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HOLIDAY
8 The Gift Alternative Christmas gifts from the heart 74 Holiday Stress Your guide to a stressfree holiday season 54 Holiday Travel For a different holiday experience 22 The Reason for the Season Taking the time to take in the magic
HEALTH AND BEAUTY 64 Weight Loss Breakthrough The genetic key to weight loss 84 Winter Skin Love the skin you are in this winter 59 Beauty Your Way Redefining unreachable standards
PHOTOGRAPHER
Mary-Kaitlyn Allen with Glamour and Grace Photography MODEL
Marli Johnson A Special Thank You to 8445 Med Spa
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LOUISIANA LADIES
36 Be Yourself Confessions of a Recovering Reformist 17 Copland’s Legacy Giving back to Louisiana 78 Get to Know, Bianca Plant Cookbook author, dietitian, nutrition advocate
HOME AND ENTERTAINING
26 Hostess With the Mostess Winter Weddings 51 DIY Outdoor Christmas Gifts
KIDDOS
69 Room Redoux Giving hope through transformation and healing 46 Children’s Christmas Books with Louisiana Flair
COMMUNITY
82 Business Spotlight Events by Tabitha Browhow 87 The United Way 100 years in the making 91 Must Attend Events
wishing you a very
MerryChristmas & a happy new year
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LET’S STOP TELLING EACH OTHER HOW BUSY WE ARE…
Crazy concept right? T
he year. I love every thing about the the warmth and he holidays holidaysare aremy myfavorite favoritetime timeofofthethe year. I love every thing about warmth enchantment of the of season. That being I also runI myself ragged and ragged usually and end and enchantment the season. Thatsaid, being said, also run myself
too exhausted to too really enjoy thetomoments. It is the in my nature toItmake and every detail usually end up exhausted really enjoy moments. is in each my nature to make picture perfect fordetail my family and perfect loved ones. theand gifts,loved the meals, music, must be each and every picture for The my tree, family ones.the The tree,allthe gifts, pristine…. Actually, often missRight? the magic in the ordinary striving the meals,Right? the music, all wrong… must beWe pristine…. Actually, wrong…moments, We often miss to thein moments magical. So, I havestriving decided to to make stop the withmagical. the silly details this themake magic the ordinary moments, themadness moments So, I have year. I amtogoing not be “too this year andthis to breath the going memories being decided stoptry theand madness withbusy” the silly details year. in I am to try andmade not right in front me. year Thereand is a to good chance I willmemories slip up a time or made two, but I amingoing it be “too busy”ofthis breath in the being right fronttoofgive me. an all-star the Christmas tree, the tree must perfect. year I will There is aeffort. good Except chancefor I will slip up a time or two, but Ibeam goingMaybe to givenext it an all-star tackle that effort.letting Except forone thego.Christmas tree, the tree must be perfect. Maybe next year I will Thisletting issue of Lola Magazine celebrates the holidays with you. Check out our Christmas Gift tackle that one go. Giving for truly thoughtful ideas forthe excellent gift giving. We have the honor of ThisAlternatives issue of Lola Magazine celebrates holidays with you. Check out our introducing Liz Copland, the entrepreneur and philanthropist who gives back to Louisiana in Christmas Gift Giving Alternatives for truly thoughtful ideas for excellent gift giving. countless We bring you the latest Liz breakthrough weight loss, thephilanthropist latest wedding We have ways. the honor of introducing Copland, in thegenetic entrepreneur and trends for winter nuptials, and so more.ways. We bring you the latest breakthrough in who gives back to Louisiana inmuch countless If you find yourself stress sneaking up onnuptials, you, takeand a deep breath more. and ask genetic weight loss, thefeeling latestholiday wedding trends for winter so much yourself important in that very moment. And then dotake that.aYou just and find If youwhat findisyourself feeling holiday stress sneaking upsimply, on you, deepmay breath yourself having the is best holiday season From all of us at Lola Merry ask yourself what important in thatever. very moment. And thenMagazine, simply, do that.Christmas, You may and New Year. just Happy find yourself having the best holiday season ever. From all of us at Lola Magazine, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year.
Many Blessings, Many Blessings, Bevin 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 Jessica Carr CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Donesa Walker Jessica Comegys Dr. Karen Pendleton Payton Denney Hannah Gumbo Copelands Legacy Bridget Hamm Felecia Williams Lori Yokem Laurie Calahan Michelle Yetman Ph.D. Rebecca Bingham CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jarrett Warren Brittany Boudreaux Callie Carter with Callie Jo Photography Mary-Kaitlyn Allen with Glamour and Grace Photography COVER PHOTOGRAPHER
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Think OUTSIDE the GIFT BOX
Non-Traditional Christmas Gifts for Your Loved Ones
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CALLIE HEARNSBERGER CARTER WITH CALLIE JO PHOTOGRAPHY
8
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CALLIE HEARNSBERGER CARTER WITH CALLIE JO PHOTOGRAPHY
It’s the most wonderful time of the year!
W
ith that comes the annual wracking of our brains for unique and thoughtful gifts for our loved ones. After all the overthinking, we often find ourselves stuck gift-less with little time in stores. These days, it’s safe to say everyone has enough candles and throw blankets. It is true, the joy of Christmas isn’t from gifts, it is from the memories made with friends and family, and yet we still long to find the perfect gift. Instead of wrapping up the typical “Top Ten Christmas Gifts of The Season,” take some time to think outside the box this year.
The Gift of... 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
New Experiences Food Travel Time Something Homemade Sentimental Sentiment Alternatives for Kids 9
The Gift of
NEW EXPERIENCES Examples Skydiving Lessons Fly-Fishing Lessons Sewing Classes Self-Defense Classes Movie Tickets Concert Tickets Cooking Lessons Personal Chef Escape Rooms Ax Throwing Music Lessons ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
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f someone you love has a bucket list, help them scratch something off it. We have all kinds of cool experiences in our area and the surrounding areas as well. You can book a skydiving session or fly-fishing lessons for the adventurer. If you want to keep it simple, movie and concert tickets make for great gifts. If there is something they have always wanted to learn, sewing classes or a self-defense course gives experience and lifelong skills. Cooking lessons are a wonderful experience to share together. If cooking is not their thing, you can hire a personal chef to come cook a special meal! Escape rooms and ax throwing are a blast for a night out. Keep the candles on the shelf and give them an experience they will never forget this year.
The Gift of
D
FOOD
on't ever underestimate the power of food when it comes to gift-giving. Whether you want to share your city's best bites with a faraway loved one, do something nice for a coworker or friend, or plan a celebratory evening, a beautifully wrapped treat will win the day. Premade local eats are always a hit. Homemade gumbo and baked goods are always a winner. With all the cooking that goes on during the holidays, pick up a catered meal for the days leading up to Christmas, or when the leftovers have run dry. One of our favorite holiday goodies are premade cookie decoration kits from one of our local bakeries. You can really steal the show with a premade charcuterie board that everyone can enjoy. A bottle of wine is always a good choice, but if you want to mix it up, cocktail mixers with the required liquor will be sure to keep spirits bright. Everyone loves to eat so you can’t go wrong with feeding their hearts through the gift of food.
Prepared Eats Gumbo Charcuterie Chicken Salad Boards
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Bakery Homemade Cookie Pastries Decorating Fresh Bread Kits
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Miscellaneous Wine Cocktail Mixers Catered Meals
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The Gift of
SENTIMENTAL SENTIMENT Your Own Special Item Favorite Book Original Old Records Artwork Family or CD Heirlooms
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Replicas of Special Items Jewelry Art Replacing Lost or Broken Special Items Jewelry or Pieces of Watches broken China A missing piece of a silver set
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f you strive to pull at their holiday heartstrings, then you should give a gift with sentimental values. It may be hard to let these items go, but if you know it will mean more to someone you love, then it will be worth parting with. A favorite book, an old record or CD, an original piece of artwork, or a family heirloom all come with heartfelt meaning and memories that will likely bring happy tears on Christmas morning. If you cannot let go of your own, but you know it would make the perfect gift, find an exact or similar replica. For instance, your sister has been in love with your pendant for years and you can find her one just like it or your best friend loves an original piece of art, gift them a different piece by the same artist. They will love the gift and be touched that you took notice. Most of us have an item that we lost or broke in the past that we never got over, like a particular watch lost in travel, a piece of family China that was broken, or the missing pieces of a set of silver. The gift of replacing special items gives a sense of relief and priceless joy.
The Gift of
R
TRAVEL
ather than saving up for new toys, gadgets or material things to give your family this Christmas, why not save for a trip instead? Everyone loves to get the gift of Disney World, but there are plenty of other options when it comes to giving the gift of travel. If your crew loves to ski, is full of history buffs, or the beach is their happy place, call a local travel agent and they will help you make the trip of a lifetime a reality. It may cost a tad bit more, but if you plan, you can save on plane tickets and accommodation costs. Also, it eliminates the need to stress about what each member of the family would like to get! If you are on a tight budget, you can consider booking them a weekend stay in a nice spa, cabin retreat or a weekend winery tour not far from home. There will be no time for after the holiday blues, when you give the gift of travel, it will give everyone something to look forward to.
Cruises Caribbean Disney Alaskan European
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Weekend Trips of a Getaways Lifetime Broken Bow, Ok. New England The Arlington Resort, Hot Springs Tours European Disney World Tours Kiepersol Winery Alland Vineyard, inclusive Bullard, Tx. beach resorts Sight-Seeing Tours Ski Vacation in New Orleans ✦
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The Gift of
TIME Free Babysitting Date Homemade Nights Gifts Your Talents Organizing Painting Meal Planning Sewing Playing Making a Musical Favorite Instruments Family Recipe Volunteering for a Non-Profit Sitting Serving Helping with the Meals gather elderly donations ✦ ✦
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ho hasn’t said, “I wish there were more hours in the day?” There’s nothing better than the gift of time, especially with the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The gift of time is completely free, but one of the most valuable gifts of all. Give the gift of babysitting for a friend who never has enough time to do something for herself. We all have a special knack for something. Give the gift of sharing it with friends and family. Whether it is organizing closets, meal planning, teaching someone how to play an instrument, making a family favorite recipe or painting a canvas - giving your time to share your talents is nothing short of priceless. If a loved one is involved in a non-profit, offer your time to volunteer to their cause. Date nights are a wonderful gift of time. If you and your significant other never find quality time together, or you feel like you have not had enough time to visit with your parents or grandparents, then you can make the commitment to gift them your time. It will make for special memories for both yourself and the ones you love.
The Gift of
S
SOMETHING HOMEMADE
ome of us have a long list of friends and family we have to shop for this holiday season. If the thought of buying small, useless gifts feels uninspiring, then you can give the gift of something homemade. You can cut down on the expenses and the hassle by giving them something special and made with love. Homemade bread, candies, pies and cakes are always enjoyed. If you don’t have the time to do the baking put together the ingredients and a printed recipe of a holiday favorite. Dry marinades, dips, Chex mix and candied nuts are also great options if you are short on time. Another thoughtful option is a collection of handwritten recipes that can be scanned in and reprinted on cardstock. Scented homemade bath salts give a sweet luxury for all during the hectic holidays. Handmade Christmas ornaments are precious and thoughtful gifts that will be cherished year after year. A new trend in homemade gift-giving is mason jar drink mixes. These make delicious cocktails that look festive and are full of holiday flavors by simply pouring the drink of choice in the mix and letting it sit overnight. Print out your own gift labels and seal these homemade gifts with a pretty bow for a Christmas gifting win.
Homemade Baked Goods Bread Cakes Pies Christmas Candy
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Ready to Make Treats with Recipes Marinades Candied Nuts Dip Mix Chex Mix
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Miscellaneous Scented Mason Handmade Bath Jar Drink Christmas Salts Mixes Ornaments
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Gifts for the...
KIDS Y
our kids reach a certain age when they don’t need that many toys or are beyond the concept of materialist gifts. Smaller kids can’t seem to get enough action figures or baby dolls, yet toys and gadgets quickly lose their luster. Especially when the particular toy comes with two hundred tiny parts and pieces. Older kids ask for the expensive shoes that they will soon outgrow or the newest video game that will more than likely consume them with hours on end of mindless screentime. Give them something not on their list that they don’t even know they want. Subscription boxes are one of the best gifts for not only kids but anyone on your list. From monthly slime-making kits and candy ✦ boxes from around the world to beauty boxes and Christianbased boxes full of inspirational items, subscription boxes give ✦ them something to look forward to every month of the year. ✦ Every kid has an interest that they are passionate about. Give them lessons for their favorite sport, instrument, or a skill they want to learn like sewing or art. Another fun option is memberships to their favorite places like the zoo, ✦ trampoline park, rock climbing center, or kids’ museums. Memberships not ✦ only make them happy, but they also give you the opportunity to spend more time being together and less time telling them to turn off the video game.
Subscription Boxes Kids Cooking Boxes Outdoor Boxes Beauty or Craft Boxes Bath Boxes Inspirational Boxes Food Boxes
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Lessons Music Sports Sewing Art
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Memberships Trampoline Park Rock Climbing Center Museums Zoos
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Make this Christmas one to remember with these alternatives to traditional gifts. You will really give Santa a run for his money.
Liz Copeland
A FAMILY LEGACY OF LOVE
GRANDCHILDREN: Preston Pierce, Beckham Pierce, Harper Donnelly, Hayden Fitzsimmons, Hayden, Liam, Rhett & Parker Reuter
E
WRITTEN BY REBECCA BINGHAM
LIZABETH TRENTADUE COPELAND brought her own big shoes to fill when she came into the world, a few bouncy grandmother’s decades ago. “I get so excited when I think about my first Christmas memory,” she says. “I must have been only 3 when my mom bought me a playhouse kitchen and outfitted it with an apron, a mop, a baby doll – everything I needed to ‘set up house.’ When I look back on that experience, I think it was a sign that I would eventually end up in the hospitality business.” 17
SIBLINGS: Deanne Patterson, David Trentadue & Rodney Trentadue
D
aughter of New Orleans natives Lynne and Rodney Trentadue, Liz grew up surrounded by a multi-generational family who owned and operated food businesses, mostly restaurants and grocery stores, in multiple locations around the city. “My aunts were some of the hardest-working women I’ve ever known,” she says. “Early on, it was because of how hard they worked that I decided I would never be in the food business. I set out to be a schoolteacher.” Elizabeth’s mother was right about the trajectory of her daughter’s life. “My mother must have known something when at 14, I met Al on a blind date. We’ve been best friends and business partners ever since we married. But the magic between us and our families really started way back then, during the holidays. Like thousands of other New Orleanians, our families made annual pilgrimages to see holiday lights displayed at the home of Sam and Myra Centanni.” According to local historians, Miss Myra’s labor of love was on display for nearly two decades. Each year, she showcased a different theme and filled the yard with lights, music and animated figures – a rarity during that analogue age. After Miss Myra died, Mr. Sam turned off the lights for good. 18
Elizabeth’s face lights up as she recounts how two family histories merged around holiday lights. She begins with Mr. Sam Centanni and his father, Antonio, who founded the Golden Seal Creamery in 1920. “Famous for their ice cream and for their Creole cream cheese, Golden Seal was the last known New Orleans supplier of this product, said to have originated among the French in the early 1800s. My grandfather, Philip Fury, was their first milkman – which is why I remember attending parties at the Centanni home when I was a young girl. And one of the other people who was particularly inspired by the Cetanni House turned out to be my father-inlaw, Al Copeland.” Alvin Charles Copeland, Sr. (19442008) founded Popeye’s Chicken and Biscuits in St. Bernard Parish in 1972. Almost three decades later, his eldest
son, Al Copeland Jr., became the CEO of Al Copeland Investments, a family of hotels, restaurants and comedy clubs throughout the United States. Liz is an executive partner and officer in each of the businesses she owns with her husband. When Mr. Centanni died in 1995, one of his sons says a Christmas wreath, complete with working lights, showed up among the flowers at the funeral home. The card read, “To Mr. Sam, the King of Christmas. From, Al Copeland.” Eventually, Mr. Al made his own holiday decorating dreams come true. For years, he decked out his upscale Metarie home with huge holiday-themed displays, which everybody loved. But the absolute favorite, the one everybody still begs to see, is the life-sized Nativity. “Most people didn’t get to see the loving side of him,” Liz says of
Because the Al Copeland Foundation believes we are on a path to fulfill a wish, to save lives and end Merkel cell carcinoma cancer, we host annual golf tournaments, fashion shows and invitation-only holiday parties, and still love sharing the joy of holiday lights…
But the greatest joy of all is knowing we are saving lives Copeland, Sr. “He had a generous spirit, often contributing to causes without asking for recognition. Most of all, he loved having his entire family together – aunts, uncles, siblings, children and grandchildren. It wasn’t unusual to have 40 people on our family vacations. We still do that!” “Big Al” had a spirit larger than life itself. New Orleans newspaper columnist Chris Rose noted, “I’m a big fan of overthe-top. A big fan of celebration. A big fan of lust for life. A big fan of Big Fun. Copeland epitomized these things. He was one more guy who put his life on display for all to see…” But the story doesn’t stop here, Liz insists. “After my father-in-law died, the Copeland family estate discussed the Lakefront house, and intended to tear it down and dedicate the land as an Al Copeland memorial park for public use. Ultimately the idea flopped, and the lot sat empty for four years. One day, while we were riding bikes on the levee, we decided to build what he calls our ‘lifetime achievement house’. I call it our Forever Home. We actually did it.
Now, it’s the home where we carry on the legacies of both families, including our five daughters, six grandsons and one granddiva!” It’s also the site of a new generation of holiday decorations. “We definitely don’t do the ‘grandstravaganzas’ anymore, but we do love sharing what everybody seems to enjoy the most: Mr. Al’s Nativity scene.” Liz recalls how the Copeland property seemed to fit their want list. It was on the water, a must for Al who grew up connected to water sports and racing. It was spacious, like Al Copeland Sr., a larger-than-life family personality. And it was big enough for the legacies of two families with roots in the food industry, the most basic and beautiful expression of hospitality. A 2018 article from Nola.com describes the Copeland 2.0 mansion as a grand neoclassical exterior with Doric columns, symmetrical fenestration and a triangular pediment. By contrast, its predecessor had a decidedly Mediterranean feel, thanks to its tall arched windows and tile roof. A few
-LIZ COPELAND
original elements from previous estate remain: Big Al’s palm trees, gate (cast with the initials AC) and for Christmas, a life-sized Nativity set. “Every year, we get asked if we’re going to decorate for Christmas,” explains Liz. “After Mr. Al died, we memorialized his Christmas display collection as part of the annual Christmas Lights Display at Lafrieniere Park in Jefferson Parish. The Nativity, however, is still with us!” Just like the Nativity, Liz and Al started their own family. “Al was 25, and I was pregnant with my third daughter when we opened the first of our own restaurants,” says Liz. “Al’s mother, Mary LeCompte, is the one who taught me how to do the books, as well as how to balance family and work life. She inspired me to enroll in management school. Certainly, I wanted to teach my daughters the value of hard work and an education, but mostly I wanted them to know how to be a good human being. In the process, I absolutely fell in love with the restaurant business, and I can’t imagine myself doing anything else but this.”
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f there’s one thing Liz Copeland doesn’t do, it’s one thing. For starters, she has five daughters and has been married 38 years. As Legacy Ambassador for the Al Copeland Foundation, Liz and her husband, the foundation’s president, want to save lives by finding a cure for Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare form of cancer that killed Copeland, Sr. On Easter Sunday in 2008, Mr. Al’s body gave way to the legacy of love his family created to support new local cancer research, education and patient programs at the Copeland-LSU Health Science Center Partnership in Viruses, Cancer and Immunotherapy. “Because ACF believes we are on a path to fulfill a wish, to save lives and end cancer, we host annual golf tournaments, fashion shows and invitation-only holiday parties, and still love sharing the joy of holiday lights,” Liz says. “But the greatest joy of all is knowing we are saving lives.” Ask anyone involved in New Orleans’ area addiction recovery communities about saving lives. They know Liz Copeland. Recently honored by Bridge House and Grace House as a Woman of Substance supporter, Liz says she can’t imagine a better investment of time and resources. “Being a good human means helping people when they need help, and we all need help sometime. Ask anybody who’s lived through a hurricane. Or a divorce. Or anything that seems bigger than you can handle. That’s what we’re here to do. We’re here to say yes to hope, yes to possibilities and yes to the future. We are better together, no doubt. If we do it right, it looks like Love. And that’s the best present of all.”
LIZ & DAUGHTERS: Allison Donnelly, Ashley Copeland, Alexandria Reuter (kneeling), Ariel Pierce, and Alyssa Cutrera
To donate to The Al Copeland Foundation visit www.ALCOPELANDFOUNDATION.org REBECCA BINGHAM is a travel
Hamilton in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
and officiates weddings. She also
writer who lives in a retrofitted
When not on the road, she plays
mainlines Sumatra and makes off-
condo inside the first resort on Lake
cello in her own string quartet
color jokes in art galleries.
20
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Remembering the
Purpose of the
Holidays
Holidays can be highly stressful times full of angst
and tasks. But, it is important that we focus on the
reason behind the season instead of all the hustle and bustle. This year has added stress due to the supply of goods and toys held up in ports across our nation. What better time to refocus our energies on the why/what of the season rather than the commercialism of the holidays?
Here are a few ways to repurpose your heart and brain this holiday season including ways to stimulate your memory! WRITTEN BY DONESA WALKER
Get Creative:
Create games from common materials around your home. All homes have junk drawers! Pull one out and dump everything in a bag. Tell the kids or family members to use the stuff in the drawer to create a game for the family to play or create a new Christmas character who might have visited the manger.
Time:
Spend time with your kids and family. To a child, love is spelled TIME and you are their greatest gift! Take time to just be with them making memories. We all have each other. Making memories together is priceless!
Focus on Experiences:
Rather than spending on random things that likely will be forgotten five holidays from now, spend on experiences. This is especially important for the child/family member who has a love language of acts of service. Plan a picnic at Norton Gardens or go see the lights at The American Rose Gardens. You can make a coupon book of fun things to do throughout the next year together. Let your child anticipate these exciting things and plan when they get to do them with you. 22
Volunteer: Take time this year to
volunteer with your family at a local charity. Read aloud to kids in the classroom or serve at Maggie's Closet or Community Friendship House. Help other kids with homework after school at The Lighthouse. Spend time with Veterans who are in Veterans' Homes or at a day camp for Veterans through VOA. We are blessed in our area with many ways to serve others and this is a priceless gift to kids of all ages because it demonstrates who we truly are as a people.
Explore Nature:
Have fun outdoors with the wonderful exploration of nature. Every yard has leaves, sticks and rocks, as well as other things. We have fabulous parks in our area, as well as beautiful lakes, rivers and bayous. Create a scavenger hunt for common things and let the kids have a blast exploring. For older adults and small children, you can do it hide and seek style inside the home by finding nature items and bringing them in, hiding them and allowing them to find them. Pick up pinecones, soak them overnight in water with Epsom Salt and red food coloring. Allow them to dry. They will become beautiful red pinecones you can decorate with or put on your firepit. You can also use them in your fireplace as a sparkler!
more that I did were: Who Hash (hashbrown casserole), Grinchy GreenBeans, Schlott’s Knots (rolls), Diffendoofers (green deviled eggs with avocado instead of mayo) Crunchy Chicken Lickins, Beezlenut Splash (lime punch), Cindy Lu Who Salad, Grinch Fruit Kabobs (strawberry hat with banana slices and green grape for face arranged as a kabob on a toothpick)and Dirty Puddle Pudding (chocolate pudding). The point is just to have fun planning a themed menu or just use creative names for common foods to turn it festive.
Story Time:
Take time to sit around the fire or living area talking and listening. Make some questions up in advance and have each person draw a question and talk about it or play would you rather. This boosts the auditory processing skills which are critical in listening and reading! It also connects the heart and mind causing big growth in the brain and social skills.
Reduce Anxiety:
Practice "could be worse" scenarios when things feel out of control or by counting the blessings of what is in front of you. Get a simple jar and give everyone a piece of paper to write one thing they are thankful for, put it in a jar and read it aloud to all. This attitude of gratitude is especially great for mindset!
Have Fun with Food: Dress Up: Traditional food may be too expensive or out of stock for many so consider being creative with your holiday foods. Get a stick of butter and cut it into quarters. Allow kids to carve their butter into a holiday sculpture for decor. Or if butter is too precious, have them use a bar of soap and carve the nativity characters using a spoon. For unusual fun, you could dehydrate some food in the oven or over an open fire outdoors to demonstrate common practices for our ancestors in preserving food. You can create an unusual spread. One year, I did Grinch food. I simply colored a picture and stuck it to a popsicle stick and made common foods into fun foods. For example, I made a roast and called it Roast Beast and I called a mound of potatoes Grinch Hill. My family still recalls that Christmas as a huge hit! A few
Use what you already have and allow kids/others to play in your closet to come up with creative styles and have a fashion show. Be silly and enjoy the moments.
Read: It is fun to read the Christmas
The point is that the holidays are truly not about the perfect gift nor the perfect decor, food, games, etc. It is about making memories that last a lifetime. Remember the true reason for the season. That an amazing God chose to send His Son as a tiny baby to the lowliest of all to show His incredible love for us.
May you have the merriest of all Christmases!
Story or the History of Christmas aloud. By doing this, your kids learn the patterns of reading and how readers read. Take turns reading by volunteers so that each person contributes. You can even print out or write out sayings, thoughts or scriptures to be read aloud. 23
Historic Downtown Ruston walkerandco318.com
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KASEY STRINGER
HOSTESS with the MOSTESS:
Winter WEDDINGS WRITTEN BY JESSICA COMEGYS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JARRETT WARREN
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Cozy fire pits, dining family style, a reason to wear your grandmothers fancy fur stole! Some say winter is the most wonderful time of year, and if you agree, it may be wedding season for you.
A
n outdoor winter wedding might seem like a challenge, but it actually presents quite a special sweet spot, especially in the south. So many couples are intimidated by the weather factor in the winter that they miss out on a great opportunity. How many times have you enjoyed a perfect patio day in the middle of November? Or had a beautiful sunny day in January that would be perfect for cozying up with warm Irish coffee in that stunning coat you never get to wear?
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Perks
What are the of an outdoor winter wedding?
O
ne of the major benefits of opting for a winter wedding day is that they are more unusual, so you have a more unique aesthetic already built into your wedding ceremony and reception. It also gives couples the opportunity to create a cozy setting for guests which means there’s no need to shorten the celebration. In fact, the cooler weather can encourage people to stay on the dance floor and keep your party going strong as they’ll be less likely to overheat and need a break from the fun. › More perks include: unique flower options, affordability, more available dates, and lower travel cost.
Choosing flowers that are available in seasonal colors (dark pink, burgundy, white, green, red) will add ambience to any winter themed wedding. And although winter isn’t known for being a top season for flowers, that’s actually not true—there
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are several gorgeous options that bloom during this time of year. Berries, pine cones, dusty miller, and eucalyptus are some of the most popular accents for winter wedding bouquets and centerpieces. Be sure to consult with your wedding florist to figure out exactly which flowers are in your budget and available for your date. Some of the most popular winter wedding flowers include: Anemones, Amaryllis, Roses, Lilies, Ranunculus, Paperwhites and Poinsettias Don’t forget about the greenery wedding decor. Fresh evergreens and eucalyptus will bring a cozy (and fragrant) element to your venue and can cost less than many flowers. Maybe even a touch of mistletoe? Place a sprig at your ceremony altar or hang it above your seats at the reception. It will give you and your brand new spouse an extra-sweet reason to share a kiss—as if you really needed one!
serving a family style wedding Serve dinner P dinner is that it makes your guest feeling
robably the best part about
Family style!
like, well family! Reception tables can be a little awkward, especially for those guest sitting next to people they’ve never met. But passing platters and serving seconds across the table with one another is a great way to inspire conversation, warm things up and break the ice. It sounds simple, but it’s true — the act of physically sharing a meal with someone makes getting to know them so much easier. Who knows, this may lead to a more populated dance floor! Family style is also a great value, because you get all the appeal of the food served at the table without having to pay a full service staff to plate each individual course for 100 people. With most couples opting for passed entrees or buffet service, choosing this unconventional option will give your wedding that much more style and uniqueness, and will give the guests that sense that you really though out the overall experience at your wedding.
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WIN TER W Between
Holidays
inter’s got a lot going on! Here are a few dates to keep in mind: Thanksgiving and › Hanukkah – December Valentine’s Day, there’s a bunch of › Kwanzaa – December holidays you’ll need to work around. › Christmas – December 25 While a New Year’s Eve wedding sounds › New Year’s Eve – December 31 oh-so magical, many of your guests may › New Year’s Day – January 1 already have their own plans. And we › Martin Luther King Jr. Day – the third Monday of January don’t recommend a Christmas wedding › Super Bowl Sunday – typically the first weekend in February for obvious reasons.
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Working with What’s in
Season
W you get food and flowers at
hen you buy what’s in season,
the peak of their supply when costs are normally lower. Plus, when they’re locally grown they don’t need to be shipped halfway around the globe. So not only do you save money, but you also reduce your carbon footprint. Win-win. What better way to keep your guests warm and cozy than with good oldfashioned comfort food? Luckily, winter produce is full of starchy goodness: sweet potatoes, parsnips, and all manner of squash. Roasted root vegetables and steaming bowls of spicy gumbo will no doubt make everyone happy. For dessert, there’s no better way to treat your guests than to offer a hot cocoa bar, with a spiked option of course. Also, consider warm sweet potato pie, pecan pies, and gingerbread as an alternative (or addition to!) your wedding cake.
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Outdoor
Rentals
32
W
ith so many beautiful options out there these days, there’s no reason not to have an outdoor reception! Our friends at Pelican Tents & Events provided this beautiful clear tent that we were able to see the stars and the moonlight through once the sun went down. Heaters, string lights, chandeliers… everything you need to make a cozy magical evening.
One Skillet Apple Cider Chicken
1½ pounds of chicken thighs, about 4 thighs (bone in and skin on)* 1½ tablespoons of olive oil 3⁄4 cup of apple cider 2 apples (I used 1 granny smith and 1 gala apple)** 2 teaspoons Fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon of dried (can swap for rosemary if desired) 1 medium sweet onion, cut into half inch pieces 1 teaspoon of garlic powder 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into bite sized chunks about ½ inch thick 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (I used whole grain dijon) 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 4 tablespoons of water (or more apple cider)
• Stir in the apples and cook for an additional 3 minutes. • Add in onion thyme, and garlic powder. Stir to combine and cook for an additonal few minutes. • Mix in the apple cider and mustard making sure to mix it well and cover everything in the pan with the cider. Making little wells in the skillet, add the chicken back in, cover, and cook for an additional few minutes. • Remove chicken and add in the cornstarch slurry. Mix thoroughly and let sit for a couple minutes to thicken the sauce. • Divide into 4 servings, topping the chicken and veggies with the sauce, and ENJOY!!
NOTES
* You can swap this thighs for chicken breasts if you would, but note that it will likely • In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium change the cooking time a bit. Make sure to high heat. Add in the chicken thighs and temperature check your chicken to ensure it brown for 5-7 minutes per side depending is cooked through. on the size of your chicken. Remove from ** I tried this with and without the skin on the skillet and place on a plate covered with apples and preferred it with the skin OFF. It’s foil. The chicken will cook a bit more while just a little prettier with the skin on :) it rests. Prep Time: 15 minutes • Turn the heat down to medium and add Cook Time: 15 minutes in the sweet potato chunks. Cook for 3 minutes.
INSTRUCTIONS
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(318) 861-0100 4801 Line Ave. • Shreveport
S N O I S S E F N CO NNEY
E TON D Y A P Y NB
E
WRITT
o C c i g r o v e R a o
t i m fo
ast fall I ordered a sweater pill shaver to revamp several of my favorite over-worn outfits. The Amazon package arrived before I returned home from work, so it was opened in my absence. That evening, I found the device sitting next to my toothbrush. The following day both my husband and my youngest child, on separate occasions, asked me if I had the opportunity to use my mustache trimmer. Neither understood why I was offended by the question. Apparently, my self-awareness level needs some work. The trouble with me is that I have never worried about how I look or pressed my weirdness down so that it’s hidden from sight. I tried it a few times in an effort to fit into a socially desirable group, but my true self weighed too much to be held down. She’s always back there, peering over my shoulder, involved in the conversation at hand. We’re like conjoined twins, I guess. I don’t recall having a choice in the matter. She’s stronger than the outside shell that the world sees, therefore she gets to call the shots. Sometimes that’s embarrassing. My middle school years were rough. There was a bully. He said ugly things— out loud; other people laughed. I’m sure that killed my mother emotionally, but she never gave it any energy. She let my sister deliver the advice. “Alright, Payton. What is it about him that is goofy or weird?” Me: “I don’t know. Nothing really.” Shayne (annoyed): “Oh please. There HAS to be something about him that’s 36
embarrassing. Think.” Me (sheepishly): “I guess he does have large ears that stick out.” Shayne (victoriously!): “YES! That’s it. Next time he makes fun of you, call him Dumbo. That’ll shut him up.” Shayne is four years older than me. I believed that she had the magic I needed to fix this situation. A few days later, the insult came. People laughed. Dumbo was rightfully addressed. People laughed harder. The b u l l y i n g stopped. And so, I survived middle school understanding that people who feel badly about themselves seek out perceived w e a k e r people to deflect the negative energy toward. Dumbo had underestimated me. Worse, he had underestimated my support group. It was his mistake. In hindsight, it is apparent that this was the time when my conjoined twin decided to wake up. By the time I got to
high school, my “give a damn” was busted straight down the middle. I never subscribed to the drama of girl groups and settled for hanging with the boys. They were less complicated, and I liked the fact that I didn’t have to gossip in order to hold a conversation with them. My membership in their group was not popular with my female classmates, but I was too busy having fun to care. My first group of girlfriends adopted me in college. They helped me through some of the ugliest trials of my life. They also taught me what healthy female relationships look like. So when I became an adult, assembling a girl tribe to help me raise my babies and vent about spousal annoyances was easy. My true self and I have made it this far in life with some incredible friendships. I won’t say that I’ve run with the popular crowd or have been invited to all the parties I’ve wanted to attend, but my life is authentic and full of joy. My middle school bestie sends me greeting cards monthly even though I never send her any. She’s an Anesthesiologist in Lexington, Kentucky. If anyone doesn’t have time to send handwritten greeting cards, it’s her. But she sends them anyway, understands that I’m the jerk who won’t respond, and reaches out for a meeting when she’s in town. There’s no agenda with our friendship. After college, the prom king decided he liked me enough to put a ring on it. And despite my mustache, he still decides to come home each night after 17 years of marriage. My girl tribes check in periodically to determine whether my mental health needs an intervention. My sister still secretly hates Dumbo. With all this history and support, you would think that I would never get hijacked by the urge to belong, but I do. It happens most often when it involves my kids. I’m comfortable in my own skin. I don’t need everyone to like me, but I need 37
my kids to be accepted. I need them to be happy and feel self-assured because I know how fantastic they are. It’s painful as a parent to witness the self-doubt caused by exclusion from groups in which they desire to belong. Daily, many of us fight the urge to interfere in the engineering of our kids’ friendships. But each time I get the urge, I think back to my mother’s reaction to my middle school experience. There wasn’t one. She let me fight my own battle, and I won. When we interfere in the natural process of friendship selection, we are robbing our children of their ability to cope with rejection. We are encouraging their urge to subdue their true self. The tragedy in that hiding is that the most beautiful elements of who they are live in that space. They need to learn how to safely show that beauty to the world. And as much as I hate it, rejection is part of the process. True friendship doesn’t need a social media presence. It doesn’t require an entry fee. It doesn’t ask what your parents do for a living. It doesn’t save embarrassing photos of you. It doesn’t ask you to compromise your morals or subdue your goofy laugh. True friendship notices your absence from school and calls to check on your well-being. It discretely notifies you that your lunch is stuck in your braces. It brings your favorite candy to lunch to share from her Halloween stash. It thinks twice about posting pictures on social media that would make you feel excluded. In this social media obsessed world, it is easy to feel self-conscious or left out. It’s as easy as picking
up your phone. But social media can also be a place to find answers as long as you ask the right questions. When I inquired about fitting in and why we feel that it’s so important that we are willing to compromise our true selves to attain it, my friend Casey answered with this. “I feel like the best way to deal with feeling uninvited is to invite. Excluded? Then include. If that doesn’t work, then maybe the circle from which you feel left out isn’t for you.” She goes on to say that it’s important to pay attention to the people around us already. Perhaps we are overlooking the ones who really care and are actually “our people.” Lastly, if that doesn’t work, she suggests getting involved. “It’s easier to make friends over a common interest, so sign up for stuff. Keep putting yourself out there and keep being yourself. Some people will like you, others won’t. That’s ok as long as you like yourself.” I couldn’t help but notice that she never mentioned any parental interference. The journey to lasting, authentic relationships cannot be engineered by an outside party. It’s created solely by the people
With all this history and support, you would think that I would never get hijacked by the urge to belong, but I do.
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involved. That’s solid advice for kids and adults alike. Quit trying to hide your twin because she’ll show up eventually, and she’s fabulous. Reality is what my mama taught me from as early as I can remember. She said, “you can count your true friends on one hand.” That has been my life experience. Conforming in order to fit into a group of conformists won’t create lasting friendships because the group is comprised of people shells. Dare to be yourself and then step back to watch your tribe emerge. In the meantime, I’ll be consulting my sister about this mustache.
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d an
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KayBaby’s Bloody Marys are the perfect consistency for blending smoothly with your favorite vodka. Not too thick and the perfect amount of spice. Kay’s custom labels with the story of her business and pretty packaging make it the perfect gift for all “bloody” lovers on your list! - Natalie Smith @KaybabysFoods | kaybabys.com
INDIVIDUALIZED, COMFORTABLE CARE
REMAINS THE TOP PRIORITY FOR SHREVEPORT AREA OB-GYN PATIENTS
WK Pierremont OB-GYN Specialists is committed to providing innovative, advanced, and safe surgical procedures paired with comforts thoughtfully planned around patient needs.
P
ersonal attention is what women want and deserve from their obstetrician or gynecologist. That is what we offer at WK Pierremont OB-GYN Specialists. We provide healthcare to women throughout all seasons of life, from adolescence to childbirth through menopause and beyond. We specialize in all areas of general OBGYN care including management of low risk and high risk pregnancies. All of our physicians are trained in minimally invasive gynecologic surgical techniques including robotic surgery. Our practice is dedicated to being on the leading edge of medicine and providing individualized care for each of our patients.
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We have several new beginnings and procedures that our practice is looking forward to for the new year. The Nest is the new obstetrics program at WillisKnighton. Our practice is excited to be a part of the launch of this exciting new program at WK Pierremont Health Center. The Nest, which will open in early 2022, will provide a comprehensive approach to pregnancy, delivery, and your parenting experience. Unique features of The Nest will include spacious all-in-one rooms designed for labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery, luxurious private bathrooms with spa-like amenities, and a gourmet celebration meal too. We are pleased that our patients will be able to remain in the same room for their entire stay with us. This will allow for a more comfortable experience for both our patient and her supporting family and friends who visit during this special time. Each detail of the design has been thoughtfully planned with the expectant mother and family in mind. Innovation is important, and we’re pleased to be the exclusive provider of an in-office procedure for stress urinary incontinence. Many women struggle with stress urinary incontinence that occurs during exercising, laughing, coughing, or changing position. Bulkamid® is a soft, smooth hydrogel consisting of urethral bulking agents injected in the urethral wall to help with the treatment of urinary incontinence. It’s a short procedure performed in the office (about 10 to 15 minutes) with no downtime. We are seeing excellent results with our patients who have undergone this procedure and are excited to provide this quick solution to women. Gynecologic surgery is an integral aspect of our practice. Each of our physicians is trained in minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotic surgery. Minimally invasive surgery can provide patients the opportunity to have surgery and be discharged the same day to begin her recovery in the comfort of her own home. Many patients find the recovery process after minimally invasive surgery to be more manageable in the short term while still obtaining the same long-term result as traditional gynecologic surgery techniques. WK Pierremont OB-GYN Specialists strives to provide advanced and safe surgical solutions to our patients. All of the physicians at WK Pierremont OB-GYN Specialists have strong ties to Northwest Louisiana. We are honored and excited to be serving the women of our community and look forward to continuing our tradition of providing excellent care for many years to come. 41
Ricky Paul, MD | Erin M. Gullatt, MD | Marty Mayfield, NP | Jeffery J. Hebert, MD Hollie B. McCart, MD | Lise M. Huddleston, MD | Lauren E. McCalmont, MD
As specialists in women’s care we pledge: • Fast, prompt appointments • Friendly, welcoming attitude • People who listen and spend time with you • Leading edge care and technology We deliver the care you want and deserve. Call us or request an appointment online. Advanced Robotic Surgery • In-Office Procedures • Menopause Management Full Spectrum Obstetric Care • 3D/4D Ultrasound • Aesthetic Services
8001 Youree Drive, Suite 600 | (318) 212-3890 | pierremontobgyn.com
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Some superheroes wear capes …
SOME WEAR BANDAIDS.
Our kids deserve to be protected, too. THE COVID-19 VACCINE IS SAFE FOR CHILDREN. The CDC has recommended that all children ages 5 and up get vaccinated against COVID-19. The vaccines have proven to be safe and effective in children as young as 5 years old. The vaccine is so safe that the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) urge all eligible people to get the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it is available to them. When your child gets vaccinated against COVID-19, they also have a better chance at staying in school and participating in the activities they enjoy.
“This vaccine for children has passed rigorous clinical trials and is safe – just like the other common vaccines we recommend our children receive.” DR. WANDA THOMAS PROFESSOR OF PEDIATRICS, LSU Health Shreveport
“These vaccines are as safe and as effective as any vaccines we’ve ever had for any disease.” DR. MARK KLINE PHYSICIAN-IN-CHIEF AND PEDIATRICIAN, Children’s Hospital New Orleans
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GET THE FACTS: visit ldh.la.gov/kidsvax or call the Vaccine Hotline at 1-855-453-0774
THE COVID-19 VACCINE IS NOW RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN AGES 5 AND UP The FDA has authorized and the CDC now recommends the COVID vaccine for emergency use in children ages 5-11, following a rigorous review of the data.
YOU’VE PROBABLY GOT A LOT OF QUESTIONS. WE’RE HERE TO HELP. Our most recent COVID surge was fueled by the highly transmissible Delta variant and had a devastating impact on Louisianans, including children. Should kids get a COVID-19 vaccine? Yes. The COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect kids from getting infected with COVID-19.
Are there any side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine? Like many vaccines, COVID-19 vaccines can cause mild, short-term side effects, like a sore arm, body aches, headache, a fever, or tiredness for a day or two. These are signs that the immune system is responding to the vaccine and building immunity to the virus. What are other serious effects of COVID-19?
Are COVID-19 vaccines safe for kids? All studies done show that COVID-19 vaccines are safe for kids. A vaccine goes through intensive testing before people can get it. Millions of U.S. kids have already received their safe and effective vaccine. Why should we vaccinate healthy children? Having your child vaccinated against the virus will help prevent them from getting severe COVID-19 disease. Although COVID-19 in children is often milder than in adults, some children can get severe lung infections, become very sick and need hospital care. The shot makes them stronger and better able to fight off the virus if they come in contact with it.
Since the beginning of August, 25% of all new COVID-19 cases in Louisiana were in children. LDH reported 9 pediatric deaths tied to the fourth surge alone. A total of 18 children in Louisiana have died of COVID since the pandemic began. Are children at risk of getting COVID-19? As of November 1, at least 94 children ages 5 to 11 have died of COVID-19 since the pandemic began, and 8,300 have become so sick they needed to be hospitalized, according to the FDA. In fact, COVID was the eighth-leading cause of death in the age group over the past year, after accidents, cancer, malformations, murder, heart disease, chronic lower respiratory disease, and flu or pneumonia.
Some children that had only mild symptoms went on to develop multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a serious condition in which the immune system goes haywire and starts attacking otherwise healthy parts of the body. Children with MIS-C often become severely sick and require hospitalization. MIS-C is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 13. Since July 1 of this year, 107 cases of MIS-C have occurred in Louisiana children. (Nationally, by early October, 5,217 kids had come down with MIS-C, including 2,034 between 6 and 11, according to the CDC.) Can kids get the COVID vaccine at the same time as their annual immunizations? Yes. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) supports kids getting routine immunizations at the same time they get a COVID-19 vaccine, including the flu shot.
Getting your children vaccinated can help protect them against COVID-19, as well as reduce disruptions to in-person learning and activities by helping curb community transmission. We know parents and families want to make the best decision for their children. And we know that families have questions – that’s good! Talk to your doctor or other healthcare provider today about the shot and to make an appointment. To find a nearby vaccination location, go to www.vaccines.gov, call Louisiana’s COVID-19 Vaccine Hotline at 855-453-0774, or visit ldh.la.gov/kidsvax.
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Children’s Christmas Books WITH LOUISIANA FLAIR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CALLIE HEARNSBERGER CARTER WITH CALLIE JO PHOTOGRAPHY
Christmas is the most magical time of the year. We look forward to the lights, the decorations, the gifts, the celebrations. For every age, there is no denying the joy that this season brings.
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O
ne of the most beloved holiday traditions is snuggling up with a cup of hot chocolate
to read a favorite Christmas book with the kiddos. Lucky for us, the great state of Louisiana has its own collection of Christmas favorites that spice up the culture and fun of the holiday season.
The Legend of Papa Noel WRITTEN BY TERRI HOOVER DUNHAM
A
round the world Santa Claus has many names. But in a deep, swampy bayou of Louisiana, he’s known as Papa Noël. In such a hot and humid place, there can be no sleds or reindeer, so Papa Noël rides the river in a boat that’s pulled by eight alligators, with a snowy white one named Nicollette in the lead. On this particular Christmas Eve, it’s so foggy on the river that even Nicollette’s magical glowing-green eyes may not be enough to guide Papa Noël. The alligators are tired, grumpy and bruised from banging into cypress trees, and Papa is desperate to get all the gifts to the little children. Well, “quicker than a snake shimmies down the river,” the clever Cajun people come up with a solution that saves the day.
Santa is Coming to Louisiana
I
WRITTEN BY STEVE SMALLMAN
t’s Christmas Eve. Have you been good? Santa’s packed up all the presents and is headed your way! With the help of a certain red-nosed reindeer, Santa flies over many landmarks in Louisiana! “Ho, ho, ho!” laughs Santa. “Merry Christmas, Louisiana!”
Santa’s Sleigh is on its way to Louisiana
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WRITTEN BY ERIC JAMES
t’s a magical Christmas Eve, and all the children in your town are sleeping. Well, all the children but you! How could you possibly fall asleep when you know Santa and his sleigh are on their way?
Gaston the GreenNosed Alligator WRITTEN BY JAMES RICE
U
nprepared for his yearly trek because of a series of problems, a perplexed Santa sees Gaston in flightsuddenly the friendly alligator is employed to help save Christmas Eve. Gaston, the intrepid, green-nosed alligator from the bayou, ventures far and wide to satisfy his wanderlust. Gaston’s creator, James Rice, wrote and illustrated nine books featuring the friendly swamp creature.
The Cajun Night Before Christmas WRITTEN BY “TROSCLAIR”
T
he well-loved Christmas classic “The Night Before Christmas” with a Cajun twist, The Cajun Night Before Christmas has been a part of Louisiana’s holiday traditions since it was first published. Now, more than forty-five years later, it continues to be must have in the homes of Louisiana children.
The Cajun Night After Christmas WRITTEN BY AMY DIXON
D
rifting down the bayou the night after Christmas, Boudreau discovers a fat alligator named Pierre, whom he takes home as a pet. The Boudreau children give Pierre their full attention, much to Pierre’s dismay, but in the end, it’s a very happy Cajun night after Christmas all through the year!
The Twelve Days of Christmas in Louisiana WRITTEN BY JEAN CASSELS
R
osalie is sending her cousin Paul a ticket to come to Louisiana for the twelve days of Christmas—and that’s a very special time there, because Christmas doesn’t really end in New Orleans until Twelfth Night, January 6th. And that very same evening, Carnival, with its joyful parades and gorgeous costumes, begins. 47
OPEN HOUSE
Tuesday Jan. 25 9am-1pm & 5:30-6:30pm
It All Begins Here Preschool 2 through 8th Grade Episcopal School
Call 318-221-7454 for more information or visit www.StMarksSchool.com
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Uptown Shopping Center 5802 Line Avenue Shreveport
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DIY Outdoor Christmas Gifts SUPPLIES NEEDED: › Different sized cube shape boxes › Wrapping paper › Double sided tape › An icepick › Rebars INSPIRED BY THATVILLAGEHOUSE.BLOGSPOT.COM
This easy Christmas DIY will add a fun, festive look to your front porch this holiday season! 1. Start with three different sized boxes. Ideally nine‑, twelve‑ and fifteen‑ inch cubes have the best effect. TIP: You can use as many boxes as you would like as long as they are all different sizes.
2. Use an ice pick to punch holes in the top and bottom of each of them so that you can run a piece of rebar through them. (It’s easier to do the holes first, before getting them all wrapped pretty.) For the smaller boxes, slightly off center your holes, so that the boxes can tilt on each other. 3. Wrap your boxes TIP: Keep your wrapping paper pattern running the same direction.
TIP: Before you poke holes through the paper, put a little tape on it. It will help the paper from ripping.
4. Add your ribbon and bow. TIP: Make sure your seams are down the middle of the boxes so ribbon will cover them up. TIP: Use double-sided tape to hold the ribbon and bows in place.
5. Place your rebar through the bottom of the largest box and through the top two boxes. 6. You can stack your presents flat or place them in topiaries to give a larger effect. TIP: Make sure your project is displayed in a covered area away from moisture.
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Winter is Coming Holiday Travel: Beaver Creek WRITTEN BY LORI YOKEM
erhaps a slightly overused phrase, thanks to Game of Thrones, “Winter is Coming” and we sure hope it is nothing like last winter! We southerners are not prepared to deal with snow and ice like our friends in the West. Instead, let us gaze our wanderlust on going to the snow this time, instead of the snow coming to us! Whisk yourself away to the winter wonderland ski resort known as Beaver Creek. Located 10 miles away from Vail, this small ski resort packs a more personal touch to its bigger brother, Vail. In fact, both ski resorts are covered under the same lift ticket, and you can technically ski at both mountains during your vacation. Now, let us turn our attention over to
HOW TO GET THERE
Beaver Creek. Beaver Creek Ski Resort gains the respect of many ski critics by being deemed one of the best ski schools in America for children and adults. Because of the wide range of amenities this little mountain town has to offer, I will be taking my children here to ski in 2022 for the 4th season in a row.
WHERE TO STAY
I highly recommend flying directly into Eagle-Vail You cannot go wrong by booking your lodging directly Airport. The I-70 corridor between Beaver Creek through www.beavercreek.com. Many of the condos and Denver International Airport is a coin you don’t available for rent on their website offer Dollar Ride want to toss. Even with perfect weather, there could be shuttles within the village and make getting around very a wreck or hours of Denver traffic heading to do the convenient. The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek is ski-in/skisame thing as you; ski. On a winter weather day, you out and located right next to the Kids Ski School, how could even be looking at road closures and/or more convenient! The Westin Riverfront in Avon also offers traffic. Flying into Eagle Airport, you’re just 28 miles a gondola from their hotel in Avon to the ski resort, as from Beaver Creek, located near the town of Avon, well as shuttle service directly up to the Beaver Creek Colorado. American Airlines has several direct flights Village, if you have little ones to drop off at ski school. a day from Dallas-Fort Worth International and United The Ritz Carlton-Bachelor Gulch is also part of the Airlines has connections through Houston and Denver Beaver Creek Resort, but not located in or near the (time it perfectly for the Shreveport-Denver-Eagle Village. It is 4 miles in separation, but also includes Flight). Delta also operates to Eagle-Vail seasonally. shuttles to the main Beaver Creek Village, or you can After arriving at the airport, you have the option to ski/snowboard over to the village. Carlton-Bachelor Gulch is or also part of the Beaver Creek Resort, but not located in or near the Village. It rentThe a carRitz or take a shuttle to your hotel condo. is 4 miles in separation, but also includes shuttles to the main Beaver Creek Village, or you can ski/snowboard over to the more village. For information on taking shuttles, visit: www. epicmountainexpress.com
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
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>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> DINING OUT
When it comes to Restaurants, Beaver Creek and the town of Avon do not disappoint.
Hooked | I know Colorado is landlocked but trust me when I say this sushi is FRESH. Specialty cocktails and sushi rolls make this place my favorite lunch spot. They offer a kidfriendly menu as well. Located in the Beaver Creek Village. Blue Moose Pizza | Known for the best pizza in the village. Order early or be prepared for a long wait considering this is the only pizza joint located in the Beaver Creek Village. 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill | Try to grab a table here for Apres Ski. What is Apres Ski? A French term for After Ski activities, which in this case is eating a before-dinner appetizer (or two) and enjoying a delicious cocktail. It usually begins at 3 p.m. and runs until 6 p.m. (How dare I even give Apres Ski such a time restraint!). This restaurant is located in the Park Hyatt which is conveniently directly in front of the pickup location for Children’s Ski School. WYLD | This restaurant is located in the Ritz Carlton and serves up delicious lunches and dinners. Reservations are encouraged on Open Table. For a quick lunch, my son and I like to ski over to the outdoor area of this restaurant for lunch. I grab a cup of Elk Chili and he gets the hot dog. We rest our legs for a moment before taking off again to explore the Arrowhead side of Beaver Creek. Maya | Modern Mexican flair & located inside the Westin, this is the most delicious Mexican Cuisine in the Valley. Reservations are encouraged on Open Table. Try the Crab & Shrimp enchiladas. Craftsman | This restaurant is located in the town of Edwards, which is 6 miles from Beaver Creek Village. The most casual of all of my picks, this counter-service restaurant has the juiciest burgers and to die for truffle fries.
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LIFT TICKETS AND EQUIPMENT RENTALS
Beavercreek.com is a one-stop shop for those who like simplicity. You can purchase your lift tickets, sign your kids up for ski school, reserve equipment, all on one simple website. Other equipment rental companies include Christy Sports, Ski Butlers, and Sun & Ski Sports. Advance reservations are recommended.
>>>>>>>>>>>>> LET’S WRAP IT ALL UP
What sets Beaver Creek Ski Resort apart from all of the other ski resorts and towns in Colorado? It’s Candy Cabin, which is exactly what the name implies: a cabin full of candy to purchase located on the mountain, but you have to ski to it. This gives my children SO much incentive! It’s the warm chocolate chip cookies that are given out at the base of the mountain beginning at 3:30 p.m. every day to conclude “a fantastic ski day.” Yet, another incentive! The people who work on this mountain are some of the friendliest folks you’ll ever meet. If you need any help at all planning, please give Beaver Creek Customer service a call at (970) 754-4636. I have called many times and they have always been very helpful.
Wishing you a week full of fresh powder and blue skies when you decide to try my favorite ski resort. ~Lori 56
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BEAUTY Redefining Unreachable Standards
WRITTEN BY FELECIA WILLIAMS OWNER OF MY SPA MY WAY
Not their way but Our way
W
hether it is through advertisements or social media, women are increasingly exposed to photoshopped pictures, air-brushed faces, and injected bodies. Society has always had unrealistic expectations concerning beauty, but now beauty has been redefined with unreachable standards. I still ask myself daily how or why God put me here? I know He created us all with gifts, a purpose and a calling, but Lord sometimes, I feel one of us isn’t listening or just refuses to answer. Many people think My Spa My Way stems from me wanting things my way. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Growing up, beauty wasn’t even a word that crossed my mind. When looking in a mirror, all I could conceive of beauty was thin, light-complexioned, long hair and a soft-spoken voice - none
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of which described me. All those things described one person: my sister. Everyone called her beautiful, smart and poised. I wanted so badly just to be seen, just to be called anything besides De’Edra’s little sister or Frank Williams’ other daughter. Having a tall, thin and beautiful mother who was smart, educated and looked like a model didn’t make the journey any easier. I would say thank you for my half-bald, round-bellied, well-dressed father, but hell even he is good-looking…again beautiful just not a word to describe me. My first introduction to the beauty industry was applying for a job in the shoe department at the Maison Blanche Department Store in Baton Rouge during college. I applied for what I knew. My mother had a shoe boutique growing up and that’s what I knew how to sell. I
received a call after my interview asking if I had ever considered working in the cosmetics department. My first thought was they called the wrong applicant. They must be looking for holiday stock help for the makeup department. It never crossed my mind they wanted me to wear one of those uniforms, stand behind a makeup counter and sell beauty products. How could they? I didn’t even know how to apply makeup, nevertheless, talk about it with women who were just as lost as I was. Clinique Cosmetics was introducing its line of new products for women of color. They were interviewing women of color because let’s be honest, when you
walked through a makeup department then, I never saw anyone who looked like me. I was terrified to even interview, and never thought I would or could be hired. After working many years in the business and so desperately struggling to be seen, or simply viewed as an equal, I began to evolve. Learning that so many women struggled with the same ailment, the same disappointment and hurt, that pain fueled my awakening. They strived to achieve the same goal, just running a different race. The prize at the end was to feel beautiful, to feel accepted, and the gold medal was to feel loved. Regardless of size, shape, color or net worth, we all were running the same race. Fast forward several years I was introduced into the spa world after wanting to grow in my industry. I had become comfortable with size and my body. I decided to plan a romantic getaway with my now ex-husband. I chose one of the nicest spas in Dallas. As we entered the beautiful facility and approached the reception desk we were greeted with a shocking look and a partial smile. The young lady asked how she could help us while looking confused. We stated that we had a couples massage scheduled. She quickly asked if we had massages before and if we were comfortable changing into robes. Immediately I realized that no one else had been asked either question. Once taken back to the locker rooms I overheard an employee comment that she hoped we brought our own robes. Holding my breath, I hoped the other guest hadn’t heard the comment. Once in the room they had one portable table that had to be added to the room so we could both be in the same room. The table didn’t look too sturdy but I dare not say a word for fear of bringing more
At that moment, I promised myself I would never let anyone treat me like I didn’t matter simply because of my size or body type again. attention to the situation. Only a few minutes into the service, I felt my table wobbling. Before I could ask, down I went. I fell right underneath my date’s massage table. He opened his eyes and there I lay humiliated and embarrassed. The therapist said very clearly I must have not locked the table correctly. Not an apology or concern for me. My date asked both therapists to leave the room. He wiped the tears from my eyes and reassured me I was just as beautiful on the floor as lying next to him on the table with a smile. At that moment, I promised myself I would never let anyone treat me like I didn’t matter simply because of my size or body type again. I didn’t look or fit the industry standard and that would no longer affect my self worth. This experience began my dream for My Spa My Way. I would create a place that is loving and considerate to everyone. We all deserve to feel beautiful. Plus size is not a trend or fade it’s my LIFE. After many years in the beauty business, I have learned it’s so much more than a business, it’s a feeling. A feeling of one’s self, inside and out. Media would have you believe beauty is from the outside in. This message has conditioned women to believe the core inside holds no value to one’s mere outer shell. This is the constantly delivered message from beauty and media executives to all women. Ladies, stop listening and start redefining the industry instead of allowing it to define you. This realization began the birth of My Spa My Way. Once I decided I was not my weight, not my diagnosis of ADD or my depression my beauty began to be realized. Yes, I was loud. Yes, I was
direct and straightforward. And yes, I struggled to focus mentally, but I was still the definition of my beauty. My beauty shops at stores for doubledigit-sized women. My beauty has fat rolls in places that shouldn’t roll. My beauty takes Prozac and my beauty thanks God that He reminds me every day that my beauty matters. I wanted all women to have that safe place, that sanctuary where they can come to acknowledge and remember themselves and affirm that their beauty matters to the world, but most of all, it matters to yourself. My Spa My Way has massage beds, tables, chairs, nail stations and anything else, custom-made for all sizes. It’s about letting everyone set the standard, not just a few. This standard requires the beauty industry and other places to welcome and accept the many different aspects of beauty. Just like realizing that ultimately, your beauty is defined by you and you alone. The choice of who helps to safeguard and nurture that beauty can be made by no one else. My journey, which began years ago, led me to create My Spa My Way as a testament to true beauty. I hope that your path will lead you to My Spa My Way and you allow us the privilege to serve you in your lasting beauty because it’s the beauty you created because you deserve it. Stop settling for subpar acceptance. Going to places where the spa robes don’t fit. These places where it feels like you’re squeezed into the chair or where you are treated like your dollar isn’t valued. My Spa My Way isn’t a place, it’s a mindset. Set your mind to believe you deserve life your way, and that’s the My Spa My Way meaning. 61
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THE GENETIC KEY TO
Precision Weight Management
Are you confused about the numerous diets on the marketplace? For example:
Ketogenic, Paleolithic/Primal Blueprint, Mediterranean, DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), MIND (mix of DASH and the Mediterranean), Gluten-Free, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, The Zone, Vegetarian, Vegan, Raw Food, Flexitarian, Pescetarian, Nutritarian, South Beach, Weight Watchers, Low-Fat, Low-Carbohydrate, Low-Calorie, Whole 30, Ornish, TLC (Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes), Mayo Clinic, Volumetrics, HMR (Home Meal Replacement), Biggest Loser, CICO (Calories In Calories Out), Dukan, and etc…
T
here are literally thousands of diets. Some are for losing weight, while others are for gaining weight, lowering cholesterol, controlling blood sugar, controlling blood pressure, living a long and healthful life, and many other reasons, i.e., auto-immunity/anti-inflammatory and etc. What if your genetics played a role in your overall health? What would you choose to eat? Would this make a difference in how you live your life? Many people try different diets and with varying degrees of success. Some get great results. Others throw up their hands. Have you ever wondered why certain diets work for some but not all people? There is a scientific rationale, and it may absolutely be influenced by your genes. My father and mother-in-law passed away with heart disease and dementia. What if I could have made a difference in the outcomes? One of my patients is an athlete. He recently struggled with weight loss. In the athletic arena, there is the high carbohydrate/low-fat group. Then, there is the low carbohydrate/ high fat group. Or let’s eat a lot of protein and no carbohydrates or fats.
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Are you worried about silent heart disease or stroke? • Heart disease (heart attack and/or stroke) is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States. • One person dies every 36 seconds in the United States from cardiovascular disease. • In the United States, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds. • About 1 in 5 heart attacks are silent—the damage is done, but the person is not aware of it. • Someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds; and every 4 minutes, someone dies of stroke. • Stroke is a leading cause of serious long-term disability. Stroke reduces mobility in more than half of stroke survivors age 65 and over. • Concerned about dementia or Alzheimer’s disease? • Someone in the world develops dementia every 3 seconds. • More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. By 2050, this number is projected to rise to nearly 13 million. • And, in the U.S. Alzheimer’s and dementia deaths have increased 16% during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
WRITTEN BY DR. KAREN PENDLETON
Well, in my studies the last two years, I learned about some interesting genetic studies. • The Heart Attack Gene • Atrial Fibrillation Gene • APOE Gene (Apolipoprotein E) While the heart attack gene is important, the genetic test which interested me was the APOE gene. On a simple level, there are three groups: APOE2, APOE 3 and APOE4. Most people (60 - 75%) are APOE3. And so, maintaining a balanced healthy diet, like the Mediterranean diet, is the
acceptable choice for this group. The challenge involves individuals with APOE2 (~5%) and APOE4 (~20%). An APOE2 person requires a relatively high fat (30% - 35%) /low carbohydrate diet. My athlete’s genotype is APOE2. A high carbohydrate diet does not benefit him and creates increased inflammation. After starting a healthy and relatively high fat / low carbohydrate diet, he lost six pounds in one week. And, he had a significant improvement in his energy level.
The APOE4 person is more complex. These individuals need to watch their fat intake, thus limiting healthy fats to no more than 20% of the daily caloric intake. Here is an example: With 1,500 calories a day, the fat intake should not exceed 300 calories. Also, APOE4 individuals need to be vigilant about foods that cause inflammation, including the elimination of alcohol. This APOE4 group can be at higher risk for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
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What if I had known this sooner? Could I have made a difference in the outcome for my father and mother-in-law? But, now I have the tools to help other people. If you know your genetics, then the changes you make in your lifestyle can have a great impact on your overall health. In terms of weight management, how you eat and how you exercise (in short, your lifestyle) plays an important role between your genetic make-up and your ultimate bodyweight. With variations in genes, each of us responds differently to diet and exercise, thus, it is possible to tailor nutrition and workout plans accordingly.
Here is a one-day sample of a nutritional strategy for the APOE2 person (1,000 calories): Breakfast: blueberries 1/2 Cup(s) 41cal oatmeal prepared with steel cut oats 1/4 Cup(s) 150cal cashew milk 2/3 Cup(s) 100cal walnuts 1/2 oz 99cal Snack: apple 1large 110cal smooth peanut butter, no added salt 1 Tbsp 94cal Lunch: turkey breast (cooked) 2oz 154cal romaine lettuce 3 leaf 3cal tomatoes 1/2 Cup(s) 16cal avocado 1/2 avocado 161cal cucumber 1/2 Cup(s) 3cal Dinner: broccoli (boiled) 1Cup(s} 55cal avocado oil 2 tsp 60cal halibut fish (cooked) 2oz 63cal
By understanding how your body metabolizes macronutrients, i.e., carbs, fats and protein, consider investigating your APOE Gene status.
Here is a one-day sample of a nutritional strategy for the APOE3 person (1,500 calories):
Breakfast:
cottage cheese 4% 1/2 Cup(s) 110cal egg (hard boiled) 1 large 78cal 5-grain honey whole wheat bread 2 slices 220cal blueberries 1&1/2 Cup(s) 124cal Lunch: romaine lettuce 2 Cup(s) 16cal extra virgin olive oil 1Tbsp 120cal lemon juice 1Tbsp 3cal cucumber 1/2 Cup(s) 3cal potato (with skin, boiled) 8 oz 177cal asparagus 1&1/2 Cup(s) 40cal chicken breast (cooked) 3 oz 140cal Dinner: kale 1 Cup(s) 33cal extra virgin olive oil 1Tbsp 120cal lemon juice 1Tbsp 3cal white beans (boiled) 1/2 Cup(s) 127cal salmon (cooked) 3 oz 130cal brown rice (cooked) 1/2 Cup(s) 109cal
If I can be of any servi ce reach out to me by co , please mpleting the Healthspan Quiz at
www.drkarenpendlet on
.com
This will allow for a more precise nutritional plan. Previously, a lot of these decisions would have been based on guesswork. This approach can offer you the lean, healthy physique you desire, along with securing your brain and heart health. In closing…know your APOE Gene!!! Be proactive by aligning yourself with a knowledgeable healthcare provider that offers this and other comprehensive testing. 66
Here is a one-day sample of a nutritional strategy for the APOE4 person (2,000 calories): Breakfast: oatmeal prepared with steel cut oats 3/4 Cup(s) 450cal blueberries 1Cup(s) 83cal eggs 2 large 182cal Snack: tangerines 2 medium 89cal cranberry kombucha 1&1/2 Cup(s) 84cal low fat cottage cheese1% 1&1/4 Cup(s) 203cal Lunch: ancient grains snack crackers 1&1/2 oz 179cal baby carrots 1/2 Cup(s) 16cal Dijon mustard 1 Tbsp 15cal corn tortilla, no added salt 2 1/2 tortilla 144cal turkey breast (cooked) 4 oz 154cal Dinner: mixed vegetables (boiled) 2 Cup(s) 118cal wild rice (cooked) 2 Cup(s) 331cal shrimp (cooked) 6 oz 202cal
DISCLAIMER: All of the information found in this article is based on the opinion of the author Karen M. Pendleton, M.D. The information is meant to motivate readers to make their own health decisions after consulting with their own health care providers. All readers should consult a doctor before making a health change, especially those that are related to a specific diagnosis or health condition. No information in this article should be relied on in determining a diet, making a medical diagnosis or determining a treatment for a medical condition. The information in this article is not intended to replace a relationship with a qualified healthcare practitioner and is not intended as medical advice. No information in this article should be used to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or condition.
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GIVING BACK Spotlight:
About the Organization Room Redux...for pronunciation, it sounds like “ducks” not “dew.” In fact, we give out little rubber ducks at fundraising events to teach people how to correctly pronounce it. This also helps keep children occupied while we discuss our mission with the parents. Our organization is a nonprofit that focuses on transforming the rooms of children who have faced sexual or physical abuse. This can be a powerful tool to foster healing, as many times abuse occurs in a child’s room or bed, making the room itself feel unsafe. As a result, children may stop sleeping, start acting out or may become depressed, avoiding their room entirely. Through donations and grants, Room Redux fully transforms children’s rooms so they will feel comfortable and safe.
Our Mission
A new room = a new start.
Room Redux: where healing and transformation go hand-in-hand. We are compassionately dedicated to encouraging healing and improving the lives of children who have faced abuse, through room transformation. Since the beginning, one main goal of Room Redux has been to have the ability to transform the rooms and lives of children everywhere who have been victimized. With chapters opening up across America, we get closer to reaching that goal every day.
WRITTEN BY LAURIE CALAHAN
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How We Started I am a wife, a mom, a grandmother (“Lolli”), an artisan jeweler and a tour host/coordinator to Ireland. As a small business owner of two home-based businesses, I am able to continue my dream of living in Ireland part of the year, while continuing my mission of also advocating for survivors of sexual abuse. I have created several jewelry lines of which a portion of my proceeds go towards facilitating m y mission: My heart’s desire and ultimate passion is to raise awareness of sexual abuse and aid in its prevention, to empower those who have been abused, and to offer hope and healing to survivors. About a year ago, my husband and I were approached by two very dear friends about starting up Louisiana’s first chapter of this amazing organization. I have done some local fundraising, supporting and “awareness-raising” for survivors of sexual abuse publicly for about four years and this is why our friends, Drs. Rhett and Bernadette McLaren, immediately thought of us when they were approached by Susie Vybiral, Founder of Room Redux, about setting up a chapter in our area. Dr. Rhett McLaren and I immediately set out to make connections and begin networking to make this happen. I set up a meeting with Jessica Miller, Chief Executive Officer at The Gingerbread House Children’s Advocacy Center to discuss working together to help these children not only heal but to have a safe place of their own to do this. Often, abuse occurs in a child’s own room. This can link the room to feelings of fear and aversion, causing the child to avoid it entirely. We give children new rooms in which they can feel comfortable and safe. We have not only been able to partner with the Gingerbread House, but we also have partnered with Jeri Bowen at the Family Justice Center, and K.C. Kilpatrick, founder of Geaux Bags.
Together, we can all help as many children as possible. 70
Our First
A True
Super Hero
ROOM TRANSFORMATION
I
I
am happy to say that, a year later, Room Redux SBC has completed our first Room Transformation. This particular room was titled: A True Super Hero. This child loves superheroes, so we decided to make this the theme of his room. We wanted to remind him that HE is a true superhero because he was so brave to come forward about his abuse. Another dear friend of mine, local interior designer and Room Redux volunteer, Lynda Huffman and I met up with the caregiver of this child and made a plan of action to transform this child’s room. We assessed the room and created the design/layout, then we set out to make all the necessary purchases to make this dream a reality. The child never sees us and we do not see the child. The day the room is transformed, the child is not in the home. All of this is done in less than twentyfour hours (this one was done in about six hours), so when the child returns, his/her room is completely transformed. It is a complete surprise. Now, one of the stipulations concerning the candidates for room transformations is that each one must be in counseling or have been in counseling. In addition to this, all Room Redux volunteers must undergo a background check before they are able to help in any way. The day we transformed this room, we had 21 volunteers.
t does my heart good to be able to say that we are in the process of beginning the next Room Transformation. I would love to say that we are in a position of being able to transform the rooms of every single child who has been affected by abuse, but unfortunately, that is not possible. Realistically, and as of now, we are looking to transform at least four to five rooms per year. As we grow, we hope to be able to do many more. Our ability to do more is dependent upon donations from individuals, businesses and other organizations. It takes about $1,500-2,500 to complete a room, depending on how much furniture and decor is needed for each room. So, obviously, we need as much as we can get. Also, we not only accept monetary donations, but we also accept donations of furniture and decor. Except for mattresses, furniture does not have to be brand new, it can be used/refurbished. Doing this kind of work means that I get to be a part of bringing hope and healing to children who have been affected by abuse and I could not possibly be more blessed to be able to do just that.
Donate
You can support the cause and donate to Room Redux SBC by going to: sbc.roomredux.org/donate Learn more about how you can get involved with this organization at: sbc.roomredux.org/get-involved
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How to Stress Less During the Holiday Season WRITTEN BY MICHELLE YETMAN, PH.D. CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST CHILDREN’S CENTER, SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONS LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
ith every morning news show discussing the pandemic shortages, “Better get your turkey now!” and the images of huge shipping container ships sitting idle off the coast of California, you may already feel stressed about the holidays before you even had a chance to put away the kids Halloween costumes. Holidays can bring on a lot of stress and unrealistic expectations for many of us, but this year we may all be setting ourselves up for feeling like a failure unless we pause, do a reality check and carefully plan for the holiday season. Here are some strategies to enjoy the holiday season and thrive rather than merely survive it: Everything in moderation. This might be the first year in a while where we actually gather and have Christmas parties. While it will be tempting to go all out and say “yes” to everything and everyone, too much food, alcohol and stress is not good for your health. Make your choices carefully. Saying “yes” to one party may mean saying “no” to another. In 74
addition, maybe you don’t need to host your entire extended family, your church group and your book club while also mailing out personalized holiday cards in the three weeks leading up to Christmas. Putting too many things on your todo list, no matter how fun they sounded at the time, will leave you feeling stressed and burnt out. Better to be selective with your time and energy. Stick to your budget. No one wants to feel regret or anxiety when the credit card bills roll in come January. Make your gift-giving list and assign an amount before you decide to go shopping. Stick to your budget! The global shipping delays are an opportunity to get creative. You can buy locally or think outside the box. What about offering coupons for baked goods, a massage, foot rub or car detailing? Not all presents need to be purchased at the store. Teach your children how good generosity feels. Help them play Santa. Let them learn the value of volunteering if they are old enough. If they are still young, before new toys arrive, get a box and have them select
Everything in moderation. Stick to your budget. Ask for help. Set realistic expectations. Take a moment for yourself.
toys they are willing to part with for children who may not be getting many toys this season. Emphasize the “Season of Giving” and try to find an opportunity to teach your children this rewarding message. Ask for help. Moms typically try to do everything themselves. Teaching our children that family is a “team” and everyone pitches in is a good lesson. Divide and conquer. Have the family pitch in and clean the living room before the tree goes up. Ask your mother and sister-in-law to bring two side dishes and dessert to the holiday meal. When people offer to help, give them that gift and graciously say, “Yes, that would be wonderful!” Set realistic expectations. In order to do this, you may need to stay off social media. If that Instagram or Tiktok feed of professionally decorated living rooms, sparkling from head to toe with silver glitter and snowflakes, are already starting to invade your feed (we have not even had Thanksgiving people), you made need to take a break. Know the difference between
fantasy and reality. The reality is crying toddlers after a long car ride, crazy Uncle Joe sharing his conspiracy theories at the table and Aunt Mary, who begins to call your children by the wrong names after she has had one too many Chardonnays. Real life is messy and families are complicated. Prepare yourself and you will not be disappointed. You may not have the perfect family and your holiday meal may not look like a Norman Rockwell painting, but if you can accept people for who they are (shortcomings and all) and recognize that your time with them is limited, you should be able to survive even the most awkward family dinner. Finally, remember to take a moment for yourself. Focusing on others is a wonderful aspect of the holiday season and who doesn’t love the season of giving? In the true spirit of giving, remember to give a little back to yourself. Keep to a schedule as much as possible. Protect your sleep, your generally healthy eating habits, and make time for exercise and pleasurable activities. Happy Holidays! 75
Pursue Your Goals
(318) 798-9022 info@mcdanielfinancial.net
6969 Fern Loop, Suite 203 • Shreveport, La 71105 @McDanielFinancial
@jt-mcdaniel-99a3b884
McDaniel Financial is an independent financial services firm that utilizes a variety of investment and insurance products. Investment advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM). AEWM and McDaniel Financial are not affiliated companies. 1122841-11/21
There are amazing women making an enormous difference in Louisiana for the common good and at McDaniel Financial we want to honor them. Here’s the lady I know best…
McDaniel Financial:
My wife and I often hike narrow trails through the woods together. She likes to be in front because she can’t see around me and otherwise the roots would catch her by surprise. We learn the most about each other and life from this position because it is where we have time to talk and just be. Of course, leading the way she also catches most of the spider webs, but hey, this system works for us both. In life though, we walk alongside each other, and we work together. And even after all these years, I’m often impressed — and continually count myself blessed — as I grow to understand and respect Megann more and more. Cheerleader, member of the dance team, athlete, valedictorian — that’s the early stuff. Later, she would go on to get an MBA and become a business executive, nonprofit board member and all-around kind and generous person. She gives free yoga classes and will run her own race then do it again just to keep you company. As a youth, she overcame numerous obstacles, all entirely outside her control —and nonetheless accomplished much. Today, she chooses her obstacles and makes opportunities for herself and others. Yes, she is the ultimate organizer and extremely focused. She prioritizes, and in particular, she chooses friends and associates carefully. She surrounds herself with exceptional people. This is the Megann I know and love. I hope you will also find the opportunity to get to know her. You’ll love her too! The point of this piece isn’t to just brag about my wife. It is to show that I know a lot of women out there are like her. They are working hard to lift up and support those around them. Each woman has a beautiful story. That’s why at McDaniel Financial we want to help those that are helping others. Our team is made up of qualified financial professionals who are passionate about helping individuals and families achieve their ideal retirements. If you’re interested in a consultation on how we can help, give us a call today!
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oP PPoOPDR RTRAITS Telling Stories through Artful Headshots
GET TO KNOW
B IA N C A P L A N T BIANCA PLANT: A cookbook author, registered dietitian and nutrition advocate.
W
hether through writing grants, creating farmers’ markets or promoting chronic disease prevention through eating and ifestyle changes, Bianca is passionate about bringing wellness to her community. • She provides counseling in Medical Nutrition Therapy and inspiration through her blog on how to build balanced meals to reduce the stress of dinner time. • She is the Founder of the “Eating God’s Way” food blog and cookbook. • She is featured on the monthly nutritional segment on KLFY TV 10’s Passe Partout Show.
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Hey there! My name is Hannah Gumbo.
I’m a full-time muralist and illustrator creating work that embraces color, positivity and joy from my home in the Cajun Prairies of Eunice, Louisiana. I’ll be sharing my latest outdoor art adventure with you over the next few issues of Lola! My project the“PopDrop Booth,” is a rentable mobile backdrop that showcases my original paintings while providing an immersive art encounter that can take place anywhere. Through ArtSpark, I partnered with local photographers to create a series of portraits celebrating Louisiana women of small business. These photos highlight PopDrop’s possibilities while showcasing these incredible ladies and their unique career paths. The booth was re-painted or redesigned with each portrait session, allowing me to use various mediums and techniques to bring each story to life.
WRITTEN BY HANNAH GUMBO PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRITTANY BOUDREAUX
A TYPICAL DAY IN BIANCA’S LIFE Every day is different and that’s what makes it so exciting! Some days are filled with educating patients of Medical Nutrition Therapy that may suffer from numerous disease states. Other days are focused on nutrition advocacy through a family cook along on Zoom, FB Live, or radio/ tv segments. Because of my hectic schedule, it is so important for me to prepare myself for the week through grocery shopping and meal prep. Practicing the nutrition that I preach is vital so that I can understand the challenges of my clients. 79
VALUES SHE BRINGS TO HER WORK: Passion & Perseverance
THE BEST PART OF RUNNING YOUR OWN SMALL BUSINESS Knowing that I’ve educated or connected with at least one person through my cooking segments, seminars or social media gives me great joy. This individual may or may not schedule a personal consultation, but something will spark within them to begin creating a healthier lifestyle for themselves and their families. Beating chronic disease before it beats us is possible — we just have to make wellness our priority!
THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF RUNNING YOUR OWN SMALL BUSINESS My field of work is ever-changing when it comes to health, wellness, diets and even scams. I try to stay up-to-date on the latest research especially if my audience finds it to be popular. With popularity, however, comes questions and speculation. Because I am an expert in my field, I find it necessary to have those questions answered and correct wrong information that is disseminated on the internet daily.
WHERE CAN WE BUY FROM YOU? Check out EatingGodsWay.net to purchase a cookbook, schedule a consultation or book a speaking engagement.
Social Handles:
Hannah Gumbo: @hannahgumbo PopDrop: @popdropbooth Bianca Plant: @eating_gods_way Brittany Boudreaux: @breakfast_at_briffanys 80
Location: For Bianca’s PopDrop
portrait, we chose the River Road African American Museum in Donaldsonville, Louisiana where she has served as a board member since 2017. This space features important documents, artifacts and architecture that highlight African Americans within the state. This is a special location to Bianca because it represents her culture while also touching on the history of food production. She is interested in looking at how the cooking techniques and cultivation of produce have evolved yet all link back together. She loves that the museum features a Freedom Garden that grows vegetables every season.
Creative Direction: My inspiration
for this shoot came from Bianca’s passion for heritage and health. The color palette was based on her connection with her African and Creole roots, as well as the bounty that comes from a fresh home grown garden. Our props were pulled that morning from fertile soil and the baskets were handwoven locally. The painted design creates a buzz of energetic brushstrokes that represent the community focus and cheerful warmth Bianca brings to her business.
Photography: Brittany Boudreaux
is a Lafayette photographer who creates beauty, portrait and fashion photography through a female perspective. Through her work, she aims to empower women to see, feel and acknowledge their beauty and power. She seeks to cultivate friendships and meaningful dialog through the work she creates and the community she shares it with.
Funded by: ArtSpark, an individual artist stipend supported by LEDA (Lafayette Economic Development Authority) and administered by the AcA (Acadiana Center for the Arts).
wE WISH you a merry christmas
and all smiles in the new year! Dr. Crawford, Dr. Backofen, Dr. Wallace, & Dr. Chidlow and the team at Pediatric Dental Partners
two locations NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
318 Carroll st. shreveport, la 71105 (318) 865-2250
4001 Viking dr, ste a bossier city, la 71111 (318) 747-7020
I
began this journey around the age of 12 unknowing this was a Gift that God provided me. When I was a little girl I would ask my dad on Birthdays, Anniversary, and other Holidays if he would take me to the store so that I could decorate or make surprised to family. I would set my parents room with a table for them to eat with rose petals on the table and floor with table settings and tablespaces; I felt so accomplished after doing so. Then I being brushing up on the wrapping skills, and lead me in charge of all gift wrapping. After graduating from Captain Shreve High School, I attend Southern University A&M Baton Rouge and LA Tech after Graduation I lived in Houston, Tx and back home to Shreveport, LA. Upon returning home I began my career as a HR Business Partner in Retail, Manufacturing, and Oil & Gas Sector for 20 years. During my HR tenure I continued to creative florals and designing in the spare time, However I knew that something was missing. I loved HR and helping companies and associates growing to new heights, yet I felt stagnated. After my last workforce restructuring, I finally decided to fully trust God and step out on FAITH. I have experienced highs and lows but it is been worth it every moment of the journey.
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I am now the owner and operator of Events by Tab where our style can best be described as traditional with a twist. We believe in balance; if we focus on incorporating Joy, Uniqueness, Innovation, Creativity, and Energy into the space, we are able to produce better parties. We pride ourselves in the unexpected; we like to push the envelope and our mission is always to create a party, not just a pretty event.
In addition, we have expanded our services with a full-service event center. Venecia Luxury Event Venue located at 6350 Venecia Dr in Bossier City, La. with a capacity to seat 150-175 guest. Venecia Luxury Event Venue partnered with Events by Tab offers a full-service event design company whom offers an array of customized services. Our services represent our main offerings and can be tweaked to fit your needs. We offer Full-service or Raw Space featuring a ‘la Carte Services. 83
Winter Skin WRITTEN BY DR. SOUYOUL
One more change you may need to make in the winter As the seasons change so should is with your retinol. While retinols help regenerate collagen, your skincare clean out and tighten pores, and prevent routine. In the fall acne they also decrease oil production. and winter months Dr. Souyoul recommends decreasing your the humidity level retinol strength if you are feeling too dry outside drops this winter. If your skin is still feeling dry causing the water even with a decreased strength then you in your skin to may want to switch out your retinol for DR. PENNINGTON (left) evaporate faster a growth factor serum. Dr. Pennington’s FACIAL PLASTIC SURGEON AND DR. SOUYOUL (right) DERMATOLOGIST leaving your favorite growth factor is SkinMedica’s skin feeling dry TNS Advanced+ Serum. This serum helps and tight. This skin cell renewal and supports collagen is why board certified dermatologist, Dr. Skylar Souyoul, and elastin levels bringing out smoother, more radiant skin. recommends adding or changing the If your skin is still feeling dry and dull then Drs. moisturizer you are using when the weather Pennington and Souyoul recommend you come in for an starts to cool off. Dr. Souyoul’s go-to winter ultra hydrating DiamondGlow facial to clean out your pores, moisturizer is SkinBetter Science Trio remove dead skin Rebalancing Moisturizer. This moisturizer has cells and rejuvenate ceramides, hyaluronic acid and cholesterol in your skin. This is a it to restore your natural skin barrier while personal favorite giving your skin the moisture it is craving in treatment for the cold months. In addition, you may want to both doctors and stop using certain skincare products such as a a true “lunchtime toner, especially if it contains alcohol, because treatment” giving it can strip your skin of it’s natural oils and you instant moisture. Dr. Souyoul Conducting A Skincare Consultation gratification with Another important change to make in your skincare routine would be to avoid no downtime. This is a great treatment to do the week of a big facemasks or other skincare products which holiday party. You immediately walkout with smooth, glowing contain clay. Clay helps to remove impurities skin and your makeup will sit flawlessly. from the skin but can also remove essential oils leaving your skin dry. Dr. Lindsey TO PURCHASE ANY OF THE SKINCARE PRODUCTS Pennington, double board certified facial mentioned in this article please come by Lindsey Pennington, MD Facial Plastics at 6030 Line Ave, Suite 110, Shreveport, LA plastic surgeon, recommends SkinCeuticals 71106 or visit our website www.penningtonfacialplastics.com. Hydrating B5 Mask. This mask is perfect for dry winter skin. It contains high levels If you are unsure what your skincare needs are please call our of hyaluronic acid to provide long lasting office at 318-216-5366 to schedule a complimentary skincare hydration and to improve the texture and look of the skin, consultation. We are open Monday thru Saturday so you can while the vitamin B5 helps repair your skin’s natural barrier. pick up skincare or get a DiamondGlow facial even on Saturdays!
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HOURS Monday-Friday: 8am – 5pm Saturday: 9am – 1pm
LOCATION 6030 Line Ave, Suite 110 Shreveport, LA (318) 216-5366
@penningtonfacialplastics
penningtonfacialplastics.com
SURGICAL SERVICES
Actual Surgical Results Of Dr. Pennington
› Rhytidectomy (Facelift)
› Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)
› Neck Lift
› Lip Lift
› Buccal Fat Pad Excision
› Brow Lift
› Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)
› Earlobe Reduction/Repair
› Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) PHYSICIAN NON-SURGICAL
DR. LINDSEY PENNINGTON
› Neck Liposuction
› Scar Revision AESTHETIC SERVICES
› Medical Grade Facials › Botox › Chemical Peels › Filler › Dermaplane › PRP Injections (Hair or Skin) › Diamond Glow › Lasers Dermalinfusion › Aquagold Fine Touch › Customized medical › Micro-needling with PRP grade skincare › Kybella › D.O.S.E SkinCeuticals › Micro-needling with radio › Virtual consultations frequency/ Morpheus 8 available › FaceTite
SKINCARE BRANDS
Available for pickup in office or shipment to home › SkinCeutical Monday-Friday: 8am – 5pm • Saturday: 9am – 1pm › SkinMedica › SkinBetter › Revsion
6030 Line Ave, Suite 110 • Shreveport, LA
› Colorescience
(318) 216-5366
› Elta MD penningtonfacialplastics.com
Dr. Pennington Performing A Surgery
@penningtonfacialplastics
Living United in Northwest Louisiana:
100 YEARS MAKING IN THE
I
n 1921, the movement made its way to Shreveport, Louisiana, and was known as the Community Chest. One hundred years later, it is known as United Way of Northwest Louisiana (UWNWLA) for its 10-parish footprint: Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Claiborne, DeSoto, Natchitoches, Red River, Sabine, Webster and Winn. Over the years, UWNWLA has
In 1887 Denver, Colorado, a woman, a priest, two ministers, and a rabbi got together… It sounds like the beginning of a bad joke, but they didn't walk into a bar. What they did was recognize the need to make Denver a better place for all. Together, they had an idea that became the nation's first United campaign, benefitting 10 area health and welfare agencies. They created an organization to collect funds for local charities, coordinate relief services, counsel and refer clients to cooperating agencies and make emergency assistance grants for cases that could not be referred. That year, Denver raised $21,700 for the greater good and created a movement that would become United Way.
narrowed its focus on four important qualities of life: health, education, financial stability and essential needs. It has also focused its scope on ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). ALICE individuals are our nurses, cashiers, waiters, and many others. Their households are forced to make tough choices, such as deciding between quality childcare
or paying rent, which have long-term consequences for ALICE and all. Last year, the 2020 ALICE Report was released and stated since 2018, 55 percent of individuals make up ALICE and poverty households in Northwest Louisiana. UWNWLA aids ALICE families and others by offering free programs and services to help them make ends meet. 87
U
WNWLA has made many strides over the last 100 years to make Northwest Louisiana a better community for all. Many of UWNWLA's victories have taken place under the leadership of President & CEO, Dr. Bruce Willson Jr. Since his induction in 2008, UWNWLA opened enrollment for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, introduced the ALICE Report, reestablished the 211 health and human service hotline, and opened the Shreveport Financial Empowerment Center in partnership with the City of Shreveport. UWNWLA's Dolly Parton's Imagination Library program is a literary resource that mails free books to children from birth to age five to prepare them for kindergarten success. Since the program opened for enrollment in 2012, UWNWLA has mailed more than 200,000 books to children in our region.
President & CEO, Dr. Bruce Willson Jr.
M
any have seen 211 advertised on digital billboards throughout COVID-19; that's because it quickly became a leading resource with the most up-to-date information on the coronavirus. 211 is a free, confidential call line available 24/7 that connects individuals to resources like food, clothing, utility assistance, and more. Since its re-establishment in 2017, 211 has answered nearly 46,000 calls in our region. Another resource that has blossomed through United Way is SingleCare, formerly FamilyWize. Through SingleCare, individuals can search for their prescriptions at local pharmacies and receive offers at discounted rates. Since the program's launch in 2007, our region has saved 2.1 million in prescription costs, insured or not.
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O
ne of UWNWLA's proudest accomplishments was opening the Shreveport Financial Empowerment Center (SFEC) in May 2020. The SFEC provides free financial counseling and coaching as a public service to residents. Trained counselors help individuals and families manage their finances, pay down debt, increase savings, build credit, and access safe and affordable mainstream banking products. According to recent data, client savings have risen more than half a million dollars, and the same amount has been reduced in client debt. After these accomplishments and 13 years of serving our community, Dr. Willson has announced his retirement. However, he is excited to see what UWNWLA has in store to kick off its next century. "It is because of our generous supporters that United Way's efforts are successful, and it's the reason we will carry on for another century," said UWNWLA
President & CEO, Dr. Willson. "I see United Way in the next 100 years deepening and strengthening its relationship to the governmental entities where we serve. They are helping to set the agenda of citizens by bridging the gap between the municipality and the workplace to bring everyone together." UWNWLA will have a new President & CEO in office by the first quarter of 2022. "Bruce's influence has shaped not only the morale within the organization but also the community at large," said Board of Directors' Chair, John Adams. "We are confident that the next President & CEO will embody those same qualities and will be ready to represent and fight for all in our community by strengthening relationships, getting involved, and getting hands-on."
UWNWLA looks forward to continuing the fight for health, education, financial stability, and essential needs for another century. However, the organization can't do it without help. If you are looking for a way to give back this giving season, please consider supporting United Way of Northwest Louisiana. Donations can be made at unitedwaynwla.org/donate. For more information on how to get involved, contact Carly Koen at carly@unitedwaynwla.org or 318-606-6590.
Please help us continue to provide essential programs and services to our region by choosing to
LIVE UNITED this season.
Welcome your loved ones into a
CLEAN and HEALTHY home this
Holiday Season
Call Patrick Young (318) 532.0534 • COMMERCIAL / RESIDENTIAL • FLOOD RESTORATION • PET DAMAGE REPAIR • CARPET REPAIR • CERAMIC TILE CLEANING • UPHOLSTERY CLEANING • SMOKE/PET/OZONE ODOR TREATMENT
Truck Mount Cleaning - Professional Service 89
Get Ready to Be
IN S PIRED !
ARCHITECT: LARRY HOTT DESIGNS
Proceeds from Inspiration Home Tour to benefit
For more information contact us at readlola.com
MUST-ATTEND EVENTS GIVE THE GIFT OF LEARNING
$
99
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Join Us for our Open House Dec. 9th & 13th | 3-7 pm FREE GIFT to all that attend
8856 Youree Dr., Ste D, Shreveport, LA 71115
F BRA REE I WIT NY PICS H SA NTA | 318.797.8523 | LearningRx.com/Shreveport
10am - 2pm SATURDAYS December 4 • 11 • 18
SAVE THE DATE! OPEN HOUSE 2022 NORTHWEST LOUISIANA Go Red for Women Celebration
Tuesday Jan. 25
Tuesday, February 8th 5:30 P.M. - Silent Auction & Cash Bar
9am-1pm & 5:30-6:30pm
CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health- Health & Wellness Expo
7:00 P.M. - Dinner & Program Sam's Town Casino & Hotel 315 Clyde Fant Pkwy | Shreveport, LA Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by
It All Begins Here
Signature Sponsor
Preschool 2 through 8th Grade Episcopal School
Call 318-221-7454 for more information or visit www.StMarksSchool.com 2021 1011 St. Marks.indd 1
11/11/21 4:15 PM
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MUST-ATTEND EVENTS
December 3
facebook.com/GreatRaftBrewing
December 11
facebook.com/MeadowsMuseum
December 10
facebook.com/ShreveportMetroBallet
December 31
facebook.com/The-Social-Circle
December 11
facebook.com/ShreveportMetroBallet
Now through February 27
December 11
facebook.com/fosml
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February 12
facebook.com/sciport
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John Preston Parry, MD, MPH
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t Positive Steps Fertility, we understand that the infertility journey isn’t easy, and that the decision to seek fertility support is incredibly important. This is why we want you to have a wonderful experience, clear communication, and expert care to help you have the family of your dreams. Our approach is easy, even when fertility isn’t simple. We’ll talk in advance before your first consult, so that your visit is streamlined
Sara Slaton, FNP-C and minimizes paperwork. We’ll focus on the real factors driving fertility (and not just voodoo recommended by so many friends and family members that never went on this journey), as well as how to quickly and economically improve chances. Our experienced team has helped thousands of couples over the years. Now it’s your turn. Please call or email us if we can help you on the TTC (trying to conceive) journey!
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