BOSSIER
I N N OVAT I V E SPECIALISSUE LittleBigMag.com
Spring / Summer 2013
Lo Walker
Rod Centers
Mike Rich
Bob Robinson
Dr. Jim Henderson
Mayor Bossier City
General Manager Boomtown
General Manager Horseshoe Casino
R.R. Robinson Enterprises
Chancellor - Bossier Parish Community College
CASINO
HOTEL
BOSSIER CITY, LA
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SouthernHospitalityMagazine
TableOfContents
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MOTIVATION ......................................................................................................4 AWARD CEREMONY CELEBRATING OUR 10TH ANNIVERSARY...............................7 THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF GAMING IN NORTHWEST LOUISIANA ..........................8 PRESTIGIOUS LEADERSHIP AWARDS.....................................................................11
Distinguished Men
Bossier City y / Shre reveport r rt
Southern Hospitality Magazine has chosen 12 distinguished men of Bossier City whom deserve recognition for their accomplishments in vision, leadership, and for all of their contributions for Bossier City.
KEEPING BOSSIER INNOVATIVE ..........................................................................12 PAY IT FORWARD FOR SIGHT...............................................................................15 SR. AIRMAN BRYAN BELL REMEMBERED...............................................................16
We will acknowledge 3 outstanding men chosen for this issue and the rest of them will be honored in our summer, July 4th issue! All of our men have played an enormous role in shaping lives and setting the example of what a true Distinguished Man should be!
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STAFF SARGEANT JASMINE RUSSELL....................................................................17
Southern Hospitality Magazine asked… Do you have a Beauty Roadmap to your life?
KADEEBELL'S CUSTOMIZED GIFTS ON THE GO....................................................18
When you think about what makes you outrageously happy, do you know what that is? Let us help you map out the road to y
BIG THINGS HAPPENING IN BOSSIER SCHOOLS.................................................20
37
DISTINGUISHED MEN .........................................................................................26 BEAUTIFUL FACES................................................................................................27 TANGLES SALON - RISING STAR OF HAIRDRESSING IN BOSSIER CITY ..................29 THE PERFECT BLEND - Q&A WITH AJ HICKS .........................................................31 SPRING PLUMBING TIPS WITH ROACH PLUMBING ..............................................35 DINING & CASINO ENTERTAINMENT - WE'VE GOTCHA COVERED WITH THE BEST OF DINING & ENTERTAINMENT IN BOSSIER CITY ...........................40
MORE TO SEE ON OUR WEBSITE For Recipes, Additional Photos and More Visit Our Website at:
LittleBigMag.com
DEBBIE D'S PICNIC SUMMER RECIPES ..................................................................44 THE BEST WAY TO FIND LOVE IS TO FIND GOD THROUGH CREATION - TRUST, BELIEVE IN JESUS CHRIST ...................................................................48
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 3
By Chase Duggins Personal Trainer Adrenaline 24/7 Fitness & Sports
DEBBIE DILLARD Publisher PUBLISHER & PROMOTIONS COORDINATOR Debbie Dillard ART DIRECTOR Palmer Publishing & Graphics, LLC CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sonja Bailes Chase Duggins Dr. Nikki Gebarra Suzanne Stinson PHOTOGRAPHY Ron Beal, Beautiful Soul Photography Mollie Corbett Photography John Linden Photography PRINTING Midway Press CONTACT INFO Southern Hospitality Magazine Shreveport, LA 71105 Phone:(318) 264-9621 Email: debikdillard@aol.com www.LittleBigMag.com
FIND US ON FACEBOOK Search Keywords: Southern Hospitality Magazine BOSSIER
I N N OVAT I V E SPECIAL ISSUE LittleBigMag.com
Spring / Summer 2013
Lo Walker
Rod Centers
Mike Rich
Bob Robinson
Jim Henderson
General Manager Boomtown
General Manager Horseshoe Casino
R.R. Robinson Enterprises
Chancellor - Bossier Parish Community College
Mayor Bossier City
CASINO
HOTEL
BOSSIER CITY, LA
ABOUT THE COVER Photos courtesy of Shreveport-Bossier Tourist Bureau, Margaritaville picture Courtesy of Gremillion & Pou
In order to find motivation, you must first create a goal. Ideally, that goal should represent your personal desire to achieve an end result. Regardless of what that result may be, you must first visualize it, create a plan for it, and commit to it. As a bodybuilder, exercising is something I enjoy very much, so it was easy for me to focus and train. Unfortunately, not everyone feels the same about working out; therefore, it may be more difficult for them to stay dedicated to a fitness regimen. Over the years, I have trained numerous people with all types of fitness goals: weight loss, strength development, as well as overall better physical wellness. One thing I have always stressed to my clients is to stay focused on their individual goals. When they stay motivated and push to meet those goals, not only do they feel physically stronger and healthier but they also walk away with an increased sense of mental well-being. Those are the same feelings that have always kept me motivated. The increase in my strength and health has allowed me to be more confident and create a better mind-set. Everyone should experience the incredible benefits that a daily fitness regimen will create. The key is to always remain positive
4 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
and stay focused. Fitness is a way to release the stress we incur in our daily lives. Oftentimes, this stress becomes the main reason you lose focus, commitment, and motivation. Remember how great you feel and how much healthier you are at the end of a workout. This will help you stay on track and achieve your fitness goals. So, find your motivation and start a daily exercise regimen today. I promise you will not only feel great but you will also experience tremendous satisfaction from accomplishing your goals. Let this be your motivation!
2151 Airline Dr. Suite 1200 Bossier City | 741-5822 Airline Plaza
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Ŷ KĸĐ ŝ Ă ů d ƌ Ă ŝ Ŷŝ ŶŐ ^ ŝ ƚ Ğ Ĩ Žƌ > ^ h^ tĞ ŝ Ő Śƚ ů ŝ Ōŝ ŶŐ
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To See All The Photos from The Award Ceremony go to our website at www.LittleBigMag.com
Brandy Santoro Kadeebell’s Best All-Around Accessory Gift Boutique
Payton Curry Miss Taste of the Twin Cities' Outstanding Teen SHM Would Like To Congratulate You On Your Title & Thank You For Being Such A Great Presenter For Our Ceremony!
Voted Best Dressed - Leslie Cantrell Owner C&C Boutique - Bossier City
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 7
GAMING
THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF
in Northwes t Louisiana
By Mayor Lorenz “Lo” Walker
Since the first riverboat casino opened here 20 years ago Bossier City has received more than $250 million dollars in direct tax revenue.
As Bossier City grows in the twentyfirst century, a significant part of the economic engines that have helped grow the community over the past thirty five years has been the gaming industry. Louisiana Downs and the three riverboat casinos in the city have been a major factor in the region’s economic success. The excitement of opening Louisiana Downs, October 30, 1974, on 350 acres in east Bossier City, brought 15,000 thoroughbred racing fans to its inaugural meet. Built by Edward J. DeBartolo, Sr., the track was a huge success from the beginning, setting numerous national records for handle and attendance throughout the 70’s and 80’s. In 1980, plans were announced for the first running of the Super Derby, a one and a quarter mile race to be run in the fall. The intent was to attract the best three-year-olds in the country and to have an impact on the end-of-the year championships. With a $500,000 purse, the race was the richest ever for three-yearold Thoroughbreds. The annual race has rightfully taken its place nationally as one of the most anticipated of the year. Beginning in the late 80’s and early 90’s racing facilities like Louisiana Downs began to experience a decline in interest leading to some states looking at the gaming industry of Nevada and how it had become a tourist destination and revenue generator in that state. In 1991, Louisiana became the fourth state in the country to allow riverboat casino gaming within its borders. Shortly after the passage of the
state’s riverboat legislation the ShreveportBossier area was identified by the casino gaming industry as an excellent location using the Red River as the backdrop for five riverboats. Three of the riverboats are located on the east side of the river in Bossier City. The new law initially required a gaming vessel to be a true riverboat that could navigate the waterways of the state. Lawmakers soon learned that the Red River would not allow for the safe movement of the boats and they were subsequently allowed to be permanently anchored to the land based portion of the casino facility and could remain dockside and open 24 hours. In 1993 the first riverboat casino in Northwest Louisiana the Isle of Capri, now Diamond Jacks Casino, opened in Bossier City. It was followed by the Horseshoe Casino and then Casino Magic, now Boomtown Casino. Each casino’s opening led to more excitement within the region. They became a new economic engine that soon became a permanent and major asset to the community. Two casinos opened in Shreveport and each of the five casinos in our area have become destination casino/resorts offering to Bossier City and Shreveport the resources that have transformed Northwest Louisiana into a tourist destination for millions of visitors. The advent of casinos brought some early concerns but the community quickly realized this new industry brought significantly more positives than negatives.
Myths surrounding the arrival of riverboat casinos simply turned out not to be true (see right). Since the first riverboat casino opened here 20 years ago Bossier City has received more than $250 million dollars in direct tax revenue. These funds have allowed Bossier City to complete millions of dollars in capital improvements without increasing the tax burden on our own citizens. When Bossier City first began receiving tax revenue from the riverboat casinos, the city’s elected officials saw the need to safe-guard the new revenue source by establishing a trust fund with the first $30 million dollars collected. None of these monies were spent until the trust fund achieved the $30 million level. When that amount was reached the city started using the interest earned from the fund and all subsequent riverboat casino tax revenue for capital improvements. Those smart planning practices resulted in over $100 million dollars in transportation improvement projects, infrastructure investments in two premier retail shopping centers (Louisiana Boardwalk and the Stirling Retail Center) and the construction of the CenturyLink Center just to name a few. Now in 2013, we look forward with growing anticipation to the opening of the area’s sixth riverboat casino. Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritavile Casino and Resort is scheduled to open mid-June 2013 bringing a new tropical look to the banks of the Red River and making Bossier City an even greater tourist destination. Local casino managers and their staff have become a major part of the fabric of this community. They have been actively involved in civic and business projects and exceptionally generous in their philanthropic actions for the region. The leadership of casinos has been pro-active in addressing the problems of individuals with gaming addiction. While not everyone likes the presence of gaming in our community, few can deny that their presence has had a tremendous economic impact on our community and provides a quality adult entertainment component for a large segment of our community and its visitors.
MYTH #1
Gaming creates nothing. It merely takes away money that would otherwise be used by residents for other means.
FACT:
Riverboats casinos have become a major economic force that benefits not just Bossier City but the entire state by pumping millions of dollars into our economy in several ways. Approximately 53% of all gaming revenue comes from out of state, mostly from Texas. Local merchants such as service stations, restaurants, hotels and retail stores benefit from the increased traffic from out-of-state visitors. More than 70% of goods and services used by Bossier City’s riverboat casinos are purchased from local businesses.
MYTH #2
Gaming in the community would increase crime.
FACT:
There is no negative correlation established between the arrival of riverboat casinos and crime rates. Studies have shown that the increased police protection afforded by the increase in tax revenue from the riverboat casinos and thousands of jobs created has decreased crime. Statistics show that crime in Bossier City decreased significantly during the first three years of having the riverboat casinos.
MYTH #3
Society as a whole suffers when gaming is introduced.
FACT:
Each casino that has opened in Bossier City and Shreveport has resulted in employment for thousands of people. Each casino averages approximately 1200 employees per casino with an average salary of $25,000 plus full health benefits. With dependable and competitive salaries, employees have bought homes, cars and major appliances, causing an economic ripple effect throughout the community.
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 9
PRESTIGIOUS LEADERSHIP AWARDS! ROBERT R. ROBINSON, DR. P.H. PRESIDENT & SENIOR PARTNER, R. R. ROBINSON ENTERPRISES, L.L.C. Dr. Robert R. Robinson (Bob), a native of this area, is the son of the late Roy and Daisy Robinson of Bossier City. He and his wife JoAnna, a native of Marin County California, live on Cypress Lake in Benton, Louisiana and have an apartment above their offices at Airline Plaza in Bossier City. A graduate of Bossier High School, Bob earned a BA at LSU and a Master’s and Doctoral Degrees in Public Health from the University of Texas. His consulting specialty is epidemiology, which is a branch of health care that deals with
the causes, distribution and control of disease in populations. Bob currently serves as President & Senior Partner of R. R. Robinson Enterprises, a diversified company involved in the areas of health care consulting, real estate and oil & gas exploration and development. He, along with his son Mark developed Airline Plaza, an up-scale retail and business complex located at 2151 Airline Drive in Bossier City. In addition, he is a Senior Partner in Fairfield Studios, a media production company in Shreveport. Bob’s civic activities include serving as presi-
dent of the Mardi Gras Krewe of Aesclepius (the health care Krewe) and as its King. In addition, he was a Duke and later King of the Krewe of Gemini. He served a two year term as President of Shreveport Opera, is past President of the Bossier Arts Council, past Chairman of the Executive Committee of the North Louisiana Film Alliance and is a past member of the Board of the Northwest Louisiana Chapter of the American Red Cross. Bob also serves as Chairman of the Annual Programs Fund & Polio Plus Committee of Shreveport Rotary and is Chairman of the successful effort to reelect Bossier City Mayor, Lo Walker.
DR. JIM HENDERSON CHANCELLOR - BOSSIER PARISH COMMUNITY COLLEGE Since coming to Bossier Parish Community College four years ago as Chancellor, Dr. Jim Henderson has made BPCC a leading institution of learning by expanding the role education plays in promoting our local
DEBBIE DILLARD - Publisher BOSSIER
LittleBigMag.com
Spring / Summer 2013
Mayor Bossier City
CASINO B
Rod Centers
Mike Rich
Bob Robinson
Jim Henderson
General Manager Boomtown
General Manager Horseshoe Casino
R.R. Robinson Enterprises
Chancellor - Bossier Parish Community College
HOTEL
BPCC has created a number of programs that have help fill the workforce needs of many local employers. Such programs include cyber security, industrial technology, oil and gas as well as nursing and allied health fields. As a result enrollment has grown from 4600 to a record 7900 during Jim’s tenure. That in itself bears testament to BPCC’s growing success of which Bossier City and Louisiana can be proud.
LittleBigMag.com
I N N OVAT I V E SPECIAL ISSUE
Lo Walker
economy. When Jim came to BPCC in 2009, he brought with him a wealth of academia experience. Having previously served as Senior Vice President for Workforce and Economic Development for the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, Jim focused much on crafting the system's workforce development efforts. It’s a philosophy that Jim continues to emphasize at BPCC. Under his watch,
WEB SITE INFO: Southern Hospitality Magazine has gone Digital! View our new issue online at Facebook! Just go to Facebook, click on Southern Hospitality Magazine, and view our 98 page edition.See who the winners are on our 4 page Awards Ceremony section, Who took home The Best Dressed Award!,
Summer is just around the corner so say Hello to Debbie D's Picnic Recipesand Learn how to be Happy, God's way! We are so excited about our 98 page publication filled with a good read, refreshment of the spirit, and did I mention AWARDS!
minutes Prep Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 25
Picnic Potato Salad
best outdoors! Feel and always tastes anything grilled, in this flavorful salad. This works with just about onions This salad is deliciousgreen onions instead of red free to use chopped as well adding avocados! desired) Dressing: for Macaroni Salad more or less, as
Ingredients:
tender, cooked until just 3 pounds potatoes, chopped cubed, cooled eggs, cooled, coarsely 5 or 6 hard cooked chopped red onion 1/4 to 1/2 cup chopped celery 1/4 to 1/2 cup Jar of pimentos olives, chopped 1 small can of black
(a little 3/4 cup mayonnaise Dressing Durkee's Salad celery seed, 1 to 2 tablespoons to taste, garlic powder, salt and pepper 1 T olive oil 1 tsp minced garlic
Durkee's, Stir in mayonnaise,a little at a in olives,& pimento's. Preparation: egg, onions, celery,(Stir the mayonnaise and dressingthinly sliced Combine potatoes, to taste. you like.) Top with Olive Oil, and seasonings and consistency have the flavor 6 to 8. time, until you if desired. Serves tomatoes and paprika,
Kentucky Chicken Cole Slaw Copy Cat Recipe!
Makes 24 Servings
Ingredients: 4 1/2 teaspoons tarragon vinegar 6 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil 3/4 cup chopped onion 2 1/2 cups Miracle Whip Preparation: Mix oil, onions and sugar. Add tarrag carrot d
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1 cup sugar 2 carrots 2 heads cabbage i
Don't forget, go to our NEW WEB SITE LittleBigMag.com and view our new flip page style magazine, two pages at a time. Hurry! Find out the latest trend!
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By Leslie Matthews
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Bella Donna Salon | 1409 E. 70th St. | Shreveport, LA 71105 | 318.469.6053
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 11
by: Debbie Dillard & Suzanne Stinson
n behalf of the citizens, and the leaders of the community, We want to congratulate Lo Walker, for another 4 years as Mayor of Bossier City, Louisiana.
Our city is a wonderful place to live, work, visit and do business. We are experiencing our first net population growth in decades and neighborhoods all over the city are buzzing with new life and commerce. Our education reforms are starting to yield positive results based on the diverse economy of Quality Education, Job Creation, and safe communities. We now live in a city that can be enjoyed and treasured by all who live here. We are bound together as one to say," Thank you Mayor Lo Walker in helping our dream become a reality for our Home Town, Bossier City, Louisiana! Our community is a better place because of Lo Walker. Providing a positive environment for residents and tourists, Bossier City has not only added to Shreveport’s prestigious reputation, but has become an equal. “Lo Walker is a paSuzanne Stinson, 26th Judicial District triot who works tirelessly for his Court Administrator and Past President of country and for our community,” the Commission for Women of Bossier Julian Whittington, Bossier Parish City, provided a quote, demonstrating her Sheriff. support for MayorWalker; “He is very “Mayor Walker is a true leader humble in his accomplishments and what he who always sees the big picture; I has done for the City of Bossier City. Not have seen him, when the chips are only does he serve as a diplomat for the men down, doing the right thing even and women who serve in the military, he though everyone else was counselcontinues to sponsor a quarterly breakfast ing to go to a different direction. It that includes leaders in the Bossier Parish takes a lot of guts to stay the course community and brings them together to in the face of adversity to do what help foster the working relationships he thought was right that flew in between the different agencies.” the face of what everyone was telling him he needed to do. It takes a really strong, confident person to do that.” - Bill Altimus, Bossier Parish Administrator “Mayor Lo Walker has continued to move Bossier City forward knowing ‘what to do, when to do it’, as well as knowing the right thing to say at the right time.” - Sandy Cimino, Vice President of Ouachita National Bank and Bossier Chamber of Commerce 2012 Business Person of the Year vision and dedication have advanced and transformed Bossier City.
12 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
Photos By: John Linden Photography ©
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▶ Enrollment numbers fall 2012: highest in 45 years with 7,900 students ▶ Community College Week: BPCC named fastest growing community college in nation ▶ G.I.Jobs: BPCC named to 2013 Military-friendly schools list ▶ In-demand programs: $ZCFS t &OHJOFFSJOH t /VSTJOH t "MMJFE )FBMUI t BOE NPSF ▶ Seamless transfers to 4-year universities
www.bpcc.edu
6220 E Texas Street, Bossier City, LA 71111 . (318) 678-6000
www.facebook.com/BPCCCAVS
Louisiana Lions Eye Bank | 721 Boulevard St. | Shreveport, LA 71104
PAY IT FORWARD FOR SIGHT By: Denise Odom, COT, CEBT
All You Need To Donate Sight Is A Little Love he month of March is Eye Donor Awareness month. While most people register to be an organ, eye and tissue donor, very few consider the eye portion of their donation. Most people think about donating their heart, kidneys or liver. However, the need for cornea donation is just as important. Imagine what it would be like to lose you sight. Think of what it might be like to open your eyes in the morning to a world of blurry images and vague shapes and no matter what you did it would never clear up. You could not drive, you could not read a book, and you could not even see the faces of your children or grandchildren. Think about what it would be like for one of your children or your mother or father to have to live this way… to wake up every day without hope of ever seeing a rainbow, clouds in the sky, or the beautiful colors of exploding fireworks in the sky. What if suddenly this spring when the flowers begin to bloom you were not able to see all the beautiful colors? Now, imagine that there is a way to give that sight back to your child, your family members, or even yourself. Transplants have been done on all ages including infants. Imagine by some miracle you or your family member could suddenly see again. Well that miracle does exist and you
can be that miracle for someone, someday in the future. In fact you can be that miracle for two people at some point in the future just by signing up to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor. But it takes more than just signing up to make this miracle happen. You will need to educate your family members and next of kin, letting them know that you really want to give the gift of sight one day.
We can change the vision of the future through our kindness and love today. Making your wishes known lifts the burden from your grieving family member when it’s time to donate. It’s one less decision they will have to make and it is an amazing way to “Pay it Forward”. The Louisiana Lions Eye Bank located at 721 Boulevard in Shreveport, Louisiana has been working to give the gift of sight since 1981. The need for their services has grown over the years and the need for donors has grown. Most of us don’t like to think about the end of our lives but we need to
think about the legacy we could leave behind for two people who need us. We can change the vision of the future through our kindness and love today. We have a chance to impact not only the two people who receive sight through our donation, but also their families who have had to care for them. Here is how you can register to become a donor if you have not already done so. Visit our website at www.lalionsibnk.org and click on the link, “Donate”, or call us at 318222-7999 if you have questions about donation. We can also provide you with the information you need to educate those in your life on how important eye donation is. This is your opportunity to change lives and leave a part of yourself behind. Please sign up to make a difference. All you need to donate sight is a little love.
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 15
Sr. Airman Bryan Bell Air Force Press Release By: Nikki Gebara and Andrew J. Gebara n Jan 5, Senior Airman Bryan Bell, 23, a member of 2 CES Explosive Ordnance Disposal, died following an improvised explosive device attack in Shir ghazi, Helmand province, Afghanistan. An Erie, Pennsylvania native born in 1988, Bryan joined the local fire company at age 14 and earned senior fireman recognition by the time he graduated from High School. He joined the Air Force in 2007, graduated from Joint Naval Explosive Ordinance School at Eglin Air Force Base in 2008, and was assigned to Barksdale later that year, the same year he married Alaina. After service at Barksdale, he deployed to Ali Base, Iraq in 2010. Deploying again in 2011, he travelled this time to Regional Command Southwest, in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Three and a half months into his deployment, on January 5th, 2012, Bryan and his wingmen TSgt Matthew Schwartz and A1C Matthew Seidler were conducting a patrol with Marines from the 2d Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment when our enemies detonated a large improvised explosive device under their armored vehicle in the Musa Qal'ah District of Helmand Province, killing all three Airmen. In his four short years in the Air Force, Sr. Airman Bell directly contributed to more than 209 successful counter-IED missions, cleared IEDS from an area of over 745 miles of supply routes, trained local Iraqi and Afghan units on counter-IED tactics, techniques, and procedures, earned the
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Bronze Star Medal with Valor, the Air Force Combat Action Medal, both the Air Force and Army Commendation Medals, and the Purple Heart. He also earned the love and respect of his peers. Bryan was also a fun-loving, kindhearted person who was said to brighten up any room he walked into. A natural and popular leader, he was elected dorm chief of his building, and volunteered to work game room shifts there, as well as volunteering in Pet Mart's Adopta-Pet program, ensuring 16 abandoned pets found homes. He lived the Air Force Core Values during duty hours and after hours as an Airman Against Drunk Driving wingman. One EOD NCO wrote, "Bryan volunteered to watch my children and took them for ice cream after an outing. When I visited his house, we talked about his video gaming and motorcycle riding. My fondest memories are always of him playing football with the flight, joking and roughhousing in the training room, and how he loved to drive the response truck." Similarly, an EOD Airman wrote, "he was a passionate music lover, so much so that he was in a band when he was younger. Bryan was bassist in the band and also did background vocals. On a nice day Bryan loved to go to the pool with his wife and friends, and take his motorcycle out to "just ride." Bryan's sacrifice is not uncharacteristic
16 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
of his personality. Bryan would do anything he could to help those around him, even if it meant putting aside his own needs and wants." On March 8, 2013, the building known as the Barksdale Fitness Center will be renamed in honor of Sr. Airman Bryan Bell. The Bell Center will not only house state-ofthe-art fitness equipment but also a legacy. Sr. Airman Bell’s legacy of heroism will be showcased in a memorial cabinet located at the entrance of the facility. The cabinet will display EOD equipment and tell the story of an American hero who would do anything to help those around him.
n January 15, 2013, Staff Sgt Jasmine Russell, 2nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron, Personnel Reliability Program alternate monitor, was awarded the medal reserved for American heroes that go beyond the bounds of heroism. Staff Sgt. Russell received the Purple Heart for her valor in combat during her deployment in Afghanistan two years ago. The US has 287 documented female recipients of the Purple Heart since World War II. SSgt Russell is now a part of this very special group of warriors. Russell deployed for the first time to Afghanistan from December 2010 to June 2011, where she was assigned with the U.S. Army as a logistics convoy medic. On January 2, 2011, Sgt. Russell’s convoy of 167 trucks was attacked by an IED. The protected vehicle Russell was riding in was hit by an IED so powerful, the right side of the truck was blown off. Russell happened to be sitting on the right side of the vehicle when the IED hit. “I can't remember whether I lost consciousness or not, my main concern at that time was making sure everybody was ok.” Russell had no visible wounds but her teammates around her knew she was not herself. She was medically evacuated along with the rest of the crew. After many medical tests, Russell was diagnosed with post concussive traumatic brain injury. After some medication and two weeks of rest, she returned to duty and finished her deployment. Prior to leaving Afghanistan, Russell was submitted for the Purple Heart twice, but was denied both times due to lack of documentation. Elizabeth Melahn, an Air Force Recovery Care Coordinator, found out Russell had been denied the Purple Heart twice in country, and began to fight for the rights she felt Russell deserved. RCCs are the Air Force Warrior and Survivor Care Program's focal point for
O
Staff Sargeant Jasmine Russell I can't remember whether I lost consciousness or not, my main concern at that time was making sure everybody was ok. By: Master Sgt. Sabrina D. Foster and Nikki Gebara
non-clinical case management for seriously wounded, ill and injured Airmen, including members of the Reserve and Guard components, and their families. They work to streamline and improve the way care and support are delivered, minimize bureaucracy, advocate for, and offer single point of contact for Airmen and their families along their road to recovery. Russell underwent another battery of tests from three medical providers. The tests established that her condition met criteria for post-concussive syndrome, a mild form of traumatic brain injury. Melahn wrote the record of documentation, and resubmitted it Dec. 3, 2012, along with the three medical reports. The Purple Heart medal was signed Jan. 15. "When I first found out, I had mixed emotions," said Russell. "I was a little bit shocked, I cried. It was a very long two-year process and, I was just relieved that it was over. I was able to have peace of mind knowing it wasn't all in my head, that something was really wrong with me. If it wasn't for the support my commander, Colonel Lollis, Ms. Melahn, and teammates, I wouldn't be here. They cared and supported me 100 percent. I couldn't have done it without them. I am forever indebted to them." "Sergeant Russell is a fine young American and Airman, and I was pleased I was able to help her. She is going great places in this Air Force, and some day, I am quite sure, she will be a chief master sergeant,” said Col. Lollis. Russell continues to have symptoms, but she has made progress, "I still suffer from headaches, confusion about certain things and short-term memory loss. I feel I've come a long way from where I was and am looking forward to progressing with each new day." When asked if she would deploy again, Russell said, "I want to go again. If they told me right now that I had to deploy, I would have my gorilla boxes ready. It's the most rewarding experience in the Air Force, and I'll do it again in a heartbeat."
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 17
Find d Out Why KadeeBell’s ’s is Vo Voted oted One of the Best Busin Businesses nessess in Bossier City! Owner, Brandy Santoro, worked hard to create a gift boutique where people can shop, relax and socialize. It is nicknamed the "Happy Place," as it is a peaceful getaway to de-stress and rejuvenate! Selling a wide variety of merchandise for women, men, and children, Brandy brings her creative expertise. She has years of experience serving the Shreveport, Bossier, and Haughton areas; furthermore, known as “The Basket Queen. Queen." She listens to what youu need and returns with a masterpiece. Let's start with Kadeebells "snoozy's” house shoes! Men and women's sizes are available. Another favorite is the Magnetic bead necklaces that can be taken apart to create a choker, bracelet, long/short necklace - for the small price off $22.00!
Everyone is sure to love the boot bling! Come see the selection and her friendly trained staff will show you how to accessorize with their fun and sassy bling! If you’re looking for that perfect gift for the sports fan in your life, this house ware boutique carries lots of LSU and Saints! The cultural greatness continues with Fleur-de-lis wine glasses, jewelry, and amazing house wares!
Caate Catering to trendy women, en, Ka Kadeebell’s aade deebell’s sells popular products, pr rod such as the popular po opu Fabulous Bath line; ne; inc including clu Bombshell, Starlet rlet an and nd Envy fragrances. These ese aromatic’s are also available ar rom ble soaps, body washes, in so shaving sh hav products, and sh him shimmering lotions. Kad K Kadeebell’s adeebell’s is an exclusive ve wholesaler of the popular who w ar ‘Fabulous Bath’ spa line. ‘F Fab
Find off cross jewelry, Finnd a wide variety o jewelrry ry, y, handbags, and decorated scarves at han Kadeebell’s Kad adeebell’s Boutique! Among their unique stock of chic products, Am they the carry Stephen Joseph brand for kids! Enjoy Enj gourmet coffees, dips, and soups, by “What’s Cookin’," and a variety of “W cookbooks, and cooking accessories! coo Brandy's staff will customize unique Bra baskets on the go, and ship them on any bas occasion such as Christmas, Wedding, occ Birthday, House-warming, and much more! Bir The Th best part is the quality service!
The great Th hee holidays h holidays are here so come see the selection of grea at gifts! at g Monogramming and free gift wrapping are available. Kadeebell’s Boutique utique is one of our favorite places to shop, and we believe you will have the he same great experience! Call or visit today, and tell them Southern Hospitality ospitality Magazine sent you!
1700 Old Minden Rd. Bossier City, La PHONE (318) 747-7920
Archery in Louisiana Schools (ALAS) State Tournament
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he may be small, but KendalFowler is mighty; especially when she has a bow and arrow in hand. The Benton Elementary School student hit the bulls-eye at the Archery in Louisiana Schools (ALAS) State Tournament, held recently in Alexandria. Accruing a total of 271 points, Fowler walked away as the Top Female State Champion, beating out all 500 other
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contenders, even at the middle and high school levels. Benton Elementary’s Aidan Haire finished at the top of his game, too, racking up 263 points. It earned him the title of Top Male Archer across the state, again, beating out the bigger boys. The archery team itself also claimed bragging rights, winning the Elementary Division State Championship. Benton Elementary’s archery team is relatively in its infancy, this being its second year of formation. Benton Middle School also hit the
bulls-eye, earning the Middle School State Championship title. And in the high school division, Bossier High’s JROTC archery team was named State Runner-Up. Coach Perry Norcross, who started Benton Elementary’s team, could not be more proud. He is credited for encouraging other schools to form teams and coordinating local competitions, causing the sport to catch on like wildfire throughout the parish. So what’s next for Bossier Parish’s winning archers? The national tournament in May, which is being held in Louisville, Kentucky. We have our fingers crossed they will be right on target and make their mark when the nation’s best young archers come together.
rather than exclusive, explaining that as a military child she has moved numerous times and knows what it is like “being the new kid.” She has appreciated those people that have welcomed her and tries to do the same when new children transition into her school and community. Bossier’s Middle School Student of the year is one busy girl. Leah Huber, an eighth grader at Cope, also carries a 4.0 GPA and is captain of Cope’s Prideline. She is on the Math Counts team, Destination Imagination, active in her church and
serves as a mentor once a week at “GREAT,” which is an equestrian therapy program for children with special needs. Huber’s favorite phrase is “Busy girls never have time to cry.” It speaks to her because she believes if someone keeps busy and fills her life with positive, good things, there is no time to feel sorry for yourself, whine or mope. Her other favorite adage comes from Bossier
Students of the Year
he caliber of students attending Bossier Schools never ceases to amaze. Their gifts and talents are many; from academics and the arts to athletics and the many ways they serve their community. That is certainly the case with Bossier’s three Parish Students of the Year for 201213. Here is a brief introduction of each accomplished young lady. Shannon Mathers is Bossier’s Elementary Student of the Year. The fifth grader attends W.T. Lewis maintains a 4.0 grade point average, excels in math, and enjoys art, drawing, reading and acting. Mathers is also a budding entrepreneur, who has a flourishing pet sitting business. In her finalist essay, Mathers wrote about the importance of being inclusive
BIG THINGS H 20 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
A
George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts rtist George Rodrigue, the Louisiana native known for his “Blue Dog” paintings, has his eye on two talented Bossier Parish art students. Alfonso Vaca Loyola, a junior at Airline High School, and Alex Richardson, a senior at Parkway High, are among the top 10 finalists in the prestigious George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts Contest. More than 600 entries were submitted state-wide. The theme of the contest is “Louisiana’s Culinary Heritage.” Vaca Loyola painted “The Cut-
ting Edge of Louisiana,” which symbolizes Louisianans’ love for crawfish and Tabasco hot sauce. Richardson’s artwork is entitled “Gumbo Jazz,” and features a chef cooking up a spicy roux full of seafood and all that jazz. The two young men are now in the running for $45,000 in college scholarships and placement in a new “Louisiana Culinary Heritage” cookbook, featuring 100 recipes from Louisiana’s greatest chefs. No doubt you will see and hear more from these up-and-coming artists in the near future.”
Gumbo Jazz
The Cutting Edge Of Louisiana
HAPPENING By Sonja Bailes, Public Relations Liaison at Bossier Parish School Board
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 21
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Rodeway Inn & Suites 3033 Hilton Dr. Bossier City, LA 71111 Phone: (318) 747-2400 Fax: (318) 747-6822 www.southernhostlodging.com
Best Extended Stay Hotel SHM 2013
24 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
Best Corporate Hotel SHM 2013
Microtel Inn & Suites 2713 Village Lane Bossier City, LA 71112 Phone: (318) 742-7882 Fax: (318) 213-6316 www.southernhostlodging.com
Howard Johnson Inn 1984 Airline Drive Bossier City, LA 71112 Phone: (318) 742-6000 Fax: (318) 742-4615
Best Budget Hotel SHM 2013
Š Photos by: Smith Photographic Services, Inc.
www.southernhostlodging.com
Distinguished Men AJ Hickey AJ Hickey was born and raised in New York and moved to Louisiana 12 years ago to serve his country in the United States Air Force. He served for six years proudly as he grew into the health and wellness industry. AJ currently ownshis own personal training company, Anytime Fitness, The Perfect Blend, and the all new Pro27 Athletics in Bossier City. He has worked with several ex mudbug hockey players, ex NFL athletes, professional MMA fighters, and Miss Louisiana pageant contestants for the last 6 years. He has been featured in articles in Woman’s Day Magazine and has been on the local news multiple times for being an expert in health and wellness. He also does a lot of local events to help other businesses with sales, management, and health consultations for motivation.
J. Bruce Bryant J. Bruce Bryant is Regional Counsel/Administrator for Dept. of Health and Hospital, Office of the Secretary, for north Louisiana and is licensed to practice law in MS, LA and TX. He is also the founder and President of Showbizz Entertainment Agency (SEA) and started the Ark-La-Tex Hawaiian Tropic Pagent in 1992. He incorporated and held the position of Vice President of Godfather Productions, Inc., a company promoting and producing regional musicians and bands. As an adjunct Professor of Media Law, Advertising and Public Relations at Northwestern State University, he has assisted many young journalist in developing a keen awareness of the First Amendment and their responsibility to protect its' guaranteed freedoms. He has also taught Business Law at LSU-S and created/developed the first internship program for its' Paralegal Studies Program.
26 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
Southern Hospitality Magazine has chosen 12 distinguished men of Bossier City whom deserve recognition for their accomplishments in vision, leadership, and for all of their contributions for Bossier City. We will acknowledge 3 outstanding men chosen for this issue and the rest of them will be honored in our summer, July 4th issue! All of our men have played an enormous role in shaping lives and setting the example of what a true Distinguished Man should be!
Don O’Byrne Don O’Byrne is President/Founder of Don Juanz Baja Beach Tacos. He opened Don Juanz in Bossier City in 2006. He currently has patents pending with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office for national branding & culinary processes he has developed @ Don Juanz. He desires to keep the Bossier City location as a business model for his planned expansion in Louisiana & eventually out of state. His culinary experience ranges from fine dining to catering to casual dining. He has 17 years total combined experience with companies such as the Anatole Hotels’ Nana Grille in Dallas as Front House Manager; the Anaheim Marriott Hotel, where he worked his way up to Food & Beverage Director; the Red Onion & Tortilla Flats in Los Angeles & Newport Beach, where he started in the kitchen & movedinto management; Vertigo Club, Los Angeles, as bar manager & Houston’s, Atlanta, where he was a Team Leader .
Rick Rose Rick Rose is an Emmy award winning producer and director who has worked over two decades in television, stage and film. His vast experience includes projects from NYC to LA with much time spent in the Midwest as an on-air personality. Rick also enjoys community service having been named CASA Volunteer of the Year on a couple of occasions, serving as the Executive Director of the AIDS Mastery, being a founding member of Angel on My Shoulder helping those living with cancer, advocating for women's and LGBT rights and assisting those who are abused. Rick currently expresses his passion for food and fellowship as the proprietor of Twine on Line, Shreveport's tea room by day, wine bar at night where you will always find a blend of happening music, art, culinary adventures and charity events.
Southern Hospitality Magazine asked…Do you have a Beauty Roadmap to your life? Bossier City / Shreveport
Joanna Folse-Alexander
Corporate Director of Sales/Marketing, Sunrise Hospitality Company
A. When you are happy, you are able to share that happiness with the people mostimportant in your life. Share your talents, abilities and gifts with other and help make our world a better place in unity.
Sonja Bailes
Public Relations Liaison at Bossier Parish School Board
A. “It may sound cliché, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I find beauty in all things around me; whether it is the people I meet or life itself. Each of us is given a choice; to be optimists and view life and the circumstances we encounter in a positive light or a negative one. I choose to take the optimistic approach and see the glass half full rather than half empty. Smiling also doeswonders for the face; that and lipstick!”
Leslie Cantrell
When you think about what makes you outrageously happy, do you know what that is? Let us help you map out the road to your most gorgeous self… on the inside and out!
Dr. Nikki Gebarra
Instructs Online and On-Campus for Uni. of Central Missouri & Louisiana Tech University
A. Roadmaps are necessary to plot direction and purpose of travel. In life, even with the most well planned roadmaps, detours are often necessary to fully explore the route. I believe it is imperative we all consider detours, pleasant or otherwise, large or small, significant in their teaching ability. We, as humans, are the sum total of our journey. A beautiful roadmap includes unanticipated stops, new routes, and the allotment of time to fully appreciate the ever-changing landscape of our lives.
Lisa Johnson
President & CEO of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce
A. My roadway to beauty is to have complete trust in God!
Gina Kiser
Owner of CC & Company
A. Taking care of your health, your body,and believing in yourself is the key to beauty. But, everyone is beautiful in their own way, the first and most important in a good life is to put your faith towards God and Trust him!
CEO of Adrenaline 24/7 Fitness & Sports
A. Sincere love begins with ourselves. We are able to take that love and project it in our daily lives. That is the kind of love that shines from within me when I meet new people and create new relationships.
Neice Masterson
Owner Beyond Pink & Blue Baby Boutique
A. We do not have control over HOW this happens. We only have control of WHY we do what we do. Having fierce passion and releasing of all doubt is what allows each of us to achieve our goals. What are you passionate about in your business? Allow that to fuel you on a day to day basis toward the big picture in life and everything you do!
Leslie Matthews
Matthews Thoroughbred Farm - Owner LIRM Properties, LLC & Air Brush Tanning by Leslie
A. Being and remaining beautiful includes putting God first which brings the inner beauty that is essential in my life. As a very active horse farm owner, I use a good sunscreen and get plenty of exercise which contributes to my outer beauty. My road map consists of combining the two forces to continue walking in the path God has chosen for me.
It may sound cliché, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder Beautiful Faces Continued on Page 30
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 27
Bossier City / Shreveport Continued
Tracy McGill
Director of Public Relations, BPCC
Stephanie Rogers
Connie Thurmond
A. My faith is the compass that guides my life. My family and friends are the foundation that keeps me grounded. Seeing others flourish and become productive as a result of some small role I may have contributed is the inspiration that keeps me going – it is why we do what we do at BPCC.
A. Living a nice clean life, focus on the good things in life get rid of anything negative in my life or at least try - work hard at something I love - give to others because God has been so good to us have fun with your spouse-family and take time for myself. Do things that make me happy - I love to buy “things� that why my business is just perfect for me - I can buy for me or others. My business is a happy business and this make me happy - a happy person is a beautiful person! Pray everyday! maybe more than once.
BPCC Foundations Alumni Affairs & Development
A. Confidence in yourself and your abilities is an important trait in your pursuit of success. Focusing your time, energy and thoughts on taking care of yourself will help you reflect your beauty in every area of your life!
Denise Odem
Executive Director for Louisiana Eye Bank
A. Since I really believe beauty comes from within my roadmap in life is to always believe in God and yourself and have faith that you can do anything you really want. Each one of us was created with a beautiful and unique soul and if we use every day to help others and be loving and kind to each other our inner beauty will shine on the outside.
DaNeill Reyenga Owner of Tangles Salon
A. Share your talents, abilities and gifts with other and help make our world a better place in unity. In all of your business endeavors, it is still important to make time to play. What every girl under the age of twenty-one can teach all women of any age is to HAVE FUN!!
Southern Hospitality Magazine Would Like to Welcome Margaritaville Casino & Resort to Bossier City!
Co-Owner Connie & V. Cross Jewelers
always believe in
God and yourself
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MargaritavilleBossierCity.com R facebook.com/MargaritavilleBossierCity
28 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
D
aNeill Reyenga
Owner DaNeill Reyenga, is the rising star of hairdressing in Bossier City!
S Special Occasion Styling Photo Shoot Styling Bridal Packages >&&0 ,$):(2($)()< Speciality Weaves 7*?&$@&#' 4(<.+(<.2' A$B+(<.2' ;+$B$92' "&#/'
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(318) 741-1048 ((318) 318) 426-7638 426-7638
2716 Plantation Dr, Bossier City, LA
he is a devoted wife, mother of three beautiful children, and a perfect example of a modern woman!
DaNeill began her cosmetology career from the age of 16, and developed her knowledge and experience through her grandmother’s guidance. Her driving passion has always been to create breathtaking styles, and offer a unique personal touch to each of her customers. Her creative talents and high standards have enabled her to become a leading professional!
tion keeps our team on the front lines of the industry,” stated DaNeill. She performs a multitude of services and has many unique areas of expertise. If you have seriously considered hair extensions, DaNeill Reyenga is your local professional! With years of experience, she is a mastermind at her craft. Her gift with matching colors and applying natural-looking hair extensions is genius!
After earning a degree in Cosmetology at Guys Academy, she opened her own salon entitled Tangles. Tangles Salon is located behind Good Eats Restaurant in Bossier City, and occupies a highly trained yet friendly staff. Not only dedicated to her own clients, she selects her stylists based on their unique styling techniques, talents, and expert service. DaNeill’s clientele includes some of !" $%& '()*"( '+, -"%-," in Bossier City. This twenty eight-year-old woman is on the cutting edge, literally!
Fabulous hair color does not happen by chance. The only way to achieve truly spectacular hair color every time is through the skill and creativity of an expert. When you want to look especially beautiful “just because,” you can count on DaNeill to give you a gorgeous up-do you’ll never forget! Tangles services include hair sculpting, styling, color, highlighting, color correction, perms, braiding, straight, short haircuts, hair coloring, styling, and much more! This salon is dedicated to assisting you in developing a personal style that looks great, and that you love. You are sure to feel good about yourself after a visit to Tangles!
DaNeill is always looking for new challenges. She has high attention to detail, is goal oriented, and has high standards for herself and her business. “Ongoing educa-
Get pampered and look your very best! Awaken your true style with fresh vibrant color at Tangles Salon, where your hair is the ultimate fashion accessory!
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 29
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S O R G N OU
T N E M N I A T R E T EN SENTS PRE
AND G NY N O I M N E E R P DO G CE N N A I T R T G U ITS NC RIBBO 4-7 PM
11 0 2 , 1 1 T AUGUS REET T S L L A SH 515 MAR VEPORT, L A SHRE
FOR MORE INFO, Call 318 759 7767 or visit www.youngprosent.com.
30 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
The Perfect Blend Smoothie & Juice Bar • Health Food Store • Physical Fitness
Q&A with AJ Hickey SHM: What are the benefits between Perfect Blend protein powders versus others on the market? AJ Hickey: We carry all of the regular proteins seen everywhere as well as the ones you can't find anywhere. We also watch protein testing reports to make sure we are getting the highest quality to our customers. This allows us to be completely different, educated, and honest. SHM: Perfect Blend has a good reputation on there smoothie drinks. Tell us the benefits of your smoothies and how they are so healthy for you? AJ Hickey: Most of our smoothies are made with a soft serve fat free vanilla yogurt base, real fruit, and a higher quality protein! High quality protein, healthy cultures, antioxidants, and no added sugars is our delivery. Great taste and health can't be beat! FREE SUPPLEMENT COUNSELING! Call to schedule an appointment!
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• Wide Variety of LSU Selections: Gowns, Shirts, Outfits, Tu-Tus (girls & boys) • Custom Made Bows to Match All Outfits • Forest Creations Custom Frames • New Orleans Who Dat Bloomers, Boxers • Hand Make Baskets for Baby Showers • Baby Registry • Birthday Cake Knife …From Their 1st Birthday To Their Wedding Cake! • Free Gift Wrapping With Any Purchase!
2159 Airline Drive • Bossier City, LA 71111
(318) 752 - 9192 LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 31
Our goal is to make our patrons feel appreciated, and to provide Legendary customer service to them. 32 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 33
Spring Plumbing Tips with Roach Plumbing
April showers bring May flowers and the onset of spring, which means it’s time for “spring cleaning” for your homes pipes and drainage systems. Here are 15 quick and simple spring plumbing tips to protect your home against plumbing problems: 1. Check faucets for drips or leaks. Make repairs to save water. 2. Check toilets for hidden leaks. Add six drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the bowl within 30 minutes 3. Ensure that all drains have strainers to prevent hair, soap and debris from clogging the drain lines. 4. Inspect toilet tank and bowl for cracks or leaks. 5. Exercise water supply valves under sinks and toilets to prevent them from sticking. 6. Make sure toilets flush properly. If the handle must be held down for a thorough flush or jiggled to stop the water from running you may need to replace worn tank parts. They’re inexpensive and you’ll notice a lower water bill. 7. Check the temperature setting on the water heater. It should be set no higher than 120°F to prevent scalding and reduce energy use.
made.) Newer water heaters are more energy efficient 10. Pour a gallon of water into infrequently used drains (including floor drains) to fill the trap and prevent odors from entering the house. Slow floor drains should be snaked to ensure they will carry away water quickly in the event of a flood. 11. Check exposed pipes under sinks and in the basement for signs of leaks. 12. If your home has a sump pump, make sure it operates properly by pouring a few buckets of water into the sump pit. The pump should quickly turn on, discharge the water then shut off without any problems. 13. Install a backflow valve in the floor drain if you live in an area where sewers sometimes back up into homes. This device will prevent future backups 14. Make sure yard drains, gutters and downspouts are cleaned out, open, and free of debris. 15. Check faucets and hose bibs to make sure water flows freely. If an outdoor faucet drips or if there is leakage inside your home the first time the hose is turned on, you may have had a frozen pipe that cracked and needs to be replaced.
8. Carefully drain several gallons from the water heater tank to flush out corrosion causing sediment, which reduces heating efficiency and shortens the life of the heater. 9. Consider replacing a water heater more than 15 years old. (The first four numbers of the serial number represent the month and year it was
This is just a handful of the useful services and solutions that Roach Plumbing can provide your home this spring. If you are interested in the full run down of our plumbing services you can check them out at www.roachplumbing.com or you can schedule a service maintenance of your plumbing and drain systems by calling, Roach Plumbing at 318-631-4533.
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 35
ShopVillaggio.com
LITTLEBIGMAG.COM / FALL ~WINTER 2012-2013
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A “Fine-Dining Experience” with the Southern California & Baja Mexican cooking experience.
SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY MAGAZINE
DINING & CASINO ENTERTAINMENT IN BOSSIER CITY 1. 2 JOHNS STEAK AND SEAFOOD Voted: Best All Round Elegant Fine Dining Restaurant - Full service bar, live piano music, and patio www.2johnsrestaurant.com 2. RALPH AND KACOOS Voted: Best Seafood Restaurant - Cajun cuisine featuring a variety of seafood dishes, and famous bread pudding! www.ralphandkacoos.com 3. TEXAS ROADHOUSE Voted: Best Steakhouse RestaurantHand cut steaks, fall off the bone ribs, cold beer, and family friendly www.texasroadhouse.com 4. DON JUANZ Voted: Best Family Owned - Mexican Restaurant & Best Ambiance - Upscale, fast-casual Mexican restaurant/bar, Baja- style fish tacos Best Prickly Pear Margaritas! www.donjuanz.com 5. NICKY’S MEXICAN RESTUARANT Voted: Best 2 for 1 Enchiladas every Monday and Tuesday! Best Shrimp Fajitas and Margarita’s www.nickysmexicanrestaurants.net 6. NOTINI’S RESTAURANT Voted: Best Family Italian Restaurant - They have a wide variety of homemade family dishes such as Fettuccini Alfredo, Lasagna, Ravioli, and Muffulettas. Don't forget their most popular and successful Spiced Mint Tea! Freshly brewed mint tea www.notinis.net 7. SHOGUN Voted: Best Japanese Restaurant - Sho Gun restaurants or traditional Japanese-style hibachi steakhouses called "teppanyaki". At Shogun of Japan, your meal is prepared and served by performing chef, right at your table. Choose from a variety of sushi and other Japanese favorites. Now open for lunch! www.myshogun.com 8. GOOD EATS Voted: Best Sandwich/Deli - Lunch, Groceries, sandwiches, salads, soups and more. Best Basil Soup ever, and smoked turkey cheddar sandwiches! www.visitgoodeats.com 9. STRAWN'S EAT SHOP Voted: One of the Best diners in the south! Hot lunch specials, and famous strawberry pie! www.strawnseatshop.com
40 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
10. MONJUNIS Voted Best Italian Cafe' and Grocery - Monjunis is a great place for some really good Italian food! Great atmosphere, service, food and drink, one of the best Italian restaurants in town! Crawfish or shrimp fettuccini, and muffulettas! www.monjunis.com 11. SILVER STAR SMOKEHOUSE Voted: Best Barbecue - Wall Street Journal rated Silver Star in Top 10 for barbecue. Lunch specials daily. 12. TIGER TOWN DINER Voted: Best New Diner (in Bossier City) - Home Cooked Breakfast, Gourmet Burgers & Subs, Daily Home Cooking! 13. BOOMTOWN CASINO & HOTEL Voted: Most Friendliest Casino in town Voted as having the “Best Reel Slots” and “Best Video Poker" by Casino Player Magazine! Boomtown features three floors of gaming with more than 1,100 of the newest and hottest slots and video poker machines, plus more than 29 table games. Everyone’s a winner at Boomtown! Boomtown is located close to Sci-Port Discovery Center, Louisiana Boardwalk, and Riverview Park. Nearby points of interest also include Shreveport Convention Hall and Spring Street Historical Museum. A person can workup quite an appetite by mingling with friendly strangers and familiar faces. Whatever food you’re craving, you’re sure to find it at Boomtown. From juicy steaks to your favorite Mexican dishes, a snack from our café or a feast at our buffet. www.boomtownbossier.com 1800 PRIME STEAKHOUSE You’re invited to experience Prime Steak perfection. We serve the very best in steakhouse dining that includes a selection of quality prime rib and seafood. CATTLEMAN'S BUFFET Even the biggest of appetites doesn't stand a chance! So go on feast on all of your favorites!! Whatever your tastes, we've got it! Just make sure you leave room for dessert! SUNDANCE CANTINA In between the action of the tables come and enjoy American favorites with a southwestern flair, like our signature burgers, fajitas or sizzling shrimp. BOOMER'S CAFE For a tasty meal or quick snack on the go, Boomer's Cafe offers a variety of tasty food that's always on the money.
14. HORSESHOE CASINO & HOTEL Voted Best Luxurious Hotel and Casino (in Bossier City) Topping the skyline is the 24-story Bossier City tower that houses the world-class Horseshoe Bossier City luxury hotel. From the moment you enter our hotel lobby, you'll see that we have placed luxury and comfort at the top of our priority list. To ensure easy access to the hotel, casino and restaurants, you’ll find 3,200 spaces of free parking, including free valet service, as well as covered parking in our convenient garage. Horseshoe Bossier City is where gamblers belong - a Bossier City Casino offering the very best slots, table games and poker. Entertainment from big name concerts exciting nightlife. Whether you prefer a rock show or laughing the night away Horseshoe is the place to be. www.horseshoebossiercity.com DINING AT HORSESHOE BOSSIER CITY At Horseshoe Bossier City, restaurants ranging from casual dining to fine dining are ready to satisfy your every hunger. 8 OZ. BURGER BAR It’s not just a burger, it’s a commitment, at this 24-hour spot with a friendly, relaxed environment. FOUR WINDS Our exotic and authentic Asian restaurant features five cuisines: Cantonese, Mandarin, Szechwan, Vietnamese and Thai. JACK BINION’S STEAK HOUSE The signature fine dining experience at Horseshoe, Jack Binion’s serves steaks as legendary as the man whose name is on the door. THE SPREAD Indulge without remorse at The Spread, Horseshoe Bossier City’s buffet all-you-can-eat experience. 15. HARRAH’S LOUISIANA DOWNS Voted: Friendliest and Best Quality Service Casino & Hotel, (in Bossier) With over 150,000 sq. ft. of fun, Harrah’s Louisiana Downs is the place to Come Out and Play your favorite slots. Harrah’s offers casino gambling at its finest and most fun, and features 22-foot-high ceilings, a High Limit area and dozens of plasma screen televisions where you can watch simulcast racing from across the country or catch your favorite sport while you play the slots. If you’re looking for Bossier City hotel accommodations, SpringHill Suites by Marriott is located right on the Harrah’s Louisiana Downs grounds. If you are looking for a great place dine, look no further than Harrah´s Louisiana Downs. www.harrahslouisianadowns.com FUDDRUCKERS Chow down on the World’s Greatest Hamburgers at Fuddruckers, now at Louisiana Downs. Choose from signature burgers or
customize your own, with different meats, toppings and the famous Fuddruckers produce bar. Try a half-pound Bacon Cheddar Burger, Tricked Out Nachos, a Dogzilla hot dog or any of our other amazing burgers or signature entrees, then hit the sweet spot with a shake or malt. HARRAH’S CLUB Located on a prime perch on the third floor of the Harrah’s Louisiana Downs casino and racetrack complex, Harrah’s Club is an elegant Bossier City restaurant offering Southern style fine dining all day long. Reservations are recommended. PEPPER ROSE TOO Pepper Rose Too is a Harrah’s Louisiana Downs casual dining option serving up everything from Cowboy Creole cuisine to Deli selections on the second level. Favorites from the grill include BBQ ribs, burgers and chicken dinners. THE BUFFET This is a great spot for lunch or dinner, offering the best Bossier City’s buffet - all-you-can-eat spreads served at lunch or dinner from nine live action stations cooking up over 100 menu items, including Mexican, Italian and Asian cuisine. Plus, the Center Cut Grill features a rotisserie and carving station. Save room for dessert and enjoy fresh-baked pastries, pies and cakes and mark your calendar for the Prime Rib dinner on Fridays, seafood dinner Saturdays and Brunch every Sunday.
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 41
*See stores for details. Not valid with other oďŹ&#x20AC;ers. $8.99 dinners available Mon- Thurs, until 6 pm, Sat until 3pm. Listed items only. Availability subject to change on holidays.
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mon-thur until 6pm Saturday until 3pm
Call Ahead Seating! 318-746-7122
$ *RXOG 'U Â&#x2021; %RVVLHU &LW\ /$
Voted Most Popular New Restaurant in Shreveport by Southern Hospitality Magazine!
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HERE TO SERVE YOU Reserve the Wine or Tea Room for private parties of up to 12 people! Book an Afternoon Tea or Japanese Tea Ceremony any day from 2p-4p. Bakery & Pastry Special Orders / Full Catering / Rent Out Twine
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minutes Prep Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 25
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44 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
White Chocolate Banana Pudding
Preparation: 1. In large bowl, beat White cho col pudding mix, sweetened conden ate sed milk, at medium speed with a mixer Ingredients: until smooth. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups 2 (3.3 oz) boxes INSTANT milk, beating until smooth and White chocolate thick. Stir in whipped topping. pudding mix. 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened conden 2. In a separate large bowl, bea sed milk. (like t vanilla eagle brand) pudding mix, cream, and rem ain ing 1 2 1/2 cups 2% milk, divided cup milk at medium speed wit (1 1/2, then 1 cup) h mixer 1 (16 oz) container frozen wh until smooth and thick. ipped topping, thawed 2 (3.4 oz) boxes INSTANT vanilla pudding mix. 3. In large trifle dish or serving bowl, 2 cups half and half or 1 large layer white pudding mixture, can of bananas, evaporated milk vanilla pudding mixture, and vanilla 6 medium bananas, thinly slic wafers and repeat as desired. ed Store, cov ered, in refrigerator for up to 1 (12 oz.) box vanilla wafer coo 2 kies days. Garnish with white cho Garnish: white chocolate curls, col ate vanilla curls and vanilla wafers b/4 ser wafers ving. (Optional)
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Recipe Card Graphics Courtesy of Sassaby
www.sassaby.com.au
LittleBigMag.com | Southern Hospitality 45
The Best Way to Find Love is to Find
GOD
through Creation! By Debbie Dillard
Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet My unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you, Isaiah 54:10. Through creation we glimpse God's power, wisdom, his majesty and beauty. The earth is the fairest jewel in God's creation and it is the chosen place in the whole universe where He has promised to reveal His Kingdom in all its glory. Just as God is the source of all truth and goodness, He is the Supreme Artist – the Creator of all. “There is no peace more wonderful than the peace we enjoy when faith shows us God in all created things.” When we look up at the stars, we see the fingerprints of God. Although man is unable to calculate the exact number of stars, we now know their number is infinite. "He counts the number of the stars; He calls them all by name" (Psalm 147:4). What an awesome God! The first three verses of Genesis accurately express all known aspects of the creation (Genesis 1:13). Science expresses the universe in terms of: time, space, matter, and energy. In Genesis chapter one we read: "In the beginning (time) God created the heavens (space) and the earth (matter)...Then God said, "Let there be light (energy)." No other creation account agrees with the observable evidence. Oceans contain springs (Job 38:16).The ocean is very deep. Almost all the ocean floor is in total darkness and the pressure there is enormous. It would have been impossible for Job to have explored the "springs of the sea." Until recently, it was thought that oceans were fed only by rivers and rain. Yet in the 1970's, with the help of deep diving research submarines that were constructed to withstand 6,000 pounds-per-square-inch pressure, oceanographers discovered springs on the ocean floors! There are mountains on the bottom of the ocean floor (Jonah 2:5-6). Only in the last century have we discovered that there are towering mountains and deep trenches in the depths of the sea. God’s glory can be seen in many different aspects of creation—not just the heavens. Anyone who takes a close look at snowflakes can see that they come in a variety of shapes. It is estimated that a single cubic meter of snow holds about 350 million snowflakes! These flakes are all hexagonal and have crystal-like structures. However, each one of them 48 Southern Hospitality | LittleBigMag.com
possesses a unique shape by a gifted designer! Everything comes from God alone. Everything lives by his power, and everything is for his glory. Romans 11:36 (LB) God’s glory is best seen in Jesus Christ. He, the Light of the world, illuminates God’s nature. Because of Jesus, we are no longer in the dark about what God is really like. In the entire universe, only two of God’s creations fail to bring glory to him: fallen angels (demons) and us (people). HOW CAN We BRING GLORY TO GOD? Worshiping him! God is inviting us to enjoy him.” God wants our worship to be motivated by love, thanksgiving, prayer, a relationship with him. We bring God glory by loving other believers. We do this by loving one another unconditionally! After all, this honors God! We bring God glory by becoming like Christ. Spiritual maturity is becoming like Jesus in the way we think, feel, and act. We bring God glory by serving others with our gifts. Each of us was uniquely designed by God with talents, gifts, skills, and abilities. God didn’t give you your abilities for selfish purposes.They were given to benefit others, just as others were given abilities for your benefit. We bring God glory by telling others about him. God doesn’t want his love and purposes kept a secret. Once we know the truth, he expects us to share it with others. This is a great privilege-introducing others to Jesus, helping them discover their purpose, and preparing them for their eternal destiny! No matter who we meet on this journey, there will not be anyone who loves us more than God. He created each one of us in his glory as a part of him! His love for you extends from before the world was made into eternity. It is a love that cannot be broken. Your name is written on is heart. He moves heaven and earth to care for you. You are his beloved. You will always be his creation, his child!