Tres Bella Magazine February/March

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Life is Beautiful!

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013

The

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History Pictured: Carolyn Williams gives insight into our nation’s past .

Tres Bella Magazine 1493 Frenchman’s Bend Road Monroe, LA 71203

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10 YEARS

OF GOING RED & SAVING LIVES February 21st at 5:30 PM West Monroe Convention Center This fun-filled annual event brings women of the community together to promote the Go Red For Women movement. The movement plays a leading role in providing women with the tools they need to lead heart-healthy lives. It challenges women to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk.

• Raffle and auction including designer handbags, vacation packages, spa packages and more • Red wine and heart-healthy hors d’oeuvres • Become a sponsor or purchase tickets: (318) 387-9274

Keynote Speaker: Lauren Thom Lauren Thom is a New Orleans native and single mother of three who started a wildly successful New Orleans-inspired shirt line called Fleurty Girl. Her shirts are worn all over the world by people who want a piece of New Orleans nostalgia wherever they go.

Also Featuring: Jessica M. Martinez

Open Hearts Presenter

Cindy McCain

Special Video Appearance

Proud supporter of Go Red for Women

Cause Sponsor:

877-726-WELL | www.GRMC.com

Celebrating 10 Years of Going Red American Heart Association – Go Red for Women®

Go Red for Women® Declaration

We believe in the power of a woman’s heart – the power to love, the strength to fight and the will to overcome.

But there is a force that threatens our hearts and is killing our mothers, sisters, daughters and friends.

We Go Red For Women who are rocked by a diagnosis and struggling through treatment, so they may emerge victorious to embrace life.

We Go Red For Women who touched so many lives before they lost their own.

We Go Red For Women because it’s time to put our health first.

We Go Red For Women because no one should fight alone.

For each other, we are a hand to hold, a shoulder to cry on, a backbone that always stays strong.

When we Go Red For Women, we step up whenever and wherever so that every woman may live.

And we will never stop until this fight is won. Because the power of a woman’s heart is the difference between life and death.

Together, we Go Red For Women.

About Go Red For Women ®

Go Red For Women encourages awareness of the issue of women and heart disease, and also action to save more lives. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power women have to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them the tools they need to lead a heart healthy life.

Funds raised by Go Red For Women activities also support research to discover scientific knowledge about heart health. We turn this science into materials and tools that healthcare providers and decision- makers can use to help women.

In 2010, the American Heart Association set a strategic goal of reducing death and disability from cardiovascular disease and strokes by 20% while improving the cardiovascular health of all Americans by 20% by the year 2020.

Celebrating 10 Years of Going Red – Annual Fundraising Event We encourage you to mark your calendar and make plans to attend our Northeast Louisiana Go Red For Women annual fundraising event, on Thursday, February 21st at the West Monroe Convention Center. This year’s event “Celebrating 10 Years of Going Red” will be an exciting night filled with festive fellowship, heavy hors d’oeuvres and red wine pairings. Once again, we will have the much anticipated “Louis Vuitton Red Purse” Raffle and Silent Auction full of fabulous prizes donated by numerous local businesses. Guests will dine on delicious Heart Healthy cuisine and enjoy samplings of red wine. Guests can also participate in the Go Red for Women Red Wine Pull and Split the Pot. Members of the Circle of Red and Red Tie Society will be introduced and recognized. Special guests will include keynote speaker, Lauren Thom, New Orleans native and founder of Fleurty Girl fashion line, and 3-time openheart surgery survivor, Jessica M. Martinez. Cindy McCain, wife of U.S. Senator John McCain will also make a personal video appearance.

For more information about attending or becoming a sponsor, call Niki Myers Regional Director of the American Heart Association at (318) 834-1874, or by email at niki.myers@heart.org

Northeast Louisiana Go Red Executive Leadership Team (Standing left to right) Alvina Thomas, Leigh Story, Janet White, Sharon McClain, Niki Myers, Linda Carter, Melissa Epler (Seated left to right) Elaine Coleman, Christine Woods, Kathy Roberts, Sherry Shockly, Alberta Careen Not Shown: Darlene Smith, Lori Casen, Lisa Bradley, Nita Ford, Charlene Jackson, Janice Siguar, Marilyn Koepke, Dr. Florencetta Gibson

From the

publisher

Downtown Connection

By Michael Echols

Hello 2013! It seems as though we have just taken down the Christmas decorations and Mardi Gras and Easter are upon us. How quickly time zips by!

www.Facebook.com/michaelechols With the new year under way there is a great deal happening in our downtowns.

Recently Rain the Spa and Salon opened to standing room only crowds filling the new urban chic hotspot on the corner of 4th and Desiard. The vision of owner James & Holly McCready truly brought new light into a dark old building formerly Willies BBQ. On the food and beverage front, right on the river, River and Rail Cantina is getting closer to its opening date which I hear is in February or March. Bacco our only downtown Italian restaurant continues to thrive in Washington Plaza. They have great authentic Italian food. Cotton and the Warehouse continue to create great meals. Coffee keeps brewing at St. John Pharmacy on St. John Street. Some say the cappuccino is the best they have had.

On the development front there are a number of other buildings under construction in the downtown area including new housing, more restaurants and retail shops. The word on the street is that some larger companies are now considering downtown a hot spot to put employees because of the art crawls, food options (here and coming) as well as a great place to be able to walk around.

Vantage is breaking ground on redeveloping their ball rooms and 11th floor. Many good things are in store for those projects and the downtown community.

The fall was a great time to kick off the River Market. From all accounts it was a huge success. Congrats to Myra Akers and Adriane LaFrance for all their hard work. The spring opening of the market is highly anticipated by many. You can expect to buy all those great local products again starting in early spring. For more information on the River Market visit www.downtownrivermarket.com.

Thanks to all who are supporting the redevelopment of the downtown area. You can support the downtown transformation from a volunteer standpoint by becoming a member of the Monroe Renaissance the 501c3 organization that supports the effort to better downtown Monroe through fundraising and volunteer efforts. (www.facebook.com/monroerenaissance) Both Monroe and West Monroe have a great deal going on from retail, restaurants and redevelopment. If you want to know how you can be involved, write me at my Facebook link above. Cheers!

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Tres’Bella completes her first year of issues! Our “baby” is starting to walk. We have covered a variety of topics throughout the past year as we have introduced familiar surroundings to you through new eyes. The best thing about beginning a new year is the anticipation of what is to come. We hope that you have found the stories brought to you by our “local” writers to be informative, interesting as well as entertaining.

Carolyn Clampit Owner/Publisher

Please remember to support our advertisers that make this publication possible.

Let the good times roll!

I would also like to thank the writers who provide such timely and interesting articles

Carolyn

Trés Bella magazine is published by and is the property of

CC Publishing Monroe, LA

Visit us at www.tresbellamag.net Trés Bella Magazine makes every effort to provide accurate information in advertising and editorial content, however, does not make any claims as to accuracy of information provided by advertisers or editorial contributors and accepts no responsibility or liability for inaccurate information

For information on how to submit story ideas, concerns or information on how to advertise, please contact

Carolyn Clampit 318-372-2709 tresbellamag@yahoo.com

Carolyn Angela Blake .............................................................. EDITOR B.A. Tripi ........................................................ The Quilted History Linda Campbell ....................................................... Polotics - R - Us andi holifield ............................................. Taking Responsibility Angie O’Pry ......................................................................... Ask Angie BILL DYE .................................................. Swimming with the Sharks Kay king .................................... Making a Difference in Morehouse E. Orum Young ........................................................ Today in History Mark sanders ........................................................... Niven Morgan Mark sanders ...................................The Delta Gentleman Speaks

MARK SANDERS ............................................................... Bella Cucina Dr. R. McIntyre Bridges .............................. Breast Augmentation dr. Mark Napoli .......................................... Getting Heart Healthy Elisabeth Poetker ...................................................... Music and Me rachael foust ...................................................... Krewe of Janus J. Michael Inzini .......................... Are Your Assets at Risk of Theft?

Carolyn files ....................................................................... Fox Tracks Carolyn files ...............................................History on Lake Louie Adam Holland ............................................................. Fizke Theater Philip Williams ..................... Indian Pictographs at Paint Rock JANE CABUK (CIRCA 1970) ............................................... Jane’s Journal CHAD MAtranA ............................................... St. Joseph’s Day Alter Cindy Faust .......................................................... Night of Champions

Carolyn Williams - Owner of The Quilted History a non-profit organization.

Cover Photographer - Carter Photography Publication Photography by Spencer Carter

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CONTENT

39 DOWNSTAIRS GALLERY

by Julie Pearson

KREWE OF JANUS Politics-r-us 08 41 by Rachael Foust

by Linda Campbell

TRES FAVES 12

Valentine Favorites

DELTA GENTLEMAN 14

by Mark Sanders

SWIMMING WITH SHARKS 16

BY Bill Dye

BREAST AUGMENTATION 18

BY Dr. R. McIntyre Bridges

TAKING RESPONSIBILITY 20

BY Andi Holyfield

HAVE MERCY 22 The Ward Legacy

GET HEART HEALTHY 26

by Dr. Mark Napoli

NIVEN MORGAN 28

by Mark Sanders

HISTORY ON LAKE LOUIE 30

by Carolyn Files

The Quilted History 32

by B.A. Tripi

48 TODAY IN HISTORY

by E. Oram Young

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49 FISKE THEATER

by Adam Holland

50 ARE YOUR ASSETS AT RISK

by J. Michael Inzina

51 FEED MY SHEEP

Christian Community Action

52 FOX TRACKS BOOK REVIEW

by Carolyn Files

53 NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS at Revolution Park

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56 GOODBYE WINTER WHITE Hello Color!

58 VOLUNTEERING IN MOREHOUSE

by Kay King

60 MUSIC AND ME

by Elisabeth Poetker

62 JANE’S JOURNAL

by Jane Cabuk

64 bella Cucina

by Mark Sanders

68 CROSSWORD CORNER 70 HOROSCOPES

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Seasonal Setups For your home o ccaSionS • Home Accessorizing entry ways, dining rooms, book cases, mantels

• sPeciAl HolidAys easter, mardi gras, Halloween christmas, thanksgiving

• PArties/birtHdAys

• door wreAtHs

• Four seAsons

• FootbAll

co n tac t b . a .

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| 318-237-2362 318.267.2362 |

Art work by Ava Tripi age 5

s e a s o n a l s e t u p s @ ya h o o . co m

Stop YoYo-ing and Star t Living Make it your day for Weight Loss Surgery Are you constantly losing weight, only to gain it back again?

You might be starting to wonder if you’d be better off just accepting those belly rolls and XXX clothes sizes. But we promise, the perils of being overweight still outweigh the risks of yo-yo dieting. So how do you quit the cycle for good? It’s possible with Weight Loss Surgery. Make plans to attend our next FREE seminar to find out if Weight Loss Surgery could be right for you.

DOC TALKS SEMINAR

Monday, March 4th at 6:00PM

The Options and Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery Free Educational Seminar & Refreshments

Featured Speakers:

Ouachita Community Hospital 1275 Glenwood Drive • West Monroe, LA 71291

To register, call 318-322-1339 or online @ ouachitacommunityhospital.com/weightloss.

Henry Zizzi, MD

OCH - Bariatric Surgeon

Andi Holyfield, RD Bariatric Nutrition

Charlene Smith, RN

OCH - Bariatric Coordinator

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Politics-R-Us

by Linda Campbell Tres Bella Magazine

I grew up in a house where politics were a way of life. My first memory is of my daddy being sworn in as a state senator. I was three. So when I write, “when I was a little girl”, I really mean it. Anyway, when I was a little girl, there were always political things going on at my house. My daddy’s business partner was a state senator, and I never knew who I would see when I walked into a room—the governor or another senator or somebody just looking for a favor. Daddy loved to do favors. So when his friend Delesseps Morrison, the mayor of New Orleans, decided to run for governor—well, Daddy just had to help him.

The problem was that Shep, as they called him for obvious reasons, was from the sinful city of New Orleans; Rayville was in the Bible Belt of North Louisiana. To further complicate matters, he was running against Jimmy Davis who wasn’t a politician at all but a country-western singer. That was trouble in so many ways. Daddy came up with the idea that he would have a country-western show in our yard.

So they set up a stage, got some entertainers to come from “The Grand Ole Opry”, iced down some Cokes, set up some grills for hot dogs and nailed some signs to telephone poles inviting people to come on out and hear some of the best music in the state. And come they did. Just about every person in three parishes must have shown up (it seems a lot of people read telephone poles). My mother was panicking over whether there would be enough hot dogs and Cokes—and the mustard and buns would never last.

While all this panicking and music was going on, I (about 7 or 8, I think) was wandering through the crowd speaking to people I knew and introducing myself to those I didn’t. Did I happen to mention that my shy bone was definitely missing? I was wearing my new dress with a petticoat that had tons of ruffles; and as I flounced about, I was convinced that I was the cutest thing in the world—and nobody told me different.

While I was drifting through the crowd, the music stopped, and the crowd began to clap really loud. I tried to look at the stage, but I couldn’t see it for all the people. So I began to snake through the crowd to get closer. Up on the stage was Minnie Pearl. She was an entertainer who performed regularly at the Opry. She told jokes, sang, and played the washboard. Now she was doing those things on the stage in my yard; I was entranced. Then she

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looked out at the audience, and she saw me. “Why don’t you come up here and join me?” she asked.

Since I didn’t have my shy bone with me, I bounded up on stage. I looked out and saw my mother in the crowd; she looked strange. I couldn’t take my eyes off of the tag on Miss Minnie’s hat. She asked me a bunch of questions: who I was; what I was doing here; was I having a good time. Then I asked, “Do you know you still have the tag on your hat”?

This seemed like a good question to me, but the crowd laughed. Then she asked me if I could sing.

“Oh, yes, maam,” I answered, “I can sing”. I looked out at the audience, and my mother was shaking her head. Miss Minnie and I proceeded. She asked me if I knew a song. I said yes. She asked me the name of the song, and I said “Jesus Loves Me”.

“Sing it, Honey!” So I did, and the crowd loved it. They clapped and whistled.

I noticed my mother inching up closer to the stage.

Miss Minnie asked me if I knew another song. I said I did but I didn’t know the name of it. She said that was alright and to go ahead and sing it. My mother was coming pretty fast now, and I knew I had to hurry to get this song sung.

So I burst out singing, “What’ll you have Pabst Blue Ribbon. What’ll you have Pabst Blue Ribbon? Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer!” I didn’t know that my mother could move that fast, but she got me off the stage so quick that I didn’t even get a chance to say bye to Miss Minnie.

Shep didn’t win that election; I don’t think it was my fault—not all my fault anyway. I never got to sing on stage again—only in the choirs. For a long time people would ask me if I knew a song—they were just kidding.

Anyway we all survived. Our lives went on as usual, and politics went on as usual. And as I grew up, I realized that I had had many opportunities to get to know unusual and important people. All and all, I think that politics, overall, was very good for me—but not for my singing career.

AS SEEN IN COSMOPOLITIAN MAGAZINE JANUARY 2013 REGIONAL TOP PLASTIC SURGEONS SECTION! (subscription issue)

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Ouachita Community Hospital Surgical Weight Loss Center

Make it your year for weight loss surgery Considering Surgical Weight Loss Surgery?

Are You A Candidate?

Now that we’ve gotten past the holidays and are looking with excited anticipation at the New Year ahead, it’s a great time to resolve to live healthier.

For people who have been obese for years, it’s a perfect time to make a decision that could change their lives forever. If your weight is slowing you down or making you feel self-conscious about the way you look, then it’s time to learn more about weight loss surgery. Ouachita Community Hospital’s Surgical Weight Loss Center helps patients lose weight and keep it off so they can lead healthier, more active lifestyles. We go far beyond the surgery by providing a life-changing program that includes nutritional, physical activity and emotional guidance, as well as support groups.

Answering these questions may give you the courage you need to take the first step. Below are questions you can use to determine if you are obese and potentially a candidate for weight loss surgery:

• Are you more than 100 lbs. over your ideal weight?

• Is your BMI over 40?

• Do you have a BMI of over 35 and experience negative health effects such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, hypertension or type II diabetes, related to being severely overweight?

• Do you suffer from sleep apnea?

• Does your weight stop you from doing activities you enjoy?

• Are you unable to achieve a healthy body weight for a sustained period of time, even with medically supervised dieting?

Our experienced surgeons specialize in the surgical treatment of clinically obese patients. We offer the Adjustable Gastric Band, Sleeve Gastrectomy, Abdominoplasties, and Brachioplasties.

Our program provides you with a multidisciplinary team to help maximize your results. Our team includes Henry Zizzi, MD, bariatric surgeon; Stephen Maguire, MD, plastic surgeon; a family practice physician; a registered dietician, a registered nurse, and an insurance specialist.

What Is Weight Loss Surgery?

Weight loss surgery treats obesity by altering the gastrointestinal tract and reducing the amount of food a person can consume. Surgery, performed only on those who are severely overweight or for whom diet and exercise have failed, is a life-changing decision. It has the potential to resolve or improve many serious obesity-related health issues and improve quality of life.

Determining Body Mass Index A Body Mass Index (BMI) chart is designed to measure body fat based on a person’s height and weight. BMI Charts are used by fitness and health practitioners to quickly determine if a person is lean, average, overweight or obese. BMI does not actually measure body fat, but generally correlates well with the degree of obesity. For individuals with a combination of obesity and medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, type II diabetes, sleep apnea and osteoarthritis, the health risk is greatly increased.

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Attend a FREE Seminar on Monday, March 4th Register now to attend our next seminar on Monday, March 4th at 6:00 PM at Ouachita Community Hospital. We’ll discuss the challenges of obesity and the role of bariatric surgery, as well as outline the different types of weight loss surgery procedures and programs we offer. Bariatric Surgeon, Dr. Henry Zizzi, along with Bariatric Nutritionist, Andi Holyfield, RD; and Bariatric Coordinator, Charlene Smith, RN to present and answer any questions you may have. Also, spouses, family members and partners are encouraged to attend. Space is limited so if you would like to attend, call 318-322-1339. You may also make a reservation online @ ouachitacommunityhospital.com/weightloss.

By choosing to have surgery at the Ouachita Community Hospital’s Surgical Weight Loss Center, you are choosing a program that is tailored to meet your individual needs and weight loss goals. We believe in educating patients and providing the support to make the lifestyle changes required to lose the weight… and keep it off.

Ouachita Community Hospital’s Surgical Weight Loss Center is located at 1275 Glenwood Drive in West Monroe in the Ouachita Community Hospital. To schedule a FREE consultation, call (318) 388-1956.

Cinderella PROJECT COLLECTS DRESSES FOR LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS

The Cinderella Project of Monroe provides local junior and senior girls prom dresses, while building self-esteem, self-confidence and the importance of giving back to others. In its third year, The Cinderella Project of Monroe is collecting prom dresses throughout the month of January for its dress giveaway in the Spring. Dresses should be age appropriate and suitable for a high school student, clean and in good condition.

This year, The Cinderella Project has partnered with Cross Keys Bank. Each branch will serve as a drop off location for dresses. Dresses can also be dropped off at Raising Cane’s on Louisville Ave. in Monroe, Raising Cane’s in West Monroe, Raising Cane’s in Ruston, Herringstone’s Boutique, Salt & Pepper, K-Sera, Bayou Gypsy, Rain the Salon, Rodeo Boutique in Ruston and any of the three D&D Cleaners locations.

After all of the donations are collected, The Cinderella Project will host a Dress Giveaway on Saturday, March 16 at the Monroe Civic Center. The giveaway is open to area junior and senior high school girls.

Each girl is assigned a personal shopper, a Cinderella Project volunteer, to help pick out a dress and try dresses on. Girls can also choose from shoes, handbags and accessories to go along with their dress.

Each girl also receives a prom “goodie bag,” filled with makeup samples, perfume, gift cards from local restaurants and more.

The Cinderella Project was founded in Baton Rouge in 2008 and has since branched out to be statewide, with chapters in Lafayette, Shreveport and Monroe. It is a completely 100% volunteer organization and relies heavily on donations to pay for storage, racks for the dresses and other costs throughout the year.

Painting with a Twist will host The Cinderella Project of Monroe on January 27, 2013 for their monthly Painting with a Purpose. You can express your artistic side while benefiting a good cause. Contact Painting with a Twist at 654-4800 to sign up.

The Cinderella Project is seeking volunteers to help collect dresses, organize the collected dresses and serve as personal shoppers for the Dress Giveaway.

Drop off locations

• Herringstone’s Boutique

- 1830 Forsythe Avenue, Monroe • Rain the Salon, 407 Desiard Street, Monroe • K-Sera, 700 Trenton Street, West Monroe • Salt & Pepper Accessory Boutique,

- 310 Trenton Street, West Monroe • Rodeo Boutique, 116 W. Park Avenue, Ruston • Bayou Gypsy, 2252 Tower Drive, Monroe • Raising Cane’s

- 2761 Louisville Avenue, Monroe

- 206 Thomas Road, West Monroe

- 659 N Service Road E, Ruston • D & D Dry Cleaners

- 1214 North 18th Street, Monroe

- 230 Old Bastrop Road, Monroe

- 3005 Cypress Street, West Monroe • Cross Keys Bank

1401 Hudson Lane, Monroe

1913 Julia Street, Rayville

167 Keystone Road, Sterlington

307 Plank Road, St. Joseph

115 North Chesnut, Tullulah

423 Main Street, Waterproof

400 McMillian Road, West Monroe Dress donation guidelines: • Prom dresses MUST be age-appropriate and suitable for a high school student to wear to a spring formal.

• Dresses MUST be in style and in excellent condition.

• Dresses MUST be prom dresses, formal gowns or fancy party dresses (long or short).

• Prom dresses MUST be on hangers and dry-cleaned.

We cannot accept the following garments: • Dresses that have long sleeves, matching jackets or are mother-of-the-bride ensembles • Dresses made with velvet • Two-piece bridesmaids dresses • Garments that are faded, torn or stained • Garments that out of style (more than 5 years old) • Garments that have not been dry-cleaned • Tuxedos or men’s clothes We have limited storage space, so please keep these guidelines in mind before donating to The Cinderella Project. If you have a dress that does not meet our guidelines, please consider donating it to a deserving organization.

Fore more information: www.cinderellaprojectla.org www.facebook.com/cinderellaprojectofmonroe Contact: Ashley Yeldell 504-810-8488 Ashley.m.yeldell@gmail.com

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TrĂŠs Faves Limited Edition Lace Garter Slip - $98 bombshell fragrance - $51 Let the seduction begin.View the entire collections at www.victoriasecret.com

Chocolates in cute boxes - $16 Specially designed boxes to fit in offices & perfect gift f or friends and family

Elomi Sheer Babydoll with built in underwire bra and matching brief

EL8141 - $86.00, EL8145 - $24.00

I Do by Hanky Panky, $22 V-kini by Hanky Panky, $24 12

Available at: Just Like You 4900 Cypress St. #5 West Monroe, LA (318) 396-6789

Niven Morgan A New Line for Men

Available at The Muffin Tin 1904 Glenmar Ave., Monroe (318) 323-3753

Valentine’s Day floral bouquets Make them yours in a heartbeat. Send her a luxurious gathering of red and pink roses, elegantly hand-crafted inside a chic glass cylinder vase.

Snoopy Satin Boxers with Gift Bag and Tag “Be My Valentine” - $17 100% Polyester (Silky) Boxers with Decorative Gift Bag and Tag Manufactured by Peanuts available at www.snoopn4pnuts.com

Godiva’s Valentine’s Day Romantic Heart - $50 Celebrate a truly Happy Valentine’s Day with Godiva® Chocolate! Created more than 80 years ago, Godiva® chocolate caters to the world’s most discerning chocolate connoisseurs. www.godiva.com

Esprit d’Oscar Fragrance - $98 A modern take on his signature scent and is inspired by chic and sophisticated women!

Available at www.Oscar de la Renta.com 13

The Delta Gentleman Speaks

by Mark Sanders

2nd at 6:00. Start your Mardi Gras experience right by attending the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council’s Souper Catch, a competition tasting of soups from area chefs. The event will be held in the showroom of Hixson Autoplex on Louisville Avenue, and will last from 2:00 until 6:00. For tickets, please call 318-396-9520. Adult tickets are $20.00 and kids under 10 get to eat for $5.00.

This is going to be a fun event for the entire family!

Arabella and James Moore are definitely the “it” couple. I can’t think of a more charming young couple.

I started my new year with a list of resolutions, along with my compilation of “What’s In” and “What’s Out” for 2013. As my friend and mentor Victor Cascio would often do, I started the lists, then went back to them several times. I think you’ll agree that I’ve gotten them down to a good combination:

2013 was ushered in by pleasant weather and a very hectic schedule! It seems that the holidays had not come to an end before the start of the new year’s calendar of events began filling up -- quickly!

So many changes and challenges came during the past year, but I’m pleased to report that I am on the mend and ready to be on the town in the very near future. I have to say that I have appreciated all of my many friends who have kept me company during my recuperation and the long, slow process of allowing bones to heal. More thanks to those of you who have kept me up to date on the activities that I’ve missed--I wish I had been there, but I was so happy to hear from you!

One of my first outings was almost upon insistence of friends and let me tell you, I did not complain at all!

If I’m the Delta Gentleman, then I was treated by a few Delta Divas! Bacco, located in downtown Monroe’s Washington Plaza, has it all--ambiance, service and a menu that is nothing less than stellar! Chef Chad made his presence known as he mingled with his guests. The chef ’s culinary accomplishments can only be topped by his gracious charm and genuine warmth.

Friends at my table ordered from the menu, including at least three preparations of fillet, soft shell crab over a shrimp and corn cake and a lasagna that cannot be described as anything but decadent--layers of fresh pasta, bolognese sauce, bechamel sauce and Italian cheeses. Several of us shared an appetizer of duck confit bruschetta with caramelized shallots and bleu cheese.

The bruschetta came on a bed of baby spinach with balsamic reduction and toasted almonds. I ordered the chef ’s special shrimp and lobster fettuccine -- I was not too proud to ask for the more than half of the ample portion to be boxed and enjoyed for another meal.

The experience at Bacco left all of us raving and eager to plan our next visit. I hope that you will plan to try Monroe’s newest and one of its brightest dining spots. I would suggest a reservation and definitely recommend visiting with Chef Chad. You will want to thank him!

What’s In: -Memories of Loved Ones -Fresh Herbs -- this year, I’m going to have better luck with them!

-Positive Attitudes -Michael Aram Serving Pieces -Favorite Fashionista Tracy Coon -Farm to Table Dining -Hand-Written Notes -Dianne Cage’s Pecan Pralines -All Shapes & Sizes of Clear Vessels for Arrangements -White Buffet Plates -Monogrammed Notes -Rub & Scrub by Marguerite Taylor (found at Fiesta Nutrition) -North Delta Cuisine by Chef Cory Bahr -Random Acts of Kindness -Volunteers for Go Red for Women -Arts & Antiques Lovers Regina & Doug Wood -Monroe’s Downtown River Market (& Adrienne LaFrance) -Cathi French’s Radiant Smile -Saturday Brunch at Cascio’s Tavern -The Generosity of Local Artists -Cheryl Wicker, C.J. Sartor & Our Local Celebrities -Cutting Gardens for Fresh Flowers -Confections from Bayou Chocolate -Recipes Handed Down by Family -Afternoon Visits on the Side Porch with Lucy Shackelford -Rain the Salon in Downtown Monroe -Calling Cards -Volunteers for the American Cancer Society -The Golden Rule What’s Out: -Poor Manners -Bragging (in person, via e-mail or Facebook) -- Enjoy your blessings, don’t flaunt them.

-Looking Down on Anyone -Negative Feelings -Going to Bed Angry -- Let this year be your year to “let it go.”

With this issue, you may want to get your date book beside you. There are so many events in the Twin Cities and surrounding communities, it may be hard to fit them all in, but I hope you’ll make the effort.

Our popular politico, Sondra Mott is terribly busy planning for the Washington, D.C. Mardi Gras. I can’t wait to hear what all she has in store for the event!

The 2013 Krewe of Janus Parade is going to be held on Saturday, February

Dancing with the Louisiana Stars has become a favorite fundraiser for many locals. As a former contestant, I can promise you that this event requires more

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work than anyone could possibly imagine. I admit that I was also competing against my friends Patti Nelson and Kim Leija, among several others, which kicked our competitive nature into high gear! We still feel like Patti had an advantage! (Not really!) Kim Leija has been working tirelessly with Missy Crain and Mike Downhour to prepare for this year’s Dancing with the Louisiana Stars to be held at the Monroe Civic Center on Saturday, February 8th.

You will not want to miss this show!

The Cancer Foundation League has promised to take us on a trip to Morocco through their annual event held on Saturday, February 16th at the West Monroe Convention Center. The night kicks off at 7:00 PM, and Event Chair Jennifer Kerry tells me that this year will be an affair to remember. Tickets are available at the CFL Office, The Coffee Bean, Albritton Photography and Serendipity on Trenton Street. I can’t wait to see how this creative team will transform the ballroom into an Evening in Morocco!

Farmerville’s Willie Davis Center is the venue for Dancing with the StarsUnion Parish Style. Jayne Smith-Green has organized this fundraising event, with the talents of Angela Cusimano-Russell, owner of the Dance Studio of Union Parish. This year’s theme, “Tux & Tails,” seems appropriate, as all proceeds will go towards the Union Parish Humane Society Shelter Fund.

The event will begin at 6:00 with Green, along with Senator Mike Walsworth serving as masters of ceremony. For tickets, call 318-368-8284. Jenifer Aulds-Gray will assist you in your ticket reservation.

Niki Frank Myers has been keeping me abreast of the plans for Go Red for Women for the American Heart Association. I’m so eager to meet the keynote speaker, Lauren Thom. Thom, a New Orleans native is the creator of Fleurty Girl, with multiple locations in the New Orleans area and a thriving online business featuring Louisiana products. She seems to have an energy that is contagious--exactly what you need for a keynote speaker. Go Red for Women is an annual event that promotes education and awareness of heart disease in women. It’s the No. 1 killer of women and is more deadly than all forms of cancer. The event will be held at the West Monroe Convention Center on February 21st from 5:30-8:30. Tickets are $100.00 and tables of 8 are available for $1500.00. For tickets or for sponsorship information, please call Niki Myers at 318-355-1663 or e-mail her at niki.myers@heart.org. Learn more about Go Red at www.goredforwomen.org.

For the most filling of any fundraiser, make plans to attend the GOT GUMBO? Cook-Off in New Orleans on March 7th. Twenty restaurants from the New Orleans area--including Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse, Desire Oyster Bar, M Bistro at The Ritz-Carlton and Charlie’s Restaurant--will gather at the Grand Ballroom of the Royal Sonesta Hotel. Each restaurant will do their best to earn the right to call their’s the “Best Gumbo,” all while supporting the United Way of Southeast Louisiana’s local and state-wide programming.

For tickets and more information, visit www.unitedwaysela.org. Online tickets are available for $25.00 until March 4th, and for $30.00 at the event.

Sounds like a great excuse for a trip to New Orleans!

I’m experimenting with a new kitchen gadget--a Himalayan Pink Salt Block from the Muffin Tin. The block has a very low amount of porosity, so the plates can be heated or chilled to great temperatures. They can be used in the oven, on a gas cook top or on a grill. Their lack of porosity means that the surface area touching your food is minimal, so these large blocks of salt will impart only a very moderate saltiness. Second, the high quantity of trace minerals (1.2% sulfur, .4% calcium, .35% potassium, .16% magnesium, and 80 other trace minerals) impart a more mild and full taste to the salt, and by extension, more flavor complexity to your food. I’m still testing now, but keep looking--I’ll be sure to give a full report.

Fresh croissants are available on Saturdays at Vieux Carre Gourmet. Their classic French method of preparing the quintessential pastry begins days ahead, folding and rolling butter into the dough to create the rich, flaky texture of the croissant. If you are out and about, drop by Vieux Carre Gourmet and choose from classic, chocolate or almond. If you buy too many (yeah, right), drop the extras into a freezer bag and freeze until you’re ready to make bread pudding! While you’re there, don’t forget to order your handmade king cake!

Be sure to follow us on Facebook by liking “The Delta Gentleman Speaks.”

Until next time, keep listening and keep in touch. ~ Mark

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SWIMMING WITH SHARKS Years ago a good friend invited me to join him and two other guys for the trip of a lifetime. He would charter a forty-foot sailboat and we would do the Jimmy Buffet thing in the British Virgin Islands.

by Bill Dye, North Monroe Baptist Church

One afternoon our little crew of meandering misfits found a little cove in the bite of an island north of Tortola. We tied to a mooring ball, donned our fins and snorkels, and then like idiots, went back first off the deck of the boat Jacque Cousteau style.

Nobody remembered to drop the ladder.

Meanwhile, Terry finally managed to scale the boat and let down the ladder. Ray and Scott now had to swim thirty feet through shark infested waters to get to the ladder while I exaggerated the sharks’ intentions.

After a snorkeling a couple of hundred yards over a pristine coral reef we headed back. I was the first to arrive at the boat. I was also the first to see the sharks. Two big ones about six or seven feet long were swimming under our boat. I turned and sounded the alarm, “Sharks.” Three heads popped up from the water, “What did you say?” “Sharks! Right under the boat.”

Their efforts to climb the ladder were pure Keystone Cops comedy. Scott tried to climb up, but his flippers would get caught in the rungs. Ray pulled Scott off the ladder and went first while Scott waited anxiously and I continued my deviltry, “Look out Scott he’s right beside you!” At one point I think I saw Scott walk on water. After what seemed an eternity everyone was safe on board and the sharks were free to do whatever they were trying to do before we arrived.

It was a tricky situation. To warn the others I had to lift my face and mask out of the water. When I did that I couldn’t see the sharks. So I quickly re-submerged. In truth, they were probably some garden variety of harmless sharks but we were landlubbers.

Sharks are like snakes. They are all dangerous.

I learned four lessons about swimming with sharks: 1) you never know when it will happen so you can’t plan it. 2) sharks seem bigger when you are in the water with them. 3) escape is all you can think about, and 4) you can always count on someone to make it worse.

I swam for the ladder to get free of danger. And that’s when I realized, “We forgot to put it down.” The deck of a forty-foot sailboat is about four or five feet above the water line. Hauling myself straight up with two man-eating sharks right below me was not an option.

Those same lessons apply to the troubles of life. You can be cruising through life when trouble suddenly arrives unannounced and uninvited. You don’t plan it. The size of the situation is hard to judge. Escape is your first reaction. And someone will always be around with a discouraging word to make it worse.

Plan B. I raced to the rear of the boat and launched myself into the inflatable dinghy like a navy seal. Well, maybe not exactly like a Navy Seal, but I was safe.

Perhaps that’s how you feel right now. The sharks are circling.

Management is talking about layoffs. A close friend betrayed you. Your child has deeply disappointed you. The doctor came back and said they will need to do more tests.

Terry, a fireman, splashed wildly trying to climb the side of the boat. Ray, our host, sought refuge on the mooring ball. That was a sight. Picture a grown man in total panic trying to climb onto a beach ball in the middle of the ocean.

Scott, our third friend grabbed the line from the boat to the mooring ball and hauled himself onto it. He hung upside down with arms and legs wrapped around the rope like a three-toed sloth. Unfortunately, his weight on the line pulled the boat toward the ball and his posterior region sank into the water like a shark hors d’oeuvre.

16

you.” Ray and Scott would come unraveled with every new warning. In truth, the sharks were lazily swimming at the other end of the boat.

I leaned over the side of the dinghy with my mask to see what the sharks were doing. They were in frenzy. All the splashing was energizing them. “Ray, look out they are heading for you!”

Ray did all he could to pull arms and legs onto the bobbing ball.

Scott was trying to climb the rope and save his rump. Seeing their panic, I couldn’t resist having some fun by offering spurious updates, “Scott, here they come!” “Ray look out it’s right beside

Life feels like the chorus from Jimmy Buffet’s song, “Fins.”

“Can’t you feel ‘em circlin’, honey?

Can’t you feel ‘em swimmin’ around?

You got fins to the left, fins to the right And you’re the only bait in town.”

Let me encourage you. Take a deep breath. Things probably aren’t as bad as you think. You will get through this. Don’t listen to all the naysayers that are inflating the danger. Find a quiet place of refuge and trust that God still has a plan for your life.

Here’s a verse that might help when you find yourself face to fin with trouble. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

St. Joseph’s Day Alter Bacco’s to bring a new tradition to the area.

Chef Chad Matrana has introduced a number of new things to North Louisiana since he opened Bacco Italian Grille just a few months ago – a new twist on Italian cuisine with some south Louisiana inspiration, a new business in the heart of downtown Monroe in the midst of its revitalization, and now – a new tradition.

On March 19th, patrons can visit Bacco and view the St. Joseph’s Day Altar, a tradition rich in history within the Catholic religion.

“I asked if there was anything like this in this area and people told me that nobody really does it around here,” said Chef Matrana. “I thought this was a good opportunity to preserve something important to me and others in the Italian community. Plus, I can share this tradition with people who may not have ever heard of it.”

This tradition, brought over from Sicily in the late 1800’s, is a way to honor the saint that provided relief after a long famine. “I’m very proud of my Italian heritage,” said Chef Matrana. “As a child, I was always involved in the construction of the altar and I was a member of an Italian-American marching club so this is something that means a lot to me and I want to be able to share it with others.”

A traditional St. Joseph’s altar is constructed in the shape of the cross, with

three levels honoring the Holy Trinity. The altar is covered in food of all kinds, with the exception of meat, as the day falls within the Lenten period.

Many foods hold great significance – breads baked in the shapes of ladders, saws and hammers to represent carpenter tools, hard-boiled eggs to symbolize the rebirth of spring and the coming of Easter, whole fish represent the miracle of the multiplication of loaves and fava beans, which are considered the “lucky bean” as they were the only crop that survived the drought and saved many from starvation. Chef Matrana plans on having the traditional altar foods that include fish, pasta, bread, cookies and pastries.

It is believed that St. Joseph rewards each individual outpouring of effort and charity, and will intercede to help in recovery from illness, success in business, conception of a child or the safe return of a loved one in the time of war.

After the altar is dismantled, the food is donated to a shelter so others can share in this tradition of giving and gratitude. This tradition isn’t just limited to Catholics and Italian-Americans. Everyone is invited to share food from the altar, donate to the altar and express thanks for any sort of fortune in their lives.

The altar will be in the foyer of Bacco Italian Grille, located inside of Washington Plaza at 300 Washington Street in downtown Monroe. Bacco opened in November of 2012 and serves fresh, inspired Italian cuisine including pasta, seafood, sandwiches, pizzas and more. Bacco is open for lunch Monday through Friday and serves dinner Monday through Saturday.

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Because women have questions...

Breast

Augmentation

by R. McIntyre Bridges, Jr. MD Currently my email, mcintyre2@mac.com, is filled with questions about breast enlargement, breast lifts, SmartLipo, Cellulaze, tummy tucks. This article will be on breast enlargement. The other procedures will be address in subsequent issues.

The two most common questions are, “Which is the best breast implant?” and “Can fat injections really enlarge the breast?” Curiously, these questions are strongly related. They both ask, “What is best substance for my breast enlargement?” “Is it saline (salt water), silicone gel or my own fat?”

Deeply these two questions are born from a single fear and several common concerns. The single “fear” is directed at implant safety. The “common concerns” are about the breast’s shape, their natural feel and longevity of the results.

Safety

Several years ago the FDA, “cleared” both saline and silicone gel breast implants as safe. This means for 3 decades, multiple clinical studies cannot link silicone gel or saline implants convincingly to any disease entity. The FDA requires close implant tracking and reporting of any adverse events to maintain a diligent pursuit in safety of patients.

Breast fat injection’s safety is still under investigation. The concern is related to the occurrences of mammographic abnormalities that may be mistaken as breast cancer.

Breast Shape

An aesthetically attractive full, cone-shaped breast is, for a lifetime, bombarded by many shapechanging factors. The most obvious, is the fact that “breasts live off the edge of a cliff all their lives”.

This is a major mover, no pun intended, in an undesired downward direction. Two other major factors coaxing this downward direction are pregnancy and weight changes. All these factors can change a firm, full, cone-shaped breast into a flattened, droopy tube-sock.

Sadly, it’s not just these three major shape-changers, but also an additional dozen minor factors that constantly assault the breast. These “naturally occurring” factors don’t stop after an artificial breast enlargement.

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This explains why twenty percent of augmented breast undergo surgical “tweaking” over a tenyear period.

Breast Natural Feel

Strangely, when only saline implants were available, “natural feeling breasts” weren’t a big concern. Any woman with saline implants will feel her implants. With silicone gel implants available now, this “lack of concern” has changed to a desired for “natural feeling breasts”.

A breasts feel is due to its tissue thickness. Augmented breast feel natural only when the implant thickness is similar to normal breast tissue. The Jell-O-like consistency of Silicone gel implants is far superior in feel than the water-like saline implants.

Another question is “Will the augmented breast’s firmness be similar to a younger woman’s breast?”

The answer is “no”. Young women’s breast is firm due to the ratio of naturally firm breast tissue and soft fatty tissue. Young breast are 90% breast tissue and 10% fat. This results in firmness and perkiness. Unfortunately, the breast tissue/fat ratio reverses over time and softer less perky breast result.

Longevity

Understand breast implants are man-made products. Just like your car will not last forever, neither will your breast implant. Saline and the new silicone gel implants have good track record with a low rupture rate. Also the manufactures warranty is better than any car warranty.

Fat Injection for Breast Enlargement

This is my opinion on the current state of breast fat injections. 1) The resulting size increase on a single procedure on average is a little over half a cup size. I haven’t found any woman all that “fired up” about such a little change. Multiple costly sessions are usually required. 2) Breasts injected with fat can have scars that may look like breast cancer on a mammogram. I don’t do fat injection in the breast for these reasons.

For answers related to breast augmentation visit my website www.bridgestobeauty.com or send me an email. Thanks. Also try my world famous chicken salad recipe to the right... you’re ‘gonna love it.

Umami

Chicken Salad

from Dr. R. McIntyre Bridges Jr. Ingredients 4 cups of shredded white chicken breast meat 4 oz sour cream (1/2 cup ) 1 cup mayo 2 tbsp Obie-cue Steakmaster powder, heaping (www.obiecue.com) A substitute would be 3 tsp of Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp garlic powder, heaping 2 tsp onion powder, heaping 1/4 tsp of nutmeg 1/2 tsp cracked pepper, 1/2 tsp of salt 1 tsp Tabasco sauce 2 tbsp of Port wine.

2 tsp toasted sesame seed oil 1 cup of sweet pickled hot jalapeños.

Chopped into midsize pieces.

One 12 oz. jar of “Trappey’s Sweet n’ Hot Jalapeno Slices” is perfect.

1 cup fresh seedless red grapes chopped 1.5 cups of roasted pecans, roasted in 1 tablespoon of butter, on low heat

Preparation Mix sour cream and mayo together.

Add garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg, salt and crack pepper.

Mix well then add Tabasco sauce, Port wine and toasted sesame seed oil.

Next add chicken. Add and mix with the jalapenos, pecans and then grapes.

Cover and let set in the refrigerator for at least 1 hours.

(I highly recommend Obie-Cue’s Steakmaster rub, very versatile.)

Time for Spring Cleaning!

We now carry a complete line of Caldrea Kitchen and Laundry products 609 Park Avenue Monroe, LA 318-699-8964 Hours Tues - Fri 10-5, Sat. 10-3 Free Gift Wrap & Gift Certificates Available! Check us out on Facebook!

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t et ex sis sm ment e go! ing

TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR OWN HEALTH

Eat to Lose is all about Health and Fitness in 2013

In the United States more money per person is spent on health care than in any country in the world, but the life expectancy in our country ranks fiftieth. Most people require an entire year to lose a significant amount of weight. In less than half that time, Jeff Weaver shed a total of 37 lbs and 3 pant sizes! Even more amazing, he was able to achieve his weight loss goal in the first 6 weeks! Thanks to Registered Dietitian and professional weight-loss coach Andi Holyfield, it only took 6 weeks for Jeff to go from a size 40+ to a size 38 without any type of medication. According to the Institute of Medicine, the U.S. is the only country in the world that does not ensure that all its citizens have health care coverage. In the U.S. health insurance is controlled by private corporations whose goal is profit, not health. 2013 should encourage you to take charge of your own health; see how Jeff Weaver gained his health back after “Eat to Lose”.

With a strong family history of diabetes, a 2-year old son, baby on the way, and a loving wife—Jeff’s objectives were clearly defined. Eat to Lose is a program that offers a way to control body weight and still satisfy intense food cravings. Eat to Lose taught Jeff how to shed the pounds without counting points, starving his body, or depriving himself of the foods he truly enjoys.

Many diet programs are sponsored by uncertified staff or sell expensive products, so Jeff was understandably skeptical. However, he confidently chose Eat to Lose because Dr. Greg Green warned Jeff if he did not lose weight he may be at risk for type II diabetes, high cholesterol, and elevated blood pressure. “With a family history of diabetes, maintaining your ideal body weight and avoiding obesity is crucial to limiting your risk of developing diabetes,” explains Member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, Dr. Greg Green. Eat to Lose is a trusted method that educates patients and supplies them with a maintainable, healthful lifestyle plan.

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“The reason I hired Andi was because Dr. Greg Green recommended her. Thirty-seven pounds melted off, so I kept going! After the initial weight loss, I found the confidence to step back from the intense one-on-one guidance.” says Jeff. Jeff’s success is not uncommon; with customized and affordable plans, weight loss is achievable.

t a die nt on than u o e Eat to Lose is a 6-week weight loss plan for both children r c o M an you c and adults that is personalized to suit your individual e l y t es . ist L.D.N ition 20 A lif field, nsed Nutr Holy Andi an & Lice 0 12 titi

lifestyle and satisfy your strong food cravings. The motivation to get moving is encouraged by the program’s location in the Monroe Athletic Club, where reducedrate memberships are available with enrollment. This successful, healthful, customized program gives patients the knowledge to make informed choices, understand nutrition labels, eat at restaurants with ease, consider portions, and manage even the worst food cravings.

Andi has over 17 years of expertise in guiding adults and children to develop healthier eating habits. Whether your goal is to reduce the risk of heart disease, lose weight, or simply to learn how to eat in a more healthful way, Eat to Lose can help to achieve your nutritional goals and reduce medications associated with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and reflux. If nothing else the debate of health care in this country should encourage you to take charge of your own health. Here are some simple suggestions: 1.)If you do not have a simple exercise program start one.

Pick something you enjoy.

2.)Watch what you eat. Read the labels on the food you buy. Get educated! How much sodium is there in your favorite foods? Even organic foods have high sodium content. Fat? Sugar alcohol? Soluble or insoluble fiber?

Small serving sizes? Eat to Lose can show you how to read labels to end the confusion.

3.)Take inventory of your beliefs. If medical intuitive like Louise Hay’s and Carolyn Myss are correct, then our health is more than just about eating right and getting exercise. It’s about our emotions, our belief system, friendships, and work environment. Your state of emotions can impact your health. Are you happy?

4.)Practice the art of appreciation.

Expect the best from others.

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Editors note: While the country was celebrating New Years Eve and watching CNN or FOX news to see if #13-The lowest level of paintings is a group of human figures. One of these is a robed figure and the others have an hourglass one thatover is inverted we shape. wereThegoing thesymbolizes fiscal death. cliff, The larger shelf on top shows a bear-track to the right, and other robed and hourglass figures. the Tre’s Bella, behind the scenes reports, Philip Williams and Pipes Barham, were in the cliffs ANGIE: These are the pictures and explanations to follow article on Indian pictographs ---- physically! (do like flint-napping article in Aug./Sept. if that can work.)

Heading article pictograph should be #11-A stick figure with arms extended and appears to have an arrow through its head.

Indian Pictographs in Paint Rock, Texas

15-There was about 1500 of these large red and white pictographs found at the site. #17-A group of characters possibly relating to a hunt from lest to right: A sun or moon lines thought to be throwing or atlatls, two birds, several There are several theories about what they represent. They could followed be aby crooked boat that wassticksseen circles which could be suns, moons or tipi rings. Above these are a number of count By: Philip Williams and Pipes Barham, Tres Bella marks. Magazine Note the lines are about the width of a person’s finger. y the artiest on the coast or river. Possible enumeration marks are seen to the right. It ould represent a canoe burial practiced by some tribes with the ladder used to ascend to he heavens. Another theory is that it represents a cave along the canyon wall of one of Where is Paintrivers---Pecos, Rock, Texas? Paint RockDevil’s is a small town he southern orinRio Grande---that the tribes went to during the the Hill Country of Texas on Hwy 83. Hundreds of Indian winter months.

Pictographs are found along a rock bluff overlooking a once #15-There was about 1500 of these large red and white pictographs found at the site.

There are several theories about what they represent. They could be a boat that was seen by the artiest on the coast or river. Possible enumeration marks are seen to the right. It could represent a canoe burial practiced by some tribes with the ladder used to ascend to the heavens. Another theory is that it represents a cave along the canyon wall of one of the southern rivers---Pecos, Devil’s or Rio Grande---that the tribes went to during the winter months.

widely-used Indian camp ground.

#B-This sequence of prominent stars is said to represent the signature of a fa named Asa Havey, a contemporary and companion of Quanna Parker. It ha documented that Asa Havey left his mark among the paintings at this site. H #17-A group of characters possibly relating to a hunt from lest meant “starry pathway”#13-The or to“milky way”. right:level A sun or moonisfollowed crooked lines toabe lowest of paintings a group ofby human figures.

Onethought of these is robed

At this outstanding rock art site, many of the paintings are remarkably well preserved. The pictographs are thought to be 200 to 500 years old, but some are superimposed over paintings believed to be much older.

and the others have an hourglass shape. The one that is inverted symbolizes death. #15-There was about 1500 of these large red and white figure throwing sticks or atlatls, two birds, several circles which could The larger shelf on top shows a bear-track to the right, and other robed and hourglass figures. pictographs found atTo the site.

There are several theories suns, moonshand or tipi rings. are a number of count the right of the stars is abevertical printAbove andthese immediately below it is a about what they represent.

They couldNote be a boat thatthesemarks.

Note theleft lines hands, are about the width of a person’s The main color of the pictographs is red with the occasional hand print. that are both indicating thatfinger. the artist is rig was seen by the artiest on the coast or river. Possible appearance of black, white and yellow. The pictographs enumeration marks are seen to the right. It could include an endless variety of subject matter, ranging in size represent a canoe burial practiced by some tribes with from a few inches to over 5 feet. Some single paintings stand the ladder used to ascend to the heavens. Another theory #18- Turtle –This is a pictograph of a turtle within a circle, representing a solstice alone while others form a unit to relate a more complex is that on it represents a cave the canyon wall of oneofoflight pointing symbol. At midday June 21, 1998, Dr. along Nob Robbins discovered lines story. Newer discoveries of solar markers suggest that the to the turtle, creating a summer solstice marker.

This or suggest that certain tribes gathered the southern rivers---Pecos, Devil’s Rio Grande---that to celebrate rituals marking the first day of summer. site was once a spiritual meeting place of some tribes. the tribes went to during the winter months.

Although most of the paintings were made by nomadic bands of hunters and gatherers, there is evidence that some groups occupied the site for a considerable time.

Leon Plain pottery found at the sire has been dated 900 to 1000 years old. The most recent paintings were believed to have been painted by Comanche who lived in the area from the mid- 1700s until about 1860. Earlier paintings were probably made by Jumanos, Lipan Apaches, Tonkawas, Kiowas and possible others.

#119-The large, four-horned figure is thought to be an important leader entitled to wear

four buffalo horns as his headdress. The balloon-shaped element could be a talk symbol #C- A pictograph of a buffalo or ceremonial pipe. his tail up meant the buffalo were runnin #13-Thewith lowest level of paintings is a group of human figures. One of down meant the buffalo were theseeating. is a robed figure and the others have an hourglass shape. The

one that is invertedpossibly symbolizes death.

Thefrom larger on Atopsunshows #17-A group of characters relating to a hunt lestshelf to right: or moon followed by crooked lines thought to be throwing sticks or atlatls, two birds, several a bear-track to the right, and other robed and hourglass figures. circles which could be suns, moons or tipi rings. Above these are a number of count marks. Note the lines are about the width of a person’s finger.

#18- Turtle –This is a pictograph of a turtle within a circle,

#B-This sequence of prominent stars is said to represent the signature of a famous Indian representing a solstice symbol. At midday on June 21, named Asa Havey, a contemporary and companion of Quanna Parker. It has been Since the 1870’s this site has been in the same ranching 1998, Dr. left Nobhis Robbins discovered lines of light pointing to name documented that Asa Havey mark among the paintings at this site. His “starry pathway” or “milky way”. the turtle, creating a summer solstice marker. This suggest family. For many years the site was locked from themeant public,

#D-On the right-hand side of this long, yellow rock is the drawing of a horiz woman. Her position indicates capture. Her hooped skirt identifies her as a that certain tribes gathered to celebrate rituals marking and showings were rare, in an attempt to preserve the woman and would the painting about Civil War time. To the left is a sh To the right of the stars is a vertical hand print and immediately belowdate it is a horizontal #119-The large, four-horned figure is thought to be an important firstare dayboth of summer. pictographs. Due to increasing public interest the hand areaprint. hasNote thatthethese leftcrossed hands, indicating that the is right handed. lances ---artist a symbol of aentitled war toparty. spear on the leader wear fourBeneath buffalo hornsthe as his headdress.

The left are now been opened.

balloon-shaped element could be a talk symbol or ceremonial pipe.

All visitors are accompanied to the site and appointments are preferred. Guest will be given a personal guide that conducts a lectured tour and can answer your questions. #C- A pictograph of For reservations and tour information call 325-732-4376.

#12-This is one of the best-preserved highly stylized representations at the site. It is thought to represent a tomahawk in the lower right, two heart-shaped objects to the left— possibly representing meat. The larger figure to the left is possibly a rodent—perhaps a beaver. Above the tomahawk is a bird and above the bird a man wrapped for burial. His position would indicate he is ascending to the Happy Hunting Grounds. Each equinox, sunlight on the rock makes a trail for his ascension.

It is recorded that near Mason in 1865 a woman, her daughter and their maid traveling by wagon and were attacked by Comanches. The mother and maid #D-On the right-hand side of this long, yellow rock is the drawing of a horizontal woman. and 15-year-old Alice was carried Indians never to and be hea Her Todd position indicates capture. Heraway hoopedby skirt the identifies her as a white woman B-This sequence ofagain. prominent stars is said to a buffalo with his tail up meant the buffalo were running and tails would date the painting about Civil War time. To the left is a shield with crossed lances --- a

represent the signature of a famous Indian down meant the buffalo were eating. symbol of a war party. Beneath the spear on the left are two scalps. named Asa Havey, a contemporary and #12-This is one of the best-preserved highly companion of Quanna Parker. It has been stylized representations at the site. It is thought to documented that Asa Havey left his mark represent a tomahawk in the lower right, two heartamong the paintings at this site. His name shaped objects to the left—possibly representing meant “starry pathway” or “milky way”. meat. The larger figure to the left#D-On is possibly a the right-hand side of this long, yellow rock is the drawing of a horizontal rodent—perhaps a beaver. Above the tomahawk is woman. Her position indicates capture. Her hooped skirt identifies her as a white To the right of the stars is a vertical hand print woman would date the painting about Civil War time. To the left is a shield with a bird and above the bird a man wrapped forand burial. and immediately belowBeneath it is a horizontal recorded that near Mason in 1865 a woman, her daughter and their maid were crossed lances of a war party. the spear hand on the left Itareis two scalps.

His position would indicate he is ascending to the--- a symbol print. Note that these are both left hands, traveling by wagon and were attacked by Comanches. The mother and maid were killed Happy Hunting Grounds. Each equinox, sunlight on It is recorded that nearindicating Mason inthat 1865 woman, her daughter were thea artist is right handed. and their maid and 15-year-old the rock makes a trail for his ascension. traveling by wagon and were attacked by Comanches. The mother and maid were killedAlice Todd was carried away by the Indians never to be heard from again. and 15-year-old Alice Todd was carried away by the Indians never to be heard from again.

21

The Ward Legacy

Proving Mercy Can Move Mountains.

The Wards (John, Kim, Anna, Maggie and Evan) Merry Christmas!!

It is hard to believe that 2012 will soon be coming to a close. It has been an extraordinary year for our family in many ways. As you may know, all five of us travelled to Africa for the first time in the summer of 2011 to work with orphans and vulnerable children through the ministry of Family Legacy Missions International, a non-profit organization based in Irving, Texas. We were so moved by the children we met that we decided to do something permanent to make a difference in the lives of Zambian orphans. Last Christmas, we were raising funds to build Mercy House, a residential home for orphans at the Tree of Life Children’s Village in Lusaka, Zambia. Amazingly, Mercy House is now a reality and HOME for twelve children and two house moms!

The cost to build and furnish the house was $80,000. While this was a large sum of money, it seemed like a small amount to completely transform the lives of so many children. Through a lot of hard work and the generosity of HUNDREDS of people, all of the funds were raised in just eight months. Construction for the house began immediately and on July 21, 2012 we had the privilege of moving the first group of children into Mercy House.

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Eight girls, four boys and two house moms now reside there. The children are beautiful, but the stories of their past are heart-breaking. Frances (8), Precious (6) and Concelia (3) are siblings who are double-orphans, having lost both parents to illness. Forced to live on the streets with no money, no food, no hope of education and no shelter, they were completely vulnerable to the darkness of the slum compound where they were living. Sadly, one night, Concelia was raped so violently that she could not walk for nearly six months. Thankfully, their story was discovered at Camp Life and they now have a permanent home at Mercy House. Every child who lives there has a similar story--neglected, abused, starving, sick, or homeless. All had lost one or both parents as young children and were left to fend for themselves. It is difficult to describe the joy we felt as we escorted these kids to a place where warmth, security, food, safety and love abound! (Concelia and Precious are pictured with our daughter, Anna. I would love to share the stories of the other nine children living in Mercy House. Please contact me if you are interested in knowing more!)

There are so many more children in Zambia who needed a safe place to call home. As soon as the funding for Mercy House was complete, we began helping a friend, Katy Gibson, to raise the money for a SECOND home, John Mark’s House. We are grateful that through the generosity of many people, God brought in all the necessary funds.

In May of 2013, twelve more orphans will move into their new home at the Tree of Life! TWO new houses is amazing but the work in Zambia is far from over. Our goal is to continue raising money through donations & fundraisers to bring hope and HOMES to the orphans of Zambia.

Currently, we are working on a THIRD house at Tree of Life. Fundraising has already begun for Ambuya’s House. Ambuya (um-BOO-ya) is the Nyanja word for “grandmother.” This home will be named in memory of my mother, Sue Fast, who was “Boo” to our children and who had lived with our family for the past 16 years. The DAY AFTER we moved the children into Mercy House, our sweet Boo went to her new home in heaven.

She had been excited about the project and urged our family to make the trip to Africa, even though she was near death and assumed the next time she would see the five of us again would likely be in heaven. Boo knew how important it was for the children to move in and for us to be there. She assured us that God would either heal her or take her on to heaven and she was fine with either option, but the rest of us needed to go on to Zambia.

We feel like a home at Tree of Life would be a fitting tribute to a woman who so dearly loved her own children and grandchildren, as well as the Zambian orphans she had never met. When the funds are raised ($100,000), twelve more children will find their home in “Grandmother’s House.”

To learn more about our current fundraiser (“have mercy” t-shirts & other items) or to donate ONLINE, please visit our website at www.familylegacy.com/havemercy. All gifts are tax-deductible and contributions made on that site and from all fundraisers go directly toward the construction of Ambuya’s House. I have also included a pre-addressed envelope if you would prefer to mail your donation to the Family Legacy office. Checks should be made payable to “Family Legacy” with “Ambuya’s House” in the memo line. Finally, if you have questions, comments, or would like to get involved or learn more, please email me at momward3@gmail.com, call me at 318-548-9612, or message me on Facebook at “Kim Fast Ward.”

Also, be sure to like our Facebook page “Mercy

House and More.”

James 1:27 says “Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of God is this: to care for the orphans and the widows in their distress.” Thank you for considering this opportunity to invest in the lives of the forgotten children of Zambia through your gift to Ambuya’s House. To those who have already given so generously, please use the enclosed photo card as a reminder to pray for the orphans of Zambia and for our sweet children at Tree of Life who are orphans no more!

The Wards (John, Kim, Anna, Maggie and Evan) **Update from a little closer to home . . we are all fine and staying busy!

Evan is looking forward to starting Ruston High School next year where he will be playing football, as he has done the past two years. He is ready to be a Bearcat!

Maggie is in the middle of her freshmen year at University of Arkansas where she is studying elementary education and doing very well. She is looking forward to being a Pine Cove Base Camps counselor for the first half of the summer.

Anna is graduating with honors in May from the University of Arkansas with a B.S. in International Business (emphasis in information systems) and minors in Economics & Spanish. She is excited to be joining the staff of Family Legacy where she will use her business background to assist with sponsorship logistics. We are thrilled that she has chosen to pursue this path and will be sharing more details in the days ahead.

We will return to Zambia as a family in mid-July and look forward to seeing our children from Mercy House, meeting the residents of John Mark’s House and doing Camp Life with some new children still waiting for a home. Looking forward to opening Ambuya’s House one day soon! Thanks for your help in making these homes a reality!

23

GIFTS • FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS • PLANTS

Order Now for Valentine’s Day!

Sometimes a Girl Just Needs to Know the Answers...

QUESTION : Thinning hair, brittle nails, and not-so-tight skin are my concerns. What is offered in the natural supplement realm ?

ANGIE: It’s essential for for the body to generate collagen to improve the condition of the joints, hair, nails , bones, and even arteries. BioSil is a natural supplement that encourages this process. Our customers opt most for the easy-to-use , fast –absorbing liquid form. The daily dosage is minimal(10 drops).

BioSil is relatively inexpensive for such an awesome science-based nutrient. $30 buys a two-month supply.

QUESTION: What line of makeup do you recommend?

ANGIE: We love Mineral Fusion! Heaven knows there are countless brand of “mineral-based’ makeups on the market and the one we choose is exclusive to health-food stores worldwide. This USA –made company’s belief is that makeup should do more than cover your skin. It should be therapeutic, nourishing and protective from the elements. Due to their sound practices of nothing artificial they are sold in stores like ours that have high standards for purity and ethics. Now for the fun part….the color palettes Mineral Fusion offers are SO RIGHT NOW ! They present earthy tones that enhance any skin tone or type . Every girl on our staff uses Mineral Fusion makeup and have been trained to help customers to choose the perfect products. We invite you to touch and feel the testers in our lovely display and receive friendly advice. One of the many benefits of mineral makeup is that the investment lasts a long time, a little goes a long way making the price very reasonable for something so high-end.

QUESTION: Any suggestions for acne-prone skin?

ANGIE: Yes! I have listened to all the old-timers in the natural foods industry and can share a few bits of wisdom . Good skin comes from a healthy gut. A good probiotic to restore and maintain healthy flora is the first place to start.

This makes your “digestive playing field” able to withstand all the abuse from medications, sugar, and lack of fresh foods. An apple a day is really everything it’s cracked up to be relating to skin. Our go-to supplement formula for teen and adults is Michael’s Skin Factors. It is therapeutic dosages of zinc and fatty acids along with herbals for liver detoxification. For topical therapy we suggest MyChelle Dermaceuticals Blemish Control line of cleansers, scrubs and soothing creams.

QUESTION: Any ideas for natural hydration of the skin besides drinking water?

ANGIE: In addition to a daily intake of fish, seeds and Omega 3 supplementation I really wish everyone would use COCONUT OIL. Organic extra-virgin coconut oil is so incredibly delicious to use in cooking, added to smoothies or yogurt, or simply eaten out of the spoon. At first it may be a bit hard to get over the fact that a tablespoon of such a rich oil is actually legal for a healthy diet. This is a good fat that the margarine industry wanted us to forget about 40 years ago. If you desire a good brain and a healthy coat, come….let’s talk about coconut oil….

24

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I grew up in a small town, Jonesville, la, where athletics, hunting and fishing were a big part of my life. i graduated college with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with a concentration in exercise science from ulM, i also acquired my aCsM Personal training certification. i was a basketball coach and assistant softball coach for 3a Jena High school. i was there for a year, and then i married my best friend drew Pendarvis and soon after we got married, he was offered a full-time job in Monroe, la, so it was time for me to head back to my alma amateur. soon afterwards, back in 2009, i was offered the manager position of anytime Fitness ruston. i’ve been involved in changing lives ever since!

Ashley Butler

Ashley Butler - Assistant Manager & Thin and Healthy Director, Membership Specialist, Coach and MRT instructor. i graduated from louisiana tech university in august of 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and Health Promotions. during my journey at tech i started to struggle in what field i wanted to go into with my degree. all i knew is that i am here to serve, help others, and make a difference in the world. With the prayers and support from my husband, family and friends, i received a call from the anytime Fitness owner with some great news that would change my life and give me the direction i had been praying for. He asked me to become the Thin & Healthy director. The fact that i am doing a job that is helping people achieve their goal is a tremendous blessing for my life. Brent Bernard went out on a limb to get me in his gym, and i could not be happier to be a part of such an excellent team.

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25

getting heart healthy

It’s time to take the first step!

By: Dr. Mark Napoli Tres Bella Contributor

Women face unique health challenges throughout their lives as most are aware. They possess the ability to cope with changes and stressors that men are simply incapable of biologically handling. However in the case of cardiac health, men and women are more similar than dissimilar in their presentations of disease and in their ability to avoid it. We all as people can improve our chances of preventing heart disease or living better with it if it is present.

Heart disease is the most common cause of death in adult women in the United States and has been so for the last hundred years despite huge advances in care and survival.

Even today one in three women will experience a serious cardiac event after the age of fifty. Yet there is no public demand for screening even though cardiac risks dwarf the risks of diseases like breast cancer, where the risk is one in nine.

Your insurance company and your government have no plans to mandate or pay for cardiac screening in individuals without symptoms; and there is no universally accepted, onesize-fits-all, reliable method to do so. Furthermore, screening does not actually change an individual’s future risk.

So if the prevalence of heart disease is so high and there is not a simple way to detect it before it becomes advanced and symptomatic then how should we approach this vexing problem? Be assured that the answer to this problem does not reside in a hospital sponsored bus driving around town hawking bargain basement “scans on the go”.

Assume You Are at Risk

The answer to the above question is simple. Assume that you have heart disease in the form of some degree of atherosclerosis, because if you are over the age of twenty then chances are you are right. The majority of Americans already have demonstrable heart disease after their teenage years.

The key is to understand one’s risk for cardiovascular disease, and then to reduce the risks that you can modify. There are simple ways to do this.

26

Tobacco:

The first task is ask yourself if you use tobacco in any form.

If the answer is yes then you belong to a group of people, roughly 20% of the adult population, that are chiefly responsible for the most common cause of preventable death and disability in the United States. This group is also a major driver for the double-digit percentage increases in our commercial insurance rates as well as the crushing costs to our ever expanding government run healthcare entitlement system. If you smoke or use tobacco, then quit. It is a selfish habit that adversely affects all around you. It is very difficult to break this particular drug addiction. But it is by no means impossible. The day after you quit, your risk of a heart attack drops by about fifty percent and continues to decline thereafter.

Physical Inactivity Very few adults in the U.S. exercise to a meaningful degree.

Even fewer actually know what the amount of exercise is required that will actually translate into good health. Activity and exercise are not one and the same. Cleaning dishes, getting dressed, pulling weeds, and grocery shopping are activities. They will not reduce your risk of heart attack of stroke. They will not make you stronger or improve your stamina. They will not slow the decline in your physical abilities as you age. I wish these types activities counted for some benefit but unfortunately the do not. The American College of Cardiology has set guidelines for leisure time physical activity that observational and randomized scientific trials have demonstrated to reduce risk of events. They recommend training your way to:

• Thirty minutes per day.

• At least five days per week.

• Reaching a level of moderate intensity.

Duration, frequency, intensity. These are the only important goals for exercise. Moderate intensity simply means reaching a level of exercise that requires a brief recovery period after it is complete. The distance you achieve, your heart rate, and the type of aerobic activity are irrelevant. Choose something

that your are already able to do, that is enjoyable, and that is safe. Then do it regularly. Start easy and brief. There is no finish line. Exercise is a lifestyle choice. Build your time and intensity level slowly so that you realize success instead of frustration. Be creative. Shrug off your excuses.

There is no better way to decrease your risk of future illness and age related disability than a year round exercise regimen.

High Cholesterol and High Blood Pressure Overwhelming evidence in medical literature has proven a direct correlation linking cholesterol levels and blood pressure levels with the risk of heart attacks and vascular related events. This amount of data creates confusion about what to do and what to know. So much confusion in fact that people decide not to worry about it of leave it up to their doctors to worry about it for them. The answers reducing risk and improving health are also very simple.

First know what is normal. Normal blood pressure for most people is less than 140/80 mmHg. If your numbers exceed this then you have high blood pressure. Cholesterol numbers can be confusing. Some care providers test for dozens of lipid values to better understand risk. All you need to remember is the LDL (low density lipoprotein, bad cholesterol, “Lousy� cholesterol). Your LDL should be less that 100 mg/dl. If you are a diabetic then your LDL should be less than 70 mg/dl. The rest of the lipid numbers actually mean very little compared to this number. If your number exceeds this value then you have high cholesterol.

Next know your own numbers. Know them like you know your bank balance. They are just as important. Each of us should have our cholesterol and blood pressure checked over the age of twenty at least once per year if it remains normal. If its not normal then you need to collaborate with a qualified health care provider to make them normal.

Why Bother?

Changing one’s lifestyle to incorporate healthy habits affects people in three terms in life. The first is in the short term. It simply makes you feel better. People who address the above factors have more stamina to handle day to day stress, they sleep better at night, they think better, and they become ill and injured less often. These effects occur within a few weeks. Next is the intermediate term. People who address the above health issues spend much less money and time seeking healthcare. It could be a matter of tens of thousands of dollars and days or months of your life within a decade. Last is the long term. People who live tobacco free, who exercise as a habit, and who control their cholesterol and blood pressure tend to have a high quality of life as they age. They care for their family instead of become a burden to them. They live in their own homes instead of a nursing home. They tend to compress suffering to the very end rather than drag it out over years. They leave a beneficial legacy instead of a trail of debt for their loved ones.

Getting Started

Just like saving money, the sooner you decide to make these changes and become healthier the more benefit you will accrue. But its never too late to begin. The most difficult step is the first.

The above brief article is provided as a general call to action. More specific and detailed information could fill a book. For you as an individual its up to you to decide how much help that you need. Please seek the advice of a qualified health professional like your primary care physician before attempting activities to which you are not accustomed or if you have known or suspected health conditions that could affect your plans for better living.

27

Niven Morgan A New Line for Men

by Mark Sanders

Although traveling the world’s most exotic places to develop fragrances for a luxury line of products can be tiresome, fragrance designer Niven Morgan divides his time between his Dallas-based office, multiple markets as well as the stores, boutiques and hotels that carry his products.

Without a doubt, he’s a busy guy, but when you are lucky enough to catch him, even for a visit by phone, he has all the charm and warmth one would expect from his Louisiana upbringing.

As a long term fan of his fragrances for home, bath and body, I have followed Morgan’s career and his blossoming fragrance line which started simply and elegantly with candles, lotions and a few other bath and body products. The quality of the product quickly made them stand out among competitors, though the packaging and promotion was simple, effective and as tailored as he appears. His love of art, interior design, culture and fashion are obvious in every aspect of his product development and design. Loyal customers still say, “I love Blue,” or “Gold is Mom’s favorite,” referring to two of his cornerstone fragrances.

I have enjoyed his candles and his culinary hand sets for years, and I’ve given countless Paris Blue candles for gifts, so there was no doubt that I would be thrilled to learn of his new line of products for men.

Sharing his time with me while he ran errands, the designer gave me the background behind the development and the general concept of the new line. “I want younger, healthier looking skin, not complicated skin care. I don’t want to give up on a great complexion.”

The line is simple and easy, comprised of only four products: Prime Time Pre-Shave Cream; Razor-Made Shave Cream; Double Play Cleanser and Exfoliator and the Daily Dose Face Moisturizer.

Prime Time Pre-Shave Cream was created to accelerate a smoother shave paired with Niven Morgan’s Razor-Made Shave Cream. The pre-shave cream is amazing--slick and simple. The combination of shea butter, natural extracts and essential oils blend together to create the unique formula. It is the first step to the perfect shave. “This is cool. I wanted a new shaving experience and this oil and cream work together for a closer, more comfortable shave.”

The second in the line is the Razor-Made Shave Cream. Simply stated, it’s man made with men in mind. The razor literally glides into a smooth shave with a gentle blend of aloe vera, shea butter and calming botanicals.

Natural oils condition and prepare the skin for a closer, smoother shave.

Morgan added, “I wanted a shave cream that I wanted to use. It’s simple, smart shaving.”

28

Double Play Cleanser and Exfoliator cleanses and exfoliates skin in one easy step. It’s developed to brighten your reflection with smoother, healthier looking skin. Aloe vera and glycerin are combined with exfoliating jojoba beads and natural extracts to create this gentle, pH balanced cleanser. This step is probably the most neglected in the majority of men’s shaving regimen.

Perhaps my favorite in the line is the rich, nourishing Daily Dose Face Moisturizer. Call it the icing on the cake, but this light, refreshing blend of anti-aging peptides, vitamins, natural extracts and essential oils is the daily step to help fight aging. Who could argue with that?

The look and feel of Niven Morgan’s Men’s Line is clean and simple. The products are fragrance free with a blend of natural, calming botanical ingredients, sure to provide a shaving experience like none other.

Look for Niven Morgan products locally, including candles, soaps, lotions and home fragrances, each inspired by his global excursions and his own experiences. For Him products will be available at The Muffin Tin in Monroe, as well as online at www.NivenMorgan.com. For other retailers near you, please use the “Store Locator” resource on the company’s website.

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A. LAP-BAND surgery is day surgery. Most patients return to normal activity within one week.

A full surgical recovery usually occurs within two weeks.

Q. What kind of trauma will my body incur during the LAP-BAND procedure?

A. LAP-BAND surgery is the least invasive surgical option for weightloss. There is no intestional re-routing. You experience no cutting or stapling of the stomach wall or bowel. The procedure requires only small incidions and minimal scarring.

Patients experience a reduced amount of pain, a shorter length of hospital stay and a quick recovery period.

Q. What are the risks and side effects of having the LAP-BAND surgery?

A. The risks and side effects are significantly lower with LAP-BAND compared to other weightloss surgeries. There is a low risk of nutritonal deficiencies associated with gastric bypass. There is also a reduced risk of hair loss.

Q. Is it true you can adjust the tightness of the LAP BAND, controlling the amount of weight loss?

A. The LAP-BAND allows for an individualized degree of restriction for the ideal rate of weight loss based on the patient’s needs. Adjustmets to the degree of tightness of the LAP-BAND can be performed without additional surgery. The LAPBAND supports pregnancy by allowing stomach outlet size to be opened to accommodate increased nutritional needs. The LAP-BAND is the only surgical option desighed to help maintain long-term weight loss.

Q. Is the LAP-BAND procedure reversible?

A. The LAP-BAND is removable at any time. The stomach and other anatomy are generally restored to their original forms and functions.

Q. Is the LAP-BAND an effective form of longterm weight loss?

A. More than 450,000 procedures have been performed worldwide. It has become the stan-

dard of care of surgeons around the world.

Academic publications with up to ten years of follow-up have journaled the LAP-BAND .

Q. Do insurance and health plans cover the LAPBAND procedure?

A. Today many health plans cover the LAP-BAND procedure, which means most, if not all, the costs will be paid for. Each health plan will have certain criteria that need to be met before you can actually have the surgery. Lap Band For Less can provide financing or assistance with loans to meet the costs of the procedure. Credit cards can also be used to pay for the procedure.

The LAP-BAND OPerATiON:

The idea behind the LAP-BAND operation is to create a small pouch in the upper part of the stomach with a controlled and adjustable stoma, without stapling, thus limiting food intake.

A gastric band device is introduced through tiny (1 cm) incisions in the abdomen and is placed around the upper part of the stomach.

The resulting pouch (or the “new stomach”) dramatically reduces the functional capacity of the stomach. The band has a balloon from the inside that is adjustable and can reduce stoma size, thus prolonging the period of fullness.

The operation is performed under general anesthesia and can last between 30 minutes and 1 hour. The LAP-BAND is fitted around the uppermost part of the stomach, forming a 15cc to 20cc small pouch. It is designed so that it can be inflated or deflated at any time after the operation. This helps the patient continually lose weight until they reach their goals. The restriction takes place in a radiology suite and normally takes 15 minutes. This simple procedure is painless. Saline is injected into a port placed under the skin in the wall of the stomach. The tube that comes off of the band leads to the port.

ADjuSTABLE WEIghT LoSS

once placed around the stomach, tubing connects the LAP-BAND to an access port fixed beneath the skin of the abdomen. This allows the surgeon to change the stoma size by adding or subtracting saline inside the inner balloon through the access port. This adjustment process helps determine the rate of weight loss.

If the band is too loose and weight loss is inad-

BEFORE

equate, adding more saline can reduce the size of the stoma to further restrict the amount of food that can move through. If the band is too tight, the surgeon will remove some saline to loosen the band and reduce the amount of restriction. The diameter of the band can be modified to meet individual needs, which changes as weight is lost. For example, pregnant patients can expand their band to accommodate a growing fetus, while patients who aren’t experiencing significant weight loss can have the bands tightened. The LAP-BAND System is also the only adjustable weight loss surgery available in the united States to help maintain restriction and keep the weight off long-term.

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29

HISTORY ON LAKE LOUIE

by Carolyn Files

Sicily Island is a pass-through town on your way to Natchez. It may not look too interesting just driving through but there is a lot of history in that area.

Joe Raymond Peace, well known coach, lived there. The Peck family, well known in agricultural and political circles called Sicily Island home. Sonny Gilbert, another politician who married Barbara Peck, lives in Sicily Island.

Back several hundred years ago Indians called the area home.

Ferry Place Plantation, located on Lake Louie, was built by John Lovelace(1740-1816) for his wife Anne Hughson (1742-1821), who was a cousin of George Washington. The Peck family is descended from this couple: William S. Peck and Clarendon Peck built homes within sight of the original home. A legend states that Native Americans ferried across the lake at this point; hence the name of the plantation. Today the home is on the National Register.

There are Indian mounds in the yard surrounding Ferry Plantation as well as in the yard of nearby homes. Signs telling of the Peck Mounds can be read--telling that they are on the Louisiana archeological trail. Will Peck, a local historian, had a wonderful collection of artifacts found in the area.

I became aware of the history of the area when visiting cousins living on “The Place.” Hearing stories of the Lovelaces, the Kirklands (who built a plantation nearby), Pine Hill located near Norris Springs fascinated me when I visited as a child. Said cousins showed me the different places, weaving fact with fiction (knowing them!). I didn’t realize then the amount of Southern Gothic surrounding the area, but it is there as you learn family backgrounds.

When heading to Natchez sometime, take time to drive down to Lake Louie or up in the hills to Norris Springs and Pine Hill. The history is there.

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26 30

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Open Tues. - Sat • 10am - 5pm 318-255-3639 |202 North Vienna St | Ruston

“Vision is our Clear Focus�

Cooksey Vision and Cosmetic Center has offered cosmetic treatments in this area for more than 10 years. We have recently added Dr. Richard Apt to our practice. Dr. Cooksey and Dr. Apt are both board certified with the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Surgical procedures include eye lid lifts and brow lifts. We offer cosmetic services such as Botox and Restylane treatments, laser treatments for hair reduction, brown spot removal, wrinkle removal, and laser vein removal. Please call today to schedule a free consultation.

Contact us today for help in removing Age Spots, Brown Spots & Freckles I not only work for Dr. Cooksey, I am also a patient. I take advantage of the services we offer such as Restylane, Botox, and laser treatments. ~ Barbara, Surgical Nurse & satisfied patient

Cooksey Vision & CosmetiC Center 1310 Nor th 19th Street M onroe, LA 71201 | (318) 388-2020 | cookseymd.com

31

Can you say “HOT, HOT, HOT”! Louisiana Delta Ballet presents the 5th annual Dancing With The

Louisiana Stars and this year’s contestant’s are heating up the floor. Fifteen local celebrities are set to take the stage Friday February 8th to compete for this years Dancing With The Stars title.

Taking the stage this year will be Joe Horn- Retired NFL Player New Orleans Saints, Linnea Fayard Allen- Former Miss Louisiana and runner up to Miss America - Cultural communications Officer for Community Trust Bank, Becky Woods- Head of Marketing And Trainer Gorilla Fitness of West Monroe, Mark Taylor- Head Tennis Pro Forsythe Park, James McCready, Owner Rain The Salon, Johnna Nelson- Former LSU Cheerleader , Territory Manager Bristol- Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals, Courtney Hornsby - President West Monroe Chamber of Commerce, Ben Hickey - Curator Masuer Museum, Cruise Flowers- Accountant Dewitt, French & Giger. Mark Boyle- Anchor KNOE News, Coach Chad Swanburg- Head Coach and Athletic Director St. Fredricks High School, Carlfred Giles - Emedia Manager KTVE Region 10 News, Daniel Echols- Credit Risk Manager Specialist Community Trust Bank, Greg Manley Jr. - State Farm Agent and Dr. Dan Holt- Holt Chiropractic Care.

Committee Chair Kim Leija and Co-Chair’s Jeannie Ballance, Kim Duke and Julie Lewis are excited about this year’s line up. And with the help of Committee members- Patti Nelson, Michelle Kolb, Mica Walker O’Niel, Karen Oliver, Janelle Snellings, Tammy Soignier , and Catherine Chance. February 8th promises to be an evening you won’t soon forget! LDB Artistic Director, Missy Crain is thrilled to have the continued support of the community for this exciting event and says this year will be the best yet!

And this year’s judges are: Drew Alleman- LSU Place Kicker/ Last Year’s Top Five Dancer, Mayor Jamie Mayo, John Blunschi- Owner Gorilla Fitness/ Kron Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Gregory Hudgins- Social Columnist New Star/ Interior Designer- Vice President of Northeast Louisiana Art’s Council and Tommy Usrey- President Northeast Louisiana Arts Council.

Come watch the stars heat up the stage at the Monroe Civic Center’s Arena!

Table prices are: • VIP Elite $1,000.00 includes table for 8 your choice of seating in the arena, Entrance to VIP party for eight guest’s and wine service • VIP Tables are $500 for table of 8, Entrance to VIP party for 8 guest’s and open bar, • General Admission is $25 VIP party and seating at 6:00 show starts at 7:00. Tickets and table reservations can be made by calling (318) 3451155. Tickets are available at Missy Crain School of Dance, Opus Broadcasting, Gorilla Fitness/ Kron Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Community Trust Bank on Forsythe or Rain The Salon.

32 28

You have been telling her for months she holds the key to your heart.

TIME TO PROVE IT.

G

Grassi’s Fine Jewelry

Owners: Jamie Grassi | Dewayne Warner 318.322.9800 2122 Forsythe Avenue Monroe, La. 71201 33

Find a New You AT iENCOURAGE FITNESS

I

n 2009, Shari Isaac Littleton was shocked when she spotted herself in a photo from an office party. “How in the world did I get here?” she thought. That was her wake-up call. Shari joined a gym and unwittingly embarked on an incredible journey. In three short years, she quit her desk job as an accountant to open her own fitness studio. Her dream was to “pay it forward” by creating an atmosphere where fun and inspiration overshadow the intimidation that many people feel at a traditional gym. As a result, iEncourage Fitness was born. iEncourage is for anyone seeking positive self-esteem through fitness and nutrition. Classes are provided for all levels of fitness from beginner to advanced, large to small, and young to old. Qualified, compassionate instructors provide encouragement and accountability. Clients have full access to a dedicated coach via email, phone, and texts.

Clients are often surprised to find that there are no membership fees or contracts at iEncourage. Fees are on a class by class basis. The studio provides thirty-minute lunch classes as well as longer evening and Saturday classes. There is even a Friday evening class for $2! iEncourage is the first fitness studio in the area to offer certified instruction in PiYo and Turbo Kick. PiYo, an innovative blend of Pilates, yoga, dance

training, and sports conditioning, provides a unique approach for improving balance and strength. Turbo Kick is a super fun, safe and effective cardio workout combining shadow boxing, kickboxing, sports drills and simple dance moves.

Curvy Girl Fitness classes are designed specifically for ladies who are size 16 and up. These classes provide encouragement, accountability, nutrition suggestions, and scripture in a small, non-judgmental group environment.

The Friday evening Move It, Groove It Dance Party class is a fun cardio dance class where it’s all about having a great time while burning calories.

Today Shari is certified to teach in several specialties including Turbo Kick and PiYo Strength classes. She is also an All-Star Presenter, and an ISSA Certified Specialist in Fitness Nutrition.

Shari would welcome the opportunity to help you get your fitness and nutrition on track in 2013. She truly believes Philippians 4:13- “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” iEncourage Fitness is located at the corner of North 6th Street and Louisville Avenue in Monroe, and can be reached at 318-267-7106. For more information, visit their website at www.iencouragefitness.com.

Class is in session A CLASS SChEDULE ThAT WOrKS WITh YOUr bUSY LIFESTYLE

• Turbo Kick - a mix of kicks, punches, great music, cardio and dance moves • PiYo Strength - mind/body for people who want to sweat without the high room temperature!

• Move It, Groove It Dance Party: Learn FUN line dances and the latest dance moves while you get fit • Curvy Girls Fitness - NOW IN SESSION! • Nutrition coaching 34

Corner of N. 6th and Louisville Ave., Monroe 318-267-7106 | www.iencouragefitness.com

• 30 min. lunchtime classes - $5 • 60 minute evening and Saturday classes -$10 • Friday evening Move It, Groove It, Dance Party classes are ONLY $2

31

the

THE QUILTED HISTORY

QUILTED HISTORY

by BA Tripi Tres Bella Magazine

The Quilted History is a non-profit organization which educates and enlightens people about the cultural history of the African American experience across the nation.

Organized in 1999, the Quilted History is an exhibit of artifacts that spans from the days of slavery through integration. The artifacts include African mask, slave shackles, an actual plow, a slave bed, and actual papers from the purchase of slaves and coded quilts from the Underground Railroad era.

The Quilted History is owned by Carolyn Williams a native of Strong, Arkansas. Not only is Williams’ collection of artifacts intriguing but Williams herself is an extraordinary person. She is the daughter of Louise Williams-Smith and the late Carl L. Smith Sr. Carolyn graduated from the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff with a major in Institutional Dietetics and a minor in Chemistry/Mathematics. Upon graduation from college she joined the United States Navy, where she subsequently retired.

Shortly after retirement, she became an avid collector and successful researcher of the pieces that connected her to her roots.

As time passed, she decided to share her collection of artifacts and her personal and professional history with others.

In addition to collecting artifacts, Williams also quilts. She has made more than 50 quilts that tell the story of black history.

Carolyn explains and shows you how they secretly stitched codes into quilts that

Photos by Carter Photography

could be read and used by the Underground Railroads. One of the quilts actually dates that far back. Carolyn has a trunk that her great grandmother, Rebecca, passed down that holds an old quilt that tells her family history, and gave her the title for her organization, The Quilted History.

Carolyn says, “My quilts are my hopes, dreams, thoughts, and aspirations stitched and quilted as an expression of my life’s experiences. These quilts vary in looks and tales that can largely be understood through their names such The Log Cabin, The Trip Around, The North Star, The Bow Tie, The Flower Garden, The Cross Road and the Funeral Quilt.

African American Children were taught to Piece a Nine Patch Quilt first.

Carolyn has the documents where her great great great grandmother, her husband and their three children were sold as slaves in 1836. She owns a picture of her father’s great grandmother being sold at an auction holding her tag. Carolyn’s great grandmother told her many stories passed down through the family when she lived with Carolyn’s family during the last years of her life. She died in the ‘80s and lived to be 105.

When Carolyn’s ancestors were freed they became “croppers” and later bought the land they farmed. Carolyn was born in the old family Dogtrot style house surround by the artifacts and stories of the past.

American history was made on the evening of November 4 four years ago when Barack Obama became the first African American to win the presidency, but for Carolyn Williams, history was irretrievably lost on the same night when a portion of her private collection of black history artifacts were destroyed by an alleged act of arson.

Carolyn Williams is a remarkable person and in her own words, “My quilts are like books with no written words, they tell stories but never speak, they represent the dried tears of a thousand years, my quilts show the images and stories of my ancestors who silently sleep.”

Editor’s note: Carolyn Williams’ husband, three of her four children, her children’s spouses, and her two brothers have all served or are presently serving in the military. She has four granddaughters and two great grandsons.Carolyn Williams’ asked that her strong belief and relationship with Christ be duly mentioned

37

it’s

Raining monroe in downtown

38

Photos by Carter Photography

The DOWNSTAIRS gallery + studio at 137 Art Alley was opened in September 2012 by resident artist Julie Pearson to feature emerging and established artists working in all mediums through solo and themed group exhibitions. The 1,000 square foot gallery with twenty foot ceilings and storefront at the end of Art Alley creates a vibrant accessible exhibition space, enlivened with musical performances outdoors.

Pearson, an architect from Dallas, Texas, has worked with artist coops for twenty years, and wants to bring that vitality to Monroe, with exhibitions and working studios, including her own, available to the public throughout the year, and not just during crawls which draw large crowds, but don’t necessarily engage the broader public or art patrons of the community.

Pearson’s typical works in oils or graphite can be found in her studio and the DOWNSTAIRS and UPSTAIRS galleries, however her passion for mosaics and sculpture will spill over into Art Alley.

Her first exhibition, OUTSIDE (R) IN featured the contemporary work of “outsider” (self-taught) artists Skip Noah in Austin, Texas, Louisiana Folk Artist Wendell Wilson from Chatham, and the metal sculpture of Wade Rawls. The first annual ALL SOULS DAY juried competition opened on November 2, 2012, featuring the works of 18 local artists in all media.

DOWNSTAIRS recently featured the group exhibition, UNWRAPPED | Celebrating Nudes, a group exhibition, which opened on December 6, 2012 at the crawl. Artists included Dana Law, Austin Bantel, MC Davis, Andrea May, Rachel Barnes, Victoria Smith, Rick Sikes, Robbie Jones, Sasha Shestko, Stephanie Jaie, Emmanuel Anthony Percy Adlain, and Sophia Maras, with photography by Burg Ransom, Jess Van Alstyne and Larry Cavalier, and beautiful hand-crafted wood sculpture and furniture

by Phillip Williams.

Upcoming events include the group exhibition EL CORAZON (The Heart) opening February 7, 2013, and A CLOCKWORK STRANGE, a steampunk event and exhibition celebrating Victorian futurism, which opens April 4, 2013.

About upcoming group exhibition EL CORAZON: This group exhibition will feature passionate works inspired by the human heart (el corazón), a significant theme in eastern and western cultures and world religions. From sacred hearts to anahata chakras, from Eros to Saint Valentine and the tradition of courtly love, from bound and chained, broken, bruised, and empty, to mended and overflowing, all matters of the heart will be explored (without an angiogram).

39

An Evening to Remember...

An Evening with Michael Honig Louis Honig purchased a vineyard in Napa Valley in the early 60’s in hopes of retiring from the advertising business by selling grapes to neighboring vineyards and making wine from his vineyard in Rutherford. Before he could realize his dream, he passed away leaving the estate to his children and grandchildren.

The family was going to sell the estate in the 80’s, but Louis’ grandson Michael decided to leave school to manage the business in honor of his grandfather’s legacy.

Today it is a thriving family business that is owned and operated by two generations of Honig’s. You can find Honig wine on many fine restaurant wine lists throughout the country.

Photos by Carter Photography

40

Thank you Guy Campbell for bringing the wine and such a fine person to our area!

The

Krewe of Janus: An Overview

By: Rachael Foust

The Krewe of Janus was founded in 1984 by a group of Twin City Jaycee’s. Since then it has been an enduring entity in the Monroe/West Monroe area. It is not only fun to be a member but it gives one a sense of community. It also allows its members to give back, In 1990 the Krewe started sponsoring a charity each year.

In years past these charities have been as diverse as The Dixie Die Hard Special Needs softball team to the Cancer Foundation League. This year’s charity is The Food Bank of North Louisiana’s Backpack program.

The Krewe raises money for these charities in a number of ways, the two main ones being Bingo and Texas Hold ‘Em. Bingo is held on Tuesday and Saturday nights and on Friday mornings. These games take place at the Bingo Hall on the corner of Desiard and Stanley St. in Monroe.

The Krewe of Janus also holds five Texas Hold ‘Em tournaments a year. These occur at the Krewe den on Louisville Ave. every other month beginning in April through December on the first Friday of each month.

There are several events held by the Krewe of Janus each year for its members.

There is a membership drive Crawfish Boil held annually to encourage members to bring guests that are considering membership. There is a yearly cocktail party to announce the Royal Court and the King and Queen.

This year’s King and Queen of Janus XXX are Lee and Carla Rodgers. There is a Twelfth Night party to ring in the Mardi Gras season. This event always occurs twelve nights after Christmas. There is the Grand Ball that showcases the Royal Court and King and Queen in all of their regalia.

Last but certainly not least is the Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras parade held each year. This brings much fun, tourism, and revenue to the Twin Cities every year.

The parade is not only fun for the Krewe’s members but for every attendee.

There are floats from members, businesses, and private parties. All of these floats participate for best float. Every one dresses in costume, especially masks, and beads are thrown from each float to the crowds that eagerly await them. The crowd numbered 175,000 people in 2011.

The parade theme for this year’s Mardi Gras parade is Carnivale Extravanganza.

It will be held on February 2, 2013 beginning at 6:00 pm. See you there and as always

“Lassiez bon temp roulez”!

41

Learning Tech presented an inspirational evening with J.R. Martinez.

J.R. was severely burned in Iraq when the Humvee he was driving hit a land mine. After this life changing event he goes on to inpire others. “You realize that it is what inside a person that matters the most�.

42

Find your smile again...

Come join us at North Monroe.

Sunday mornings at 8:30 and 11:00am. Lifegroups at 9:45.

northmonroe.com • (318) 343-4730 • 210 Finks Hideaway Rd., Monroe, La 71203

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Monroe Chamber celebrates at the annual Christmas Party December 2012

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What dog is right for your family?

Golden retriever: Golden retrievers are another type of retriever that are popular among families.

They were originally bred to hunt and retrieve birds. They’re often eager to learn and serve and can become a dedicated family member if well exercised.

Individuals looking to add a furry companion to the family may wonder which breeds are a better fit for family life with children in the home. Breed alone does not dictate a dog’s demeanor. Every dog is unique, and how a puppy spent its formative months can be just as influential on the dog’s behavior as its breed.

Collie: Ever since “Lassie” warmed the hearts of viewers, collies have been viewed as loyal family dogs. Collies were bred for working, but they will eagerly herd children as well as livestock. Collies are generally gentle but active.

There are some breeds that are thought of as family dogs because they are patient, calm and not easily provoked. But no dog is perfect, and it often takes working together as a family to develop a sense of trust and a routine that is comfortable for all.Here is information on some of the more popular breeds of dog.

Standard poodle: Although poodles may be viewed as “froo-froo” dogs thanks to their traditional grooming style and their stereotype of being a Parisian pet, poodles are also working dogs that are very intelligent and can be easily trained.

Affectionate and patient, they often make great dogs for families.

Labrador retriever: Labrador retrievers are one of the more popular dog breeds, especially among families. Although it is thought to be a placid dog, a Lab is a member of the working class of canines and will need to be well exercised so the dog behaves well. Otherwise, the dog may be too boisterous and mischievous inside the home.

HARVEY Harvey is a cute sweet boy who was found abandoned. He has had his first set of shots and is available for adoption. $85 adoption fee applies. Neuter certificate will be provided.

Gentle giants: Newfoundlands and Bernese Mountain Dogs are two larger breeds that tend to be docile, behaving like big teddy bears. These breeds are usually very stable and easily trained, but they

may need a little encouragement to be active.

Pug: This dog is generally affectionate, loveable and even-tempered. Pugs love being part of the family and can be playful companions. They also love to nap on your lap; just be prepared for a little snoring.

Staffordshire bull terrier: Despite the perception of these dogs as being “fighting dogs,” historically they are loyal family dogs. When well trained and raised correctly, including proper socialization, bull terriers are not typically aggressive. However, it is important to note that they are a dominant breed and do well in single-dog households. They may become dog-aggressive.

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today in history

Soldiers tried to change the flow of the Mississippi!

By E. Orum Young, Attorney BA in History, NLU 1971

O

ne hundred fifty years ago, right here, our people suffered greatly by an invasion, armed hostilities, and a battle to capture the neighboring town of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

That town, which overlooks the high bluffs of the Mississippi River, just to the east of us, was the key to the Confederacy’s supply of beef and grain from Texas. Without Vicksburg in Southern hands, Mexican trade could not reach the Southern people.

Lincoln, understood that control of Vicksburg, and our area, was essential for a northern victory.

He reportedly said “Vicksburg is the key….The war can never be brought to a close until the key is in our pocket….We can take all the northern ports of the Confederacy, and they can still defy us from Vicksburg. “ His biographers tell us that Lincoln probably visited Vicksburg as a young man in his travels by flatboat from Illinois to New Orleans.

Union troops were under the command of recently appointed Ulysses S. Grant. He sent William T. Sherman, former president of LSU, and later of “marching through Georgia” infamy (who could never understand why Southerners after the war refused to shake his hand) on a naval assault down the Mississippi River to the bluffs at Chickasaw Bayou, north of town. They failed miserably.

Grant then attempted to take the town by an overland advance; however, the Confederate “Wizard of the saddle” (and possibly another

kind of “imperial wizard” after the war), Nathan Bedford Forrest, destroyed his supply lines in Mississippi. Protected by the high bluffs of the river on the west, and swamps on the north, the heavily fortified town was a citadel on the “Father of Waters”.

Grant took 45,000 troops on the Louisiana side of the river (that’s a lot of men) and attempted at Young’s Point (apparently no relation to my Mississippi Scots-Irish Youngs), to dig a canal to change the flow of the river. Who really thought that would work? Although I’ve never seen them, I understand that their remains are still visible today. That was another failure.

By that time, northern papers accused Grant of being lazy, stupid, drunk (possibly true), and demanded his removal from command. During that time, the people of Madison, Tensas and Carroll parishes (East Carroll and West Carroll were still one parish) saw widespread destruction of their property; Monroe and surrounding areas were variously occupied by defending and opposing forces.

Maybe someday, we’ll talk about how the defenders and townspeople ate rats, and why many Southerners never celebrated the fourth of July until the 1940s. Ours is a rich heritage. We have Jesse James, Bonnie, Clyde, and a host of other villains and heroes, some of whom are our ancestors. I’ll probably butcher the quote, but “In the South, the past is not dead; it’s not even past.” I guess that’s why we get history degrees, but then can’t find any history companies that are hiring.

‘Til next time...

Step Back In Time With a Trip To Oak Grove’s

Fiske Theatre

By Adam Holland

If you are looking for something to do on the weekend there is nothing better than taking a short drive to Oak Grove, La. where you will be treated to small town charm that seems to jump right off the pages of a Norman Rockwell painting.

Anchoring the Historic District of Oak Grove is one of Northeast Louisiana’s most recognizable landmarks, The Fiske Theatre. With her flashing neon lights and ultra-modern art-deco design she lights up the town ThursdaySaturday nights with the biggest motion pictures in the industry.

Designed by architect BW Stevens in 1950 the Fiske radiates the art-deco extravagance of the era. Though she is 62 years old, once you step inside you will be treated to the most modern and well equipped movie theatre in the region.

Fresh off of a $100,000 restoration, that was funded by private donations and volunteer labor from people across the region, the Fiske has Southern Comfort and that 1950’s Hollywood Atmosphere down to a science.

From the moment you walk in the door you will be greeted by the friendliest staff in the business and when you step into her auditorium you will not be disappointed as she features new plush cushioned seating with over 36” of leg room between rows. She also features the latest in digital projection and is the only theatre north of New Orleans that features Dolby 7.1 surround sound the latest in cinema sound technology. The Fiske also boasts one of the largest screens in North Louisiana measuring 18’x33’.

When she opened her doors at the new location in 1950 she was recognized

by Motion Picture Exhibitors Catalog as being the most modern and wellappointed theatre in the nation, as noted by a plaque displayed in the lobby.

After her latest round of renovations, if that magazine was still around, she very well could be given that honor once again.

Not only will you be impressed with your experience at the theatre you will also be impressed with its prices at the concession stand. At the Fiske you don’t have to take out a loan for popcorn; you can get a Coke, popcorn and candy for less than $10. Tickets are only $6.50 for general admission, $5.50 for senior citizens (55 and up) and children six and under are admitted for $3.75.

Show times are Thursday-Saturday at 7 pm with a Saturday afternoon matinee at 4 pm and Sunday afternoon matinee at 2 pm.

To keep up to date with the Fiske like her on Facebook at facebook.com/ fisketheatre or call the movie line at 318-428-8289.

If you hang around after the movie, odds are you can talk Adam Holland, Theatre Operator, into giving you a tour of the projection room where you can see where the magic happens.

The Fiske Theatre is owned by the West Carroll Chamber of Commerce and operated by Holland Entertainment LLC. While you are in town don’t miss your opportunity to get a Frosty Coke at the Little Freezer, Oak Grove’s original drive in which opened in 1950, or dine in a turn of the century Missouri Pacific Train Depot at Johnny’s Pizza. We will have more on those hot spots in coming issues.

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ARE YOUR ASSETS AT RISK OF THEFT?

by J. Michael Inzina, CPA, CGFM, CGMA

Over the years, one thing I have clearly learned is that many small business owners never consider theft of their assets to be a real threat. Most entrepreneurs will buy commercial insurance for fire and similar risks of damage to assets, but rarely purchase fidelity bond coverage for employee dishonesty and theft of assets. And by the way, the same is true for nonprofit organizations and governmental entities!

This is the first in a series of articles that address not only why this is true, but ways that any small business owner (or their nonprofit counterparts) can deter employee theft and limit embezzlement losses through early detection.

Acknowledge that fraud can and does occur – Characteristically, fraud occurs in small organizations because management never seriously considers it as a real possibility. Consequently, the perpetrator may be provided with a substantial amount of authority and autonomy, coupled with a high degree of trust, and management sees no need to perform any review of the perpetrator’s activities or work. Often, the perpetrator has a close personal relationship with management.

Someone once said that acknowledging the problem is the first step to recovery. The same is true here. When management recognizes that fraud can occur in any organization, including its own, and that fraud can be committed by employees who have enjoyed a high level of trust, then management can be expected to perform the simple tasks that will be described in this and future articles….and don’t worry….no special skills are required. And just the knowledge that management is taking these steps will deter most people, even if they are seriously considering stealing the employer’s assets.

Pick up your own mail and bank statements – Honestly, about half of the frauds I have personally seen over the years would have been caught quickly if these two simple things were done by management. No one but management should have access to the organization’s mail. Allowing anyone else that access could enable them to divert checks payable to the organization to other accounts they may have set up without management’s knowledge (usually in a name similar to the organization’s). In addition, mail access may enable an employee to intercept inquiries from vendors and customers that were intended to make management aware of unusual or suspicious activities.

Place a “hold” on your bank statements and pick them up yourself, directly from the bank and unopened. Review the contents of the bank statement for anything unusual and investigate. What does that mean? Well, it depends, but some examples of unusual items include: • Checks that are issued out of sequence • Unknown payees • Checks that appear to have been altered • Checks signed by unauthorized persons • Missing checks Limit access to accounts receivable records – Management should password protect all records, but in particular, use electronic security to keep unauthorized persons out of accounts receivable. Particular concern should be persons who are authorized to issue credit memoranda, discounts and refunds, as these are all ways a dishonest employee can disguise misappropriation of customers’ payments. Detail records should be balance with the accounts receivable control at regular intervals and any differences should be investigated and resolved promptly. Only management should be authorized to charge off accounts deemed uncollectible, and all discrepancies reported by customers should be routed directly to management.

Accounts receivable should be aged monthly and the aging reviewed carefully by management for unexplained past due accounts.

Control and limit access to inventory – Gross profit should be monitored carefully each month, and any variances investigated. Access to physical inventory should be limited by lock and key to the extent possible and the use of video surveillance may serve as a deterrent to would-be thieves. If a perpetual inventory is maintained, periodic counts should be performed regularly and compared to the perpetual records for discrepancy.

Control the accounts payable – Management should establish and monitor approved vendor lists and periodically review them, being alert to unknown vendors, vendors with names similar to other known vendors, vendors with no physical address or telephone number in the file, or vendors whose addresses, telephone numbers or other data match those of employees.

J. Michael Inzina, CPA, CGFM, CGMA is president and CEO of Audit Litigation Training and Efficiency Consulting, Inc. (ALTEC), a consulting company serving the accounting and auditing community in audit efficiency, training, ethics and litigation support. He has over thirty-five years in public practice and is also a partner with the firm of Stagni & Company, LLC, concentrated in governments and nonprofit organizations. Mike holds a BBA in accounting from the University of Louisiana (Monroe), where he graduated summa cum laude in May 1976. He is a member of the American Institute of CPAs, the Society of Louisiana CPAs, the Association of Government Accountants and the GFOA, and earned the CEA in governmental in 1990. He was awarded the Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) designation in 1996, and the Certified Global Management Accountant (CGMA) designation in 2012.

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Feed My Sheep What would you do if you found yourself fund less? No food, warm clothing, money for necessary items such as utilities and medications? Would you know where to turn for help? In Ruston, Lincoln Parish residents have a place to assist with such needs.

For over 24 years, Christian Community Action (CCA) has strived to meet crisis or emergency needs in our community. Their mission is to follow the mandate of Jesus when He said “if you love me…feed my sheep”. CCA, a non-profit organization, strives to fulfill that mission by serving as a centralized location to help provide food, clothing and financial assistance for utility bills or medical prescriptions. Referrals and information are offered to people that require services which CCA can’t provide. DUO (Do Unto Others) is a service which provides non-emergency help with small repairs such as changing light bulbs, small plumbing leaks, weatherproof doors, etc., for elderly, widows, disabled or those of lesser means. In addition, CCA helps persons traveling who are in need of emergency lodging, food, gasoline and some transportation.

Handling the day-to-day operations are Stephanie Mitchell, executive director, and Beth Anders, administrative assistant. There is also a board of directors which is made up of 2 people from member churches, with a board of five officers.

Assisting these ladies daily is a very important group of volunteers that serve behind the scenes. But more are needed! There is a need for people willing to be trained to interact with clients. They need volunteers to give their time and talents to maintain and improve the facility, to initiate and carry out fundraisers, to collect food from churches and other groups or to sort clothing.

Almost any talent you can offer can be used by CCA! As one volunteer said, “we need ‘young legs’ to help with heavy lifting and to carry bags of grocer-

ies to cars. Some volunteers help weekly, others bi-weekly or once a month.

Even if your aid is sporadic, it’s always welcome!”

Groups such as Hunters for the Hungry and the Ruston Farmer’s Market donate food that can be dispersed. Churches collect cans of soup for “Souper Bowl Sunday”. Children have birthday parties where, instead of gifts, they ask guests to bring jars of peanut butter.

The holidays also provide a boost to the stock of supplies; however, donations are especially low during the summers. As you make your summer plans to travel, take vacations, etc., please remember to include a visit to your local food pantry with a bag of groceries for the needy!

Christian Community Action is located in Ruston’s historical district at 108 South Bonner Street. Their hours of operation are 9:00 a.m. - 12 noon, Monday-Friday. For further information or to volunteer, please contact them at (318) 251-3282.

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51

FOX TRACKS

by Carolyn Files

Well known for her Sneaky Pie Brown mysteries, Ms. Brown does an excellent job of capturing foxhunting at its best in the state of Virginia. Her most recent book, “Fox Tracks,” published in 2012, follows “Sister” Jane Arnold and her fox hunting friends from the streets of Manhattan to Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

The book opens with the Masters’ Ball at the Pierre Hotel in Manhattan.

The reader meets fox hunting characters dressed to the hilt, setting up relationships betwixt and between them. During the ball Sister and friend Tootie head for a nearby tobacco shop owned by Adolfo Galdos. High end tobacco products and jeweled cigarette cases and lighters delight their fancies. The women make their purchases, return to the ball and shortly thereafter learn that Adolfo has been murdered. The first of several murders related to Cuban run tobacco businesses.

Descriptions of fox hunts, wonderful details of the geography of the farms hunted on, the way the hounds and their lineage are worked into the book indicate Ms. Brown’s knowledge of the hunt. Horses’ bloodlines are easily worked into the story to indicate whether they are Thoroughbreds, Warmbloods, Quarter Horse crosses.

The reader gets to know these characters and pulls for them as foibles and strong points unfold in each chapter. The killer of the businessmen is not someone that would be suspected.

Ms. Brown teaches the finer points of fox hunting as she entertains and does so easily. And it IS easy for her since she is the master of foxhounds at Oak Ridge Hunt Club and is one of the directors of Virginia Hunt Week. You can visit her website at www.ritamaebrown.com.

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A Night of Champions Revolution Park Racing and Entertainment Center celebrated the successful conclusion of the 2012 racing series with a banquet at the Monroe Convention Center on Saturday, January 12, 2013. Track champions, racers, employees and special guests of the owner Mr. Gus Campbell attended the dinner and awards presentation.

Live entertainment provided by “Burnout” served as the backdrop for the evening. Staci Albritton photographed the event and also each driver in attendance for the purpose of creating a program for the track for the 2013 season. The banquet hall was decorated with framed photos of the five division champions. Decorations created by Felicia Kostelka sparkled on every table, with special reserved seating for the champions and their guests.

Frank Hoffman, master of ceremonies, kicked off the night with the pledge of allegiance and a prayer. NASCAR provided a short film opening the event featuring NASCAR president Mike Helton and Whelen Series sponsor Phil Kurze. Monica Hemphill, Revolution Park’s special events hostess, gave thanks to Mr. Campbell for opening the track. Mr. Buddy Hill from Hixson Autoplex spoke briefly about the relationship his business has developed with Revolution Park. Hixon has supplied the pace car for many of the race night events throughout the 2012 season.

Mr. Campbell gave a brief speech detailing the progress since the facility opened in 2012. Revolution Park has undergone many upgrades in the past 12 months that include paving of the parking lot, finishing the bathroom facilities in the midway, adding the balcony patio to the suites, revamping the concession stand and the souvenir stand, adding the midway concession building and adding a backstretch grandstand for the convenience of the audience in the pits. Many landscaping touches and grounds improvements are visible on the property and more are planned for the coming season.

Mr. Cambell announced the renewal of the track’s relationship with NASCAR with the late model series and also the relinquishing of the NASCAR sanctioning on the other series the track runs including the Thunderstocks and the Compacts. Mr. Campbell introduced Joe Smith as the track’s new racing director.

Plans for the upcoming season include the Battle of the Bayou for the Legends series which will be highlighted by the track’s first outdoor concert event featuring Andy Griggs, Drifting, Night of Destruction, Monster Truck Summer Nationals and the Cottonstock Music Festival dot the schedule for this year.

Throughout the night door prizes were awarded including two tickets to the Andy Griggs concert, two nights at the Mitchell Guest House in West Monroe, a racer’s lug wrench, a $100 gift card from Racing Electronics and a one year membership to INEX. Catfish Charlie’s created their delicious catfish and shrimp on site for the enjoyment of all. After dinner awards were presented to each division.

Demystifying Auto Insurance Terms

by KIm DuKe State Farm Agent

Most states require drivers to have auto insurance—but how do you know if you’re getting the right type of coverage for your needs?

Your first step is to fulfill your state’s and lender’s minimum requirements. A call to your state’s insurance commissioner’s office can get you started. Then, familiarize yourself with the different types of insurance and what each covers.

These Typically include:

Bodily injury liaBiliTy covers injuries, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damage you might cause to other drivers, passengers and/or pedestrians. It also covers court and legal fees. renTal reimBursemenT will pay for a rental vehicle if your car is not drivable after an accident. collision provides coverage for damage inflicted to your vehicle after a rollover or accident with another car or object. Coverage kicks in after a policyholder meets his or her deductible*. comprehensive provides coverage for damage to your vehicle after a non-vehicle or non-rollover incident, such as theft or weather damage. This coverage typically requires a deductible. emergency road service can cover expenses related to a breakdown, including towing. medical paymenTs and personal injury proTecTion offers compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and even funerals if you or other covered persons* are injured in a vehicle-related accident. properTy damage liaBiliTy covers damage you cause to another individual’s property while driving. This also covers court costs and legal expenses. uninsured or underinsured moTorisT coverage can provide reimbursement if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have sufficient liability insurance—or any at all.

*TerMs To Know:

premium: Payment you make to your insurance company for coverage.

Bandolero third place winner is Dawson Moore, second place is Landon O’Neal, and the track champion for this division is Dalon Moore. For the Legends division, third place winner is Chris Freeland, second plae Ronny Freeland, and track championfor this group is Christopher Freeland. For the Compact group, the third place winner is Dalton Smith, the second place winner is Cody Steen and the track champion is Kory Kulp. For the Thunderstocks the third place winner is Joe Smith, the second place winner is John Paul Carpenter and the track champion is Dennis Carpenter. For the Late Models, third place is Kevin Hogard, second place is Cole Fancher and track champion is Brandon Kelley.

covered persons: Policies generally cover the policyholder, their spouse, other relatives living in the home, and individuals driving the policyholder’s vehicle with their permission.

The banquet concluded with a prayer of thanks for blessing the past year and the safety fo the drivers and their fans.

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53

picks

A Little Taste of Spring A weekend project that’s perfect for all of you who are dreaming of the fresh tastes of spring. Mother Nature may not be ready to share her bounty but here is a little teaser that will get you through until Old Man Winter decides his visit here is done. Simple step by step instructions can be found at www.camillestyles.com

A Sign of the Times We alll have small sayings that mean a great deal to us. Here is a fun and unique way to share the whimsy with everyone. There is an ‘easy peasy’ tutorial that all of us can follow at www.southernbellesoulmountainbrideheart.blogspot.com

Colorful answer to any “Plain Jane” dresser Chase away your winter blues with a little paint and a some creativity. Do you see how gorgeous this painted dresser is? It looks like it could have come out of some unique home decor store. An easy to follow tutorial can be found at www.icantstopcrafting.com

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Finding Yourself Just Hangin’ Around?

Okay, the weather outside is more than frightful and it is a perfect time to print out those amazing pics that you have saved in your computer. Hang them in various types of frames using molding hooks and ribbon or string. We found this inspirational pic at www.brockdesigns.com

Fight back against winter skin with a homemade sugar scrub www.radmegan.blogspot.com

Make a necklace organizer using found knobs and driftwood. www.visiblymoved.blogspot.com

Perfect for any valentine or anniversary. www.littlegrayfox.blogspot.com

Turn a simple chain into a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry www.masonsroost.com

Iced branches are beautiful and help to create a whimsical atmosphere. www.makethemwonderblog.blogspot.com

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Wint er

white spring gives way t ot he colors of

Spring is finally upon us and Mother Nature is working hard to brighten up the outdoors. It is time for us to do our part inside, time to toss out the winter doldrums and throw some color around to bring new life into our inner sanctums.

It’s no secret that colors can affect your mood and your soul. Take a look around your home, are you staring at white and beige all around? Now is the time to bring the color in and boost your mood.

Always remember, an array of color is key to happiness: You need the full range of it to feel balanced and fully alive.

For those who want to stick to the organic beiges and tans, why not bring a natural color like green into the mix? A muted celery green or a bold sage can bring a crisp and clean element to the room. Mint

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is also a popular choice. Feeling wild? Bring in a few shades to set a tonal mood to the room.

Opulent color combinations can make a room look more defined and luxurious—all it takes is a few injections of the right hues!

Traditionally, rich cobalt blues and shiny gold shades go a long way with elevating the overall look of a room, as does eggplant purple.

Pick one bold color and accent it with a metal. Kelly green can also look rich when done right.

Don’t worry if you are new to color design, everyone can do it by following one simple rule... Make small color swaps and keep your aesthetics in check, and you’ll have a lust-worthy room in no time!

Green...

Yellow...

increases wealth. The primary is the color of flowers, color in nature, it corresponds lemons, and sunshine, with life’s riches. It is the color of offering fresh appeal fresh starts and growth. in each of its many variations, and can be Green is also the color of healing. used in any room for anHGTV Showhouse - contemporary - living room - - by alisha g... http://www.ho It represents nourishment and infusion of sunny decor. helps steady the body, balancing your equilibrium and encouraging Yellow increases your stability. Use it to rejuvenate focus. It is known for yourself, to promote physical and enhancing intelligence emotional well-being. and mental agility.

It can help stimulate by alisha gwen interior design conversation and clarify Pittsburgh, PA, US 15232 · 50 photos thoughts.

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HGTV Showhouse - eclectic - bedroom - - by alisha gwen interi...

1 of 1

http://www.houzz.com/p 11/25/12 8:02 AM

Colbalt Blue...

b y a l i sh a g w e n i n te r i o r d e si g n

Salmon Pink...

Pittsburgh, PA, US 15232 · 50 photos HGTV Showhouse http://www.alishagwen.com

photos by: travis neely

opens the heart. Gentle and soothing, pink is the color of love. It promotes tenderness and is a comfort in times of emotional transition. Use it in a room when you are trying to increase receptivity and understanding.

gives a sense of peace.

It dissolves tension and promotes tranquillity.

Light blue especially brings ease into the home and harmony into relationships. Wearing or surrounding yourself with it helps calm aggressive tendencies and eliminates discord.

1 of 1

by alish a g we n i n te ri o r d e si g n Pittsburgh, PA, US 15232 · 50 photos HGTV Showhouse http://www.alishagwen.com

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Making a difference in morehouse Parish Volunteers are essential to a vibrant community.

One comment that I often hear is “I don’t know what they are doing”. This usually references a perceived deficiency on something important to the speaker. My response is usually to suggest that they get involved. I have never been able to define who “they” are but we have plenty of people working to make things better.

By Kay King, CEO Morehouse Economic Development Corporation 101 South Franklin St. Suite A Bastrop, LA Phone: 383-4000 morehouseedc@att.net

Kay King has been employed by the MEDC for the past eight years. She is a graduate of Northeast Louisiana University and has a Masters Degree in Community and Economic Development from the University of Central Arkansas. She has also completed the three-year program at Community Development Institute in Conway Arkansas.

Morehouse Parish is blessed with a multitude of volunteers that work on everything from organizing events to renovating buildings. I am often asked how we motivate our citizens to participate. I am never sure how to answer that but we have some resident “bull dogs” that never seem to sleep.

The great thing about the Bastrop is the size is large enough to have most amenities that you need but it is small enough to have that home town feeling of community. What you do as a group or individual can really make a visible difference.

Among many of our active groups is the Keep Morehouse Beautiful organization. An affiliate of Keep Louisiana Beautiful, this group of volunteers takes on many ambitious projects including community based clean-ups. We have a great parish-wide solid waste collection program but there are always the mystery tires and piles that appear or accumulate over time.

Through their collection drives, tons of debris has been removed from neighborhoods and rural areas

for proper disposal or recycling. Projects this past year included the first community organized clean-up of Bayou Bartholomew. They held a “Boatin’ on the Bayou” kayak event to raise awareness of the Bayou that emphasized clean scenery for outdoor recreational events. It was also a great event to showcase the Chemin-a-Haut State Park.

Keep Morehouse Beautiful has recently worked with property owners to remove derelict structures along the main corridor that draws traffic from Sterlington and Monroe. Making a positive first impression is important to bringing new developments. They have achieved big results while working with local government, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and other organizations.

If you are interested in finding a place to make an impact there are some great real estate values in Morehouse Parish. Properties offer opportunities for that hobby farm, outdoor recreation or just space to enjoy fresh air and the rural lifestyle. You have the necessities of life close by but are also within a short drive to the Monroe area. Check it out, you may find an opportunity to make a difference.

Wherever you live, volunteer and serve your community. The best sales agent for your community is you.

Morehouse Parish and Morehouse Economic Development Corporation Welcomes our newest corporate citizen.

Drax Biomass Announces Energy Project to Result in More than 200 New Direct and Indirect Jobs for Morehouse Parish Project producing wood-based pellets near Bastrop for U.K. energy generation will include Baton Rouge shipping facility and total capital investment of more than $120 million

Construction to Begin this Spring. photo courtesy of Vicki Adams, Bastrop Daily Enterprise.

Announced December 13th

by Governor Bobby Jindal 58

Saturday, February 16, 2013 West Monroe Convention Center Events Begin at Seven in the Evening

Heavy Hors d’oeurvres, Silent and Live Auctions, Champagne & Diamonds Entertainment by True Too Life

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2013 Sponsors: Sultan Dr. Robert Ebeling Dr. William Zollinger Sheik Glenwood Regional Medical Center Northeast Louisiana Cancer Institute St. Francis Medical Center Vizier Oncology Associates

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4759

“Music and Me”

by Elisabeth Poetker

The newborn babe lay in her Mother’s arms as I sang a simple melody from a far side of the room. Slowly the baby turned her head towards me. I moved to another corner and sang again. Again she turned her head towards me. Over and over this was repeated. Fifteen years later she is studying music at a school of performing arts.

If a babe is fortunate enough to hear classical music regularly and this continues into later years it is said that a section of his/her mind is awakened that otherwise would be dormant. Check James Gardner’s book on Multiple Intelligences.

The thrill of being alive in the ‘now’ and being wrapped up in this ‘moment’ is the marvel experienced in listening to music. What

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music? Sounds we experiment with to hear and to discover own musical style of choice. Our selections are added to when different sounds are introduced. Without doubt the variations of the magnificent sounds within a Mozart concerto pushing strong bold notes followed by the surprise of short, crisp (staccato) notes adds to the selections. Now comes the perfectly executed notes that resonate perfect sounds. Then comes the expected introduction of notes that become the softest of sounds, stretched slowly and softer. These are rich notes that undulate becoming so soft yet strong enough to hear that makes the listener weep.

One night PBS featured the Louisiana Cajun fiddler Doug Kershaw and the world renowned violinist Itzhak Perlman in the same concert. Each shared a strong zest for his style of music, and combined, the best of their sounds filled the stage with unexpected resonance. These sounds reached the marrow of our bones. But when they played duets tears flowed listening to the brilliant sounds from two different styles of violinists.

A few years ago Ravi Shankar and his daughter played at the Strand Theater in Shreveport, Louisiana. Sitar and tabla and the harmonium.

When the concert ended no one wanted to leave the concert hall and would have listened to the perfect sounds all through the night. In spite of sounds unaccustomed to the Western ears, the sounds heard lifted the hearts of those listening. The performers were experts on their instruments and played so well that the notes seemed organized with precision of tone, pitch, timbre, and rhythm. And so our mental senses came alive and we felt as one with the sounds.

When listening to Gregorian Chants the mind is calmed. As the deep sounds resonate we forget the moment, forget ourselves. The music releases us to lift our minds with joy.

Good music played well has its benefits. It has been said that conductors of symphonies live longer than other professionals. Pablo Casals, cellist, conducted until he was 99 years old. In the Caucasus mountains orchestra members are required to be over 100 years old.

Music and a zest for life.

Music makes things in our minds and even when most forget the name of a musical piece hearing the tunes again brings recognition of the melody. When we forget the moment and listen to the sounds of music, it is then that music resonates within us and our minds are lifted. Could be joy?

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Jane’s Journal: Tears are not distinguished by color

By Jane Cabuk (Circa 1970’s) King Cotton had painted the broad fields of the plantation white with the generosity of a loving father in the fall of 1925. There had been days and days of Indian summer stretching on into late October.

Returning to the woods at dawn, the men searched and called. The rain still fell, but slickers kept the horseback riders reasonably dry. Mr. Burgess had ordered a wagon and team to come along in the search, as he feared the worst when the boys were found.

The hands answered the call of the plantation bell at 4:30 every morning, walking to the patches of cotton.

Each family worked as sharecroppers.

Leaving home with only cutoff overalls on, and no shirts, Lonnie and Dave had happily followed the dog deeper and deeper into the woods. Laughing and playing along, they were terrified when the first cold breath of the wind struck them. “We better git on home,” Lonnie said.

Returning to the cabins at noon, they checked on the small children, and ate a meal of cornpone and buttermilk, or sow belly and collard greens. Stretching out on the gallery, the men and women sank quickly into a deep sleep, restoring tired muscles for the return to the fields; where they would drag the heavy sacks, row by row, until cotton packed into them brought the weight upward to 200 pounds.

It was a matter of pride, when the weighing in was done, who had picked the most cotton. A family of good pickers could easily get a bale a day.

Children too young to work were left at the cabin with firm orders from the parents not to leave the yard, not to play with fire, and if a stranger came by, to run and hide in the weeds.

I was 9 years old that fall, and with my brothers, Sam and Russell, and my sister Mildred, played all over the plantation at will. We loved to visit the cabins and play with the black children. When we got hungry, we ate at the cabin, an often took the children and their dogs rabbit hunting with us, along the fence rows of the fields. The parents allowed them to go with us, and we knew full well we all would get a whipping along with them if anything happened.

The bell awakened Uncle Jim. Stretching and yawning, he reached over and nudged Aunt Cindy awake.

“Come on, Cindy, us got to finish dat bale dis evening.” Even though Jim and Cindy were not legally married, but had ‘jumped the broom’, there was a deep bond of love between them. They cherished each of their eight children. All of them worked side by side with their parents except the two youngest, Lonnie and Dave.

Leaving the yard, Uncle Jim cautioned the kids to stick close to home. Poking out his lower lip, Lonnie whined, “Us gwine rabbit hunting.”“Y’all ain’t gwine no where,” Uncle Jim threatened, “I knows Miss Maude done took dem chillen to git de school shoes, and you all better stay right in dis yard.”

Our mother, Miss Maude, and our father, Mr. Burgess, allowed us to enjoy country pleasures with certain bounds. When school started, we made a trip to town to be outfitted with high-top shoes for the winter.

How we hated this intrusion on our pleasure, but there was no way to worm out of the ordeal once Miss Maude made her mind up to take us with her.

Late in the dusk that afternoon, when Miss Maude wheeled the Model T Ford into the big gate, we heard the strident tones of the big plantation bell ringing out an urgent message….come….come…come.

That old bell’s tongue had crooned the news of a birth, had tolled the death of a loved one, and had cried out in moments of need or danger. Mr. Burgess held the bell rope and was making the big bell roll completely over in its iron cradle. “Burgess, Burgess,” shouted Miss Maude, “For God’s sake, what has happened?”

“Dave and Lonnie are lost in the woods,” he answered through grim lips. “After Jim and Cindy left for the field after dinner, they took their dog and went into the woods rabbit hunting.”

Then the lighting flashed and the thunder roared and the wind moaned in the trees. Realizing they were lost, they began to run blindly through the bushes and brambles. The little dog following behind.

Calling and blowing the horns, the men began the systematic combing of the woods. Finally, a weak whimper was heard.

“Listen,” Mr. Burgess commanded. Again the whimper was heard. “That’s the dog. You men fan out and let’s find them.”

They had taken shelter behind a fallen log. The small dog was tied to one of the overall straps, and was barely alive, but the two little black bodies were stiff in death. Great sobs tore Uncle Jim’s body as he tried to scoop the little boys up in his arms. Mr. Burgess called the men on the wagon with the horn.

Preparing to place them in the wagon bed for the ride home, Uncle Jim sobbed, “Mr. Burgess, I just can’t stand for dem to be jostled up in dat wagon.” Placing his arm around Jim’s shoulder, Mr. Burgess said, “Don’t worry none, Jim, they won’t ride the wagon.” Mounting his horse, Mr. Burgess took off his slicker and wrapped it around one of the boys. Following him, Mr. Buck mounted and handed his slicker down for the other. The two white men rode the long miles home with the little black boys cradled in their arms.

The hammers pounded a dirge of sorrow as two small coffins were fashioned from freshly planed pine planks. Miss Maude went to the cedar chest for two of her best muslin sheets to make the shrouds. The black women from the quarters prepared the bodies, and the black men went to the graveyard and dug twin graves.

As the wagon, pulled by a pair of matched gray mules, began its slow trek to the graveyard a mile and a quarter away, the big bell seemed to sob with each slow loll of its huge tongue as it tolled out the sorrow of the plantation in having to give up the two little souls.

Russell, Sam, Mildred, and I were dressed in our Sunday best, and joined the funeral procession in a buggy with Uncle Johnny as driver. Other wagons followed with the rest of the black families.

Mr. Burgess and Miss Maude drove the distraught parents ahead of the main procession in the Ford, leaving 10 minutes early in order for the heavy dust to settle, so the mule-drawn vehicles would not be engulfed in the choking cloud.

Four crude chairs were lined up along one side of the open graves. Uncle Jim and Aunt Cindy, Mr. Burgess and Miss Maude were seated when the coffin laden wagon pulled up and stopped at the head of the plot.

We alighted from the buggy and went to stand with the black children from the bereaved family, facing our parents together.

Their hands were busily picking the fluffy, white fiber from the bolls in late afternoon when in the distance they became aware of a rumbling. Uncle Jim raised his head and wiped the sweat from his brow and sniffed the air. “We fixin to have a blue northerner,” he announced. On the horizon, dark clouds seemed to come from nowhere. The stillness of death was in the air.

Mr. Burgess looked handsome in his black suit, and Miss Maude was pretty in her navy blue suit and tucked blouse. Aunt Cindy and Uncle Jim looked nice too. Mr. Burgess had outfitted Uncle Jim in one of his white shirts with a black vest and pants. Aunt Cindy wore a black afternoon dress with white linen collar and cuffs that Miss Maude had sent from her wardrobe. It was the first time I had ever seen them in anything other than the rough overalls and gingham dresses they wore to the field.

With the scream of a banshee, an icy wind cut across the field, kicking up a swirl of blinding dust. Great blue fingers of lightning seemed intent on splitting the universe, coming closer and closer. The rumble grew into great crashes of thunder with each flash.

The small graveyard was filled with hands and white families from the neighboring plantations. The pastor called on the company to pray. A hymn of mourning rose on the still air as the two coffins were lifted from the wagon and placed on the fresh mounds of dirt. The empty wagon moved slowly away, to make room for the pall bearers to place the plow lines under each box, with which they could lower them.

The women screamed, and the men tried to calm them as they all dragged the heavy sacks in the wagons.

Not waiting to weigh, the sacks were pushed pell-mell into the wagons, and the hands piled on top of them. The mules were straining and tugging on the harness, anxious to get to the lot and the safety of the big barn.

The neighboring plantation owners had heard the voice of the big bell. They came hell-bent for leather, some in T-model Fords, some on horseback, and some in buggies. “We have two boys lost in the woods,” Mr. Burgess explained, “And with this northerner blowing in, we have got to find them.”

Fanning out into the woods, the men called and waited. The howling cold wind took their cries and flung them back into their faces. Hunting horns were blown, only to die on the wind like a soft sob. A discouraged bunch of men returned without the lost boys. Darkness and a cold deluge of rain made the search an impossible task until daylight.

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As the pastor spoke of the little lives lost, and the souls gone to glory, Aunty Cindy sobbed hysterically.

Uncle Jim’s massive shoulders shook as his tears flowed uncontrolled. Tears rolled down my cheeks for my lost playmates.

Brushing at my eyes with the back of my hand, I looked at the grieving parents, white and black. I looked around at all the hands and white neighbors mingling their tears with ours over our loss.

Standing there in the country graveyard more than 50 years ago, the strangest seed of truth entered my head and began to grow. Staring at the huge tears dropping on Uncle Jim’s white shirt front, I was startled to find they did not leave black splotches.

“These black people are not our hands. Uncle Jim and Aunt Cindy are parents just like Mr. Burgess and Miss Maude,” I thought, “We all cry the same color of tears.”

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Bella Cucina “Beautiful Kitchen”

by Mark Sanders Food Editor

“Come on kids from eight to eighty, Hey there, mister, bring your lady, …It’s Carnival Time!”

Although any true Elvis fan can tell you the lyrics to “Carnival Time” were not written for Mardi Gras, no one can deny that the sentiment perfectly conveys the feeling of New Orleans!

I’m always eager to see how krewes throughout Louisiana can improve their parades and decadent formal balls from year to year, but somehow they always manage. Monroe’s own Krewe of Janus has turned the Janus Parade into one of the most anticipated events in Northeast Louisiana. Krewes in various areas of the state celebrate the season of Mardi Gras in different ways, but it seems that anyone outside of the Bayou State can associate the revelry with one place…New Orleans!

These days, if you were to find me in the Big Easy for carnival, you would most likely run into me on Canal Street at the Children’s Parade or perhaps cheering on our four-legged friends at the pet parade. Several years ago, however, I had the opportunity to meet someone in one of the long-standing, deeply rooted krewes and got a personal lesson of its history and traditions. The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club has long been an integral part of New Orleans Mardi Gras. As early as 1901, members of social clubs in the African American communities of New Orleans gathered to participate in a parade. An interesting fact in the history of Zulu is the fact that Zulu was comprised of multiple ward-based clubs which came together as a form of a Benevolent Aid Society, which for their members, was an early form of insurance. In exchange for small dues, members of such clubs would receive financial aid when sick, or even assistance in the burial of a relative.

Through the years, the Zulu parade has grown tremendously, with its Kings, Queens and the all-important Witch Doctor. Of all the parades, the most prized of all trinkets to be thrown, the most prized of all would have to be the Zulu coconut, or “golden nugget.” From early records, members tell us that the throwing of coconuts dates back to 1910. Somewhere down the line, painters started scraping the coconuts and painting them before tossing them to the parade-goers. This tradition has advanced to the highly prized and richly embellished coconuts that are given from the Zulu floats today.

One of my favorite facts about the Zulu coconut is its trip to the capitol. Yes, because of alleged injury from coconuts being thrown from floats, the number of lawsuits made it impossible for the organization to get insurance in 1987. That year, the much-loved tradition was suspended and no coconuts were thrown. The tenacity of the members, not to mention the disappointed revelers ready to collect a Zulu coconut, urged lobbyists to approach the Louisiana Legislature. The legislature passed SB188, which excluded the coconut from liability for alleged injury arising from coconuts handed from the floats. The bill, which was signed into law by then-Governor Edwin Edwards, is now known as the “Coconut Bill.” Don’t ya just love Louisiana???

For the twentieth year, Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club will present the Zulu Lundi Gras Festival on Monday, February 11th on the riverfront in Woldenberg Park in the French Quarter. Believe me, there will be food, floats, treats and Grammy-winning performers on three stages all through the day. Who knows? You may even walk away with a treasured coconut!

The tradition of the coconut does not end with the souvenirs and Louisiana’s Coconut Bill. Coconut is also a major component of a Zulu King Cake. Made in a similar fashion to the rich, eggy brioche style King Cake that most people are familiar with, the Zulu King Cake offers fillings of cream cheese with chocolate and coconut, then glazed with a chocolate glaze and topped with coconut, rather than the traditional colored sugar. The combination is unforgettable! If you’ve never tried a Zulu King Cake, you’ve got to try this recipe!

64 60

Cake

4 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 ¼ cup sugar 1 ½ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon “rapid-rise” yeast ¾ cup milk ½ cup water ½ teaspoon vanilla ½ cup salted butter 2 large eggs, beaten ¼ cup melted butter

Filling

1½ packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened ½ stick butter, softened ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips ½ cup milk chocolate chips ¾ cup sweetened coconut flakes ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted 1 teaspoon vanilla

Glaze

½ cup semisweet chocolate chips ½ cup milk chocolate chips ½ stick butter 3 tablespoons honey ½ teaspoon vanilla Sweetened coconut flakes for topping (I like mine toasted)

For the cake: In a large bowl, combine 1 ½ cups flour, sugar, salt and yeast. Warm milk and ½ cup butter to 120-130 degrees. Add liquid to dry ingredients and beat for 2 minutes at medium speed. Add eggs and ½ cup flour. Beat at a high speed for 2 minutes. Stir in remaining flour in 2-3 portions. After the last addition, combine until the mixture forms a very sticky dough.

On a floured surface, knead dough for 5-10 minutes, dusting surface often with flour when dough becomes sticky. When dough is smooth, elastic and slightly sticky, place dough in a well-greased bowl. Cover with a piece of waxed paper sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, then cover with a damp, lightweight kitchen towel. Refrigerate 12 to 24 hours.

Allow dough to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before punching dough down. Divide into three individual pieces and form each into cylinders. Roll each cylinder into 28 x 4 inch rectangles.

For the filling: Mix all ingredients with an electric mixer until well combined. Place a line of the filling down the center of each rectangle of dough.

Beginning at the long end, roll up each rectangle tightly into a rope and pinch the seams to seal. Braid the three ropes of dough, forming the braid into an oval. Seal together by pinching ends together.

Place dough on an ungreased baking sheet, cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Brush the cake with melted butter and bake at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until brown. Transfer to a wire rack immediately to cool (I slide the rack under the edge of the cake while it’s still on the baking sheet to avoid any tears).

Combine all of the ingredients for the glaze, with the exception of the coconut flakes. Microwave on high in 30 second intervals, stirring after each interval. When ingredients are smooth and well combined, drizzle the chocolate glaze over the entire cake. Sprinkle with coconut flake.

Decorate with gold beads and doubloons, additional shaved chocolate and, of course, a BABY! By the time you finish your Zulu King Cake, you’ll be ready to join Elvis:

Don’t be bashful, by a ticket, Get the habit, never kick it!

Hit the band there, don’t just stand there, It’s Carnival Time!

For more information on Zulu, follow them on Facebook!

2013 Witch Doctor, Mr. Randolph “Rudy” Davis was presented at the Zulu Witch Doctor’s Ball. His royal regalia was created over the course of about 10 months.

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A Valentine’s Dinner to Remember If Elvis can get us ready to revel during Mardi Gras, who better than Ol’ Blue Eyes himself to get us in the mood for Valentine’s Day? In the song, “My Funny Valentine,” Mr. Sinatra sings to his Valentine, crooning the lyrics “your looks are laughable, unphotographable, yet you’re my favorite work of art.” That may have worked for the debonair troubadour, but I’m here to tell you, I would advise against starting out Valentine’s Day by announcing to your sweetheart that his or her “looks are laughable.” Instead of handing you a well-thought and carefully selected gift, your honey may just throw a precious present straight at you.

Since most of us do not have the talents of Frank Sinatra (I don’t even have a fedora), I would suggest wooing your Valentine with something special like a dinner for two that you have lovingly, yet oh-so-effortlessly have prepared. With the aid of some of our friendly confectioners and caterers, you can present a wonderful spread for Valentine’s Dinner with ease.

Honey Balsamic Vinai grette

Note: I just love Mrs. Lucy Zaunbrecher, author of Classic Cajun and Classic Cajun Deux. I had the privilege of meeting and working with “Miss Lucy” when I was a student at Mississippi College and she needed someone to design her set for her television show. Miss Lucy says that Cajuns were never big on salads, but she does like fresh vegetables, and living on a farm, they are plentiful. One of the tricks that I picked up from Miss Lucy was to make dressing in a Mason jar. It’s so easy to make your own and it’s in its own storage container!

In a Mason jar, add: ¼ cup aged balsamic vinegar ¼ cup honey 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic ½ teaspoon Kosher salt 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 cup extra virgin olive oil Shake vigorously and taste for seasoning (add a big more salt if you like).

Store in the refrigerator until ready to dress the salads, then shake again until well blended. Refrigerate leftover dressing.

Honey Roasted Pecans

4 cups shelled pecans Cold water 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons butter 1/3 cup brown sugar 2 teaspoons Kosher salt 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon ½ teaspoon cumin ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/3 cup honey Place the pecans in a large microwaveable dish and cover with cold water.

Microwave on high for ten minutes. Drain the pecans, then lay out on paper towels and pat dry. While the pecans are drying, wash and dry the dish, then use the dish to mix the remaining ingredients. Add the dry pecans and toss to thoroughly coat. Microwave on high 5-7 minutes, stirring every minute to ensure even cooking. Spread the pecans evenly on waxed paper to cool and dry.

Once you have impressed your sweetheart with a bowl of heart-warming soup and a thoughtfully prepared salad, you have one more chance to show off your culinary skills.

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Nothing says romance like using “the good china.” Use it. If you don’t know how to lay out a proper place setting, send us a message. We’re here to help and we don’t want you to make the mistake of singing that “unphotographable” line. For starters, call on Kim Verhagen at the Coffee Bean for her scrumptious tomato basil soup, or give Patra Fontenot a ring to order some of the smoked gouda bisque that Vieux Carre Gourmet has become famous for.

You’ll want to follow the soup with a light, flavorful salad. You can do it yourself, I promise. For an easy salad, chill two salad plates and the salad forks in the refrigerator, then set to work on the dressings and toppings. I like mixed salad greens topped with sweet, seedless grapes, honey roasted pecans and a balsamic vinaigrette. If you like bleu cheese or goat cheese, feel free to add it! Here are the recipes that you’ll need: For the main course, make it sweet and savory with my

Maple Pecan Pork Chops with roasted sweet potatoes:

Maple Pecan Pork Chops 4 lean, boneless pork chops 2 teaspoons Creole mustard 3 tablespoons flour 1 teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons maple syrup -- it’s a special occasion, yes, use the good stuff!

1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme 2 tablespoons chopped roasted pecans (hint, hint….you “roasted” pecans for the salad. Use ‘em!)

Spread Creole mustard on pork chops, covering both sides with a thin layer.

Combine flour with ginger and pepper. Dredge the pork chops in the flour mixture. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium high heat.

Add the pork chops and cook 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned.

Combine maple syrup, thyme and pecans to pork chops and stir to coat. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are very tender. Serve with Roasted Sweet Potatoes.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch-cubes 4 tablespoons olive oil 4 large garlic cloves, minced 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, minced 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Preheat oven to 450°F. In large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and toss. Arrange potato cubes in single layer on heavyweight rimmed baking sheet or in 13x9inch baking dish (I line mine with foil). Place on top rack of oven and roast until tender and slightly browned, about 40 minutes.

After the labor of love, plate the Roasted Sweet Potatoes with the Maple Pecan Pork Chops, allowing some of the glaze from the pork chops to drizzle over the potatoes.

With your sweetheart feeling warm and fuzzy with your delicious dinner that you have so lovingly prepared and perfectly served, dessert is a must, but it must not require any more work on your part. Valentine’s Day requires only one thing…

Chocolate. When it comes to chocolate, we’ve got you covered. Well, Bayou Chocolate has you covered -- they’ve even got strawberries covered in the most delectable chocolate and white chocolate. What better ending to a perfect Valentine’s Dinner than a tray of chocolate covered strawberries or assorted chocolates? I’d say that even Mr. Sinatra couldn’t beat that.Happy Valentine’s Day!

Easter Sunday…Oh, the Possibilities!

Easter Sunday is one of those special occasions that requires a meal to remember--I dare say, second only to Christmas dinner. The good thing with Easter Sunday is that most families can be flexible based on their family traditions and their worship services. Many churches observe Sunrise Services or an early worship service on Easter Sunday. This variance in schedule allows for the Easter meal to be either a brunch or a dinner.

Whether brunch or dinner, most people enjoy a feast of ham, an asparagus recipe, cheese grits, salads and a tomato aspic. If I’m serving brunch, I may feature a glazed ham, dripping with orange marmalade and Dijon mustard that has browned beautifully, tea biscuits, garlicky cheese grits and a

congealed salad. This year, I’d like to share my recipes for Mahogany Glazed Pork Tenderloin, Baked Rice and French Beans Almondine. With these recipes, you’re guaranteed an easy, yet elegant Easter dinner. All you need to add is an easy salad, perhaps an aspic, steamed asparagus with a creamy sauce and your favorite Easter desserts. I will note that this is the time that I take advantage of anyone asking “What may I bring?” -- If it’s a busy day, don’t ask me “What may I bring?” unless you mean it! On Easter, my answer will always be “your favorite Easter dessert,” then pray that I don’t end up with a giant, intimidating rabbit cake with accents of construction paper, plastic grass and pastel colored pipe cleaners.

Baked Rice

4 tablespoons butter ¾ cup chopped onion ½ cup chopped green pepper 1 1/3 cups rice 2 1/3 cups water 2 heaping tablespoons Wyler’s bouillon crystals ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Mahogany Glazed Pork Tenderloin

For the Marinade & Glaze: 2 cups honey 1 cup soy sauce 4 cloves garlic, minced ¾ cup apricot jam ¼ cup Dijon mustard ¾ cup red currant jam 1 tablespoon coarsely ground black pepper Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan and heat over medium heat until the honey and jams have melted and combined.

Whisk to combine. Allow to cool. Pour half of the mixture into a separate bowl to use as glaze. Pour remaining sauce into a large, gallon-size resealable freezer bag for marinating the tenderloin.

For the Tenderloin: 2 packages pork tenderloin (2 ½ - 3 pounds each), unseasoned Reserved marinade (in freezer bag) 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon coarsely ground black pepper Open pork tenderloin over the sink to allow juices to drain. Rinse the tenderloin and lay out on layers of paper towels. (Most of the packaged pork tenderloins will have two smaller tenderloins). Season with salt and pepper and transfer tenderloins into the freezer bag.

Seal and roll to cover the tenderloins completely with the marinade.

Allow to marinate for up to 2 hours unrefrigerated. If you are marinating the tenderloin longer than 2 hours or overnight, refrigerate until ready to use. If refrigerated, remove tenderloin and allow to rest at least 30 minutes to come closer to room temperature.

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Place tenderloin in a large roasting pan and cover with marinade. Roast in a 350 degree oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour. After 30 minutes, begin glazing the tenderloins with reserved glaze. The tenderloin will be done when a meat thermometer reads 155 degrees. Heat any remaining glaze to a boil, then allow to cool. Serve with sliced tenderloin. This tenderloin and glaze is also delicious for a tea or reception served with party rolls.

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In an oven-proof, covered skillet, melt butter and saute’ onion and bell pepper. When vegetables become tender, add rice and stir to combine, allowing rice to slightly turn golden. Add water and bring to a boil. Add bouillon crystals, stir to combine and cover. Remove from heat and transfer to a hot oven and cook for 45-50 minutes. Remove from oven and fluff rice. Stir in fresh parsley before serving. Beautiful and delicious -- you’ll fix rice this way for everything!

French Beans Almondine 4 slices lean bacon 1 small onion, finely minced 2 cloves garlic, finely minced 3 cans French-style green beans, drained 2/3 cup water 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper ¾ cup sliced almonds, toasted Fry bacon. Remove to paper towels to drain and cool. In bacon grease, saute minced onion and garlic. Add drained French-style beans, water, sugar, vinegar, salt and pepper. Cover and simmer green beans on low for 20 minutes. Drain any excess water from the beans. Plate on a warm platter, crumble bacon over the beans, then add toasted almonds.

With a few of your own additions, you’ll have a perfect Easter dinner. Just sit back, relax, and hope that someone brings a wonderful coconut cake. If someone arrives with a store-bought cake decorated with a semi-homemade variety of marshmallow chicks and foil wrapped eggs, smile graciously and make room on the buffet!

I hope that you each have a very happy, blessed Easter celebration.

Remember, if you have questions for your menus or need recipe advice, look for me on Facebook on “The Delta Gentleman Speaks.”

Boun Appet it o! ---Mark

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C ro s s w or d O R n e r

CLUES ACROSS 1. Sleeveless Arab garments 5. Make somebody laugh 10. Doctors’ group 13. Afghan Persian language 14. Indian dresses 15. Publisher Conde 17. Loud noises 18. Threefold 19. 6489 Ft. Greek mountain 20. Holds outerwear 22. Expressed pleasure 23. Hawaiian floral garlands 24. Unhappy 26. Belonging to a thing 27. Tooth caregiver (abbr.)

30. A public promotion 31. Levels to the ground (alt. spelling) 33. Nursing group 34. Set aside for a purpose 38. Slightly wet 40. One of #1 across

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41. Any competition 45. Verify 49. Lyricist Gershwin 50. Bangladesh capital before 1982 52. Potato state 54. “Weighing Gold” artist Gerard 55. Australian Racing Board 56. Type of health insurance 58. Pierce with a knife 60. Southeast Asia Treaty Org. 62. Outer garment storage room 66. Genus cuniculus 67. Speak 68. Language, a.k.a. twi 70. Smudge made by soot 71. Amber is one 72. Stand to hold articles 73. Midway between S and SE 74. Satiates 75. One who colors clothes

CLUES DOWN 1. Determine the sum of 2. Spoken in the Dali region 3. River in Florence 4. Plant fiber that makes rope 5. Spanning 6. 1978 Turkish massacre 7. Acid causing gout 8. Drops underwater 9. Midway between E and SE 10. Dwarf buffalo 11. Five iron 12. Valuable owned items 16. Small amounts 21. High, green or iced 22. 6th Jewish month 25. Macaws 27. Male parent 28. The king of molecules 29. Golfer Snead 32. Swedish krona 35. Express pleasure

Answers on page 70

36. Resource-based economy 37. A waterproof raincoat 39. Red China 42. Furnish with help 43. Criminal Records Office 44. ___ de cologne 46. Repeat sound 47. Stonestreet character 48. Baby cats 50. Sleep reveries 51. Ancient calculating device 53. Constitution Hall org.

55. Vipers 57. Plant structure (alt. spelling) 58. Gymnopedis composer Erik 59. A slab of lumber 61. Modern London gallery 63. Kiln 64. All right 65. Ceremonial staff of authority 67. Many not ands 69. Norwegian money (abbr.)

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ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, there are a few things you need to work out, but then you will be set for quite a while. Take the opportunity to recharge your batteries.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, a risk you take will pay off in a big way. You might be anxious to take a significant risk, but the eventual reward will be well worth it.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, sometimes the things that are the hardest to come by are the ones that are most worth the effort. Think about this as you face obstacles.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, it may be challenging to find some initial support for a new idea because you are essentially charting new territory. Just give it time and people will come around.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, contrary to what you believe, things at work will go on even if you take a few days off for a vacation. There may be some catching up afterward, but you can handle it.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Slow down a little, Sagittarius. Moving faster will not get the job done to your satisfaction and then you only will have to do it all over again. Think through your options.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, your mind may be churning, but worrying excessively over something will not help the situation.

Therefore, focus on something else for a while.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, just when you think things will go on without any excitement, something pops up and it’s just what you need to beat the doldrums. Expect time with friends.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, sometimes you need to be tough on yourself to get things done, but you will be satisfied with the results when you push yourself. Focus on goals this week.

70

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, shift your focus to your family for now because you have to make some decisions that will affect them all. Listen to your gut feeling when making these decisions.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, there are some things around the house that need your attention, but you may be having trouble finding the motivation to tackle them just now.

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