BLcontents
8 / REALTOR REGISTRY
Realtor Registry showcases the best in Northeast Louisiana’s real estate market. In these pages, you’ll meet three standout professionals.
20 / STRAWBERRY HARVEST SALAD
This vibrant Strawberry Harvest Salad is a perfect blend of crisp lettuce, strawberries, sunflower seeds, and mozzarella balls, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing.
24 / SPRING SHOE EDIT
Step into spring with these stylish sandals from local boutiques. From rosette-embellished slides to chic woven flats, these trendy picks are the perfect treat for your feet.
38 / BAYOU ICON
For her outstanding work in the communications field and her dedication to our community, Darian Williams Atkins is our April 2025 BayouIcon.
48 / YELLOW CALLA LILY
If you’ve never considered a calla lily as a houseplant, now’s the time! Known for its trumpet-shaped blooms, this stunning plant thrives beautifully in a container.
56 / TROPICAL MOSCOW MULE
82 / BAYOU ARTIST
Dorothy Williams isn’t a big fan of sticking to a set pattern when she sews. She prefers to be original and to do things her way so her personality shines through in the end.
APRIL 2018
This tropical twist on a Moscow Mule is bursting with bright citrus and refreshing ginger, making it the perfect sip for spring. Topped with fresh mint, it’s a zesty way to welcome spring.
60 / BUNNY TALES
These adorable bunny portraits, crafted from recycled egg cartons, are a fun and eco-friendly Easter activity for kids. With a little paint, paper, and creativity, children can transform simple materials into cute, bunny faces perfect for Easter.
62 / EASTER PARADE
Get ready to decorate for Easter! Kate Ashley creates a stunning spring mantel.
100 / BAYOU EATS
Two businesses in and twenty-three years young, Alexander is in the process of carrying out her five-year plan which includes growing her cottage bakery, Stewart’s Sourdough, and planning a sustainable living as a future wife and mother.
117 / BAYOU FASHION
These looks from area boutiques capture the essence of the season with breezy floral dresses, playful striped tops, and artisanal hand-drawn tees.
There’s nothing quite like the arrival of spring—the days stretch longer, the weather warms up, and everything feels fresh and new. Soccer and softball seasons are in full swing, and for once, we can enjoy the games without bundling up against the cold. With Easter falling later this year, there’s plenty of time to find the perfect outfit, and our local boutiques are stocked with the sweetest spring styles. Throughout this issue, you’ll discover not only the latest fashion finds but also the best ideas for bunny baskets and seasonal celebrations.
If you’re looking for the best spring outfit, check out our photo shoot on pages 117-124. Special thanks to Masur Museum of Art for letting shoot on their grounds. Ashley Greer, Kelly Moore Clark and Meka Reliford did a fantastic job capturing the essence of the season.
I have been fortunate to know Darian Atkins in many roles, first meeting her when I was a member in the Junior League of Monroe and then working with her at Louisiana Delta Community College. Darian grew up in Gary, Indiana, under the watchful eyes of loving family members who were determined that she would have that full life. It was love that brought her to Louisiana where she has lived all of her adult life. Here in our community many organizations – for profit and non-profit -- have benefited from her leadership and uplifting presence. Whether working in a paid position as she built an impressive career, or volunteering in an unpaid position as she built an equally-impressive community presence, Darian has made a significant difference in the lives of many. For her outstanding work in the communications field and her dedication to our community, Darian Williams Atkins is our April 2025
BayouIcon. Read Georgiann’s article starting on page 38.
Our BayouArtist this month is Dorothy Williams. Dorothy isn’t a big fan of sticking to a set pattern when she sews. She prefers to be original and to do things her way so her personality shines through in the end. Williams lives her life this way, too. The fiber artist is oneof-a-kind, choosing to do things that make her happy rather than sticking to the status quo. That’s why, at 92 years old, she’s still creating. She says it brings her joy, and as long as she can make that joy for herself, she will. After all, she adds, “Life is too short to be unhappy.” Read Starla Gatson’s article on page 82. We often hear that there’s not much to do in Northeast Louisiana, but after putting together this month’s calendar, I’d have to disagree! April is packed with events—concerts, festivals, and countless opportunities to get out, connect, and enjoy our vibrant community. There’s something happening every day, making it the perfect month to mix, mingle, and make the most of spring.
We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of BayouLife Magazine. Please shop local and support the businesses that make our community great.
Cassie
PUBLISHER & OWNER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com
COPY EDITOR Cindy Foust
GENERAL MANAGER Toni Navarro toni@bayoulifemag.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Nathan Coker nathan@bayoulifemag.com
ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES
Katelyn McAllister katelyn@bayoulifemag.com
Lindsay Adams lindsay@bayoulifemag.com
ART DIRECTOR Kate Ashley
LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Kelly Moore Clark
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kenny Covington
Shannon Dahlum
Cindy Gist Foust
Starla Gatson
Paul Lipe
Meredith McKinnie
Georgiann Potts
Delia Simpson
Beatrice A. Tatem
Guy Miller
Vanelis Rivera
Joyce Sims
Kathryn Rhymes, MD
Camryn Thompson
Jill Mouk
Kerry Heafner
Clinton Downing
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kelly Moore Clark
Proven Winners
LSU AgCenter
Kerry Heafner
ON THE COVER
Ashley Greer wearing Herringstones
Kelly Moore Clark
BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Postal subscriptions ($30) can be ordered online at www.bayoulifemag.com. BayouLife Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts, or other materials. Opinion columns do not represent the views of the publisher. Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited.
This expansive residence boasts over 8,000 square feet of meticulously designed living space, showcasing an array of recent updates and improvements, and this gorgeous home sits on two waterfront lots with serene views. Experience luxury living at its finest in a neighborhood that feels like a retreat while still being close to all the conveniences of modern life! MLS#212233 Harrison Lilly, THLT Realty, 318-667-8458
Custom-built home in Egret Landing featuring an open-concept living, dining, and kitchen area with a large brick fireplace as the centerpiece. Tall ceilings and plenty of windows bring in natural light throughout. The kitchen offers floor-to-ceiling cabinets, topof-the-line appliances, a walk-in pantry, a tile backsplash, and a large window overlooking the outdoor patio. The professionally landscaped yard completes this charming home. MLS#213493 Harrison Lilly, THLT Realty, 318-667-8458
This Exquisite modern farmhouse is perfectly configured with a highly functional open concept, split bedroom floor plan. Spacious 4 BR/3BA plus large upstairs bonus room and walk-in closet. A chef’s kitchen with premium gas range, large island and spacious walk in pantry. Expansive master suite with double vanity, zero step shower, soaker tub and large walk-in closet. Entertain in style indoors and out with he expanded back patio and outdoor kitchen featuring multiple sitting areas overlooking the fenced backyard. MLS#207716, Mark Sisk, REMAX Premier Realty, 318-801-4344
Secluded properties such as this beauty are a rare find! This home is a dream with spacious bedrooms and living areas, sunroom and multiple sitting areas. Home offers over 4,000 square feet of living space - plenty of room for entertaining both inside and outside! Property comes with a total of 7.86 acres and includes a saltwater pool, 3 large metal shops with electricity, and 4 horse stalls with pasture space for horses and livestock. MLS#213555, Anna Earl Romero, Cypress State Realty, 318-728-4043
GALLERY of HOMES REALTOR
BayouLife Magazine’s Realtor Registry showcases the best in Northeast Louisiana’s real estate market. In the following pages, you’ll meet three standout professionals— Mark Sisk , Harrison Lilly and the THLT team , Anna Earl Romero —all recognized for their expertise, dedication, and outstanding performance. With proven success and deep knowledge of the local market, these realtors are trusted guides whether you’re buying or selling property. Choosing any of them ensures a smooth and successful real estate experience.
One owner custom built bayou home! 5BR/3.5BA + Office + Gym.
Large lot (0.7 acres) has the highest elevation in the subdivision. A CHEFS DREAM! Luxury kitchen w/ custom cabinets built on site by a Master Craftsman. Premium Appliances. Miele Range, Kitchen Aid Double 30 ovens, JennAir Refrigerator, Bosch Dishwasher. Upstairs has large home gym, an additional master suite w/ full bath, and large office (could be used as 6th bedroom). 2 spacious attics for storage. Two car and separate golf car garage. MLS#213723 Mark Sisk, REMAX Premier Realty, 318-801-4344
Don’t miss this incredible investment opportunity just 46 minutes from the new Meta Center! This 24-unit property, each featuring two queen beds, along with six RV hookups, sits on 3.9 acres—offering prime potential for lodging, extended stays, or workforce housing. Listed at $875,000, this property is strategically located to capitalize on the area’s growth and development. Whether you’re expanding your portfolio or seeking a high-demand rental investment, this is a must-see opportunity! MLS#211284, Anna Earl Romero, Cypress State Realty, 318-728-4043 9634 Hwy 65 S, Lake Providence
3200 Lake DeSiard
613 East Frenchmans Bend Road
1447 Frenchmans Bend
7014 Egret Landing
373 Arcola Plantation Rd, Delhi
THLT Realty’s unwavering commitment to personalized service, cutting-edge technology, and a deep understanding of local markets are what sets it apart. THLT Realty focuses on building lasting relationships with clients, offering tailored solutions that meet unique needs. Their team of highly skilled agents are not only experts in real estate, but also trusted advisors who guide clients through every step of the process.
THLT leverages the latest tools and strategies to make the buying, selling, and renting experience as seamless as possible. Whether it’s through advanced marketing techniques, virtual tours, or data-driven insights, they ensure that their clients are always a step ahead.
At THLT Realty, they believe that every transaction is more than just a deal – it’s a long-term relationship. Their genuine commitment to excellence, transparency, and client satisfaction makes them a standout choice for those looking to make confident, informed real estate decisions.
The company recently moved to a new location at 1309 Louisville Avenue. The historic building once housed R Squared Productions, a renowned independent film production company. R Squared Productions was behind the creation of notable films such as Cowboy and Indian, New Hope, and Flag of My Father, contributing to the region’s growing film industry. The building stands as a testament to the artistic vision and creative energy that once flourished within its walls, playing a key role in the production of compelling, original cinematic works.
The new building is designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and business growth in a modern, dynamic environment. The space is thoughtfully divided to meet diverse needs, with THLT Realty occupying the upstairs, offering a professional and accessible space for business operations. On the ground level, 3 Bridge Productions’ production studio brings creative energy to the building, offering a cutting-edge space for film, media, and digital production.
The building also features 26 executive offices available for lease, each offering a sleek, modern layout with all utilities included for a seamless, hassle-free experience. These offices provide the ideal
setting for businesses looking to expand or establish themselves in a thriving, contemporary space with easy access to creative and professional services under one roof. Whether you’re looking for a prime office location or a vibrant creative space, THLT Realty’s new building is designed to inspire success and collaboration.
At THLT, their realtors are never on their own. As part of a close-knit team, they enjoy the benefits of personalized attention and collaborative support. THLT’s boutique-style approach ensures that their realtors have the resources and guidance they need, without the corporate red tape.
They provide state-of-the-art systems and tools that streamline their workflow, making everything from client management to property listings efficient and seamless. Our realtors have everything they need at their fingertips to close deals quickly and effectively.
THLT Realty
1309 Louisville Avenue, Monroe thltrealty.com | 318-667-THLT
THLT’s in-house marketing team works with each realtor to create tailored campaigns that elevate their listings and attract the right buyers. From high-quality photography to digital and print marketing, they always have the resources to stand out in a competitive market.
We’re committed to the growth of our team. With continuous access to educational programs, workshops, and industry-leading training, they have the continuous opportunity to sharpen their skills and stay ahead in a constantly evolving market.
At THLT, positivity is at the core of their culture. Their team is surrounded by an inspiring, motivating atmosphere that encourages success, creativity, and personal growth. It’s not just about selling homes—it’s about fostering an environment where they can thrive. This allows them to focus on what they do best—selling real estate. THLT’s administrative support team handles the time-consuming tasks, from scheduling to paperwork, so our team can spend more time with clients and on closing deals.
In the competitive world of real estate, success is built on knowledge, dedication, and a commitment to exceptional customer service. Few embody these qualities as well as Mark Sisk of RE/MAX Premier Realty in Monroe, Louisiana. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Mark has earned a stellar reputation as one of Northeast Louisiana’s most trusted and hardworking real estate professionals.
A second-generation realtor, Mark grew up hearing about the world of real estate from his father, who has held his broker’s license for over forty years. ”He always told me it was a really fun business, and I kind of grew up around it,” Mark recalls.
Now entering his 18th year, Mark has solidified his place as a top-performing agent in the region. His extensive knowledge of the market, combined with his ability to navigate complex transactions seamlessly, has made him a go-to expert for buyers and sellers alike. His primary selling areas span Ouachita and Morehouse parishes, where his deep understanding of local trends gives his clients a competitive edge.
Mark’s unwavering commitment to his clients is evident in his exceptional service, which goes well beyond the initial sale. With a repeat and referral business rate of approximately 85%, his approach to real estate is not just about closing deals—it’s about building lasting relationships. ”I really pride myself on the customer service aspect of the business,” he explains. ”Many agents lose clients because they don’t maintain contact after the sale. I make it a point to stay in touch, whether I have their house on the market or not. I send market updates to my buyers, keep them informed, and remain accessible.”
This level of dedication has earned him glowing reviews from satisfied clients, including a consistent stream of five-star ratings on Google. One client praised Mark for his responsiveness, expertise, and unwavering support, saying, ”he’s a truly exceptional, professional, and dedicated agent.” They also said, ”His responsiveness is top tier and he brings great energy and comfort throughout the entire process.” Such testimonials reinforce his reputation as a real estate professional who consistently exceeds expectations.
If you’ve bought or sold a home in Northeast Louisiana in recent years, chances are you’ve come across Mark Sisk’s name more than once. He has consistently ranked among the top 1% of Realtors in Northeast Louisiana based on sales production, as reported by the Northeast Realtors of Louisiana. His accolades include ranking #2 among all RE/MAX agents in the state of Louisiana and securing a top spot among all individual Realtors statewide. These achievements reflect his relentless work ethic, industry expertise, and commitment to excellence.
As an Owner of Remax Premier Realty, he has expanded his reach and elevated the level of service he provides to clients. This endeavor allows him to serve a broader market while maintaining the same high standards of professionalism and dedication that have defined his career. Mark’s proactive marketing strategies, deep market insight, and client-first approach have made a lasting impact on the real estate industry in Northeast Louisiana.
Mark Sisk
1220 N. 18th St., Ste. 200, Monroe marksisk.realtor | 318-801-4344
Beyond his impressive sales record and professional accolades, Mark’s ability to connect with people sets him apart. He understands that buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions a person can make, and he approaches each transaction with a level of care and commitment that is rare in the industry. His clients know that when they work with Mark Sisk, they are not just getting a realtor—they are gaining a trusted advisor who will guide them through every step of the process.
Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, an experienced investor, or someone looking to sell your property, Mark Sisk is the agent you want by your side. With his extensive experience, unmatched industry knowledge, and unwavering dedication to client satisfaction.
Cypress State Realty
Rural Real Estate Sales and Services
CYPRESS STATE REALTY WAS founded on the belief that service comes first. More than just closing deals, their agents are dedicated to guiding clients through one of the most significant financial decisions of their lives with honesty, care, and expertise.
As a family-run business with deep roots in Richland Parish, Cypress State Realty has been serving Northeast Louisiana since 2018. Under the leadership of broker Anna Earl Romero, the agency has gained recognition for its outstanding service, earning several local awards and multiple nominations as a Bayou Life Bayou Buzz finalist. Ryan Romero, co-owner and agent, also plays a key role in the company’s continued success.
“Our agents focus primarily on a ‘service before sales’ business model, creating loyal clients and a large referral network. We strive to provide our clients with both value
and service. It’s not about simply closing deals—the small details matter based on the individual transaction and each client’s goal,” says Anna Earl Romero.
The Cypress State Realty team includes experienced agents who are committed to serving Northeast Louisiana with integrity and expertise:
• Leslie Ann Harris
• Maddy Harwell
• Jamie Holton Johnson
• Pam Finley
• Tammy Parrish
While Cypress State Realty serves clients across Louisiana, their primary focus is rural real estate sales from Monroe to the Mississippi River. Their deep knowledge of the local market allows them to provide expert guidance to both buyers and sellers, ensuring seamless transactions in these communities.
Selling a home in rural Northeast Louisiana presents unique challenges, requiring a deep understanding of local market trends. The experienced agents at Cypress State Realty are well-versed in the region’s real estate landscape and committed to making the selling process as smooth as possible. They take the time to listen to each client’s goals, set realistic expectations, and use their marketing expertise to achieve the best possible outcome.
A successful transaction isn’t just about numbers—it’s about what is best for the client. At Cypress State Realty, relationships matter more than statistics. Sellers can be confident that when they list their home with Cypress State Realty, they have a dedicated partner who prioritizes their needs every step of the way.
Ochsner LSU Health
Shorter Recovery With Robotic Surgery
BY KATHRYN RHYMES, MD
ROBOTIC SURGERY MAY SOUND FUTURISTIC TO SOME people, but it has been around for many years. You might be surprised to learn that the first robotic surgeries took place in the 1980s. Things have changed a lot since then. As technology has progressed, robotic surgery has become more advanced. It is now widely used for a range of surgical procedures.
WHAT IS ROBOTIC SURGERY?
Robotic surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery. It is also called robotic-assisted surgery, which may be a more accurate description because the robot only assists the surgeon. (Don’t worry. Robots are not in charge!)
During procedures that use robotic technology, the surgeon sits at a console in the operating room. The surgeon manipulates mechanical arms equipped with a camera and surgical tools (all from outside of the body) while watching the surgery in real-time on a video monitor. The camera allows the surgeon to see parts of the body that aren’t visible to the naked eye. The instruments allow complex operations to be performed with more precision.
Robotic-assisted surgery is quite a step up from laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery is another minimally invasive procedure that also uses small incisions and a camera, but it is performed by hand. Robotic technology has “wrists” that allow for greater visibility, dexterity and precision. They allow surgeons to perform more complex procedures.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Robotic surgery allows surgeons to access the surgical site through a tiny incision. Using high-tech imaging, they can view the surgical site clearly as they pass surgical instruments through the smaller incision and maneuver them with the human hand. This enables surgeons to make more precise movements during operations.
As a result, you can expect:
• Decreased likelihood of readmission to the hospital.
• Faster recovery after surgery.
• Less blood loss and less postoperative pain.
• Shorter hospital stays.
• Reduced risk of complications during and after surgery.
ROBOTIC SURGERY AT OCHSNER LSU HEALTH MONROE
In the world of robotic surgery, experience matters. Ochsner LSU Health surgeons are regional leaders in their field. Our surgeons use robotic approaches for the most complex cases when performing surgery, while other surgeons may rely on traditional open-surgery techniques.
Using the most advanced robotic technology on the market, our team provides results so that you can get back to your life sooner. Ochsner LSU Health Monroe also prides itself on providing a welcoming environment. You can be assured that you’re getting the highest-quality medical services in a caring, compassionate setting.
To find out more about our services or to make an appointment, visit ochsnerlsuhs.org or call 318-330-7168.
Material Things
Design Hints, Tips, Tricks and Suggestions
YES, CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? WE are heading straight into spring and, with that you know there are so many things that we aspire to do. Refreshing our homes inside and out is always at the top of the list. There are subtle changes that you can make to help you feel like you have accomplished that and then you will have new spaces around you to enjoy every day. We have so many fresh things in the store right now that I know we can help you accomplish a few changes. And, if we don’t have it in stock, then I feel certain that we can special order it for you. Throughout this article, I will give you a few tips and hints or “rules” on accomplishing a fresh, new look!
First off, let’s start with the 60-30-10 rule to color combining. This is the secret to getting your color combinations pleasing to the eye. The 60% is your primary color which is comprised of your wall color because no matter the size of your space, those four walls make up the most square footage and, this percentage can include main furniture pieces as well. The 30% is your secondary color which should support your primary color, this will be your next larger items such as window treatments and accent furniture. Lastly, in the 10% category, this will be your accent color which will be your soft goods like pillows, throws and other accents.
So, let’s discuss a few “rules” about hanging pictures. There really are magic numbers that the pros use when placing wall decor to get it right every time. But, note, I did put rules in parenthesis because everyone at the shop will tell you that I am the world’s worst in just “eyeballing”
it! Number 1 is art height-the center of the picture frame or artwork should be about 57-60 inches from the floor. Number 2 is grouping height-the very center of your entire grouping should still be about 57-60 inches from the floor. Number 3 is about hanging art above furniture-the ideal space between the piece of furniture and the bottom of the frame is 6-8 inches. Number 4 is all about frame spacing-when hanging a gallery wall or grouping of pictures, there is a pretty large scale of leniency from 2-6 inches in between. And, lastly is art scaleif you stick with art or a grouping that is roughly two-thirds the width of the piece of furniture underneath, then it should be perfectly pleasing to everyone.
Another thing is lighting-overhead is overrated except, obviously when it is needed like in a task area such as cooking, sewing or office related. You can never have too many lamps in your home-I personally think the more interesting, the better! A lamp for every corner, every vibe, every mood. And, if you think you have enough-you probably don’t! So, when you see a super cool or interesting lamp, then you need to buy it because you will find a place for it at some point.
There is a somewhat new design verbiage out there that speaks to the idea of intentional clutter. What that simply means is that your home is meant to be lived in and clutter is just an organic part of that. But, mind you, I am a huge proponent of nostalgia, collecting and the curated find so, this idea has never been hard for me! You can totally pull this look off by carefully
selecting items that you love and display them simply and effortlessly. And, once you think you have enough, then one more item or layer can’t hurt. The layering of fabrics, bedding, and books will also help in making this look a reality in your home. A little scientific fact about curating a home full of your favorite things is that it helps to calm and regulate your systems, providing you with a sense of ownership, safety and connection. So, I don’t know about you but, I am feeling relieved that my need for my “stuff” is now validated.
Also, I believe and agree with Hans Lorei Design when he says that the rise of the 80’s aesthetic is on our horizon-deep colors, deep wood tones as in brown furniture, dramatic lighting, metallics and plants. We are all wanting handcrafted over drop shipped; lived in design over apple store; clean lines and richness over uniformity. More color, more wood, more decoration and more mood! But, of course I have to say that personally, I never could align myself with the idea of gray and white rooms, that has just never been in my DNA.
But, what all of these “rules” really boil down to is that there aren’t any. You should take them with a grain of salt because as I always say…if you love it, then you will make it work! When you stick to your color palate you will soon realize that things flow and things are simpatico, that you have made a “nest” so to speak, in your home.
XOXO - Joyce
Spring Sips
The Best Wines, Spirits, and Seltzers for the Season
AS THE WARMTH OF SPRING BEGINS TO SETTLE IN, there’s no better time to explore a selection of exceptional wines, spirits, and unique beverages that enhance the season. Whether you’re gathering for a backyard barbecue, enjoying a breezy afternoon picnic, or simply unwinding after a long day, the right drink can enhance any moment. From bold reds to crisp whites and refreshing cocktails, we at Beef & Barrel have curated a list of standout selections that bring both tradition and innovation to your glass.
One such selection is OVR Old Vine Ranch Red , a wine that pays homage to California’s rich winemaking history. Crafted using the pre-Prohibition method, where all varietals are tanked together rather than separately, this blend delivers a uniquely deep and complex profile. The old-vine Zinfandel at its core is complemented by a medley of other varietals, creating a rich tapestry of dark berries, black pepper, and a touch of spice. Velvety tannins lend a smooth, lingering finish, making it a perfect companion for both cool April evenings and sun-drenched afternoons. For the best experience, try it with a juicy ribeye steak or a plate of slow-cooked barbecue ribs to fully bring out its rich, smoky depth.
For those who prefer a crisp and vibrant white, Domaine Plouzeau Touraine Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent choice. Hailing from the Loire Valley, this wine bursts with zesty citrus, green apple, and delicate floral notes, all balanced by a refreshing minerality. Fans of classic Sancerre will appreciate this as an exceptional alternative, especially given the rising prices and decreasing availability of Sancerre in recent years. This wine is perfect for outdoor gatherings or light springtime meals. For an ideal pairing, consider a fresh goat cheese salad, grilled shrimp, or a citrus-infused chicken dish to enhance its vibrant notes.
For a more unexpected pairing, consider Teutonic Boil Sauce White Wine alongside Best Stop Boudin Balls. This Oregon white is bright, playful, and crafted with acidity and complexity in mind. Notes of citrus, a hint of salinity, and a crisp mineral backbone make it the perfect complement to the rich, savory goodness of deep-fried Cajun boudin. The wine’s refreshing character enhances the smoky, spiced pork and rice filling, offering a balance between indulgence and lightness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard feast or simply craving a bold flavor combination, this duo seamlessly
merges Oregon’s cool-climate winemaking with Louisiana’s deepfried decadence. For an extra Southern-inspired touch, add a side of remoulade sauce or pickled okra to round out the experience.
Looking for a cocktail that’s both easy to make and incredibly refreshing? Reyka Vodka is an excellent base for a Spiked Arnold Palmer with Fruitful Raspberry. Distilled in Iceland using arctic spring water and lava rock filtration, Reyka Vodka boasts a pure, smooth profile that pairs effortlessly with the bright, tart-sweet character of raspberry liqueur. To create this simple yet sophisticated cocktail, mix 2 ounces of Reyka Vodka, 1 ounce of Fruitful Raspberry Liqueur, and equal parts sweet tea and lemonade. Stir, pour over ice, and garnish with fresh raspberries and a lemon wedge. Whether you’re lounging on the porch or celebrating the arrival of warmer days, this drink is a surefire way to toast to the season. Try serving it in a mason jar for a rustic touch or adding a sprig of fresh mint for extra freshness.
For those seeking a lighter, more modern way to unwind, Ounce of Hope THC Seltzers offer a bubbly and flavorful alternative. With a selection of deliciously infused options, these seltzers provide a balanced and refreshing experience. Berry High delivers a juicy medley of ripe berries with a crisp finish, Cherry Jane offers a bold and slightly tart cherry infusion, and High Lime brings a zesty citrus sparkle to the mix. Whether you’re looking to relax after a long day or enjoy a social gathering without the effects of alcohol, these THC-infused seltzers provide a unique way to elevate any occasion. With a wide selection of flavors available at Beef & Barrel, we are always happy to assist and educate you on the experience, ensuring you find the perfect match for your preferences. For a fun twist, try pairing them with fruit-forward desserts like mixed berry tarts or lime-infused cheesecake for an extra burst of flavor.
As spring blooms in full force, it’s the perfect time to explore new flavors and revisit timeless classics. Whether you gravitate toward a rich and expressive red, a crisp and lively white, a creative cocktail, or an innovative THC seltzer, there’s a drink for every palate and occasion. So, raise your glass to the new season, embrace the warmth, and savor every sip of these exceptional selections from Beef & Barrel. No matter your taste, there’s always a perfect pour waiting for you.
Strawberry Harvest Salad
This vibrant Strawberry Harvest Salad is a perfect blend of crisp lettuce, strawberries, sunflower seeds, and mozzarella balls, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing. Light yet flavorful, it makes a refreshing and festive start to your Easter lunch.
WHAT YOU NEED:
1 cup lettuce mix
8 strawberries, chopped
1 1/2 cup mini mozzarella balls
4 tablespoons sunflower seeds
DRESSING:
4 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup dark balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper
First, mix ingredients for balsamic dressing together. Next, toss salad ingredients with dressing. Add dressing to taste. Garnish with edible flowers.
Styled by Kate Ashley
| Photography by Kelly Moore Clark
North Woods
by Daniel Mason
“The only way to understand the world as something other than a tale of loss is to see it as a tale of change.”
Daniel Mason’s novel North Woods is more than simply the history of a place. It is the telling of American history and the American people’s history situated through a yellow house in western Massachusetts. The house, or plot of land, is the story’s primary character, as we see the history of a place through its occupants, from the humans who inhabit the land to the bugs that crawl in its soil. Spanning 300 years, from colonial New England to present day, the novel begins with a Puritan couple fleeing the religious constraints that prohibit their coupling. While we dive into their flight, barefoot and pursued by Puritan elders, we are quickly transplanted years into the future when an English soldier decides to grow apples on the property, and just as quickly succeeded by his spinster daughters Alice and Mary, who encounter heartache and eventual tragedy. Thus begins a bevy of characters - an abolitionist, a painter, a developer, an historian, a runaway slave, and others - inhabitants of the property who see it burned, rebuilt, expanded, neglected, and rebirthed. Each chapter introduces another character’s story with the thread of a shared location.
the humans who reside there. Mason interplays narrative forms including letters, poems, lyrics, and diary entries, using the methods of communication as a means of character development and historical archive. The chapters are akin to short stories, with small overlaps from characters far removed in time and experience. Mason also plays with language, showing the evolution of communication. Highlighting the imperative of nature and time as the only eternals, Mason explores themes of love, loss, renewal, betrayal, and regret; he writes, “History haunts him who does not honour it.” Mason affords readers both an aerial view of the property and a microscopic exploration of its influence.
Throughout this expansive novel, Mason questions how big and small life is, both for the people and the creatures that share an environment. While my description might sound cumbersome and suggest the book may be difficult to navigate, it couldn’t be more readable and intelligent simultaneously. If you are a lover of literary fiction, this is the best title I have read in the genre in quite some time, if not the best of any genre. I give North Woods my highest recommendation and am a new fangirl of author Daniel Mason.
Mason layers his characters by mirroring the layers of time, showing how loss transforms into renewal, how the inhabitants of a space extend well beyond
“The whole house seemed to be holding its breath. It was as if the house, having waited in suspense, was now settling into the cool of night.”
REVIEW BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE
SPRING SHOE EDIT
Step into spring with these stylish sandals from local boutiques. From rosette-embellished slides to chic woven flats, these trendy picks are the perfect treat for your feet.
From Top to Bottom: Rosette sandals from Hemline Monroe, metallic and woven flats from Herringstone’s, woven slides with gold link detail from Lilburn’s Boutique, twotoned Mary Janes from Dusty & Company
STYLED BY KATE ASHLEY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK
Alumni Spotlight
ULM Alum: John S. Wells, CPA
RAISED IN DUNN, LOUISIANA, JOHN WELLS LOVED growing up on his family’s farm. Raising cattle and horses, and growing cotton and soybeans meant more time outdoors. After high school, John initially planned to work for the Illinois Central Railroad. His mother Edith Wells earned a Master’s in Education from ULM (then Northeast Louisiana State College), and impressed upon her children the importance of a solid education. After a brief stint at another state institution, John considered ULM, only 40 miles from the farm. Then the Richland Parish School Board offered bus services for rural students to attend ULM, so John only had to pay for tuition, books, and lunch and made it home after school to help out. The largely financial decision to attend ULM afforded John more time with his family and the college experience in an intimate environment. With smaller classes, John developed personal relationships with his professors, many who remained friends over the years.
While majoring in accounting, John remembers the first statement from Dr. James Hood, “People, accounting is an art, not a science.” Dr. Hood served as the ULM Department Head of Accounting for 34 years, one of the longest tenures in the country. John also learned from professor Will T. Smith, who continued to visit John in Alexandria for years after graduation. John’s accounting classes were foundational to his career as a CPA. In between classes, John indulged his love of football by going to all the home games. He remembers watching the greats - ULM running back Joe Profit and Pensacola Navy quarterback Roger Staubach - play in Brown Stadium. The fanbase electrified the atmosphere, and Brown Stadium was the place to be for home games.
Crucial to any successful graduate are the mentors who illuminate a path forward. John’s parents Earl and Edith Wells instilled Christian values and positivity. Classmate Charles Mock, Sr., who was a few years older than John and a Franklin parish native, modeled the values of family and hard work. Charles’s infectious laugh permeated the room, and John knew fun followed whenever Charles showed up. Charles helped John get his first job post-graduation as a Medicare auditor at Blue Cross of Louisiana. Likewise, David Albin, John’s boss at Blue Cross, reflected similar family values and an intense work ethic. From these friends, John
learned, “There’s no right way to do a wrong thing.”
While at Blue Cross, John advanced to second in charge before being promoted in ’73 to district manager in Shreveport. In ‘79, John moved to Baton Rouge to become the Senior Review Auditor. In 1981, John started the accounting firm Lester, Miller & Wells in Alexandria, Louisiana, with two other CPA’s and has since devoted his entire career to the healthcare industry. Now with a second location in Lafayette, Louisiana, John stays busy, crediting the work ethic impressed upon him in his formative years. In the early days of the firm, the CPAs prepared Medicare and Medicaid cost reports by hand, and John found himself working six days a week to build clientele. Having to pay the bills is much different than collecting a paycheck, John notes.
John’s wife Karen is an Air Force “brat”, and maybe an alien, born in Roswell, New Mexico, and the couple met in Shreveport when Karen worked for Bell South. March 27th the couple will celebrate their 49th wedding anniversary. They raised two sonsJohn Michael and his wife Donna live in Prairieville; Joshua Standley and wife Diana live in Alexandria with their two children: Mila (15) and Paxton James (13).
As a ULM alumnus now living in Central Louisiana, John Wells sees the expansive impact of ULM’s reach, extending far beyond northeast Louisiana. He quotes President Berry’s mission for the institution: “ULM is working to eradicate poverty by educating the people ULM serves,” while also being a great economic engine for the region. As one of ULM’s humble beneficiaries and healthcare advocates, John is encouraged by ULM’s commitment to healthcare by educating the public for high-paying jobs for healthcare professionals. VCOM just graduated its first class of osteopathic physicians in 2024 who will help provide care for underserved populations and give back to this community. John Wells is proud of his educational journey and alma mater, as “ULM makes the ArkLaMiss a better place to live.”
John Wells
Comprehensive Cancer Care
With St. Francis Medical Group
ST. FRANCIS MEDICAL CENTER HAS EMBARKED ON A journey to revolutionize cancer care in Northeast Louisiana. With an investment of nearly $4 million in 2022, the medical center has renovated its Cancer Center building at 411 Calypso St., establishing a comprehensive cancer care center that promises to deliver exceptional care.
The St. Francis Oncology & Hematology Clinic is at the heart of this transformation, offering seamless care for patients and their families. The clinic specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer using various therapies. Patients receive tailored treatment plans and individualized care. Medical oncologists at the clinic provide supportive care and coordinated treatment.
Three esteemed Monroe medical oncologists, Dr. Scott Barron, Dr. Coy Gammage and Dr. Barry Weinberger, have joined the St. Francis Medical Group to provide medical oncology and hematology services through the St. Francis Oncology and Hematology Clinic. Together, these physicians bring nearly 84 years of combined experience in providing care for patients with cancer.
Benjamin Weinberger, DO, earned his medical degree from the Des Moines School of Osteopathic Medicine & Surgery and completed his internship in internal medicine at Iowa Methodist Medical Center. He completed his internal medicine residency at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, and he concluded his educational training with two Fellowships at the National Institute of Health Clinical Center, one in oncology and the other in hematology. He is also board certified in medical oncology and hematology as well as coagulation disorders. Dr. Weinberger is a faculty member for the St. Francis Internal Medicine Residency Program.
Scott Barron, MD, received his medical degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport. He completed his internal medicine internship and residency at the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans, followed by an oncology fellowship at the same institution.
Coy Gammage, MD, earned his medical degree from LSU School of Medicine in Shreveport. He completed his fellowship in hematology/ medical oncology at the LSU Health Sciences Center, where he also completed his residency in internal medicine.
These physicians also have the support of three nurse practitioners: Rebecca Hood, APRN, FNP-C; Danielle Traweek, APRN, FNP-C; Ginger Williams, APRN, APRN, FNP-C, along with nearly 40 clinical and support team members.
The first floor of the St. Francis Cancer Center building houses the Northeast Louisiana Cancer Institute, where providers offer comprehensive radiation oncology services. On the second floor, you will find both the St.
Francis Oncology and Hematology Clinic and the St. Francis Outpatient Infusion Center, which provides chemotherapy treatments.
“Bringing these services and oncology physicians together in one convenient location has greatly enhanced the care experience of patients fighting cancer,” said St. Francis President Thomas Gullatt, MD. “Being able to stay close to home and receive high-quality cancer care that is coordinated and accessible helps reduce the worry and stress associated with a cancer diagnosis.”
The Cancer Center building is strategically located only a block away from the main campus of St. Francis Medical Center, easily accessible from I-20. This proximity ensures patients can receive comprehensive care without the added burden of long-distance travel.
In addition to its skilled physicians and state-of-the-art treatments, St. Francis places a strong emphasis on the emotional and psychological well-being of patients. The care team works collaboratively to support patients and their families, offering guidance and encouragement throughout the cancer journey. From education to financial navigation and spiritual support, the center ensures no one faces cancer alone. The team understands that a cancer diagnosis affects not only the patient but also their loved ones.
The team at the St. Francis Oncology and Hematology Clinic love seeing their patients complete their treatment and “ring the bell,” which was donated to the clinic by the St. Francis Foundation.
The ringing of the bell ceremony marks the end of chemotherapy, symbolizing new beginnings and the completion of treatment. This tradition allows patients to ring the bell three times, celebrating this significant milestone.
St. Francis Medical Center was established by six Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Sisters nearly 112 years ago to care for the residents of Northeast Louisiana. Improving cancer care continues their mission of impacting the community for the betterment of all. The Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System’s ongoing investment in cancer services signals a steadfast commitment to providing outstanding and compassionate care to patients using leading-edge cancer treatment.
St. Francis Medical Center is poised to make a significant impact on cancer care in Northeast Louisiana. The center’s comprehensive approach ensures that patients receive the highest quality care, tailored to their individual needs and delivered with compassion and expertise.
To learn more about the services and initiatives at St. Francis Medical Center, visit stfran.com.
Leading with Love
A Path to Reducing Stress
BY BEATRICE A. TATEM, PH.D., LPC-S, NCC, ACS
AS WE LEAVE THE MONTH OF MARCH AND ENTER APRIL, we can anticipate longer, brighter days, warmer weather with signs of spring blossoming everywhere. April meaning “to open” is the time in nature when trees and flowers begin to bloom and open. These signs of new beginnings can be seen symbolically in various aspects of life. April is filled with awareness campaigns and heritage celebrations that hold significant meaning to people from diverse cultures and religions offering opportunities to educate, advocate, and commemorate various causes and cultural contributions. All of these themes resonate this month with the Jewish festival of Passover, Christian observation of Good Friday and Easter, and Muslim celebration of Ramadan.
In the mental health world, the month of April is designated as “Counseling Awareness Month,” and “Stress Awareness Month.” The month focuses on raising awareness about stress, its effects, the impact on our wellbeing, coping mechanisms and strategies to manage it effectively. It aims to encourage open conversations about stress and reduce the stigma associated with it. Since its’ inception in 1992, Stress Awareness Month has always been a time when society highlights the symptoms of stress, both physical and mental, however this year it seems particularly important. The theme for this year’s Stress Awareness Month is #LEADWITHLOVE. The theme encourages everyone to be kind, compassionate, and accepting of themselves and others no matter the challenges they face. The theme is a wake-up call to practice and prioritize unconditional love, understanding, empathy and to create positive changes in everyday life across various communities. Like blooms we must open ourselves, our minds and hearts to discussing the timeliness, purpose as well as the significance of this campaign. According to mental health literature the occurrence of stress, anxiety and depression has increased due to the nature, depth and intensity of current societal challenges. In today’s world, often marked by tension, division, and uncertainty, stress is thriving in an atmosphere many experience as chaotic, conflictual and unkind. However, love is a universal force that can transform interactions and create a wave like effect of positivity. By choosing love as a foundation by which we live, learn and lead we can foster greater understanding, nurture emotional resilience, build stronger relationships, and support one another in meaningful ways. Whereas experiencing stress is inevitable, persistent stress over time can compromise our wellbeing. Simply put, you cannot live a healthy life without good mental health. Taking collective measures to reduce stress helps to foster a happier, healthier, and more resilient world. Whether it is through personal reflections, organizational initiatives, or community engagement, we all have a role we can play in reducing stress and
promoting mental wellbeing. The use of unconditional positive regard, acceptance and love are some of the measures we can take to lessen stress and prioritize mental health.
Be a part of creating an opportunity for individuals and organizations to unite in spreading a message of love and understanding. Make love, respect and genuine consideration of others the basis of your daily interactions. Attempt to shift a negative narrative towards a positive one. Keep in mind positive actions and reactions bring about positive changes in most interactions. Recognize and identify the stressors in your life. For example, current events can be stressful and overwhelming. Be mindful, that we are living in difficult times when we are hearing constant negative news updates, possible changes to laws and cuts to programs while wondering what effect it will have on each of us. I encourage those around me to observe openly and steadily and absorb selectively. Acknowledge your limits and honor your emotional boundaries. These days I ask myself what is being cut next, who will be affected by the cuts being made, when and where the next cut will take place. We cannot give up on the power of love thy neighbor. My hope is that humanity is saved and if anything, may future cuts remove the things and actions that cause unwarranted stress. It is important to recognize that small gestures of thoughtfulness, acceptance, respect and consideration go a long way. Advocacy starts with self. It is equally important to set emotional boundaries, practice patience, self-care and self-love. I was reminded recently of the impact worry and stress about the future is having on so many when a man experiencing panic came frantically to my office. Feelings of stress, anxiety, sadness, frustration, helplessness, or emotional fatigue can compromise our ability to make sound decisions, to connect with others, and prioritize what is important to us.
In my role as a professional therapist, I have found April to be an ideal month to address what everybody experiences …stress. Unlike many mental health issues, experiencing stress is a topic most can relate to and will comfortably discuss. What I have learned is that everyone regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, economic status, educational level, class, religion or lifestyle orientation experiences stress as long as they live. Stress in this vein is commonality amongst humanity. In the spirit of this year’s Stress Awareness Month theme #LEADWITHLOVE, may we all focus on highlighting awareness about mental health issues and share fresh perspectives on stress management; may we strengthen interpersonal relationships and community engagement; and may we want and hope for other communities what we want for ourselves. This April, spring forward and lead life with love.
Valarie Garrett’s Journey
LDCC Student turned Five-Star Industry Partner
ARTICLE BY CAMRYN THOMPSON
VALARIE GARRETT RECOGNIZED EARLY IN LIFE THAT nursing was her passion. Now the Director of Nursing (DON) at Princeton Place of Ruston, this Louisiana Delta Community College (LDCC) Alumnus continues to pursue her passion for allied health. Born and raised in Lincoln Parish, Garrett attended Quitman High School. During high school, she worked as a student assistant at a hospital, immersing herself in clinical settings that planted the seeds of deep respect and passion for nursing. “I grew up in the medical world,” Garrett reflected. “Nurses were everything. That inspired me—working with the nurses and seeing what they did.”
Garrett also attributed her affinity for nursing to several family members who worked in the medical field. Among them was her mother, Rose Kari, and as an emergency room nurse, Garrett described her as the most influential role model in her life. “My mom always motivated me to do more. She went to nursing school while raising four kids,” Garrett recalled. “She has so much experience. She knows everything.”
After finishing high school, Garrett worked as both a monitor technician and a ward clerk, further cultivating more experience in hospital settings. After completing her Electrocardiogram and Phlebotomy courses, she decided her next step was the Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program at LDCC Ruston. Garrett’s family was growing at this point as she was preparing to have her firstborn child, Brody. With the support and encouragement of her mother and her loving husband of 17 years, Matthew Garrett, she graduated from the LPN program in 2014.
Garrett continued working as an LPN for the next several years. During this time, she and her husband welcomed their second child, Baylor. In 2020, Garrett decided it was time to further her education and become a Registered Nurse (RN). “It was in my blood. It was my calling,” she explained. Garrett enrolled in the LPN to RN Bridge program at LDCC Winnsboro and began the next chapter in her healthcare career.
Concurrently with this step, Garrett began working at Princeton Place of Ruston, where she is still employed. A friend who worked at the nursing home encouraged Garrett to help as an LPN during Hurricane Ida in 2021, as elderly evacuees in need of care were being placed in facilities in North Louisiana. “The staff at Princeton Place was overwhelmed, with busloads of evacuees arriving. The moment my friend reached out, I finished my class for the day and jumped right in,” she remembered.
When Garrett joined the Princeton Place staff in 2021, the facility held a one-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
(CMS). Amid a leadership transition, she was offered the role of DON after completing the RN Program at LDCC Winnsboro. After careful reflection, she accepted the opportunity—a decision that shaped her career and leadership legacy. “When I took this spot, I said to myself, ‘You know what? There’s a lot of potential here,’” Garrett said.
Recognizing the potential in her workplace and taking pride in her new position, Garrett took action. Over the past three years, she focused on enhancing patient care and successfully built a fully staffed team, eliminating the need for external hiring agencies. Because of Garrett’s thorough experience at multiple healthcare facilities, she refined her leadership skills by listening diligently to her staff, as well as balancing tasks through delegation. Garrett also remained deeply connected to patient care, regularly assisting on the nursing home floor and continuing her work at Northeast Louisiana Medical Center to keep her bedside skills sharp. This hands-on approach allowed her to lead more effectively, keeping her connected to the realities of frontline healthcare.
Thanks to Garrett’s leadership and dedication, Princeton Place of Ruston transformed over the past three years—recently earning a prestigious five-star rating from CMS. When asked about the key to the facility’s growth, Garrett credited her team: “I am so proud of our new rating. Princeton Place’s transformation is all thanks to our incredible staff. We have an outstanding administrator, a wonderful certified nurse assistant supervisor, a fantastic minimum data set coordinator, and exceptional assistant directors of nursing. A big shoutout to my infection control team and wound care nurse as well—this success is truly a team effort.” She also praised her CNAs and nurses for the incredible work they do every day.
In reflecting on her journey, Garrett emphasizes the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and the power of a strong team. Her success at Princeton Place of Ruston is a testament to her unwavering commitment to both patient care and staff development. From LDCC LPN student to DON at a five-star rated facility, Garrett’s story demonstrates the power of determination and hard work. As she looks ahead, Garrett remains focused on further elevating Princeton Place and continuing to prove that anything is possible with passion, hard work, and the support of a great team.
The LDCC LPN Program will be accepting applications at the following locations and semesters: West Monroe Fall 2025, West Monroe Spring 2026, Ruston Spring 2026, Winnsboro Spring 2026, Bastrop Summer 2026, Tallulah Summer 2026, and Lake Providence Summer 2026. Find more information at www.ladelta.edu.
THE NATION RESTORED
by Guy Miller, Vice Chair Emeritus, Chennault Aviation and Military Museum
One of the bloodiest and most pivotal conflicts in U.S. history effectively ended on April 9. This event took place in a small, rural Virginia village and was a moment of both military and political significance which encompassed reconciliation, forgiveness and the tragic consequences of a war fought between two factions of a Nation which had divided itself. This event was the surrender of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia.
By the spring of 1865, the Confederate States of America were in a state of collapse. After nearly four years of intense fighting, Confederate forces were exhausted and thinned by casualties and desertions. The suffering state of the Southern armies, combined with depleted resources, meant their ability to maintain organized resistance was faltering. The Union army had successfully gained the upper hand by winning decisive battles and slowly tightening its grip on the Confederacy as Union forces pushed deeper into Southern territory. The fall of major Confederate cities such as Atlanta in September 1864 and Richmond in April 1865 were proof of the decline of the Confederacy’s military and political infrastructure.
General Robert E. Lee, commander of the Army of Northern Virginia, was one of the most skilled and revered military leaders of the Confederacy. Despite his successes in earlier battles, by early 1865 he found his army surrounded, outnumbered and in retreat. Although he attempted to join forces with the remnants of General Joseph E. Johnston’s army in North Carolina, General Lee and the Confederate government both knew that the war was nearly over.
Grant pursued Lee relentlessly after his army captured Richmond in early April. The Union troops successfully cut off key supply lines to the Confederacy and Lee’s army was running out of food, ammunition, and reinforcements. The Confederate forces were surrounded by Union soldiers who were closing in on their position from all directions.
After several days of fighting and retreating, Lee realized that he had no hope of successfully escaping or of continuing the war. At this point, his options were limited. Rather than facing complete destruction of his army, Lee decided that his best course of action was to seek a negotiated surrender. On April 9, 1865, Lee was escorted to the McLean House in Appomattox Court House, Virginia where Grant was currently staying. Grant had chosen the location in part because it was a neutral, relatively remote place away from the larger Union military presence.
Lee arrived at the McLean House at approximately 1:00 p.m. that day. Wearing his full military uniform, he was a tall, dignified figure and his appearance underscored the gravity of the moment. Grant was dressed in a private’s uniform with his general’s insignia which reflected his pragmatic approach to the war. The meeting between these two leaders of opposing sides was not one of personal animosity but rather of mutual respect for each other’s military
skills and understanding of the realities of the war. The interaction between the two commanders was cordial, even amicable.
General Grant, ever the professional, sought to make the terms of surrender as lenient as possible.
He understood that the nation needed healing and that harsh terms could delay the restoration of peace.
The negotiated terms included the following key provisions:
• Lee’s men would be paroled, meaning they would not be sent to prison camps but would be allowed to return home.
• Confederate soldiers were to hand over their weapons and military equipment.
• Confederate officers were allowed to keep their sidearms.
• Soldiers were allowed to keep their personal horses, which were vital for farm work and transportation, and any private property; a concession aimed at allowing an easier return to civilian life.
• Lee’s men were also given rations for their travels.
• Union troops would no longer interfere with Confederate soldiers or civilians.
Grant’s approach was a significant departure from the harsh terms usually applied to defeated armies. He was motivated by his belief that a swift and dignified surrender would help heal animosities and restore peace.
After the formalities were concluded, the two generals signed the official surrender document. The surrender was not just a military act but a rare moment of respect and humanity in the midst of a long and bloody conflict.
The Confederacy’s Army of Northern Virginia, the most significant military force remaining in the South, was now officially defeated. For Lee, the surrender was a personal loss but also a recognition that further resistance would only prolong suffering and hardship for his people.
News of the surrender spread quickly and although some Confederate forces continued to fight for a short time, the surrender at Appomattox Court House was the symbolic end of the war because it was an admission that the Confederate States of America had ceased to be a functioning entity. Lee’s surrender also set the stage for the process of reintegrating the Southern states into the Union. Grant’s magnanimous terms were designed not only to end the war but also to provide for a post-war reconstruction process that would not be mired in bitterness.
Although, Grant’s decision to treat the Confederate soldiers with respect and dignity helped prevent further violent interactions in the immediate aftermath of the war, the challenges of rebuilding the nation, especially in the Southern states, continued for years to come. Reconstruction would become one of the most difficult and turbulent periods in American history. But that is a story for another day.
“God put people in my life who invested in me and helped me to understand my own potential.”
~ Darian Atkins
DARIAN
MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY
Darian Williams Atkins has lived a very full life, and she’s not finished yet! She grew up in Gary, Indiana, under the watchful eyes of loving family members who were determined that she would have that full life. It was love that brought her to Louisiana where she has lived all of her adult life. Here in our community many organizations – for profit and non-profit -- have benefited from her leadership and uplifting presence. Whether working in a paid position as she built an impressive career, or volunteering in an unpaid position as she built an equally-impressive community presence, Darian has made a significant difference in the lives of many. For her outstanding work in the communications field and her dedication to our community, Darian Williams Atkins is our April 2025 BayouIcon. article by Georgiann Potts
arian Atkins readily admits that she “grew up” in Louisiana even though she was already 20 when she moved here from Gary, Indiana, her hometown. Other than a brief stint in San Diego, California, from the 10th grade t0 midway through the 12th, Darian has lived nowhere else. Everywhere that she has lived has helped mold Darian into the remarkable woman she is today. And at every place, Darian has encountered strong individuals who have helped her navigate life.
DThrough that life, Darian has seen unrealized promise and potential in many women and has been saddened. “Much like the average person, I faced challenges growing up and later as an adult,” Darian explains. “Some things were by my own making, and some not. But God put people in my life who invested in me and helped me to understand my own potential.” Gary, Indiana, and the Jackson 5 Darian was born in Gary, Indiana, but she came along a little late. She lived much of her young life there with her great-grandmother Catherine Williams and her great-aunt Alice Haywood. Their home was on the 2500 block of Jackson Street. Just two blocks away at the 2700 block of Jackson Street was the home of the Jackson 5 family. By the time Darian was living there, the Jacksons had moved. However, they were living there when her mother Tonya Williams McGhee was living on that street.
ATKINS
In spite of that near brush with fame, Darian’s childhood was anything but uneventful. Her great-grandmother and great-aunt made certain that Darian was always occupied doing something worthwhile.
When the school year was over and other kids were mostly playing and loafing, Darian was attending summer school for the first part of the summer. Her grades were fine, but her great-grandmother and great-aunt made certain that Darian didn’t forget anything she had learned. They understood “enrichment” before the greater education community did! Neither of them had gone past the 8th grade, so they were determined that Darian complete school. “From the time I sat in that little red highchair in a kitchen that was likely no bigger than 8X8, they encouraged me to ‘get my education’,” Darian says with love.
The next part of summer found Darian in Bible School. “Great-Aunt Alice was one of the adults who helped with Bible School, so I was there well before it started and well after it ended each day,” Darian remembers. “I was a junior usher and a member of the youth choir.” Throughout the year, when Darian mentioned that she was bored, their stock response was, “Read a book.” Today Darian credits her love for reading having its beginning there.
Growing Up in the North
The family had one television and one radio. They would enjoy those together. Although Darian was not as enamored with the country, jazz, classical, or gospel music that her family enjoyed listening to, she learned to fade the music out and turn the radio to a station more to her liking.
Darian, the oldest, has three siblings – two sisters and a brother. One sister (Lonisha) lives in Indiana and the other sister (Mae) lives in Monroe. Her brother lives in Indiana. In 2020, Darian discovered that she also had a half-brother, Justin, who was born when Darian was 16. She had no idea that he existed. As with so many, an Ancestry DNA text confirmed their kinship. He also lives in Indiana. What Shall I Be?
FAMILY MATTERS
Above: Darian Atkins pictured with her husband, Lawrence, children and grandchildren. Below: Darian pictured with her assistants throughout the years of working at Louisiana Delta Community College.
Much entertainment came during summer nights when the family would sit out on the porch, talking to their neighbors who were also sitting out on their porches. “I was always hopeful to hear a bit of gossip, but they were really good at refraining from such talk in the presence of children,” Darian explains. “I learned to eavesdrop really early in life!”
Darian’s extended family on both sides was large with many living in the same neighborhood. She attended school with lots of cousins. From the time Darian was 4-years old until she was in the 9th grade, Darian’s father James Smith Jr. was in prison. One year after his release, he was killed. “For the longest time I focused on all that I didn’t have, but one day I grew tired of crying over it all and decided from now on I would focus on all the good I had and the people God had planted in my life,” Darian says. “I could’ve and should’ve, by all accounts, been a statistic, but there were other plans for me.”
Some in her father’s family stepped up to fill the gap as well as they could. Her Aunt Marilyn and Uncle Herbert Hicks were the model for a “whole” family that Darian looked to. Uncle Herbert walked Darian down the aisle when she married, and Aunt Marilyn pointed out that Darian’s husband was a fellow very much like her Herbert.
Darian’s earliest career aspiration was to become a ballerina. She took ballet and jazz classes and loved them. At one point she auditioned for the Nutcracker Ballet Suite in Chicago at the Arie Crown Theater. She was a scholarship student at the Ruth Page Ballet School and got a part in the Nutcracker party scene. “It was my first and only paid role,” Darien says with pride. “I thought I was big stuff! I was 12-years old.” Traveling back and forth to Chicago for classes proved too much for Darian’s mother so that was the last year she danced.
Darian admits to not knowing what she might do after high school graduation. On her mother’s side there were mostly single women with children. On her dad’s side, there were some family members in education and others with careers in cosmetology. One paternal aunt, Odessa Roby, owned the only beauty college in Gary for years.
“She was the first African American to serve on the State Board of Cosmetology and was a true business woman,” Darian says. “I spent quite a bit of time around her—in the shop and in her home.”
Darian’s Aunt Marilyn and Uncle Herbert owned a Bressler’s 33 Flavors ice cream shop where Darian often worked. A Wife and Mother
What Darian did know was that she wanted to marry early and have a career. She certainly wanted children, but not too soon. She met Lawrence through her godmother Maxine Atkins who happened to be his cousin-in-law. Lawrence was living in Bastrop where his parents were from. He had moved there from the south side of Chicago where he had been reared. Darian’s godmother encouraged her to reach out to Lawrence by writing him a letter because the two “were both young and Christians” and could “encourage one another.” Darian wrote a letter but didn’t hear back. About a month later, her godmother suggested that Darian write Lawrence a second letter. Darian quickly declined because she felt that might make her look “desperate.”
At the time, Darian was working full-time, heavily involved with her church, and she didn’t need anything extra to fill her time. Plus, she wasn’t looking for a romantic adventure. Her godmother countered by saying that the young man’s father had just passed away and that “he probably needs a friend and some encouragement.” “She played the death card,” Darian says. “That basically twisted my arm.” She wrote a second letter.
After several weeks, in February 1988, Lawrence called her. They shared subsequent phone calls, sometimes falling asleep on the phone because of the late hour. After two in-person visits, the two
became engaged and married in February, 1989. “Boy! If this were my kid’s life, I would’ve cited all of the reasons why this notion was crazy! But here we are 36 years later . . .” says Darian with a chuckle. Darian describes Lawrence as the “Welcome ray of sunshine in my life when we met. I needed the stability, loyalty, and commitment he provided. He significantly played a part in helping me to free myself to be me.”
Darian had indeed married early, and later began taking classes at ULM when she and Lawrence married. All was going to plan until four months after their marriage when Darian and Lawrence discovered they were going to become parents. Although the pregnancy wasn’t planned, Darian found an upside to the situation. “I was breaking a generational pattern,” Darian says. “I started a family with my husband.” There was a downside, however. “I was not ready,” she admits.
Ready or not, daughter Alicia was born to delighted and proud (if apprehensive) parents. However, when Alicia was 4-months old, Darian became pregnant with son Ashton. When Ashton was 3-months old, a third baby – daughter Amber -- was on the way. All three children brought joy to their young parents.
When Alicia was born, her parents noticed some delays in her development. When she was 2, she had a seizure. Later it was confirmed that Alicia had epilepsy and other developmental issues. Alicia today loves animals and babies, her mother says, and has a strong sense of humor. “She loves her brother and sister dearly, and fiercely protects them. Although she can be angry with them, she doesn’t want anyone else to be,” Darian says.
Ashton had to be pushed some growing up, but has become focused and is thriving. Today he is married to Jasmine Griffin and they have two sons. He will soon have an MBA and is certified as a project manager. His sister Amber always wanted to be #1 and never needed any pushing. She and Ashton competed throughout their childhood. Today she is also married to Derek Deutsch and they
have two daughters. She earned her Master’s in clinical counseling and practices in West Monroe.
And Then A Career
When Darian enrolled at ULM, her plan was to major in something relatively easy that she liked and then get a degree.
“Then I’d talk my way into the job I wanted,” Darian remembers. She initially majored in Interior Design and was a year from graduating when she enrolled in her first speech class. She was smitten. “I didn’t know there was a whole major dedicated to ‘talking’. An entirely new world opened up to me!” Darian remembers. The following semester she changed her major.
Several teachers encouraged Darian as she pursued a degree in Speech Communications. Sharon Roach, a teacher at ULM, successfully recruited Darian. Other speech instructors who encouraged Darian were Dr. Loeb, Dr. Thameling, and Dr Herbert. An English teacher, Linda Hart-Berkemeyer, taught an African American literature class that Darian enjoyed. “She was Caucasian and teaching an African American literature course,” Darian says. “She was not who I was expecting when I walked through the door. She won my heart and those of countless others as the semester went on. She was more than equipped to teach that subject.”
Later in a speech class, Darian was assigned to go on an interview in a field that she had interest. Darian chose Public Relations and through that, met Cindy Ingram and interned with her. “That was the beginning of my walk towards a public relations career,” Darian says. “Cindy was excellent to shadow, extremely personable, and knowledgeable. She had the perfect temperament for mentoring.”
Darian’s first job after earning her degree was a communications position with Girl Scouts Silver Waters Council. She worked there for five years until 2008 when the national organization merged councils and Louisiana went from five to three. Darian then became the new Director of Public Relations which she held for two more years.
Feeling the need for a new challenge, Darian applied for Director of Public Relations at Louisiana Delta Community College in Monroe and got it.
During her time as Director of Public Relations, she assumed a community liaison role. In 2017, her official title was upgraded to Executive Director of Community and Public Relations. Among the many accomplishments during her tenure there – including obtaining her Master’s degree – perhaps the most significant was helping LDCC undergo a rebranding that communicated its unique place in our communities.
Finding A Way to Help
Even as she was rearing her children, supporting her husband’s pursuits, and growing her own career, Darian still found time to offer to help in ways that would make her community better. She believes that both the need to help and the feeling of responsibility to do so were modeled for her when she was a child. She lived in a neighborhood where everyone knew each other. Children minded neighbors just as they did adults in their own families. “People looked after one another and cared for each other,” Darian says. “I remember my great-grandmother visiting and taking care of people who were ill in the family and in the neighborhood. She and my great-aunt cooked for and sat with people. I didn’t realize that I was learning what community and volunteerism means.”
The list of organizations that Darian has aligned herself with as a community volunteer is very impressive. She has served on numerous boards including Ascent, Masur Museum, Children’s Coalition, Ouachita Business Alliance, and the Wellspring where she served as Chair. Additionally, she served as president of the Junior League of Monroe. This community has been the lucky recipient of her volunteer efforts combined with her seemingly insatiable energy.
The Next Adventure
As Darian retires from her position at LDCC, she and Lawrence are preparing for their next adventure – a move to Texas. Darian’s mother moved down to live with them last fall and will be enjoying this new adventure, too. There are others in the family living in the area where they are moving, so Darian is especially looking forward to spending time with them.
Former tennis player and motivational speaker Roger Crawford once said, “Being challenged in life is inevitable, being defeated is optional.” He might very well have been describing Darian’s personal motto. She is living her life well, accepting challenges when they come, but refusing to settle for defeat. That special spirit has enriched her life -- and the lives of countless others.
Atomic Habits by James Clear
“Some people spend their entire lives waiting for the time to be right to make an improvement.”
Like so many of us, spring brings feelings of renewal and selfassessment. Along with decluttering my environment, I begin to evaluate my behaviors. James Clear’s book Atomic Habits presents strategies for breaking bad habits and creating positive habits in their place. The title is alluring because of the word “atomic,” implying something large and perhaps destructive. But Clear tells readers that “atomic” refers to parts of a whole, suggesting that little changes add up to big results. And that is essentially the book’s message, incremental steps, hour after hour and day after day, are the only way to achieve true and lasting change.
Clear identifies four laws (adjectives) for habitual change. Make it obvious. Make it attractive. Make it easy. And make it satisfying. And therein lies my issue with this book - repetition, tireless and exhausting repetition. Many of Clear’s points seem “obvious,” for lack of a better term, though some readers may need the structured framing to induce genuine change. If you need a point drilled into you for inspiration and motivation, then you might find this book useful. Another problem lies in Clear’s impetus for this book. He identifies as self-motivated and selfaware, chasing constant self-improvement. In detailing his journey and what works for him, he is talking to people already like him, who I imagine don’t struggle with this problem. Had Clear not been inclined to these practices,
had he overcome some character flaw or inherent laziness, I might take his points more seriously. His matter-of-fact delivery of his message suggests that following his method is easy for everyone, which we know is not accurate. Clear scratches the surface but his analysis lacks depth. I believe more research and better-sourced material could have alleviated Clear’s issues here.
I was intrigued, though, by Clear’s analysis of identity, encouraging readers to investigate who they are alongside who they want to become. He suggests altering inner dialogue, like reframing “I want to be.” into “I am.” - simple, yet effective. Clear writes, “Your actions reveal how badly you want something. If you keep saying something is a priority but you never act on it, then you don’t really want it. It’s time to have an honest conversation with yourself. Your actions reveal your true motivations.” But interesting points like this are few and far between, not to mention buried in useless text. I kept thinking while reading, “This could have been a TedTalk.” And guess what - it IS. My recommendation is to watch the TedTalk on YouTube, and supplement the information with the book as needed - though I doubt you will find it necessary.
“Be the designer of your world and not merely the consumer of it.”
REVIEW BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE
Yellow Calla Lily
If you’ve never considered a calla lily as a houseplant, now’s the time! Known for its trumpet-shaped blooms, this stunning plant thrives beautifully in a container.
WATER:
Calla lilies need consistently moist soil but should never be waterlogged—water them when the top inch of soil feels dry.
SUNLIGHT:
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate partial sun, needing at least six hours of light daily.
SOIL:
Calla lilies need well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH for healthy growth.
Styled by Kate Ashley
| Photography by Kelly Moore Clark
Spring Into a Beautiful Smile
With Caples & Robinson Orthodontics
SPRING IS IN THE AIR, AND THERE’S NO BETTER TIME TO refresh your look with a confident, beautiful smile! As the seasons change, many families start thinking about summer plans, vacations, and big life events like graduations and weddings. What better way to prepare for these moments than by beginning your journey to a healthier, straighter smile at Caples & Robinson Orthodontics?
Since 1993, Caples & Robinson Orthodontics has been dedicated to creating beautiful, confident smiles across Northeast Louisiana. With five convenient locations in Monroe, West Monroe, Ruston, Bastrop, and Mangham, they proudly serve the community with a passion for exceptional orthodontic care. Dr. Ricky Caples, Dr. Chris Robinson, and Dr. Cammie Laird bring years of expertise and a shared commitment to helping patients of all ages achieve the smiles of their dreams.
Why Spring is the Perfect Time for Orthodontic Treatment
Springtime is a season of renewal, growth, and fresh starts, making it the perfect time to begin your orthodontic journey. As the days get longer and brighter, there’s no better moment to invest in a confident, healthy smile. Whether you’re considering traditional braces or the discreet convenience of Invisalign clear aligners, starting treatment now sets you on the path to noticeable results by summer. Plus, with school schedules winding down and a more relaxed routine ahead, scheduling appointments becomes easier and less disruptive. Take advantage of this season of new beginnings and make your smile transformation a priority!
Free Consultations: Your First Step Toward a Confident Smile
At Caples & Robinson Orthodontics, your smile journey starts with a complimentary consultation. During this visit, Dr. Caples, Dr. Robinson, or Dr. Laird will conduct a thorough evaluation using state-of-the-art technology to determine the best treatment plan for your unique needs. Whether you’re a teen getting braces for the first time or an adult looking for a discreet solution like clear aligners, their team ensures a comfortable, customized experience.
If you struggle with crooked, uneven, or misaligned teeth or jaws, orthodontic treatment can provide the solution you need for a healthier, more confident smile. The length of your treatment will vary based on your individual needs, and during your consultation with Dr. Caples or Dr. Robinson, we will discuss your options and provide an estimated timeline. Several factors influence treatment duration, including early orthodontic intervention, the type of treatment selected—such as braces,
elastics, or clear aligners—and patient compliance with care instructions. At Caples & Robinson Orthodontics, we take pride in offering advanced, comfortable, and accelerated orthodontic solutions to help you achieve your ideal smile as efficiently as possible.
Straighten Your Smile with Spark Aligners
Caples & Robinson Orthodontics proudly offers Spark aligners, a clear, removable alternative to traditional braces. This innovative treatment helps correct crowded, gapped, or misaligned teeth while allowing you to eat, brush, and floss normally.
Spark aligners are clear, removable aligners worn for at least 22 hours a day. They can be taken out for meals and oral hygiene, making them a comfortable, convenient, and easy-to-use option for straightening your teeth.
Beyond aesthetics, Spark aligners improve oral health by reducing the risk of tooth decay, wear, and gum disease. The process begins with a consultation, followed by a 3D model to map out your personalized treatment plan. Custom aligners are changed every two weeks to gradually straighten teeth.
Spark aligners provide a comfortable, convenient way to achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Contact us to schedule a consultation!
A Legacy of Beautiful Smiles
Caples & Robinson Orthodontics has been a trusted name in the Monroe community for years, providing exceptional care with a patientcentered approach. Their team is dedicated to making every step of your orthodontic journey enjoyable, from your first consultation to the day you reveal your brand-new smile. With their advanced technology, outstanding customer service, flexible payment options, extensive education and experience, same-day appointments, and multi-child discounts, it’s no surprise that Caples & Robinson is consistently recognized as the Best Orthodontist in the Bayou Buzz Awards and a Top Doc Award winner year after year.
Don’t wait—spring forward into a confident new look! Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward the smile you’ve always wanted.
For more information or to book your appointment, visit caplesrobinsonortho.com or call their office today!
BAYOU KIDZ
Easter Memories
article by Cindy G. Foust
Happy month of April Fool’s to my devoted readers of this wonderful magazine. I’m going to start this month with a question for you: Does anyone really observe April Fool’s Day anymore? I never hear anyone talk about a great joke they played, so I’m thinking it might be one of those holidays that has just lost its luster. Kind of like National Burrito Day. It hasn’t always been lackluster in my family, though, like the one time, when Scott and I first got married, that I changed out the sugar bowl he used for coffee and filled it up with salt. It was funny until it wasn’t and he was spewing and sputtering for a minute...or two. On another April Fool’s Day, me and my two sisters and I (it always sounds better to have a “team” of culprits) put a plastic spider on the handle of the mailbox, you know, to play a simple prank on the mail carrier. Well, I don’t think she really observed this holiday either, because she wrote a sort of ugly note to my parents and said she was deathly afraid of spiders and she was sick with panic and fear when she pulled up to our mailbox, and it made her almost quit her job. That was kind of terrible. Oh, and we kind of got in trouble. So, no, I’ve just never really had good luck trying to observe this specific holiday, and my memories, well, they are kind of bad.
But, Easter, on the other hand, another holiday on the calendar for this month, now I could fill the pages of this magazine with my Easter memories. I guess this year, since eggs are so expensive, everyone will be dying potatoes, or maybe rocks. In case anyone needs to be brought up to speed on my column, we are a holiday family, rich with traditions, so if I let my mind just wander a bit, I can get pretty nostalgic pretty quick. Easter was no different than the other holidays, and traditions have always been strict, like having the Easter Egg Hunt at my grandmother’s house. For years, we dyed eggs after lunch, and the older family members hid them, probably several times before the day was over. As we got older, we began hiding them for the younger kids. One of my top “five” favorite holiday memories would have to be the year me and my two sisters were getting ready to hide the eggs, and my late sister, Angel, disappeared on us. We waited and waited...and finally decided to just start hiding the eggs, because the younger kids were screaming. Off we
went, ready to play the Easter Bunny, getting the 300 eggs hidden, and still no Angel. Where in the world? Somebody finally let the little ones out and we are all in the front yard watching the craziness that ensues, when suddenly, without warning, we look down the hill and we see this 6’2” Easter bunny hopping down the “bunny trail.” Except it wasn’t just any Easter bunny, it was the “Michael Jackson” Easter bunny. You heard me right, Angel had snuck home (my parent’s lived right next door to my grandparents), and dressed up like her then idol, Michael Jackson (readers, don’t judge, we all might not agree with his sort of strange and quacky lifestyle, we have all loved us some Billie Jean or some Thriller, right?) Yes, Angel hopped right through the yard, in her homemade costume, complete with a sequined glove, and moonwalked her way into my top five holiday memories. Those were the days.
Fast forward and I find myself writing about my memories for my readers. Holidays give us frequent opportunities to start new traditions, or participate and enhance old ones. This year, things will be a little different in our family because my little baby granddaughter love will have her first basket from Lulu. Incidentally, she’s about to start walking, or so we think, but it’s too late because she has already walked her way right into our hearts. Heck, I might even try to eclipse Angel and dress up like Elvis Presley bunny rabbit and play Ain’t Nothing But a Hound Dog for her. That’s a joke, my kids would definitely leave this family and move to Montana. What about you, readers? Are your minds racing with wonderful ideas on enhancing your current Easter traditions or are you inspired to create new ones? If you haven’t already done so, I encourage you to take a little time and create some special plans, or work at strengthening the traditions you already have in place. Happy Easter, readers! I hope your holiday will be filled with wonderful, quality time with your family, good food, great old (or new) traditions and maybe even a few Cadbury eggs.
Cindy G. Foust is a wife, mom, author and blogger. You can find her blog at the alphabetmom.com for weekly columns about home life, parenting, small business stories and insight with a smidgen of literacy. Give her a like or follow on Facebook and Instagram.
Serenity Care Providers
Receives The 2025 Best Of Home Care® – Top 100 Leader In Experience Award
SERENITY CARE PROVIDERS RECEIVED THE distinguished 2025 Best of Home Care® –Top 100 Leader in Experience Award from Activated Insights, formerly Home Care Pulse, the leading firm in experience management for postacute care. The Top 100 Leader in Experience Award is the highest recognition and is only awarded to 100 home care businesses in North America, and this is Serenity Care Providers second time earning a coveted spot among the Top 100 Best of Home Care.
The Top 100 must consistently rank among the highest in 10 or more quality metrics. Over 3000 home care businesses participate in the Activated Insights Experience Management program, and as a Top 100 Leader in Experience Award recipient, Serenity Care Providers is recognized among the very best home care providers.
But Serenity Care Providers didn’t stop with the Top 100 Leader in Experience Award. Out of the over 3000 participating home care businesses, only fifteen home care providers across North America received all five awards from Activated Insights. Serenity Care Providers was among these fifteen home care providers, and the only recipient in Louisiana to receive all five awards! The five awards presented to Serenity Care Providers are:
• TOP 100 LEADER IN EXPERIENCE
• LEADER IN EXPERIENCE
• PROVIDER OF CHOICE
• EMPLOYER OF CHOICE
• LEADER IN TRAINING
Committed to providing quality home care services, in 2019, Serenity Care Providers began using Activated Insights, formerly Home Care Pulse, to conduct client and employee satisfaction ratings. Because surveys can be done anonymously, the feedback received is more honest and accurate. Serenity Care Providers management listens and incorporates client and employee feedback to gain deep actionable insights that can influence higher quality care and foster a more satisfied work environment. Receiving these awards demonstrates Serenity Care Providers’ long-term dedication to excellent care and quality improvement.
Bud Meadows, Chief Executive Officer of Activated Insights says, “When we see agencies like Serenity Care Providers that have so effectively provided outstanding care and employment experiences,
we know we’re on the right track. Serenity Care Providers has worked extremely hard to prioritize high-quality care and employment, and their work hasn’t gone unnoticed. These awards allow them to show proof of quality to potential clients and caregivers.”
Serenity Care Providers was started in 2013 by Robin Cox. The company employs an average of 70 employees and serves clients in Louisiana’s Region 8. “The Top 100 Awards list is comprised of many franchises such as Visiting Angels, SYNERGY Home Care, BrightStar, Comfort Keepers, and others. Serenity Care Providers is an independent, locally owned and operated provider of home care services. Moving up five spots to number 69 is quite an achievement and I’m just so very proud of the whole team!” says Robin.
Serenity Care Providers Mission is to provide distinct quality, individualized, compassionate care that enhances the lives of those we serve.
The vision at Serenity Care Providers is to demonstrate their servant heart by compassionately meeting the needs of people in our communities. They envision an organization where employees are respected, valued, and inspired as they work together to understand, connect, and care for people during their most vulnerable time. Their commitment is that Serenity Care Providers will be recognized as an honest, compassionate, and effective provider of home care services in Louisiana.
Serenity Care Providers understands the challenges and concerns the aging population experiences. Their services are designed to enhance the client’s life while giving friends and family the peace of mind that comes with knowing their loved one is safe. If you or your loved one needs assistance completing daily tasks such as bathing, grooming, meal preparation, or just companionship, call Serenity Care Providers at 318.600.3453 or visit their website to learn more about their services.
To find award-winning companies or details regarding the awards, you can go to their website at www.serenitycareproviders.com, or visit Activated Insights website at awards.activatedinsights.com.
Tropical Moscow Mule
This tropical twist on a Moscow Mule is bursting with bright citrus and refreshing ginger, making it the perfect sip for spring. Topped with fresh mint, it’s a zesty way to welcome warmer days.
WHAT YOU NEED:
2 oz. vodka Juice from small lime
1/3 cup orange juice
1/3 cup pineapple juice
Ginger beer
Pineapple wedge, garnish
Fresh mint, garnish
Fill a copper mug with ice, and add the vodka, lime juice, orange juice and pineapple juice. Stir to mix all ingredients. Top with ginger beer and serve with a pineapple wedge and fresh mint.
Styled by Kate Ashley
| Photography by Kelly Moore Clark
Dr. Nathan Morris, MD
Functional Medicine Expert and Medical Detective
DR. NATHAN MORRIS, MD, IS
A DISTINGUISHED
functional medical physician. He continued his medical education at Louisiana State University (LSU) Medical School in Shreveport, where he obtained his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. His medical training continued with a family practice residency at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. During his residency, he demonstrated exceptional leadership, serving as Chief Resident, a role that highlighted his clinical expertise and mentorship abilities.
Upon completing his residency, Dr. Morris was recruited to Oxford, Ohio, where he founded a family practice that would grow into a thriving 10-provider clinic. His success as a family physician was not just defined by patient care but also his commitment to expanding access to comprehensive healthcare services within the community.
Dr. Morris’s career took a transformative turn when his son was diagnosed with autism. Faced with this personal health challenge, he embarked on a relentless search for solutions beyond conventional medicine. His exploration led him to investigate the profound impact of diet, supplements, and lifestyle modifications on health outcomes. Through a dedicated and science-based approach, Dr. Morris not only helped his son’s autism go into remission but also discovered a new calling—functional medicine.
Motivated by these successes, Dr. Morris became certified in functional medicine and developed a flourishing integrative practice in Oxford, Ohio. His approach focused on identifying and treating the root causes of chronic health conditions through personalized care, rather than solely managing symptoms.
In 2018, Dr. Morris’s expertise was recognized on a national level when he was appointed Chief Medical Advisor for Pure Encapsulations, the #1 brand of professional-grade supplements recommended by healthcare providers. In this role, he developed a ground breaking genetic platform designed to assess genetic polymorphisms and their implications for personalized supplement needs. His work allowed clinicians to better understand how genetic variations influence health and nutritional requirements, leading to more precise and effective patient care.
As a prominent voice in functional medicine, Dr. Morris has lectured both nationally and internationally on a wide range of
topics, including genetics, inflammation, and gut health’s critical roles in chronic disease. His expertise expanded further into the fields of Lyme disease and mold toxicity, becoming a sought-after specialist in these often-overlooked conditions. His philosophy evolved to emphasize that “MD” should stand for “Medical Detective,” reflecting his belief in uncovering the hidden causes of illness through in-depth investigation and personalized care strategies.
Dr. Morris also became a recognized authority in hormone management, understanding the vital role hormones play in overall health and the consequences of hormonal imbalances on chronic conditions. His holistic approach to patient care continues to empower individuals to take charge of their health through comprehensive, science-based strategies.
After five successful years of practicing functional medicine in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Dr. Morris is returning to his Louisiana roots in March 2025. He will begin practicing functional medicine in Monroe, Louisiana, where he looks forward to being closer to his family and his fiancée, Lindsey Lowe. His return marks not just a professional transition but a personal homecoming, as he plans to embrace his Southern heritage, enjoy horseback riding, and once again manage a farm—reconnecting with the lifestyle that shaped his early years.
Dr. Morris’s journey from a small-town Louisiana upbringing to a nationally respected functional medicine expert speaks to his relentless curiosity, compassion, and commitment to transformative patient care. His work continues to inspire both patients and fellow healthcare providers, proving that true healing comes from addressing the root causes of illness with personalized, holistic strategies.
Bunny Tales
These adorable bunny portraits, crafted from recycled egg cartons, are a fun and eco-friendly Easter activity for kids. With a little paint, paper, and creativity, children can transform simple materials into cute, bunny faces perfect for Easter.
WHAT YOU NEED:
Paper
Old egg cartons
Posca pens
Start by cutting out your bunny heads and ears out of an egg carton. Next, hot glue a piece of construction paper to a frame background (we used metallic paper). Next, hot glue the bunny faces and ears to the paper. Finally, draw your bunny clothes and embellishments on to the paper. String and hang for an adorable Easter decoration.
Styled by Kate Ashley
Photography by Kelly Moore Clark
Easter Parade
Get ready to decorate for Easter! Kate Ashley creates a stunning spring mantel featuring felt bunnies and white candleholders from Walsworth & Company, Fabergé eggs from Material Things, a white vase from Palette House filled with elegant calla lilies, and gold bunnies from Revival Design & Consign.
STYLED BY KATE ASHLEY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK
DEEPENING YOUR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY
article by jill mouk
Have you struggled to connect with yourself, others or God? Have you been too busy to pray lately? Are you struggling with how to talk to God? Or would you like to deepen your spiritual life? We at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church would like to invite you to journey on our Prayer Labyrinth this Easter. The labyrinth may help you release stress, express gratitude, and seek guidance which fosters a sense of clarity and purpose. It also reinforces mindfulness, helping individuals become more intentional with their actions and decisions. Ultimately, prayer serves as an anchor, grounding you and creating an inner calm despite the demands of a busy life.
Prayer Labyrinths are an ancient practice that Christians and many other faiths have used that allows one to go deeper into their faith and experience prayer. The labyrinth is a maze created with stones or paint on the ground on which individuals walk following directional signs. As one walks toward the center of the Labyrinth one is offered the chance to unburden oneself, letting go of everything that might be weighing them down. In the center of the Labyrinth, one takes time to just be with the God. On the way out of the Labyrinth, one is challenged to take on the joy of praying for others and ways to serve God.
For twenty years St. Paul’s United Methodist Church has offered this unique
Holy Week experience. From Palm Sunday until Holy Saturday a Lenten Prayer Labyrinth is set up in the churches’ fellowship hall. Members of the congregation and friends are invited to come spend an hour with God while they walk the labyrinth privately, with a friend, or with your family.
This prayer labyrinth is an opportunity to experience what mystics call a “thin place.” A thin place is a place of meditation where God feels a little closer. It is almost as if one has quieted oneself and can possibly “touch the face of God.” It is a place where the barrier between heaven and earth seems to disappear, and one can truly sense God’s presence.
We invite people of all faiths to come experience this prayer journey. Individuals or families can walk the labyrinth. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church is located at 1901 Lexington Ave. in Monroe. The Prayer Labyrinth will be located in the church Fellowship Hall. Enter from the Milton Street side of the building. The entrance will be marked. Guidebooks, pens, and journals will be provided for you with instructions on how to walk the Prayer Labyrinth. It will take 30-45 minutes to walk the labyrinth.
The labyrinth will be open 7am to 7pm Monday, April 14th through Friday, April 18th and then from 8am to noon on Saturday, April 19th. If you have questions or want more information, please contact Jill Mouk at the church office 318-322-4454 or email jill@ stpaulsmonroe.com.
We would love to have you join us for worship any Sunday and especially on Easter Sunday April 20th at 9am for our traditional service or 11 am for our contemporary service.
St . Paul’s
THE POWER OF PRAYER
Apple Dental
Explore the Benefits of Botox®
FOR OVER 30 YEARS, DR. MATT SANDERSON HAS dedicated himself to building a state-of-the-art dental practice, focused on providing exceptional care to meet the diverse needs of his busy Louisiana patients.
At Apple Dental, we leverage the latest advancements in technology and treatment to address a wide range of dental and health concerns. For example, Botox® is used to treat several issues, including teeth clenching. In the testimonial below, patient Elaine Booth shares her experience with Dr. Matt Sanderson, detailing her struggle with teeth clenching and the effective solution he provided:
“I struggled with headaches for years! I woke up in the morning with a headache and it continued on and off throughout the days. I work in a medical device sales job and drive a lot. This particular day I remember driving down I-20 and noticed I was clinching my teeth. From that point I became aware of the clinching and came to realize I was clinching most of the day. No matter how much I tried to stop clinching to give my jaw a break, I found myself clinching again – especially during times of high stress. There were times I would wake up with my jaws sore from clinching in the night. I had an appointment for a cleaning coming up with Dr. Sanderson and I asked him if there were any treatments available for this… just knowing he would say no. To my surprise, he said “YES!” He told me about Botox® injections to relax the muscles in the jaw. I asked him how quickly he could do this. The following week I came in. The visit to treat this was very quick and the injections were not painful. It took a couple of weeks to feel the effects, but it continued to improve over time. The headaches stopped! This was life-changing! I’m so thankful for Dr. Sanderson and Apple Dental for always providing such great care for me and my family over the last 30+ years.” Who Can Benefit from Botox®?
While Botox® is most commonly associated with treating wrinkles, it offers a range of benefits for a variety of health conditions as well. At Apple Dental, we use Botox® to address not only cosmetic concerns but also therapeutic issues that can significantly improve your quality of life. Below are some of the conditions we can treat with Botox® to help our patients look and feel their best.
Aesthetic Concerns
As we age, the skin’s natural elasticity diminishes, leading to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. If you’re starting to notice frown lines, forehead wrinkles, or crow’s feet, Botox® may be the perfect solution. By relaxing the facial muscles responsible for these wrinkles, Botox®
smooths the skin and softens these expressions, resulting in a refreshed, youthful appearance. This quick, minimally invasive procedure wwhas become the most widely-used application of Botox® and offers lasting results, making it a popular choice for many patients looking to turn back the clock without undergoing surgery.
Gummy Smile
If you have a high lip line that exposes too much of your gums when you smile, Botox® can help create a more balanced and natural-looking smile. By strategically relaxing the muscles around the lip, Botox® can lower the lip line, reducing the appearance of excess gum tissue. The procedure is quick, non-invasive, and offers immediate results, making it an appealing option for those who are looking to enhance their smile without undergoing more complex surgical procedures.
TMJ Disorder
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) is a condition that can cause significant pain and discomfort due to the hyperactivity of the jaw muscles. For years, treatment options for TMJ have been limited, often involving expensive or invasive procedures. However, Botox® now offers an effective, non-surgical solution. When injected into the muscles surrounding the jaw, Botox® helps to relax these overactive muscles, providing quick and efficient relief from the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ. Many patients experience significant improvements after just one treatment, making Botox® a valuable tool for managing this condition.
Clenching and Grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth clenching and grinding, commonly known as bruxism, is a common issue that can lead to tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches. Botox® can be used to alleviate the force of the muscular contractions involved in bruxism, relaxing the jaw muscles and reducing the associated pain. Botox® injections can be a highly effective adjunct therapy to other treatments, such as night guard appliances, providing a more comprehensive approach to managing bruxism and its symptoms. With Botox, you can experience less discomfort and better protection for your teeth.
Get Started Today
If you’re curious about how Botox® can benefit you, whether for aesthetic purposes or to address a health concern, Apple Dental is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced professionals. We’ll assess your needs and provide personalized recommendations to help you achieve your desired results.
Dress Your Dos Equis
Fun Twists on Your Favorite Mexican Lager
BY DELIA SIMPSON, BRAND MANAGER, CHOICE BRANDS, INC.
THE CUAUHTEMOC MOCTEZUMA BREWERY WAS established in Veracruz, Mexico in 1890 by German immigrant Wilhelm Hasse. In 1897, he brewed Siglo XX, the beer we know today as Dos Equis Ambar. He named the beer Siglo XX to usher in the upcoming 20th century with the Roman numeral “XX” signifying 20 and the Spanish word “Siglo” meaning century. In 1983, the brewery began exporting Dos Equis Ambar and Lager Especial to the United States. By 2009, Dos Equis was declared the fastest growing import in the US.
Whether you prefer your Dos Equis “dressed” or the old fashioned way (straight out of the bottle), there are many ways to enjoy it. Dressed often means lime and salt on the neck of the bottle, but there are many variations. Some use Tajin or Chamoy as well. With Cinco de Mayo on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to experiment with your favorite Mexican beer. Check out these fun Cinco cocktail recipes and tag Choice Brands on social media if you make them at home.
Michelada
Ingredients:
Aleppo salt
1 ½ oz. lime juice
5 dashes of your favorite Mexican hot sauce
2 oz. tomato juice
Pinch of black pepper
Pinch of salt
12 oz. bottle of Dos Equis® Ambar Especial 4-5 ice cubes
Shrimp or tarugo tamarind straw (optional)
Method:
Add Aleppo salt rim to the glass and add ice. Pour lime juice, tomato juice, hot sauce, salt, and pepper into glass. Top with Dos Equis® Ambar. Dos-A-Rita (Frozen)
Ingredients:
Citrus salt
2 oz. Corazon Tequila Blanco (100% agave)
1 ¼ oz. lime juice
1 ¼ oz. agave syrup
Salt
7 oz. Dos Equis® Lager Especial (can use 12 oz. bottle)
Ice
Dashes of chili tincture (optional to taste)
Method:
Add tequila, lime, agave and chili tincture into a blender. Add ice up to level of liquid in blender (or 2.5 oz. of water per Dos-A-Rita® for frozen machine). Blend in blender or frozen machine. Add citrus salt rim to chabela glass (goblet). Pour frozen mixture into glass and top with upside down bottle of Dos Equis® Lager.
Mint Chelada
Ingredients:
8-10 mint leaves
1 ½ oz. lime juice
¾ oz. simple syrup
Pinch of salt
10 oz. Dos Equis® Lager Especial
2 dashes of Peychaud’s Bitters
4-5 large ice cubes
Lime
Method:
Gently muddle leaves with lime juice and simple syrup, then add ice. Add Dos Equis® Lager and top with dashes of bitters.
Toronja Splash
Ingredients:
Citrus salt
2 oz. grapefruit juice
½ oz. lime juice
¾ oz. agave nectar
1 ½ oz. Corazon Tequila Reposado (100% agave)
6 oz. Dos Equis® Lager Especial
3 large ice cubes
Grapefruit slice
Method:
Add citrus salt to rim of the glass and add ice. Pour remaining ingredients excluding beer into glass and stir. Top with Dos Equis® Lager. Garnish with grapefruit slice.
Be sure to like Choice Brands on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to keep up with new product releases. Feel free to message us for information on where to find your favorite brands. Find us at facebook.com/thechoicebrands and instagram.com/choicebrands.
Spend Your Spring At Sonny Panzico’s
Now Is the Perfect Time For Spring Planting
FOR 50 YEARS, SONNY PANZICO’S GARDEN MART HAS been the premier destination for Northeast Louisiana’s gardening needs. From outdoor furniture to kitchens, statuaries to planters, grills to umbrellas, their two locations offer everyone looking to spruce up their outdoor spaces lots to choose from.
With spring upon us, now is the perfect time to plant. Sonny Panzico’s has a great selection of fruit trees including: figs, pears, persimmon, grapes, pomegranate, blueberries, apples, plums, peaches and pecans. If you’re looking for citrus trees, Sonny’s also carries Myers lemon, dwarf lemon, key lime, grapefruit, orange, satsuma and kumquat sweet and sour to name a few.
Beautiful weeping willow trees are among the favorites at Sonny Panzico’s and they have three sizes available: 3-gallons, 7-gallons and 20-gallons. They also have bald cypress, red maples, silver maple, river birch, Arizona ash and Gingko trees just in time for prime planting season. From fruit trees to blooming trees, Sonny’s has it all. Make sure to look for their deliveries of dogwoods, redbuds, crabapples, Bradford pears, Teddy Bear dwarf magnolias, yellow tulip poplars, all color and sizes of crepe myrtles, and vitex trees.
If you’re ready to give your green thumb a go with roses, Sonny Panzico’s has Knock Out roses in a variety of colors, as well as a vast selection of Drift roses. They also have Peggy Martin’s climbing roses in 3-gallon sizes. Another great option for roses are their hybrid tea roses and tree roses, also available in several color choices.
Ready to start your vegetable garden? Sonny Panzico’s friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure you have everything you need fro plant a successful garden. They have over 15 varieties of tomato plants, squash, cucumber, cabbage, collards, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and strawberries.
If grilling take precedents over gardening, Sonny Panzico’s has a range of popular grills and cooking accessories to light your fire. Among the favorites is the Louisiana Grills which enhance the sophistication of grilling with top-of-the-line products that were derived from the passion and precision of the world’s foremost modern outdoor chefs. Unlike most of its competitors, the Louisiana Grills possess the capability of both direct and indirect cooking using an innovative technology that turns the unit from a smoker to grill with a simple pull of a lever. Sonny’s also carries a range of Kamado Joe grills. These performance driven ceramic grills are for those that crave the ultimate charcoal outdoor cooking experience. Get better heat retention, fuel efficiency
and smoking ability with the Kamado Joe range of grills.
Nothing says Louisiana better than a table full of crawfish and Sonny Panzico’s offers the Bayou Classic Crawfish cooker. Perfect for large batch outdoor cooking events and backyard parties, these cookers are great for boiling crawfish and other seafood. Available in different sizes, these cookers heat a large volume of water to a rolling boil in 30 minutes and provides an easy lift basket which allows seafood to slide down into a cooler.
Sonny Panzico’s Garden Mart recently re-stocked Lodge Cast Iron cookware. From seasoned cast iron pans to bakeware accessories, Sonny’s selection of Lodge is unrivaled in this area. If you’ve been looking for the best cast iron, this American-made cookware is a terrific tool for beginners, home cooks and chefs.
From grills to furniture, Sonny’s selection of Signature Design by Ashley furniture sets are the perfect setting for Spring days spent outdoors. Whether your looking for simple loungers or a full outdoor sectional, they have durable and chic options in-stock. A favorite is the Sundown Treasure Adirondack chair in turquoise or red. Easily add cottage-quaint charm to your outdoor oasis with this gorgeous chair that is designed to shed rainwater and weather the seasons beautifully. Not only do they carry furniture, they also carry a line of Milwaukee Garden Tools. These tools deliver unrivaled performance in a compact structure. From string trimmers to blowers, these power tools will help you tackle any landscaping or backyard project.
Sonny Panzico’s Garden Mart also recently received a new shipment of ceramic pots. These pots are available in a variety of colors and sizes. From smaller sizes to those large enough to plant trees in, the options are endless.
Whether you’re looking for statuaries or fire pits, grills or patio furniture, Sonny Panzico’s two locations has it all. Their friendly and professional staff has a range of knowledge and is available to share with you tips to keep your garden beautiful and thriving. Find them at 7540 Hwy 165 North in Monroe or at 1630 Arkansas Road in West Monroe, visit their Facebook page or website at panzicos.com. Also, make sure to tune in to Sonny and Mark’s radio show every Wednesday at 5 p.m. on FM 105.7 and AM 540. Call 318-324-1500 to ask about lawn issues or with gardening questions.
And Away We Grow
At Revival Design with Avant Garden
BY CLINTON DOWNING
WE HAVE JUST SPRUNG FORWARD, AND Springtime is here. Lush vegetation is returning in splendorous shades of green, from the shrubs to the blades of grass that blanket our lawns, the ethereal blossoms are showing out in the most spectacular colors. The birds are chirping with excitement as we are in a season of rejuvenation.
It is a season that truly starts off a new year more so than the Gregorian calendar that was introduced in 1582 by Pope Gregory XIII. The March winds and April showers provide us with May flowers as the saying goes.
The greenest pasture is not somewhere else. It’s the place where you plant yourself that you will grow into who you were born to be. Over the past five years, I have cultivated Revival Design to what I had always hoped and dreamed for in my life and career.
It is over the course of those five years that I have weathered some storms but nothing more difficult than I have in my past. It is from those challenges of loss and grief that I rediscovered why I returned to Monroe and started a life for myself in its historic downtown. Just as in the seasons of loss we find those seasons of growth and understanding for how and why God allows things to happen.
That has been very apparent for me in the last four months since my brother-in-law, Ricky Watley, came to work for me. After nine years battling an extremely rare sarcoma in his right hand, he made the decision on his own terms to have it amputated so that he could move on with his life. Having him here has helped me grow professionally and personally. He has become my best friend. Despite losing his hand and career, his laughter has kept me motivated to grow within myself as well as Revival. He is a true inspiration who came back to work four weeks after his surgery. Having him here daily is a reminder of how remarkable life can be even in adversity. Ricky has deeply rooted me in taking the next steps as we grow at 300 Walnut Street.
We are busy getting our outdoor space ready for a wonderous display of happiness. Having grown up in the floral business, I am so excited to open Avant Garden this April 2025.
“AVANT: Stylistically or Culturally Advanced. GARDEN: ornamental grounds laid out for enjoyment.”
In the beginning, we will be offering a variety of topiaries, blooming plants, ferns of many varieties, dramatic hanging baskets and rare specialty plants. We will also have statuary, unique pots, fountains, and vintage patio furniture and more wonderful treasures.
We will grow this space as we have grown Revival over the past five and a half years. We look forward to hosting garden clubs and book clubs as we have over the past few years. We will continue with our farmers’ and bakers’ markets featuring favorites Blackcat Kitchen, M&K House, Jubilant Soapsations, Wallgreens/Zues Juice, The Wild Fern and more.
With the Hotel Monroe of opening in May we want to venture out more. We are working with some amazing purveyors, culinary artists, and mixologists for mocktail, wine and whiskey tastings and culinary pairings in the courtyard gardens.
“Art in the Garden” will be a new series of cultivated art shows featuring artists beyond our region. I am working on an event called “Lend a Hand” to benefit my brother-in-law as he still has challenges ahead navigating this new chapter in his life with my sister Sarah and their family.
I have wanted to create a space that is not just a place to get plants but a sanctuary of solace for our customers and community. Some of the statuary and iron fountains and urns are from my late parents’ home. They are a gentle reminder of their presence in my life after their passing.
We are also growing inside Revival as we have expanded our mezzanine level with “The Upper Room.” It is a creatively curated space filled with all the vintage vibes. We are nurturing every element as we are giving our showroom a rebirth. Our team is working to bring one of the best shopping experiences, as our goal has always been to create space for the masses and not the classes.
As we have expanded journeys and pickers trips, we are acquiring some amazing treasures and unique things from Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, Georgia, Alabama, Florida and Oklahoma.
As we move forward in 2025, do not underestimate the impact environments have on our growth, plant yourself in rich soil with the right people who want to see you blossom.
XOXO Clinton Downing
Summer-Ready Skin & Body
Medical Spa by St. Francis Medical Group
IMMUNITY AND WELLNESS
Whether you struggle with low energy, a sluggish metabolism, weakened immune system, or poor hydration, vitamin infusions and injections offer a quick and effective way to replenish your body from the inside out. The Medical Spa offers a range of vitamin injections, and IV therapy options designed to support energy levels, immune function, skin health, weight loss, and overall wellness.
Lipotropic Injections (fat-burning support): blend of essential amino acids and vitamins that support fat metabolism and energy production. These injections help break down fat in the liver, promote detoxification, and enhance weight loss efforts when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
Vitamin B12: essential for energy production, red blood cell formation, and brain health. Many people experience low b12 levels due to diet, age, poor absorption, leading to fatigue, brain fog, and sluggish metabolism. A B12 injection provided a rapid boost in energy and mental clarity.
Vitamin D: plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Vitamin D injections help strengthen bones, muscles, immune function, improve mood and mental well-being.
Glutathione: the body’s master antioxidant, helping to detoxify the liver, reduce oxidative stress, and promote healthy glowing skin.
IV infusions defer by providing a blend of vitamins and minerals and hydration directly into your bloodstream, ensuring fast and effective absorption. Our customized IV drips are designed to target fatigue, dehydration, immune support, skin health, and recovery.
Immunity
Boost your Immune System + Feel Better Faster Inner Beauty (Glow)
Fight Acne, Wrinkles and Tired Skin from the Inside Out
Hydrate and Refresh (Enhance, Boost, Hydrate)
Decrease Recovery Time and Enhance Your Performance
Myers’ Cocktail (The “Gold Standard”)
Immunity Boosting, Improves Cold and Flu Symptoms, Reductions of Fatigue, Hangover Remedy, Headache Relief, Improves PMS Symptoms and Bloating, Improves Brain Fog Glo2Facial
As the seasons change, so do your skin’s needs. After months of cold weather and dry indoor heat, your complexion may be looking dull and dehydrated. Spring is the perfect time to refresh and rejuvenate
your skin, and Glo2Facial is the ultimate treatment to help you achieve a healthy glow.
The advanced facial combines gentle exfoliation, oxygenation, and deep nourishment to reveal smoother, brighter skin. Using natural ingredients and cutting-edge technology, Glo2Facial enhances circulation, promotes collagen production, and leaves your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. Whether you’re looking to hydrate, brighten, or firm your skin, this treatment can be customized to your unique concerns.
Say goodbye to winter dryness and hello to a fresh, glowing complexion with Glo2Facial – your skin’s perfect springtime reset. Radiofrequency Treatments
Radiofrequency (RF) treatments are a great option for skin tightening and collagen stimulation year-round, including spring and summer. RF skin tightening treatments work by using energy waves to heat the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production. This process helps to tighten the skin, improving overall texture and tone. These treatments are non-invasive and require no downtime, meaning safe during warmer months and won’t interfere with outdoor activities. RF treatments also pair well with other treatments, such as facials or microneedling.
• Purchase 4 small areas = $400
• Purchase 6 medium areas = $600
• Purchase 8 large areas = $800 Referral Program
We love building long-term relationships, so we’ve created a referral program to make it easy for you to share your knowledge about The Medical Spa and get rewarded at the same time. For every friend or colleague that you refer, you’ll earn $10 once your friend makes a qualifying purchase! Treat yourself and save money this year with either of these programs. To find out more information, call The Medical Spa at 318-966-3772.
Be sure to visit The Medical Spa this month to take advantage of our specials, events, and to learn more about the medical-grade skincare products we offer. We are located in the James R. Wolff Building (also known as the P&S Building) in downtown Monroe. Our address is 312 Grammont Street, Suite 406, across from St. Francis Medical Center. Also, make sure to follow The Medical Spa by St. Francis Medical Group on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on our weekly specials, sales, promotions, and giveaways.
Kegs and Corks
A Celebration of Craft Beer, Wine, and Music at Flying Heart Brewing & Pub in Bossier City
AS THE SPRING BRINGS WARMER WEATHER, A LIVELY atmosphere fills the air—one that can only mean one thing: it’s time for the highly anticipated Kegs and Corks Festival! This annual celebration, held to mark the anniversary of Flying Heart Brewing & Pub, promises an unforgettable experience for craft beer aficionados, wine lovers, and music enthusiasts alike. Join us as we dive into the heart of this festival, where every sip, every note, and every moment is a testament to the passion that drives the Flying Heart family.
Crafting a Unique Experience
At Flying Heart Brewing & Pub, we believe that you are the reason we craft and what better way to celebrate than sharing crafts with you. From the moment you enter the festival, you’ll be embraced by a sense of community and camaraderie. Local craft brewers and wine makers come together to showcase their finest offerings, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to taste a diverse range of flavors and then vote for their favorite craft beer. Whether you’re a hophead or a wine connoisseur, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
As a craft brewery, we take pride in our roots and the journey that brought us here. Our desire to push our craft to the limit. We started out as a small home brew group spending hot summer days slaving away in an under-ventilated basement to create batches of beer large enough to quench the palates of ourselves, family and friends. This drove us to create a distinctive craft brand and fulfill our dream of opening a brewery in the Ark-La-Tex. We still have just as much fun brewing today as we did on day one. And by pouring back into our home brewer friends, hopefully we play a small part in their craft journey!
A Toast to Local Talent
Kegs and Corks is not just about the beverages; it’s also a celebration of the incredible talent found in our local community. Throughout the festival, local bands, Message from Mercury and The Barksdale Bubble will bring a great vibe for our festival-goers. These diverse musical offerings create an inviting atmosphere that encourages festival-goers to dance, socialize, and enjoy the moment.
The synergy between craft beer, fine wine, and live music is a recipe for celebration, and Kegs and Corks encapsulates this perfectly.
It’s an opportunity to connect with friends, old and new, while savoring the fruits of our labor.
A Culinary Journey
What’s a festival without some delicious food? Attendees can purchase gourmet food from our culinary vendors, all carefully curated to complement the rich flavors of our craft beverages. It’s a celebration of local flavors, and we’re committed to supporting our fellow businesses while providing an unforgettable dining experience for our guests.
Community and Connection
At the heart of Kegs and Corks lies a commitment to community. It is not just a craft beer, wine, and music festival, it is also a fundraiser! Each year, the Flying Heart Brewing team partners with a local nonprofit organization to contribute a portion of the proceeds to their mission. This year, our nonprofit partner is the Tiffany Strong Scholarship Foundation, a 501c3 organization that raises scholarship money for Bossier Parish graduating seniors attending a Louisiana College, University, or Technical School.
Join Us for the Celebration
As we prepare to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Flying Heart Brewing, we invite you to join us for Kegs and Corks. It’s more than just a festival; it’s a tribute to the hard work, dedication, and passion that drives us every day. Together, we’ll raise our glasses to the past, present, and future of craft brewing, fine wine, and the vibrant culture that makes our community unique.
And if Kegs and Corks left you wanting more, join us for a second day of celebrating our 10th Anniversary on Sunday, May 4, 2025, for a Sunday Funday in East Bank Plaza! The party continues with live music, food vendors, a cornhole tournament, and kid’s activities. The Sunday Funday event is free to attend.
Mark your calendars for May 3 - 4, 2025, gather your friends, and get ready for a weekend filled with laughter, music, and fun in the heart of Bossier City’s East Bank District. Get your tickets to Kegs and Corks at www.eventbrite.com. We can’t wait to see you there! Cheers to another fantastic year at Flying Heart Brewing!
FISHING WITH KENNY
THE HOOK THE CONNECTION
article by kenny covington
Now that Mother Nature has decided it was time to allow spring to make its way onto the scene, there is no better time to spend a day on the water. One of the things I have always talked about in BayouLife “Fishing with Kenny” articles over the years has been how important it is to be mindful when it comes to your equipment. When it comes to hooks, this is especially important.
By nature, I am a tweaker. I always look for a better hook to best fit the technique I am using. To some, this might seem like overkill, and I understand that, but my goal has always been to catch every fish that bites during a day on the water, no matter if it is during a tournament or just for fun. Our fisheries can be difficult at best, so when I am fortunate to get a bite, I don’t want to miss the opportunity to catch it.
When I start my tackle preparation for a tournament, my first thought is all about the hooks I will be using. Naturally, this depends on the techniques I will be using, but for this article I will simplify what I am talking about. Over the years, I have used hooks produced by every major hook company; Gamakatsu, Owner, VMC, you name them I have tried them all. My ideas are my own, so my views are based strictly on my on the water successes.
First, let’s look at hooks used for soft
plastics. My personal preference is the Ike Approved hooks made by VMC. These are the finest hooks ever produced. They are consistently sharp, keep their points, and when you include the three-degree point offset, you have a hook that produces better than the competition. If you hook the fish, it is coming to the boat.
I use their EWG models from 3/0 to 5/0 and their offset worm hooks from 2/0 to 5/0. I use the EWG models on creature baits such as a Zoom Speed Craw, a Reaction Innovations Sweet Beaver, or when flipping a Tube. I use the Worm hooks for Carolina rigs, a Brush Hog or an 8-inch Lizard, or when flipping or pitching any straight-line soft plastic such as a 10-inch worm. One of the things I am careful to do is match my hook size with the size line I will be using. As a rule, the larger the hook, the heavier the line.
To prove my point, years ago I quit flipping a tube because I lost more fish than I caught. The only hook option I had at the time was an EWG hook made by Gamakatsu, but the problem was the hook point, while extremely sharp, was in line with the line tie, giving little clearance for the hook point to do its job. I was also trying to flip my tubes on a 20 lb. monofilament line and that wasn’t helping either. Once I discovered the 4/0 VMC EWG style hook, and paired the hook with 40 lb. braided line, my hook to catch ration on a tube
was well over 98% over a four-year period. The right hook paired with the correct line, and my problems were solved.
Next up, I want to address the changing of treble hooks. As I have stated before, unless the lure is already stocked with a hook I have confidence in, I change all the hooks on every crankbait or topwater lure I buy. I have had extremely good luck with EWG short shank hooks, regardless of the company who makes them, but for the best deal, I highly recommend the Eagle Claw hooks designed by Fletcher Shryock.
If a crankbait comes equipped with a #4 treble, I can change to a #2 treble on the back end and increase my hookups without giving up lure action. This is a win/win scenario and something that is more important than many believe. On crankbaits I only change out the rear treble for a bigger size, I stay with the same size on the front hook.
When considering hooks for topwaters, you always want to consider what changing the hooks will do to the action of the bait. A good example of this is when you are throwing a Yellow Magic topwater popper. The hooks on the popper are both #6’s and I have found if I use the same but sharper thin wire #6, I can change the hooks without hurting the action of the bait. I have found that putting a larger #4 on the Yellow Magic causes the bait to sit lower in the water, causing me to get less strikes.
For my topwater lures, I am not a fan of the EWG style of hooks except on my walking topwaters such as a Spook, Gun Fish, or a Chug Bug. I have found a longer shanked EWG style treble increases the catch ratio, better than using a round bend treble. I believe the reason for this is because I use 30 lb. braid on all my walking topwaters, and the braided line, plus the longer shank EWG hooks, gives me better hook up ratios on longer casts usually associated with these types of topwaters.
One last thing, I do use trailer hooks on my spinnerbaits and buzzbaits. I know a lot of anglers who do not feel the need to use trailer hooks, but it has been my experience that over a course of a year, I will catch a handful of fish on the trailer hook that I might not have otherwise caught. My #1 rule with a trailer hook, no matter what brand you choose, is use as small of a hook as you can get away with, usually a 1/0 version. You catch more fish with the smaller trailer hook than you will with the bigger sizes.
Wow, we sure did cover a lot in such a short period of time. I hope we were able to share with you some insights that will help you have more success on the water. Springtime is here and somewhere; a bass is biting! Take care and make sure you catch one for me! See you next month! See you next month!
Cucumbers are a favorite vegetable crop that can be planted anytime this month!
‘Marketmore’ is pictured.
IN THE GARDEN
VEGETABLES
April is the month to plant our favorites in the vegetable garden. Transplants of tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants can all be set out early this month. And, if you wait until next month for peppers and eggplants, don’t worry. They love heat and we have a long season ahead of us. When setting out tomato plants, make the planting hole wide so the root system will have plenty of room to expand. Set plants deep, too, so root initials will form along the buried stem. What are root initials? Have you ever noticed tiny white bumps that form along the stem of a tall tomato vine? Those are root initials and will form adventitious roots. A big, healthy root system will mean a big, healthy tomato plant! A handful of finished compost in each planting hole will give transplants a boost of nutrients, too. If you’re going to stake tomato plants, place the stakes prior to planting to avoid potentially damaging root systems. Give transplants a good drink, too. Melons can go out later this month and if it seems late, don’t worry. Just as with peppers, melons love heat and we have a long, scorching summer on deck so take your time.
Sweet corn can go in this month, too. If you’ve never had sweet corn right out of the garden, you’ve missed out! Sweet corn needs space, full sun, and is a heavy feeder so get ready to fertilize generously. A pre-plant fertilizer application of about 1.5 pounds of either 8-24-24 or 13-13-13 per ten-foot row is recommended, followed by side-dressing every two weeks with 0.5 pounds of calcium nitrate per ten-foot row. Sow two or three seeds in groups about eight inches apart, thinning each hill to the strongest stalk. Plant in multiple, shorter rows rather than in one long row. Corn is a wind-pollinated grass, and the blockstyle planting ensures adequate pollination. The tassels are the male flowers and provide pollen. The ears are female flowers, and their characteristic silks are the stigmas and styles (where the pollen from the tassels should land). There is one silk for every kernel on the cob. Sweet corn is ready to pick when the ends of the silks turn brown. Yellow varieties for our region include ‘Seneca Horizon,’ ‘Gold Queen,’ and ‘Haney Select.’ White varieties recommended are ‘8101 Summer Sweet’ and ‘Silver Queen.’ A number of heirloom varieties are available from reputable seed companies and online sources.
SPRING-FLOWERING BULBS
As we go through the remainder of spring, flowering bulbs will be finishing leaving only green foliage. Should you cut that foliage down or leave it? The correct answer is leave it! Foliage of bulbs is capturing sunlight and using that energy to generate carbohydrates that will be
< ‘Suncredible Saturn’ and other sunflowers brighten up any landscape and attract pollinators.
> Porterweeds will provide brilliant color and attract pollinators all summer!
Photo by Kerry Heafner
Photo by LSU AgCenter.
Photo by Proven Winners.
stored in the bulbs until next year. This means they’re storing energy for an even better bloom next year. Cut the foliage when it turns yellow and dies down. Otherwise, leave it for now. You won’t be sorry next year!
LAWNS
Lawns resume growth this month after winter dormancy. Remember, our Deep South turfgrasses (bermudagrass, centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass, and zoysiagrass) are not adapted to deeply shaded areas. Full sun is key for lush, healthy turf. Mower blades should be adjusted to the height appropriate for your turfgrass. Bermudagrass, centipedegrass, and zoysiagrass should all be mowed at 1 to 2 inches. St. Augustinegrass should be mowed to 2.5 to 3 inches. Frequent-enough rains render religious irrigation of established residential lawns unnecessary. The LSU AgCenter recommends less frequent and deeper waterings for lawns. If most of the water runs off, consider aerating your lawn so water percolates down into the soil where the turf’s root system is. Turfgrasses are no different than vegetable plants or flowers in that they need healthy, loose soil for healthy root systems.
There’s always the question of how much fertilizer to use on your lawn. When our soil lab returns soil test results and makes a nitrogen recommendation, the rate should be split into up to three applications throughout the growing season. The LSU AgCenter recommends no more than a pound of available nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn per single application. How much fertilizer is that? First, either measure out or estimate the square footage of your lawn. Suppose your lawn is 5,000 square feet, and you selected ammonium sulfate (21-0-0) as your nitrogen source. And let’s assume you’re following the recommended rate of 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. First, we know that ammonium sulfate is 21% available nitrogen per 100 pounds of fertilizer. Let’s keep the arithmetic simple and round 21% down to 20%, or 0.2, or one-fifth. This means for every 5 pounds of fertilizer, there is 1 lb. of nitrogen (5 lbs. of fertilizer = 1 lb. nitrogen). Your goal is to apply 1 lb. of nitrogen for every 1,000 square feet. And, since 1 lb. of nitrogen is equal to 5 lbs. of fertilizer, then 5 lbs. of fertilizer is equal to 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. But you’re fertilizing 5,000 square feet, so five times as much fertilizer is needed. Five pounds of fertilizer times five units of area = 25 lbs. of ammonium sulfate fertilizer required to apply 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet to a 5,000 square foot lawn.
Triple 13 (13-13-13) is a commonly used fertilizer available at local garden centers. Use the same example lawn as above, 5,000 square feet. The quickest way to determine how much Triple 13 is needed to apply 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn is to divide the amount of nitrogen desired by the amount of nitrogen in the bag as a decimal, or 1 ÷ 0.13, which is 7.7 lbs. of Triple 13 needed to apply 1 lb. of nitrogen to 1,000 square feet of lawn. For a 5,000 square foot lawn, multiply 7.7 times 5. So, a 5,000 square foot lawn will need 38.5 lbs. of Triple 13 for 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.
No matter the nitrogen source, break applications up into early, mid, and late summer.
St. Augustinegrass and bermudagrass both respond well to fertilizer applications. St. Augustinegrass may be fertilized up to three times during the growing season –April, June and an optional application in mid-August. Bermudagrass is an even bigger fertilizer user and can be fertilized from three to five times during the growing season, especially if you like
Keep lawns healthy with scheduled fertilizer applications and less frequent but deeper watering.
to mow grass. Fertilize zoysiagrass twice per growing season – in April and again in July. Carpetgrass and centipedegrass are not big fertilizer users. Up to two applications (April and July-optional) will take care of centipedegrass, and a single application will be sufficient for carpetgrass (April). Constantly bombing your lawn with nitrogen during our hot growing season could stress your lawn and create problems down the road.
POLLINATORS
Keep pollinators in mind during spring planting. Look not further than the most recent list of Louisiana Super Plant selections! Some great selections were named for 2025. You can’t go wrong with Indica Azaleas like ‘George L. Taber,’ ‘Formosa,’, and ‘Mrs. G.G. Gerbing.’ Gaura, especially ‘Whirling Butterflies,’ is a heat and drought-tolerant option for color all summer long. And the red, tubular flowers of ‘Vermillionaire’ Cuphea will attract hummingbirds all summer. Don’t forget the ‘Suncredible’ sunflower line. ‘Suncredible Saturn’ is just as vigorous and prolific as its cousin, ‘Suncredible Yellow.’ But, ‘Saturn’ has a reddish-orange ring on the ray flowers that will add something different to your sunflower patch! Pollinators can’t resist sunflowers, and ‘Suncredible Saturn’ will be an otherworldly addition to your garden and landscape. Porterweeds were named as Louisiana Super Plants last year and for good reason! They provide color all season long and the small, brightly colored flowers produce copious amounts of nectar for a bevy of pollinators. Porterweeds are adaptable to many soil types, and they don’t mind heat and humidity. Porterweeds will be annuals in the ArkLaMiss, but well worth the effort. Mix red and blue Porterweeds for an eye-popping combination. ‘Intenz Classic’ Celosia is another one of my favorites for attracting pollinators. ‘Intenz Classic’ is a different variety of the old-timey Cock’s Combs your Great Grandmother probably grew and is no match for the heat and humidity of the ArkLaMiss. ‘Intenz Classic’ produces spikes of deep magenta flowers that attract clouds of pollinating insects until frost. Check the complete list of Louisiana Super Plants for a lot more warm-season color options!
Tune in to Louisiana Livin every Tuesday at 4:30 for In the Garden with Kerry Heafner of the LSU AgCenter.
‘Intenz Classic’ Celosia’s magenta flowers attract clouds of pollinating insects! Photo by LSU AgCenter.
Photo by LSU AgCenter.
DOROTHY WILLIAMS
Dorothy Williams isn’t a big fan of sticking to a set pattern when she sews. She prefers to be original and to do things her way so her personality shines through in the end. Williams lives her life this way, too. The fiber artist is one-of-a-kind, choosing to do things that make her happy rather than sticking to the status quo. That’s why, at 92 years old, she’s still creating. She says it brings her joy, and as long as she can make that joy for herself, she will. After all, she adds, “Life is too short to be unhappy.”
article by Starla Gatson and photography by Kelly Moore Clark
Above left: A skirt and jacket set with bright dinosaur appliques and a stuffed dinosaur on the shoulder. Above right: Williams received an invitation to participate in the Bernina Fashion Show in 2002. She made this Dupioni silk garment with over 150 handmade silk flowers.
Not everybody is going to get recognition,” Williams says. “But if, deep within, they’re satisfied and happy with what they’ve done, I think they are accomplishing their goal.”
Though Williams first became acquainted with sewing at age four and a half — “My mother was very busy, so she let me sew on her electric sewing machine before I started at school,” she recalls — she doesn’t remember getting serious about making garments until she was a pre-teen. “I have a sister who’s 20 months older than I am, and we shared clothes,” she says. “Boys started teasing me because I had on her clothes. So, my mother said she’d find money to buy fabric if I would make my own.”
By the time Williams — she was still a Seegers then — was in high school, her family had moved from the southern half of the state to Columbia. She graduated from the Caldwell Parish town’s high school and made her way to Louisiana Tech University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Clothing and a Bachelor of Science in Education.
Post-college, Williams, now married, was teaching home economics in Junction City. Then, she learned she was pregnant with her first child. She left the classroom to be home with her son. Besides, she says, her husband had been drafted, and the family had to move to San Antonio.
The Williamses didn’t stay in Texas forever, though. When the family patriarch’s military service ended, they moved to El Dorado, Arkansas. He accepted a job with Arkansas Power and Light, now Entergy, and Williams resumed life as a stay-at-home mom. Now, however, she’d be raising two, as she and her husband welcomed their second son. Having her children gave Williams more motivation to sew, and when she wasn’t making matching outfits for her boys, she was making Barbie doll clothes for her friends’ daughters.
When her boys were old enough to go to school, Williams decided she would go back, too. She enrolled at the University of Louisiana Monroe, took elementary education courses, and got back into the classroom. This marked the beginning of her tenure as a fifth- and sixth-grade teacher, a position she held for 26 years until she had to retire in 1986.
“I had pericarditis and supraventricular tachycardia, and they wouldn’t let me go back in the classroom,” Williams shares. “They said I couldn’t get tired, be around germs, or be under stress. I said, ‘How am I going to teach school?’ And they said, ‘You aren’t.” And that was that.”
Not long after Williams retired, her husband did, too — “He couldn’t stand that I was home and he wasn’t,” she jokes — and the two decided to move their lives to Milton, Florida. That was where her brother-in-law lived, and she reasoned that the two brothers ought to be able to spend more time together. The pair called Florida home for 14 years.
All the while, Williams continued creating, having picked up knitting and quilting at this point. In Florida, she found community centered around fiber art, going to small groups in Pensacola and Milton. Eventually, her connections in those groups led to opportunities for her to teach quilting. She became a Sunshine State circuit teacher, leading classes all along the Florida panhandle. Her
“When I was asked to be a Bernina designer, I thought that was probably the highest honor I could get as a fiber artist,” she muses. “But to be honest, after being interviewed on LPB, having my [retrospective at the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council], and being in BayouLife, I think my life isn’t over.”
teaching credits also include classes at three national quilting conventions, at the American Sewing Guild in Dallas and D.C., and the Houston Quilt Show.
As she taught, Williams continued creating wearable art of her own, including a garment inspired by Pablo Picasso.
“We went to Atlanta to a Picasso exhibit,” Williams recalls, “and I didn’t have any better sense to say if Picasso could paint it, I could put it on fabric, which I did. I have a garment that is his painting ‘Girl Before a Mirror,’ and it is my favorite thing.” Williams modeled the Picasso garment in a style show in Pacific Grove, California. Her teaching peers there were so impressed with her work that they encouraged her to pursue being in the Bernina Fashion Show. Designing something for the show is a prestigious honor, one of the highest a wearable art creator can receive, and participation is by invitation only. In 2002, Williams received her invitation. “That’s when I made my Dupioni silk garment with over 150 handmade silk flowers on it,” she recalls.
That garment, called Voice of the Flowers, was professionally modeled and traveled internationally for a year. It and the ‘Girl Before a Mirror’ piece are just two of Williams’ noteworthy creations. A few others include a baseball-themed suit she made for a Paducah Quilt Show wearable art competition and a skirt and jacket set with bright dinosaur appliques and a stuffed dinosaur on the shoulder.
Williams says she’s made around 50 garments, and while some of them she wears, others are for sale — “At 92, I’m trying not to leave all this for somebody to have to deal with,” she quips as she recalls her large collection of handmade items. She doesn’t make them much anymore. Nowadays, her focus is primarily on quilting, which she does independently and with friends — she meets up with two of them to quilt every Saturday. She gives away most of what she makes. Making such large pieces in her small apartment takes a lot of patience and innovation, she says, but the work is worth it.
“I enjoy making them,” she declares before adding, “As long as God will let me, I’m going to quilt.”
She says her quilts are like her children, and each one has a name and a story.
“I write up the story of every quilt, and a friend types it on her computer,” she says. “You can print on the fabric. So, when I write them, she’ll print them, and I sew them so people will forever know the quilt’s story. That’s just another thing I do. I just can’t stand not adding my part, something of me and everything I do.”
When Williams isn’t quilting, she remains as active as possible, noting proudly, “I’m the oldest one [at my assisted living community] that doesn’t use a cane, walker, or wheelchair. I take pride in being healthy, and I tell people I am blessed.”
Her days consist of spending time with her older brother and sister, who also call Monroe home, working jigsaw puzzles, attending a book club, and serving with the P.E.O. women’s philanthropy organization and her church’s hospitality committee. These things, plus creating fiber art, make her happy and give her satisfaction. And that’s the advice she offers aspiring fiber artists: do the things that satisfy their souls.
“Not everybody is going to get recognition,” Williams says. “But if, deep within, they’re satisfied and happy with what they’ve done, I think they are accomplishing their goal.”
Williams’s story is also a reminder to trust the process, knowing that, just because they don’t come soon doesn’t mean recognition and accolades won’t come at all. Her recognition for her sewing talents didn’t arrive until she had retired from a decades-long teaching career, and now, even at 92, she believes there’s still more to come.
“When I was asked to be a Bernina designer, I thought that was probably the highest honor I could get as a fiber artist,” she muses. “But to be honest, after being interviewed on LPB, having my [retrospective at the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council], and being in BayouLife, I think my life isn’t over.”
Spring Into Homeownership
With NELA Title Company
SPRING IS IN THE AIR,AND WITH IT COMES A SEASON OF new beginnings. Warmer weather, blooming flowers, and longer days make this the perfect time to embark on one of life’s most exciting journeys—buying a new home. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, upgrading to your dream home, or selling your current property, NELA Title Company is here to guide you through the process with expertise and care.
Your Trusted Partner in Residential Real Estate
At NELA Title Company, we specialize in ensuring smooth and stress-free real estate transactions. Whether you’re buying, selling, or refinancing, we work closely with sellers, buyers, real estate agents, and lenders to handle every detail with precision. With extensive knowledge of real estate transactions, title searches, escrow accounting, and the settlement process, our team is equipped to address any concerns that may arise along the way.
A clear title is one of the most critical aspects of a successful real estate transaction. Our in-depth title searches uncover any potential issues—such as liens or ownership disputes—before they become a problem, giving you confidence in your investment. From the initial search to the final closing, we are committed to protecting your interests and ensuring a seamless experience.
Protecting Your Future with Estate Planning
In addition to real estate services, NELA Title Company specializes in estate planning, helping you secure your assets and provide for your loved ones. A well-structured estate plan is essential in protecting your family’s financial future, ensuring that your property and assets are distributed according to your wishes. Whether you need a will, trust, or other estate planning services, our experienced team will help you navigate the process with clarity and ease.
Why Spring is the Perfect Time to Buy
Spring is one of the most active seasons in real estate, and for good reason. The market comes alive as buyers and sellers take advantage of ideal weather conditions, longer daylight hours, and more available inventory. Families looking to relocate often prefer to move during the summer, making spring an excellent time to find the perfect home and get settled before the new school year begins.
If you’re considering buying or selling this season, NELA Title Company is ready to assist you every step of the way. From handling title work to ensuring a smooth closing, our team is dedicated to providing peace of mind and expert guidance.
Your Local Title and Estate Planning Experts
With a reputation built on trust, knowledge, and dedication, NELA Title Company is proud to serve Northeast Louisiana as “Your Local Title and Estate Planning Experts.” Whether you’re closing on a new home or planning for the future, we are committed to providing top-tier service that protects both your assets and your loved ones.
Spring into action today—let NELA Title Company help you turn the key to your next chapter!
Lilburn’s Boutique
Where Tradition Meets Timeless Style
AS SPRING ARRIVES, BRINGING fresh beginnings and sunny days, Lilburn’s Boutique in Ruston, Louisiana, invites you to explore a collection that celebrates the season of renewal. Owned by sisters, Jenni and Alyssa, Lilburn’s is more than just a store— it’s a heartfelt tribute to their parents, Lilburn Lee Robinson and his wife, whose legacy of kindness and service lives on in every carefully curated piece. The boutique’s logo, inspired by their mother’s handwriting found in their father’s Bible, embodies the warmth of family and tradition that makes this shop a true treasure in the community.
This spring, refresh your wardrobe or find the perfect gift for someone special with Lilburn’s handpicked selection of stylish and meaningful pieces. Whether you’re searching for something classic, trendy, or uniquely personal, Jenni and Alyssa have created a space where every item tells a story.
This season, Lilburn’s Boutique is putting
a spotlight on men’s fashion with an expanded collection of sport coats, ties, and accessories that blend timeless elegance with modern style. Whether dressing for a wedding, a business event, or an evening out, these versatile pieces make an impression. Lightweight sport coats in fresh spring hues, patterned ties, and sleek accessories offer endless possibilities for men looking to elevate their style. Shopping for your husband, father, or friend? A well-chosen piece from Lilburn’s ensures he’ll have something he can wear with confidence for years to come.
For women, Lilburn’s Boutique offers a mix of comfortable, stylish, and effortlessly chic pieces perfect for springtime outings. From breezy dresses ideal for brunch dates to casual loungewear made for relaxed weekends, every piece is chosen for its quality and charm. Whether you’re updating your closet or looking for a thoughtful gift, Lilburn’s selection embraces the beauty of the season with soft pastels, floral prints, and timeless classics.
For sports enthusiasts and Louisiana Tech University fans, Lilburn’s Boutique carries exclusive Junkyard Dawg T-shirts designed by one of the sisters. These high-quality, limitededition shirts celebrate the beloved Louisiana Tech mascot and are perfect for game days, alumni gatherings, and everyday wear. Complementing the collection are Tech-inspired earrings and purse straps, making it easy to showcase school spirit with style.
Looking for something luxurious yet practical? Lilburn’s offers an indulgent selection of artisanal soaps made from goat milk and olive oil, paired with natural sea sponges. These handcrafted products are a perfect way to pamper yourself or gift a little everyday luxury to someone special. Their gentle, nourishing ingredients make them an ideal addition to any self-care routine.
Shopping at Lilburn’s Boutique is about more than just fashion—it’s about embracing tradition, celebrating community, and finding pieces that truly resonate. Jenni and Alyssa have poured their hearts into curating a boutique that reflects their parents’ legacy while bringing fresh, stylish finds to Ruston. This spring, skip the ordinary and discover something extraordinary at Lilburn’s Boutique. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a loved one, every visit promises a warm welcome and a selection that’s as unique as you are.
Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC
Hodophiles and Homebodies are Traveling
SPRING IS HERE, AND TRAVEL PLANS are in season. As we celebrate World Health Day (April 7th) and Earth Day (April 22nd), we must orchestrate our itineraries to yield a positive outcome and refresh others. Exercising proper etiquette ensures the success of a noteworthy adventure.
Using the Seven Ps (proper pre-planning prevents poor post-production) establishes a solid foundation for outlining your journey. A savvy excursionist researches the prerequisites of international travel online or with the assistance of a travel agent. You should apply for a United States passport at least three months before departure. Certain countries require a visa for entry, so it is important to verify that your documentation is complete. Individuals should sign their passports upon receipt and reapply for a passport renewal “six months” before it expires. Please have the contact information of the United States Embassy on hand during your travels and leave
this information with a trusted source back home should your travel plans go awry.
Equally essential is an understanding of the travel laws that govern your destination. Each country has specific rules regarding what can be brought into and taken out of the country, including food, plants, animals, and other items. Be aware of any prohibited items to avoid fines or confiscation at customs. It is also imperative to familiarize yourself with local laws about alcohol, drugs, and other substances, as these can vary significantly from one country to another.
Travelers should also respect and adhere to local regulations concerning dress codes, especially in more conservative regions. Additionally, certain countries have restrictions on photography, particularly around military installations, government buildings, and religious sites, so ensure you are aware of these to avoid inadvertent legal issues.
Interstate and intrastate travel should be
a goal for those who desire domestic pleasure. Upon research, I found it fascinating that drivers are allowed to come to a complete stop and turn right on red in all states EXCEPT New York and Washington DC. Effective 2026 you will no longer be able to turn right on red in Atlanta, Georgia. Travelers are reminded that traffic lights, helicopters, and ANPR’s (Automatic Number Plate Recognition/toll cameras) are on hand to send the most undesirable postcard upon your return. Timely departures will allow you to travel effortlessly to your desired destination. Your carry-on luggage should include medications, snacks, identification, hygiene items, and travel funds to guide you along the way.
Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC proudly announces the NEXT LEVEL elevation etiquette series for youth ages 7 through 17. This is a 12-week program commencing April 2025 through July 2025, which entails effective communication, chivalry and deportment, hygiene etiquette, dining etiquette, tea party etiquette, cursive writing, public speaking, financial literacy, kitchen etiquette, household chore tips, and field trips. A formal dinner and graduation ceremony will climax this program.
We tailor to the unique needs of our customers during birthdays, anniversaries, public speaking, funeral arrangements, and emcee presentations. Please contact us at (318) 647-4495.
Spring Into Easter
With Live Oak Pharmacy
SPRING HAS ARRIVED, AND EASTER
is just around the corner! At Live Oak Pharmacy, we’re ready to help you celebrate the season with beautiful home décor, unique gifts, and thoughtful wellness essentials. Whether you’re decorating your home, filling Easter baskets, or looking for the perfect springtime accessories, we have everything you need.
Easter & Spring Décor
Live Oak Pharmacy is bursting with festive Easter finds! From charming Mud Pie door hangers to Easter and spring-themed home décor, we have the perfect pieces to bring a touch of seasonal joy to your home. Welcome guests in style with our adorable Easter tea towels and Easter door mats, and don’t forget to check out our Easter baskets, ready to be filled with goodies for your little ones.
Looking for a unique Easter basket stuffer? Our Live Animal Tracking Plushies by Simply Southern are an absolute hit. These soft, cuddly
animals come with a scannable QR code that lets kids track real wildlife, making them both educational and fun. Also, don’t forget the Mud Pie ballerinas that make the perfect Easter basket filler and upcoming dance recital gift!
Pickleball & Tennis Lovers, We’ve Got You Covered!
Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to hit the courts, and Live Oak Pharmacy has everything you need to show off your love for pickleball and tennis! Browse our collection of themed bags, towels, coffee mugs, hats, jewelry and so much more—the perfect accessories for any pickleball or tennis enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, you’ll love our stylish and functional gear.
The Meaning of Easter
While the excitement of Easter baskets and spring celebrations fill our hearts, the true meaning of Easter is at the center of the heart of the Live Oak team. We all view our faith as the core around which our lives are built and that
faith is the remembrance of the ultimate sacrifice made for each of us by Jesus Christ and the joy of the rebirth brought by His resurrection. Our hope is that everything we do at Live Oak helps to bring a glimpse of that joy to everyone we serve.
Spring into Wellness
As the seasons change, so do our health needs. Live Oak Pharmacy is your go-to destination for spring wellness. Stock up on essential vitamins, immune boosters, and wellness products to keep you feeling your best this season. Whether you need allergy relief, supplements, or simply want to refresh your health routine, our team is here to help you find the best products to support your well-being.
Stop by Live Oak Pharmacy today and let us help you celebrate Easter, refresh your home for spring, and stay well all season long! Our pharmacy is located at 2123 Forsythe Ave, Monroe and you can call us at 318.692.2426.
Don’t Ignore Varicose Veins
Delta Vein Care: The Ultimate Resource For Leg Vein Care
PEOPLE OFTEN CONSIDER varicose veins a “cosmetic problem,” but this health condition is more than skin deep. The good news? Delta Vein Care offers the latest technology that quickly gets you back on your feet.
Let’s clarify two other common myths surrounding varicose veins, which appear as blue or purple chords beneath the skin’s surface, typically on the legs.
Myth 1: Only women get varicose veins. While women are twice as likely to develop varicose veins, men are not immune. The number one indicator is family history.
Myth 2: Varicose vein treatment is painful. You may have heard about previous treatments such as “vein stripping” or other painful vein procedures. Pain is no longer part of the equation. Delta Vein Care uses the most advanced—and minimally invasive—technology.
Barbara Houston can attest to that
technology and the expertise of Dr. Bart Liles, a general surgeon at Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana—home of Delta Vein Care.
Barbara began dreading nighttime leg pain several years ago. “I could not sleep because of my significant leg and foot pain. My legs also felt extremely heavy. And, I would experience Restless Leg Syndrome,” she said. “I decided it was time to seek help.”
She said, “After my ultrasound, Dr. Liles explained the valves in my veins were no longer working properly. Then, he described how he would address my pain. He was so kind and upfront about everything. After our first meeting, I had so much hope, which meant everything to me.”
Barbara underwent three procedures— over three months—to treat vein reflux, which occurs when veins cease to circulate blood properly. Dr. Liles treated her with radiofrequency energy, which he inserted
through a small incision in the vein. This technique effectively heats and damages the vein wall, closing the varicose vein.
Her experience after the first procedure, which lasted less than an hour, was “nothing like she anticipated,” she said. “I didn’t have any pain after any of the procedures. I returned to work the very next day.”
Barbara vividly remembers her first night following the first procedure. “I was pain-free for the first time in years. It felt like a huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders. I knew I could once again live a normal existence,” she said. “I had such incredible results. I want people to know about this option; I want them to know you don’t have to simply live with this kind of pain.”
Leg vein disorders can impact our selfesteem and, most significantly, harm our long-term health. Read about our minimally invasive procedures, which last about one hour and allow our patients to resume normal activities the same day. Visit: surgeryclinicnela.com/delta/.
In addition to Dr. Liles, the Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana is home to surgeons Dr. Walter Sartor, Dr. Patrick Smith, and Dr. Mohamed Bakeer.
Insulin resistance has become a major health concern, linked to a growing epidemic of obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic health conditions. While diet— especially excessive sugar and refined carbohydrate intake—is often blamed as the primary driver, the reality is far more complex. Insulin resistance is not solely a result of poor dietary choices; it’s influenced by a range of physiological and biochemical imbalances that are frequently overlooked. Nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, gut health issues, liver function, adrenal health, fungal overgrowth, and even dietary fat composition all play significant roles in how the body responds to insulin. Understanding these underlying factors and addressing them can help restore metabolic balance and improve insulin sensitivity more effectively than dietary changes alone.
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows cells to take up glucose from the bloodstream and use it for energy. In insulin resistance, the cells become less responsive to insulin’s signals, leading to elevated blood glucose levels and prompting the pancreas to produce more insulin in an attempt to maintain balance. Over time, this increased insulin production can contribute to weight gain, increased inflammation, and ultimately, the development of type 2 diabetes if left unchecked. While insulin resistance is often linked to poor diet and obesity, a range of deeper physiological and biochemical factors can also drive this dysfunction.
One of the most overlooked drivers of insulin resistance is excessive saturated fat intake. While low-carb and ketogenic diets have gained popularity for improving blood
sugar control and promoting weight loss, their reliance on high saturated fat intake can paradoxically worsen insulin resistance in the long term.
Saturated fats are known to increase the concentration of free fatty acids (FFAs) in the bloodstream. Elevated FFAs promote the storage of fat within muscle and liver cells, which interferes with insulin signaling and reduces the ability of cells to take up glucose. High saturated fat intake also increases inflammatory markers and oxidative stress, which further impairs insulin receptor function.
Ketogenic and very low-carb diets (VLCDs) can initially improve blood sugar levels because they reduce the body’s reliance on glucose, causing fasting glucose and insulin levels to drop. However, the long-term impact of sustained high saturated fat intake includes increased fat storage in muscle and liver tissue, elevated fasting insulin levels despite low blood glucose, reduced muscle glucose uptake, and increased liver insulin resistance.
A diet high in monounsaturated fats (like olive oil and avocados) and polyunsaturated fats (like fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseed) appears to improve insulin sensitivity more effectively than one dominated by saturated fats (like butter, coconut oil, and red meat).
Insulin and glucose regulation pathways rely on various nutrients to function properly, and deficiencies in key nutrients, like thiamine (also known at B1) can be a causative factor of dysfunction. Thiamine is essential for glucose metabolism. It acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in the citric acid cycle, which helps convert carbohydrates into energy. A deficiency in B1 can impair glucose metabolism
BAYOU HEALTH
Insulin Resistance: Looking Beyond the Diet for Causes
BY SHANNON DAHLUM, FDN-P
and increase oxidative stress, making cells less responsive to insulin. Studies have shown that thiamine deficiency is common in individuals with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Supplementing with thiamine has been shown to improve glucose metabolism and reduce insulin resistance.
Candida overgrowth and mold toxicity are two overlooked causes of thiamine depletion. Candida produces acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct that binds to thiamine and makes it unavailable for use in cellular energy production. Mold exposure can similarly impair thiamine levels by increasing oxidative stress and depleting cellular reserves of key B vitamins.
When thiamine levels are low, glucose metabolism becomes impaired, which leads to higher circulating glucose levels and increased insulin production. This creates a vicious cycle where poor glucose regulation feeds further fungal overgrowth, since Candida thrives on sugar.
Signs of thiamine depletion due to Candida or mold toxicity include, fatigue, brain fog, muscle weakness, nerve pain or tingling, and sugar cravings.
Addressing fungal overgrowth by supporting healthy digestion (ensuring healthy stomach acid production, bile flow, and digestive enzyme production), supporting detoxification pathways, and potentially by including antifungal protocols (such as caprylic acid, oregano oil, and probiotics), can improve thiamine status and reduce insulin resistance.
Niacin is another vitally important nutrient for supporting this process. It is needed for the production of NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), a
critical molecule involved in cellular energy production and glucose metabolism. Low levels of NAD+ impair insulin signaling and mitochondrial function, contributing to insulin resistance. However, excess niacin supplementation can also impair glucose control by increasing insulin resistance, so balance is key.
Estrogen plays a complex role in glucose metabolism. While physiological levels of estrogen can enhance insulin sensitivity, estrogen dominance—characterized by high estrogen levels relative to progesterone— can worsen insulin resistance. Estrogen dominance increases inflammation, raises cortisol levels, and promotes fat storage, particularly in the abdominal area. Elevated estrogen levels also reduce thyroid function, which can further impair glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
Factors that contribute to estrogen dominance include, poor liver detoxification (inability to clear excess estrogen), exposure to xenoestrogens (from plastics, personal care products, pesticides), and low progesterone levels (due to stress, poor ovulation, or perimenopause).
The health of the gut lining also directly influences metabolic health. A compromised gut barrier (leaky gut) allows bacterial toxins known as lipopolysaccharides (LPS) to enter the bloodstream. LPS triggers an
immune response and increases systemic inflammation, which interferes with insulin signaling at the cellular level.
LPS and inflammation from leaky gut can impair insulin receptor function, making cells less responsive to insulin even when blood glucose levels are elevated. Healing the gut through probiotic support, increased fiber intake, and reducing inflammatory foods can decrease inflammation stemming from the gut and improve insulin sensitivity.
The liver plays a central role in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. When the liver becomes congested due to poor detoxification, fatty liver disease, or excessive alcohol consumption, it struggles to regulate glucose levels and respond to insulin.
Supporting liver health through targeted detoxification (such as NAC, milk thistle, and dandelion root) and reducing processed fats and alcohol can enhance insulin sensitivity.
Blood Markers to Assess Insulin Sensitivity
To evaluate insulin sensitivity and metabolic health, the following blood markers are useful:
• Fasting Blood Glucose – Optimal range: 75–85 mg/dL
• Fasting Insulin – Optimal range: 2–6 μIU/mL
• HbA1c– Optimal range: 4.8–5.2%
Helpful Nutritional Approaches Based on Lab Markers
• High Fasting Insulin and Glucose – If elevated, intermittent fasting (12–16 hours) may help reduce insulin resistance by lowering insulin production and supporting liver detoxification.
• Low Fasting Insulin and Glucose – If low, fasting is not advisable. Small, balanced meals rich in protein, fat, and complex carbs every 3–4 hours are more beneficial.
Insulin resistance is far more complex than just poor diet and weight gain. Saturated fat intake, nutrient deficiencies, estrogen dominance, gut health, adrenal function, liver congestion, and fungal overgrowth all play significant roles in glucose metabolism. A comprehensive approach that includes balancing fats, supporting gut health, restoring nutrient levels, and improving liver function will improve insulin sensitivity more effectively than restrictive dieting alone.
The Power of a Support System in Hearing Health
Get That Support With Advanced Audiology
LIVING WITH HEARING LOSS CAN BE hard at times, but having a strong support system makes it easier.
Your support system may include family, found family, friends, neighbors, members of your church or religious community—it’s anyone you can count on to be there for you throughout your hearing loss journey!
What the Research Says
When a trusted pal or devoted loved one shows up for you, your overall hearing health experience can get a boost. Here’s what research has revealed:
• Reduced emotional strain: People with hearing loss who have higher levels of social support report lower levels of anxiety, depression and stress.1 Since untreated hearing loss can sometimes lead to social isolation and loneliness, a support system can buffer against these outcomes by encouraging connection and communication.
• Improved care decisions: Patients with
hearing loss who bring a significant other to their audiology appointments are more likely to obtain a hearing aid than those who don’t.2 Having someone there to listen, ask questions and help process information is a big plus.
• Better experiences with hearing aids: Hearing aid users with positive support from significant others experience improved outcomes with their devices.3 A loved one’s encouragement may make you more likely to use your devices consistently and successfully.
Easy Ways to Include Your Support System
Sometimes, people want to help you but don’t know how. Here are some practical, impactful ways they can support you.
• Teach effective communication strategies: You can ask those close to you to adjust their communication habits to meet your needs. They should face you while talking so you can see their facial expressions and lip-read, and speak clearly and at a moderate pace.
• Attend appointments together: Suggest
that loved ones attend your audiologist appointments to better understand your condition and treatment options. They can help by taking notes, asking questions and offering an extra set of ears during discussions about hearing aids or other assistive devices.
• Engage in hearing-friendly activities: Choose activities such as watching movies with subtitles or attending events with assistive listening devices. It’s also nice to hang out in quieter social settings like outdoor picnics or small gatherings instead of crowded restaurants or concerts.
• Be open about feelings: Hearing loss can bring up difficult feelings for you and the people in your life. Encourage discussions about the emotional impact of hearing loss and how it affects daily life for you both.
Are you living with untreated hearing loss? Take the first step to better hearing by scheduling an evaluation with us—and invite someone in your support system to attend the appointment with you!
Bayou Buzzworthy
The Parish Pet Clinic, owned by Dr. Kelsey Stokes, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 6, 2025, at its location on Lamy Lane in Monroe, LA. This newest veterinary clinic in the area offers comprehensive veterinary services to the community. Local officials, community members, and pet owners gathered to welcome Dr. Stokes and her team to the neighborhood. The Parish Pet Clinic aims to provide quality care for pets throughout Monroe and the surrounding areas, offering a full range of medical services in their stateof-the-art facility.
On March 8th, the community showed up for a 5k run through downtown Monroe benefiting The Vine of Northeast Louisiana. Attendees enjoyed a HeBrews Coffee truck on-site, Josh Love’s music, Flying Tiger pizza, and a lot of fun! The race began and ended at Flying Tiger Brewery in the beautiful downtown Monroe area.
The Parish Pet Clinic
Now Open at 1912 Lamy Lane in Monroe
DR. KELSEY ALWAYS KNEW SHE was a veterinarian. “I have dreamed of being a veterinarian since I was probably 3-years old. I really never considered being anything else,” she said. Now, after years of dedication, she has made that dream a reality by opening The Parish Pet Clinic, a primary care veterinary practice.
Dr. Stokes graduated from Sterlington High School before attending Louisiana Tech University as a pre-veterinary major. After three years, she was accepted into the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, where she graduated in 2018. She began working in vet clinics shortly after high school. “I was so enthralled by veterinary medicine that I worked at a day practice and ER clinic overnight and on weekends all throughout college,” she explained. “Having that much experience before going to veterinary school gave me the unique ability to take what I was learning and relate it to cases I had seen.”
At LSU, Dr. Stokes served as president of the LSU Student American Veterinary Medical Association and was a board member of the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association. “I thrived in veterinary school and loved immersing myself in every opportunity I was presented with,” she said.
Since graduating, she and her husband, Benjamin, have built a family, raising their three children—Bennett (6), Catherine (4), and Bishop (2). While working in general practice, she helped open Premier Pet Emergency Clinic in May 2024. “The community has been so supportive of Premier, and it has been beyond rewarding to be a part of such a needed service for our community,” she shared.
Opening her own practice was always a goal, but she didn’t expect it to happen so soon. When the opportunity arose, she felt it was the right path. “I truly felt that God had me where I needed to be, and I wasn’t looking for another opportunity. The opportunity to
open The Parish Pet Clinic fell into place in such a way that I have no way to explain it other than God’s will. So here we are!”
The Parish Pet Clinic offers comprehensive care, including wellness and sick visits, lab work, dermatology, allergy testing, behavioral assessments, advanced dental procedures, radiology, ultrasound, surgeries, and chronic disease management. “I love treating the whole pet and educating clients, which is why I love primary care,” Dr. Stokes said. She has a particular interest in dentistry, ultrasound, emergency care, and chronic disease management, and she is Fear Free certified. “We pay extra attention to the fear, anxiety, and stress that our patients are experiencing and do everything we can to minimize it.”
Dr. Stokes is also grateful for her team. “Emily and Brittany are two of the kindest people that I have had the privilege of working with, and they work together beautifully as a team. They are supportive, caring, empathetic, and always working to expand their knowledge and use that knowledge to provide better care for their patients. I couldn’t do what I do without them.”
With The Parish Pet Clinic, Dr. Stokes is fulfilling her dream while providing compassionate care to the pets in her community. Her passion and dedication to client education ensure that both pets and their owners receive the best care.
Tower Place Conference Rooms and Event Space
Versatile Space for Groups of 2 - 100
TOWER PLACE IN MONROE, LA, HAS long been a go-to destination for local businesses and organizations needing versatile and fully equipped event spaces. With a total of seven conference rooms of varying sizes, Tower Place is an ideal location for meetings, seminars, networking events, and more. These rooms are designed to meet the needs of today’s professional environment, combining modern technology with comfort and convenience.
Each of the conference rooms at Tower Place is equipped with a computer, large screen, camera, microphone, and speakers, ensuring seamless communication for in-person and virtual attendees. The rooms are set up to support a variety of events, from intimate meetings to large corporate seminars. And with internet access, printing, scanning, and copying services available, your event will have all the tools it needs for success.
Tower Place recently renovated its space and introduced two new conference rooms on the third floor. These new rooms, along with
the rest of the spaces, have all been renamed to reflect Louisiana’s native trees, adding a natural touch to the modern facilities. Here’s a closer look at each room:
Red Maple Room - Ideal for smaller groups, this room has a capacity of up to 10 people. It features internet access, a built-in whiteboard, and a comfortable setup for collaborative discussions.
Sweetgum Room - Also for up to 10 people, this room offers a computer, large screen, camera, and mic/speaker, making it perfect for video conferences or presentations.
Cypress Room - For groups of up to 12, the Cypress Room is equipped with all the necessary technology, including internet, computer, large screen, camera, and microphone.
Magnolia Room - With a capacity of up to 50, this room offers flexible set-up options and is designed for larger meetings or seminars.
Pecan Room - This spacious room accommodates up to 60 people and features an 85-inch screen, built-in speakers, and a variety of
layout options for your event’s needs.
Pines Room & Live Oak Room - These two rooms are designed for up to 80 people each, offering 95-inch screens and Poly Video Bar Conferencing Systems, compatible with Zoom and Teams, making them ideal for hybrid events or larger conferences.
River Birch Terrace & Banquet Room - For more extensive events, this room can host up to 200 guests, with tables and seating for 100. It’s perfect for receptions, nonprofit fundraisers, or corporate networking events. The room includes a portable screen and internet access, with catering options available to elevate your event.
All the conference rooms have been recently updated with new tables, and the new rooms on the third floor have received complete renovations, including fresh paint, new carpet, updated blinds, and cutting-edge video conferencing equipment. Whether you’re hosting a corporate meeting, a training seminar, or a networking event, Tower Place offers the ideal space and the technology to match.
Meredith’s Musings
ANCIENT EPIGRAPHS
article by MEREDITH MCKINNIE
As we meandered through the uncrowded London streets that Sunday morning, I glanced at Husband looking up randomly from Google Maps to confirm landmarks. We were headed to Brompton Cemetery in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Established in 1840, Brompton features over 35,000 monuments and is the burial site of 250,000 people. When I first mentioned to Husband that I put a cemetery on the itinerary, he didn’t question me. We faced a hard, unexpected death that year when my little sister passed, and I assume he thought I was dealing with the grief in my own way. Perhaps I was, and still am. Drawn to Europe by its longstanding history that dwarfs America’s timeline, I longed to see how people hundreds of years ago honored the dead, how Europeans worded those ancient epigraphs, and how they carved love into tombstones.
In America, or at least in my corner of the South, I think of cemeteries in the context of religion, as they are frequently adjacent churches, with waist-high tombstones that force us to look down at the deceased. Some bear a marking barely elevated from the ground, and far too many are unacknowledged at all. In contrast, Brompton Cemetery’s monuments forced me to lift my chin toward the sky, battling the sun to decipher dedications and the names of the dead. Ravens and magpies soared through the trees along the property, randomly landing on angel monuments and commanding our attention. You would think
the black birds would add an ominous quality to the atmosphere, but they did the oppositethey showcased life and movement, a reminder of what death leaves behind. We found the gravesites of Dr. John Snow, the father of anesthesia, and Emmeline Pankhurst, the feminist who fought for women’s right to vote in England. As we admired the craftsmanship of the sky-high structures, we stumbled upon a plaque from the cemetery reminding us of the price of poverty, that a towering monument was a luxury reserved for those who could afford it. I thought, “Even in death, we idolize the rich.”
Unlike the church cemeteries I’ve visited here at home, this burial site was woven into the fabric of the city. The imposing stone walls guard the property and open on either end with royal-esque black iron gates, with an operating café just inside. The blacktop roads running through the monuments are not abandoned, but sparsely populated by runners, dog walkers, and slow strollers. No one looked sad or even somber, but more like passersby on a quiet street. The wildflowers edged through the gaps in the concrete, another sign of life in a site dedicated to post-life. Husband and I roamed for an hour or so and could have stayed much longer. We marveled at the stones commemorating those from the mid-1800s. Something about the expansive time and distance put my grief into perspective. While the hurt of losing my sister may feel unique to me, loss is a universal experience, only made relevant by the past.
In Paris, we visited two more - Pere Lachaise
and Montparnasse. The French cemeteries relied on lower walls, ensconced in the fabric of the city. In Pere Lachaise, we found Simone de Beauvoir’s headstone, covered in lipstick kisses and dried roses. At Montparnasse, we searched for authors Gertrude Stein and Richard Wright, for the humble site of Jim Morrison from The Doors. A metal gate surrounded the Morrison perimeter - fans had decorated the metal with music stickers and band memorabilia. The latter cemetery was built on a hill, and traversing the property required us climbing hundreds of feet into its corners. While standing beside one monument, we would look down on a thousand others. I thought, Should a cemetery be this beautiful? Should maybe all cemeteries be this beautiful? We spoke few words and kept veering away from one another only to stumble upon one another later along the path. Some of the monuments stretched several stories high. I wondered if the sites on higher ground cost more, if Parisians coveted a burial close to the clouds. Oscar Wilde’s monument was surrounded by a glass wall, a barrier for those who might tarnish the sculpture. I thought of celebrities being hounded by the public, and how even in death, people want to get close. It’s why I was there.
The irony of investing so much time in these cemeteries is not lost on me. I rarely visit tombstones of people I knew in my life, finding no comfort in staring at a stone. But here, among deceased strangers, I found just that. I found community and peace that transcended time and circumstance.
I REMEMBER
A LESSON THAT A MISSIONARY FROM OUR DENOMINATION TAUGHT OUR CHILDREN AND, AT THE SAME TIME, BROUGHT ITS TRUTH TO MY MEMORY.
This all took place when our two youngsters were in elementary school.
It it the practice of our church for missionaries to visit those churches which give them financial and prayer support. These visits usually take place when the missionary is on furlough, which they experience every four years. It was on such a visit that the lesson took place.
This particular visit was set for the week of Christmas and our guest wanted
ARTICLE BY PAUL LIPE
to get home to celebrate with his own youngsters. A storm was forecast that had the potential of closing the Monroe airport. Such a action would prevent our missionary from being with his children for Christmas. A barrier to his plans was inclement weather which could force him to postpone his travel. He needed the weather to clear up ...right then! In opposition to his prayers were those of my kids. They were praying for a heavy snow
which would close schools.
Following our evening worship service, we were gathered in our den to listen to the weather report and to devise our plan according to what we learned from our report. Thankfully the weather report was welcomed by both my kids and the missionary. The storm was not predicted to be so severe to close the runways in Monroe. However, the storm was to be strong enough to produce several inches of snow and to close schools. This report pleased both the missionary, who would be able to spend Christmas with his children, and our children to be dismissed from school so they could build a snowman and play in the snow.
It was at this time the missionary taught his lesson. He said to us, and particularly to our children, "Isn’t our God so wonderful. With His love and through His power he was able to answer your prayers and to answer mine.”
This truth of God‘s love and power in the lives of so many of us has brought countless blessings, even when circumstances seem to be working against us. May we learn to trust Him who uses His power and demonstrates His love for the blessings of His children.
Stewart’s Sourdough
As the adage goes, necessity is the mother of invention. And in 2022, Katy Alexander found herself needing to become her own boss after a tedious college experience forced her to consider other avenues of success. Self-motivated and with a proclivity for social media and acute research skills, she took her chances as an entrepreneur. Two businesses in and twenty-three years young, Alexander is in the process of carrying out her five-year plan which includes growing her cottage bakery, Stewart’s Sourdough, and planning a sustainable living as a future wife and mother.
ARTICLE BY VANELIS RIVERA AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK
A native of Shreveport, Alexander moved to Monroe with her parents when her father got promoted at work. She was always a college-bound student with the goal of becoming a teacher. During her senior year, she was driven by her “teacher mindset” and a heart for children. “This is my calling,” she thought. Enthused and ready to engage with her discipline, she applied for an internship at a preschool, but her experience revealed a lack of passion. Not having any other options at the time, she pursued a degree in education at the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM). After a year, her initial career doubts persisted. “This is what I’ve been set on literally since I was a kid,” she remembers thinking, revealing the overwhelming realization of having to change her major. Admittedly with too much haste and no research, she jumped from education to radiologic technology (Rad Tech). “It was so much structure,” says Alexander, who rapidly realized being told what to do is not her forte. She thought of having to work in the same environment every day and was becoming unmotivated at not having a natural knack for the coursework. “Human anatomy about killed me,” she laughs, remembering having thought, “Well, I may not make it here.” Banking on the validity of the idiom, the third time’s the charm, she changed to marketing, a move driven by her social media savvy and interest in becoming a social media influencer. “I touched that for two seconds and then took a break,” she says, trusting that taking time away from college would reveal a better path.
“What am I going to do now?” Alexander thought. As she pondered her options, she began to nanny while freelancing as a spray tan technician. But when her employer’s child started kindergarten, she found herself at another crossroads—go back to school or find a way to make more money in the tanning business. Not liking the idea of clocking in and out of a job for
the rest of her life, she opted to become her own boss. She went full throttle into entrepreneurship by leaning into social media marketing to grow her first mobile tanning service, The Tan Taxi. “And that’s when I got so busy out of nowhere. It was unreal. I could not believe it,” she says. The fast-paced traction her business gained allowed her to expand her tanning services to a salon, adding cosmetic teeth whitening to her repertoire, as well as a unique variety of retail products. Able to support herself financially, she decided to extend her leave from college eager to discover where else she could grow.
“Then I randomly took a sourdough class one day,” Alexander says. The initial interest arrived from TikTok videos of bakers artfully scoring dough in elaborate patterns and designs. “I could never do that,” she thought, as she kept thumbing through the inspiring video reels. When she heard of a sourdough workshop being offered in Columbia, she didn’t hesitate to sign up with her mother. Though she took the class for fun, the sourdough craft did not initially come easily. The amount of upkeep and precision sourdough calls
for was overwhelming and she wasn’t thrilled at the idea that it would take her a week to make one loaf of bread. When she got home that day, she shoved the ancient sourdough she had been given at the workshop into the fridge, too intimidated to open it. But each video reel of talented bakers tugged at her curiosity. She finally caved and started feeding her sourdough.
As someone who likes to be perfect right away, Alexander was relieved that her first loaf “turned out great.” Another point of pride in her first bake was being able to venture into culinary skills she always admired in her mother. “My mom loves to bake, loves to cook, loves to host, and I just always looked up to that but never tried to learn,” she informs, also mentioning her desire to “make a house a home” as a soon-to-be wife come May. A hobby soon became an obsession, and she finally got brave enough to start experimenting with sourdough discard recipes like scones and cookies. During this baking frenzy, Alexander was posting videos and pictures of her bakes on social media just to show off her skills. The online reception she received encouraged
Customers should expect to see, on occasion, white chocolate and raspberry scones, jalapeño cheddar loaf, and her most anticipated bake— her soft and airy, sourdough chocolate chip cookies.
her to take some bakes to her salon where word of mouth led to sporadic order requests. “And then that got crazy,” she says. In September 2024, she officially turned another passion into a business. Named after her soon-to-be last name, Stewart’s Sourdough is a licensed cottage bakery offering weekly online menu drops for pick up in West Monroe.
Sourdough devotees will be happy to know that Alexander’s weekly drops are varied and often incorporate seasonal flavors. Last February’s bakes celebrated Valentine’s Day in the form of a heart-shaped loaf, sourdough cinnamon rolls with pink cream cheese frosting, and a golden-crusted chocolate-covered strawberry loaf. The Mardi Gras season inspired Alexander to make her first-ever king cake, which she describes as a “slice of Louisiana magic.” Customers should also expect to see, on occasion, white chocolate and raspberry scones, jalapeño cheddar loaf, and her most anticipated bake—her soft and airy, sourdough chocolate chip cookies. Made using her signature sourdough base, the tangy take on this classic sweet has quickly become her favorite, as well.
A quick scroll through the bakery’s Instagram and Facebook page reveals standout bakes, a result of a few mastered baking skills. Thus far, she has ventured into dyeing her sourdough pink using organic sweet potato powder and using flour dusting to help create a rustic and artisanal look. “I try to keep it fun and do new stuff.” Recently, she has been experimenting with sourdough cake recipes. Her first try was a couple of months ago when she tested a snickerdoodle cake recipe on her family. Of course, it was a success. So now she is toying with a lemon cake recipe, hinting at a possible drop in the near future.
Alexander credits her Type A personality, dedication to research, and the unrelenting support of her family and fiancé for the success she has reached with both businesses. It takes a particular level of confidence to pursue a business and baking with little to no experience, but Alexander is proof that persistence can be an effective teacher. She thinks of her initial trepidations about sourdough and the potential she saw in her first loaf. “It may be super hard, but there’s nothing like eating a loaf that you made from scratch; it’s unreal,” she exclaims. Though some questioned her pursuits, she leaned on the advice of one of her contemporaries, owner of the Good Daze Hartley Waldrop Arendsen. “That’s my girl,” enthuses Alexander who was inspired by Arendsen’s story which started with a pop-up shop and ended with a brick-and-mortar in Downtown Monroe. “She gave me all the tips,” says Alexander, which included the words of wisdom, “Don’t let anyone tell you that you cannot do it.”
Looking back, Alexander considers her move away from academia as the first time she made a decision for herself, a feat she does not take lightly. It was the confidence boost she needed to feel like anything was possible. And now that she has gotten a taste for business and baking, she is ready to finish her marketing degree at ULM. Though this doesn’t mean she is planning to grow Stewart’s Sourdough (for now), it is a decision made with her future in mind, one that includes children: “I’m trying to set up a sustainable living for the future with the bakery, so I can have some income coming in and be able to work from home and stay with my babies.”
A nurturer at heart, Alexander enjoys making people feel loved and at home. As a spirited gift giver, she has discovered that one of her love languages is dedicating time to creating warm baked goods that simply make people happy.
You Found the Perfect Home
You Need a Title Company!
CONGRATULATIONS ON FINDING THE PERFECT
home! What’s next? Inspections, appraisals, loan application and the closing, and for a closing, you need to choose a Title Company.
North Delta Title Company has been helping individuals purchase their new homes for over 31 years and has closed over 40,000 transactions throughout the State of Louisiana. They have one goal: To make your closing process as smooth and effortless as possible while protecting your ownership in your new home. They want to be your first choice when choosing a Title Company.
So why choose North Delta Title?
North Delta Title is a family owned business where attorneys, Kirby Price and his daughter, Amy Price, want you to feel like family in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. Buying a home should be a fun and exciting time and North Delta Title wants to take the stress out of the closing process. The staff is always willing to go the extra mile to answer any question you might have or resolve any unexpected issues that may come up during the process. And the vast knowledge of the staff and attorneys can help solve almost any issue that may arise.
Both Kirby and Amy are lifelong residents of Ouachita Parish and are deeply rooted in the community. They consider it an honor and privilege to help people become homeowners and take roots in the community. When asked why she loves her job, Amy enthusiastically responded, “What’s better than helping someone find a home to love, raise a family, have a dog, or just play in their own yard? That’s what makes a community thrive and that is why we love what we do. We get to be a small part of a huge accomplishment while at the same time having a front row seat at a great moment in their lives.”
North Delta Title Company wants to be your choice when choosing a title company. So, visit their website at www.northdeltatitle.com or call Amy and Kirby at 318.387.1100 with any questions. You can also email them at aprice@northdeltatitle.com or kprice@northdeltatitle.com. They are here to help and look forward to helping make your dreams of home ownership a reality.
Kim Lolley Designs
The Hallmark of Southern Dressing
SOUTHERN FASHION HAS ALWAYS BEEN MORE THAN JUST clothing—it’s a statement of heritage, hospitality, and grace. It tells a story of refinement, where tradition meets modern sophistication, and where every button, pleat, and pattern carries meaning. Kim Lolley Designs embodies this legacy, crafting pieces that not only honor Southern charm but redefine it for today’s woman.
At the heart of this signature style are flattering silhouettes, feminine details, and an appreciation for clothing that is as elegant as it is wearable. Southern dressing has long embraced a balance of sophistication and charm, where beauty is found in thoughtful details—whether it’s a neatly tied bow at the waist, a dramatic puff sleeve, or the way a full skirt moves with effortless grace. These aren’t just aesthetic choices; they represent a way of life where elegance is second nature, and dressing well is an act of self-respect and confidence.
The Lasting Influence of Southern Fashion Certain styles have stood the test of time because they capture something more than just fleeting trends—they embody a sense of timeless beauty. The puff sleeve, for example, has been a defining element of feminine fashion for generations. It adds drama, romance, and a touch of nostalgia while still feeling fresh and modern. Whether sculpted and structured for a regal look or soft and billowy for an effortless silhouette, this detail has remained a hallmark of elegant dressing.
These elements, along with classic collars, fitted bodices, and intricate patterns, have shaped the wardrobes of women who appreciate clothing that makes them feel polished and poised. Kim Lolley Designs weaves these timeless features into each collection, ensuring that every piece is more than just something to wear—it’s something to cherish.
Vintage-Inspired Fashion: A Love Letter to Timeless Elegance Kim Lolley Designs is built on the belief that some things should never go out of style. Vintage fashion, after all, isn’t about looking back—it’s about carrying forward a sense of refinement, femininity, and grace that has always been relevant.
From the cinched waistlines that flatter every figure to the delicate covered buttons that add just the right touch of sophistication, each design is thoughtfully crafted to bring out the best in the women who wear them. The beauty of vintage-inspired dressing is that it doesn’t try to chase trends. Instead, it creates a wardrobe that feels timeless, filled with pieces that transition effortlessly from season to season and occasion to occasion.
Each Kim Lolley piece is a modern heirloom, meant to be worn, loved, and passed down—whether that means a mother sharing her favorite dress with her daughter or a woman finding that one perfect outfit she reaches for again and again.
Kim Lolley Designs: Where Southern Grace Meets Modern Style Southern fashion is about more than just aesthetics; it’s a way of embracing the world with confidence, warmth, and a deep appreciation for beauty. It’s about knowing that style isn’t just about how you look—it’s about how you carry yourself, how you honor traditions, and how you add a little touch of elegance to everyday life.
Kim Lolley Designs is at the heart of this movement, ensuring that the legacy of graceful, refined fashion lives on in every stitch, every pleat, and every carefully chosen fabric. In a world that moves fast, there is something powerful about clothing that slows us down, makes us appreciate the details, and reminds us that true elegance never fades.
With each collection, Kim Lolley Designs isn’t just celebrating vintage-inspired fashion—it’s redefining what it means to be timeless.
Celebrate Easter in Style
With The Children’s Shoppe
SPRING IS IN THE AIR, AND EASTER IS JUST AROUND the corner! That means it’s time to start thinking about dressing your little ones in their Sunday best and filling their Easter baskets with joy. The Children’s Shoppe, with locations in Monroe and Ruston, is your one-stop destination for everything Easter— offering an exquisite selection of boys’ and girls’ Easter attire, as well as charming toys and gifts perfect for Easter baskets.
The Perfect Easter Outfits for Boys and Girls
Dressing your child for Easter Sunday is a tradition that brings joy to families year after year. At The Children’s Shoppe, we carry a beautiful selection of classic and contemporary Easter outfits that will have your little ones looking picture-perfect for church, brunch, and egg hunts alike.
For girls, we offer stunning dresses in soft pastels, delicate florals, and timeless smocked styles. Whether you prefer a traditional bishop dress or a modern, twirl-worthy frock, our collection ensures your little girl will shine on Easter morning. Complete her look with precious accessories like bonnets, bows, and ruffled socks.
Boys can also dress to impress with our charming selection of button-up shirts, seersucker shorts, suspender sets, and dapper suits. We carry styles that range from classic Southern charm to trendy and modern, ensuring that your little gentleman looks sharp and festive. Pair his outfit with coordinating shoes and an adorable bowtie to complete the ensemble.
Easter Basket Must-Haves
Easter wouldn’t be complete without a basket full of surprises, and The Children’s Shoppe has the cutest selection of toys, books, and gifts to make your child’s Easter extra special. Our shelves are stocked with plush bunnies, wooden toys, sensory-friendly playthings, and sweet storybooks that capture the magic of the season. Looking for non-candy alternatives? We have everything from art supplies and puzzles to bath toys and personalized gifts that will keep little hands busy long after the Easter egg hunt is over.
For an extra touch of personalization, consider our monogramming options for Easter baskets, plush toys, and apparel. A custom touch makes for a cherished keepsake that your child will love for years to come.
Shop Local for Easter
Shopping at The Children’s Shoppe means supporting a local business that has been a staple in the Monroe and Ruston communities for years. Our team is dedicated to helping parents and grandparents find the perfect outfit and gifts for every occasion, and Easter is no exception! We offer personalized service, expert styling advice, and a carefully curated selection of high-quality children’s items that you won’t find anywhere else.
Visit The Children’s Shoppe in Monroe or Ruston today and let us help you create the perfect Easter memories. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect outfit or looking to fill your child’s Easter basket with something special, we have everything you need to make this Easter one to remember.
Hop on in soon—Easter is fast approaching, and these adorable finds won’t last long!
Adopt A Road Program
The City of West Monroe, Keep West Monroe Beautiful and Ouachita Green Launch Program
THE CITY OF WEST MONROE, together with Keep West Monroe Beautiful and Ouachita Green, recently announced the launch of an Adopt a Road Program that provides an opportunity for local businesses and organizations to adopt roadways within the City of West Monroe.
The Adopt a Road Program was launched on Feb. 27 at the West Monroe West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce office. West Monroe Mayor Staci Mitchell explained the program is a way to engage the public to keep our roads clean and litter free. This program perfectly aligns with the community campaign of “Take West Monroe to the Next Level.”
There is no fee to participate in the Adopt a Road Program. Any business, organization, civic group, school, etc. is eligible to adopt a local roadway within West Monroe’s city limits. Groups agree to
adopt at least a mile of local roadway and clean that area up to four times a year.
Since the initial launch of the program, more than half a dozen organizations have already agreed to adopt a local roadway. As the state prepares to celebrate Keep Louisiana Beautiful’s “Love the Boot Week” the week of April 7, local leaders believe this is the perfect time to commit to adopting a local roadway and becoming an active part of improving our community’s outward appearance.
“We have so many exciting things happening in our region and opportunities for significant economic growth,” said West Monroe Mayor Staci Mitchell. “It’s critical that we continue to put our best foot forward and that starts with the community’s appearance. We encourage the community to join our efforts to Take West Monroe to the Next Level.”
The City of West Monroe and Keep West Monroe Beautiful will have a street sign made with that organization’s name on it, and the sign will be posted along that particular adopted roadway.
For more information about the Adopt a Road Program or a list of eligible roadways to be adopted, please contact Keep West Monroe Beautiful at info@kwmb.
Spring Into Beauty
At DermaMediQ’s Open House Event!
SPRING IS IN THE AIR, AND THERE’S no better time to refresh, renew, and rejuvenate! DermaMediQ, Monroe’s premier medical spa, invites you to our highly anticipated Spring Open House at our location on Lamy Lane. Join us as we celebrate the season of renewal with an evening filled with beauty, education, and exclusive perks!
Gather your friends for this fabulous event featuring delicious refreshments, exciting door prizes, giveaways, live service demonstrations, and complimentary consultations with our expert team. Whether you’re a long-time client or brand-new to the world of medical aesthetics, this is the perfect opportunity to explore our cuttingedge treatments and learn how to achieve your beauty goals.
What to Expect at the Open House:
• Live Demonstrations – See firsthand
how our most popular treatments work and learn about the latest advancements in aesthetic medicine.
• Injectable Specials – Curious about Botox or fillers? Our team will be on hand to answer all your questions and provide expert guidance on achieving a naturally refreshed look. Plus, take advantage of exclusive event-only pricing on injectables!
• Giveaways & Door Prizes – Enter to win amazing prizes, from free treatments to skincare goodies, just for attending!
• One-on-One Consultations – Not sure where to start? Our experienced professionals will be available for complimentary consultations to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your skin and beauty needs.
• Exclusive Event Discounts – Enjoy special pricing on services and products only available during the Open House.
At DermaMediQ, we believe that confidence starts with self-care, and our team is dedicated to helping you look and feel your best. Whether you’re interested in anti-aging treatments, skin rejuvenation, or body contouring, we offer a wide range of state-of-the-art, non-invasive procedures designed to enhance your natural beauty. Don’t miss this chance to experience the DermaMediQ difference in a fun and welcoming atmosphere! Bring a friend, enjoy some delicious bites, and discover how our treatments can help you achieve a glowing, youthful complexion just in time for spring. Stay tuned for more details, and be sure to follow us on social media for event updates and sneak peeks! We can’t wait to see you there!
For more information, call DermaMediQ at (318) 410-1555 or visit us at 1705 Lamy Lane, Monroe.
9th Annual Women’s Symposium
On March 11th, the 9th annual Women’s Symposium took place at the Bayou Pointe Event Center at ULM, bringing together inspiring women from across the community. The keynote address was delivered by Lissy Sanders Compton, who shared the journey that led her to become the founder of Mr. P’s Tees, the owner of Compton Farms, and a dedicated art teacher in Ouachita Parish. Adding to the day’s inspiration, special guest Julia Letlow joined virtually from Washington, D.C., delivering an empowering message to attendees. The symposium also featured an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding women in the community, while guests enjoyed a luncheon. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in engaging panel discussions and a Strength Finders Workshop led by Melanie Massey, making the event both enriching and impactful.
Louisiana Mohs & Skin Surgery Center Expands
Welcoming Nurse Practitioner Anna Titus & New Skincare Offerings
DR. CAITLIN ROBINSON, DOUBLE
board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, is proud to bring advanced skin cancer treatment to her hometown of Monroe. Since opening Louisiana Mohs & Skin Surgery Center in June 2023, she has remained committed to delivering expert care using the latest techniques and a patient-centered approach.
Welcoming Nurse Practitioner Anna Titus
The practice is pleased to welcome Anna Titus, FNP-C, a West Monroe native, to the team. Anna earned her undergraduate degree from Louisiana Tech University and her Master of Science in Nursing from ULM. As a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, she specializes in skin cancer detection, general dermatology, and cosmetic procedures. Her expertise enhances the practice’s ability to provide comprehensive community skin care.
Now Offering EltaMD Sunscreens
Louisiana Mohs & Skin Surgery Center now carries EltaMD Sunscreens, a leading dermatologist recommended brand. These broad-spectrum sunscreens feature transparent zinc oxide for superior UV protection while being gentle on sensitive skin. Available in tinted and non-tinted options, EltaMD products help prevent skin cancer and premature aging, making them an essential addition to any skincare routine.
Expert Skin Cancer & Dermatology Services
• Mohs Surgery & Skin Cancer Treatment – Precise, tissue-sparing procedures for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other skin cancers.
•Biopsies & Excision of Skin Cancers –Accurate diagnosis and removal of suspicious or malignant lesions.
•Removal of Benign Lesions – Safe
excision of cysts, lipomas, and other skin irregularities.
•Cosmetic & Reconstructive Treatments
– Neurotoxins, fillers, laser treatments, microneedling, PRF injections, and chemical peels.
•Earlobe Repairs & Piercings – Surgical earlobe repair and professional ear piercings.
As the only ACMS fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon in northern Louisiana, Dr. Robinson provides expert surgical and cosmetic dermatology services with a focus on early detection and optimal results.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit lamohs.com.
Fashion Fusion 2025
Fashion Fusion 2025 lit up the Monroe Civic Center on Saturday, March 8th, bringing style and purpose together on the runway. Hosted by DBK Dance and Performing Arts, the event showcased stunning looks from local boutiques, all in support of a meaningful cause—the Cancer Foundation League.
On the BayouScene
1 Hannah and Joey Gardunio
2 Anna Grace Mashaw, Laura Holmes and Anna Marie Harrod
3 Ashley Nadler, Dusty Burns and Erin Caldwell
4 Bailey Harrist, Rylee Holubec, Adisyn Fuller and Madeline Beach
5 Debbie Herrington and Stephanie Osborne
6 Camdyn Clark, Kyle Bennett, Brett King, Kyle Thomas and Reese Burnett
7 Esther Guilde, Emma Murry and Abby Murry
8 Kaylee Simple, Maggie Dunn and Hannah Moore
9 Lindsay Matthew, Mandi Grace Gaspard, Brooke Schmitt and Hannah McKinley
10 Mackenzie Salter, Melissa Ring and Hannah Wofford
11 Paul Bryant, Leighanna Clifton, Grace Brazzell and Marlee Brazzell
12 Presley Head, Sterling Head, Alex Peters and Alexa Bradshaw
13 Kim and Emily Essex
14 Renee Reed and Lindsey Morrow
Dr. Frank Bruscato Endowed Scholarship
Lana and Dr. Vince Forte Establish Scholarship
THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
Monroe announced the creation of the Dr. Frank Bruscato Endowed Scholarship for Excellence in Chemistry and Leadership at a press conference on March 10. Dr. Bruscato was a professor of chemistry at ULM for 43 years. He retired in 2007. The scholarship was established with a $25,000 gift from Dr. Vince Forte, a former student of Dr. Bruscato, and his wife, Lana Forte.
The scholarship is designated for deserving chemistry and/or pre-med students to enable them to pursue their college degree but, as importantly, give them awareness on the prerequisites necessary to make a formal application to medical school. This scholarship will recognize students who embody the core values of hard work, empathy, service to others, integrity, and honesty in their academic and personal lives.
Dr. Vince Forte is a locally practicing physician who credits Dr. Frank Bruscato with
inspiring him to pursue a career in medicine. After Dr. Forte took Dr. Bruscato’s organic chemistry class at ULM (then NLU), the two formed a friendship that has lasted for 40 years.
“It’s an honor to stand before you today to recognize and celebrate an individual whose unwavering commitment to education, mentorship, and leadership has shaped the lives of countless people. Today we’re here not just to express our gratitude but to ensure that Dr. Bruscato’s impact will continue for generations to come through this lifetime endowed scholarship,” said Dr. Forte.
Dr. Bruscato expressed gratitude as he addressed the crowd gathered at the press conference. “I am humbled to the greatest degree by all of you that are here today and the generosity of a former student who made a difference in his life by coming here and developing his family and his practice. I was so fortunate to be on this campus for over 43 years. I’d like to thank you for the honor and
recognition of this scholarship established in my name,” said Bruscato.
Students wishing to receive the Dr. Frank Bruscato Endowed Scholarship for Excellence in Chemistry and Leadership must be a full-time sophomore, junior, or senior student majoring in pre-med or chemistry with the intention of applying to medical school. In addition to a minimum GPA of 3.7, applicants must provide lists of their community service, as well as a personal statement detailing their motivation for pursuing a medical degree. Dr. Forte says the rigorous application process for the scholarship mirrors the preparation that will be required for students to apply to medical school.
ULM President Dr. Ron Berry thanked the Fortes for their recognition of Dr. Bruscato. “Thank you for investing in the future of our students and for honoring the past of this great university and so many lives that have been changed due to the efforts of Dr. Bruscato,” said Dr. Berry.
“Great educators do more than just teach formulas and theories,” said Dr. Forte. “They inspire, they challenge, and they uplift. Dr. Bruscato has embodied that truth in every aspect of his career.” Dr. Forte closed by adding, “For me, this is not a financial award, it’s a symbol of friendship and reflection of the mentorship that transforms lives, and the commitment to continuing the legacy of an educator who has given so much to this community.”
The Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana hosted its 9th Annual Empty Bowls event on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the Monroe Civic Center. This sold-out fundraiser featured a tasting from over a dozen local restaurants, live music, a silent auction, and more. Guests selected handcrafted bowls to take home as a reminder of the empty bowls in the community. All proceeds benefited the Food Bank’s hunger relief efforts in Northeast Louisiana.
3
5 Bonnie Robinette and Stewart Robinette
6 James Miles and Tamecia Jenkins
7 Babs
8
Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup Finalists Announced
Awards Luncheon to be held Thursday, April 10
THE ENTREPRENEURSHIP PELICAN
Cup competition has announced the finalist teams for the 2025 competition. Six finalist teams have been selected to compete in the oral finals, and the winners will be announced at the 4th Annual Awards Luncheon on Thursday, April 10, at 11:30 a.m. at Bayou Pointe Event Center on the ULM campus. Tickets are on sale now for $100 for the public and $50 for students. Visit www.ulm.edu/pelicancup for ticket and sponsorship information.
The finalists were announced in a video on March 7, 2025, by Dr. Michelle McEacharn, Dean of the ULM College of Business and Social Sciences. The video can be viewed at www.facebook.com/ TheEntrepreneurshipPelicanCup.
Open to all majors, the goal of The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup is to inspire participants and the community to think entrepreneurially by rewarding creativity, professionalism, and hard work.
The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup is open
to any full- or part-time, certificate- or degreeseeking student enrolled in a four-year college or university in Louisiana.
The competition requires a written formal business plan judged by business owners and investors. The six finalists will compete in the oral finals on March 25 at ULM. Also, during the awards luncheon, each team will select one member to conduct a 90-second “Elevator Pitch,” and the winner will receive a $2,000 cash award.
The 2025 Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup Competition is the largest yet, with 34 entries from eight universities across Louisiana. “We are thrilled to see the Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup continue to grow and evolve, and we look forward to hosting finalists from across the state as we showcase their innovative and entrepreneurial spirit!” said Dr. Michelle McEacharn, Dean of the ULM College of Business and Social Sciences. “A special thank you goes to the dedicated students and faculty for their hard work in preparing
such great business plans, and to the generous supporters whose contributions help bring this inspiring competition to life,” she added.
About The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup
Now in its fourth year, The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup was founded by distinguished ULM alumnus Dhu Thompson. Thompson is the founder, past owner, and former chairman of the board for Delta Plastics, producer of agricultural irrigation tubing, and the largest recycler of plastics in Arkansas. He is also the former owner and past chairman of the board for Revolution Bag that manufactures EPAcompliant trashcan liners. Thompson’s honors include 2004 Arkansas Business Executive of the Year and SBA Person of the Year. In 2019 he sold the Revolution brands to a New York private equity firm and now focuses on entrepreneurship growth in Arkansas and Louisiana. In 2024, Mr. Thompson was inducted into the prestigious Arkansas Business Hall of Fame.
A Sweet Evolution:
The History of Chocolate Chip Pound Cake
THE CHOCOLATE CHIP POUND CAKE IS A BELOVED dessert that brings together two iconic treats: the pound cake and chocolate chips. This delightful confection has a rich history, marked by the evolution of baking techniques and the blending of flavors that have captivated sweet tooths for generations.
The origins of the pound cake can be traced back to Europe in the early 18th century. The traditional pound cake recipe was simple and practical, calling for a pound each of four ingredients: flour, butter, eggs, and sugar. This straightforward formula not only made the recipe easy to remember but also ensured a dense, rich cake that could be stored for extended periods without refrigeration. The cake’s durability and richness made it a staple in households across Europe.
As the pound cake made its way to America, it underwent numerous adaptations. Bakers began experimenting with the basic recipe, adding ingredients like vanilla, nutmeg, and lemon zest to enhance the flavor. By the mid-19th century, pound cakes had become a fixture in American baking, celebrated for their versatility and comforting taste.
The introduction of chocolate chips to the pound cake is a relatively recent innovation, reflecting broader trends in the baking industry. Chocolate chips themselves were invented by Ruth Graves Wakefield in the 1930s. Wakefield, who owned the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts, stumbled upon the idea when she added chopped bits of a Nestlé semi-sweet chocolate bar to a batch of cookies. The resulting Toll House cookies were an instant hit, leading to the commercial production of chocolate chips by Nestlé.
The marriage of chocolate chips and pound cake likely began in American kitchens during the mid-20th century. As home baking became increasingly popular, particularly in the post-World War II era, bakers sought new ways to innovate classic recipes. Adding chocolate chips to pound cake provided a delightful twist, combining the dense, buttery texture of the cake with the rich, sweet bursts of chocolate.
The chocolate chip pound cake’s popularity surged in the latter half of the 20th century, aided by the availability of pre-packaged chocolate chips and the rise of convenience baking. It became a favored dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, and holidays, cherished for its comforting familiarity and indulgent flavor.
Today, the chocolate chip pound cake continues to evolve, with bakers experimenting with various ingredients and techniques. Some recipes incorporate sour cream or yogurt to add moisture and tang, while others might include nuts or a hint of coffee to complement the chocolate. Despite these variations, the core appeal of the chocolate chip pound cake remains the same: a harmonious blend of rich, buttery cake and decadent chocolate.
The chocolate chip pound cake is a testament to the enduring appeal of combining classic flavors with innovative twists. Its history is a sweet journey from the simple pound cake of 18th-century Europe to the beloved chocolate-infused treat enjoyed by countless dessert lovers today. Whether served at a casual family dinner or a festive celebration, the chocolate chip pound cake continues to bring joy and satisfaction to those who savor its delicious legacy.
HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL
These looks from area boutiques capture the essence of the season with breezy floral dresses, playful striped tops, and artisanal hand-drawn tees. Raffia sandals and stylish pumps add the perfect finishing touch, blending effortless style with warm-weather charm.
HEMLINE MONROE
This enchanting midi dress features a delicate spring floral print in lilac that captures the season’s vibrant spirit. Accessorize with a raffia flap purse with chain link strap, twoband sandal with buckle detail, and 18K gold plated hoops that are detailed with a cluster of mother of pearl sequins.
Hair and Makeup: Meka Bennett Reliford
Model: Ashley Greer
Photography by Kelly Moore Clark
Thanks to Masur Museum of Art
PALETTE HOUSE
This green stripe button-down shirt has ruffle detailing at the sleeve and cuff. It features a relaxed, classic fit and contrast collar band in pink and deep green. Pair it with relaxed, wide leg jeans in white.
HERRINGSTONES
Featuring a delicate floral print, this midi dress embraces a flowy silhouette that moves gracefully with you. Thoughtful details like subtle ruffles, a flattering neckline, and a cinched waist enhance its feminine charm. Pair it with mesh slingback heels, bracelets, a gold statement necklace and a bamboo handle purse.
DUSTY & COMPANY
This bold graphic floral top exudes femininity with its vibrant design, making it the perfect statement piece for a fresh and stylish spring look. Wear it with these sky blue jeans from Judy Blue that feature a distressed cropped hem. Finish the look with retro-inspired ivory and taupe sneakers, Van Cleef-inspired earrings and rhinestone bracelets.
MATERIAL THINGS
This stripe and color coordinated gingham dress is perfect for warmer weather. With a smooth finish and timeless appeal, this dress is effortlessly paired with tortoiseshell glasses, and gold loop earrings.
LILBURN’S BOUTIQUE
Ashley looks stunning in this beautiful blue water lily dress with pleated bust and lined pockets. This short sleeve midi dress also features a tied waist and buttons along the front. The timeless appeal is carried throughout by accessorizing with a raffia slide that features a gold link.
KIM LOLLEY DESIGNS
This stunning floor-length A-line dress is designed for timeless grace and versatile wear. Featuring delicate pearl button closures, pleats for elegant movement, and a detachable belt for customizable styling, this dress combines sophistication with comfort. The mint floral print brings a touch of vintage charm, symbolizing renewal and fresh beginnings.
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MR. P’S TEES
This Happy Little Cypress Trees from Mr. P’s Tees is printed on a soft pale kelly green tee and features
likeness of Bob Ross painting a canvas with cypress trees. This design is also available in pink.
Calendar of Events
For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com
February 21 - May 3
62nd Annual Juried Competition
Stop by and see the Masur Museum of Art’s longest running tradition!
Cost: Free
Venue: Masur Museum of Art, 1400 South Grand Street, Monroe Phone: (318) 329-2237
March 13 - April 12
Northern Exposure Shop Hop
Visit various quilt shops in the area to be eligible for prizes.
Cost: $10 per “passport”
Venue: Various area quilt shops Phone: (318) 547-7715
April 1, 4-6, 11-13, 15, 25- 27, 29
ULM Baseball
Come out and support your Warhawk baseball team as they compete at their home games!
Hours: Game times vary
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Lou St. Amant Field, 518 Warhawk Way, Monroe Phone: (318) 342-3592
April 2, 17-19, 22
ULM Softball
Come out and support your Warhawk softball team as they compete at their home games!
Hours: Game times vary
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: ULM Softball Field, 308 Warhawk Way, Monroe Phone: (318) 342-1000
April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Karaoke Wednesday at Enoch’s Join Enoch’s and 318 Swampers for a fun night with friends!
Hours: 8pm - 11pm
Venue: Enoch’s Irish Pub & Cafe, 507 Louisville Avenue, Monroe Phone: (318) 388-3662
April 3-6
RCT Presents: Southern Hospitality
The small town of Fayro, TX is dwindling and threatening to become extinct! The Futrelle sisters are determined to save their home town through whatever antics it takes.
Hours: Thursday-Saturday 7pm, Sunday 2pm, Cost: Adult $20, Student $10 Venue: Dixie Center for the Arts, 212 N. Vienna St., Ruston Phone: (318) 255-1450
April 3
RFM: Bagel Boss
Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers
Market Teaching Kitchen featuring local Bagel Boss.
Hours: 6-8pm
Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org
Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave., Ruston Phone: (318) 57-1305
Downtown Gallery Crawl
Head to Downtown Monroe and West
Monroe for an evening of food, art, music, and fun.
Hours: 5pm - 9pm, Cost: Free Venue: Downtown Monroe and West Monroe Phone: (318) 512-2131
Monroe Moccasins vs. Columbus River Dragons
Catch an exciting hockey game as the Moccasins take on the River Dragons!
Hours: 7pm - 10pm
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Phone: (318) 329-2225
April 4-5, 18-19
GSU Softball
Get ready to cheer on the Lady Tigers as they compete in these exciting basketball games!
Hours: Varying times
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center, 100 N. Stadium Dr. Grambling, LA Phone: (318) 274-3811
April 4-19
Photos with the Bunny
Catch the Easter Bunny for a photo before he hops away!
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Pecanland Mall, 4700 Millhaven Road, Monroe Phone: (318) 322-4794
April 4-6, 8, 25-27
LA Tech Softball
Cheer on the Bulldogs as they compete in these exciting softball games!
Hours: Varying times
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Dr. Billy Bundrick Field, 920 Tech Dr., Ruston Phone: (318) 257-3631
April 4-6
NXTPro Hoops Travel Tournament
Catch these exciting travel basketball games at West Monroe Sports & Events. Venue: West Monroe Sports & Events, 875 Constitution Drive West Monroe, LA Phone: (210) 214-2491
April 4-6, 9, 23, 25-27, 29-30
LA Tech Baseball
Cheer on the Bulldogs as they compete in these baseball series at The Love Shack!
Hours: Varying times
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: J.C. Love Field, 1650 W Alabama Ave. Ruston, LA 71270
Phone: 318-257-3631
April 4
Out to Lunch at The Biedenharn
Grab a lunch date and head to the Biedenharn for a delicious meal!
Hours: 11am - 2pm, Cost: $5
Venue: Biedenharn Museum & Gardens, 2006 Riverside Drive, Monroe Phone: (318) 387-5281
13th Annual Wesley Golf Tournament
Join in on the golf fun with the ULM Wesley Foundation!
Hours: 1pm - 6pm
Cost: $400/4-person team
Venue: Frenchman’s Bend Golf Course, 1484 Frenchman’s Bend Drive, Monroe Phone: (318) 343-2944
Creative Convos
Hang out with imaginative people and discuss the art world at this monthly meeting.
Hours: 7pm - 10pm, Cost: Free Venue: The Sugar Gallery, 135 Art Alley Monroe, LA
April 5, 12, 19, 26
Ruston Farmers Market
Enjoy local produce and handmade products at this farmers market downtown.
Hours: 9am-1pm
Venue: 220 E Mississippi Ave., Ruston Phone: (318) 957-1305
April 5
2025 Louisiana State Games Disc Golf
With multiple divisions available, this event will take place at the Blue & Green Course at Chennault Park.
Venue: Chennault Park Golf Course, 8475 Millhaven Road, Monroe Phone: (318) 805-6289
2025 Louisiana State Games Volleyball Tournament
Don’t miss this exciting competition at the ULM Activity Center.
Venue: ULM Activity Center, 210 Warhawk Way, Monroe Phone: (318) 376-3001
MAD Dash 5K
Make a difference in the lives of cancer patients all across NELA.
Hours: 7am - 11am, Cost: $35
Venue: ULM The Grove, 514 Warhawk Way Monroe, LA Phone: (318) 966-1900
Warhawk Harley-Davidson’s Annual Project 4 Hope O.R.V.A. Ride
Join Warhawk Harley-Davidson for their
deviled-egg cookoff and Annual O.R.V.A. Ride!
Hours: 9am - 3pm, Cost: Free
Venue: Warhawk Harley-Davidson, 6200 Frontage Road, Monroe Phone: (318) 343-1650
Walk Around the Block for Autism
This community event celebrates adults and children with disabilities and special needs.
Hours: 9am - 12pm
Cost: 12 and under: $11, 13 and up: $25
Venue: Northeast Louisiana State Office Building, 122 St. John Street, Monroe Phone: (318) 323-2141
Easter Egg Hunt at Calhoun Spring Fling
Head to Calhoun Middle School for a community Spring Fling.
Hours: 10:30am - 11:30am, Cost: Free Venue: Calhoun Middle School, 191 US-80 Calhoun, LA Phone: (318) 322-5104
Dueling Pianos with Queen Anne’s Revenge
Get ready for another high-energy event of music and fun!
Hours: Brunch: 11am - 2pm, Night: 7pm - 10pm
Cost: General admission: $15, VIP table (4 tickets + reserved table): $75
Venue: Flying Heart Brewing & Pub, 204 Commerce Street, West Monroe Phone: (318) 469-5642
Krewe of Janus After-Parade BBQ
Stop by and get to know the Krewe of Janus at their annual barbeque!
Hours: 3pm - 7pm
Venue: Krewe of Janus Float Den, 901 Louisville Avenue, Monroe Phone: (318) 348-3237
Landry Vineyards Concert – Clara Rae & The Ramblers
Spend your afternoon listening to live music and enjoying food and Landry’s wine!
Hours: 4pm - 7:30pm
Cost: Adults: $10, Young adults (13-18): $5, 12 and under: Free Venue: Landry Vineyards, 5699 New Natchitoches Road, West Monroe71292 Phone: (318) 557-9050
Lover: An Eras Tour Experience
Head to Sterlington Sports Complex for a recreation of the iconic Eras Tour.
Hours: 7pm - 10pm, Cost: $30
Venue: Sterlington Sports Complex, 1290 LA-136, Sterlington Phone: (318) 366-4166
April 6
Sensory Bunny
The Easter Bunny will be in the mall before it opens to provide a peaceful photo session.
Hours: 10am - 11am
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Pecanland Mall, 4700 Millhaven
Road, Monroe
Phone: (318) 322-4794
Super Saturday in the Garden
Join the Children’s Coalition for a morning of family fun!
Hours: 10am - 12pm
Venue: Origin Family Bank Garden, 117 Hall Street, Monroe Phone: (318) 323-8775
Grill, Chill, & Fill
Join the Krewe de Riviere for a familyfriendly open house.
Hours: 2pm - 4pm, Cost: Free Venue: Krewe de Riviere Float Den, 2519 South Grand Street, Monroe
April 7, 14, 21, 28
Creative Meetups
Gather with fellow artists to share ideas, techniques, and stories as you create art.
Hours: 6pm-9pm, Cost: Free Venue: Creatives at Work, 112 W Alabama Ave., Ruston Phone: 318-202-3202
April 7, 14
Pet Photos with the Bunny
The Easter Bunny carved out some special time for some pet photos at the mall!
Hours: 5pm - 7pm, Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Pecanland Mall, 4700 Millhaven Road, Monroe Phone: (318) 322-4794
April 8, 17-19, 29
GSU Baseball
Get ready to cheer on the GSU Tigers as they compete in these exciting baseball series!
Hours: Varying times
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Wilbert Ellis Field at R.W.E. Jones Park, Grambling Phone: 318-274-3811
April 9-19
Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum Easter Village
The Children’s Museum will be offering Easter and springtime events during this special week!
Cost: $12, $18 for special events
Venue: Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum, 323 Walnut Street, Monroe Phone: (318) 361-9611
April 10-12
Fore the Warhawks Weekend
Mark your calendars for this weekend packed with football, golf, and Tracy Lawrence!
Hours: April 10 6pm - 10pm, April 11 11am - 4pm, April 12 6:30pm - 10pm
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Fant-Ewing Coliseum, 4099 Northeast Drive; Malone Stadium, 514 Warhawk Way, Monroe Phone: (205) 300-1145
April 10
RFM: Mi Casa
Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen featuring Mi Casa and their authentic cuisine.
Hours: 6-8pm
Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org
Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave., Ruston Phone: (318) 957-1305
April 11
Greek Alumni Happy Hour
The ULM Alumni Association presents a special night of drinks and treats for former Warhawks.
Cost: Free with purchase of Step-Show ticket
Venue: Fant-Ewing Coliseum, 4099 Northeast Drive, Monroe Phone: (318) 342-5420
April 11-13
2D Super Select NIT Baseball Tournament 2D will be hosting their Super Select Tournament in North Louisiana the 11th and 12th.
Cost: $12/day, $7 senior or military, 10 and under Free
Venue: Sterlington Sports Complex, 1290 LA-136; ULM University Park, 4709 Bon Aire Drive, Monroe and Sterlington, LA Phone: (318) 639-7303
April 11-13
Big Creek Trade Days
Enjoy this shopping venue with a variety of local vendors, food, and live music
Hours: Friday and Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 10am-4pm, Cost: $5 per car
Venue: 327 California Plant Rd., Dubach, Phone: 318-680-1304
April 11
Wild Wild West at Alley Park
Grab your boots and cowboy hat and join Downtown West Monroe for a western dance event!
Hours: 6pm - 9pm
Cost: General admission: $50, Reserved table (8 tickets): $500
Venue: Alley Park, 250 Trenton Street West Monroe Phone: (318) 325-1961
16th Annual Off The Wall
Get ready for the Masur Museum’s 16th
Annual Off The Wall fundraiser!
Hours: 6pm - 9pm
Cost: $50
Venue: Masur Museum of Art, 1400 South Grand Street, Monroe
Phone: (318) 329-2237
Peanut Butter & Jellybean Dinner Theatre
Grab your family and friends for a fun, kidfriendly meal and performance!
Hours: 6pm - 8pm, Cost: $18
Venue: Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum, 323 Walnut Drive, Monroe
Phone: (318) 361-9611
Maximalist Mirror and Frame Workshop
Here’s your chance to personalize your very own maximalist decor!
Hours: 6pm - 8pm
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: The Good Daze, 111 Art Alley
Monroe
Phone: (318) 732-9248
Monroe Moccasins vs. Carolina Thunderbirds
Catch an exciting hockey game as the Moccasins take on the Thunderbirds!
Hours: 7pm - 10pm
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe
Phone: (318) 329-2225
April 12
2025 Bayous & Bluffs Race
Join Louisiana Delta Adventures for their Bayous & Bluffs Race starting at 9am.
Venue: Logtown Boat Ramp, 500-668 Logtown School Road, Monroe
MotoXtreme Circus
Get ready for a high-energy and adrenaline-pumping show!
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Ike Hamilton Expo Center, 501 Mane Street, West Monroe
Phone: (318) 325-9160
Bunny & Me Breakfast
The Easter Bunny will be hopping into the Children’s Museum for a fun interactive breakfast!
Hours: 9am - 10:30am, Cost: $18
Venue: Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum, 323 Walnut Street, Monroe Phone: (318) 361-9611
S&J’s Spring Craft and Farmer’s Market Shop through fresh farm goods and vendor crafts.
Hours: 9am - 3pm, Cost: Free Venue: S&J Farm and Feed, 250 Washington Street, West Monroe Phone: (318) 388-5858
Spring Herb Faire
Join Junkin Sistas and the Ouachita Herb Society for their Spring Herb Faire!
Hours: 9am - 3pm, Cost: Free Venue: Junkin Sistas, 736 Ray Road Calhoun
Phone: (318) 816-8675
Dragon Boat Festival 2025
Get ready to watch 20 team members row to the beat of a drum!
Hours: 9am - 4pm
Venue: University of Louisiana at Monroe, 700 University Avenue, Monroe Phone: (318) 323-8775
Children’s Fun Days at Biedenharn Museum & Gardens
Grab your kids and head to The Biedenharn for a fun-filled Saturday in the gardens!
Hours: 10am - 12pm
Cost: $5/child, Free adult entry
Venue: Biedenharn Museum & Gardens, 2006 Riverside Drive, Monroe
Phone: (318) 387-5281
Joe Woods Wildwood Express
This event is fun for all ages! Dust off your toe-tapping shoes and get ready for an old-fashioned country variety show at the Historic Dixie Theater.
Hours: 6pm, Cost: Reserved Seating $25, Day of Show $30
Venue: Dixie Center for the Arts, 212 N. Vienna St., Ruston Phone: (318) 255-1450
Saturday Family Fiesta
The Region 8 Community Outreach team is hosting a family fun day every 2nd Saturday.
Hours: 10am - 12:30pm
Venue: Harvey Benoit Recreation Center, 1700 Woodlawn Street, Monroe Phone: (318) 570-5400
Spring Sip & Shop
Browse through Thirsty Farmer wines and store along with 20 other area vendors!
Hours: 11am - 7pm
Venue: Thirsty Farmer, 531 State Highway 144, Calhoun Phone: (318) 599-0076
Warhawk Harley-Davidson Painted Egg Challenge
Free lunch will be provided, and an adult and child winner will be given a surprise.
Hours: 12pm - 2pm, Cost: Free Venue: Warhawk Harley-Davidson, 6200 Frontage Road, Monroe Phone: (318) 343-1650
VAMN! Visual Artist Meetup
Bring a work in progress and discuss art with like minds.
Hours: 12pm - 2pm, Cost: Free Venue: Downtown Monroe, 131 Art Alley Monroe
2nd Annual “Hello Spring” at The Legacy Don’t miss out on this fun outdoor family event to kick off spring!
Hours: 12pm - 3pm, Cost: Free Venue: The Legacy, 1900 Garrett Road Monroe Phone: (318) 600-5744
April 12, 26
Vineyard & Winery Tour at Landry Vineyards
Learn all about the wine-making process at Landry Vineyards!
Hours: 2pm - 3:30pm, Cost: $25
Venue: Landry Vineyards, 5699 New Natchitoches Road, West Monroe Phone: (318) 557-9050
April 12
Danny Gokey: The Sound of Heaven Tour Don’t miss The Sound of Heaven Tour this spring.
Hours: 6pm - 8pm, Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: First West, 311 Mill Street West Monroe Phone: (318) 322-5104
April 14-16
Oil Painting Workshop ft. Guido Frick
The renowned international artist will be in Monroe to teach oil-painting techniques.
Hours: 9am - 4pm
Cost: $560 with $280 deposit
Venue: The Anapolé Gallery, 133 Art Alley Monroe Phone: (318) 805-2242
April 14
Kids Art Club
Brandon Virgil, Sr. will host this art meetup on the second Monday of every month.
Hours: 5pm - 6:30pm, Cost: Free Venue: Downtown Monroe, 131 Art Alley
April 16
Fiber Artist Meetup
Connect and create with other artists at this monthly meetup.
Hours: 5:30pm - 8pm, Cost: Free Venue: Downtown Monroe, 131 Art Alley Phone: (318) 329-2200
April 17
RFM: Mindful Eating
Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen that will teach out about mindful eating habits.
Hours: 6-8pm
Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org
Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave., Ruston Phone: (318) 957-1305
April 18
Open Mic at the Sugar Gallery
Join the Black Creatives Circle for a night highlighting free speech at this creative space.
Hours: 6pm - 10pm, Cost: Free Venue: The Sugar Gallery, 135 Art Alley
April 19
TBF Pickleball Tournament
Join the Tarver Braddock Foundation for a fun day of pickleball!
Hours: 8am - 11pm
Venue: Monroe Athletic Club, 3801 Chauvin Lane, Monroe Phone: (318) 355-9047
Tour of Layton Castle
Explore Layton Castle and learn about how it evolved from creole cottage to a castle.
Hours: 10am - 11am, Cost: $18
Venue: Layton Castle, 1133 South Grand Street, Monroe Phone: (435) 691-3271
Community Easter Egg Hunt
Hunt for 10,000 candy eggs and prize eggs at this spring event.
Hours: 10am - 12pm, Cost: Free Venue: Calhoun Middle School, 191 Highway 80 E Calhoun Phone: (318) 644-5101
Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo’s Eggstravaganza
Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo is excited to host their Eggstravaganza egg
hunt!
Hours: 10am - 2pm
Venue: Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo, 1405 Bernstein Park Road, Monroe Phone: (318) 329-2400
Rides on the River 2025
This nonprofit car show benefits a local St. Jude patient!
Hours: 10am - 4pm
Cost: $10 vehicle-show fee, Free to spectators
Venue: Forsythe Boat Ramp, 2201 RIverside Drive, Monroe Phone: (318) 884-9340
Warhawk Harley-Davidson Easter Egg Hunt
Free lunch will be provided, and the winner of the most eggs gets a surprise.
Hours: 10am - 12pm, Cost: Free Venue: Warhawk Harley-Davidson, 6200 Frontage Road, Monroe Phone: (318) 343-1650
It’s Lit! Literary Artist Meetup
Join the Black Creatives Circle for their monthly meetup of local and regional writers.
Hours: 12pm - 2pm, Cost: Free Venue: The Sugar Gallery, 135 Art Alley Monroe
April 19
Black Water Brake Live at the VFW
Enjoy some food and live music at the VFW.
Hours: 7pm - 11pm, Cost: $10
Venue: Monroe VFW, 1499 Highway 594
Monroe
Phone: (318) 345-4185
April 24-27
Ouachita RiverFest
Bring your friends and family for this fun festival in Downtown West Monroe!
Venue: Trenton Street, Downtown West Monroe Phone: (318) 396-2600
April 24-27
Grease
Enjoy the spirit of the ‘50s with this musical by Strauss Theatre Center!
Hours: Thursday-Saturday: 7pm, Sundays: 2pm, Cost: Ticket prices vary
Venue: Strauss Theatre Center, 1300 ½ Lamy Lane Monroe, LA 71201
Phone: (318) 323-6681
April 24
RFM: Ruston on the Vine
Enjoy this Night market as well as a Teaching Kitchen class featuring wine tastings.
Hours: 6-8pm
Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org
Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA 71270
Phone: (318) 957-1305
Symposium Speaker Reception
Join Biedenharn Museum & Gardens in
welcoming their 2025 Garden Symposium speaker!
Hours: 5pm - 7pm, Cost: $25
Venue: Biedenharn Museum & Gardens, 2006 Riverside Drive, Monroe Phone: (318) 387-5281
Wine Over Water
Enjoy food sampling, live entertainment, wine and beer tastings, and much more!
Hours: 7pm - 10pm
Cost: $70 Bridge ticket, $150 Patron party ticket
Venue: University of Louisiana at Monroe, 700 University Drive, Monroe Phone: (318) 342-5420
April 25-27
NXTPro Hoops Travel Tournament 2 Catch this travel basketball tournament at West Monroe Sports & Events.
Venue: West Monroe Sports & Events, 875 Constitution Drive, West Monroe
Phone: (210) 214-2491
April 25-26
Friends of the Library Book Sale Shop for books, DVDs, and CDs at extreme discounts.
Hours: 9am - 3pm
Venue: Ouachita Parish Public LibraryWest Ouachita Branch, 188 Cheniere Drew Road, West Monroe
Phone: (318) 327-1490
April 25
Biedenharn’s 2025 Garden Symposium
Join Biedenharn Museum & Gardens for a day full of food, coffee, and gardening knowledge!
Hours: 9am - 3pm, Cost: $75
Venue: Biedenharn Museum & Gardens, 2006 Riverside Drive Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: (318) 387-5281
Mrs. Roper Romp
Join in on the fun that has been sweeping the nation!
Hours: 4pm - 9pm
Venue: Trenton Street, Downtown West Monroe
Phone: (318) 396-2600
Ouachita Live
Head to Downtown West Monroe for a free live concert!
Hours: 7pm - 9pm, Cost: Free Venue: Alley Park, 250 Trenton Street West Monroe
Phone: (318) 396-2600
April 26
FerVent: The Event
Join NY Times Bestselling Author Priscilla Shirer for an all-day worship conference.
Cost: Ticket Prices Vary
Venue: North Monroe Baptist Church, 210 Finks Hideaway Road, Monroe
Phone: (318) 343-4730
LA Tech Football Spring Game
Get ready for an exciting season with the LA Tech Bulldogs with the classic Spring
Game.
Cost: Varies - latechsports.com
Venue: Joe Aillet Stadium, 1450 W Alabama Ave., Ruston
318 Youth Triathlon
Enjoy some healthy competition at The Wellness Center.
Hours: 8am - 11am, Cost: $30
Venue: The Wellness Center, 3215 Cypress Street, West Monroe Phone: (318) 329-9100
Biedenharn’s Public Plant Sale
This public plant sale is a free event and open to the public.
Hours: 8:30am - 1pm, Cost: Free Venue: Biedenharn Museum & Gardens, 2006 Riverside Drive, Monroe Phone: (318) 387-5281
Lagniappe Saturday – Clay LaBeff
Celebrate a beautiful afternoon with food and a free concert!
Hours: 3pm - 6:30pm, Cost: Free Venue: Landry Vineyards, 5699 New Natchitoches Road, West Monroe Phone: (318) 557-9050
Jesse Dale Middleton Band Live at the VFW
Enjoy some live music and food at the Monroe VFW.
Hours: 7pm - 11pm, Cost: $10
Venue: Monroe VFW, 1499 Highway 594 Monroe Phone: (318) 345-4185
April 28 - May 2
2025 LHSAA Tennis State Championship
This tournament will be at the Forsythe Tennis Courts and the ULM Tennis Courts. Venue: Forsythe Park Tennis Courts, 2300 Sycamore Street; ULM Tennis Courts, 331 Warhawk Way, Monroe Phone: (318) 512-2894
