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LOUISIANA LADIES

8 The Libbi Thomas Foundation A life that left a legacy of love.

49 Date Night Making the time even when it’s easier not to 64 Instant Gratification Living in a world of “we want it now” 83 At Peace or in Pieces

HOME AND ENTERTAINING 78 Lou Lou Sucre’ Girls Night In

38 Hostess with the Mostess Farmers Market Finds 34 Interior Plants How to become a successful plant parent

HEALTH AND BEAUTY FASHION 44 Summer Breeze Your guide for sunscreen

68 What’s Next for Skin Care The latest beauty product breakthrough

KIDDOS

14 Sweet-Summertime Fashion Both new and vintage styles

COMMUNITY

72 Louisiana Mainstreet Take a tour through Historical Downtown Ruston

54 The Summer Slide How to prevent summer slowdown

81 Audiobook Review An Uplifting Climate Collaboration

58 Kids Crafts Summer craft to keep kiddos busy

29 Robinsons Rescue Best in Sheaux 84 Must Attend Events 88 Give Back Spotlight Moving Mountains for Miriam

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Bring on SUMMER! B

y August I am certain I will be ready for routine and counting the days until the kids go back to school, but for now… bring on SUMMER! Last evening as the sun was going down, the kids were showing off their biggest cannonballs into the swimming pool. My dad has the best time cheering them on. He bellylaughs at every giant splash! Wet towels and paper plates with half-eaten pizza crust were laying on the deck surrounded by little footprints to and from the pool. As rare as it may be, I sat down, took a breath and reminded myself to take in the moment. Although it is said “routine is key,” you can’t beat the freedom that comes with sweet summertime. There was no need to rush home for homework, baths and bedtime. We stayed in the pool until dark, ate ice-cream sandwiches, listened to old country music, and to be honest, we skipped bath time all together, because chlorine counts… Right? This issue of Lola Magazine is filled with all the things that summer brings. Check out tips for Farmers’ Market shopping, choosing the right sunscreen for your family, sweet summertime fashion, summer kids crafts, and much more. Take a tour down Historical Downtown Ruston as they prepare for the 2021 Peach Festival. We are also honored to share the Libbi Thomas Foundation, a life that left a legacy of love. As we dive into these long summer days, we hope that you find the time to slow down a bit and take in the moments. Before we know it, we will be shopping for school supplies and picking out lunch boxes… Until then, let’s leave the wet towels for a minute and watch the cannonball contest until the sun goes down.

Cheers! Bevin

PUBLISHER Bevin Sutton Hicks Bevin@readlola.com 985-285-3742 MARKETING & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Carie Cotter Hart Carie@readlola.com 318-573-6847 DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Tommy Stow Sutton 318-560-5785 DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Charles Anderson DISTRIBUTION ASSOCIATE Carl Hammock GRAPHIC ARTIST & ADVERTISING DESIGN Richard Creative Lola@Richard-Creative.com CONTENT EDITOR Kathy Spurlock CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Donesa Walker Jessica Comegys Victoria Arnold Sabrina Newell Dr. Karen Pendleton Patricia Thomas Harper Sarah Thomas Cobbs Stephanie Jordan Jennifer McGimsey Payton Denney Rosemary McMaster Dr. Souyoul Danielle Richard Wesley Harris CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brittany Strickland Jarrett Warren Victoria Arnold COVER

PHOTOGRAPHY AND MAKEUP: Brittany Strickland / Rachael McCoy MODELS: Sigourney Perez / Tryniti Hamlet / Maggie Crawford CLOTHES PROVIDED BY: Bullets & Butterflies Vintage

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION carie@readlola.com or visit Readlola.com FIND US ON FACEBOOK lola-magazine-lifestylesof-louisiana-ladies *Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited. Lola Magazine is published bi-monthly by Stamper Marketing, LLC. 428 Mohican Lane, Shreveport, La 71106, Phone (318) 573-6847. Lola Magazine reserves the right to accept or reject any advertiser. Distribution of Lola Magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products and/or services. Lola Magazine makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the publication’s content. Nonetheless, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information, nor the absence of errors. No responsibility will be assumed. Visit us online at readlola.com to subscribe. Lola Magazine is owned by Stamper Marketing, LLC.

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HONORING OUR SISTER There is a widely held belief that every one of us appears on this earth with a specific role, a sacred duty to fulfill, and I certainly subscribe to that way of thinking. Perhaps there is a message to be delivered or some special task to perform, or a life to change. None of us is here by accident. Each of us is placed here to change the world. 8

WRITTEN BY PATRICIA THOMAS HARPER

ibbi Thomas came to earth with a destiny. She came to teach us all specific lessons. Those she touched were strengthened in their faith and learned lessons of humility. She brought us joy and reduced us to tears, as any great teacher does. God made us sisters so we could travel this path together. Every step in her journey, from her birth through the haze of Alzheimer’s taught me lessons. God made us sisters so we could travel this path together. In 1960, my sister Libbi was born with Down syndrome. That world was vastly different from today regarding our understanding and support of individuals with disabilities. When Libbi was born, a mere four pounds, her prognosis was not good. Our understanding was that her mobility would be limited at best. The ability to effectively communicate would be unlikely and any type of learning or education would be difficult, if not impossible.

However, over the past 60 years, I witnessed my sister’s miracle milestones every day. Her crawling became walking, which turned into boundless dancing. Babbling became talking and eventually exuberant singing. Playing with blocks became reciting the alphabet and then fearlessly attending her first day of school. Teenage years turned to adulthood, and Libbi was sassy and social and she loved the world of politics. She met five U. S. Presidents and four First Ladies. She interned for two United States Senators. She danced, loved country music, she journaled daily, and she lived every day to the fullest --- until five years ago when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease during an examination at The Down’s Syndrome Clinic for Neurological Care in Boston. While Alzheimer’s disease crept in slowly, it took what Libbi was most proud of; her independence. She prided herself in her stylish ways and suddenly selecting clothes began to be confusing. She was quite tech savvy and loved her iPhone, her iPad and her laptop. If you were her friend, you received an email or a phone call every day. Those devices too, became more difficult for her to use. She would often forget to eat and she began falling as her gait began to change. Much of my career was spent as an advocate for various issues, primarily in focusing on health care and issues of the aging population. I crafted messages and positions, I lobbied members of congress and state officials, I worked with local community groups and always focused on positive outcomes with a goal of fixing things. Over the past five years, as Libbi’s health declined and even the memories of her happy, independent life slipped slowly away from her, I had to face the fact that there is no cure for Alzheimer’s. Down syndrome can’t be cured, and I couldn’t fix this. But when it came to challenges that would affect the quality of life of my sister and people like her, inaction was not a strategy I was familiar with, so, the funding research that would find the link between Alzheimer’s and Down syndrome became my chosen course of action. Forming the Libbi Thomas Foundation would allow me to help to ensure that individuals born with Down syndrome in the future would not have to face such a cruel disease. We have since learned that this Alzheimer’s is now diagnosed in approximately 30% of those born with Down syndrome who reach age 50 and 50% of those who reach age 60. We are fortunate to

have Dr. Florence Lai and Dr. Diana Rosas from Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital leading this study as pioneers in this field of research. Dr. Lai believes that the study will identify certain indicators that may predict the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and enable researchers to learn more about its link with Down syndrome. Dr. Rosas and her team have focused on the development of biomarkers to study neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease in Down syndrome. She and her team of researchers have begun to develop models that could explain clinical heterogeneity and disease progression. “For my many wonderful patients with Down syndrome who have genuinely brightened the lives of their families and friends (including me), I dedicate my professional energy to eradicate Alzheimer disease from their lives,” said Dr. Lai. The Libbi Thomas Foundation was created to provide a better future for people with Down’s Syndrome. The good news is that these individuals are living longer. The Libbi Thomas Foundation is committed to ensuring that others not only live longer, but that those years are as fulfilling as the rest of their beautiful lives. I am so proud of all that Libbi accomplished in her 60 years, and with today’s new advancements, I know that she was not alone in her accomplishments. The world today is a very different place, offering many more benefits to those living with disabilities. We are so grateful to the many who have already pledged their support to The Libbi Thomas Foundation, allowing Libbi’s zeal for life and helping others to continue to live on in her absence. All children deserve the best that this world can provide and that is what The Libbi Thomas Foundation is striving to do—to further ensure that the lives of those born with Down syndrome are grand and that the fear of Alzheimer’s doesn’t lurk around every corner for the families and their beautiful children. For more information about our work or to become part of our team go to LibbiThomas.org

WRITTEN BY PATRICIA THOMAS HARPER PHOTOGRAPH BY BRITTANY STRICKLAND

Libbi’s Legacy of Life & Love

WRITTEN BY LIBBI’S NIECE, SARAH THOMAS COBB

“Inclusion is not bringing people into what already exists, it is making a new space, a better space for everyone.” -GEORGE DEI

you’ve ever met or known someone with Down Syndrome, then you “know.” You know the laugh, the smile, silliness, love, and constant happiness. You know the hugs, the kisses, the cuddles, and the tickles. These are people who contribute a certain brand of goodness, all their own. Our family was blessed with one of the greatest, Libbi Thomas. She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. Most importantly, she was a person that was never defined by her exceptionality. Instead, she was sent out into the world to spread the message of inclusion and acceptance. To Libbi, everyone around her were the “different” ones. It was simply her role to help them become more like her; a role that this world continues to need. Libbi was born on November 4, 1960. In the 60’s, a child born with Down Syndrome was considered a tragedy. It was unheard of to bring a child into the home with this exceptionality and was suggested that all be institutionalized. Parents were presented a list of things their child would never do: walk, talk, learn, be independent. It is unfortunate that this mentality of the 60’s is still somewhat alive and well today. Many new mothers, fathers and families are still presented with dangerously low expectations and capabilities of children

with Down Syndrome. Thankfully, Libbi defied these odds. She was never characterized by her limitations and made a lasting impact on people through her presence, actions, and words. Her life is an endless story of all that is possible. Libbi had many roles throughout her life, the most important being the daughter to Sam and Nita Thomas and sister to Patti, Sammy, and Joey. The understanding in the Thomas household was this: Libbi is a part of everything. This mentality made it possible to have a special bond with her sister and brothers; each sibling had their own unique relationship with Libbi. Her family’s support gifted her with experiences unheard of for people with Down Syndrome and helped to spread the message of acceptance and inclusion. As a child, she attended school, played with friends, went on family vacations and loved playing tricks on her siblings. Libbi loved nothing more than to sneak up on people and give them a good, old-fashioned scare. As an adult, Libbi loved going to parties, Mardi Gras balls, dabbling in politics, listening to country music and seizing any opportunity to have a dance. The list of all her lifelong accomplishments could go on forever. Her laugh was infectious and her zest for life was remarkable. This was not a person that should've been

institutionalized. Instead, she is being memorialized as a beacon of hope to those with Down Syndrome and all the wonderful possibilities that come with that title. Most people with Down syndrome display a general temperament of happiness and joy. I suspect that their elation, like Libbi’s, doesn't come from a lack of understanding in regards to pain or nonacceptance. Libbi always seemed content in the midst of any difficult situation. She experienced loss and hard times, but always found a way to find the beauty in her times of challenge. I believe this is a result of support shown by all that knew her; support being that of inclusion and unconditional love. I also believe this to be one of the many gifts people with Down Syndrome possess. They see the joy in situations of all kinds and create opportunities for all around to know that same joy. This was Libbi, inside and out. Our family is thankful for all the experiences shared with Libbi. Her impact was tremendous and her boundless love was contagious. Although we grieve her loss, we savor all the ways she helped spread the message of acceptance and inclusion. It is our hope that her legacy will ignite this same passion in all people and be a continuous lesson to love unconditionally. 11

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IN WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE JORDAN

iscuit’s preferred spot to sleep each night is at the foot of the bed, nestled cozily under the covers next to the feet of her owner, Misty Alexander. Considering her plush nightly accommodations, it is difficult to imagine that four years ago Biscuit was a puppy needing a forever home. Born amongst a litter of Dachshund mix puppies, Biscuit was being cared for by LA (Louisiana) Baby Mommas, a non-profit organization that specializes in rescuing puppies that require around the clock monitoring and bottle feeding. Having lost her dog of 15 years a few short months prior, perhaps Misty’s heart needed rescuing, too. An application was submitted, and the Alexanders soon received a call that Biscuit was ready to be adopted. She was brought home and given to Misty on Mother’s Day four years ago, and except for her two sons, Misty says that Biscuit has been the best Mother’s Day gift she’s ever received. “She’s the sweetest little dog ever,” Misty said. “She immediately loved us, and we loved her.” In the years since her adoption, Biscuit has fit right in with the Alexander family. A household with two young boys, Nash (9) and Rex (7), Misty says it’s hard to know who the real animals are in the house sometimes. And while she may not be a show dog, Biscuit is shown the same love and attention as any dog of high pedigree. In fact, the youngest of the Alexander boys cannot remember a time that Biscuit wasn’t a part of their home and family.

his was the vision Andrea Everson had twelve years ago when she held the first Best in Sheaux fundraising event for Robinson’s Rescue Low Cost Spay/Neuter – that every dog or cat would have the opportunity to live the life of a show dog. Best in Sheaux started as a watch party for a group of donors with love for Robinson’s Rescue and the Westminster Dog Show, and since its inception, it has grown into one of Shreveport’s most anticipated events. Robinson’s Rescue rolls out their version of the red carpet

– a dog-friendly green turf – to recreate its own form of the Westminster Dog Show and highlight all types of dogs in our local community. All dogs, including “pure breeds” and beloved mutts, are welcome to walk the runway and strut their stuff in support of Robinson’s Rescue and its mission to prevent pet overpopulation through high-quality, affordable spay and neuter surgeries to our community. “Our end goals is for Northwest Louisiana to be a no-kill community, and every dog and cat has a loving home. 29

“

We want to celebrate the work we do and make sure that every animal has this love in their life.

Through spay and neuter services, we can create a better life through prevention,” said Everson, CEO and Medical Director at Robinson’s Rescue. “The Westminster dogs are beautiful and have pedigree, but that is the same love that anyone has for their pet. We want to celebrate the work we do and make sure that every animal has this love in their life.” This year’s Best in Sheaux begins May 26 with the opening of the online silent auction and voting. This year’s silent auction boasts everything from massages and skin care, to clothing, earrings and jewelry. Raffle items, including a $500 gift card to Clark’s Jewelers and a case of Tito’s Vodka, are also up for grabs. Alexus Kelley, Development Coordinator at Robinson’s Rescue, says the generosity of donors and sponsors make this event possible and unlike no other. “We’ve got it all! There are events, excursions, behind-the-scenes tours. 30

We have been so blessed with how many people have donated to us this year; it is truly phenomenal,” Kelley said. The runway show will air June 5 on TV, which also features a Shelter Dog Showcase highlighting several pets available for adoption locally. This year’s Best in Sheaux will conclude on June 12 with the VIP Awards Show at The Lot in downtown Shreveport. Voting for the Best in Sheaux will close at 7 p.m. June 12 and the winner will be announced at the VIP Awards Show that evening. As for Biscuit, she is looking for her moment in the spotlight as she takes her turn on the green carpet

to compete in this year’s Best in Sheaux. Walking the green runway is a tradition for the Alexander family. Last year Misty’s mom, Dr. Josephine Futrell’s pet Beaux, was given top honors and named Best in Sheaux. “It’s a passing of the torch,” Misty said. “We’ve always supported Robinson’s Rescue. It is such an amazing organization for those who hold animals near and dear to their hearts.”

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i n t e r i o r

pl ants Let Akins Nursery teach you how to become a successful Interior Plant Parent WRITTEN BY JENNIFER MCGIMSEY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

BRITTANY STRICKLAND 34

Interior plants can really liven up a room. Plants help complete your décor, reduce stress, remove toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde from the air, and improve oxygen levels. With so many benefits, you can see why interior plants have regained popularity.

So what’s holding you back? Usually fear of killing a plant – after all, it is a living thing. Akin’s wants to offer a few tips to help even new plant parents be successful.

Know your light.

Most plants thrive in indirect, bright light. Think… near a window, but not in the direct sun. However, several plants can tolerate a variety of light environments. Understanding the light in a room can help you make the right choice in a plant. Also keep in mind that LED lights in an office serve as artificial lighting, so plants can thrive there too.

Understand how much water your plant needs.

The easiest way to kill a plant is overwatering. When plant roots sit in water, they suffocate. This is known as root rot. Roots need access to water – through the soil – but they can’t sit in water. In a perfect world, plant parents would learn to “read the signs” of their

plant and know when and how much to water. For beginners or busy plant parents – we advise… “just pick a water day.” Maybe that day is Sunday. On Sundays water all your plants. Take them out of their decorative container to the sink, bathtub or outside, water thoroughly, let the plant drain completely and then return to its home. Some plants need more water than others. Sansevierias, succulents, zz plants, and cactus will only need

water about once a month. Blooming plants like florist hydrangeas, florist azaleas, and rieger begonias shouldn’t dry out as the blooms may fall off if left in soil that completely dries out. Many plants need water about once a week. When you purchase a plant, make sure you ask how much water your new plant will need to thrive, pay attention in the early months to how dry the soil is before you water, and adjust accordingly. 35

Address signs of stress early.

Yellowing leaves, brown leaves, and evidence of insects all indicate plant stress. Many signs of stress can easily be remedied if you act soon enough. The first step is to rule out overwatering. Make sure the plant isn’t sitting in water. Next check your lighting. If your plant isn’t getting enough light its leaves may turn brown and begin falling off or start to yellow. To quickly stabilize a plant, move it outdoors to a covered patio where it can get bright, indirect light. For pests such as gnats, aphids, or spider mites… check to be sure your soil isn’t soggy and try neem oil first. There are stronger chemicals available if neem isn’t effective.

Don’t forget to fertilize.

Most interior plants should be fertilized during the growing season (March to September). Pick a fertilizer formulated for interior plants and use according to the label.

No need to rush to repot.

Most interior plants enjoy being a bit root bound and will thrive in their growers’ pot. If you want to encourage substantial growth, you will eventually want to increase the pot size. You will know it is time to repot when the roots have completely outgrown the pot and there is little room left for soil.

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SH RE V E P ORT

FARMERS’ MARKET O P E N S

JUNE 5 - AUGUST 28

FRUITS

VEGETABLES

HONEY

MEAT

BAKED GOODS

PREPARED FOODS

For the 35th consecutive year, the Shreveport Farmers’ Market will serve our community by providing bountiful weekly markets! The Shreveport Farmers’ Market is a community service project of Red River Revel. For more information, please visit www.redriverrevel.com/shreveport-farmers-market

• Open every Saturday from June 5 through August 28 (except June 19) • 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m • Festival Plaza (located at 101 Crockett Street in downtown Shreveport) • Outdoor, open air market with over 75 vendors • SNAP benefits accepted by most vendors

Farmers’ Market Finds HOSTESS with the MOSTESS:

JESSICA COMEGYS

ello, sweet summertime. We have been waiting for you. One of the favorite things about summer is Saturday strolls thru our

local farmers’ markets. Nothing is better than fresh produce straight from local growers. Mother Nature didn’t provide you with water-filled vegetables and fruits in summer by chance. It’s important to eat your water as well as drinking it. The fiber in the plants helps you absorb it slower for better hydration. For your upcoming summer gathering by the pool or backyard BBQ, try some delicious cold recipes that are designed to nourish and hydrate you too! 38

ocal farmers are happy to help

you with any question you may have. If the farmers’ market

seems overwhelming, here are a few

tips to have you shopping all the locally grown goodies like a pro.

Know your seasons - If you start with a basic knowledge of seasonal produce, you’ll know what kind of fruits and vegetables to expect when you arrive at the market. Keep in mind that seasonality and items on offer will differ depending on what growing region you live in.

Meal plan ahead of time - Since you know what you’re likely to find at the market, you can do a bit of meal planning and shop accordingly, much as you would at the grocery store. Make a list and note the amounts you’ll need of each item. Because the farmers’ market is subject to seasonality, and vendors may run out of items or simply not have them that week, maintain some flexibility. No asparagus this week? Try substituting broccolini.

Bring small change - It’s extremely rare for farmers’ market vendors to take card purchases, so you’ll need to bring cash. Although vendors will make change, purchases will go quicker if you have exact (or close to exact) change. Bringing a stack of ones and fives will make things easier for you and the vendors. WRITTEN BY JESSICA COMEGYS PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRITTANY STRICKLAND 39

Bring your own bags Some farmers’ market vendors offer bags, but they tend to be thin and flimsy plastic ones that groan under the pressure of any substantial produce purchase. Make sure everything gets home from the market without crashing onto the sidewalk or spilling onto the floor of your car by bringing your own sturdy canvas or nylon bags. A backpack can make the hauling easier, especially for weighty or bulky items.

Early bird gets the worm - Markets tend to be less crowded right when they open or just before they close. There are exceptions to this rule, so try going to your market at different times to figure out the best time for you. For the best selection, go to the market early. The best goods tend to go first, and popularbut-limited items may even sell out before the day is done.

Talk to the farmers - If you find a fruit or vegetable that’s new to you at the farmers market, don’t be afraid to ask the farmer about it. Most vendors will be happy to tell you all about their products, including how they are grown, their origins, what they taste like, and how to prepare them. Because farmers are extremely familiar with their crops, they often know the best way to fix them for dinner. Plus, they might give you a sample to taste.

Summery Watermelon Gazpacho A cold soup with watermelon, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, cucumbers.

1 red onion - ½ cup roughly chopped, ½ cup finely chopped 1-2 red bell peppers - 1 cup roughly chopped, ¾ cup finely chopped 1-2 peeled and seeded cucumbers - 1 cup roughly chopped, 1 cup finely chopped 1 jalapeño pepper - 1 Tbsp roughly chopped, 1 Tbsp finely chopped (more or less to taste) 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes 6 to 7 cups of chopped seedless watermelon (or watermelon with seeds removed) ¼ cup chopped cilantro ¼ to ½ cup of red wine vinegar (more or less to taste, depending on the sweetness of the watermelon and tomatoes) 1 Tbsp kosher salt 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil GARNISH: Sour cream (omit for vegan or paleo option) Diced avocado Cilantro • Purée vegetables and watermelon: • Put the roughly chopped onion, bell pepper, cucumber, jalapeño and cilantro into a powerful blender. (Reserve the finely chopped vegetables for adding later.) • Add the tomatoes and pulse until puréed. • Add the watermelon and pulse again until

smooth. • If your blender isn’t big enough or if you prefer to use a food processor, you may need to work in batches. (An immersion blender will likely not work for this, not enough liquid.) Pour into a large bowl. • Balance the sweetness with vinegar, add salt and olive oil. • Taste the gazpacho and add red wine vinegar to balance the sweetness of the watermelon and tomatoes. • Depending on how sweet your watermelon is, and how acidic or sweet your tomatoes are, you may need to add less or more red wine vinegar. So, start with ¼ cup of vinegar, and keep adding a tablespoon at a time until you’ve reached a balance you like. • Whisk in the salt and olive oil. • Stir in finely chopped vegetables, then chill: • Stir in the finely chopped onions, bell pepper, cucumber, and jalapeño. Chill for at least an hour for the flavors so blend. (It’s even better chilled overnight.) Add more salt to taste if it needs it. GARNISH: To serve, garnish with sour cream, diced avocado and chopped fresh cilantro. Also good with a side of toasted rustic bread.

Quick Pickled Vegetables A simple delicious recipe that can be used with most any veggie! Beets, turnips, radishes, carrots, kohlrabi, onions, cauliflower, peppers, asparagus or green beans! For long-term canning, see recipe notes!

Enough fresh raw veggies to fill 2 quart-size Mason jars (about 5-6 cups) - beets, carrots, radishes, turnips, cucumbers, okra, green beans, asparagus, red onion, zucchini or summer squash, cauliflower florets, bell peppers, garlic cloves, fennel bulbs, cabbage, rainbow chard stems 1 tablespoon coriander seeds 2 teaspoons fennel seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 6–10 cloves garlic- sliced thickly ½ an onion sliced (optional) few sprigs fresh dill (optional) or other herbs Other optional additions - whole cloves, dill seeds, whole allspice, fresh ginger slices, fresh chilies or chili flakes, celery seeds, peppercorns, cumin seeds, star anise, other fresh herbs PICKLING LIQUID: 2 Cups vinegar - white, red wine, rice wine, apple cider (any of these, or a combination) 2 Cups water 2 Tablespoons kosher salt 4–6 Tablespoons sugar (sugar is added for flavor, so feel free to cut back you like) • Prep your veggies. Wash them well and slice, quarter, or cut into spears, or leave whole (like with green beans, asparagus, okra, etc.) • Bring the water, vinegar, salt and sugar to a boil in a small pot, and in the mean time pack the jars with the prepped veggies. • In two quart-size Mason jars, divide the garlic and whole spices. • Begin adding the veggies and if you are including the onion ( which I recommend), layer a few slices in with the veggies along with any fresh herbs you would like to include ( you can also layer the garlic this way too, or put it in first, your choice) leaving about an inch at the top of the jar. • Using a funnel, carefully pour the hot

liquid into the jars, making sure to submerge all the veggies, pressing down on them with the end of a wooden spoon. You may be able to add more veggies at this point, just make sure the liquid completely covers the veggies leaving at least a half inch of room between the liquid and lid. • Cover and let sit on the counter to cool, and after an hour or two, place in the fridge. These will taste good after 6-8 hours, but much better after a couple days. NOTES • These keep up to 2-3 weeks in the fridge. • If pickling firmer veggies like carrots or beets, feel free to simmer the veggies in the pickling liquid (in a pot) for a few minutes to soften them slightly. Don’t over cook them! • If you are planning to can your pickles for long-term storage, bring a large pot of water to a boil and sterilize 2 wide-mouth pint jars and their metal lids. • Place the pickling liquid in saucepan over high heat and bring to a rolling boil. Pour the brine over the veggies filling each jar to within ½-inch of the top. Remove any air bubbles. Gently tap the jars against the counter a few times to remove all the air bubbles. Top off with more pickling liquid if necessary. Tighten the lids. Place the lids over the jars and screw on the rings until tight. For longer storage, place the filled jars in a boiling pot of water to can them. When the water comes back to a boil, boil the filled jars for 5 minutes then remove the jars immediately. Make sure the lids pop down.

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SUMMER BREEZE… DR. KAREN’S GUIDE TO SUNSCREEN WRITTEN BY DR. KAREN PENDLETON

f you’ve ever experienced a sunburn, then you know all too well about the negative effects the sun can have on your health. Heat rash, premature aging, and skin cancer are other painful outcomes from being outdoors without adequate protection. But spending time in the sun—wisely— can prove valuable to our health. Sunlight

1 SPF stands for sun protection factor and is helpful when comparing the strength of two different sunscreens. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. 2 UVA: Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which consists of different types of rays. UVA rays have the longest wavelength and can lead to damage deep in the skin, cause skin to age prematurely, and are associated with some skin cancers. 3 About 95% of the rays that reach the ground are UVA rays. 4 UVB rays have shorter wavelengths and damage the outermost layers of the skin. Overexposure to UVB rays leads to sunburn and damage to your DNA. They are

increases serotonin in the brain, which is associated with improved mood and energy levels. It also creates vitamin D, which can aid in heart health, increase weight loss, and boost immunity. This article will answer some of the questions I’m often asked about enjoying summer safely, but first let’s set the stage with a few definitions:

also thought to cause the most skin cancers. 5 About 5% of the UV rays that reach the ground are UVB rays. 6 UVC rays have the shortest wavelengths and can cause the most serious damage—but fortunately, the ozone layer (what’s left of it) filters these out. These rays never reach the ground. 7 Welding torches, mercury lamps, and special bacteriakilling light bulbs are examples of man-made sources of UVC. 8 As a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist, know that chronic exposure to acute intense UVC rays can lead to cataract formation and retinal damage.

Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, here are the questions my patients ask most often about sunscreen.

With hundreds of sunscreens available, how do I choose? There are only two types of sunscreen: mineral and chemical. The main difference is found in their list of ingredients. Mineral sunscreen contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide— ingredients that form a physical barrier on the skin and protect it by reflecting away the sun’s damaging UV rays. Chemical sunscreens contain non-natural ingredients. The most problematic are octinoxate, oxybenzone and octocrylene. Before these chemicals can offer any UV protection, your skin must absorb them. I don’t recommend chemical sunscreens.

What are the dangers of using chemical sunscreen? A recent study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association showed that six active ingredients in chemical sunscreen were absorbed into the body. More alarmingly, some of the ingredients were beyond the FDA’s threshold of concern for three weeks after the test subjects stopped applying the sunscreen. After a single application of sunscreen containing oxybenzone, blood concentrations of the chemical rose 180 times beyond the FDA’s level of concern. Oxybenzone may affect breast development, infant birth weight, and sperm function. In 2021, Hawaii banned the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate because those ingredients have been shown to contribute to the killing of coral reefs in the ocean. In addition, the National Toxicology Program recently released findings linking oxybenzone exposure to a higher risk of thyroid tumors in female rats. Stay away from chemical sunscreens.

Is sunscreen safe for breastfeeding moms?

babies

and

Breastfeeding moms have an additional reason to avoid chemical sunscreens: they can leech into breastmilk. A study by Dr. Margret Schlumpf of the University of Zurich found octinoxate in 64.7 percent of the sampled women’s breast milk, along with significant amounts of oxybenzone, octocrylene, and padimate O. Mineral sunscreen is a safer choice for moms (whether breastfeeding or not) and approved for use on babies older than six months. One additional caution: Pay close attention to expiration dates on sunscreen, or your precious little one could suffer a serious sunburn.

Are aerosol (spray-on) sunscreens a good choice? No. I don’t recommend aerosol sunscreen for 4 reasons: ✷ The spray can be inhaled accidentally and irritate your lungs. ✷ It’s difficult to tell if you missed an area, which could result in a painful sunburn. ✷ They’re considered less effective than gels or lotions because applying a spray evenly is a challenge. ✷ The cans are flammable.

Is the sunscreen in my makeup enough to protect my face? No. Even if your favorite foundation contains SPF 50 sunscreen, it’s probably not enough. In an article featured on the Cleveland Clinic website (health.clevelandclinic.org), Dr. Amy Kassouf explains most SPF ratings are overestimates. When testing sunscreen, skin care companies apply an extra thick layer. But in the real world, we would never use that much. “We put on just as much as we feel we can spread easily, then we’re off to the races. So we don’t usually get the full protection listed on the label,” Dr. Kassouf says. My recommendation: Apply a layer of sunscreen beneath your makeup and choose a foundation that also contains a sunscreen. You’ll be doubly protected.

Which sunscreens are a good choice for black skin? Although dark skin does offer more natural protection from the sun’s harmful rays than light skin, it’s a myth that people of color won’t burn or suffer skin damage. And while it might be helpful for me to recommend specific 45

sunscreen brands, it’s difficult because each person’s skin type (oily, dry or combination) influences which product will work best. A quick search on YouTube for mineral sunscreen for dark skin will provide dozens of reviews that will help you spend your money wisely. Black Girl Sunscreen is a brand that might seem like an obvious choice, but I don’t recommend it. While it doesn’t contain the worst chemical filter—oxybenzone—it does contain others. There are better options available.

How do I know if I have sun damage? Dark spots, wrinkles, and blotches are the obvious signs of the sun’s damage to your skin. But if you want a more in-depth look, UV imaging can provide the details. Here are my images from a scan earlier this year:

Do I really need to wear sunscreen every day? Yes! Apply sunscreen every day to protect against premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer. According to the National Institutes of Health, almost 900,000 Americans require a procedure known as Mohs surgery to remove skin cancers every year. Small spots can run deep, and the surgery sometimes results in a need for reconstructive surgery. Don’t risk your beautiful face!

Does wearing sunscreen interfere with vitamin D production? Clinical studies have never shown that using sunscreen leads to low levels of vitamin D. One of the reasons for this is that no matter how much sunscreen you use, some of the sun’s UV rays still reach your skin. And very few people use sunscreen perfectly. With that said, I do recommend that my patients spend time outside each morning upon rising. Just 15 minutes of early morning sunlight will lead to better sleep cycles as well as stimulate production of vitamin D.

I hate wearing sunscreen. Can’t I just take a pill instead? Companies that sell “sunscreen pills” claim they help block the sun’s UV rays just as well as regular sunscreen. Unfortunately, sun protection doesn’t work that way (from the inside out). Unlike drugs, the supplements industry is largely unregulated and FDA approval is not required prior to bringing a product to market. When those products represent a danger to public health, however, the FDA can and will step in and issue a warning statement. In 2018, the FDA issued a statement on sunscreen pills: “These companies…are putting people’s health at risk by giving consumers a false of security that a dietary supplement could prevent sunburn, reduce early skin aging caused by the sun, or protect from the risks of skin cancer.” Don’t be lured in by bogus claims.

The process takes just a few minutes and is quite comfortable. Armed with the results, your skin care expert can recommend the best treatments to improve the appearance of your skin. Search online for Visia skin analysis to find a provider near you. In summary, here are my “rules” for safely enjoying the sun this summer: ✷ Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. ✷ Wear sunscreen every day and reapply as directed. ✷ Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. ✷ Use mineral sunscreens only.

And if you really want to feel good about your skin, honor yourself by seeing a dermatologist for a full body check. In good health,

Dr. Karen Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only. It is not intended or implied to be a substitute for the diagnosis, treatment or advice of a qualified, licensed medical professional. You are encouraged to confirm any information obtained from or through this article with other sources and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician.

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Date

Night

My husband and I are dating each other again. COVID tried to kill our fun, but we aren’t having it. I’ve known Pat for 26 years, but over time he has affectionately become known to me as “Clark,” as life with him is a wildly-wacky, hysterical adventure. Early in our marriage we spent time partying with friends and taking impromptu trips. We had discretionary income for frivolous purchases. Our biggest concerns were which paint colors to select for the great room and whether or not having our own children would become reality,

hese days, we’re calculating

Then there was the gift trip to

how to cash flow three sets

Las Vegas that we received from Pat’s

of braces, monthly tutoring

dad. We quickly learned that this free

and

fundraising

trip was, in fact, not free. Halfway

obligations. Professionally, I carry

through the timeshare presentation,

the weight of directing my clients’

Pat began shifting in his chair. I knew

financial well-being. Pat carries the

the rep was in for trouble when he

stress of sustaining lives. Life can be

made his third sales pitch pivot after

heavy at times. We answer the need

Pat’s second verbal “no thanks.”

for reprieve by getting out of town —

Pushing away from the table and

together.

rising from his chair, Pat gave

costs,

football

Through experience, we’ve learned

me the “grab your purse” look,

to leave the travel arrangements

thanked the rep for his time, and

to Pat.

While cash flow analysis

and investment strategy calculate quickly and accurately in my brain, navigating the internet for travel arrangements does not. Last Christmas Pat received tickets to a concert at which his

WRITTEN BY PAYTON DENNEY

favorite band was not the headliner. For a bonus he got to spend hours explaining to Expedia that his wife is ticket ordering illiterate. Merry Christmas babe. I tried.

Shading my eyes, I

headed for the door. The rep followed to which Pat

could make out a figure

turned on his heels, faced the rep nose to nose, and

walking toward us in the

calmly said, “Sir, I’m about to get loud in here.” At that

distance. As he got closer,

point we were free to go.

it appeared that he was

Pat Denney-planned trips are much different. On

holding something.

one such Pat Denney trip to Cancun, I lay swinging

true Clark fashion it was

in a hammock soaking in the October ocean breeze.

Pat, holding a platter piled

I took a break from reading to sip my umbrella-

high with barbequed meat.

adorned coconut beverage when I realized that Pat had been gone for a while. He had gone snorkeling

After drifting in the surf,

with a group of friends. The rest of the group had

he looked up and saw a

returned. Pat was missing.

beachfront buffet.

The

others in the group assumed

“These experiences are the fuel our marriage needs to make it through the

mundane and trying times of the months and years that follow.”

the spread was for a private party. Pat considered it a perk of our “all inclusive” travel package. On another such Clark adventure, Pat joined me

on a business trip to Las Vegas. While I was giving my presentation to my colleagues, Pat ventured out in search of a foot massage. Using his Around Me app, he located one area of town that had multiple hits under the search terms “massage.” His Clark brain deduced, “multiple vendors, more competition, negotiated pricing. Bingo.” My daily work schedule ended, so I went back to the hotel room to check on my spouse. Instead of fiddling with my key, I knocked. The door creaked open. As I made my way into the room, I noticed that Pat was limping. I inquired. Pat relived the experience, “When I entered the massage parlor for my appointment, the receptionist informed me that I could upgrade my treatment to a 1.5-hour, full-body massage for $45. Of course, I agreed! It was such a great deal.” He continued, “I thought it was odd that the massage table was only a foot off the ground, but I hopped on anyway. Before I knew it, there was a 115-pound Asian dude walking on my back.” Pat’s body was bruised from head to toe for the remainder of our trip. These trips — these “date nights” are vital to my mental health. The wine, the giggles, the coffee on the nightstand each morning fill my empty spaces. These experiences are the fuel our marriage needs to make it through the mundane and trying times of the months and years that follow. Our kids are

beginning to understand that love must be nurtured if we expect to sustain it. In the throes of raising children, it’s easier to get away with friends than it is to escape as a couple. I would argue that dads are better than moms at allowing themselves that time away. Lately, we have fallen into that trap. Pat and I have been escaping a few times a week to catch up over dinner, but our out-of-town trips have been with friends and kiddos. Following Pat’s return from a multi-day fishing trip, he used his man brain to ask if it would be ok if he left early the next morning to fish. That would put me in charge of the morning routine again. I wasn’t thrilled at the idea. I was tired and over-worked. In the most mature, non-emotionally hijacked voice I could offer, I responded “sure.” I then slammed the backdoor so hard that the

pictures on the wall rattled. The next day Pat joined me for the morning kid routine. He also cancelled his upcoming fishing trip and booked two plane tickets to Boston. As I type, we are in flight. That’s what almost 17 years of marriage, shared fun, and vulnerability will get you – an emergency notice to your spouse that a meltdown is looming. He gets me. He loves me. He knows what my full-blown come-aparts look like, and he has no interest in ever going through another one again. See above escape to Boston. We double checked Rambo’s backpack for weapons and made it safely through security. Gigi is in charge of the Little Denneys. We’re hopeful that my sister will get everyone to church. We won’t be sharing any additional details about our trip because that belongs to

us. It’s also because I accidentally texted my boss a picture of wine glass boobies during our wine tasting session on our Waco trip. Here’s to date night. Wheels up!

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SummerSlide...

is everything destined to go down the Brain Drain this summer?

love sliding down slides with the curves and free fall experience of freedom, but I so do not want that ground to catch up to me as I have had far too many falls lately! I especially love the water slides in our Louisiana weather as they really combine the best of both worlds. What I do not love is the Summer Slide when it comes to education/ academics and total loss of what has been learned. With Covid and all the negatives that were caused by shutdowns, the reality of slides in skills is all too evident. Summer slide or the summer slowdown or the summer brain drain as it is called is really a way to collective state the loss of overall content during a closure or time that the brain is not being stimulated at the same level as it is during

a typical school year. The measure of the Covid shutdown was an astounding measure of over a year in reading skills and 8 months of math skills as estimated by an exponential case study based on summer slide measures in past and measured by student performance in classroom. The truth of the matter is that once standardized testing is completed, we will realize that the shutdowns cost our students much more in academic growth. Knowing there is a problem is only part of the issue, getting to the answer or a possible solution requires all of us. BY DONESA WALKER, M.ED.,

BOARD CERTIFIED COGNITIVE SPECIALIST, OWNER LEARNINGRX SHREVEPORT

tips

Here are a few

1. While sliding in the park or playing

in the water, engage in fun math activities such as counting backwards by twos or threes… avid swimmers who are older and more proficient can perhaps do dives to the bottom of the pool and come back up remembering the number…100 dive or slide, 97 dive or slide, 94 dive or slide …or even increase the spread to multiples of 6 or 7…100 dive, 93 dive, 86 dive…

2. Cookouts are a blast in the summer

and even more fun is to cook with you kids. Allow them to use fractions to reduce or increase the recipes for a crowd. By allowing them to work with fractions from a young age to teen years, they not only gain those necessary cooking skills but the learn the fractions necessary for math and they learn that math is important to their future.

Read for at least 20 minutes a day and explore different places that house books from the library to the museum to the bookstore. Explore different types of reading from recipes to magazines to picture books and be sure to include audio books as this is good for listening skills and the underlying skills needed for reading as well. Choose to partner with local resources that have reading contests such as the community #chillandread contest offered by LearningRx along with community partners this summer… encourages reading in different genres

for combatting the Summer Brain Drain:

and locations while getting a treat.

Learn something such as a new hobby like fishing or snorkeling. Trying new things opens experiences for the brain and encourages challenges as well as an openness to learning for adventure. Try a new language like Japanese to celebrate the Olympics being in Japan this summer.

5. Review skills from the year in a fun

and new manner such as some of the kinesthetic activities offered at www. blog.allaboutlearningpress.com. Instead of swatting flies or perhaps while swatting flies, you can also swat phonograms.

Sidewalk chalk play is a staple in summer. Go to the 101 Genius Sidewalk chalk ideas to crush Boredom at www. whatmomslove.com. Here you can learn ideas from letter hide and seek to water word painting that will take the summer learning to a whole new high.

7. Enjoy some geography as you travel

or if you are doing a staycation, try out some geography fun from The Big Fat List of Summer Learning Ideas at www. teachbesideme.com. Geocaching is a great way to enjoy some outdoors and make learning a blast. It teaches map skills and lets you enjoy some fun with the littles.

8. If you absolutely need a guide to drive

your summer learning, try out the Beat the Summer Slide Calendar of Activities

Enough has been said in a negative fashion about the long-term results of Covid, closures and, and, and…the question is what are we going to do about it as a community?

For the team at LearningRx, we have decided to be a part of the solution by offering a great opportunity to encourage reading for all ages. We have partnered with several amazing local businesses to offer a summer reading contest #chillandread! Each person who chills out with a good book can benefit with a chilly treat such as a fun cool slurpy or ice cream cone! The fun reading chart is set up as a Bingo style, win-a-treat bookshelf where each time you complete 5 tasks in any order arrangement, you can come by LearningRx to claim your coupon for your treat! You can even combine the fun activities

at www.teacherspayteachers.com which is full of printables and tons of fun.

9. Summer camps abound in great resources from the social interaction of stay over camps to the day camps offered by our local resources like SciPort and LSUS/LearningRx braincamps as well as individualized Crainium Camps for boosting those skills with a private brain trainer.

10. If you cannot take time away from the devices, which is the best advice I can give you to do…well, there are sites that are amazing too: • • • • • • • • •

www.switcheroozoo.com www.funbrain.com www.kids.nationalgeographic.com www.reading.ecb.org www.starfall.com www.seusville.com www.storylineonline.net www.abcya.com www.highlightskids.com

and many more… www.learningworksforkids.com even has a list of video games that are good for kids! The best advice is to take some time to be purposeful about learning and have a blast sliding into a great fall like into home base instead of losing what you’ve learned by doing nothing all summer.

theReading Dilemma

into one awesome fun-filled day such as reading a book about history aloud to a friend while on a picnic to claim three of the five spots…add a bonus spot and score!!! The required reading for school has never been so fun and this isn’t limited to ages…you can read aloud to a toddler to allow them a chance to win and earn your own treat while doing so…the point is to encourage reading which is so good for the brain and in turn support our community through the amazing resources we have in our area. While it is true that masks have caused students to struggle more with auditory processing which is the underlying skill needed for reading, it is also true that reading aloud to your family is good for your brain and theirs. Time to strike out and get a good book to chill with in our beautiful summer weather… #chillandread 55

Chill Out with a

Good Book

to Win Cool Treats All Summer Long!

Call Today for program participation details! 8856 Youree Dr., Ste D, Shreveport, LA 71115 | 318.797.8523 | LearningRx.com/Shreveport

LearningRx is excited to announce our “Chill Out with a Good Book” summer reading challenge. Kick back and read your way to some cool summer treats from our program sponsors.

Read a book about an animal

NexGen Nutrition

Ask a relative or friend what their favorite books are & read one

Read a historical fiction book

Read a book on vacation or about a vacation

Read a book about America

Read a book in a series

Read a book to someone else

Read a book about someone you admire

(or with someone else)

(such as a musician, athlete, president, etc.)

Read a book about your favorite hobby

Read a poem & post a video to the LearningRx Facebook page

Read a book at the beach or about the ocean

Read a book with your family or about a family

Read a fantasy book

Read a book on a picnic

Read a different form of print

Read a comic book or graphic novel

(such as newspaper or magazine)

Listen to an audio book or have someone read to you

Read a book about another country

#chillandread

Read a book that makes you laugh

Read a book on a rainy day or read a book about weather

Stop by LearningRx for your chill and read reward chart or visit www.learningrx.com/shreveport/chillandread

Read a book in your pajamas

Family Fun

Summer #1

S q u ir t G u n Pa intin g

ummer has started, school is out, and entertaining our kids while they’re home 24/7 can be challenging for even the most studious parent. Make some new favorite memories this summer with any of these family-fun summer crafts! #1: If your kids aren’t fond of painting outside, change their tools to give them a fun new method of painting! With a couple of medium-sized white canvases for target practice, all you’ll need next is some tempura paint, diluted with a little water, and a couple of squirt guns to get the fun started.

Pro-tip:

We find that placing a few drops of tempura paint into clear squeeze bottles and diluting it with a little water can help dispense the paint into the smaller openings of the squirt guns.

DIY Crafts WRITTEN BY VICTORIA ARNOLD

T ie-D ye To we l

#2: Beach trip coming up? Let your kiddos use their own towels to both dry off and show off! For this craft, it’s best to use 100% white cotton towels, tie-dye paint of your choice (we find that Tulip One-Step Tie-Dye works well, and it is available at any Walmart location). Next, choose your rubber-band method (spiral, bull’s eye, heart shape, etc.). After tying up your towel and applying the dye, make sure to keep the towel secured in a garbage bag to lock in the moisture and store overnight.

Pro-tip:

If your kids want a little more personalization, you can also purchase spray-on tie-dyes and let your kids write their name in duct tape on the towel before spraying it with paint! 59

m iu r a r r e T d r a y k c a B

#3: If you’re looking for a more educational craft and need to put those leftover mason jars to good use, teach your kids about the ecosystem that’s right in their backyard with their own terrarium! Start with any large glass container with a lid, and fill the bottom about 2-3 inches with layers of rocks. After this, add about half an inch of horticultural charcoal to support filtration, place some moss on top, and then add a few small plants collected from the backyard. After spraying a few pumps of water with a spray bottle, place your terrarium in an area with bright yet indirect sunlight, and only open the lid to release excess moisture. Once complete, your tiny ecosystem is good to grow!

Pro-tip: If your jar is a little tight to squeeze your hand through, try using a larger, longer set of tweezers instead to help you easily arrange smaller objects in the terrarium!

s r e d e e F d ir B e d a M Kid

#4: Got an empty leftover toilet paper or paper towel roll? Don’t throw it out! Make a simple, disposable bird feeder so you and your kids can properly welcome all of your backyard bird friends. First, punch four holes on the bottom of each side of your cardboard roll. Collect two sturdy, thick sticks from the backyard to place perpendicularly into the holes, allowing the birds a place to stand while eating. Afterwards, simply puncture two holes at the top of the roll, grab some leftover string or yarn, and tie it through the holes to create a handle to hand the feeder in a nearby bush or tree. Next, slather the sides of the roll with smooth peanut butter, and simply sprinkle a handful of bird seed over the peanut butter, and voila!

With COVID still lingering, these fun activities can provide a safe and entertaining way to occupy your family members when you feel a little too cramped to stay indoors. So break out the art supplies, and have some creative fun in the sun!

Why choose a Dentist

Pediatric A

child’s first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable. Children are not born with a natural fear of the dentist, but they can fear the unknown. Our office makes a special effort to use pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe each treatment. We want you and your child to feel at ease from the moment your family arrives at our office. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends...

Children should visit the dentist by their first birthday. It is important that your child’s newly-erupted teeth (erupting at six and 12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning.

When New Teeth Arrive

Your child’s first primary or baby teeth will begin to erupt between the ages of six and 12 months, and will continue to erupt until about age three. During this time, your child’s gums may feel tender and sore. To help alleviate this discomfort, we recommend that you soothe the gums by rubbing a clean finger or a cool, wet cloth across them. You may also choose to make use of a teething ring. When your child has finished teething, you can expect a total of 20 primary teeth. Your child’s primary teeth are shed at various times throughout childhood. Permanent teeth begin erupting at age six, and continue until age 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth (32, including wisdom teeth).

Adopting Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits

As your child’s teeth erupt, be sure to examine them every two weeks, looking for lines and discoloration that may be caused by decay. Remember that sugary foods and liquids can attack a new tooth, so take care that your child brushes after feeding or eating. We 62

recommend brushing two times a day for optimal oral hygiene: after breakfast, after lunch, after dinner, and at bedtime. Brushing can be fun, and your child should brush as soon as the first tooth arrives. Fluoridated toothpaste is recommended for all children starting at tooth eruption, regardless of caries risk. A smear (the size of a grain of rice) of toothpaste should be used up to age three. After the third birthday, a pea-sized amount may be used. We recommend dispensing toothpaste for young children and supervising and assist with brushing. Flossing is also a part of good oral hygiene habits, and your doctor will discuss with you the right time to start flossing. If you notice signs of decay, contact your dentist immediately.

Preventing Tooth Decay with Regular Checkups

Tooth decay is caused by sugars left in your mouth that turn into an acid, which can break down your teeth. Children are at high risk for tooth decay for a simple reason: many children and adolescents do not practice regular, good oral hygiene habits. Proper brushing and flossing routines combined with regular dental visits help keep tooth decay away. Your child should visit the dentist every six months for regular dental cleanings and checkups. We recommend fluoride treatments twice a year along with cleanings to keep teeth their strongest. Tooth sealants are also recommended because they “seal” the deep grooves in your child’s teeth, preventing decay from forming in these hard-to-reach areas. Sealants last for several years, but will be monitored at your child's regular checkups.

SHREVEPORT

318 Carroll Street (318) 865-2250

BOSSIER CITY

4001 Viking Dr, Suite A (318) 747-7020

pediatricdentalpartners.com

ENROLLING NOW In-person classes with virtual options as necessary

Preschool 2 through 8th Grade Episcopal Private School

Call 318-221-7454 for more information or visit www.StMarksSchool.com 63

Written by Rosemary McMaster

INSTANT

GRATIFICATION L

ike just about everyone else in the world, 2020 was a trying year for me. It was a year of a lot of struggles and changes, but it was also a year that allowed me to sit back and reflect on life. As we move further into 2021 and life slowly returns to normal, I find myself trying to hold onto one of the few good things that 2020 did provide: an appreciation for life slowed down.

Pondering over this aspect allowed me to realize just how much we expect from instant gratification in our lives. What do I mean by instant gratification? These days, it’s all around us. Shopping is instant: You can find whatever you want on Amazon and have it delivered the next day. Communication is instant: You can contact anyone by text or call.

Entertainment is instant: We have access to social media, streaming platforms, and much more with the click of a button. Relationships are instant: You can look through hundreds of potential partners in a matter of minutes with dating apps. Even knowledge is instant in this day and age because you can whip out your phone and look up anything you need to know in seconds. As a young adult, the majority of my life has allowed me instant gratification. I grew up differently than the generations before me because anything I wanted or needed was always easy to access. While I’ll never be able to accurately say how different I would be if I was born 20 years earlier, I believe the age of the internet has both positively and negatively affected my life and the lives of many others. In a lot of ways, the evolution of technology is a great thing. I can keep up with my sister who lives across the world. I can learn new skills, healthy recipes, workout courses, you name it. I can connect with amazing people and discover new opportunities. However, I also have to understand that this fast-moving gratification has distorted my perception of the world and, at times, stripped me of my patience. Nowadays, it feels like a hassle if I am waiting on a shipment that takes more than two days. My attention span has lessened over time, and it can be challenging to focus on one task for an extended period. I find myself searching for constant entertainment yet rarely being satisfied with what I find. In moments like these, I even have to remind myself to slow down, live in the moment around me, and stop expecting the immediate in everything. Examining the effects of instant gratification has led me to understand how time and patience help us achieve our larger goals in life. The most meaningful goals that you will likely face in your lifetime, such as forming a

Pondering over this aspect allowed me to realize just how much we expect from instant gratification in our lives.

healthy relationship, finding fulfillment in your career, or earning an education, take time and effort. One of my most significant struggles throughout 2020 was finding a new career and carving out the professional path I wanted to pursue. It was months of endless job hunting, interviews, and rejections, and it was only made worse when the pandemic rolled around. In those moments, it felt like I was never going to find what I was looking for. As frustrated as I was during this difficult period, I had to remind myself that earning a new job took dedication and patience. In the end, that waiting made it all the more gratifying when I was finally offered a position. I think a lot of us forget the value of putting time behind our actions. Many of us may have even lost touch with the small, everyday activities that take patience, like reading a book, writing a letter, or creating something new. A quick fix isn’t always bad thing, and having the world at our fingertips has definitely brought a lot of convenience and opportunity to the lives of many. Nevertheless, I believe there is still value behind delayed gratification. Incorporating patience into our lifestyles allows us to understand the effects of this fast-paced world and, in the end, our achievements will feel all the more gratifying.

Shreveport Welcomes

New Cosmetic Dermatologist

DR. SKYLAR SOUYOUL DR. SKYLAR SOUYOUL M.D. is the first Board Certified Dermatologist Shreveport has welcomed since 2015. Dr. Souyoul is joining double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Lindsey Pennington M.D. Drs. Souyoul and Pennington are combining their knowledge and expertise to combat and reverse the signs of aging from head to toe. They offer the latest in skin rejuvenation including surgical enhancement as well as non-invasive strategies such as injectables, lasers and chemical peels. If you are new to cosmetic treatments and are nervous, don’t be! Dr. Souyoul maintains, “If cosmetic treatments look unnatural, then they are going to the wrong place. The goal of cosmetic treatments Dr. Skylar Souyoul M.D.

should be to preserve and restore your beauty.” While Dr. Souyoul is new to Shreveport, she is anything but new to the field of dermatology. Her resume includes participation in numerous clinical trials including the trials for the FDA approval of the latest neuromodulators, Jeuveau and DAXI, and the first and only injection for cellulite, Qwo. She is an expert in Botox, Kybella, Dysport, Sculptra, Radiesse, and the Juvederm and Restylane family of fillers. She is also proficient with a number of chemical peels and lasers. While her resume is impressive, her philosophy is simple, “I want my patient to look and feel like her best version”. Dr. Souyoul practices aesthetic, medical and surgical dermatology at Lindsey Pennington MD Facials Plastics on Line Avenue in Shreveport. Walking into the office is more like entering a spa than a doctor’s office. “Our office operates on a small-scale to ensure we get to know each patient in order to understand their goals and best address their concerns. This allows us to develop customized treatment plans, and discuss skincare and lifestyle to ensure optimal long-term results.” says Dr. Souyoul. A graduate from Tulane University School of Medicine, Dr. Souyoul completed her dermatology residency at Louisiana State University Health Science Center in New Orleans where she served as chief resident in her final year. After completing residency, Dr. Souyoul spent three years working and training in New Orleans with Dr. Mary Lupo, one of the country’s leading experts in the field of non-surgical skin rejuvenation. Dr. Souyoul is relocating to Shreveport with her one-yearold son and husband, Dr. Tyler Plauche M.D., a radiologist at Diagnostic Imaging Associates. Dr. Pennington and Dr. Souyoul have a passion for taking the time to truly listen to their patients and address their concerns. They have the entire range of treatment options available. Regardless of your concerns, they can help. They both strive to maintain the highest level of care with up to date education and cutting edge technology, which they pair with a team of women who truly care. Along with their team of medical estheticians, they are available for cosmetic or in-depth skin consultations to assess

Dr. Lindsey Pennington, Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon (Left), Dr. Skylar Souyoul, Board Certified Dermatologist

DR. SOUYOUL IS CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. To see her as a patient please call Pennington Facial Plastics at (318) 2165366. You can follow Drs. Souyoul and Pennington at @Penningtonfacialplastics on Instagram and Facebook for information on the latest skin care products, cosmetic injectables and skin rejuvenation procedures. Email: info@penningtonfacialplastics.com

what products and treatment plans are best for you as an individual. Dr. Pennington is highly specialized in facial procedures, injections, and surgery. She offers a full array of services from non-invasive injections of Botox and dermal fillers such as Juvéderm and Restylane to more in depth surgical procedures such as rhinoplasty (nose job), blepharoplasty (eyelid lifts), and rhytidectomy (facelifts and neck lifts). Her passion is to refine a patient’s natural beauty. Dr. Souyoul’s specialization in disorders of the skin covering the entire body and her expertise with noninvasive devices and injections of neurtotoxin such as Botox and dermal fillers make them a natural fit to team up and offer north Louisiana the region’s best cosmetic services. Come experience the difference with their office.

6030 Line Avenue, Suite 110 Shreveport, LA 71106 •(318) 216-5366

www.penningtonfacialplastics.com @penningtonfacialplastics REFINING NATURAL BEAUTY

What’s

for Skin Care?

ust like the perfect little black dress, skin care is not one size fits all. The right skin care routine needs to be tailored to you and your skin care goals. Board Certified Dermatologist Skylar Souyoul M.D. has spent years training and performing clinical trials for cosmetic and medical dermatology in New Orleans and Boston. She has recently relocated and joined Dr. Lindsey Pennington M.D. in Shreveport. We asked her to share with us any advancement in technology or skincare coming that people will want to be the first to try. “I am so excited about our new 68

SkinCeutical D.O.S.E. machine at Pennington Facial Plastics, a machine that brings a compounding lab and customized skincare together in the office. It took three years and a legion of dermatologists, scientists, and Silicon Valley engineers to create the Skinceuticals' Custom D.O.S.E. machine. Currently this is only the second machine in the state of Louisiana, so we are so thrilled to be on the forefront of truly personalized skincare. “SkinCeuticals has a line of medical grade skin care that we have sold in our practice since opening. It has quickly become our best selling line and a favorite among our patients. This D.O.S.E. machine is the newest innovation from them. It formulates and compounds individualized serums specifically for you, based on your skin care needs. The ingredients, vehicle, and amount of medicine are calculated and customized specifically for you. These custom serums treat skin issues such as fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, redness, acne, rosacea and melasma. “With the new D.O.S.E. machine, I am able to make one specialized product to address all your skin needs instead of

recommending multiple over the counter and prescription medicines. This new one step approach makes it easier for patients to stay consistent with their skin care regimen and saves them time and money by not having to apply numerous different products. Through a combination of photographs and my input as a Board Certified Dermatologist, an analysis of your skin can be evaluated through a series of 85,000 algorithms to design your perfect skin care formula. The same machine then compounds it. All of this happens in less than 10 minutes! “The multitude of active ingredients available in the D.O.S.E. machine for your individual serum is the best part. Tranexamic acid is the latest product used to treat hyperpigmentation. It is less irritating than the more commonly used hydroquinone, and in many patients it’s actually more effective. It’s safe for long term use and doesn’t

cause photosensitivity. Another active ingredient option is azelaic acid, which I have traditionally prescribed individually to patients for treatment of their acne and rosacea. Azelaic acid works by cleaning out the pores to prevent whitehead and blackheads. It is antibacterial, which helps ward off pimples and reduces inflammation. These examples are two of the many possibilities. There are over 48 possible combinations with glycolic acid, retinol, and niacinamide being just a few more. We essentially have a completely customizable skin care lab at our disposal. Having all of these active ingredients available to compound in our office is truly the future of skincare.” To learn more about the SkinCeutical D.O.S.E. machine or to schedule your personal skin care consultation, please call (318)216-5366. Dr. Skylar Souyoul M.D. is a Board Certified Dermatologist who has recently joined board certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Lindsey Pennington M.D. Together, their years of education and expertise provide the perfect environment for truly one stop self care, anti-aging, and skincare needs. Office is located 6030 Line Ave Suite 110, Shreveport LA. Follow @ penningtonfacialplastics to stay up to date on specials and events. www.penningtonfacialplastics.com Dr. Lindsey Pennington, (left) and Dr. Skylar Souyoul (right)

downtownruston

downtwonrustonla

DO WNTO WN RUST ON A N D R U S T ON LI N COLN CVB HOS T

LOUISIANA PEACH FESTIVAL 2021 THE LOUISIANA PEACH FESTIVAL

is a long-

standing Ruston tradition dating back to 1951. The festival was created by area

All festival activities are FREE to attend from 9:00am - 3:00pm. Admission from 3:00pm - 11:00pm is $10 per person ($5 for kids 12 and under).

peach farmers as a way to promote their industry and the delicious peaches they produced throughout Louisiana and surrounding states. Over the years, the Peach Festival has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors to Lincoln Parish and pumped millions back into the local economy. The festival has seen many changes over its 70 years, but through it all, the event has continued to be a source of excitement and pride in the community. In 2021, the Ruston Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau and Downtown Ruston took over

9:00AM - 3:00PM P E AC H A R T M A R K E T

Discover art, handmade items, and homemade goods from local artists, artisans, and makers.  Located in Sexton Lot

9:00AM - 3:00PM

K I D S A L L E Y: A N A R T E X P E R I E N C E

Kids of all ages can enjoy hands-on art activities including peachy crafts, calligraphy, photography, art demonstrations, and more!  Located in Esma’s Alley, 112 E Park Ave.

9:00AM - 3:00PM

coordination of the event with the goal

P E AC H A R T E X H I B I T

of continuing the event's legacy as a

The North Central Louisiana Arts Council will again host its popular Peach Art Exhibit during the festival. The exhibit features drawings, paintings, photography, 3-D art, and mixed media from artists of all ages.  Located in the Historic Fire Station, 200 E. Mississippi Ave.

celebration of Ruston's local talent and delicious peaches.

9:00AM - 11:00PM We hope you will join us for this homegrown music + arts festival on

JUNE 5, 2021 in Downtown Ruston. ___________

For other peachy events like the Princess Peach Pageant, Dixie Gem Pageant, Baby Photo Contest, Fishing Tournament and more, check out

WWW.LAPEACHFEST.COM

LIVE PERFORMANCES ON T H E R A I L R O A D PA R K S TAG E

• 9AM- Jade Reynolds

• 2PM Zach O’Neil

• 10AM Lady Chops

• 4PM The Cypress Knees

• 11AM

Josh Love

• 12PM Victoria Wells • 1PM

Bill Deese

• 5:30PM Tipsey the Band • 7:20PM LVVRS • 9:30PM The Hollow Decks

downtownruston

dow

LOUISIANA MAIN STREET:

Downtown WRITTEN BY VICTORIA ARNOLD

Ruston - P r e s e rv i n g t h e Pa st-

PHOTOS BY WESLEY HARRIS HISTORICAL PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE WESLEY HARRIS COLLECTION

hen you think of the downtown region of small American cities, there are a few words that come to mind. For many that call Ruston home, they often describe downtown as cute, quirky, charming, and everything in between. Residents who have grown attached to the area often choose to make it their home due to the welcoming atmosphere and strong local community. Ruston is not only enjoyed by the current population, but also past populations as well. Established in 1885, Ruston grew as an area of community pride, educational opportunity, and economic growth throughout the aftermath of the American Civil War and during the expansion of western-bound railroad systems. As a result, Ruston’s downtown area became solidified over time as the main center of commerce and community, and has also played a vital role in developing the culture of one of northern Louisiana’s most important cities. “It really is the heartbeat of where we live, and it’s important to remember how our city has grown over time,” said Amy Stegall, the Main Street Director for the City of Ruston. Calling Ruston home for several years now, Stegall currently works to preserve the downtown area of Ruston by assisting local business owners, maintaining the welcoming atmosphere of the area, and fueling the overall community-centered mindset-all through the the national program known as The Main Street Program. Though the downtown area is Ruston’s greatest community hub, many residents may not know the historical significance of downtown. That’s where Main Street comes in. Tony Hiss, author of The Experience Place describes the Main Street Program

as “a highly successful citizen-led movement you may never have heard of ” that has “quietly regenerated 1,600 U.S. communities over the last 45 years, reviving historic downtowns, creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs, and $85 billion in new investments, while keeping the hearts of the nation’s small towns and cities beating.” Ruston became nationally accredited as a part of Main Street in 2017 with a 4-prong approach to organize, design, promote downtown life, and increase the local economy. Not only does it provide funding and grant opportunities to the businesses in Ruston’s downtown center, but it also aids in preserving some of Ruston’s oldest buildings. Today,

“

it’s exciting to know our city’s history, because discovering who lived here and passed through our little city may surprise you. buildings like the Ruston State Bank, the Dixie Theater, and more, have been well-preserved, but many buildings have been repurposed that originally stood in the downtown area. Many of these buildings make up the businesses

that Ruston residents are familiar with, though the unique history behind them may be unknown to many. However, some traces of these antique monuments still remain, and can be found in specific buildings through the character and architecture of the buildings. Looking at old photographs, the areas like churches, hotels, the Railroad Park area, and others, you can still identify the bones of these historic places. Not only are the buildings themselves important, but many parts of downtown have often been passed down within historic Ruston families for generations. In fact, our very own Bevin Hicks has ancestral ties to the Harris Hotel,

located where Champs Sports Bar and Restaurant is located today. Stegall explained: “it’s exciting to know our city’s history, because discovering who lived here and passed through our little city may surprise you.” For the future, Stegall hopes that Main Street will continue to nurture Ruston’s downtown Ruston as a “live, work, and play” place. And the best way to encourage city growth is through its citizens investing in its culture, history, and community--starting with the heart of the city’s center for community: Downtown Ruston. 73

Take a Tour.... The Rich History of

WRITTEN BY WESLEY HARRIS

Ruston, Louisiana

The Methodist Church downtown was located on what is now Hwy 167 going southbound.

Today, two of the windows from the church remain on the side of the business where The Visual Difference LLC is located today.

A street view of what is now Hwy 167 Ruston the early 1900s. On the left side of the frame is the Harris Hotel, where Champ’s Sports Bar and Restaurant and The Collective are located today. You can see the Methodist Church in the background. 74

A modern day street view of the old Ruston State Bank, a famous historic landmark that was constructed in 1910.

THE LINCOLN PARISH MUSEUM

is located in the Kidd-Davis House which dates to 1885, one year after the founding of Ruston. In that year, Leroy Madison Kidd, a merchant from the neighboring town of Vernon in Jackson Parish, moved his business to the recently established railroad town of Ruston. He bought an entire block from Robert E. Russ, city founder and namesake of Ruston. Kidd then sold the property to Charles H. Harris, who started construction of a house in 1886. Either during construction or soon after, Harris sold the property and the new house to Captain Milton B. Kidd, brother and business partner of the original owner of the lot. The Kidd family occupied the house until 1921 when it was sold to the Robert Wesley Davis family. The museum interior has been restored to its turn of the 20th century appearance. Exhibits featuring local history occupy the upper floor.

THE Y.A HARRIS BUILDING

The Harris family was engaged in operating hotels in downtown Ruston in the first decades of the 1900s. The building was constructed as an annex for a larger hotel a block to the south. The upstairs, which included a doctor's office and rooms for boarders, is essentially unchanged from those days. Note the doctor's name painted on the last upstairs window. The balcony outside the second story door has been removed. The ground floor has always been occupied by offices and retail shops, including a Jitney Jungle grocery store in the 1940s-50s. The building owners have plans to fully restore the structure, including upstairs living areas.

A wider angle of the Harris Hotel, located today at the corner of West PArk Avenue and North Trenton Street.

BEALL’S

The old Lincoln Parish Courthouse, early 1900s. Unfortunately, the building no longer stands.

was one of the largest department stores in Ruston for many years. This location experienced a major fire in 1966, one of several that has ravaged the downtown district in the last 100 years. With buildings adjoining one another, fire easily spreads from one to another. The 1966 fire led to significant changes to the Ruston Fire Department. At the time, the department did not have any ladder trucks or aerial trucks and had to rely on a utility company's bucket trucks to fight the fire. The enhancement of equipment in the years after vastly improved Ruston's firefighting capabilities. This site was renovated and several businesses have occupied it since the fire. Beall's moved to a new location in Village Plaza, Ruston's first strip mall which has since been demolished.

A view of Marbury Drug Company, where The Fabric Shop is located off of Park Avenue today.

BRICK ROW

A wide angle view of Railroad park, circa early 1900s.

A view of Park Avenue today in front of Railroad Park, where Marbury Drug Company used to be.

This block of Park Avenue was originally called “Brick Row” because it was the only block where the first buildings were all constructed of brick. When the first lots were sold to businesses moving to the new town of Ruston, buyers were informed their businesses had to be of brick to create a positive impression on those passing through on the Vicksburg, Shreveport & Pacific Railroad. It continues to be the showcase of the Historic District.

MEN’S SINGLES UTR Prize Money Tournament

June 18-20th, 2021

Ryler DeHeart, formerly ranked 174 in the world!

Friday 10-6 | Saturday 10-4 | Finals Sunday 2-4

Public welcome to attend!

Watch some of the BEST PLAYERS in the area compete for over $3000.00 in prize money

For more information contact:

Scott Smith scottsmith@squirecreek.com

(774) 521-4370

Title Sponsor:

LOUISIANA FAMILY MEDICINE Contributing sponsors

Ruston, LA • squirecreek.com

• • • • • • •

Charlies Carpet Cleaning First National Bank Dr. Lamar Johnston Dental Clinics Argent Financial Services Hunt – Guillot Oneal Gas Green Clinic

Girls’ Night

COCKTAIL TASTING

here is nothing better than a girl’s night, and a girl’s night with a cocktail tasting menu is the best night ever. I love to surprise my friends with a night full of a variety of different cocktails that really expands their palate and allows them to try different flavors and spirit combinations. It’s so much fun. For this cocktail tasting menu I decided to introduce two different vodka cocktails, a gin cocktail, and a rum cocktail. All are perfect for a day by the pool, but different in every way. The first cocktail is “The Summer Garden”. This fresh and delicious cocktail is made with cucumber vodka, elderflower liqueur, violet syrup, lemon juice, mint, and topped with an elderflower violet foam. This cocktail is light and refreshing with a delicious floral aroma and taste. Next, I introduced a delicious “Limoncello Blueberry Lemon Granita Martini” made with delicious Yellowfin Vodka. This cocktail is made with a simple and easy granita. I love to make this delicious treat using different fruits. Rum cocktails are perfect for a day by the pool. They are the ultimate tropical spirit and can often be light and refreshing on a hot day. These “Razzmatazz Daiquiris” are made with delicious muddled raspberries, raspberry syrup, lime juice, sherry and a little bit of toasted coconut syrup. Finally, the beautiful “Pinkies Up” cocktails are made with delicious and beautiful Empress 1908 gin. This spirit is made with butterfly pea flower which gives it the beautiful lavender hue.

WRITTEN BY SABRINA NEWELL

LOULOU

Limoncello Blueberry Lemon Granita Martini 2 tablespoons Blueberry Lemon granita 2 ounce Yellowfin Vodka 1 ounce Limoncello ½ ounce lemon juice • Place the granita in a martini glass and freeze until ready to serve. Add the yellowfin vodka and limoncello to a shaker filled with ice. Shae to combine and pour

over the granita. • Garnish with frozen blueberries and a lemon wheel. to make the blueberry lemon granita: Combine 2 cups blueberry simple syrup, 2 cups water, and ½ cup lemon juice. Freeze and scrape with a fork every 3 hours.

YOU CAN FIND ALL OF THESE RECIPES & MANY MORE AT LOULOUSUCRE.COM

Razzmatazz Daiquiris 2-3 raspberries, muddled 2 ounce white rum ¼ ounce sherry ¾ ounce lime juice ½ ounce raspberry syrup ½ toasted coconut syrup • Muddle the raspberries in a shaker. Add ice and add the rum, sherry, lime juice, raspberry and coconut syrups. Shake vigorously to combine. Strain into a coupe glass. • Garnish with frozen raspberries and a lime wedge.

The Summer Garden 4 mint leaves 2 ounce cucumber vodka 1 ounce elderflower liqueur (I use St. Germain) 1 ounce lemon juice ½ ounce rose syrup 2 drops Love Potion No. 9 bitters • In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mint leaves until the oils are released. Add ice, cucumber vodka, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, rose syrup, and bitters.

• Shake vigorously to combine and strain into a martini glass. • Top with an elderflower rose foam and garnish with a sprig of mint. for the elderflower rose foam: Add 4 egg whites to a whipped cream maker, add ¼ cup elderflower liqueur, and 2 teaspoons rose liqueur. Add the CO2 cartridge and shake 5 times to combine.

Pinkies Up 2 ounces Empress 1908 Gin ½ ounce elderflower liqueur (I used St. Germain) ½ ounce lemon juice ½ ounce Maraschino liqueur • Using a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and Maraschino liqueur. Shake vigorously to combine. Strain into a champagne glass. • Garnish with a Maraschino cherry, top with champagne or sparkling wine.

Pretty x Practical Design = Clear, Concise Communication for your organization

Richard Creative is proud to design Lola Magazine and ReadLola.com Lola Magazine 1

June/July 202

Let us help refine and polish your organization’s visual communications

Website Design • Logos & Branding Marketing Strategy • Print Collateral info@Richard-Creative.com • 318-490-6555

AudioBook Review BY DANIELLE RICHARD

This all-female anthology features 58 authors and 2 editors — all focused on the future health and stability of the Earth’s climate. Learn more at Allwecansave.earth AUDIOBOOK NARRATED BY AYANA ELIZABETH JOHNSON KATHARINE K. WILKINSON CRISTELA ALONZO SOPHIA BUSH KIMBERLY DREW AMERICA FERRERA JANE FONDA ILANA GLAZER JULIA LOUIS-DREYFUS JANET MOCK BAHNI TURPIN ALFRE WOODARD

The work starts here. The work starts together. -

COLETTE PICHON BATTLE

ALL WE CAN SAVE Truth, Courage, and Solutions for the Climate Crisis

limate. Crisis. Two words that instantly conjure a gut reaction. Everyone feels differently, but they all feel strongly about a topic that is becoming more and more fraught with scary statistics, shameful destruction, and a looming sense of hopelessness. As someone who has been seeking out information about our current climate situation and how to remedy it, I was thrilled to find this collection of essays and poetry was actually the opposite of scary. “All We Can Save” is surprisingly hopeful and filled with solutions and perspectives from over 2 dozen kick-ass women from different backgrounds and areas of expertise. Editors Eyana Elizabeth Johnson and Katharine K. Wilkinson (both giants among climate experts) describe it as being “about a spectrum of work that needs doing and a collective effort to make our best contributions; it’s not about heroes. So whether you are a veteran of the climate movement, a keen onlooker from the sidelines, or someone joining this conversation or the first time, we hope you will find yourself in these pages.” And the pages deliver all three as promised: truth, courage, and solutions. Because what we pay attention to grows, the book sorts these future-looking pieces into 8 areas of focus: Root, Advocate, Reframe, Reshape, Persist, Feel, Nourish and Rise. Whether we know it or not, climate change

South Louisiana is losing land at one of the fastest rates on the planet.

already affects every Louisiana resident from the piney woods of North Louisiana to the marshes along the Gulf coast. In Part 8: Rise, a Louisiana perspective is skillfully submitted from Slidell native, Colette Pichon Battle, a seasoned advocate for the Gulf coast who describes herself as an Attorney, Advocate, and Multi-racial Alliance Builder. Battle found herself acting as an emergency connection point for friends and family from many states away when Katrina hit. With her functioning Washington DC cell number, she created a makeshift command center in her office and from then forward she was committed to helping the people of South Louisiana recover and rebuild. In her essay, “An Offering from the Bayou,” Battle describes a pivotal moment a couple of years into her work after Katrina. It was the first time she was introduced to the data represented in Louisiana floodmaps. Views of the past few years showed the waters of the Gulf of Mexico seeping into every nook and cranny of South Louisiana. Views of the next few years into the future showed the erasure of the very land her own community had been anchored in for decades. Her mission was forever shifted from the short-term recovery from the damages of Katrina, to the long-term preservation of the land from disappearing altogether. You’ll have to read the full essay to understand the beauty of her unique perspective, but Battle ends with a most uplifting message: “We can do this, y’all. We can do this because we must. We must or else we lose our planet and we lose ourselves.” 81

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Peace Pieces? Am I at

or in

WRITTEN BY FELECIA WILLIAMS | OWNER OF MY SPA MY WAY

o forgive others, even when it is hard to do. To continue to help without a thank you. Showing up when needed, but not invited when desired. Accepting others even when you are blamed. This is faith. Morning after morning and restless nights without sleep do not deter you. You continue to wake, walk and welcome life’s new journey with open arms, mind, and spirit to still so that you have the opportunity to ask again; Am I at PEACE OR IN PIECES? As I approach my fifteenth year in business, my ninth year since my divorce and struggle with health problems, I continue to fight every day. I keep striving to be my best self, and I keep succeeding. As the gospel artist Marvin Sapp reminds me each morning as I open my eyes to his songs in meditation and prayer. Strength isn’t about how much you can handle before you break; it’s how much you can endure after you’ve been broken.. I struggle with this article because so much has happened in the last year. Fighting to reopen my business and stay open, being more concerned with my employees surviving as I determine how much more I should fight, struggling to take care of myself and the ones I love. You know the feeling. So I wonder; Am I at peace or simply in pieces? In a world where the voices seem to just get louder, the hate gets more intense, and

hope becomes more hopeless, how do we as women continue to fight the current and swim upstream? Do we stroke harder, swim faster, or give up the fight and pray we float in the right direction? When drowning and feeling overwhelmed, just stop! Don’t fight the negative voices, the whispers, ugly looks, Facebook posts, twitter comments, and self doubt. Then ask yourself what do I do? The answer may be to accept where you are, address the foolishness along the way, or simply plan a new path for your next destination. Either way, you must determine if you are at peace or in pieces. And if you are the latter, determine what course of action to take. Regrets, failures and mistakes are the many pieces that require continued work to achieve a lasting peace. Work to transform your brokenness into something more beautiful than you could ever imagine. Take your mess and your mistakes and create a masterpiece. As you begin to sketch your ideas along the way, allow your journey to be your canvas and God to be your paint brush as you create your masterpiece called life. Brokenness

isn’t

excuse

to abandon your mission. It’s an opportunity to use the pieces, trust your vision and the gifts God has given you to find your PEACE.

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October 23

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GIVING BACK Spotlight:

Moving Mountains for Miriam

ust a year ago, the Bishops were a family of four: Casey, Joy and their two children, Ellis (4), and Vivian (3). Thinking their plans for two children were complete, Casey had undergone a preventative procedure, but God had bigger plans for this precious family. Much to their surprise, in the summer of 2020, Joy and Casey found out Baby Bishop #3 was on her way. On January 4, 2021, miracle baby Miriam Margaret Bishop made her arrival with a head full of hair and an enormous amount of love. In the weeks following Miriam’s birth, Joy became concerned with small signs that Miriam was in distress. At only 10 weeks old, Miriam began having mutable daily seizures. After numerous hospital stays and extensive testing, her genetic testing revealed a CDKL5 deficiency. CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (CDD for short, or just CDKL5) is a type of epilepsy that occurs in about 1 in 40,000 births. Most of these rare cases are a spontaneous mutation, meaning the child does not get it from either parent. It just happens. The CDKL5 gene is located on the X chromosome and provides instructions for making proteins that are essential for normal brain function and neuron development. Deficiencies of the gene can cause delays and impairment to cognitive, speech, motor, digestion, and vision functioning. CDKL5 is extremely rare and was first isolated as an independent disorder in 2004. The diagnosis, although devastating to the Bishop family, was handled with a tremendous display of faith. Miriam has been a miracle baby from conception and Joy and Casey stay faithful that once again, God’s plans are bigger than their own. Shortly after Miriam’s diagnosis, the troops started marching in. Joy and Casey’s family and friends began to rally and within a week “Moving Mountains for Miriam” was established. In just a single day hundreds of donations were given to the fundraiser that had been created to assist the Bishop family with medical and travel expenses and for donating funding towards the CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder Foundation. It is often said “it takes a village,” but due to the love that Joy and Casey had shown prior to this challenge they have more than a village, they have an entire army standing behind them. The Bishops and the community of supporters standing with them are armed and ready to take on this disorder and watch all that God will do through this miraculous baby girl. You can follow “Moving Mountains for Miriam” on Facebook for more information on CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder and to follow Miriam’s progress. While her future is uncertain to us, we know that God has promised to move mountains through faith alone.

CDKL5 has adopted the Starfish as their symbol-this is why… Adapted from The Star Thrower by Loren Eiseley (1907 – 1977)

nce upon a time, there was a wise man who liked to go to the ocean and walk on the beach. One day, as he was walking along the shore, he looked down the beach and saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled to himself at the thought of someone who would dance to the day, so he walked faster to catch up. As he got closer, he noticed that the figure was that of a young boy, and that what he was doing was not dancing at all. The young boy was reaching down to the shore, picking up starfish and gently throwing them into the ocean, beyond the breaking waves. “I must ask, why are you throwing starfish into the ocean?” asked the somewhat startled wise man. To this the young boy replied, “The sun is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them in, they’ll die.” Upon hearing this, the wise man commented, “But, young child, do you not realize that there are miles and miles of beach and there are starfish all along every mile? You can’t possibly make a difference!” As if he hadn’t heard, the young boy bent down, picked up yet another starfish and threw it lovingly back into the ocean. As it met the water, he turned, smiled and said, “I made a difference to that one!”

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Lola Magazine June July 2021

Articles inside

Audiobook Review

Give Back Spotlight

At Peace or in Pieces

Lou Lou Sucre

Louisiana Mainstreet

Instant Gratification

Kids Crafts

What’s Next for Skin Care

Interior Plants

The Libbi Thomas Foundation

Hostess with the Mostess

Summer Breeze

Robinsons Rescue