau Gallery & Interiors owner Laurie and Brandon Gautreau with family Mary Hays, Graham and Harrison

Bleu Med Spa Ribbon Cutting

Art Reception for Cathy Cobb & BAC Interns 1. Artist Alex Richardson 2. Gil Salcedo and Bailey Harris 3. Artist Timothy Keys with his family

Sara Vergis, Tiffany Theriot, and Mary Claire Elgin

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

THINK BIG. 120

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THINK SMALL. We

print it ALL

EYE ON SB 1

3 3

Bossier Night Market 1. Amy Bridges with AnneMarie 2. K.K. and Larry Miller with Susan and Mike Jean 3. Jerry and Terry Wynn with Maci 4. Ronnie and Melody Burgess 5. Christy and Jim Hay 1

Shreveport Aquarium Paddlefish Festival

1. Shreveport Aquarium General Manager Destiny Garcia 2. Justin, Gunner and Heather Hill 3. Henry and Rebecca Leineweber with children Nora and Gwen Leineweber and nephew Leo Miller 4. Ellen and Jack Miller 5. Buddy and Gabby Duke with Wesley and Lily 3

Second Line Band - Mardi Gras “Do Over”

1. Beau Hays and Chef Peanut 2. Elizabeth Hazen with Anna and Stella May Harrison 3. Shreveport Second Line Brass Band with Robert Trudeau

Red River Mardi Gras Brunch

1. Keith and Traci Keen 2. Tiffany and Donovan Patrick Henry 3. Glen Haddock and Marvin Crane 4. Terri and Hank Ford 5. Joanie Nerrettig, Roberto Guzman and Shelia Harkey SBMAG.NET

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Supplies:

˴ Water Balloons ˴ Yarn & Scissors ˴ Glue (just general purpose, it

doesn’t need to be anything fancy)

˴ Newspaper for your work surface ˴ Bowl for your glue mix – something disposable is easiest!

Instructions:

˴ Blow up your water balloons (small balloons will

YARN EGGS

Easter is here! Our March craft is a kid-friendly project (as long as you’re cool with your kids making a mess). It only takes a few supplies – and if you already have yarn, then it hardly costs a thing! You can make these yarn eggs in any color to match your Easter decor. While the crafting takes about an hour for these, you’ll have 24 hours of drying time, so factor that in when you get started.

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˴ ˴

also work) and cut some 8-10 foot lengths of yarn or embroidery floss. Each water balloon will take 25-30 feet of yarn. Three long pieces between 8-10 feet each worked the best. You may want to cut them down even shorter if you have kids, but that’s up to you! Mix 2 parts glue to 1 part water. Or go the easy route and use Modge Podge. For 6 eggs use around 4 oz. glue, just to give you an idea how much you’ll need. Do this in a disposable bowl. Dip a strand of yarn into the bowl. Soak it completely, and then pull it out of the bowl, squeezing the excess from the yarn as you go. Now, just start wrapping your egg. There’s no right or wrong way to do this. The more times your yarn intersects and crosses over itself, the stronger your egg will be when it dries. When they feel firm and dry remove the balloon. Cut a small hole. The balloon will deflate and pull away from the inside of your egg, and you can just pull it out through one of the holes.

inspiring women 2021

sbmag’s

It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference Margaret Hamilton that you have lived and lived well.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Our history books are brimming with the names of women through the centuries who have inspired us. Exceptional women like Helen Keller. Courageous women such as Rosa Parks, Malala Yousafzai or Amelia Earhart. These are names we are all familiar with. Other memorable ladies who are less well-known Margaret Hamilton also deserve a place in our history. Women like Margaret Hamilton without whom the moon would not have been reached. She’s the gal that wrote the codes for all the Apollo missions. Go back further to WWII as Hedy Lamarr, the gorgeous Hollywood actress, along with composer George Antheil, developed a secret communication system that scrambled radio frequencies. This kept the Axis Powers from decoding Allied messages and prevented the tracking of torpedoes. (She never got a dime for that invention which was not used until the 60’s. Recognition of her efforts finally came in 1997.)

Gwendolyn Brooks

Have you ever heard of Vigdis Finnbogadottir? She was the 4th President of Iceland and is known for being the world’s first dem-

ocratically directly elected female president, and the longest serving female head of state. She helped paved the way for female leaders all over the world. Her motto is ‘Never let the women down’. Love this! How about Gertrude Ederle the first woman to swim the English Channel. Or Gwendolyn Brooks, the first African American woman to win a Pulitzer Prize for her book of poetry Annie Allen. These are all names that don’t readily roll off your tongue.

We can cite pages and pages of women who have made contributions to our society who may never become household names and probably wouldn’t expect to be so recognized. These are the women who are selfless in their missions. Who willingly made personal sacrifices to help other people. Women who volunteer their time and energy for worthwhile causes. Who give more than they take. We have these types of women living among us right here in Shreveport and Bossier City. They are nurses, teachers, health care workers and store clerks. They are our mothers, our mentors and our role models. Look around you and you’ll spot them. As we begin this new year, we are committed to building stronger relationships within our community by focusing on the power of kindness. We are launching a platform that allows you to share your stories about someone who has moved you by their actions. You will be able to nominate inspiring women who have touched your life or that you know has Malala Yousafzai worked tirelessly to help others. Women who are willing to lead without having a title attached to their name. Who will always lift people up and are ready to do the work that matters. In a paragraph or two, tell us about your nominee or nominees and why you feel they deserves more recognition for what they are doing. Each month we will highlight one woman and, at the end of the year, our readers can vote on the SB Magazine’s Inspiring Woman of the Year. Submit your nominees to editor@sbmag.net. No one should seek their own good, but the good of others. 1 Corinthians 10:24 SBMAG.NET

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by keyle cavalier | SB RECIPE

creamy chicken & MACARONI

he days may be warming up a little but our nights can still hold a bit of a chill. SB Recipes features a perfect blend of vegies, chicken and cheese that will add a bit of warmth on those crisp nights – a delightful alternative to chili.

Ingredients • • • • • • • •

SOUP

2 cups cooked chicken, chopped ¾ cup chopped celery 16-oz pkg. frozen mixed vegetables 2 T. dried parsley, or to taste 2 cups chicken broth 2 cubes chicken bouillon 10-3/4 oz. can cream of chicken soup 10-oz. pkg. frozen macaroni & cheese dinner

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients except macaroni & cheese dinner in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on low setting for 4 hours. Add frozen macaroni & cheese. Cover and cook for an additional 2 hours on low setting, stirring occasionally. Makes 8 servings. SBMAG.NET

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LUXE

MORTLACH 25 $1,115.99

Speyside, Scotland - The nose begins with vanilla, pineapple, lemon zest, and a hint of tobacco followed by notes of crushed almonds and light oak. The palate consists of dark chocolate, baking spices, and dried fruit. The finish is sweet with cocoa and oak spice. Cuban Liquor 928 Pierremont Rd Shreveport, LA 71106 318-869-1236 cubanliquor.com

PERRIER-JOUET BELLE EPOQUE BRUT

$150.00

A very complex and toasty nose with nicely cut, autolytic, reductive kick that adds flinty notes to the lemons and pink grapefruit, as well as fresh, lightly spiced pastry. The palate has a super fluid and attractively fresh feel with a bold, sweetly fruited core.

KATHRYN HALL 2016 NAPA VALLEY CAB SAV

$189.99

Sashays out of the glass with beguiling notions of warm black and red currants, fresh blackberries, black raspberries, and boysenberries with touches of rose hip tea, forest floor, pencil shavings, and violets. 126

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Unplug & Play

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge Discover our first pure electric compact SUV – designed for the city and the rest of the world. Enjoy the freedom of electric driving with a projected range of up to 208 miles. When needed, easily top up at home or at work – or fast-charge from zero to 80% in around 40 minutes.* Take your seat, select gear and go – there’s no start button.

Starting at $53,990 MSRP

1221 E. Bert Kouns Industrial Loop, Suite B, Shreveport, LA 71105 | Sales: (318) 231-4204 | Service: (318) 231-4569 | www.holmesvolvocars.com XC40 Recharge shown in Crystal White Metallic paint with optional equipment shown. MSRP excludes all options, taxes, title, registration, transportation charges and dealer prep. Options, model availability and actual dealer price may vary. *This is an electric vehicle. Since electricity is not measured in gallons, a conversion factor is used to translate the fuel economy into miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent (MPGe). EPA-estimated 85 city/72 highway/ 79 combined MPGe. Use for comparison purposes only. Your MPGe will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your SBMAG.NET | MAR CH 2021 127 vehicle battery-package/condition, and other factors.

HEALTHCARE PROGRESS FOR THE COMMUNITY

chsner LSU Health Shreveport became part of the North Louisiana community in October 2018 with a commitment to increase access to high-quality healthcare; to invest in its people, facilities, equipment and technology; and, most importantly, to improve the health and wellness of the people of Shreveport, Bossier City, Monroe and the surrounding areas. Since 2018, Ochsner LSU Health has remained dedicated to this commitment, even through a worldwide pandemic by opening new locations, expanding services and access to care, investing in new equipment, and growing and diversifying its team. The Ochsner LSU Health providers, both seasoned and new, have all seen these changes firsthand. Some offered their own insight into the progress that has been made in just two years.

PICTURED: DR. MIKE SEWELL

“We’ve had a significant number of improvements for the neurosurgery department, particularly in the operating rooms. Purchases of new microscopes and navigation systems help us take care of our patients in a state-of-the art manner.” •

Dr. Christina Notarianni, Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery

“With the beginning of the partnership in 2018, we partnered with a health system that has the resources and expertise to make a transition so that we could be all we could be. There has been a significant upgrade in the tools that we have to take care of our patients.” •

Dr. Robert “Bob” Walter, Chief of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine

“The community now has another option in healthcare where they can receive expeditious care by top-notch healthcare professionals with the very best equipment.” •

Dr. Jacquelyn Bowers, Director of Emergency Services

“The biggest improvement that I’ve seen since working at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport is the morale among the staff and physicians. Ochsner brought a whole new mindset: a new way of doing things and looking at things, and everyone can feel that. Everyone is excited about the way the hospital is run. It’s a patientfriendly and employee-friendly environment.” •

Dr. Mike Sewell, Medical Director for the Hospitalist Program

“Having been at Ochsner LSU Health for many years, one of the biggest changes I’ve noticed is that patients come first. No matter what we need to do to care for a patient, our leadership will make it so.” •

PICTURED: DR. CHRISTINA NOTARIANNI

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Dr. Laurie Grier, Medical Director of Quality

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