BayouLife Magazine February 2018

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FEBRUARY 2018

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28 / FOR THE LOVE OF MUSIC Local Band Astro Motel Has Crafted an Electrifying Body of Work 44 / A LIFETIME FILLED WITH LOVE These Four Couples Show That While Marriage is Never Easy, It’s More Than Worth It. 72 / THE BUTTER HALF Charity Jones Shares Her “Love Language” with Her New Bakery, Butter 88 / FLORAL NOTES From Flirty Florals to Luxe Velvets, These Outfits Are Perfect for Romantic Rendezvous

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94 / MISE EN PLACE MEDITERRANEAN: REVIVAL OF THE FITTEST The Home of Gregory Hudgins 104/ PAINTING HER PASSION Our Bayou Artist Bunny Hewitt Paints Images That Inspire Her in the Moment 118/ THE TANGIBLE HISTORY OF WONDERFUL THINGS Cheryl and Will Sutton Have Left Their Mark on Generations of Young Artists, Professionals and Communities

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134/ GIVING TO LIVING Northern Louisiana Families Who Have Been Impacted by the Work at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital

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BayouLife

EBRUARY IS A TIME TO

honor those we love, recognize the central role of African-Americans in U.S. history and gather together to celebrate Mardi Gras and prepare for the Lenten season. It’s a month that the Livingston househould celebrates in a big way – my oldest daughter turns six, my baby will be four, and my mother will turn sixtysomething! It’s a party all month long for our family.

Four years ago, I was diagnosed with Celiac disease. I had no idea what that meant or how my life would change. One fateful afternoon, Dr. Gary Jones called me into his office and spent a couple of hours talking to me about living with this autoimmune disorder. I can say that living gluten-free has come a long way – even in the last five years. And with people like Charity Jones at the helm of gluten-free baking, I no longer have to long for cakes or muffins that don’t taste like cardboard.

Together with her husband, Adam, these two have opened Butter Bakery.

I have long been a patron of Charity’s – indulging in GF king cakes, Valentine’s eclairs and birthday cakes, but now I can grab-and-go from her mouth-watering, pastry filled cases any time I crave one of her sinful sweets. Read her story on page 72.

There’s nothing more pleasing to the soul than hearing or reading a good love story. In this month’s issue, we talk to four couples who walk us through their lives together. From humble beginnings, they all excelled in their personal lives, building legacies they’re proud of.

These couples show that while marriage is never easy, it’s more than worth it.

Read Meredith McKinnie and Michael DeVault’s interviews with Alpha and John Spence, W.A. and Schump Jones, JoAnn and Glenn Brunson and Kathi and Terry Barnhill on page 44.

He grew up in New Orleans, she grew up in Washington, D.C. Their life has been filled with beautifuyl works – of art and of service. Through diverse careers in art, journalism, higher education and ministering the Gospel, Cheryl and Will Sutton have left their mark on generations of young artists, professionals and communities. See our BayouIcons story on page 118.

We were approached by St. Jude’s to share the stories of local families that had been touched by this amazing hospital.

While our prayers are that no family would ever have the need for St. Jude’s services, we are grateful that these five families have all been blessed by the

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1201 Royal Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 Phone 318.855.3185 Fax 318.855.4645

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ministries at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. I want to say a special “thank you” to our photographers who donated their time and resources to capture the joy in these families. Brice Jones Photography, Staci Albritton at Albritton Photography, Angela Groce at Unveiled Radiance Photography and Martin G. Meyers. Also, thanks to Steven Myers, Annie Barnett and Molly Hill. Read their stories on page 134.

I’ve been a fan of Gregory Hudgins for a long time – you can usually spot his interior design or flower arrangments throughout the magazine, and this month is no exception. When we learned that Gregory was almost finished decorating his new home, we couldn’t wait to see the interior. He has a flair for mixing the old with the new, finding fabulous art and using unique textiles in his designs.

His home is a showcase to his talents.

Recently, Maré Brennan sat down with Gregory to discuss his personal design venture on page 142.

This month’s fashion shoot was small, but mighty. Over fifty flowers were handcrafted by our team at BayouLife Magazine.

The backdrop was beautiful and couldn’t have been done without the design genius of Melanie Moffett, Katie Sloan, Caroline Raymond and Bailey Lemoine. See it on page 88.

We hope you that you have a great Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras and that you enjoy reading this issue of BayouLife Magazine. We are your only locally-owned, home delivered publication in North Louisiana. Thank you for your continued support of local businesses. Buy local!

PUBLISHER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com EDITOR Maré Brennan mare@bayoulifemag.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Moffett melanie@bayoulifemag.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Katie Sloan katie@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Ashley Hubenthal ashley@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Ali Beasley ali@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Amanda Singley amanda@bayoulifemag.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dan Chason Kenny Covington Lou Davenport Michael DeVault Cindy Gist Foust Lori French Denise Hardy Andi Holyfield April Honaker Eva Horne Paul Lipe Erin Sharplin Love Justin Mahiles Meredith McKinnie

Dr. Timothy Mickel Guy Miller Melanie Moffett Mary Napoli Kay Stothart Rector Vanelis Rivera Cathi French Roberts Delia Simpson P. Allen Smith Brittany Soto Beatrice A. Tatem Analeise Thomas Judy Wagoner Kasey Witherington

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Kelly Moore Clark Scarlett Garcia Martin G. Meyers

Cassie ON THE COVER Alpha and John Spence celebrate a lifetime of love.

Photography by Martin G Meyers BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Circulation: 13,000 copies monthly. Postal subscriptions ($30) can be ordered online at www.bayoulifemag. com. BayouLife Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts or other materials. Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited.

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Washington Wine and Spirits Second Annual Winter Whiskey Event to be Held February 8th

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REETINGS FROM ALL OF US HERE AT WASHINGTON Wine and Spirits. This month we are going to talk to you about one of our favorite things in the world, Whiskey!

On that note, we are proud to announce our 2nd Annual Winter Whiskey Event on February 8th from 4:30-7:00. This will be the premier whiskey event in North Louisiana and quite possibly the state! There will be a $20 charge, and you must be at least 21 years of age with a valid ID to enter and taste. This will be an event that you will not want to miss, as we will be sampling around 60 different whiskies, including almost half of the whiskies on Whisky Advocate’s Top 20 List of 2017!

We aren’t going to reveal all of the whiskies being sampled in this article, you will have to check the Washington Wine and Spirits Facebook page and YouTube channel for our official unveiling for that, but we will give you a few teasers of the distributors and a whiskey from their portfolio that will be sampled to get you excited!

Our first reveal will be the Stranahan’s Diamond Peak with Republic. This has been a shop favorite, since the day we opened. It is a single malt whiskey that is hand selected by master distiller Rob Dietrich from some of their most distinct, choice casks. It is aged in #3 char new white American oak barrels and has notes of dried stone fruits, caramel, freshly sawed wood, espresso, spicy chocolate and seasoned oak.

Next up, we have Old Bardstown Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey from Wines Unlimited. Old Bardstown has an intense aroma of sherry, mint, eucalyptus and copper with notes of nutmeg, caramel, tobacco and chewy leather that dominate the palate. The bourbon earned a score of 95 points from Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible, and the Silver Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2012.

After that, we have Burning Chair, brought to you by Neat Wines. This is the highly anticipated first release of world renowned winemaker Dave Phinney’s four year old Bourbon. Each barrel is hand-selected for its unique attributes by Dave. The youngest Bourbon in the blend is four years old, and each barrel brings something special to the final blend. The Bourbon is finished in wine barrels from Dave’s Napa Valley Cabernet projects.

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Our fourth reveal is a Japanese Whiskey from International called Nikka Coffey Malt. The originality of this 100% malt expression lies in its unique distillation method. Malted barley is distilled in a “Coffey still,” a traditional continuous still, which is normally used to produce grain whisky. Discover this whisky’s extraordinary texture, which Nikka has specially developed for whisky aficionados.

Lastly, we are going to reveal four whiskies from the four divisions of Southern Glazers. First up, we have the Hennessy Master Blender’s Selection No. 2. This is the second in a series, the result of a passion project initiated by former Hennessy Master Blender Yann Fillioux and is one of our favorite cognacs we have ever tasted. Next, we are sampling Pikesville Rye. This brand reemerged after Prohibition and became the last standing Maryland Rye, now produced in Kentucky from extra-aged barrels stored in prime warehouse locations, Heaven Hill keeps this historic whiskey alive with this award-winning six year old, 110 proof offering. The third whiskey is Booker’s. This whiskey is uncut, unfiltered, bottled at barrel strength and packs a punch. They don’t add, they don’t water down, and they don’t apologize for it! Last of all, we have the 1792 Full Proof. This bold bourbon boasts a deep, smoky taste balanced perfectly with note of sweet vanilla and caramel.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT OUR DOE’S EAT PLACE STEAKS! 6 oz Filet - $9.75 10 oz Filet - $16.24 14 oz Bone-In Filet - $39.99 1.5 lb Bone In Strip - $20.99 20 oz Ribeye - $21.24 2 lb Bone In Ribeye - $35.98 1.5 lb T-Bone - $20.99 2 lb T-Bone - $27.98 2.5 lb Porterhouse - $39.98 3 lb Porterhouse - $47.97 2-5 lb Sirloin - $9.99/lb

Thank you for shopping with us here at Washington Wine & Spirits!

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Alumni Spotlight ULM Alumnus: Curtis Eberts

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URTIS EBERTS FOUND HIS PLACE IN GIVING BACK TO those less fortunate. Born and raised in Monroe, Curtis attended Ouachita Christian School before enrolling in Northeast Louisiana University. He finished his bachelor’s from NLU and his master’s from ULM before being recruited to work at Pepperdine University in California. Curtis’s mother eventually retired from ULM, so it was never a consideration for him to go anywhere else. He was actively involved in campus ministry as a student. Curtis worked with Warhawks for Christ, where he learned leadership and adapted to public speaking.

Never one to seek the limelight, the ministry work forced Curtis out of his comfort zone. He had to deal with his insecurities and push himself.

This willingness to change and mold to his environment would serve Curtis well throughout his career.

College taught him discipline. He first had to ask himself, “How do I learn?” and then make adjustments. The first class he ever took was the summer after high school graduation. It was full of seniors needing to pass. Curtis remembers the professor walking in and all the students grumbling, insisting he was too hard and they would never pass. Curtis decided he would. Alongside his studies, he was active in intramural sports and started running triathlons on campus. One anatomy professor, Dr. Luke Thomas, was a big golfer, and Curtis had an internship at a local country club. On the course, the two would get to know one another outside the classroom, and Curtis appreciated the professor taking an interest in him and his studies. He served as a mentor over the years, one of the key components to student success.

After Pepperdine, Curtis was anxious to get back to Monroe and decided to take a job with a nonprofit back home. At Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Curtis ran public relations and volunteer recruitment, a huge career change for him. The volunteers were recruited to work with children in the foster care system. As the nonprofit started to grow, it started to provide more therapeutic/behavioral health type services. Curtis felt he needed more training and began his PhD at ULM in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). Since graduating in 2012, he has been running local nonprofit agencies geared toward youth and families who have behavioral health/mental health issues.

Curtis started Wraparound Services of Northeast Louisiana six years ago, and now has offices across the state and in Tennessee. It is a nationally recognized agency and, because of all of its growth, just launched a name change. Now Ascent Health will provide the same services as Wraparound, but with the addition of a new treatment

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program, biofeedback. It was started here in Monroe to help youth with ADHD, anxiety and depression. It’s a non-medicinal approach to helping youth manage the symptoms associated with those conditions, as well as sleep disorders and migraines. Since the services have extended beyond the local level, the name change was essential to the company’s national growth.

Curtis has learned in the last 15 years that there is a whole community of impoverished people in Northeast Louisiana. Children have lived through horrific experiences, some hard to imagine. Curtis admits he was, “very sheltered from that reality growing up.” This recognition began at CASA. He visited homes where foster children grew up and was amazed at what many of them had survived. Being faced with a hard reality like that, Curtis admits you have to, “completely cut yourself off from it or dive in head first, and it kind of becomes your life.” His life has been centered around, “the marginalized, the abused, the troubled folks that don’t really know where to turn.” He contends it is, “richly rewarding work, yet tiring. Not everyone is wired to do it, but I feel God has really graced me with the ability to not lose hope or be overwhelmed by it, but to also not be emotionally cut off from it either.”

Curtis is now able to manage and lead an organization that’s charged with doing something he believes in. He invests in his employees, building a workplace and a culture that supports that work, setting realistic expectations while still making sure, “employees feel supported, cared for, encouraged.” The office is like a sanctuary where employees can rejuvenate after fieldwork in often-harsh conditions. The company is noted nationally for not only its outstanding work, but also the work culture. The ULM MFT program was instrumental in shaping Curtis’s clinical philosophy. He “learned how to do good work with families.” It was very impressionable for Curtis, and now many of his co-workers are also enrolled in the same program at ULM. He trusts the school to provide good employees with the training and certification to excel. ULM has again served as a partner with one of its own to continue to support our community.

The ULM Alumni Association reaches, connects and celebrates alumni and friends to build lifelong relationships, and commit to the university’s missions of academic freedom, scholarship, diversity, excellence, integrity and service. We represent alumni who honor the traditions of our university and who share a sense of achievement and pride. We create a network of professionals, establish scholarships and advocate for our University through community engagement. Members of the Alumni Association support countless initiatives, and annual memberships are just $35. To learn more or to become a member, please visit our new alumni network at ulm.edu/alumni.

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Rosés and Chocolates Bubbly Beverage Ideas for Your Valentine

BY DELIA SIMPSON, CRAFT, SPECIALTY, AND IMPORT MANAGER, CHOICE BRANDS, INC.

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E ARE ALL AWARE OF THE time-honored tradition of champagne and chocolates and, of course, who can ignore the “Rosé All Day” shirts and mugs that have become so popular.

But did you know that there are now many alternatives to satisfy that craving for bubbles?

Check out this seemingly endless list of effervescent libations that will see you through Valentine’s Day and beyond.

Ciders have been making an impact for years now. As complex as wine but as drinkable as beer, the good ones have the added benefit of being gluten free and made from all-natural ingredients. They don’t get much better than the new Angry Orchard Rosé, which hits the shelves this month. This cider has a floral aroma, is apple forward in taste and complemented by refreshing light tannins, similar to a semi-dry wine. Made from red fleshed apples and hibiscus, this one is a game changer.

For the calorie and carb conscious, sparkling seltzer is truly a revelation. Truly Spiked and Sparkling slim cans will be available starting this month in Colima Lime, Wild Berry and a variety 12 pack which will include Colima Lime, Lemon and Yuzu, Blood Orange, and Grapefruit. Refreshing like sparkling water, but way more fun, these beauties clock in at 5% alcohol, 100 calories, and 2g carbs. They contain no artificial sweeteners, no artificial flavors and are naturally gluten free.

Lambic is a type of beer brewed in Belgium, which is fermented through exposure to wild yeasts. This process gives the beer its

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distinctive flavor which is dry, vinous and cidery, usually with a slightly tart aftertaste.

Lindeman’s has been brewing some of the finest examples of this style for generations.

Available locally in Framboise (raspberry), Kriek (cherry), and Strawberry, they can be enjoyed on their own or mixed with other beers or into cocktails. Their delicate fruity aroma and beautiful color are best enjoyed in a wine glass or flute. Keep it fancy!

There is a common misconception that stouts are for seasoned beer drinkers only.

This actually couldn’t be further from the truth. There are many qualities from roasted, chocolaty malts to notes of coffee and vanilla that appeal to many people that don’t typically like beer. Samuel Smith’s Organic Chocolate Stout is just one example. Brewed with well water, the gently roasted organic chocolate malt and organic cocoa impart delicious, smooth and creamy character, with inviting deep flavors and a delightful finish. It is the perfect marriage of satisfying stout and luxurious chocolate. Don’t let the dark color intimidate you. If you love chocolate and/or coffee, give this stout a try.

While these are all quite tasty alone, it’s always fun to mix things up. Below are a few delicious combinations and concoctions to keep it interesting.

Rosé Julep 5 oz. Bourbon 5 oz. Crème de Cassis 5 oz. Simple Syrup 6-8 Mint Leaves 4-5 oz. Angry Orchard Rosé Cider

Muddle the mint in the bottom of a Julep Tin. Add the rest of the ingredients, and then fill the Julep Tin with crushed ice. Garnish with a lavish mint bouquet.

Yours Truly 6 oz. Truly Spiked and Sparkling Colima Lime 1/2 oz. Triple sec 1/2 oz. Pomegranate juice 1 oz. Vodka Combine vodka, triple sec and pomegranate juice over ice in a collins glass.

Top with Truly Spiked and Sparkling Colima Lime. Garnish with lime slice.

Chocolate Covered Raspberry 2-3 oz. Lindeman’s Framboise 12 oz. Samuel Smith’s Organic Chocolate Stout Put Lindemans Framboise into a pint glass and top it off with Samuel Smith’s Organic Chocolate Stout. Whether you call it a Chocolate-Covered Raspberry, a Chocolate Truffle or a Raspberry Stout . . . this blend of two exquisite beers will make any evening into a night to remember. Try it with Kriek for a Chocolate-Covered Cherry, or Strawberry for a Chocolate-Covered Strawberry.

Be sure to like Choice Brands on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to keep up with local happenings and new product releases. In addition, you’ll find links to beer related articles, fun recipes, and much more! Find us at facebook.com/choicebrands, twitter.com/choicebrandsinc, and instagram. com/choicebrands.

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MAKE 2018 YOUR YEAR TO GET ORGANIZED

by Erin Sharplin Love erinlove@panachebyerin.com

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ave you made any resolutions this year? Would one of them happen to be to “simplify” your life or to “get organized?” The word “simplify” has been batted around quite a bit these days, and my guess is that many people are becoming increasingly tired of an accumulation of unneeded items around the house. Can you relate?

If so, what has stopped you from beginning the cleaning process?

Is the thought too overwhelming? Or maybe you don’t have time.

Either way, this article will give you some great reasons to stop procrastinating and to get organized: • Y our home will be cleaner. And who doesn’t enjoy the awesome feeling of a clean home? Having fewer items means that you will have less to clean. What? Did I say “less to clean?” YES! Getting rid of unneccessary clutter will allow you to clean faster and easier, thus creating a home that is cleaner and more enjoyable.

• Your life will feel less chaotic. Think about your mornings for a minute. How chaotic is it trying to get your kids, much less yourself, out of the door and to school and appointments on time?

Now, picture yourself as a calm and organized mom, who is ready for anything that may come her way. Yep…you can have that by getting organized.

• Your children will notice. Simplicity and order exemplify discipline. Your children will learn from your everyday discipline of cleaning and organizing and will almost instinctually display it later when they have created lives of their own. Okay, okay…this doesn’t always happen, but I can guarantee that your children will notice if their home is cluttered or organized.

• Your relationship may improve. It is scientifically proven that clutter breeds stress and uneasiness. How can you nurture your relationships under such circumstances?

• You will feel more confident. If I were to show up at your house right now, how would you feel? Confident in your surroundings or embarrassed by them? Getting organized guarantees that the answer to this question would be final – CONFIDENT!

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• Y ou will be able to have more fun. When your home is simplified and orderly, EVERYTHING takes less time. That means MORE time for fun! As an added bonus, you will be confident enough to entertain friends and family in your home.

• You will be able to get more done! How much time do you waste looking for things? How often do you pace back and forth, because you forgot what you were doing? If you live in clutter, I can bet this is a common occurrence. Clutter makes it extremely hard to get stuff done! End of story.

• You will never waste time again. In other words, you will never have to LOOK for things again! You will always know right where they are. How great does that sound?

• You can relax. Disorder creates a feeling of being overwhlemed.

That feeling is the opposite of “relaxed.” Clear the clutter to create a more serene environment. You will be able to enjoy the small things, such as sipping hot tea, reading a good book, etc.

• You will have more room for the things you love. By getting rid of the items that you aren’t using, you will make room for more of the things you do love and use. More clothes? Why yes…let me toss a few of the shirts that I don’t wear anymore! More books? I would love that! Let me get rid of those that I have already read and don’t think I will read again. Think about it…why are you holding on to items that aren’t serving any purpose?

• It may advance your career. Consider this scenario – Two women are up for a promotion. One is frequently late to work, comes a bit frazzled and never quite has the right outfit on. The other is always on time, confident and always looks streamlined and welldressed. Who is going to get that promotion? My bet is on the one who is obviously more organized.

• Do it for yourself! You deserve it!

So, which reason gave you the push you needed to get organized? Please share with me! erinlove@panachebyerin.com

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Love You More

The Power of Loving Yourself and Others

BY BEATRICE TATEM, PH.D., LPC-S, NCC, ACS

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N MY OFFICE IS A PILLOW WITH THE INSCRIPTION “Love You More.” Although the words are fitting all year, I display the pillow during February, the month associated with love. Many clients have commented on the wording. The comment that stands out most is of a woman who stated others love her more than she loves herself and her love for others is greater than her love for self.

She described struggling with a lack of self-love and appreciation.

This led to a discussion about the power love has on our well-being and our relationships with self and others. “Love you more” is a message to love yourself more as well as is a loving response to others. There is the saying, all we need is love. Clients have taught me love is the most important of human experiences…it is essential to the soul. All of us want and need love. We are all lovable and deserve loving. The desire and search for love makes us learn, change and grow. We can all love our selves more while loving others more. When we love ourselves more, we love more. The more love we have, the more we can give.

Love comes in many forms: the love between parents and children, between spouses and partners, between friends and relatives, between owners and pets can be rewarding, transformative, meaningful and can amount to fulfilling relationships and experiences. Love comes to us through various situations and circumstances as a result of different interactions.

My work in the mental health profession has afforded me with the opportunity to witness love in its many forms, as well as it has exposed me to situations where there is an absence of love. I have been reminded love means many things to many people and is therefore defined differently. Sometimes love is conditional; while at other times, it is provided unconditionally. Although at times it may seem convoluted and complicated I have learned when present, love is powerful.

you feel loved. Love yourself without judging yourself. When you love what you do, you do it with love therefore strive to always do what you love. Love life, and live it with love. Celebrate Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to love yourself as well as the other significant people in your life. Keep in mind true love is priceless it out weighs the most select brands of candy and can not be measured in gifts or amount of money you spend. Make “loving you more” a part of your lifestyle . Keep love on your mind. It will enhance your mental health. Tell the special people in your life how much you love them. Send random messages of love. Accept others love and love others. Avoid limiting your love to a few people. Provide TLC or tender loving care to those that are sick and shut in. Speak, show, feel love just because…in essence, love unconditionally.

It has been said love is the most powerful of all we have been given and in turn the most valuable thing we have to give and to receive. It inspires, motivates and empowers. To be loved is to be supported, encouraged and uplifted. Love is purposeful and meaningful. Love unites, influences and builds bridges between those who think, act, look and live differently. Love brings about social change and at times makes the difference. It shields and protects, and, yet, there are times when it takes strength and courage to trust love. Love lessens distrust, insecurity and hatred. Love fuels us to push through challenges and pass situations of defeat. Love with all its might liberates, conquers and heals. Love comes as a result of connections and as a result of connections we love. Love can be perceived as ideal, divine and life altering, and, yet, there are times when it is misunderstood, assumed, taking for granted and betrayed. The possibility of love is everywhere and is all around us. Therefore, the chance to love and be loved exists where ever life takes you. This February and throughout the year, remember the power of loving yourself and others more.

SUGGESTED WAYS TO “LOVE YOU MORE“

Celebrate your love for self by showing how much you love you. Savor love and love abundantly. Loving and being loved feels good; create expressions of love to share. Seek out other people who value love as much as you do. Identify who loves you, what makes

For more information about counseling services and outreach programming contact Dr. Tatem at Wellness Initiatives, LLC 1900 North 18th Street, Suite 414, Monroe, La 71201, 318-410-1555 or at btatem.bt@gmail.com.

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DOWNTOWN GALLERY CRAWL

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February 1st | 5 to 9 .m.

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he Downtown Gallery Crawl continues its 10th Anniversary celebration on Thursday, February 1st. Featuring nine galleries in Monroe and West Monroe, crawlers are invited to stroll down Art Alley from 5-9 PM. Come enjoy savory local cuisine at any (or all) of the food trucks, shake your hips to live bands and many other happenings, all while supporting our area’s creative community.

Before your evening begins, don’t forget to grab a Crawl Map at any of the participating galleries. The map also doubles as your Passport. Use our chauffeurs to collect a stamp at each gallery on both sides of the Ouachita. Once you’ve visited all nine galleries, bring your completed Crawl Passport to Flying Tiger Brewery to redeem your Crawler Perk!

All of the galleries in the Crawl have something special lined up for Thursday night. The six resident artist’s of Sugar Gallery are excited to celebrate the February crawl with their show “Revels and Hearts.”

Melanie Douthit, artist and Sugar Gallery curator, comments, “Our lives embrace one celebration to another, from Mardi Gras to Superbowl to Valentine’s Day.” As a special treat this month, some of Sugar Gallery’s artists will be painting during the crawl.

Drop in to see Leah Reitzell’s “Carnival and Cranes” featuring colorful characters and Louisiana Cranes wrapped in moonlight.

Enjoy landscapes and local imagery with Doug Breckenridge’s oil paintings, Melanie Douthit’s ink and watercolor pieces, and Burg Ransom’s award winning photos. Next door, artist Cody Allen Greer will exhibit work in The Downtown Gallery, curated by Ricky Sikes.

The Fine Arts students from Louisiana Tech University are so prolific that they will take over three galleries this Crawl!

The Upstairs Gallery will highlight the work of nine MFA students from Tech’s School of Design in the show “We Learned

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4 From This.” Next door, “Myriad” in The Big Room Gallery will showcase current bodies of work completed by seniors pursuing a BFA in Studio Art. Artists will give a series of talks in The Big Room at 7 p.m. Then on South Grand Street, Brooke Foy of the Garrett House will present Molly Engan, a graduating senior in Studio Art. Paired with this friendly space will be the Caster and Chicory food truck, set up on The Garrett House lawn and serving up yummy beignets and hot chocolate!

The Outside Gallery (facing the train tracks) will have an outdoor installment by Lindy Chambers. Chambers’ art bridges realism and the abstract as influenced by her surroundings in rural Texas and her belief that, “Resilience and optimism conquer meager incomes.”

At the opposite end of Art Alley, The Palace Gallery will feature African-American free hand artist Adrienne Brown-David. Her latest works consist of hundreds of tiny houses and neighborhoods created with a single Sharpie pen, used until it completely runs out of ink.

For your nightcap, Rumo’s Gallery (on Antique Alley in West Monroe) will present work by Amanda Roe, an Instructor in ULM’s School of Visual and Performing Arts. Roe’s artistic arsenal includes latex paint, paint pens and oil pastels on wood panels. Roe explains, “My work usually deals with my relationship with society through a mixture of sometimes horrific and other times brightly colored scenes and objects like gas masks, skulls, landscapes and myself. It’s a way for me to balance the noise within both my heart and mind when

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dealing with exterior forces beyond my control.”

At each Crawl during this anniversary year, there will be new merchandise for Crawl Companions— the new “friends group” that will help to keep the Downtown Gallery Crawl a free event. Stop by the swag booth on Art Alley and become a Crawl Companion to support this local event that’s brought fine art, good food and live music to the 318 for ten years!

The artists of the Downtown Arts Alliance, as well as their appreciative public, sincerely thank the always-generous DAA sponsors, especially Sunquest Properties, Louisiana Pain Care, Creed and Creed Law Firm, Fiesta Nutrition Center/The Good Earth Salad Bar, Cross Keys Bank, Lavalle Salomon Law Office, Dr. Terry Tugwell, Bayou Roux Restaurant, Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau, Masur Museum of Art, Northeast Louisiana Arts Council, Sir Speedy, the News-Star, KEDM Public Radio, DeltaStyle, Louisiana Division of the Arts, Choice Brands and Marsala Beverage. Sponsorships are still available. For information on levels of support and benefits, see the organization’s website at www.downtowngallerycrawl. com.

The next Downtown Gallery Crawl will be Thursday, April 5, 2018, when the galleries will continue to celebrate their tenth year of entertaining their neighbors.

1) DOUG BRECKENRIDGE 2) MOLLY ENGAN 3) MELANIE DOUTHIT 4) LEAH REITZELL 5) MORGAN JEANETTE 6) KEITH MATHEWS

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Just as certain notes of music, a specific fragrance or faded pictures from long ago remind of us love, various colors can also offer that same feeling of endearment. We are all subtly influenced by the way color has been used for centuries in the celebrated public and intimate private spaces of our homes.

Cathi French Roberts & Lori French

COLOR Theory

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hite is calm and cool. Naturally a background for the utmost of contrast, but used alone, all shades of white can provide even a stronger statement. White is love at its purist and a natural way to evoke young and new love. White damask or linen bedding ushers in spring and adds dimension. Try a euro shaped flanged pillow or textured woven throw on your bed for an instant update. Hand thrown white African vessels evoke a feeling of history.

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ed of course is the most recognized symbol of love. It is the expression of feelings and ideas and is not shy. Want to showcase some passion in your home? Try a shade of red pillow or lampshade as an easy fix. Or go for the longterm and invest in an art piece that has a strong inflection of red. Whatever speaks your love language will bring you joy.

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avender and shades of soft blue are warm undertones and can be found in the most soothing sunsets. Most homes throughout history have a hint of this hue as it can be accented with companion colors or used alone. Perfect in a Vada Speed’s childhood room, tone on tone lavender is mixed with white, cream, touches of blush and hints of silver. The light intensity of this combination of colors based on lavender is echoed with timeless accents and lively handcrafted keepsakes.

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ellow as it relates to love is most closely associated with youthfulness and optimism. It has been shown to increase our mental activity and encourage communication. Try a lemon colored pot to hold your pencils or pens on your work table. A yellow silk shantung slipper chair in a living room can add a touch of whimsy and is a strong standout piece in an otherwise dull room. Yellow sunflowers can be placed anywhere for a touch of cheerful beauty especially in the dining room.

reen is the landscape of our love of nature and represents balance and harmony. Green is the perfect symbol of the love of earthly life and the afterlife. The combination of shades of green are tied to all things of the natural world and the everyday names of lime, cilantro, mint and pistachio evoke this visual. A small library or study wrapped in high gloss paint of deep green is strong, yet cozy. A large fluted clear bowl filled with fragrant robust limes is a clean, fresh emphasis on an entry or dining table.

FOR YOUR OWN FRENCH TWIST CONSULTATION, CALL CATHI AND LORI AT 318-355-3041 20 FEBRUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

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Helping You Hear the Whole Story Audibel is Northeast Louisiana’s Hearing Headquarters

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EARING LOSS HAPPENS. IT’S the third most common health problem in the U.S., according to WebMD, and it can affect the quality of your life and relationships. Hearing loss is also very treatable – even more so when detected early.

If you suspect you have hearing loss, why not find out for sure? At Audibel The Hearing Center, we want you to hear the rest of the story. We offer free consultations and here are 11 reasons you should get a hearing test: • It’s free, painless and takes less than an hour.

• Hearing loss has been known to foreshadow cardiovascular events.

• When it comes back negative for hearing loss, you can tell your friends to get off your back.

• The Mayo Clinic recommends every adult get a baseline hearing test.

• Untreated hearing loss is known to contribute to dementia.

• People with untreated hearing loss are more likely to fall.

• Most hearing clinics serve free cookies and coffee.

• Treating hearing loss by wearing hearing aids is proven to reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

• Untreated hearing loss is known to contribute to depression and social isolation.

• Hearing loss treatment has been shown to improve earning power.

• Because you’re proactive about your health and care about your quality of life.

Certain conditions, including age, illness and genetics, may play a role in hearing loss. Modern life has added a host of eardamaging elements to the list, including

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some medications and plenty of sources of loud, ongoing noise. With so many untreatable cases of hearing loss, prevention is the best way to keep hearing long-term. If you’ve already lost some hearing, there are ways to stay connected and communicate with friends and family. We even see people that have hearing aids still affected by hearing loss. At Audibel, we offer the cutting edge of technology when it comes to hearing aids so often, we suggest a hearing aid upgrade.

Audibel’s products represent years of research and clinical trials all aimed at providing better audibility and speech understanding as well as comfort. Built with the new Synergy platform, these hearing aids are designed so that you can hear all the subtleties of life. Understand the subtle tone or accent in a loved one’s voice and enjoy nuances in the notes of your favorite song.

So with all this new and exciting technology, is it time to consider upgrading?

Here are three reasons you may want to consider an upgrade:

To accommodate a change in hearing: Updating to new technology may be necessary to accommodate a significant change in hearing. If you begin to notice more difficulty understanding speech, TV or hearing in noisy conditions, your hearing may have changed. Keep in mind that age-related hearing loss does change over time. Changes in hearing are expected, and hearing acuity often diminishes over time. Upgrading to more sophisticated technology can help compensate for these changes.

To accommodate a change in lifestyle: Changes in occupational requirements, living situations and outside interests often require

better or different performance from your hearing aids. Conference calls, meetings or an increase in social activities may require more advanced technology. An active lifestyle can take you from one difficult listening situation to another. Recent advancements in mechanical algorithms help tackle one of the biggest challenges hearing aid wearers face: hearing and understanding speech well in noise. Treating your hearing loss with the most sophisticated technology available will allow you to hear well in a number of challenging environments.

To improve overall listening performance: Experienced hearing aid wearers often develop specific listening preferences. New advancements give listeners more control over hearing aid settings and functionality. For example, with Audibel A4i iQ hearing aids and the TruLink Hearing Control App, unique listening preferences for specific environments, such as a favorite restaurant or coffee shop, can be saved and easily accessed as geotagged memories.

ABOUT US

Audibel The Hearing Center is Northeast Louisiana’s Audibel dispenser. Cherry Phillips “The Hearing Lady” has been serving this area for over 30 years. We offer free hearing screenings, free second opinions, extended warranties and repairs on all makes and brands of hearing aids. You can find out more by visiting our website www.AudibelMonroe. com and you can see more and like us on Facebook.com/AudibelMonroe.

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Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed.

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HE MOTTO FOR CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK THIS year is Learn, Serve, Lead, Succeed. Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School strives for each of our students to focus on these exemplary values. JGS students are inspired to learn and excel in academics and sports, to have a heart to serve their neighbors, community, school and family, and to lead their peers while remaining humble and kind. Our objective as educators is to create a desire in them to succeed in all that they set their minds to do, while keeping Christ at the forefront of their life. These are the hopes, desires and prayers of our JGS principal and staff. This is the atmosphere we work toward each day at JGS School.

OPEN REGISTRATION BEGINS FEBRUARY 19TH

Registration for current families begins February 5th, with open registration for new families beginning February 19th. We encourage those interested in JGS School to: • Visit our school website, www.jesusgoodshepherd.org.

• Browse our Jesus the Good Shepherd School Facebook page.

• Take a school tour. Tours are offered every Tuesday morning at 9:00 a.m. and by appointment with our principal, Mrs. Lisa Patrick.

• Inquire about tuition assistance. Assistance is available for qualified applicants.

We know that you have many options when it comes to education. Give us a chance to show you why JGS is different.

We want you, the parent, to feel confident that your child is being provided the best possible education, while thriving in a nurturing, safe and fun environment that is geared toward learning, creativity and structure.

5TH ANNUAL TRAVEL RAFFLE

The 5th Annual JGS Travel Raffle will kick off on Tuesday, January 30th with ticket sales continuing through Wednesday, February 21st. The 1st place winner will have their choice between an $8,000 travel package that includes a $6,000 travel voucher with Monroe Travel Company to be used toward the trip of their choice, plus $2,000 in spending money or an $8,000 cash option, which 24 FEBRUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

means the lucky winner will have $8,000 cash in their pocket. The 2nd place winner will take home $1,000 in cash and the 3rd place winner will receive a $500 cash prize. Raffle tickets can be purchased from any JGS student or at our school office located at 900 Good Shepherd Lane. The raffle drawing will be held on Thursday, February 22nd at the JGS Spring Sports Pep Rally. All proceeds from this fundraiser directly benefit Jesus the Good Shepherd School. Last year’s travel raffle proceeds went toward: • Maintaining the school operating budget.

• Additional fencing to secure the front perimeter of the school.

• New playground equipment.

• Helped fund the purchase of three C.O.W. (computers on wheels) carts.

• Wages for off duty police officer during school assembly and dismissal.

• Replacement of gymnasium bleachers ($25,000). Completion of installation is expected in the Spring.

We feel it is important that our families and community know that the monies contributed to all our fundraising events is spent diligently and wisely to benefit the good of JGS School.

The consistent support over the years from families, parents, grandparents, parishioners and the community has greatly contributed to the school JGS has become and we could not be more thankful and indebted to your generosity. Thank you for your support and prayers for JGS School. Our mission is to continue to instill in each child a love of learning and a love of God, self and others.

Families interested in finding out more about Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School are encouraged to visit our website, www. jesusgoodshepherd.org, and Facebook page or contact the school office directly at 318-325-8569. Tours are given every Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. and by appointment with our principal, Mrs. Lisa Patrick. Registration packets available at school office. Tuition assistance available for qualified applicants.

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Blackberries

Growing Berries I N YO U R B A C K YA R D ARTICLE BY P. ALLEN SMITH

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o my delight, growing your own food has become increasingly popular in recent years. More and more backyard gardens are springing to life as the trend grows, and my research shows berry plants are one of the top selections. This may be because store-bought berries are often expensive, and the non-organic versions could carry traces of chemicals and pesticides. Most of us would rather avoid those, but may not be willing or able to pay the price of organics.

Fortunately, berries are easy to grow and don’t require much space. With a little knowhow and careful preparation, you can dine on raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and strawberries throughout the growing season.

The first step is to know your growing zone, and then you can begin shopping. Here’s a few helpful hints I’ve learned over the years before you get started.

Blueberries

Blueberry shrubs are easy to grow, and there’s a type suitable for nearly every climate or garden space. In fact, you don’t necessarily need a garden because you can select dwarf varieties that will thrive in containers.

However, when choosing a blueberry shrub for your garden there are a few characteristics 26 FEBRUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

to consider. Some blueberries require a companion blueberry plant of a different variety for pollination in order to produce berries. This means you need to plant two of the same type. Other blueberries are selfpollinating, so one shrub alone will produce a good amount of berries.

Blueberries require a certain amount of “chilling time” to produce fruits. Northern Highbush, Half-High and Lowbush blueberries are best suited for climates where winters are long and cold. Rabbiteye blueberries hail from the southeastern U.S. so will thrive in zones 7-9. Southern Highbush blueberries need even less chilling time and will thrive as far south as zone 10.

Raspberries

Raspberries are sweet, flavorful and a welcome addition to the garden. First, there are two types to consider – everbearing and summer bearing. Everbearing raspberries produce from early summer into fall on firstand second-year canes. The summer bearing types bear fruit on first-year canes once during the growing season. Aside from fruit production, raspberry pruning techniques vary on the two types as well. So, keep that in mind when selecting the varieties or when you’re ready to prune.

Next, take a look at the varieties that will perform best in your part of the world.

For my mid-South location, I grow ‘Heritage’ and ‘Dorman Red,’ but a few other reliable selections are ‘Encore’ and ‘Latham Red.’ Check with your local county extension service or a trusted garden center, before you go all in. Next, confirm the age of the plant you will purchase. I like to start with two-year-old bare root plants and plant them in very early spring.

Strawberries

This is the most common backyard berry for good reason. It’s often the most productive.

During its relatively short growing season, a strawberry plant can produce a rewarding amount of fruit and, as such, offers a sense of satisfaction for beginning growers. I would recommend ‘Allstar’ strawberry. The name says it all. It’s a June-bearing plant that yields large, juicy, sweet berries that you could enjoy immediately in a lemonade or shortcake as well as freeze, for those who want to enjoy a taste of summer in the throes of winter. These plants love rich soil with lots of compost, leaf mold and well-rotted manure, as well as fertilizer, of course. Keep the soil loose and make sure they get plenty of sun!

Blueberries

Blackberries

I think a large part of the Southern experience is picking wild blackberries on the side of the road. However, the ‘domesticated’ varieties of this fruit will provide sweeter yields and bigger fruits.

Plus, the thornless varieties can make harvesting a little less painful. As roadside blackberry patches have shown, this plant likes to spread! In your yard, it can grow on a trellis or in a garden bed with a few feet in between. The fruit-producing canes should be pruned during the season, which will encourage new growth.

Though berries may take some trial and error before you get comfortable, they can be highly rewarding. Try planting one of each to see how it goes. It’s a learning experience the first time around.

And if you are disappointed the first year, don’t be discouraged!

These plants will return next year and offer more berries for your morning cereal or snacks. So, keep at it!

If you’re interested in learning more about planting fruits and vegetables, why not take a tour of Moss Mountain Farm outside of Little Rock? Spring tours are available now at pallensmith.com/ tours.

Strawberries

Photo credits: Blueberries – Photographer, Donna Evans, Blackberries – Photographer, Mark Fonville P. Allen Smith is an author, television host and conservationist with a passion for American style. His show “Garden Home” airs on LPB, KLTM, KLPA and AETN. Check your local listings for “Garden Style.” Smith uses his Arkansas home, Moss Mountain Farm, as an epicenter for promoting the local food movement, organic gardening and the preservation of heritage poultry breeds. He created his farm to serve as a place of inspiration, education and conservation and provides visitors from around the country with tours of his property, which may be booked at pallensmith.com/tours.

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ARTICLE BY VANELIS RIVERA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RJ OJEDA

FOR THE LOVE OF MUSIC

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ASTRO MOTEL

bass player howls an echoey cue of “One, two, three, four.” An instant medley of bass, guitar, drums and harmonica emblazons the room. Harmonic twangs dominate from the lead singer’s staunch vocals. As the introductory medley fades with the last breath of the harmonica, the beat begins. A guitarist leads, whipping high-pitched chords among the torrent of drums, cymbals and bass. Arresting guttural sounds flow from the singer’s mouth, thick as molasses, breathy and preternatural. Finally, barely distinct lyrics crystalize -- “I preach the blues to ya, I preach the blues to ya, I preach the blues to ya…” What follows is a revivalist whirlwind of rock and roll. Ladies and gentlemen, Astro Motel.

The band’s beginnings emanated from a need to write songs with a “Southern Gothic slant,” relays lead singer of Astro Motel, the eclectic Joel Jordan. During a 2014 stint in Delhi, Louisiana, he and former roommate and band mate, “virtuosic guitar player,” Blake Goodwin, enthralled by horror movies, assembled a full

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band that rolled the spacey with the ethereal “like a landscape and a movie soundtrack.” The illustrious band name was fashioned in that favor. Jordan explains that “it was something to reflect the kind of duality of music that we were playing -- dirty, Gothic, Southern, seedy underbelly of the culture, but with a real spacy atmospheric sheen.” By happenstance, Jordan passed an actual Astro Motel as he drove through Meridian, Mississippi on his way to Alabama, adopting the “Americana” sounding appellation, fitting for the band’s “spacedilly” genre.

Thanks to a chance encounter, Astro Motel landed another band mate with bass player and Chris Stapleton doppelgänger, Jacob Lofton. A year after Astro Motel formed, Lofton spotted Jordan jamming and clapping to a live performance of Cedric O. Burnside during a night out at Live Oaks Bar & Ballroom. “Man, this guy is really into this playing,” thought Lofton, humored.

On a break, the musicians bonded over a smoke, and Lofton was invited to jam with the band during their practice sessions.

Impressing the band with his bass lines, Lofton was on stage with them after a month.

Astro Motel recorded their first EP (Extended Play Record) in 2016, welcoming guitarist Tyler Sean Martin, “Sweet Lips Ricky,” into the studio, who later stayed as an official band member. When the drummer of the band left last year, Brad McCormick, bandmate and long time friend of Martin, joined, completing the Astro Motel that rocks venues from northeast Louisiana to Texas. Whether “divinely orchestrated or out of necessity,” Jordan makes no distinction. Regardless, the varied musical upbringing of these Southern talents contributes to their chemistry and “kick-ass rhythm,” bonding the unit as their different musical influences crash into each other, forming a living organism of sound.

The local guys of the band are drummer McCormick and guitarist Martin who attended West Ouachita High School and are also part of “alien rock” band, Jig the Alien. A much different sound than Astro Motel, these Monroe players manage the shift between the non-stop tempo of Jig the Alien and Astro Motel’s “bluesy” intervals with ease. McCormick is probably the most casual of the group -- a jeans and Converse guy whom Lofton has dubbed “the Viking of the group.” McCormick doesn’t claim this nickname, but his drum set may make a case for the fun moniker.

“I bought new cymbals in March and by June they were broken. I average one broken stick per practice,” McCormick states. Influenced by drummers like Dave Grohl and Chad Smith, McCormick prides himself in breaking a lot and playing hard.

From his first drum set at 13 years old to the bearded percussionist that bonds the sounds of two bands, McCormick’s approach is all about the playing. “I’m the drummer. I just show up.”

After being introduced by beloved local musician Thomas Bradley “Tito” as “team heart throb, Sweet Lips Ricky,” the nickname stuck and Martin went with it. Though he claims that he likes to be kept a mystery, founder of Jig the Alien, Martin doesn’t look like a wallflower. Rocking long wavy brown locks and, just like Lofton and McCormick, fully bearded and ‘stached,’ Martin looks like he stepped out of a 1970’s rock album cover.

Heavily influenced by the band Dinosaur Jr., Martin is all about

rock and roll, but also claims that Astro Motel is by far his favorite band. “Their style of music is what I grew up on,” says Martin, which allows him to naturally add flare to whatever they do.

In the midst of serving his “baby girl” chocolate milk, family man and dad of the band Jake Lofton told BayouLife, “You caught me on my job.” This self-proclaimed “wild child” was born and raised in Urania, Louisiana, and identified as “that weird Pentecostal kid.” With a dodgy past, writing and performing music has helped him battle depression. As a child, Lofton had always been attracted to the performance of music. He fondly remembers dancing to Vanilla Ice with his babysitter. But his true calling began at church. “In church, there were these old time boogie songs, upbeat, uptempo, gospel music. A melting pot of musicians would come every summer and go to church camp, and there would be music every night. Pentecostal kids worshiping, jumping up in the air, baptising people up ‘til midnight,” Lofton says. Out of the furor that was his experience, it was the people on stage that attracted him. He asked a preacher to learn how to play bass, and although fumbling at first, his development began. In high school, he was introduced to the Red Hot Chili Peppers and tried to mimic their sound, having to keep his CDs away from his mom, who deemed them “the Devil’s music.” When Creed came out, he remembers being fixated with the band’s performance and look, thinking, “These dudes are so badass. The bass player doesn’t even have a shirt on. I want to do that.” Lofton’s one shirtless moment occurred last Halloween at Live Oaks, where he got on stage, “danced, moshed, and brought chaos during the last song.”

Often resembling a hodgepodge of Hank Williams’ southern dapper, Tom Petty’s funky garb, and Nick Cave’s haunting mystique, Joel Jordan is the music scholar of the group. He’s the type of guy that quotes William Faulkner, has picked cotton for a living and has a thirst for music history. From Mobile, Alabama, Jordan moved around until he settled in Delhi, Louisiana, where he founded Astro Motel. A “band nerd” in middle school, he played the trombone in jazz band and over the years developed a keen ear for all things blues. “The visceral feel and simplicity, it’s the same raw emotion, human experience. It’s a common thread between the blues,” Jordan explains. Imbued with the romantic,

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KNOW THE BAND particularly regarding artists that were unaffected by the establishments of music, he loves Bob Dylan, crediting Dylan as the reason he picked up the harmonica. Unconventional in the best way, Jordan seeks to get in touch with Cosmic American music, distilled with the desire and need to “play music for the rest of [his] life.”

With the common thread of being musically swayed at early ages and college dropouts, all four band members prove that the pursuit of talent and love of the art does not go unrewarded. This year Astro Motel will be releasing their second EP with the help of Dan Sumner, a guitar teacher and jazz-trained musician, who has a studio in the Garden District. The bulk of the new tracks were recorded on analog, as in the likes of vinyl records and cassette tapes, allowing for more authentic sounds. Jordan says to expect more of his invigorating harmonics, trombone and organ complements of Tony Cortellini, along with guest features.

Each song is its own theatrical piece commanding an energy all its own from each of the players. Jordan’s “fascination with old-fashioned guitar that sounds like it almost might be broken” constructs the “dirty sound” that’s “gonna have ya’ holy rollin’ before it’s all over with,” says Lofton. The artists describe their sound and fury in a similar way, a form of letting go or being “zoned out” and in a world where their “fingers are doing exactly what they have to do,” says Martin. Jordan who identifies as an introvert, credits his sonic transformation on stage to Sumner who taught him to never “leave anyone wanting more,” because it may be the only thing anyone ever experiences from him.

Lofton seconds the sentiment of no feeling left behind, describing performing as an “engine running right,” where, he adds, “Nothing else in this world matters except for us being on stage locked in. I’m addicted to it.”

Astro Motel has crafted an electrifying body of work. “It’s new dirty and fun,” says Lofton, who prides himself in being part of a group of “four dudes” who are just doing the most rock and roll thing by focusing on the “pure art that comes from it.”

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Check out their rapturing beats on Spotify or follow the band’s Facebook or Instagram to keep up with future performances. Book them for your next gig at booking. astromotel@gmail.com.

Get to know these rockstronauts more intimately through some of their favorite songs:

JOEL Jig the Alien “Box Boogie” Screamin’ Jay Hawkins “I Put a Spell on You” Bruce Springsteen “Downbound Train” Broken Bells “Vaporize”

JAKE Weezer "Island in the Sun" Billy Joel "Piano Man" Van Morrison "Into the Mystic" Beatles "Paperback Writer"

TYLER Dinosaur Jr. “Watch the Corners” Diarrhea Planet "Kids" Lynyrd Skynyrd "That Smell" Twin Peaks "I Wanted You"

BRAD Beatles "Happiness is a Warm Gun" Them Crooked Vultures "Spinning in Daffodils" Nothing but Thieves "I'm Not Made

by Design" Greta Van Fleet “Black Smoke Rising”

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Historical Impressions

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TRUE LOVE CAN NOT BE DENIED

OVE AND WAR. THESE TWO human endeavors would normally seem mutually exclusive. But the former sometimes has a way of overcoming any hardship the latter might impose.

Horace Greasley was called up for service in the British Army after the Nazi invasion of Czechoslovakia. Unfortunately, he was quickly captured and sent to a POW camp in Poland. Greasley was there only a few days when he met Rosa Raubach, the daughter of one the camp staff.

Horace and Rosa began a secret affair that lasted for nearly a year, before he was transferred to another prison. At this new camp, Horace enlisted the help of friends, so he could crawl under the barbed wire fencing to escape. But Horace did not try to get home to England. Instead, he went back to his old prison and to Rosa. And he kept going back and forth, meeting Rosa for about three times a week for five years. His unbelievable escapes and prison “entries” were never discovered by the Nazis.

Arabella Griffith was an educated member of New York High Society. In 1861, she met and married a lawyer, Francis Barlow, who had enlisted in the Union Army. Arabella volunteered as a nurse, so she could occasionally visit Francis while he served. Francis was seriously wounded during the Battle of Gettysburg. Confederate General John Gordon found him lying on the battlefield, gave him some water and took him to the Army’s doctors. Barlow told the doctors that he wished to get a message to his wife regarding his condition. A compassionate Confederate escorted Arabella through the lines to care for her husband and then allowed her to take him back to New Jersey to recuperate.

Francis rejoined the Union Army in 1864.

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Arabella went back to work as a nurse but died from heat exhaustion after only a few months. Francis never remarried.

Julius Koreny was arrested by the German Gestapo in Zagreb, Yugoslavia and taken away to parts unknown. His fiancée, Olga Watkins refused to believe family and friends who said Julius had surely been killed. Instead, she set out on a 2,000 mile journey through Nazioccupied Europe to find him.

Upon reaching the Buchenwald concentration camp, Olga took a job as a secretary and began searching for clues on what had happened to Julius. Olga finally discovered Julius was right there in Buchenwald.

When the camp was liberated by the Americans soon after, Olga found Julius inside, recovering from typhus. A few days later, the remaining survivors of the camp threw the happy couple a wedding.

Daniel and Susan Bakeman married when he was 12 and she was 14. Daniel became the longest-living Revolutionary War veteran, dying at age 109. The couple had eight children together and endured a variety of hardships, including ten years of war and three house fires. Susan lived to 105, making her marriage to the longest living Revolutionary War veteran the world’s longest known marriage at 91 years.

Boris Kozlov had to return to his Red Army unit only three days after marrying his beloved Anna. The couple kissed goodbye, expecting to see each other again in a few weeks. They would not be reunited for 60 years. Anna and her family were banished to Siberia during Stalin’s purges. They were not allowed to leave word for any of their family or friends. When Boris returned home, Anna was nowhere to be found. As time passed, Boris and Anna finally succumbed

to family pressure and reluctantly moved on with their lives. Each eventually remarried. Each outlived their spouses.

With the fall of the Soviet Union, Anna finally returned to her hometown and recognized Boris getting out of his car as she was walking along the street. Boris and Anna married each other – again – a few days later.

When their state sided with the Confederacy, North Carolinians Linda and Keith Blalock decided to remain loyal to the Union. The married couple knew Keith would have to enlist in the Confederate Army or risk imprisonment, but they swore to stay together regardless of what it might take. Linda disguised herself as a man and enlisted in her husband’s regiment as Keith’s brother, “Sam” Blalock. Sam and Linda planned to defect, as soon as they reached Northern territory. Before they could cross Union lines, however, Linda’s true identity was discovered, and she was forced out of the Army. Keith was unwilling to be separated from his wife, so he decided to get himself discharged as well. Keith went into the forest, took off his clothes, and rolled around in poison ivy. He then convinced Confederate doctors that he had an incurable disease and received his release from the service. Keith and Linda fled to the Appalachian Mountains and for the rest of the war lived a life on the run as Union raiders working to sabotage Confederate military efforts.

These are only a few of the many incredible stories of love enduring and overcoming the hardships of war. Happy Valentine’s Day from the Board and Staff of the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum.

BY GUY MILLER Vice Chair-Chennault Aviation and Military Museum

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Wear your heart on your sleeve this Valentine’s Day with this oh-so-cute top from HERRINGSTONE’S

Make a statement of love with a yellow gold bar necklace accented with diamonds from HOLLIS AND COMPANY JEWELERS

FIESTA carries Lily’s steviasweetened chocolate bars. These bars have all the indulgence you crave, but with a lot fewer calories.

THURMAN’S is known for many tasty treats, especially their long-stem chocolate dipped strawberries.

These are perfect for any guy or girl!.

Get your girl these gold geometric block earrings from K-SERA to guarantee to perfect Valentine’s Day.

Available at WASHINGTON WINE AND SPIRITS, the Reynolds Family Reserve Cabernet the perfect wine to pair with your romantic steak dinner this Valentine’s Day!

SMALL CAKES in Monroe has plenty of sweets for your sweetie.

From chocolate to strawberry and everything in between, they have Valentine’s Day boxes with mini and regular sizes!

MATERIAL THINGS has plenty of gift options, including this romantic lace sachet that adds a little perfumed aroma to any closet, drawer or space.

Give her a little pampering this Valentine’s Day with a gift basket from PETALS AND PEARLS

At CHANTICLEERS in Rayville, you can find these beautifully painted coffee mugs that are too cute to pass up.

This Agate stone necklace from ABSOLUTELY ABIGAIL’S is perfect for the fashionable Valentine in your life.

Nail this Valentine’s Day with Smith & Cult fingernail polish, exclusively at RAIN. With plenty of colors, she will love any that you choose!

She is the queen of the castle, so let her put her feet up with this upholstered chair and ottoman from SLEEPY HOLLOW FURNITURE Give the gift of sanity and relaxation with a gift certificate from SPA NOUVELLE for a Spa Day Escape.

Classy and elegant, pearls from DUPONT JEWELERS will let her know just how much you love her.

GIFTS J’ADORE VALENTINE’S DAY MUST-HAVES

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Marsala Beverage

The Budweiser Clydesdales to appear in Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade

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ARSALA BEVERAGE IS EXCITED to to announce that the Budweiser Clydesdales will be returning to the Twin Cities for the annual Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade. The parade will take place on February 3rd, 2018. Please make plans to come out to see the World Famous Budweiser Clydesdales.

From the Prohibition Era to Super Bowl commercials, there is perhaps nothing more iconic in Budweiser’s storied history than its team of Clydesdale horses. More than just a mascot, the Clydesdales have been an integral part of Anheuser-Busch for more than 80 years.

HISTORY OF THE BUDWEISER CLYDESDALES On April 7, 1933, August A. Busch, Jr. and Adolphus Busch III surprised their father, August A. Busch, Sr., with the gift of a sixhorse Clydesdale hitch to commemorate the repeal of Prohibition of beer.

Realizing the marketing potential of a horse-drawn beer wagon, the company also arranged to have a second six-horse Clydesdale hitch sent to New York on April 7 to mark the event. The Clydesdales drew a crowd of thousands on their way to the Empire State Building. After a small ceremony, a case of Budweiser was presented to former Governor Alfred E. Smith in appreciation of his years of service in the fight against Prohibition.

This hitch continued on a tour of New England and the Mid-Atlantic states, thrilling thousands, before stopping in Washington, D.C., in April 1933 to reenact the delivery of one of the first cases of Budweiser to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The St. Louis hitch also toured in celebration, stopping in Chicago 36 FEBRUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

and other Midwestern cities.

Shortly after the hitch was first introduced, the six-horse Clydesdale team increased to eight. On March 30, 1950, in commemoration of the opening of the Anheuser-Busch Newark Brewery, a Dalmatian was introduced as the Budweiser Clydesdales’ mascot. Now, a Dalmatian travels with each of the Clydesdale hitches.

THE CLYDESDALES TODAY Today, the Budweiser Clydesdales continue to be an enduring symbol of the brewer’s heritage, tradition and commitment to quality, making hundreds of appearances across the country each year.

To properly prepare the Clydesdales for their appearances, a team of dedicated handlers oversees their care. Expert groomers travel on the road with the hitch at least 10 months out of the year. Another team oversees their diet; each hitch horse will consume as much as 20 to 25 quarts of whole grains, minerals and vitamins, 50 to 60 pounds of hay, and up to 30 gallons of water on a warm day.

When it comes time to travel to an appearance, 10 horses; the famous red, white, and gold beer wagon; and other essential equipment are transported in three 50-foot tractor-trailers. Cameras mounted in the trailers are connected to monitors in the cabs that enable the drivers to keep a watchful eye on their precious cargo during transport.

Air-cushioned suspension and thick rubber flooring in the trailers ease the rigors of traveling. The team stops each night at local stables, so the “gentle giants” can rest.

The team also travels with hitch drivers, who endure a lengthy training process,

before they assume the prestigious role of a Budweiser Clydesdale Hitch Driver. Driving the combined 12 tons of wagon and horses requires expert skill and physical strength. The 40 pounds of lines held by the driver plus the tension of the horses pulling creates a weight of more than 75 pounds.

When they’re not making appearances around the country, the Budweiser Clydesdales also continue to be marketing stalwarts for Anheuser-Busch. They first appeared in the Super Bowl in 1986 and have since appeared in more than 25 Super Bowl commercials for the company.

DID YOU KNOW? • Each of the Clydesdales’ handcrafted harnesses and collars weigh approximately 130 pounds.

• Budweiser Clydesdales’ horseshoes measure more than 20 inches from end to end and weigh about 5 pounds.

• Dalmatians were known as coach dogs because they ran between the wheels of coaches or carriages and were companions to the horses. Since the 1950s, Dalmatians have traveled with the Budweiser Clydesdales hitch, perched atop the wagon proudly seated next to the driver.

• The turn-of-the-century beer wagons have been meticulously restored and are kept in excellent condition. The wagons are equipped with two braking systems: a hydraulic pedal device that slows the vehicle for turns and downhill descents and a hand-brake that locks the rear wheels when the wagon is at a halt.

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Affinity Health Group Get Pumped About Heart Health!

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HERE’S NO BETTER TIME THAN February, American Heart Month, to get pumped up about heart health! Millions of Americans suffer from heart disease every year, resulting in heart attacks, strokes and heart failure. Many uncontrollable factors contribute to the development of heart disease, including age, gender and family history.

However, there are many contributing factors which can be controlled, such as diet, smoking habits, lack of physical activity and stress.

Every year, Go Red for Women encourages everyone to wear red on February 2nd to raise awareness for heart disease in women.

Because we believe in advocating for women’s health, Vantage Health Plan is a proud sponsor of Northeast Louisiana Go Red for Women.

Most people aren’t aware that 1 in 3 women in America suffer from a heart disease – that’s almost 50 million women!

At Affinity Health Group, our mission is to keep you from being one of those statistics.

Our experienced cardiologists use the latest technology and medical advances to protect and improve the cardiac health of our patients.

Dr. Alvaro Manrique Dr. Manrique has been specializing in cardiology for over 8 years, and cardiac electrophysiology for 5 years, using advanced techniques to diagnose and treat the electrical activities of the heart. Any irregularity in the heartbeat could be a signal for heart diseases including arrhythmia and heart structural damage. At Affinity Internal Medicine, Dr. Manrique can implant cardiac devices, such as pacemakers and defibrillator implants, to heal these irregularities. With Electrophysiology, Dr. Manrique says, “We can actually fix the electrical problems of your heart, not just 38 FEBRUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

monitor and regulate them.” His best advice for a healthy heart? “If you smoke, stop now and start living a healthy lifestyle.”

Dr. J. Miles Hilbun

Dr. Hilbun diagnoses and treats general heart conditions, such as congenital heart disease (a condition affecting the heart’s structure from birth), coronary artery disease and cardiomyopathy (a disease weakening the heart muscle). His study of Internal Medicine and Interventional Cardiology focus his practice on the structural integrity of the heart as it affects the other organs. Dr. Hilbun specializes in caring for heart abnormalities and structural disorders through surgical interventions. At The Heart Clinic, he takes a whole-body approach that ensures you receive the most comprehensive care possible for your heart.

Dr. Greg Sampognaro

Dr. Sampognaro provides interventional cardiac assistance for patients with congenital heart abnormalities, valve problems and other structural disorders of the heart at Sampognaro Cardiology Clinic. He specializes in the treatment of these conditions using heart stents and catheters to heal heart structure and blood flow.

Dr. Ronald Koepke At The Heart Clinic, Dr. Koepke treats and manages all general heart health issues, including the most common conditions: coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, peripheral artery disease (blockages in blood vessels of the legs and neck) and heart valve problems. According to Dr. Koepke, “Most of these heart problems can be avoided

with a healthy lifestyle and preventive therapies.”

The Vantage Wellness team recommends these two beginning steps that go a long way toward better heart health:

Get active! Exercise helps you to maintain a healthy weight and control diabetes, elevated cholesterol and high blood pressure. Be sure to talk to your doctor about what types of exercise would be right for you.

Eat right! Focus on eating a heart healthy diet by including plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Reduce your intake of saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium and added sugar.

Know the signs of a heart attack and call 911! If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, fast action is key to recovery.

Chest discomfort: Heart attacks often manifest as discomfort, pain or pressure in the center of the chest lasting more than a few minutes or which goes away and comes back.

Discomfort in the upper body: For women, heart attacks often manifest with pain in other areas of the upper body, such as the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach.

Shortness of breath: Inability to breathe may accompany chest pain or be the only symptom.

Other signs: Breaking out in cold sweat, vomiting or feeling nauseated or lightheaded are all potential signs of a heart attack. Women are more likely than men to experience these warning signs.

For more information about what you can do to prevent heart disease, visit the American Heart Association website, heart.org.

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Maraes – A New Era in Hair Color Unsurpassable Nourishment. Intense Protection. Brilliant Color. Now at Rain.

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ARAES OFFERS AN INNOVATIVE ammonia and PPD free permanent oxidation hair coloring system that is specially recommended for guests, who are always on the lookout for cutting-edge treatments for healthy, beautiful hair or for sensitive, easily irritable scalps and those battling allergies. This unique coloring ritual uses precious ingredients, such as Monoi de Tahiti and Beeswax, that protect hair, preventing excessive loss of hydration.

The purity of the color pigments guarantees maximum coverage and color intensity.

Maraes leaves the hair soft, healthy and shiny.

hair against external damages while repairing and deep-conditioning the hair to a healthy shine.

Maraes system offers everyday beauty rituals and infinitely gentle pampering for restoring strength, energy and vitality, a personalized, sensorial experience that instantly meets your individual hair care needs.

Because we know you will love it, Rain is offering a complimentary Maraes Color Upgrade to all color guests in February!

Experience hair shine, health and brilliance like never before!

ANCIENT WISDOM AND MODERN RITUALS

The heart of French Polynesia, with its fragrant islands, colorful flowers, deep blue sea, high volcanic mountains, rain forests, palm and coconut trees is where Maraes’ research starts its wonderful journey into the ancient local traditions…a return to origins, nature and water as the principle element of life and hair health. Ancient beauty rituals are revisited using modern technology to infuse hair with strength, splendor and beauty.

The power of ingredients inspired by nature renowned for their beneficial properties, together with Monoi Oil for sublime hair, makes the coloring process a truly enjoyable experience and gives us a special formula free of aggressive substances.

The key ingredient of the Maraes range is Monoi de Tahiti (certified Organic), a naturally concentrated emollient which penetrates easily into the hair. Helping to re-hydrate the layers of the shaft and to shield

KORIE ROBERTSON’S TAKE ON MARAES

Maraes is Korie Robertson’s hair color of choice. She shared her story and experience with us to bring awareness to others that may be experiencing some of the same things.

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WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO MARAES HAIR COLOR?

“I got a henna tattoo when I was in Africa and Somalia. I loved it for the first few days, and all of a sudden my skin started having a chemical reaction. My henna tattoo had turned into a chemical burn. As I started researching Henna, I found out that Brown Henna is natural, but Black Henna has PPD in it, a known allergen for a lot of people… an allergy that may actually develop over time with exposure. Digging deeper into my research as to avoid all contact with PPD, I saw that most hair color lines have PPD in them, something I have used for years. Even before my Henna experience, I have been on the lookout for products with natural ingredients. After inquiring about coloring

options with my stylist, Blake, he offered Maraes color to me…a hair color that I could still use while avoiding my PPD allergy.”

WHAT WAS YOUR PAST EXPERIENCE WITH HAIR COLOR IN THE PAST?

“I’ve never had a huge reaction to hair color in the past, but every time it would tingle and have a little burning, itchy feel which I just thought was normal. Now I realize that was because of the allergy I had developed. Thankfully, it never got to the point of burning my head, but always a day or two after, I would notice my head tingling and feeling a little itchy.”

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR EXPERIENCE SINCE USING MARAES HAIR COLOR?

“I do not have any tingly or itchy feeling with Maraes. I feel really good knowing that I am using a hair color that is free of so many allergens and has so many natural benefits. Also, I have noticed my hair just seems healthier! It’s smoother, healthier and more moisturized. My hair is naturally dry and pretty weak. I have struggled for years with breakage. Since using Maraes, I have not experienced the breakage I’m used to and I feel like my hair is so much healthier! I am looking forward to having more full, healthier hair. Blake has used Maraes just with my last two color services, but I can already tell a huge difference in the health of my hair. I love that each time, my hair just keeps getting better.”

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RELATIONSHIPS

Meredith’s Musings Today Was Hers |

By Meredith McKinnie

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was only 35 weeks and 3 days. It was 3:45 in the morning, and I was sliding out of bed to head to the bathroom for the 22nd time that evening when I noticed a trail across the sheets. Could I not hold it? How embarrassing. After a bath to clean myself, I noticed it was still trailing down my legs. Husband and I both stared, squinting our eyes in the lamplight, trying to make sense of the unexplained wetness.

It didn’t even occur to us that my water had broken. The doctor had just told me the day before that she was high, that it would be at least another month. On the way to the hospital, I called my mother. It took her a good half-minute to recognize who I was in her slumber. And besides, it wasn’t time for “the call” yet.

Monroe was eerily quiet in that calming way at 4 am. Interstate 20 was wide open, as if expecting us to come barreling through.

Husband kept wiping the sleep out of his eyes and looking over at me. I was calm. I thought the trip was just a precaution, that I would be sent home shortly. After navigating the maze

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of hallways and elevators to get to Labor & Delivery, they put me in a freshly clean room and handed me a gown. I thought it was a lot for someone who wasn’t staying. A nurse came in and checked me, surprisingly one of the more painful experiences of the next few days, and said, “Yep, you’re having a baby.

I can feel her head.” My stomach dropped. I wasn’t ready. Her room wasn’t ready. I had only sorted her clothes through the 3 months stack. I hadn’t even begun the artwork for her quote wall. It was to be the focal point of the room, even if she wouldn’t be able to focus on it for some time. We hadn’t packed a hospital bag. I had only brought a discolored hand towel between my legs to keep myself from flooding on the way over. I still had twenty or so thank you notes from my shower to write.

I had a pre-birth pedicure planned. I never went to that breastfeeding class my mom kept mentioning. I hadn’t completed my paperwork for leave from work. Had I even read enough about what was supposed to happen to me? I kept shuffling in my head all the reasons it couldn’t be time. But as I would

begin to learn, we were starting a journey where I wasn’t in control anymore. Today, she was.

When my parents arrived, my mom stormed into the room with a look of frustration on her face and my baby wreath in her hands. I knew the maze would aggravate her. It made me laugh, that and the fact that she had left my dad behind in the parking garage, because he couldn’t keep up. My parents being “my parents” made the moment feel real. My dad finally strolled in, as he always does regardless of circumstance, ten minutes later, chuckling to himself. The security guard had laughed with my dad about the woman who couldn’t find the button to open the secure doors before him. Dad informed him that was his wife and laughed even harder at the guard’s embarrassment. Dad remarked how cold it was in the room. Mom began peppering the nurse with questions, and thus began our wait for the doctor.

When he arrived after six am, his hair was slightly disheveled. He almost looked like a little boy, but with gray hair and the knowledge to deliver my baby. He was wearing those same green scrubs. I had only seen him once in street clothes. It was at the gas station. I was getting a peach Icee.

I remember hiding behind the aisle, because my sugar test was in two days, and sugar felt wrong in his presence. But today, face-to-face, I waited to hear my fate. He was concerned about her lung development, suggested steroids and magnesium and a 48-hour wait.

But if my blood pressure continued to rise, a C-section may be necessary. My brain froze.

I wanted time to freeze, a few minutes to ponder this information and beg for more.

It’s a coping method of mine. I ask tons of questions to give myself time to think. But I didn’t have time. He wanted an answer, so I said we would wait the 48 hours, give her the best shot at a healthy delivery and avoid the NICU. After my parents left, it was just my husband and I, and the reality of waiting 48 hours in the hospital began to set in. But it was short-lived. One more high blood pressure screening and a C-section was scheduled for noon. I had two hours, and I would never again not be a parent. It may not have been time by my clock, but it was by hers.

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A LIFETIME FILLED WITH Love is a decision they make each day. The lifelong commitments detailed in these stories are choices.

And whether they endured death, career changes, illness or any other valley of life, their relationships became their places of refuge. Oftentimes their commitments only grew stronger when challenged.

When love is a constant action, it intensifies. After decades together, they still laugh, share intimate glances and the love is visible. From humble beginnings, they all excelled in their personal lives, building legacies they’re proud of. These couples show that while marriage is never easy, it’s more than worth it. Respect is the common fabric among them. At times one may have to carry the other, but they don’t keep score. It’s all part of the loving, and it’s just what these lovers do.

ARTICLES BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE & MICHAEL DEVAULT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS

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JoAnn and Glenn Brunson

He calls her the “love of his life.” She claims it was “love at first sight.” And 64 years later, JoAnn and Glenn Brunson serve as a testament to lifelong love, climbing over the mountains and through the valleys of life together.

From the moment they met, no one else existed. And though some said it wouldn’t last, the young couple proved otherwise.

After cross-country moves, loss and the unavoidable shifts of life, they stayed dedicated to one another. They formed their own

example of what love should look like, one that began with sharing, serving as helpmates for each other. Glenn claims he “courted her.” JoAnn insists he never had a choice. They grew up in Bienville Parish about six miles apart and had never seen each other until she saw him across the partition that day and knew exactly what she wanted.

Glenn Brunson’s beginnings were humble, born in 1931, the fourth of seven children with a disabled father and a mother

struggling to make ends meet.

Raised with little, often on welfare, Glenn wanted better and enlisted in the Air Force to help his mother. JoAnn, too, had meager beginnings, though not as extreme as Glenn’s. She remembers picking cotton every summer. Her family had a small plot, and after handling the family crop, she would go pick for the neighbors who would pay her $2 for 100 pounds. JoAnn admits she would go early when the dew was still on the cotton so it would weigh more. She used the money to buy material for clothes. She was one of the few children happy when the schools started serving lunch; no one would notice her biscuit, a sign of having little, next to everyone else’s sandwiches.

In early February of 1954, 18-year-old JoAnn spotted Glenn, five years her senior, walking into the trade school to take his civil service test. She peeked over the wood divider between the two rooms, and thought to herself, “What a fine looking man.”

JoAnn was smitten immediately.

Later when Glenn was “cruising” JoAnn’s high school, which she insists he wasn’t supposed to do, he stopped and talked to JoAnn and her friend. She invited him to her basketball game at Ringgold High School that night. It was February 14, Valentine’s Day, the day Glenn officially asked her out. She doesn’t remember where they went, but rather how she felt.

She met the “sweetest man she has ever known,” and her early inclinations were confirmed.

Glenn continued to come to all of JoAnn’s games that spring, and

by May, the couple was engaged.

Glenn was fresh out of the Air Force, and work was scarce in Louisiana. He decided to go live with a brother in California, and JoAnn didn’t want him going without her. They married the same night as JoAnn’s high school graduation, with many of her classmates tagging along to watch what should have been a small ceremony. Immediately afterward, they climbed with their belongings into a car with another couple and began the cross-country trek to Livermore, California. By August, JoAnn’s mother had become ill, and she returned home with the promise of Glenn following along in October. He surprised her in September, and by December, they were pregnant with their daughter, Dorinda. Glenn got hired at the Chrysler plant in Indianapolis, Indiana, and JoAnne took a job off and on with the Indianapolis School Board.

Times were tough, and money was tight, but they made it work.

After a layoff, Glenn took what would become his permanent job with Bell Telephone, and the couple bought a little house in Plainfield, Indiana. It only had two bedrooms, just 1,200 square feet, but it was right on the creek, and they both loved having a place to call their own.

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Indiana was much like Louisiana, with farmland and flat land. The area featured covered bridges, and tourists frequented the area to see the leaves in the fall.

JoAnn has fond memories of their time there. JoAnn worked with the Indiana Baptist Convention and helped open several Southern Baptist churches throughout the state. Though she missed home, she cried the first 100 miles when they left Indiana in 1962.

They traded in the North for the Deep South, Glenn transferring to Morgan City, Louisiana. The state was booming with the oil industry, and the Brunsons developed an appreciation for Cajun culture, mostly revolving around food. Seafood was the staple, and JoAnn had never even tasted shrimp. Only fish was available back in Ringgold. The couple remembers the telephone company hosting parties with huge tables overflowing with shrimp and crawfish. It was like living in a foreign country, and though their time in Morgan City was short, the experience is memorable. Only a year later, the couple landed in Monroe, Louisiana, and they would live here for the next 50 plus years.

JoAnn recalls Interstate 20 was being built in 1963, and the Brunsons rented a house on Harn Street in Monroe. JoAnn had her eye on the house on the corner of Howard St and insisted they purchase it, when it came up for sale. JoAnn began classes at Northeast Louisiana State College, but became ill her second semester. She had two

miscarriages after Dorinda, and the doctor said she probably wouldn’t get pregnant again.

Nevertheless, John Glenn was born 6 weeks early in February.

He entered the world at only five pounds, but grew up to be a “mighty fine man,” just like his father. He was named after his dad and the astronaut.

JoAnn remembers the astronaut saying once, “To look at this kind of creation out here and not believe in God is impossible.” In 1972, JoAnn began working at Northeast Louisiana University as a secretary and retired in 2002.

Glenn retired from Bell Telephone in 1990, and began what he calls his favorite job as a buggy boy at Albertson’s.

The couple has been members at Parkview Baptist Church since 1976 where Glenn is a deacon. Glenn volunteers with Christian Community Ministries, and JoAnn serves on the Stewardship Committee. They are the proud grandparents of Libby, Luke, Abby, John Glenn Jr. and Ella. And JoAnn still insists Glenn is the “sweetest man she knows.” Glenn genuinely cares for people and is patient with JoAnn, one who admittedly needs it. But most importantly to JoAnn, her husband is Christ-like; “he walks it.” The two complement each other, waiting patiently for the other to speak, evidence of a lifetime of adjustment and compromise. They both feel lucky to have found the other, and over six decades in, it doesn’t get much “sweeter” than that.

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Dub and Schump Jones Young people in love are heartwarming; you can’t help but smile. And while WA (Dub) and Schumpert Jones are both 93 years of age, they’re still two young people at heart. They laugh together, smile at each other’s idiosyncrasies and still light up in the other’s presence.

It’s refreshing to see, especially after 71 years of marriage. The remnants of all those decades together adorn the walls of their home like a museum. A coffee table in their bedroom has a glass top with seven pairs of faded white baby shoes, the pair worn when the children first walked. Graduation tassels frame the toe of each shoe, highlighting each person’s

accomplishments. The billiard room is covered with frames of family pictures, magazine covers, wedding photos and football memorabilia. A giant map in the sunroom is covered in little pegs, not travel destinations, but the locations of their 24 grandchildren and 40 great grandchildren. The legacy these two have built after two teenagers fell in love is overwhelmingly apparent; the stuff stories are made of.

The Jones kept the front steps from the old Ruston High School, where they met at just 13 years old. Schump recalls noticing Dub’s “beautiful blue eyes,” and though Schumpert couldn’t date until she was 16,

the two often found themselves at the same parties and gatherings.

Schumpert was a member of the first graduating class of Ruston High School and Dub, who stayed behind to play football, a part of the second. Schump calls her upbringing “blessed.” The last of four girls, she remembers neighborhood playmates, Saturday picture shows and her dad’s dentist office at the end of West Michigan Avenue, where he practiced for 50 years.

Her mom was the “Red Cross Lady” during World War II, the liaison between servicemen and their families. Dub was the youngest of four boys, and his father died when he was only three years old. A widow during the Depression, his mother made ends meet with boarders until they could no longer afford to pay. He remembers milking cows, having chickens, and though obviously not well off, never really wanting for anything.

Schump attended Louisiana Tech, while Dub went to LSU on a football scholarship before joining the U.S. Navy as a part of the V-12 training program at Tulane.

While apart, both “tested the waters,” so to speak, though seeing each other from time to time when they would return home on breaks. Dub got out of the service in 1946, and the couple married that June in Schump’s backyard. They timed the ceremony around the train that would run by her parent’s house four times a day. The Chicago Cardinals selected Dub as the second pick in the NFL draft that year.

After brief stints with the Miami Seahawks and the Brooklyn Dodgers, Dub landed with the Cleveland Browns where he would play running back and wide receiver from 1948-1955; and

Schump and Dub once got in a fight over a dividing wall in the kitchen. Schump won, thanks to a few tears.

“If you cry, you win.” he played in eight consecutive world championships. With Dub up north from June to January of each year, Schumpert would make the trip, bringing the kids on the years she wasn’t pregnant.

The couple had seven children in 12 years: William Augustus Jr. (Bill), the attorney/ real-life cowboy; Hasson Holt, the family stalwart; Schumpert Cassity, the Thunderbird pilot; Bertram Hays, the NFL player; Benjamin Milton, the bull rider/ preacher; Nancy Ruth, the accountant at Triad; and Thomas Barnes (Tom), president of Triad.

While still playing football, Dub bought the old Ruston Lumber & Supply with his brother Richard.

And after football, he devoted his time to the lumberyard and then later Triad Builders.

But Cleveland came calling again, and Dub returned as an assistant coach in 1962. Dub called Schump his assistant; she even signed two NFL players.

The Browns went to the World Championship game twice while Dub coached in 1964 and 1965. Dub was one of the few coaches who would bring his family to training camp; Bert, who went on to play for the Baltimore Colts, would warm up the quarterbacks as a kid. Dub and Bert have the only father/ son record in the NFL: Bert for 17 consecutive passes, and Dub for six touchdowns in a game. Dub finally retired from football in 1967 and returned to Ruston.

The couple stayed busy after that. Schump was involved in planning and zoning in Ruston and was also a decade-long member of the Chrysanthemum Club. Dub says their yard was covered with the most

beautiful and unique flowers.

Tom took over as president of Triad Builders in 1980, though Dub continued to work for the company. Schump insists, “When baby boy is boss, that’s job security.” They also stayed busy following the children in their sports. All of them are athletic, which Dub insists they got from their mother, a former basketball and softball player.

Schump is tough, perhaps because she had to be. Dub recounts his wife driving alone with seven children to Cleveland and then to Green Bay for a game. He didn’t worry about her; Schump’s not the type you have to worry about. Dub insists, “I married up.” And Schump smiles.

They still live in the Ruston home they built together in 1952, the home to all their memories on the walls. Schump drew up the plans at the time, and the couple disagreed over a divider wall separating the kitchen and living area. Schump won, as she often does thanks to a few tears. She insists, “If you cry, you win.” The house boasts lots of windows and light-colored walls and hardwood floors. Rooms are on different levels, most likely additions over the years to suit the needs of the family.

But there’s an open, welcoming aspect to the couple’s home, much like the couple themselves.

When they speak to one another, it’s with a familiar and intimate tone, a testament to the seven plus decades being good years.

And though Dub claims he married up, Schump calls Dub a “kind, compassionate, honest man,” who still, “loves her in spite of her faults.” The key to the longevity of their relationship is simple; leaving is not an option.

They continue to love each other through it all. He calls her Mama, and insists she come along as he points out all the remnants of their life together, a life they’re both quite proud of.

It’s clear from every inch of wall covered, Schump and Dub want reminders of every moment. Life has been just that good.

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that I’d really like to marry this guy, but that he wasn’t going to ask me,” she says. “So I kept putting it off. Finally, I couldn’t anymore. I said, ‘If you’re not going to ask me to marry you, then I’m going to ask you to marry me.’ And guess what? He said ‘yes.’”

“We’re both down-toearth type people, and that’s helped us have a successful marriage.

And a little music and champagne doesn’t hurt, either.”

Alpha and John Spence

John Spence’s life starts with a college dormitory window. Or at least the part that matters starts there.

By the time John Spence graduated high school, he knew he wanted to see more of the world than little Dyerburg, Tennessee could offer. College at Murray State in Kentucky led to medical school at the University of Tennessee. That’s when he knew he had to leave home.

“In Tennessee, internships paid $25 a month, and you’d work your heart out,” he says. When he thought about it, his wanderlust wasn’t satiated yet, and Louisiana was offering $100 a month for the same internship. “That’s when I went to Confederate Medical Center in Shreveport.”

For Alpha Gremillion, going to Shreveport for her nursing rotations was the natural next step in a world where women didn’t tend to stray too far from home. It was 1955, after all, and girls from Bunkie had few opportunities to travel “far away” without being married.

“We were both naïve, young, and it was just one of those things that happened,” John says. “We met each other in an operating room. And she fell in love with me.”

Alpha laughs at that account, though she admits it’s not too far removed from truth. John was a young, bold doctor, and she was a young, enthusiastic nurse, and theirs was a good match.

“He called me at the nurse’s

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dorm and asked me to go out with him,” she says. “And, I think, I said ‘yes.’”

Courtship followed. Nurses lived in a dorm across the courtyard from the interns’ housing on the 9th floor of the hospital. John couldn’t see enough of Alpha on their dates and at work, it seems. Alpha reveals he had a workaround.

“While he was on the 9th floor of the interns’ quarters, he could tell me where to stand, and then he could see me in the nurses’ dorm,” she says. This became their pattern for a year.

They saw one another fleetingly at work, and then they had frequent dates. In between, their interludes through the window, waving.

By early 1956, after a year of dating, Alpha had had enough.

They’d been dating for almost a year. She was headed into the end of her rotations, his internship was coming to a close, and Alpha knew something had to change.

“I kept thinking to myself

Two months later, John and Alpha Spence left for what would prove to be the biggest adventure of their lives John had accepted a commission in the U.S. Navy, and a hospital in Sasebo, Japan, needed his services.

“We had married just two months earlier, and we spent our honeymoon in Japan for two years,” she says. “We learned to live in Japan.”

Living on a Navy base in Japan gave the young family precisely the training ground they’d need to build a foundation for a long life together. They learned to live well, but live within their means, because they didn’t have much of a choice, as Alpha explains.

“Japan was a wonderful place for us to become acquainted with living together and making plans,” Alpha says. “That’s where we started our lives. We learned how to live hard, because everything was bare necessities in Japan. They were still recovering from the war.”

Not long after their arrival in Sasebo, Alpha discovered she was pregnant. A few months later, their first son – John W. Junior – was born. The following year, they returned to the United States where John accepted a residency in anesthesia at St. Christopher’s Children’s Hospital – back in Tennessee. Still in the Navy, they had the opportunity to travel

around – Virginia was one stop, just outside of D.C. – before John separated from the service as a Commander.

Opportunities abounded for the Spences and their young family. But on a visit to Monroe, Louisiana, they knew they’d found home. He was offered what Alpha calls “a good position” in the area, and she was familiar enough with Louisiana to make a good go at a life here.

Sixty-one years after they married, and more than forty years in Louisiana, they’re pretty sure they made the right decision, both in marriage and in the place they call home.

When they first arrived, Alpha and John lived in a house in the professional neighborhood around the university campus.

Eventually, though, their children and their lives outgrew that house. That’s when Alpha built a house on Bayou DeSiard in the newly established River Oaks community. And make no mistake, Alpha built the house.

“She was our only contractor,” John says. Alpha worked with subcontractors to design a floorplan that worked for their family, that invited the nature they’d both come to love into the house. There are windows in every room that open onto the couple’s

natural cove on the bayou. The backyard is a sanctuary for family, visitors and more than a little wildlife.

Over the decades, John and Alpha have both given a lot of thought to what makes theirs a happy, productive marriage.

The first secret is that John stayed out of Alpha’s way when it came to running the home – likening his bride to the CEO of their home.

“The main thing I always tell young people, about the secret to marriage, is this: I’ll make the living if you’ll make life worth living when I come home,” John says. On some levels, John’s approach seems almost archaically out of step with the times. Yet, on another level, it’s clear what making life worth living at home means to him. “You’ve got to marry almost a perfect woman, for one, and she was almost perfect.”

Alpha adds consideration, adaptation and respect for one another are vital ingredients, and that’s something that takes a little time to figure out. An avid duck hunter, John spends many weekends at the family’s duck camp with his sons – an arrangement that Alpha says she is “perfectly happy with,” because it gives her many weekends free to do what she pleases in the house and out of it. Space, both shared and personal, is an important component.

And the distance on those hunting weekends provides a bit of excitement when, at last, he returns home.

“We’re both downto-earth type people, and that’s helped us be a successful marriage,” John says, adding quickly.

“And a little music and champagne doesn’t hurt, either.”

Without missing a step, Alpha chimes in.

“And we’ve had a lot of both!”

Kathi and Terry Barnhill The Barnhills believe in romance. They practice loving each other every day. Terry has never stopped courting her, and claims marrying Kathi was his finest decision. Time has only made the two more grateful for each other and the family they’ve built.

Losing a child and battling cancer cemented their bond, making them stronger as a family. Kathi insists life is “high highs and then really low times,” but the hard moments fuse you together, remind you what you have, force you to cling to one another and rely on faith.

The Barnhills are believers. They

believe in God, they believe in each other, and they believe life is a blessing, meant to be lived.

They don’t shy away from change.

They recognize the seasons in life and adapt accordingly. Terry’s spontaneity is one of the aspects Kathi loves about her husband, insisting he “always lands on his feet.” Terry says Kathi is “too good for me. I’ve always felt that way.”

The appreciation of each other is evident, from the private jokes, sly smiles exchanged and irrepressible laughter. The Barnhills are still smitten, and they aren’t afraid to show it.

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Kathi grew up north of Denver in Erie, Colorado. The eighth child of nine children, she often felt “lost in the shuffle.”

She was raised on a farm in a one-bedroom house with an outhouse, made harder with the snowy winters. Although her family didn’t have much, there was always an abundance of love in their home. She graduated high school in 1967, and became a stewardess, a coveted position in 1967. The requirements were strict; the girls had to be groomed, girdles in place, nails polished, eyebrows plucked, regular weigh-ins, but Kathi didn’t mind.

The lure of freedom and travel was exciting, and it got her off the farm.

Terry was born in Meridian, Mississippi, the middle child of three boys. When his parents divorced, Terry moved with his mom to Jackson, Mississippi, changing high schools his senior year. In 1968, he enlisted in the U.S. National Guard, where he served for six years. He was sent to Denver to train as an airman, and three months into a sixmonth stay, he saw Kathi.

Kathi’s sister had met her husband at the bar across the street from the military base and insisted Kathi go. Terry and his friend, Leone, missed the bus to go downtown that night and

instead walked across the street to the same bar called the 7/11.

When they asked Kathi and her friend if they could sit with them, Leone took the spot next to Kathi. The foursome rode around that night in Kathi’s mint green Volkswagen Bug, and toward the end of the evening, Terry “made his move,” slipping his arm around Kathi’s shoulders.

She helped Terry move back to Mississippi after he completed his training, though Terry was determined to get back to Kathi and transferred to Denver a year later. The couple married July 4, 1970, and Kathi says Terry “lost his independence.” It was a day “hotter than blue-blazing,” Kathi insists. A heat wave had come through Colorado, and Terry actually fainted at the rehearsal.

Two years later, Terry graduated from college and took a job with Xerox.

Terry randomly came home one day and told Kathi he felt the Lord wanted them to move back down south. They loaded up a U-Haul truck with a Toyota Celica in the back surrounded by all their belongings and decided they would drive “until it felt like home.” They attacked the country wide open, with no job prospect or house or destination.

They drove through Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, down the

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West Coast of Florida, through the Everglades to Key West and then back up the East Coast of Florida.

They stopped in Monroe to say hi to a couple they’d met on a trip to Aspen, fell in love with the city and the people and decided Monroe would be their home.

Terry eventually got a job with Merrill Lynch where he worked for 29 years, and just retired five years ago. Kathi gave birth to three children, April and Julia, and then their son, Jeremy. Terry insists the “children turned out well because of Kathi.” Saturdays were spent with Dad, where each kid got an Icee and a candy bar.

The Barnhills always had a hot tub and would corral the children in there for family talks. They spent many days on the “Barney Five,” their party barge which they would cruise up and down the Ouachita River. Family time was important, and the kids saw that. Daughter Julia says, “It is not lost on me how blessed I am to have two parents who have loved each other unconditionally my whole life.”

In 2002, their son Jeremy was killed in a car accident at the age of 17. Kathi claims each member of the family had to “grieve in our own way,” but it brought the family closer together. Rather than get angry about the years Jeremy missed, the Barnhills feel blessed

for the 17 years he had, a reminder of “how faithful God is.” April and her husband, Adams, started The Jeremy Barnhill Foundation the year after Jeremy’s death.

The proceeds send young people on mission trips and fund youth camps, experiences Jeremy loved.

Terry and Kathi are KK and Papa (grandparents) to Addie and Ella who currently live right across the water with April and Adams.

Julia lives with her husband, Luke, in Start, Louisiana and just gave birth to their grandson in September, Jeremiah John, Jeremy’s namesake.

When Kathi was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago, she claims Terry, “enveloped me, took hold of me and walked me through it.” After ten months of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, the disease made her frail, and Terry admits it made him “think about mortality.” He became more sensitive. Pondering what he might lose reminded him what he had. The couple has 40 acres in Calhoun, and on nights alone there, he would miss Kathi. He would sit surrounded by the couple’s dachshunds and write poems for his bride. Kathi says the words are “heartfelt, reflective, loving and sweet,” just like her husband. Life is “more interesting with Terry.” She loves how “rock solid” he is, yet with an adventurous spirit. The couple sees marriage as a long-term contract, and when times are hard, Terry says you “love each other anyway.”

Kathi has always followed her husband, whether it is across the country or down the aisle.

Now the couple is entering their next “season of life,” building a smaller house on the land in Calhoun. Kathi can’t believe she is returning to the country.

The hardships have made them realize how blessed they truly are, so in a way, they were blessings.

One of the poems Terry wrote for his wife is called “The Good Ole Days.” Perhaps that’s what they’re after with this move, a simpler home where they will continue to love and support one another, but more wide open space to explore together.

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I REMEMBER husbands, love your wives a r t i cl e by PAUL L I PE

I REMEMBER the phone call from Dr. Kenneth McDonald, our family pudding and cracker candy! (If BayouLife ever needs a substitute for physician. It was a call that produced immediate anxiety. Understand Granny O’Neal (page 64), I would be happy to fill in). No one was more that it is not unusual for Dr. McDonald to call me; he calls fairly often. amazed by my performance than was I! I confess that I actually enjoyed You see, he is preparing to teach the Gospel of John to one of our myself and was modestly pretty proud of my accomplishments!

I could tell that my spouse was Adult Sunday School classes, and enjoying this Ritz-level care and he uses me as sort of a consultant attention. She even boasted to her in his preparation. As a result, we friends about her amazing husband. talk frequently on the phone. But She spoke these words of praise the phone call mentioned above in my hearing – I think that was was different, because that time designed to assure that I would he asked if my wife, Linda, was continue to execute my duties! She there. What made this problematic had learned what most women know was that my wife had just had her – a few well-chosen words of praise regular check-up, and my fear was will cause a man to develop a hernia that the check-up had produced trying to demonstrate that those some concern in his mind. That words are, in fact, a true assessment fear was confirmed when he told of his talent and character. There are Linda that a suspicious lesion had no hernias yet, but there have been appeared on the scan and that it some pretty tired bones! needed immediate attention.

The truth is, though, as any We quickly contacted our husband worth his salt will attest, daughter, Mary Linda, who is a I did not fulfill my responsibilities practicing radiologist in Jackson, because I was looking for praise, but Mississippi. She scheduled a needle “IF WE GIVE IT OUR BEST TRY, THE because I love and care about the one biopsy for the next day, at which God has given to be my wife – she time she confirmed the initial KEEPING OF THE COMMAND WILL is my Valentine! Her words of thanks suspicion. Then she contacted two EVENTUALLY BECOME A THING OF were appreciated, but I would have surgeons who would perform the PLEASURE FOR US.” done my best even if she had been necessary procedures and arranged consultations with them. Everything was on fast-track, and the surgery grumpy like her husband is on occasion. It is like the Lord says in Ephesians 5:25 – “Husbands, love your wives.” took place a few days later.

Many of you probably have discovered this truth: even though

The original pathology report, given at the time of the operation, was good – there was no evidence of cancer in the lymph nodes or in God’s command may sometimes be difficult and hard to accomplish, the tissue surrounding the lesion. A subsequent, and more detailed if we give it our best try, the keeping of the command will eventually pathological report, sustained the first account. Our fears subsided become a thing of pleasure for us.

It was that way with me; I was terribly afraid that I would make a considerably, and our hearts were filled with gratitude!

However, the nature of her surgery put severe limitations of Linda’s royal mess of things. But by God’s grace, I plunged in – and my wife activities – most of her normal actions were beyond the scope of her survived! And I had fun taking care of her. surgery-reduced capacity. This meant that someone else would have to I enjoyed my role of care-giver so much that I contemplated continuing my service even after Linda recovers to the point that she take over those duties. That “someone” turned out to be me!

I surprised myself, and especially Linda, by doing things that could resume most of her normal responsibilities. But then I decided were foreign to my abilities. I learned to do the laundry, operate that would be unfair for I would be robbing Linda of her opportunities the dishwasher, change bandages, tend the post-surgery drains and to show her love to her Valentine! So, my Dear, get well soon! cook something besides sausage, eggs and grits! I even made banana 52 FEBRUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

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Bayou Pages

NIGHTSTANDS & COFFEE TABLES

Three Books to Inspire Love, Passion and Patience in Your Romance

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obody ever said love was pretty or perfect. For much of the 20th Century, three partnerships seemed to help Americans believe that it could be. Yet, in each of those pairings, the veneer of passion and romance concealed from view many of the same challenges “normal” people confront in their relationships every day.

Now almost 20 years into the new century – and more than 40 years removed from these storybook affairs, biographers are taking another look at the inner lives of the most intriguing romantic partnerships. And they’re finding even more reason to celebrate the relationships of these American couples.

Ironically, only one of these couples “went the distance” – and that couple never bothered to tie the knot. For this Valentine’s Day, BayouLife dives into the lives and loves of Hepburn and Tracy, DiMaggio and Monroe, and Taylor and Burton, because, as we’re learning, it turns out they were normal people after all.

Joe and Marilyn: Legends in Love

By C. David Heymann

When it comes to tumultuous love, there are few icons who come close to reaching the level of Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio. They met in late 1953 – and married and divorced in 1954, after just nine months of turbulent heartbreak. Though brief, this marriage captured the imaginations of the nation. Yet hidden behind the turmoil is a story that has remained mostly concealed – until now.

C. David Heymann is known for his richly detailed portraits of his subjects, and Joe and 54 FEBRUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

REVIEWS BY MICHAEL DEVAULT Marilyn is no exception. Through extensive research and hundreds of interviews with the people who knew Joe and Marilyn the best – their closest friends and family members – Heymann fills in the gaps of their brief marriage and takes readers on the lifelong emotional partnership they forged in failure.

While everyone knows the big picture details – DiMaggio had roses delivered to her grave every week for more than 20 years, for example – what many don’t know is they spoke daily from the time they separated until the day she died. And they seriously considered reconciliation along the way. This is the heartbreaking story Heymann captures.

Furious Love: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and the Marriage of the Century

By Sam Kashner and Nancy Schoenberger When Richard Burton decided to take Elizabeth Taylor off the market, he did so with a 33-carat, nearly flawless diamond ring. Less than a year later, he’d drop another $3 million on the pear-shaped Annenburg Diamond, weighing in at a whopping 66 carats. But his lavish taste in jewels for his love was bested only by the excess with which Hollywood’s most glamorous couple lived their often combative marriage – twice, in fact.

This is the story Sam Kashner and Nancy Schoenberger tell in Furious Love: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and the Marriage of the Century, a deeply researched and remarkably intimate portrait of one of the most famous celebrity couplings in history. Their wedding was so lavish. It wouldn’t be rivaled until Prince Charles wed Lady Dianna Spencer in 1981,

and even then, many believed the affair at Westminster paled in comparison.

Yet, it wasn’t all glitz and jewels. Theirs was a real love powered (and ultimately undermined) by an intense passion, which Kashner and Schoenberger reveal through hundreds of private letters, journals and intimate interviews with Taylor herself. A story for the ages, Furious Love is a must-read for Taylor-Burton fans.

An Affair to Remember: The Remarkable Love Story of Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy

By Christopher Andersen

They met on a movie set, fell in love in their dressing rooms, and for more than 25 years, lived together in her family’s home – Hollywood’s most private, reclusive love affair. For much of their romance, Hepburn refused to speak of their relationship publicly, and it wasn’t until his death left her bereft that the depth of their love began to fully be known.

Christopher Andersen takes readers inside Hepburn and Tracy in An Affair to Remember: The Remarkable Love Story of Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy. Through never-before-shared mementos, letters and interviews, Andersen reconstructs this relationship, which always played out behind the scenes of their long series of popular movies.

As faithful as they were unconventional, Hepburn and Tracy never married. In fact, they lived together with her ex-husband and several other friends and family in her sprawling estate.

All the while, they remained true to one another until the very end.

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Christmas Social On Thursday, December 14, Dr. Mickel and his staff hosted a Christmas social at Genusa’s Restaurant in Monroe. Guests mixed and mingled, while they enjoyed appetizers and drinks. Representatives from Allergan, Coolsculpting and Fraxel were on hand to answer any questions and provide information on their procedures. Some lucky guests even received door prizes. Dr. Mickel hosts this event every year to thank his patients and enjoy a get together during the holiday season.

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On the BayouScene 1K im Duke and Kim Dietrich 2 Lesley Bush and Ann Young 3 Suzanne Burkhalter and Hope McLemore 4 Jessie Poole, Kay Butler and Rachel Spires 5A njel Liles and Tricia Blades 6 Natalie Todd, Emily Cassis and Leslie Bush 7 Gerri Ellis and Jan Rainey 8 Anne Marie Carroll and Dr. Timothy Mickel 9 Suzanne Burkhalter and Bailie Conn 10 Marcia Donald and Becky Bailey 11 T ami Pennebaker and Lori Spence 12 Carrie Siudy and Hope McLemore

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article by Kenny Covington

FISHING

With Kenny

Hot Baits for Cold Water

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any years ago, while winter time fishing with my father on Finch Lake, looked at the ice that had formed on the water’s edge and asked if he thought the bass would hit a spinnerbait. “Probably not,” was his reply, “but if you want to throw one I have one you can use.”

Being the spinnerbait fanatic that I was, I quickly tied one on.

The “rules” of wintertime fishing weren’t taken into consideration, because I was too young to know them. I was getting to throw a bait that I loved to throw and you know what? I caught fish on it, too.

Winter time? Cold shallow water? It didn’t matter to me back then and all these years later, it didn’t matter to the fish either.

When reading the fishing periodicals, they will give you the opinion that in order to catch winter time fish a fisherperson will have to scale down their lures, slow down their presentations and fish the deeper areas of their favorite lakes. While those scenarios can put fish in your livewell, it’s not the only way to catch fish when the water and air temperatures are really cold.

Through the years and through a lot of trial and error I have learned that not all fish go deep when the water and air temperatures get below 40 degrees. Shallow water fish, 1 to 8 feet, can still be caught throughout the cold water months. It takes a simple mind adjustment, a little patience and the right choice of lure.

There are five moving baits that I prefer to use this time of year and they are: Rat L Trap, a Shad Rap, a single Colorado bladed Spinnerbait, a suspending jerkbait and a Chatterbait. While each lure may not be a bottom bouncer, I can still work the various depths and be versatile with my presentations.

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The body of water and its water color are the next things you want to consider. Are you fishing a cypress tree dominated lake like the many small oxbows in our area? Are you fishing a clear water lake such as Caney or Claiborne? Is there grass present? Several factors come into play, but there are ways to make your decisions easier.

If I am fishing a stained water situation, my first choice would be the single bladed spinnerbait with a chatterbait being a close second.

These lures push water even when being retrieved slowly, which enables the fish to find them. In lakes with grass, I would choose the chatterbait style, because it comes through grass much easier.

When fishing clear water lakes, I would choose the shad rap and the suspending jerkbait. Clear water bass often feed on sight, so you don’t want to overpower the fish by throwing something that doesn’t seem natural to them. The tight wiggle of the shad rap in clear cold water is a proven fish catcher, and the suspending jerkbait is deadly as well.

A Rat L Trap is a lure that works in several instances, regardless of where you fish and is probably the best search bait of all. You can cover a lot of water with it, until you find an area that has fish in it. You may not catch them all on a Trap, but often times this is the lure to find them.

Another thing I have learned is not to get too caught up on lure colors. When it comes to the Rat L Trap style baits and Shad Raps, shad patterns tend to work better until spring is just around the corner, and then crawfish colors tend to be better producers. This being said, one of the best colors in our area regardless of clear, stained or muddy water is firetiger.

One good tip is to pay attention to the fish you catch. Often times, looking in a bass mouth will give you a clue as to what they are primarily feeding on. If you see the pinchers of a crawfish protruding from his gullet, then you will know the fish are on a crawfish bite, or maybe it is the tail of a big bream. Whatever the case may be, adjust your colors accordingly.

When it comes to a spinnerbait the best choice is usually a single blade style. My two favorites are a 3/8 with a #4 or ½ once with a #5 single gold Colorado blade with a chartreuse/white skirt.

Both combinations work, with the 3/8 version being my first choice in stained water and the ½ version for muddier water applications.

When throwing a chatterbait, 95% of the time I throw black/blue.

Suspending jerkbaits are usually more about the presentation than they are the color of the lure, but here are a couple of things to consider. If the water is clear and you have high skies, use a more transparent color, such as ghost minnow. If the water is clear and you have cloud cover, a base white bait tends to work better. The thing to remember about the jerkbait is the cadence and how long do you pause between twitches of the lure. Experiment until you find the retrieve that works.

The only thing I tweak this time of year is line sizes. I tend to use smaller line sizes, such as 8-12 lb. test on jerkbaits and shad raps, but I stick with 15-20 lb. on the spinnerbait, both in monofilament. I admit not being a fan of this type of line, but for the Traps and chatterbaits I like to use 15 lb. fluorocarbon for no other reason than I just seem to get more bites.

Well, it looks like I have run out of space for another month. Just remember, before you give up on your favorite lake this winter, give the shallow water a try, it may just surprise you! Please be careful; catch one for me; see you next month!

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BAYOUOUTDOORS

FOR THE LOVE OF

DOGS article and photo by Dan Chason

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doubt there are many of us who don’t have memories of that special four legged family member that we love or loved. I am no different. I remember as a kid, my Dad always talked about one special animal that he remembered fondly. His name was Buster and was memorable to my Dad due to his fondness for treeing squirrels. But the one dog that Dad and I shared was a black lab by the name of Smokey. I remember as a child, Smokey could not bear for us to load up to go fishing and leave him at home. Many a time, we would arrive at the lake or pond, only to see Smokey had followed us and was sitting on the bank. That didn’t last long, as sooner or later, he was swimming out to the boat, and we all got wet letting him climb aboard. Smokey made the local paper in Meridian, Mississippi, where my Dad was the pastor of the Central Nazarene Church. You see, Smokey was a thief. He would go to neighborhood houses and steal the dog pans. He would not eat the food there, but rather would gently carry the entire pan back to our house, where he would eat his stolen grub. At times, there would be upwards of 10 pans a week that landed at the preacher’s house. The article showed my Dad pointing his finger at Smokey saying, “Bad Dog.” It was quite humorous as the preacher housed the biggest thief in town.

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One of the first dogs that I can say was mine was a lemon beagle that I named “King.” Everywhere I went, King went with me. He could not hunt a biscuit in a kitchen, but I loved him. He would go to the woods with me, but he was pretty much a lap hound. I always loved beagles, but I found out quickly that the smartest, most versatile dog for me was a Labrador retriever.

I was grown with children, when I bought my first labs. There was a classified ad for a “working pair” of black labs. The owners were moving, and I made the deal to bring them home. I was instantly taken with the female named Anna and the greying black male named Ranger. Ranger was an AKC reject. In AKC trials, the lab must mark the bird and run a straight line to the mark, sit on command if the whistle blows and follow hand signals to where the bird is that needs to be retrieved. Ranger didn’t like straight lines. He trusted his nose and instinctively, would go straight down wind and track the mark back and retrieve. He would obey whistle and hand commands, but if you wanted a straight out and straight back retrieve, he was not your dog. One thing I learned about Ranger was that he was a hunter.

He was not just a retrieving machine and was the primary reason I stopped worrying about “papers” and how my dog worked according to someone else’s standards.

Anna was a big lab. She weighed over 80 pounds and thought she was still a puppy. She was block headed and jet black. The one thing everyone knew is that Anna had one master. If she was in the truck and there were ducks on a lanyard, those were her ducks. No one but my son, Andy or me could reach in without a growl. Anna thought her place in life was in my recliner. If you opened a door to the house and said, “Kennel,” she would crash straight into the recliner, always leaving me room to join her. She would lay there for hours watching TV, while I scratched her ear. She was a great Mama dog, and I raised some exceptional pups that came from Ranger and her.

One day I received a call from a man who asked if I still trained labs. I told him I pretty much just trained my own. He then said, “I’ve got a high blooded lab I bought for my son. My son went to the Navy ,and I can’t do anything with this dog. If you want him, I will give him to you. It’s a shame this dog isn’t hunting.” I drove over and soon met what soon became the replacement for Ranger. His name was Zack, and he was a handful. Long story short, Zack and I finally bonded and spent years together in the blind with many memorable hunts. He was a beautiful animal but like most labs took some special attention and constant discipline to keep in in line.

I got out of the lab business, when I lost my lease in Little Missouri. I lost interest in pit blinds and pretty much duck hunting and concentrated on fishing. That was until the day I met my current dog, Buddy.

I won’t go into specifics on how I got Buddy, but let’s just say he was in need of attention. Buddy came home with me against the desires of my wife. I just knew the trip would be short term, as Michele had some bad experiences with Labs. However, one day I was sitting in the house as she sat outside on the carport. Buddy sat beside her and when she started rubbing his head, I knew he had a home. I noticed that Buddy would sit on my carport and was fascinated with squirrels.

He was 2 years old and would watch squirrels for hours. He would still work on bumpers and commands, but his passion was squirrels. I had only seen one other Lab squirrel dog but decided to see if I could train Buddy. That was 5 years ago, and to this day I have never seen a dog love to squirrel hunt like he does. Buddy has become a valued family member and hunting partner. And as we come full circle, I now have Rowdy, who is Buddy’s 2-month-old son. Many memories to make and many memories to ponder with the wonderful times with our four legged friends.

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recipe by Evelyn O’Neal photo by Martin G Meyers

1 box of dark chocolate fudge cake mix 1 package (4 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1/2 cup water 4 eggs 1 cup sour cream 1 bar (4 oz) sweet chocolate, grated 1 1/2 cups miniature semisweet chocolate chips

holic Cake Choco

• Mix first 4 ingredients well • Add eggs one at a time, beating after each • Blend in sour cream • Stir in grated chocolate and chocolate chips • Preheat oven to 350 degrees • Grease and flower two 8-inch pans • Divide batter and bake 4050 minutes • Check doneness with toothpick • Cool completely

Coco-Nut Chocolate Filling 2 tables cornstarch 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/8 tsp salt 1/2 cup water 1 tables butter 1 sq. 1 oz. semisweet chocolate 1 1/2 c flaked coconut 1 cup chopped pecans • C ombine first four ingredients in saucepan and cook on medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly • Remove from heat and stir in butter and chocolate until melted • Cool slightly • Stir in coconut and pecans

Fudge Icing 2 cups granulated sugar 1/4 cup plus 2 tables cocoa 1/2 cup butter on margarine 1/2 cup milk 1 tables light corn syrup 1 tsp vanilla * Roses made with fondant

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• C ombine sugar and cocoa in small sauce pan, mixing well • Add butter, milk and corn syrup • Bring to a boil and boil 2 minutes, stirring constantly • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla • Cool 5 minutes • B eat at medium speed with mixer until thick enough to spread • Spread filling on top of one layer • Place

second layer on top, frost sides and top with icing

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A Gathering of Gifts and Gardening Junior League of Monroe Presents Spring Market 2018

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PRING IS IN THE AIR, WHICH MEANS THE JUNIOR League of Monroe’s Spring Market is on its way! This year celebrates the 20th anniversary of Spring Market sponsored by Origin Bank. Friday, March 23, 2018, the Market opens at 9:00 a.m. with the classic event, “Shop ‘Til You Drop!”, sponsored by The Mulhearn Corporation, LLC. This exclusive event is $30.00 a ticket and features a champagne brunch catered by The Coffee Bean, with entertainment by Rod Allen Payne, door prizes and extended shopping until 5:00 p.m. General shopping is open to the public on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Spring Market’s signature event, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun!”, is sponsored by Progressive Bank and kicks off at 6:00 p.m.

Friday evening. It includes catering by Thurman’s Food Factory, entertainment by Mike McKenzie, door prizes, preferred shopping and, of course, everyone’s favorite “Market-Ritas.” Tickets for this event are $40.

On Saturday, the Market is open for general shopping at 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.

General shopping tickets are $6 in advance, and $8 at the door.

Please note that no strollers are allowed during any Spring Market event, due to space constraints and crowd control.

The children’s event this year will be our 1st annual Spring Tea, sponsored by Jim Taylor Chevrolet. This is a special time for the whole family to enjoy! This event features a light breakfast and tea time, character appearances for boys and girls and children’s art activities. Albritton Photography will be present to take portraits in an adorable Spring setting. Portrait packages will be available for purchase. This event takes place on Saturday, March 24 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Tickets are available for $20 per family and includes one general shopping pass that can be used on Saturday, March 24. The Junior League’s Provisional Member class of 2017-2018 is taking pride in hosting this event.

Each year, the Junior League of Monroe features a raffle for Spring Market as a way to increase fundraising efforts. This year you could win the chance to Design Your Dream Vacation! The Junior League of Monroe has teamed up with The Travel Company

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to offer a complete prize packet which includes: a $5,000 travel voucher, $1,000 spending cash, a luggage set, a prize gift basket and a $500 gift certificate to Delta Vacations. Tickets are only $20. Money raised by the Junior League of Monroe strictly stays in Ouachita Parish and supports various activities throughout the community! Don’t miss this chance to help support our local community by purchasing a ticket to be entered to win a dream vacation! The winner will be announced toward the close of Market on Sunday, March 25.

The Junior League of Monroe is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Since 1930, members have devoted countless volunteer hours to meet the needs of the people and organizations of our community. Spring Market serves as one of the major fundraisers for the Junior League of Monroe.

• “Tools and Literacy for Children (TLC)” is a community outreach program that addresses the overall needs of at-risk children and families and focuses on the physical, emotional and educational needs of a selected area elementary school and students.

• “Education Task Force” is a committee committed to helping education in our community. We give grants to area teachers and help sponsor the area scholars’ banquet.

• This only names a few of the outreach programs that are operated through the Junior League of Monroe, giving purpose to your purchase of a ticket.

Tickets for all Spring Market activities can be purchased from a member or by visiting the League House, located at 2811 Cameron Street in Monroe, from 8:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Please plan to attend Spring Market’s Gathering of Gifts and Gardening at the Monroe Civic Center from March 23-25, 2018. The Junior League of Monroe looks forward to seeing you at the Market!

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B AYOUKID Z

MAKING MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME Creating Moments of Sheer Joy and Excitement with Your Family article by Cindy G. Foust

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reetings, BayouLife community, as I sit by the cozy fire, enjoying my coffee and my beautiful snow-kissed backyard. Yes, the proverbial “southern snow storm” has hit the region and shut the Twin Cities down for roughly two days. I’m telling you what, Facebook gave me so much entertainment as I watched the sheer pandemonium of people fretting and worrying about not having enough bread to last them for one whole day. Comments like “Walmart is completely out of bread” and “Don’t go to Walmart if you need any staples, because they are out of everything!” truly gave me some laughout-loud moments. I’m not judging friends, honestly, but if we lived in Petticoat Junction or perhaps with Laura Ingalls Wilder on the “Prairie,” I might could understand the panicstricken state of euphoria that had paralyzed Facebook, but friends, are you telling me there are those of you out there who don’t have enough “reserves” for one day? I’m pretty sure I have enough rations to make an egg “santwitch” or a big bowl of popcorn…anything to preserve life and limb for one day. Am I right?

Despite the fretting and stewing about starvation and the like, I did, however, love all the snow songs and snow prayers and snow dances…it made my entire evening very entertaining as I would read post after post after post to my family.

By the way, if you have to be reminded to bring in your pets when it’s 12° outside, then you are dead to me. Thankfully, our neighbor has a little barn for Glen, our neighborhood pet donkey, or I would have been trying to figure out a way to get him in my garage. But alas, much to the delight of my fellow Facebookians (present company included) it finally started to snow about 2:00 a.m.

The snow dances worked! Praise the Lord! It snowed and it snowed and it snowed…and it kind of felt like we were in Vail or Aspen for just a short time. The next morning, the whole world around us was white, sparkly and beautiful. I’m going to tell you what readers, the whole snow vibe just sent me back to those hallowed childhood days that I

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frequently write about, when life was simple and we actually made snow angels and homemade snow ice cream; where we built forts and amassed an arsenal of snowballs that would rival the ammunition at Fort Polk; and we built snowmen that looked like Frosty, short of a having a corncob pipe, because who in the ding dong knows what that is anyway?

Gosh, those were the days, days I reminisce about more and more as I get older. As a matter of fact, I was looking out my kitchen window, watching my neighbor drag his kids on an inner tube through the pasture behind his Polaris Ranger, and it took me back to when my dad pulled us behind our 3-wheeler on a piece of black tarp (we weren’t too sophisticated out on Ollie Caples).

I kept thinking how nice it would be to just go back to that time...to those days. So I poured me another cup of coffee and plopped down in my big comfy chair and pulled up my Facebook. And would you like to guess what I saw? I think it might actually have been a time warp…because post after post after post was families spending time in the snow…together. It was still pretty early, and even then, kids were already outside, parents were building snowmen with their children, snow angels were everywhere, people were already making homemade snow ice cream and snowballs were flying through the air, everywhere.

This motivated me to step out on my back patio and my good friend and neighbor, distinguished banker and amazing rap dancer, David Cole, was actually building a snowman, all by himself. You heard me right, his kids had been out earlier and ditched him for their warmer, cozier fireplace, but David, being a kind of kid at heart himself, stayed the course. All down my street, kids were playing, parents were participating in the frolic and it truly looked like a Norman Rockwell painting.

Back on Facebook, I spent most of the morning enjoying this social media outlet for what it was originally created for: a way to enjoy your

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A. ALDEN’S MEMO

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fter the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s nice to take a moment to reflect on the past year and on the love we share for those closest to us. As John and I are about to welcome our first child into this world, I wanted to write a simple “love letter” to our baby girl that she can treasure for years to come. Happy Valentine’s Day, and may we all remember to shower our family and friends with love this year.

Atlanta and Dallas based fashion sales representative for Reeves & Company, Analeise Thomas, pens a Valentine’s letter to her expectant first born.

My Dearest Adair, Words cannot describe the love that your father and I already feel for you. These last nine months have been some of the most joyous times we’ve experienced in our lives thus far. We know that what we feel for you now can’t compare to the love that’s to come in the coming weeks, months and years. There have been moments during this pregnancy where I’ve felt nervous, stressed and weak, but the thought of holding you in my arms makes all the uncertain times worth bearing. I can’t wait to play with you, laugh with you, cry with you, and watch you grow into a beautiful, smart, kind, lovely young woman. Always remember, kindness and generosity towards others will always bring you the most joy. Loving those that aren’t easy to love is the greatest gift you can give yourself. Pretty is, as pretty does. Hard work and perseverance is always honored

by God. And most importantly, always put the Lord first, your family and others second and yourself last. I’m so excited to see all the wonderful things you will accomplish in this life and remember, I love you the mostest!

Love,

Your Mommy

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The

BUTTER HALF

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Charity Jones Shares Her “Love Language” article by Vanelis Rivera photography by Martin G Meyers

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he Vantage Tower in downtown Monroe will soon be known for more than its prominent 12 stories, lavish wedding receptions and esteemed history.

On January 15th, Great Gatsby met Julia Child in the lobby of Monroe’s high-rise with the opening of Butter: A Louisiana Bakery.

In the corner of the Vantage Grand Lobby sat Charity Jones, owner and head baker of Butter. Her long strawberry red waves were pulled back in a ponytail, her yellow apron was embroidered with the Butter logo and her toddler in lap. Husband and “official taster,” Adam Jones, sat next to her, nonchalantly cocooning his infant son. Charity is a local gal, born and raised in Monroe, and though Adam is a “Sterlington guy,” the duo met in community theatre during a production of Pirates of Penzance. They became close, then best friends through college, dated and “two kids later,” they’re opening a bakery. Charity playfully expresses that she “bought his heart with baked goods.”

As their eldest, Penelope, giggled while watching Zootopia on a tablet, Charity told BayouLife about the women who inspired her to open a bakery. “My grandmother was a fantastic baker. She passed it on to my mom,” says Charity who recalls messing up her mother’s recipes at a young age. Charity credits her grandmother for teaching her how to pipe icing and both matriarchs for exemplifying how baking can be a form of service. She insists that baking has become her “love language.”

A college internship at Disney World during 2011 revealed just how much she loved to share love by baking. Her stay occurred during Mardi Gras, so naturally she was craving king cake. “Where can I buy a Mardi Gras cake around here?” Charity recalls asking her Disney coworkers. Being in Florida, nobody knew what she was talking about, so she made her own “massive” king cake and took it to work the next day. She was the first to cut into the cake and as soon as she did, Charity recalls, “Everyone was like, oh, is that cream cheese in there?

What is that?” The Louisiana favorite disappeared in three minutes.

Emboldened by the reception of her home state treat and missing her mom’s baking, Charity began baking for her roommates -- a habit that would soon amplify.

She returned to Monroe torn between culinary school and pursuing a degree in mass communications. The answer came in the form of an opening for an assistant baker position at Vieux Carré. There she became head baker and ceased her pursuit for a degree. Right when it seemed a dream was coming true, Charity stopped baking completely for a job at Vantage. Newly wed, with a husband still in school, she thought it the wiser financial choice, but by the time she got pregnant with Penelope in 2015, she left Vantage for a part-time job at Vieux Carré and took up baking at home, establishing Butter.

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bakery as an addition to the remodeling that was underway for matter and its properties, resulting in flavorful batches of sweets Vantage Tower. Dr. Jones was initially exposed to Charity’s talents that could easily match those of any French-styled patisserie. when he tasted her wedding cake in 2013, a carrot cake she made “Our goal is that you cannot tell the difference. If you can tell the for her own wedding. difference, I’m not serving it,” she says.

It took her 3 months to come up with an adequate recipe that For some, venturing into the land of gluten-free sweets may all of her guests would be able to enjoy, particularly guests with seem like an oxymoron, but Charity has succeeded in incorporating dietary restrictions, like her now father-inthe traditional with the innovative. Butter’s law, Dr. Jones, who has Celiac disease, and menu has all-time favorites such as must eat gluten-free products. Wanting fluffy mini quiches, perfectly salty-sweet "...Charity handles the best for his employees, Charity’s chocolate chip cookies, glazed chocolate healthy and titillating baked goods were an donut holes, vanilla-stuffed eclairs (that are her recipes like unmatched choice for the available space. even better the next day), and a monthly At the time, she was not fully versed in featured cake. It also offers more nuanced an expert chemist, gluten-free baking, but was eager to find pairings like their breakfast panini -tentatively out. She began experimenting with recipes chocolate, bacon and white cheddar hugged while at Vieux Carré and soon became together by their signature pound cake. This manipulating flooded with baking requests from folks wacky combo may seem like something who wanted to include friends and family out of a Dr. Seuss story, but it’s a delightful the composition with dietary restrictions into festivities pound cake step-to-heaven. January’s cake of matter and its involving celebratory sweets. Charity’s is their fan-favorite strawberry cake, and mission became one of inclusion, an may be her Italian-cream cake. properties, resulting February’s honorable aim that has gone unchanged.

Another festive addition for February “I really fell in love with baking gluten-free could be candied apples, “just to get the in flavorful batches because there is really a need, especially in red in there.” Charity currently features of sweets..." this area,” she insists. a red treat that will never go out of style, That means, all of Butter’s baked chocolate covered strawberries. A hint of goods are – gasp – 100% gluten-free. While pink can be spotted from her homemade Charity has a few sweet and savory reasons pop tarts, a fun ode to the 90s that is sure to to shout from the top of Vantage Tower that her baked goods are please any ‘cool kids.’ A few from-scratch rarities have also been gluten-free, she does not advertise herself as a gluten-free baker, sneaked into her display window, such as macaroons, biscotti, two anticipating being “put in a box.” Often associated with strange flavors of crème brûlée, and a hardy Greek yogurt served with flavors and textures, gluten-free sweets are often subjected to your choice of her very own granola mixes-- butter-berry granola wrongful assumptions. However, Charity handles her recipes like made with three different berries and three different nuts or her an expert chemist, tentatively manipulating the composition of salty-chocolate granola.

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Finding the perfect gluten-free creation is no simple feat.

“Everything has its own challenge,” Charity says. Each recipe has been a small victory, because you can’t just replace her flour with a regular recipe. Making her own all-purpose flour from an assortment such as sorghum, rice, tapioca and potato flour, Charity is constantly tweaking to get the texture she wants. With an “army of victories” behind her, she is currently conquering the art of breadmaking. She’s begun this feat with an artisan French bread loaf that is ready for the taking. And, it’s no surprise to say, but Butter’s first king cakes are on the horizon. Regardless of what you choose, one thing’s for sure, gluten-free will be the last thing on your mind.

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n opening day, Charity has a pep in her step that exudes confidence and the love of her craft. She leads with a smile as she seemingly glides from table to table offering coffee refills. It’s hard to imagine this invigorating 27-year-old entrepreneur and ever doubting her or her abilities. But that is part of Charity’s climb. She told BayouLife of two instances that will forever monument her greatest doubts. The first involves a wedding cake she made for her brother that ended up slanting because of poor structural support and sun exposure. The thought of ruining his wedding brought her to tears at the slightest mention.

“For months,” her husband chimes lovingly. The second ended up being a not-so-vanilla cake. She was excited about this one, her complex design and coloring techniques promising. But the next morning she awoke to a Facebook message relaying that the cake was inedible. The word “disgusting” was thrown around. Charity was distraught. She managed some damage control by offering a refund and baking the client her best-selling strawberry cake. Dusting herself off, she threw the vanilla recipe out, cried a lot, worked even more, got encouraged by her husband, and came up with a new vanilla cake recipe that she stands behind.

“I have to say, all glory to God. Without his grace and kindness I wouldn’t be able to do it,” says Charity, adding that without her “cheerleader section” comprised of her family, she wouldn’t have been able to apply for the better what she learned from her mistakes. Her parents always supported her baking, recognizing her talent and encouraging her based on that. She emphasizes that she could not have opened up Butter without her “best friend, strongest supporter, and [love-of-herlife].” She can count on Adam to slip on the yellow Butter apron and blue Butter hat, dive into washing dishes and help her close up shop. “I just love that you love this company as much as I do,” she tells him during our interview.

A talent turned into a calling, Charity claims that there is nothing better than handing someone who hasn’t been able to eat anything sweet or a quiche for years and be able to tell them that they can eat it in its entirety. Her push-the-limits attitude stems from the simple goal of running a good southern bakery and a love for Louisiana and Monroe, making it easy for anyone to fall in love with the ‘butter’ side of downtown Monroe with Butter’s modern bites.

Now open Monday through Friday between 7-11 a.m. Keep up with Charity’s inventive treats via their Facebook page or email them at butterlabakery@gmail.com.

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Grace Episcopal School

Annual Gala: Fundraising to Raise Money to Increase Technology Throughout School

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T IS TIME FOR THE GRACE GALA, Grace Episcopal School’s annual fundraiser.

This event has become known for its unique themes, fun atmosphere and exciting entertainment, and this year is no different.

This year’s committee, led by Janelle Snellings, has put together a Moonlight Mystére with a Cirque du Soleil theme. At Bayou DeSiard Country Club, there will be delicious food, free flowing drinks and entertainment by the always fun band, Fly

By Radio. There will be silent auction items, as well as an exciting live auction. This year’s items include weekend trips to Ocean Springs and Oxford, Mississippi, a beach trip that includes a stay at Phoenix West II, exciting hunting trips, a specialty dinner event and more. But before the event even officially kicks off, VIP ticket holders and sponsors can enjoy special performances and appearances from cirque performers, complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres. You can get your VIP tickets by calling 318-355-7885.

Individual tickets can also be purchased online – graceepiscopalschool.ecwid.com.

The Grace Gala serves as one of the biggest fundraisers for the school and allows Grace Episcopal School to continue to grow and expand, especially in the technology field. In the past few years, the money raised from the gala has allowed the school to invest in Chromebooks, iPads, recreational spaces both inside and out and an upgrade in their wireless infrastructure. The technology in these devices allow teachers and students to download and interact with apps and videos, allowing the students to receive personalized instruction, collaborate on different projects

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and learn and understand the digital flow process. “This is so important, because this is the world we are living in,” said Dr. Beth Ricks, Head of School. “We are preparing our students for higher learning and the work force.”

This year, Grace is focusing on raising funds to get SMART boards in more classrooms and grow their Makerspace. The SMART boards are an interactive display that brings devices, education software and lesson content together. Currently, GES has a SMART board in their science classroom. Middle school science teacher, Paula Garrett, has the opportunity to use it with her students. “It allows us to be interactive, and the students particularly enjoy when I can turn their test review questions into a competition,” said Mrs. Garrett. “They can see the interaction on the board, and they get excited about learning.

They have said that they can remember and retain that knowledge that much more.”

She says that the boards not only increase student engagement, but help the teachers as well. “They are loaded with programs and information, so that helps our productivity,” she said. “It allows us to enhance and enable our interaction with technology, while reaching different types of learners.”

GES continues their 21st century learning with their Makerspace. Grace is an innovative, educational leader, in that it was the first school in the area to create a Makerspace.

This space helps prepare students with critical 21st century skills in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM). This space provides hands on learning, helps with critical thinking skills

and even boosts self-confidence. “It is really a space where kids can take control of their own creative process,” said Dr. Ricks. For example, students may be tasked with the challenge of building a boat with only items supplied to them, such as cardboard, straws, tinfoil, paper plates and paper clips. They break into groups and get to work attempting to build a boat that is waterproof and will float. They get to test the boats on water and then discuss what boats worked and why. “It’s a process where the journey is more important than the end result,” said Dr. Ricks. “It is an open ended challenge, and they are able to learn from their mistakes, work together as a team and really hone in on those critical thinking skills.” At GES, these critical thinking skills start in Pre-K, as the Makerspace is open to classes from Pre-K to middle school. “We are equipping our students with critical thinking skills, the ability to work through the engineering design process and ultimately, teaching them to become active learners, which will equip them with skills for the rest of their lives.”

For over fifty years, GES has provided an outstanding education to children in Northeast Louisiana. Grace Episcopal School provides a challenging curriculum that promotes academic excellence in a Christian environment in order to nurture each child’s spiritual, intellectual, ethical and physical development. Grace Episcopal School embraces diversity among its faculty and student body.

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Life Choices Banquet On Tuesday, January 9, Life Choices hosted their annual fundraising banquet at the Monroe Civic Center. Keynote speakers were Mac and Mary Owen. Mac is the National Director, and Mary is the National Director Training Coach for Celebrate Recovery. Guests enjoyed dinner and the opportunity to hear the Owen’s story and testimony, as well give to Life Choices. This local non-profit organization is primarily funded through the kindness of community through churches, businesses and individuals. Life Choices offers pregnancy tests and information in a caring and confidential environment and provides information on choices regarding unplanned pregnancy. They also offer ultrasounds, counseling, post-abortive counseling and abstinence education, all free of charge.

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On the BayouScene 1 J enny Remsberg and Lyndsey Sikes 2 Rachel Huber and Phyllis Brode 3 Rudy and Patricia Niswanger 4 Leslie and Cody Bauman 5M ary and Mac Owen 6 Jimmy and Sheila Snow 7 Cassie Livingston and Kerri Wall 8 Jodee and Kyle Bruyninckx 9C hristine and Jay Gillikin 10 Kenda Savoie and Phil Hobbs 11 Jed and Anna Robinson, Jennifer and Matt Turpin 12 Selene and John Rea 13 Jason Hinton, Chris and Shawn Brazzell 14 Mead and Felicia Hardwick 15 Aaron and Amy Booth 16 M arkayla Cernigliaro, LeAnna Halley, Ariel Roark and Courtney Avis 17 Al and Lisa Robertson 18 Stacy and Jarred Frost 19 James and Holly McCready

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Downtown Gallery Crawl

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The Downtown Gallery Crawl’s 10th anniversary celebration continued on December 7th. Bayou Blues driving tour kicked off at the Garrett House with live entertainment by Twin City Roots and Joel Jordan.

Sugar Gallery decked the walls with new works by Leah Reitell, Melanie Douthit, Burg Ransom, Scott Stone and Doug Breckenridge. Caroline Youngblood exhibited at The Downtown Gallery, while Rumo’s Gallery featured works by local artist Rachel Barnes.

The Big Room exhibited works by resident artists Anna Rowan, Jenny Ellerbe, Leigh Buffington and Emily Caldwell. The ever-popular Joey Slaughter showed his abstract pieces at ARENDER studio + gallery. Art enthusiasts had a great time viewing these artists pieces and more at this month’s Downtown Gallery Crawl. If you missed it, make sure to mark your calendar for the next crawl on February 1.

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On the BayouScene 1 E mily Reese and Therese Filhiol 2 Tyler Martin and Harley Price 3 Grace Wright and Katie Lynn Carter 4 Allen Spurlock 5M atthew Garcia, Olivia Moore and Brandon Garcia 6 Sam Moss and Courtney Lirette 7 J ake DeMoss, Hannah Clifton and Lesli Rambin 8 Russell, Mae, Remy, and Morgan Moored 9R icky Sikes, Amanda Roe, Caroline Youngblood and Lacey Stinson 10 Amanda Scott and Abigail Berry 11 Sara Beth Howard, Alyssa Guidry and Shawnee Gage 12 Cooper Doyle and Willetta Bailey 13 Baillie Cunningham and Owen Herrock 14 Karen Cooper and Wendy Marsh 15 Renata Herren and Amy Aycock 16 Kylie O’Connor and Emy Patrick 17 Josie Hudson and Skylar Vickery 18 Merion Sanderson and Cindy Stone 19 Emily Caldwell and Leigh Buffington 20 Adrine Fields and Corey Hixson

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Founder’s Day Celebration

One of the nation’s newest chapters of the 129-year-old Tri Delta sorority is thriving at Louisiana Tech University in Ruston. In early 2016, the Louisiana Tech Panhellenic Council selected Tri Delta to recruit potential members and colonize a new chapter in the fall of 2016.

Beginning with approximately 70 young ladies accepting bids, the Epsilon Pi Chapter of Tri Delta was formed at Tech in late 2016, and in its second full year has now grown to a 100-member-strong sorority that was recently honored at a Tri Delta Founder’s Day Celebration.

In December, a newly-chartered Ruston-based Tri Delta Alumnae chapter hosted the Founder’s Day Celebration to honor and recognize 129 years of Tri Delta, which is today the third-largest sorority in the country and one of the nation’s largest financial supporters of St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital.

Local Tri Delta alumna Lesley James arranged for the Founder’s Day event to be held at the historic T.L. James family home (circa 1884), with the decor of the home recreating an atmosphere similar to the Thanksgiving Eve in 1888 when Tri Delta founders Sarah Ida Shaw and Eleanor Dorcas Pond started the organization.

Following a collegiate chapter meeting, the current Tri Delta sorority members at Tech joined their alumnae sisters for refreshments and a formal Founder’s Day program. Julie Kyte, alumnae president, presented a reading of this year’s Tri Delta Founder’s Day Proclamation from National President Kimberlee Di Fede Sullivan.

The inaugural Tri Delta Founder’s Day celebration in Ruston closed with a traditional candle-lighting ceremony in which all 192 national chapters of Tri Delta are recognized.

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1B rooke Mizell, Margaret Rose Legler, Sydney Rice, Dawa Sherpa and Victoria Ned 2 Margaret Rose Legler, Sydney Rice and Randi Roberts 3 Josie Hudson and Sarah Minter 4 Margaret Rose Legler and Brooke Warren 5 E llie Clements, Mary Vanhaverbeke and Aly Clement 6 CJ Hicks and Tracy Stodghill 7 Tracey Hanks, Ann Smithey, Lesley James, Julie Kyte, Catherine Mills, Hillary Husband, Stacy Prescott (Bottom) Olitsa Robbins, Bess DeCuir, Kelly Hogan and Nicole Vermaelen 8 Courtney Chamberlin and Margaret Rose Legler 9 E lizabeth Booth, Molly Beth Duddy and Hannah Givens 10 Sarah Minter and Molly Beth Duddy 11 Kailey Roberson, Courtney Chamberlin, Emily Colvin, Catherine Chatelain, Landry Seimears 12 Bess DeCuir and Molly Beth Duddy 13 Courtney Chamberlin and Sarah Minter 14 Chapter photo 15 Emily Delacroix and Sierra Wilkinson

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Kick Up Your Heels at the Shindig!

Annual Event Slated for March 23rd at MBH Farm

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ON’T MISS OUACHITA COUNCIL ON AGING’S 10TH Annual “Shindig” fundraiser scheduled for Friday, March 23rd, from 7 p.m. until midnight at MBH Farm, owned by Dr. Herschel and Mary Beth Harter in western Ouachita parish. Lisa Spann and Company will entertain the crowd with dance music covering every genre from rhythm and blues to country to rock ‘n roll. Lisa is well known around town and surrounding areas and has a following of her own. Catering for the event will be provided by Catfish Charlie’s, offering a delicious spread of catfish, chicken and all the trimmings! You don’t want to miss out on the delicious food and fun music!

Shindig tickets are $60 for general admission, while a reserved table for 8 can be purchased for $600. By purchasing tickets to this event, you help support some 22 programs available for seniors in Ouachita Parish, including the Meals on Wheels Program and NonEmergency Transportation.

Ouachita Council on Aging’s Executive Director, Lynda McGehee, reminds everyone to come prepared to participate in the Live Auction which will take place midway thru the evening. One item up for bid will be a Blue Dog print by the late artist George Rodrigue. According to McGehee, this will be a night of “fun, food and fellowship,” with patrons dressing casually in cowboy boots, hats and jeans. The huge, gorgeous barn at MBH Farm is decorated in rustic style, with the resident Clydesdales getting ample attention from the crowd.

Back in 2008, the Board of Directors was looking for a way to pay off the remaining debt on the Carolyn Rose Strauss Senior Center and the Ouachita Council on Aging offices located on Ferrand Street in Monroe. The “Shindig” was thus born out of necessity to generate much needed revenue for retiring the building mortgage. After succeeding in “burning the note” in 2012, the Council now directs proceeds from the Shindig to the most vitally needed programs provided for our elderly. The fact that this event is one of the most anticipated in our region is just an extra bonus.

The Ouachita Council on Aging was established by charter in June 1967, thus recently celebrated its 50th year of serving seniors. In 1980, OCA was also designated as the Area Agency on Aging for Ouachita Parish. Currently, OCA has established 12 dining and activity sites throughout the area and 15 Meals on Wheels routes, which cover the entire parish. Additionally, OCA contracts for services with West 86 FEBRUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Ouachita Senior Center in West Monroe and SCORE (Senior Citizens OutReach Entity) in Richwood.

While federal and state funding is provided to the Area Agency on Aging under the Older Americans Act, funding falls short of meeting the needs of the ever-growing senior population. Other sources of funding include United Way, the City of Monroe’s Community Development Block Grant, the City of West Monroe, program participant contributions and donations from concerned citizens and groups in the community. Local sources make up 37% of the total operating budget, with Shindig revenue being a large part of that percentage.

Billy Justice, Marketing Director for Vantage Health Plan, says, “Vantage is proud to be the premier sponsor of this fundraising event for Ouachita Council on Aging. I’ve seen first-hand how the Council operates and how they utilize their funding. The Shindig is their main source for raising additional dollars to fill the budget gaps and meet the needs of our seniors.”

“When OCA first started, they served only 80 persons on the Meals on Wheels Program. Currently, noon meals are provided, Monday thru Friday, to approximately 500 homebound seniors, age 60 and over. We serve meals to another 450 older individuals at our 12 dining sites each day. Monday thru Friday, vans from OCA transport dozens of elderly to doctor appointments and life-saving dialysis and cancer treatment centers. More than any other time in our history, we are depending on continued donations from our community,” said McGehee. “Fortunately, we live in an area that is known for its generosity and concern. We simply couldn’t operate at our current level of service without contributions from local businesses and individuals. We are so very grateful for their support.”

Tickets for the Shindig are now available at the Ouachita Council on Aging office located at 2407 Ferrand Street, Monroe, LA, or by calling Lynda McGehee or Diane Gaines at (318) 387-0535. For information about the Ouachita Council on Aging and its services, visit their website at www.ouachitacoa.com or find them on Facebook.

If you cannot attend the Shindig, but would like to make a donation to OCA, go to the website and click on the “Make a Donation” button.

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From fun florals to luxe velvets, these outfits are perfect for romantic rendezvous.

Whether it’s date night with your special someone or a fun night out with the girls, you’ll be the talk of the town in these flirty, fabulous looks.

HAIR AND MAKEUP MEKA BENNETT | MODEL AVA DICKSON | PHOTOGRAPHY MARTIN G MEYERS SET DESIGN MELANIE MOFFETT AND KATIE SLOAN

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HerringStone’s

Sugar and spice, this outfit is everything nice. This tiered, tulle skirt is reminiscent of Carrie Bradshaw and is perfect for Valentine’s Day. Paired with a Free People bodysuit and classic leather ankle boot, this romantic look mixes modern and classic styles. Accessorize with rose gold tassel earrings and layered rhinestone bracelets.

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Chanticleers

Kimono over. This beautiful floral print crushed velvet kimono features an open front and relaxed fit. Throw it over a flirty pink gauze top with ruffle detail for a fun date night. A coated black wash lends a high-style vibe to these sleek skinny jeans.

Accessorize with a perfect black and white fur clutch, gold and crystal earrings and necklace.

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K-Sera

This all white moto jacket is luxe at its finest.

Layer it over this lightweight velvet top with lace lining at the chest and a cutout on the back. Complete the look with a modern crop jean with fringe detailing running the length of the leg. Daring studs bring brilliant shine to these pointed-toe kitten heels and bring this stunning ensemble together.

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Wine Over Water

Benefitting the Warhawk Endowed Scholarship

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OSTED BY THE ULM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION AND THE Ouachita Parish Alumni Chapter, Wine Over Water is your opportunity to support scholarship funds by attending an exclusive party on the beautiful ULM campus. Proceeds from the night benefit The Spirit of The Warhawk Endowed Scholarship, which is instrumental in attracting our local scholars to ULM.

Thursday, April 5th will be an unforgettable night. The celebration will be held on the Northeast Drive Bridge and will overlook beautiful Bayou DeSiard. With food from over 20 local restaurants, wine provided by Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits and beer provided by Marsala Beverage, your taste buds will be delighted. You will receive a commemorative wine glass, sunset boat rides on the bayou with B & L Marine and entertainment featuring Flashback 5. You do not want to miss this evening of fun, and tickets are only $60. The evening’s attire is dressy casual – no denim or shorts, please.

We are excited to announce our newest addition to the evening – the Tonore’s Cork Pull. With over 50 bottles of wine up for grabs, you can purchase a cork for $25 and take home a mystery bottle of wine for you to enjoy. No bottles are valued at less than $25, but many are worth more. Not only do you have the chance to win spectacular wine, you are also supporting ULM. In addition, a Patron Party will be held prior to Wine Over Water. This event will begin at 6:00 p.m. and last until 7:30 p.m in the ULM Library, on the seventh floor. This will give you the best view of campus, and allow you begin enjoying the celebration prior to the bridge opening! Patron Party tickets include complimentary hors d'oeuvres, event wine glasses and attendance to the Wine Over Water Bridge Party. These exclusive tickets are $125 each, and wonderful entertainment will be provided by the LA Jazz Quartet.

The Spirit of the Warhawk Endowed Scholarship supports local students pursing their first undergraduate degree at ULM. Your ticket purchase ensures students of Northeast Louisiana can continue to strive for academic excellence and ease the financial burden. Numerous scholarships have been awarded since the event’s inception, and our goal is to increase support for our students through Wine Over Water each year. The Ouachita Parish Alumni Chapter hosts numerous events throughout the year to connect alumni and friends.

Tickets are available online at ulm.edu/wine, by calling 318-342-5420, or at the Alumni Office now located at 3601 DeSiard Street. Office hours are Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Don’t wait. Get your ticket today and support The Spirit of the Warhawk Endowed Scholarship!

To learn more about the ULM Alumni Association, please visit ulm.edu/alumni.

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Material Things Gift Guide The Perfect Gifts for Valentine's Day

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ORGET FLOWERS AND CHOCOLATES! GIVE YOUR valentine something she really wants and will treasure from Material Things. Material Things is located in the heart of Monroe on Forsythe Avenue and is full of creative gifts, perfect for Valentine’s Day. From candles and fragrances to furniture and antiques, there is something for every budget that she will love. We have even put together a list of the items we are loving right now!

1. Our in house, handmade sachets-filled with lavender are made from vintage and found, one-of-a-kind textiles. These are unique and no two are the same. She can use these to display on her dresser or tuck it in the closet, dresser drawer or linen closet to fill with a sweet scent.

2. We carry a luxurious line of French bath products available in three intense scents from Lothantique. Refined in the Old World French tradition, these soaps use natural ingredients while offering an authentic, classic element of Provence.

3. Harp Strings is all about rethinking the button. This one-of-a-kind jewelry is made from antique buttons by local artisan Lisa Harp. Her mission is to rethink forgotten antique and vintage buttons and turn them into necklaces, bracelets and rings. Any woman that appreciates all things vintage will love any piece from Harp Strings.

4. Ultra soft and lightweight warmth describe wonderful throws made in Italy. They are great for a pop of color all year round.

5. Antique initial pillows make a wonderful personal gift. These are also handmade in house from vintage and antique passementerie.

6. Pick up a decadent London-based candle from Kenneth Turner’s collection. The signature scent is a layered blend of orange blossom and honeysuckle with citrus oils, woods and spices. If she loves candles, she will be obsessed with this one!

7. We carry books that she will love to delve into or display on the coffee table. Whether she is into furniture, travel, art or style, we have books for everyone.

8. We also carry original pieces of jewelry from Parham & Co. These are exquisitely made from antique pieces combined with beads. These unique pieces are truly a work of art and will make a statement to your true love!

9. Spring is just around the corner and with that comes outdoor living and gardening. Tula hats and gardening accoutrements make the perfect gifts for the lady with a green thumb.

10. The utmost in style, function and luxury-cork lined coolers and insulated tumblers from Sovaro. Your valentine will love the sleek look!

These are just some ideas for this Valentine’s Day. Stop by and we can help you find the perfect gift for the perfect lady!

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dream weaver

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t 6 feet 5 inches tall, Kendrick Jones stands out in a crowd, but his height isn’t the only thing that draws attention.

Kendrick radiates joy and never meets a stranger. At 22 years old, he believes he has discovered his purpose, which is “to call the gold out of other people.” Although the road to this discovery was not always straight, Kendrick strives to fulfill his purpose in every facet of life, whether it’s as a mentor for Ascent Life Elevated, as a worship leader at Christ Church, as founder/CEO of The Dreamer Collective or simply standing in line at the local coffee shop.

Kendrick grew up in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and was blessed with supportive parents who always encouraged him to follow his dreams. “They really helped me see early on that anything was possible,” he said. As a kid, Kendrick played a lot of sports, and his dad was often his coach. “That’s what he is to my life,” Kendrick said. “He pushes me.” At the same time, his mom was always there to lift him up when things went wrong. She’s been a source of lightness and laughter. “She gets me to dance on disappointment,” he said.

With this foundation of family support, Kendrick developed a bravery and willingness to take risks that has continually played a role in his life. The first time he felt that bravery was in third grade when he decided to sing the gospel song “Shout” in the school talent show. He just signed up, without discussing the choice with anyone. In that moment, Kendrick was surprised by his bravery, but he has since come to own it. “I wouldn’t be who I am today if I hadn’t put myself in uncomfortable situations,” he said.

To those who find themselves struggling against fear or who feel like giving up, he said, “Don’t give up. If you’re in a place where there’s blandness everywhere, don’t be afraid to change it up. Do something you’ve never done before. Change your environment. Smile at someone. Talk to someone you don’t even know.” He believes we can find a lot of inspiration in other people and attributes his lesson of change to pastor Jeremy Lowe at Christ Church in West Monroe, Louisiana, where Kendrick now leads worship.

Over the last few years, Kendrick has faced some important moments that compelled him to take his own advice. These moments have called on his bravery and willingness to embrace change. When Kendrick enrolled at the University of Louisiana, Monroe, as a freshman pre-pharmacy major, he thought he was on the right path for himself, but after more than two years in the program, he started to have doubts about his decision and came to realize that his dream of being a pharmacist wasn’t his at all. Though he knew he was on the wrong path, he wasn’t yet sure where to find the right path, so he prayed. “Anytime I’m in a place where I don’t know what the next step should be, I pray,” he said. “I prayed for clarity.” article by APRIL CLARK HONAKER & photography by MARTIN G MEYERS

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series of events followed that gave Kendrick that clarity. At the time, he was involved in student government and was serving as a campus tour guide. On the day his path changed, he arrived at work expecting to give tours only to learn that he and the other guides would be helping at the campus career fair instead. The first three employers Kendrick helped worked in companies related to communication.

Then he and a friend bumped into a woman who had been his first advisor in the pre-pharmacy program, and he learned that she had changed career paths and was now a professor of communication. As the wheels turned in Kendrick’s mind, he shared with her that he’d been feeling drawn to communication as well, so the two of them set a time to talk. As they explored the curriculum, they realized that Kendrick could still graduate on time, if he changed majors. This meeting with his former advisor confirmed everything for Kendrick. “That was the unleashing-clarity moment,” he said.

Some might say it was coincidence that they ran into one another again, but Kendrick said, “It was God.” Kendrick graduated in May 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts in communication and a minor in communication advocacy. He said choosing to major in communication was one of the biggest game changers of his life. “It gave me the bones to express all these passions and dreams,” he said, “and the students really encouraged me, believed in me and supported me.” In studying communication, Kendrick discovered how much he loved blogging and telling people’s stories, and he learned how to do it well. One of his professors Dr. Leslie Pace was a huge mentor. “She really pushed me to be all I could be,” he said. In his short time there, the communication department became family to him.

Kendrick’s time in college also helped shape him into a man ready for his purpose. Through his involvement in student government, Kendrick served on a committee for student life and academic enhancement. This committee supported students by giving out small, encouraging treats during finals week. Kendrick was also part of the university’s PREP staff, which helps guide new freshmen during the orientation process. Through experiences like these, Kendrick saw small acts of kindness have big impacts in people’s lives. “Being at ULM helped shape me as a leader,” he said. It also sparked a passion for being intentional in people’s lives.

As this passion was unfolding, Kendrick started to dream of attending seminary at Hillsong College in Sydney, Australia, and he devised a plan to raise money to make that dream possible. He designed a simple t-shirt emblazoned with the words “dream dreamer.” Priced at $20, the shirt was a way to encourage others to pursue their dreams as they supported his. Kendrick’s first order of

24 shirts sold out in one day, and his next order of 80 shirts sold out in one week. Soon he was receiving interest in the shirts from out of state, and he was surprised at how quickly and positively people were responding. Eventually the original purpose of the campaign, which was to raise money for seminary, was overshadowed by the message of the shirts and Kendrick’s passion for documenting people’s stories in relation to that message. He started to see his dream differently— from God’s perspective—and realized that he was being driven by his own sense of timing and purpose, not God’s.

As his perspective shifted, Kendrick was invited to introduce Joe White, the founder of Kanakuk Kamps, at a ministry event on campus called After Dark. Although he only spoke for a few minutes, he got to share a bit of his story and how the message of his shirts was becoming a movement. “I got to share what my heartbeat was behind this movement,” he said. During the event, Kendrick’s friends rallied around him for support.

They were not only wearing and selling the shirts but also talking about their dreams. Afterward, Kendrick’s mom, who had attended the event, understood the significance of what he was doing. “My mom got on board that night,” he said.

After that night, Kendrick decided to start The Dreamer Collective. “I felt led to continue to do this,” he said. “Isn’t there a lot more value in helping others realize their dreams?” On the “About” page of his website DreamDreamer. org, he wrote, “I created The Dreamer Collective with hopes to inspire the world to pursue their dreams. My hope is that this cause would encourage you to discover your passion and to find your purpose. Most of all, The Dreamer Collective seeks to remind you that your story matters.” Reflecting on his decision to start The Dreamer Collective, he said, “The pursuit of one dream led to the unveiling of my purpose.”

For some people, dreams are just movies that play in our minds while we sleep or things we want but will never have. But for Kendrick, dreams are so much more. He said, “The aspect of dreaming, in a sense, came from God speaking in my life and showing me that before I could dream, He had dreamed of me. Before my dreams were a factor, I was His dream. God has us. We’re in His thoughts—all the amazing things we’ll do and accomplish. I believe God is a dreamer, and so are we.” Kendrick believes that it’s in our nature to have dreams and that each of us has a valuable story. “You have a Father who created you this way,” he said. “No matter who you are or what your circumstances are, your dreams matter.”

One thing that has been especially beautiful for Kendrick to watch is how other people with similar stories have been inspired by his. One of his friends Morgan Potts started her own business called Granarly, which has been very successful. She made that choice based on a literal dream and after being accepted to veterinary school the

“I CREATED THE DREAMER COLLECTIVE WITH HOPES TO INSPIRE THE WORLD TO PURSUE THEIR DREAMS. MY HOPE IS THAT THIS CAUSE WOULD ENCOURAGE YOU TO DISCOVER YOUR PASSION AND TO FIND YOUR PURPOSE.”

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same week. Kendrick said they are both dreamers who inspired each other, held each other accountable and reminded each other that their dreams mattered.

The dream-dreamer movement not only has the potential to create greater intimacy and inspire people on a small scale. It also has the potential to multiply that intimacy and inspire others on a grander scale. The shirts themselves are a tool, a conversation starter, a way to get people talking about their dreams. Kendrick believes that if we encourage people to share their dreams it can change the tone of our lives. It can eclipse the sources of darkness and negativity, whether they come from the news or somewhere closer to home. But The Dreamer Collective is about more than t-shirts. DreamDreamer. org features a blog series in which people share their dreams as a way to inspire others, and Kendrick has other plans to expand the reach of The Dreamer Collective.

“For me to be inspired,” Kendrick said, “it means opening my eyes to something I’ve never seen before, and it impacts me so much I have to take action right then. It’s almost biological. It’s a rush, and I feel like I can’t do anything until I deal with that feeling.” He believes being inspired on a daily basis is super important for everyone, and he hopes to contribute to that inspiration whether it’s through a t-shirt, a blog post or another form.

Kendrick’s plans to grow The Dreamer Collective include a podcast series, a monthly newsletter and something he calls Instameets, which will be one-time events at various locations designed to bring dreamers together for fun, story-telling, dream-sharing and fellowship. “My vision,” he said, “is to see the community embrace this and get inspired.” He imagines people having their morning coffee while listening to his podcasts or reading his blog and feeling ready to greet the day with passion and purpose. “This would continue to encourage me to see the value in others and open my eyes,” he said. “I hope to see growth, empowerment and inspiration in myself, the community and the world.”

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Southern Bath & Kitchen Building Your Best New Year Yet

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OU WAKE UP AND POUR yourself a cup of steaming coffee, looking out through your kitchen window. For once, the window’s foggy, steamed from the almost frosty air outside.

You pull on your favorite sweater, unused for months through the sultry summer heat.

Football’s winding down, hunters adorn the woods, and you’re making resolutions for the new year. It’s winter in the South.

For the new year resolutions that include healthier cooking, or meal prepping, make sure your kitchen can keep up with your momentum. With top styles in electric or gas heat and a range of options for traditional or tankless water heaters, Southern Bath & Kitchen is here to help you stay toasty-warm in the kitchen. If staying warm in the bathroom is high on your priority list, then consider it done. We carry in-home steam systems from Mr. Steam, bathroom towel warmers from Amba and heat/vent/lights from Panasonic

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& Broan. With exciting new developments in kitchen and bath technology, it’s worth a visit, even for the homeowner who’s not in the middle of a project! Remember Southern Bath & Kitchen for the best kitchen and bath plumbing fixtures (i.e. Delta Faucets, Moen and Kohler). Thinking about appliances? They carry a great selection from Viking, Whirlpool, KitchenAid and a whole lot more.

While Southern Bath & Kitchen is known for being your go-to source for the best selection for new home construction, they’re a great stop for a remodel or weekend honey-do around the house. Maybe it’s a pesky kitchen faucet or a failing garbage disposal. Maybe you’re looking to upgrade a showerhead in your guest bath. Maybe a child or parent needs that last push to get them started on a remodel.

Or maybe you’re looking to completely overhaul your kitchen. Whatever your goals, Southern Bath & Kitchen is here to help bring your dream kitchen and bath to life!

If you’re looking to get a better feel for their exquisite designer showrooms and expansive selection of products, Southern Bath & Kitchen is pleased to announce their recently updated website. With great shots of their top products for the kitchen and bath, you’ll also find the latest in their other lines – outdoor cooking and grilling, gas and electric appliances for your kitchen and even hard-tofind hardware like cabinet knobs, towel bars and soap dispensers. You can even contact the showroom directly to kick-start that design project!

Call for an appointment today with the West Monroe showroom manager, Amanda McCoy. She has an interior design background and has been in the plumbing/appliance industry for 6 years. She can show you the lastest trends for your new kitchen or bath.

The spacious showroom will surely give you inspiration for your next project! If you’d like to see some of our products in action, come see us at the upcoming HBA Home Expo February 17th & 18th at the Monroe Civic Center, booths 421 & 422!

With fantastic personalized service and unparalleled industry expertise, Southern Bath & Kitchen is here to help. Give them a call at (318) 387-9184 or visit them online at southernbathandkitchen.com.

Another Year, Another Season Breast Augmentation Season is Upon Us

BY TIMOTHY J. MICKEL, MD, CERTIFIED, AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY

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OR MOST HUNTERS, THE END OF January marks the beginning of a depressing down time before the bass spawn and the turkeys strut in the spring.

But for me, and for plastic surgeons across America, the end of January is a time of anticipation and excitement, because it marks the beginning of my favorite season breast augmentation season.

Though you probably wouldn’t see it on Planet Earth, each January an incredible phenomenon begins. As women shed their thick outer layers of winter clothing in anticipation of abbreviated swimwear, the plastic surgeon is often the first stop along the migratory route that leads to spring and summer wetlands across America.

The natural diversity of breast size, shape and position is breathtaking to behold and certainly reflects the natural diversity of

life on this planet. There is a corresponding variety of ways to do a breast augmentation for a comfortable, natural result.

I have been doing plastic surgery for over twenty years and breast surgery is still one of the most enjoyable and challenging areas of my practice. Since no two people are exactly alike, I individualize treatment for each patient to get the best result. I use both smooth and textured implants; I place implants above or below the muscle; I use various incisional approaches; and I am comfortable with both saline and silicone implants -though I prefer silicone in most patients. I perform the full range of breast procedures: reconstruction after mastectomy, breast reduction, breast lift (with or without an implant), treatment of breast asymmetry and breast augmentation. I invite you to visit

www.mickelplasticsurgery.com and check out our “before and after” area.

Perhaps the most important development in breast augmentation in the past few years has been the return of the silicone implant. I not only trained with silicone implants, but I have done over a thousand silicone breast augmentations since the silicone restrictions were lifted. In my opinion, silicone implants offer a softer, more natural and therefore more aesthetically pleasing result. Of course, we still offer saline implants for patients who simply don’t want silicone. Moreover, for patients who already have breast implants and wish to change them for any reason, cohesive gel or “gummi bear” implants are a great option.

As a surgeon, I enjoy doing breast augmentation because there are few areas of surgery where a one-hour procedure can have such a profound impact on the way a patient feels about herself.

So don’t let another breast augmentation season come and go. Call Mickel Plastic Surgery, 388-2050, to schedule a consultation.

And remember to remind your husband or significant other that Valentine’s Day gift certificates are available!

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What do Lutherans Believe?

Trinity Lutheran Church Answers Your Questions

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HAT DO LUTHERAN CHURCH MISSOURI SYNOD (LC-MS) Lutherans believe? The “alphabet soup” terminology of the different Lutheran churches can be confusing to say the least. There is the ELCA, the LC-MS, the CLC, the ELS and the WELS just to name a few. Did you know that there are over 20 different denominations in the USA that have the word Lutheran in their name? Because of this confusion, it can be hard to really know the answer to the question “What do Lutherans believe?”

So we are going to be starting a class designed to give you an overview of our teachings as LC-MS Lutherans based on God’s Word.

Some of the things we will deal with include: • How God reveals Himself to Mankind • The Beginning of all things - Creation • The Law - God’s Changeless Standard of Morality • God’s Great Exchange - The main message of the Bible • The Savior - Who Jesus is and what he has done for us.

• The Means of Grace - The Sword of the Spirit • The Christian Life in response to God’s grace • The Christian’s Worship - Prayer and Public Worship of God • The Last Things - Death and Judgment Day • The Church and its Ministry - The Body of Christ

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• Roles and Gifts for God’s People • The Church - The Communion of Saints

As you can probably tell, there will be a lot of good opportunity for discussion during the classes. And we use God’s Word to guide and direct our discussions.

So please consider attending the class called “What do Lutherans Believe?” It is a great refresher for those who have been Lutheran for a while. And it is a great opportunity for those who are considering membership here at Trinity Lutheran Church. Also, for those who are members of a different denomination and are just wondering, “What do Lutherans Believe?” it is a chance to learn what we Lutherans really do believe and teach.

The classes will be held twice a week. There will be a class Sunday at 9:15 a.m. There will also be a class on Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. At the Thursday night class we will be offering a light meal for FREE. The Thursday evening class is a repeat of the Sunday morning class.

MAKING MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME Continued From Page 68

family and friends, when you can’t be with them. By the way, and I don’t know about you, readers, but I’m not really interested in doing a survey to help you decide what to order for lunch from Chick-Fil-A; what your spouse did to make you want to seek out legal counsel; or that you are at the gynecologist for your annual exam. I’m. Not. Interested. I am, however, interested in seeing families spending time together, families enjoying a beautiful snow-kissed day (I bet the folks at Entergy will send me hate mail), and families making memories (sounds very Hallmark, but readers, you have come to expect it from me, so don’t judge.) Truly, it was so refreshing to see the smiles and the laughter and the beautiful landscapes at everyone’s homes. I don’t know about you, friends, but it warmed the heart of someone who can get a little cynical and a little sour sometimes.

For you see, readers, life is full of these same opportunities every day. It doesn’t have to snow to make some time to foster these wonderful memories that your children will always cherish. Family time is family time, no matter where you are or what you are doing, as long as you are together. My family enjoyed a wonderful day, “snowed in,” fireplace going, chili cooking and icicles hanging. I wouldn’t trade that day for anything in the world except a trip to Italy. When my editor sent me an email and said that this month’s magazine would be featuring articles

on “love,” well, I kind of went into the same frenzy as the “breadless” Facebook readers, because, well, this is a family and children’s column and well, I don’t think anyone would be interested in how me and Scott keep the romance alive at our house. That would be like, really weird and make my children tell us goodbye and go live with another family.

Wait, where was I? Oh yes, this month’s magazine being about love.

As I sat and watched my children play in the snow and David enjoying his young children, and my neighborhood being all Norman Rockwell, I realized that this column is, in fact, about love. It’s about the love in our families, the love between friends and neighbors, the love that we should have for all creatures, big and small (yes, that sounds like a nursery rhyme, but hang with me.) True love was evident all through the BayouLife community this week, as families posted pictures of each other with looks of sheer joy and excitement.

These types of days, friends, are gifts. You don’t get a “re-do,” because very soon the ice and snow will begin to melt and all you have left are the memories you created with the beautiful and mesmerizing day we were gifted. It was an enchanting and memorable way to kick off the new year, and my prayer is we will be able to seize these moments, however fleeting they may be, and create extraordinary memories that will last a lifetime.

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The Cinderella Project of Monroe

Local Non-Profit Organization is Collecting Prom Dresses Throughout The Month of February

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HE CINDERELLA PROJECT OF Monroe is in its eighth year and provides local junior and senior girls prom dresses, while building self-esteem, selfconfidence and the importance of giving back to others. The Cinderella Project of Monroe is collecting prom dresses through February for its dress giveaway in the spring. “We have collected hundreds of dresses since we started and been able to serve hundreds of girls right here in our community,” said Ashley Hubenthal, Director of The Cinderella Project of Monroe.

Dresses should be age appropriate and suitable for a high school student, clean and in good condition. Donations can be dropped off at Raising Cane’s on Louisville Ave., Raising Cane’s in West Monroe, Raising Cane’s in Ruston, HerringStone’s Boutique, Eleven 26 Boutique, Hemline, Louisiana Purchases, Rodéo Boutique of Ruston, any

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of the three D&D Cleaners locations and any Cross Keys Bank branch in Monroe, West Monroe, Sterlington, Rayville, St. Joseph, Tullulah and Waterproof.

After the dresses are collected, The Cinderella Project will host a Dress Giveaway on March 10th at the Monroe Civic Center, open to area junior and senior high school girls. Each girl is assigned a personal shopper, a Cinderella Project volunteer, to help pick out a dress and try dresses on.

“Raising Cane’s and Cross Keys Bank are essential to The Cinderella Project because of their convenient locations for drop off points. Plus, they are truly committed to serving their community. We would not have grown without their help,” said Ashley Hubenthal.

This year, expenses have gone up, so The Cinderella Project has asked the community for their help, and they have stepped up! “We

have experienced an increase in the cost of renting the venue, and we have to buy more and more plus size dresses each year, but we have had people step up to make sure this year is a success!,” said Ashley Hubenthal.

Heather Guillot with Vanguard Realty, Emily Lane with Louisiana Purchases and Josh and Leslie Culp with Hemline have all joined as sponsors and will be key to ensuring that hundreds of girls will be able to receive a free prom dress.

The Cinderella Project of Monroe is already looking for volunteers for the Dress Giveaway in the spring. If you would like to get involved or make a monetary donation, please contact Ashley Hubenthal at Ashley.m.yeldell@gmail.com. For more information on The Cinderella Project of Monroe, please visit cinderellaprojectla.org or facebook.com/CinderellaProjectMonroe.

A New Year, A New You!

Dr. Patrick McGee Offers Comprehensive General Dentistry and More

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ITH THE NEW YEAR COMES new resolutions and new personal goals. We all have great intentions to lose weight, get in shape and eat better all in an attempt to look and feel better about ourselves. An often overlooked part of ourselves is our oral health. Achieving a healthy, beautiful smile should be apart of everyone’s New Year’s Resolution. Lucky for our patients, we help them (and can help you) achieve those goals.

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

At the office of Dr. Patrick McGee, our number one goal is for you to be happy with the way your smile looks and functions. We offer numerous cosmetic dental services including: tooth whitening, cosmetic crowns and veneers, Invisalign®, Six Month Smiles® Orthodontics and natural white restorative fillings. Cosmetic dentistry not only improves the way you look and feel about yourself, but

it also dramatically increases how well your teeth function. Severely worn or decayed teeth can significantly decrease how well you speak and chew as well as make you age prematurely.

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implant services are the cornerstone of our practice. Providing comprehensive oral implantology services is something in which we take great pride. Dental implants are the gold standard in replacing missing teeth.

Whether you are replacing a single missing tooth or looking for an alternative to complete or partial dentures, dental implants can help improve your quality of life by helping you chew and function more efficiently. Dr. McGee has extensive training in the area of oral implantology to help his patients improve their life with dental implants.

SYSTEMIC HEALTH AND ORAL HEALTH

An often overlooked aspect to systemic

health is oral health. The mouth is the entry point to the body; therefore, a clean, healthy mouth helps maintain a healthier you. For example, periodontal (gum) disease has long been shown to have negative outcomes to a person’s general health by increasing your risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other systemic diseases. At every check-up, Dr. McGee accesses the health of your gums to ensure that they are healthy and disease free.

Dr. McGee also completes head/neck cancer exams and TMJ evaluations at every check-up.

All of which he believes is vital to your overall health.

The new year brings many opportunities for us to better ourselves. Whether you want a straighter, whiter smile or are in need of complex restorative and surgical treatment, let us help you take a small step to help better your smile, so you can better your life.

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P A I N T I N G H E R P A S S I O N MONROE ARTIST BUNNY HEWITT describes herself as a “moody painter.” She paints only when she feels moved to create, filling her canvas with whatever images inspire her in the moment. While her artistic process may not be regimented or methodical, the quality of her work is consistently extraordinary.

Born Barbara Ann Cannon, Hewitt has been known by the nickname “Bunny” her entire life. “I was just a baby when my Austrian grandfather started calling me Bunny, and it stuck,” she says. Hewitt’s mother was from Minnesota, of Austrian and Norwegian descent.

Her father, who was Lebanese, was in the Navy, stationed in San Diego, when her mother met him in 1943.

Hewitt was born in Minnesota and reared in her father’s hometown of Monroe, where the family moved shortly after her birth. Her father worked as an orthopedic surgeon and her mother as a registered nurse. Together, they founded the area’s first orthopedic clinic that is still operating in Monroe today. “My father loved medicine and practiced until he was 80 years old,” Hewitt recalls fondly.

Hewitt began painting in high school, but received very little artistic instruction. She says that there seemed to be less focus on the arts in schools, when she was a young student.

Consequently, she never considered art as a major course of study. With no interest in pursuing a career in medicine like her parents, Hewitt instead studied merchandising in college, first at Ole Miss and then later at LSU. She took classes in art and theater, but only as electives. Of her formal education, Hewitt laughingly says that she was a well-rounded “C” student.

As Melanie King, art instructor and owner of Painter’s Palette in Monroe can attest, Hewitt is far from average in terms of artistic ability and talent. Hewitt began painting under King’s tutelage nearly forty years ago and still paints at King’s studio at least once a week. She credits King with much of her success as a professional artist. “I owe Melanie a great deal,” says Hewitt, noting that many local artists have been positively influenced by King’s teaching. “She encourages artists to create what they feel.”

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“The beauty of fine arts is that it combines technical expertise with emotional feeling. I may help with a student’s technical skill, but the creativity that each person brings to the work is something that I can’t teach,” King says. “All students have their own creative style, and that is certainly true of Bunny.”

King has watched Hewitt evolve as an artist over the years, providing guidance as she developed through different phases. “For years, she painted in oils, doing mostly abstracts,” King recalls. “She would shy away from certain colors, like green, which she never used. Now she is using wonderful shades of green in her work.” In recent years, Hewitt has taken her work in a different direction as she paints fewer abstracts and more concrete images, particularly animals.

Acrylics are now her medium of choice.

King says that young art students often comment on Hewitt’s work when they see it in her studio. “So many people love her work and want to replicate it, but she has a unique style that only she knows how to bring to the canvas. Even ages ago when she first started, Bunny’s work was distinctive and beautiful,” King says. “Bunny has always had great success, because she is very, very free as an artist.”

Hewitt admits her work is not confined or overly structured. “I am a loose painter, in terms of style,” Hewitt says. “But I may worry excessively over some detail, such as an eye. The hardest thing is knowing when to quit, and just let it be.” Of the painting process, Hewitt says that she prefers to paint alone and finds it hard to paint if others are watching. She rarely paints at home, as she is more productive in the studio, away from distractions. “If I’m at home, I find myself stopping to do other things like laundry or bills or anything else. I think that’s very common.”

Hewitt says that, oddly, her professional career began with a commission. Someone familiar with her painting, which up to that point had been merely a hobby, asked her to create a custom piece. She recalls that she approached the commission with some trepidation, unsure if what she produced would meet her client’s expectations. That first commission was not only successful, but led to other commissioned work and marked the beginning of her artistic career.

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Hewitt was commissioned by the director of the Monroe Little Theater to do a series of paintings interpreting the four seasons. She says this opportunity was her first “big break” as an artist.

These oversized paintings were used by the local theater for years in productions and at theater events, and brought recognition to her artwork within the community and elsewhere.

Hewitt’s art career was forced into a hiatus of sorts after she and her first husband divorced. She continued to paint, but as a single mother with two teenagers she had less time to focus on artistic endeavors as she worked and took care of their needs. She opened Saint Germain Shoes, a designer shoe store in Monroe, with the help of her sister, Faye Cannon. Cannon founded the original Saint Germain in New Orleans’ Canal Place in 1978 and operated there for over thirty years before selling the business to her longtime associate and friend, iconic footwear designer Donald Pliner.

Hewitt operated the Monroe location for five years, and painting became less of a priority as she worked long hours at the store.

After Saint Germain closed, Hewitt worked as a buyer for Armstead’s and as a fundraiser for the March of Dimes. Years later, she entered into another commercial venture with a family connection. With her cousin Joey Haddad, Hewitt founded Parterre, a home and garden boutique on Park Avenue in Monroe. After working for several years with Haddad, she eventually gave up her interest in Parterre, leaving her more time to devote to her art.

In addition to painting, Hewitt also finds time to pursue other interests, most of an artistic nature. She enjoys theater and music and plays the piano. Hewitt also loves to tap dance, something she did regularly with instructor Jeannie Roberts for about seven or eight years.

“I think it’s important to remain open to new things, even as we get older,” says Hewitt.

Hewitt possesses a beauty that belies her age and an energy and enthusiasm for life that much younger women envy.

She married her husband, Frank Hewitt, after more than two decades as a single divorcée. They courted on and off for twenty years before finally marrying in 2000.

The Hewitt’s home in North Monroe is filled with fine art and reflects her eclectic taste. Along with her own

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work, the walls are adorned with paintings by artists that Hewitt admires. Abstracts from her earlier years hang alongside landscapes

by Margaret Becton, drawings by Richard Ferguson and pieces by her cousin, renowned Minnesota artist Roger Kast.

One of the few portraits Hewitt has painted is of her maternal grandfather, depicted as she remembers him--in work clothes, alongside a tractor, working the land that he loved on his farm in Minnesota. This painting, which hangs in Hewitt’s home, holds significant meaning and is one of her favorite works. Another rare portrait by Hewitt is that of her grandson, Max Mitchell, and her late daughter-in-law, Jody Dugas Mitchell, painted from a photograph as a gift to Jody’s parents. “I really don’t do portraits. These are exceptions,” Hewitt insists.

Many of Hewitt’s more recent paintings reflect images of animals, a favorite subject for her. She is as passionate about caring for animals as she is about painting. Hewitt currently has three dogs and two cats, and the neighborhood pets visit often, knowing she is always ready with a treat. As a volunteer with the Pet Assistance Welfare Society (PAWS) of Northeast Louisiana, Hewitt helps facilitate adoptions of dogs from the local shelter. Her love for animals is evident in much of her work. Likenesses of dogs, horses, lemurs and zebras fill the canvases in her home and studio. Endangered species are especially interesting to Hewitt, and protecting these creatures from extinction is a cause she cares deeply about.

Hewitt insists that she is not a prolific painter. “I don’t paint every day,” she says. “I don’t turn out paintings consistently.

And my interests are always changing.” She also does not market her work, except through friends and family and word of mouth.

Hewitt’s daughter Marianna Mitchell Leija, an accomplished interior designer and business owner in Los Angeles, has been instrumental in introducing her work to a wider audience and selling paintings to collectors. Hewitt’s paintings can be found hanging in homes and offices throughout the United States.

“As an artist, you have to have a tough hide. Not everyone is going to love your work, and you have to be able to discern that that is not an affront to you or your painting,” Hewitt says. “Generally, people just know what they like. If my work inspires someone in some way, stirs them or makes them feel something, then that, to me, is success.”

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Warning Signs of a Heart Attack Prevention by Acting Fast

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N THE UNITED STATES, CORONARY HEART DISEASE which includes heart attack, causes 1 of every 7 deaths. But many of those deaths can be prevented — by acting fast!

Each year, about 635,000 people in the U.S. have a new heart attack and about 300,000 have a repeat attack. Some heart attacks are sudden and intense. But most start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Here are some of the signs that can mean a heart attack is happening: • Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

• Shortness of breath. May occur with or without chest discomfort.

• Other signs: These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are more likely than men to have some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I SUSPECT A HEART ATTACK? Even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, immediately call 9-1-1 or your local emergency medical services (EMS) such as the fire department or ambulance. EMS staff can begin treatment when they arrive — up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car.

WHAT ELSE CAN I DO? Before there’s an emergency, it’s a good idea to find out which hospitals in your area have 24-hour emergency cardiac care. Also, keep a list of emergency phone numbers next to your phone and with you at all times, just in case. Take these steps NOW. WHY DON’T PEOPLE ACT FAST ENOUGH? Many people having a heart attack wait more than two hours before getting help. Some people feel it would be embarrassing to have a “false alarm.” Others are so afraid of having a heart attack that they tell themselves they aren’t having one. These feelings are easy to understand, but they’re also very dangerous. If you or someone close to you shows signs of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 and get help right away!

HOW CAN I HELP TO AVOID A HEART ATTACK? • Don’t smoke, and avoid second-hand smoke.

• Treat high blood pressure if you have it.

• Eat foods that are low in saturated fat, trans fat, sodium (salt) and added sugars.

• Be physically active.

• Reach and maintain a healthy weight.

• Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes.

• Get regular medical check-ups.

• Take medicine as prescribed.

Source: American Heart Association

St. Francis Medical Center offers 24-hour emergency cardiac care, an Accredited Chest Pain Center and a full range of cardiac and cardiovascular services.

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A Decade of Style and Service

Blake Mason Celebrates 10 Years with Rain Beauty | Body

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LAKE MASON HAS ALWAYS known he would go into the business of beauty. Growing up, he spent time in the salon and started shampooing clients at 15. He followed his passion and attended the Aveda Institute in Baton Rouge. Upon graduation, he found his way to Monroe and Rain the Salon and Day Spa. He has spent the last 10 years at Rain, crafting his skill and creating lasting relationships along the way.

Originally from Natchez, Mississippi, Blake has made Monroe his home and his co-workers have become his family. “The owners – Holly and James McCready have allowed me to express myself, given me support and use my knowledge base and strengths to add to their business,” said Blake. “At Rain, I am surrounded by people who are passionate about their craft and that inspires and motivates me.” Blake also views

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his clients as an extenstion of his family.

“I have built very close relationships with people over the past ten years,” said Blake.

“I am so thankful for my clients and their loyalty. They allow me to be creative, and they trust me. They also give me energy and strength. I have one particular client that I see every Thursday morning, and she makes my day every week.”

Beyond the relationships, Blake enjoys his career, because he is truly passionate about hairdressing and sees it as an art form. “It truly is an art, and I am constantly seeking inspiration and ways to better my art,” said Blake. “From attending annual education opportunities in Las Vegas each year, to learning from Oribe in Miami, I am always expanding what I know. I am constantly growing and seeking to be better.”

When he isn’t behind the chair, Blake enjoys traveling and finding inspiration

through art and culture. On his journeys, he has the opportunity to see what the upcoming trends are. “Right now, long hair is making a comeback,” said Blake. “Also a dishelved look and a semi-wet look will be big soon.” No matter what the on-trend look is, Blake says it all starts with a great shampoo and conditioner. “You definitely want to use a great product that is sulfate free and doesn’t damage your hair,” said Blake. “The Oribe Gold Lust line is perfect for many different hair types and works well for just about anyone.”

Over the course of his ten years at Rain, Blake’s goal has always been about the guest. “My favorite part of my job is making people feel better than when they came in. I strive to provide excellence and be the best and provide the best.”

A Guide to Loving Your Smile Your Heart Will Thank You

Give Your Teeth Some T.L.C.

Visiting the dentist on a regular basis is the key to good oral health. Frequent visits keep your smile healthy, but these visits may also help catch potential problems early. This could make treatments simpler and more affordable.

Catching problems early is not only good for oral health and your wallet, but it may also boost your medical health, too. The benefits of routine oral maintenance are seemingly endless!

Break Up with Buildup At NELA Dental, routine check ups include teeth cleaning by a dental hygienist and an examination by your dentist. Cleanings remove the buildup of plaque and tartar.

Excess tartar can lead to problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay. That’s because your body treats tartar like it would the flu or an infection. It is important to keep this buildup under control. If plaque is allowed to thrive for

years, the damage may be irreversible.

It is also important to have an at-home routine to maintain healthy gums and teeth.

NELA Dental dentists recommend brushing your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and rinsing with mouthwash.

It Matters to Your Heart Studies have shown a link between gum disease and your heart. Research suggests that those who suffer from gum disease may have an increased risk of developing heart disease.

Inflammation caused by gum disease may be the link between the two.

Signs of gum disease: • red, swollen or tender gums • bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating • persistent bad breath • gum recession

Time to Make a Move Frequency of dental visits depend on the patient. Those with little risk of cavities and gum disease should visit their dentist once or twice year. Higher risk patients should visit a dentist every three to four months. Higher risk patients include those with a personal or family history of oral issues, pregnant women and those with heart disease.

Call NELA Dental to schedule your check up. We offer flexible appointment times at three convenient locations. Our offices are located in Monroe, Farmerville and Oak Grove. Our dentists are ready to help guide you to your healthiest smile.

Resource: American Academy of Periodontology

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Chanticleers Design and Fashion A Small-town Family Business

BY EVA HORNE, OWNER

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HERE DID YOU GET THAT name? How do you pronounce it?

What does it mean? Those are the first questions we hear each time our door opens with new customers. In medieval fables and fairy tales, the word Chanticleer was used as a proper name for a rooster. We selected the name Chanticleers for our business, in remembrance of my late brother, Rowell, whose nickname was “Rooster,” In choosing the name, we are reminded of love and laughter. That was Rowell.

In June 2017, we opened our doors and have been counting our blessings ever since.

My husband, Clint, and I have two sons, Jess and Drew, who married two lovely ladies.

Brittany, one of my daughters-in-law, works with me at the store, ordering and receiving inventory and designing and maintaining our online marketing. My other daughter-in-law,

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Linda Claire, assists with going to market and the merchandise displays at the store, while my husband and sons do the heavy lifting.

This is a family business, and we always put our family first. Rayville, to us, is our family.

We enjoy getting to serve our family in anyway we can.

Our boutique is a combination of home décor, furniture, women’s clothing and accessories. I’ve always had a passion for collecting old furniture and applying unique finishes, giving each piece new life. When I first started, I was constantly painting and refinishing pieces in my garage which began catching some attention from family and friends. People began to ask me if I would work on their old pieces or would ask to buy furniture that I had already finished. My “garage business” began to grow and the hunt for a larger space began. Along with an interest

in antiques, and looking for a place to work on them, I have always had a love for fashion. We saw a need in our small town of Rayville, for a women’s clothing boutique and decided to combine the two. Our clothing is not targeted toward any specific age group, but to women of ALL ages, from young to mature.

Whether you need help picking out a thoughtful gift, finding that unique addition to your home or finding that perfect outfit, we are happy to help. We have had an amazing first six months and would like to say “thank you” to all of our friends, family and customers, who have made it possible. We look forward to serving our community for many years to come!

Chanticleers, Design & Fashion 1224 Harrison St., Rayville, LA, 318.282.6326 Tuesday – Friday 10a.m.-5p.m.

Saturday 10a.m.-2p.m.

Makers of Handmade Fine Jewelry Let DuPont Jewelers Create a One-of-a-Kind Piece for You

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ORKING WITH A COUPLE TO to make their Engagement and Wedding Rings is one of my favorite and most rewarding pleasures. When a couple enters our store, usually, it is obvious the purpose of their visit. This experience has changed over the years, but one thing seems to never change, their hope, excitement and apprehension of shopping for the perfect ring.

We usually start off the conversation by talking about their likes and dislikes in style, color of metal, style of cut for the center stone, and style of the mounting. Do you like a simple solitaire or maybe a very popular halo setting? What about a vintage look or perhaps an infinity style, or a single or double row of diamonds on the side with your choice of precious metal?

This is where the conversation changes from the past. My question is always, have you seen a style you like? That is usually when the phone comes out, and I am shown a

picture of the dream ring for the bride to be.

Now usually that’s when a sales person will start searching their store for a “somewhat” look alike ring, or they offer to order a ring for them. I smile, because I know I have an opportunity to make a ring that will be exactly what she wants and not be like any other ring. It will be made perfectly and uniquely for her.

We discuss the process of how to get started, how long it takes – usually six to eight weeks. Do they own stones they want to use in the design or will they be selecting a stone from our beautiful loose diamonds?

At some point, I have a private conversation with the groom to be, where we talk about budget and a date he is planning to pop the question.

Then I usually put on my counseling hat.

I remind him that this is where the pressure really comes in, make it special! She will remember this event the rest of her life and

all her friends will be asking, “How did your fiancé’ propose?” Don’t make yourself look bad in front of her friends. LOL.

One thing that I started doing a few years ago was sending pictures to the groom to be, as we reach significant points in the process of making her ring. We shape the ring, assemble it, drill the holes for the placement of the stones, engrave the ring, set the diamonds, and hand polish the ring to a glowing finish.

He gets text or emails enabling him to see the design being created in real time. We stamp the ring with the very prestigious stamp “handmade.”

Only jewelry made without any mechanized process can have this stamp.

Then we do something most jewelers don’t do, we stamp our name in the ring, a reminder of our commitment to you and your bride. Come in and visit. Let’s make a beautiful ring and memory that will last a lifetime. James Dupont

– James DuPont wwww.DupontJewelers.com facebook/dupontjewelers Trade - Restore - Redesign - Sell Dupont Jewelers on Forsythe in Monroe Makers of Handmade Fine Jewelry

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A Breakthrough Solution

New Option for Men Seeking Optimal Sexual Performance

BY JUDY WAGONER

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GING IS A FACT OF LIFE, BUT looking and feeling youthful is often something we “can” control. We are a generation of people seeking preventive and regenerative medicine, non-surgical aesthetic alternatives and sexual wellness solutions.

Professional Laser Center delivers on all these fronts.

Studies show one in two adult males between the ages of 40 and 70 will have sexual changes they consider problematic.

However, there are now solutions to sexual dysfunction that men deserve to know about. Sound Wave or Shock Wave Therapy is an astounding, new treatment for men which uses pulsed, acoustical waves.

The technology is technically known as “extracorporeal shockwave therapy” or ESWT. Pulse waves at specific frequencies deliver a mechanical force to the body’s deep

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tissues, which causes microtrauma to the area. In response, the body begins to repair the area with new blood vessels and nerve connections. The result is improved blood flow, and an increase in size, firmness and sensitivity.

Today, pulsed wave therapy is the latest protocol to address the root cause of erectile dysfunction, which is poor blood flow. It also helps patients who do not suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED), but simply want better performance overall. This nonsurgical, in-office procedure takes about 15 minutes to perform, requires no medications, and has been used throughout the world for ED. Most protocols require about six treatments. Currently, shock wave therapy is not FDA approved for ED alone, but there are multiple studies hailing its effectiveness, and U.S. trials are very promising.

Professional Laser Center offers shock wave therapy as a stand-alone procedure, or in combination with other integrative treatments, such as testosterone replacement and PRP. Human Identical Testosterone can be replaced with pellets, creams or injections.

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) via the P-Shot, is another way to improve penile circulation.

PRP regenerates and rejuvenates the body’s tissues, so they work better. During this procedure, we draw a patient’s blood and isolate the growth factors. The PRP is then injected into the penis with little to no pain.

Patients report an increase in size, sensitivity and performance.

By combining Shock Wave Therapy with Testosterone and PRP, Professional Laser Center can address and treat this most troubling problem. We know ED not only affects the patient, but his partner, as well.

Medical Director, Dr. Victor Zuckerman, has been offering hormone replacement to both men and women for almost a decade. He is a Diplomat in the American Academy of AntiAging. For more information on the myriad of procedures offered at our center, head to our website, www.professionallaser.com.

Why not start the New Year with a plan for better intimacy?

Ladies Night Out

December 14th and 15th Kim’s Younique Boutique and C’est La Vie Boutique hosted their first Ladies Night Out! Ladies Night included delicious food and drinks, discounts at both stores and door prizes. It was the perfect night to grab those last minute holiday outfits and gifts.

Both boutiques are located in the Bridge Point Shopping Center, and offer the latest in women’s clothing, jewelry, shoes and more!

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On the BayouScene 1 Felicia Fuller and Kimmie Ballance 2 Madison Collins and Kristina Lawrencer 3 Ro Bonner and Ro Givens 4 Connie Hubbard, Kim Liner and Becky Tidwell 5 Norma Turner and Carrie English 6 Karen Angell and Shirley McDonald

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BAYOU BUZZWORTHY ST. JUDE DREAM HOME

Tickets are now available for the 2018 Monroe St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway. This year’s home is located in Monroe’s beautiful Bayou Trace subdivision and is being built

by Brian Allen and BRACO Construction. In addition, just for visiting the St. Jude Dream Home giveaway house, you can register to win a custom design makeover valued at $10,000 courtesy of Sleepy Hollow Furniture. Tickets are $100 each and are available now at stjude.org/ give/dream-home/monroe.html, as well as Regions Bank and D&D Cleaners. Open house tours will begin on March 17th. The winning ticket will be drawn on April 22nd.

JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD

On January 16th, the administrative staff at Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School donned their ski goggles and winter jackets for a clever school announcement. Principal Lisa Patrick, vice principal Aimee Anthony and secretary Sue Blackford channeled Vanilla Ice with Funroe flair and their own rendition of Ice, Ice Baby to announce that school would be closed due to inclement weather.

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CHILDREN’S COALITION On Friday, January 19, the Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana hosted a ribbon cutting for their new space on Hall Street in downtown Monroe. Over the last 20 years, The Children’s Coalition has been working from various locations, but now they can offer their services under one roof. The new space features an Early Head Start classroom, Child Care Connections, a Family Resource Center and administrative offices. Children’s Coalition is also running a capital campaign called “Commit to the Bricks” where you can purchase bricks, memorial trees or memorial benches that go towards their fundraising goal of $100,000.

In addition to the new space, The Children’s Coalition also plans to build a playground and a family garden that will provide fresh food to the children in Early Head Start.

Two Great Gyms.

One Great Price.

CrossFit Iron Pelican and The Wellness Center

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ROSSFIT IRON PELICAN AND The Wellness Center have teamed up to give members an opportunity to branch out and try something new. For the price of $100 per month, you will get full access to The Wellness Center’s fitness classes, workout equipment, indoor heated pool, weight lifting equipment and all of their amenities, as well as the personal coaching and workouts from CrossFit.

For some, CrossFit might sound a little overwhelming or a bit scary. In truth, CrossFit is an awesome program for those new to exercise and looking for a place to start. Having a certified coach by your side throughout the workout ensures you have individual instruction and motivation.

This is how Tara Creech, CrossFit Iron Pelican manager, describes a typical workout for a CrossFit athlete, “First, you should know that there is a whole language dedicated to just CrossFit! Don’t be intimidated…even the

most seasoned CrossFitter has to Google the acronyms from time to time. At CrossFit Iron Pelican, our sole desire as your coach will be to make you the best version of yourself by providing instruction and motivation.

Our goal is YOUR goal. We will provide encouragement, but will never push you beyond your limitations. So whether you are an experienced CrossFit athlete or have never stepped inside a gym, our program can be adapted for you. When you enter our ‘box’ the first time, you will be met by both friendly coaches and members.”

“The ‘WOD’ – workout of the day – is posted the prior evening on our website and will be written on the board each morning.

Your coach will guide you through a series of warm-ups and then various strength and conditioning programs. Most movements have variations based on your level of fitness and each portion of the WOD is illustrated by the coaches, every time. If you need

additional instruction, we are available and will continuously critique your form to prevent injury and assure you get the most from your workout. The best part is that the other members are just as encouraging and helpful as the coaches. If you want personal training without the additional cost, this is the answer! It really is that easy to get started.

Show up, work hard and we can assure you that you will get healthier, faster and stronger.

That is my guarantee to you!” says Creech.

There is not a better time to get started on your road to fitness. CrossFit Iron Pelican will provide you with the personal instruction and encouragement you need to succeed AND getting a free membership to The Wellness Center is just the icing on the cake! Group fitness classes, steam rooms, showers, ladies’ only floor, free childcare, indoor heated pool, Yoga and Pilates classes, extensive cardio equipment and a well equipped weight floor are just some of the benefits awaiting you at The Wellness Center. You will not find another facility in this area that can provide a more complete fitness solution!

For any questions or interest please call 318.537.9254 or stop by 3201 Cypress St. in West Monroe!

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THE TANGIBLE HISTORY OF WONDERFUL THINGS Their life has been filled with beautiful works – of art and of service. Through diverse careers in art, journalism, higher education and ministering the Gospel, the Suttons have left their mark on generations of young artists, professionals and communities. For more than thirty years of shared experiences and efforts, Cheryl and Will Sutton are BayouIcons for the month of February.

ARTICLE BY MICHAEL DEVAULT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

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heryl Sutton’s life has been an uninterrupted exposure to “wonderful things,” whether she was learning about airplanes from her Air Force mechanic father or painting murals in her elementary school classroom. It was one of these wonderful things that would launch her on a path in life that would find this young, African-American woman from Washington, D.C. to help enrich the lives of almost every individual she’s ever met.

Across the table from Cheryl, Will Sutton’s life has followed an equally unpredictable and inspiring path. Growing up in a family of Louisiana, Will knew from an early age he wanted to be a journalist. Despite growing up in New Orleans, home to the Times-Picayune, one of the most storied papers in the nation, Will’s pursuit of the journalist’s pen would take him far from home, only to deposit him back where he began decades later.

The couple’s shared experiences, their mutual adoration for one another and the artworks that fill their walls, and their passion for helping others find their paths to wonderful things have woven together into a rich tapestry of experience and living that makes them, at once, two vibrant, professional individuals and a singularity, an intertwined, inseparable pair. For the Suttons, as you will see, life is as much what the world brings you, as it is what you make of it.

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“I think of myself as a citizen of the world–being from a world capitol and having the opportunity to live in different places,” says Cheryl, who grew up in the nation’s capitol but traveled the world with her military father before heading off to college. She credits her extensive travels as a young person with opening her mind to the world around her. “It really heightened my visual sense of the world, because I saw a lot of different places. I saw beauty everywhere.”

For Will, the beauty in the world starts with music. He attended St. Augustine High School in New Orleans, a school renowned across the country for its marching band. Will played clarinet, and though he knew he wanted to study journalism, he had some conditions for where he’d study.

“I knew I wanted to attend an HBCU, and I wanted to play in the band,” he says. “So, coming from St. Augustine, it was important that they had a band – and a very good one.”

In the late 1970s, admissions to schools in the Historically Black Colleges and Universities system was competitive. Though his father was on faculty at Dillard, a prominent HBCU in New Orleans, Will wanted to experience a bit more of the world. So he applied to Hampton University in Virginia, the university made famous by its engineering school and its close proximity to the NASA Langley Research Center.

When it comes to colleges with lineages, Hampton is a school that exists in a class alone. The alumni roster includes engineers, artists, writers, performers, musicians, scientists, theologians and scholars of the highest order. Comedian Wanda Sikes is an alumna, and so is NASA engineer Mary Jackson, who was portrayed by Janelle Monáe in the hit film Hidden Figures.

Other graduates include singer Dorothy Maynor and more than half a dozen NFL standouts. Martin Luther King Jr.’s mother, Alberta, graduated from the school in 1924. And civil rights trailblazer Booker T. Washington would spend a few years there before founding his Tuskegee University, graduating in 1875.

Hampton provided Will with the stimulation and education he needed to start a career as a journalist, which he did during his studies, holding both student internships and staff positions at a host of newspapers, including the Times-Picayune back home.

After stints at a half-dozen newspapers and with a comfortable, full-time job at a Gannett flagship newspaper in New Jersey as a staff reporter for the Courier-Post in Cherry Hill, he was offered a full scholarship and living stipend to pursue a master’s degree at the University of Michigan, one of the top programs in the world.

“It was a rather generous program, because it paid for tuition, room and board, books and a job,” Will says. “My path led me to leave Cherry Hill and head to Michigan on Labor Day weekend of 1977.”

He made the drive, pulled into Michigan, and then it clicked.

Something wasn’t right.

“I turned around and drove back to New Jersey, because I realized I was having too much fun,” he says. “I loved what I was doing and felt like it wasn’t the right time for me to go back to school.”

worker goaded him into a bet: the Philadelphia Enquirer had just posted The decision to return proved to be one of the most vital and a job opening in their newsroom. He scoffed at the thought. This was, impactful decisions he’d ever make, and it would set him on a path to after all, on the heels of the paper’s still-unmatched five year run of a series of events that would be completely unbelievable – had he not back-to-back Pulitzer Prizes, a paper where journalists could make a lived them. career with their pens. He agreed to the bet, At a house party just a few months later, he found himself drawn to a young woman who “Give back, I tell them. That not long after making a somewhat ostentatious had immediately caught his eye. His friends at of a telephone answering machine – a will be my reward. The rest purchase $500 expense in 1980. the party told him her name was Cheryl, and of the reward, I hope, to “The very first message I received was that there were two other boys in line ahead from Jim Norton, at the Philadelphia Enquirer, of him, and he’d have to wait his turn if he get in Heaven. But here, said they got my stuff and wanted to talk wanted her attention. on earth, I want to see you who “I did my time,” he says. “I had the to me,” he recalls. “The next thing I knew, they giving to others.” opportunity to chat with her – not enough were offering me a job. I was stunned.”

Together and apart for the next decade, time. But we had a mutual friend who told Will and Cheryl began beginning their lives Cheryl of my interest.” ~ Will Sutton together. Courtship, marriage, job changes The mutual friend told Cheryl that the came and went. And through it all, they young man she’d met was a professional, a southern gentleman, and “not someone she’d have to worry about.” continued to follow a path of their own forging.

Cheryl had studied art and technology in college at Trenton State With her friend’s assurances of the young suitor’s intentions, Cheryl College, and though she was talented, she knew that hers wasn’t a agreed to share her number. future in the creation of art but, rather, the business of art and artists.

“I had been placed in the friend’s zone,” Will says, with a laugh.

When Harvard offered her a fellowship in their art museums, Cheryl “That’s how I started down the path of beginning a friendship – leapt at the chance, following an opportunity that “really changed the because that’s all she wanted. Fortunately for me, it worked. We’ve been together ever since.” trajectory of my life.” At Harvard, one of the perks of employment and fellowship was access to fine art in the Fogg Museum permanent During his past three years, Will had continued to ply the craft of collection. a cub reporter and staff writer at the Courier-Post. One afternoon, a coWWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2018 121

“They loaned artwork from the Fogg Art Museum to the fellows and faculty, and even people in the community for the time you were there,” she says. “We lived with a Jacob Lawrence piece from the Great Migration period, which was just amazing.”

Lawrence was a painter whose parents had made the trek north, first to New Jersey and then New York, to give their family a better life than could be found in the postCivil-War South. His works rely on vivid colors to depict AfricanAmerican experience, and his paintings are often likened to the works of Picasso and other cubist masters of the era. The Lawrence painting hung in their home for the better part of a year, giving Cheryl her first experiences with living with and appreciating fine art and the depth that comes with it. Cheryl could plainly see this was her life’s work.

“I thought, ‘Okay, this is what I want to do,’” she says. “I wanted to help people live with art, of this quality, for the rest of my life. That became my goal.”

Cheryl and Will began collecting art from artists of local, regional and national importance.

Original artwork provide sensory experiences that take the viewer beyond even the best lithographs and giclées, forging a tangible connection between the creator and the consumer of the art. As she describes the experiences, Cheryl’s passion becomes more apparent.

“You can see their hand in the work, as opposed to a poster, which is is many times removed from that artist’s hand, the creator’s touch,” she says. “It gives you a closer connection to what’s created, what’s being said.”

After Harvard, Cheryl pursued fellowships at the National Museum of American Art and the Philadelphia Museum of Art – where Will had recently returned as a member of the Philadelphia Enquirer’s editorial staff. After completing her fellowship at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Cheryl joined the staff of a contemporary art gallery, again expanding her horizons.

“At the museum, I was primarily working with objects where the artist was no longer alive,” she says. “At the gallery, I got to work directly with the artists, which was exponentially more exciting, because I got to know both the work and the artist behind the work.

That just made my connection with them greater, because I knew the artists as well.”

While working at that gallery, Cheryl began to develop a depth of knowledge she draws on to provide guidance to young collectors, whom she encourages to begin collecting early and often. That process, she notes, has to be neither difficult nor expensive.

“I always suggest people start right in your backyard, at local colleges, local art galleries and local art museums,” she says. “There is so much ‘right there,’ and sometimes you just need to open your eyes wider and have that sense of awe.”

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like their peripatetic life had found the ground in which the travelers would finally put down roots. He had a great job at the Raleigh News and Observer, a McLatchy newspaper. They bought a house, enrolled their son in school, and began to integrate themselves into the community.

Will served on the state wildlife commission and helped Achieving the Dream in Chapel Hill. Cheryl continued to help broker art, culminating with the opening of her own gallery in Raleigh. It seemed like, finally, the Suttons were settling down.

Education had never been far from Will’s life – his mother was a kindergarten and first grade teacher, who eventually taught elementary education in college.

His father, the Dillard professor, rose to department head at Dillard, and eventually rose to the post of President of Mississippi Valley State University.

“Education was all around us in our home, with other relatives,” he says. “though I was in the profession of journalism, I was always around education through my own family, and through other ways, too, through consulting with and advising academic leaders about journalism and communications.”

He’d served on the board of the University of Maryland College of Journalism for twenty years, had gone back to Hampton to assist in their program as the Scripps Howard Endowed professor, and had developed an extensive network of journalism educators, students and industry professionals. He’d even become president of the National Association of Black Journalists.

“I realized at that point that education was going to be an important part of the next phase of my life,” he says. He was more right than he could possibly have known – and much sooner than he anticipated. A friend from the NABJ called in 2005 with a request.

Grambling University needed some help with a particular program and a problem. Will figured it was a two or three day assignment, the typical kind of consulting gig he’d grown used to through NABJ and his work with other schools.

“They had something a little longer than that in mind,” he says.

He knew they wanted at least a semester of help, more time than he thought he could give. Nevertheless, he presented it to his wife.

“Cheryl said, ‘Let’s do it.’”

At his wife’s prodding, they uprooted job, home, church, neighborhood and organization to go to a temporary job in Louisiana.

The Grambling job wasn’t the only reason, Will notes. After all, his father still lived in the state, as did numerous relatives. Their son was growing older, and the proximity would give them time to spend with his dad.

After the semester ended, as he and Cheryl were packing to return to their home and life in North Carolina, then-president Frank Pogue called to ask him for a few days before he left. Will had had too large an impact on the students and the program to let him leave. The school

offered him a permanent position, and again, he put the decision in his wife’s hands.

“She was all for it,” he says.

They closed out their lives in North Carolina, bought a house and settled into life in northeastern Louisiana, where Will is now director of communications for Grambling – where he continues to teach media ethics and law, journalism and public relations. Cheryl is still collecting art, displaying art, selling art and encouraging another generation of young artists.

Will and Cheryl are actively involved in the African-American arts and history community, supporters of the Northeast Louisiana African-American Heritage Museum, members of the Northwestern Louisiana Arts Council and active members of New Living Word Ministries. Will continues to provide his students with advice, guidance and a firm foundation in journalism – and he knows the reward he seeks from his efforts in the field.

“Give back, I tell them,” he says. “That will be my reward. The rest of the reward, I hope, to get in Heaven. But here, on earth, I want to see you giving to others.”

Cheryl’s giving to the community in her own way, with a nearly non-stop series of art shows at galleries and museums across the region. She has at least three hanging or going

up in the coming months, including a show at Grambling featuring Laticia Huckabee, a Louisiana artist. The show is titled “40 Acres of Gumbo Ya-ya,” and features the artist’s unique photography-mixed-media creations.

Another show, “Creating a Lasting Legacy,” will hang through June at the AfricanAmerican Museum, and she’s working on another show at the McKenna Museum of African-American Art in New Orleans, where she’ll give a lecture about what it took for her to found and create two museums in New

Orleans. Take note: Louisiana has become home for this D.C. East-Coaster.

“There are so many cultures in this soil, in the region, but a lot of it still remains,” she says. “That is unusual, because in other parts of this country – particularly in the Northeast, where I did most of my living – the art was created by a lot of transient people who didn’t remain for long. Here, they’ve been here for a long time, so that history is much more tangible.”

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Helping You Be Your Best

Kasey Witherington, Counselor at Healthpoint Center

BY KASEY WITHERINGTON, M.ED, LPC

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RE YOU LIVING THE BEST version of “you?” Is what you are doing each day working to build a better life? What’s holding you back from changing? These are questions I might ask during our first session. I approach therapy from a collaborative viewpoint.

Together, the client and therapist will build a therapeutic relationship that will produce positive solutions. I also encourage the client to become mentally and physically empowered by recognizing and changing their unconscious thoughts and ideas.

For the last seven years, I have approached my clients with many different theories; however, my main approach to therapy is person-centered or Rogerian.

Rogerian therapy is Humanistic in nature and believes that clients, with the right guidance, can find the best solutions for their lives.

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With a client focus from children to adults, I can cover a wide range of issues.

Some of the issues I can help with include: • ADHD • Bipolar Disorder • Borderline Personality • Career Counseling • Child or Adolescent • Coping Skills • Divorce • Emotional Disturbance • Family Conflict • Grief, Hoarding • Marital and Premarital • Men’s Issues • Mood Disorders • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) • Parenting • Peer Relationships • Play Therapy for Children

• • • • • • • • • •

Pregnancy, Prenatal and Postpartum Relationship Issues School Issues/Learning Disabilities Self Esteem, Self-Harming Sleep or Insomnia Spirituality Stress Suicidal Ideation Trauma and PTSD Women’s Issues

I am also a licensed school counselor, so I work with students who have behavioral concerns or need guidance on academic, career or college concerns. Please call Healthpoint Center at 318-998-2700 to see how counseling can help you live your best life. We are located at 1818 Avenue of America in Monroe. www.kaseywitheringtoncounseling.com Find us on Facebook: Kasey Witherington Counseling at Healthpoint Center www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/ kasey-gentry-witherington-monroe-la/357182 Insurance Accepted: Aetna, BCBS PPO, Vantage, United/Optum, Healthy Blue, LHCC, Medicaid

To Rollover or Not to Rollover?

Argent Advisors in Monroe Explains ARTICLE BY JUSTIN MAILHES

Roll your 401(k) balance to an IRA or keep the 401(k)?

This is a question most, if not all, retirees or people switching jobs will face. Most of the time, rolling to an IRA is the appropriate action, but not always. You should always speak with a financial professional before making your decision. Until then, here are a few things to consider.

Why Rollover to an IRA?

More Investment Options - An IRA gives you the option to have more customized financial advice on investments than a typical 401(k) fund lineup of 20 funds.

Control - With an IRA you decide who to work with, not who your former employer selects. If you have multiple 401(k) accounts from different employers, you can open a single IRA and rollover all the different 401(k) accounts to the single IRA. Once you

have reached 59 ½, it is easier to request a distribution from the IRA than it is from a 401(k).

Confidentiality - The IRA is yours. Your former employer no longer has access to your account information.

Why keep your 401(k)?

10% Penalty Avoidance - If you leave employment between the ages of 55 and 59 ½, you can normally take penalty-free distributions from the 401(k). However, if you roll to an IRA and need a distribution before you turn 59 ½, you may have to pay a 10% penalty.

Asset Protection for Larger Accounts Federal law shields your 401(k) assets from creditors, lawsuits and bankruptcy. IRAs generally carry protection to $1,245,475 and are governed by state laws.

Fees - Fees associated with the plan and IRA should be considered before making a decision. If an advisor wants to rollover your 401(k) into an IRA containing annuities, nonmarketable securities, or other high cost investment options, you might want to consult someone else.

Remember, if you have an outstanding loan in your 401(k), it will have to be addressed at your job termination. It normally involves paying it back or treating the outstanding balance as a distribution.

The rollover decision is an important one. Work with a trusted advisor who puts your best interest first. For that reason, we recommend using advisors who avoid transaction fees and commissions.

Why choose Argent Advisors in Monroe?

Our mission is to help establish, manage, and protect our clients’ financial plans, and we take that very seriously. The Argent Advisors team in Monroe has over 60 years of combined financial planning experience.

No matter where your objectives fall, we help our clients establish a definitive goal-oriented plan for current needs and for the future. If you have any question about your 401(k) account or any other financial planning need, please contact our office.

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Crawfish are Back at Cormier’s Delectable Dishes, a Friendly Atmosphere and More

BY MARY NAPOLI

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INCE MARCH OF 1989 LARRY Cormier has become something of a local legend in Monroe. He is the man behind one of the most popular dining establishments in the area, Cormier’s Cajun Restaurant. He offers much more than crawfish, and residents of Monroe, West Monroe and the surrounding area populate the restaurant to get their fill of the delectable dishes and friendly atmosphere that Cormier’s provides. The restaurant has built a loyal following over the years and is beloved by locals.

Cormier’s is well known for their crawfish, and for good reason. Locals flock to the restaurant during the season for the spicy seafood, uniquely seasoned to perfection.

Pound after pound of crawfish is enjoyed, along with buckets of beer. Children are free to bounce away in the jumper, while adults look on and savor their meal and visit with friends.

Everyone is happy at Cormier’s, it seems.

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Although crawfish are always a hit, diners can’t get enough of the other menu items Cormier offers. The pig sandwich is always popular for lunch or dinner. The mouthwatering meat is served on Gambino’s French bread and dressed with mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, onion and zesty vinegar cabbage. Cormier created the sandwich long ago when cooking with an old friend and local legend.

Cormier’s menu has something for everyone and offers many Cajun-inspired dishes to choose from. They are known for their flavorful chicken and sausage or seafood gumbo, as well as creamy shrimp bisque. My son Jamie’s crawfish etouffee is hard to beat, and the blackened fish remains popular. The jambalaya and red beans are menu staples, and Cormier shares that it is the spicy sausage he uses made in his hometown of Iowa that makes the difference in these traditional Louisiana dishes.

Cormier’s offers a popular catering service that provides food for large and small parties. In addition to boiling crawfish and shrimp on site, Cormier provides an incredible selection of seafood for catering events. Fried catfish and seafood buffets are often requested, as well as roasted pork loins, jambalaya, and chicken and shrimp fettuccine to feed the masses. Along with side dishes, bread and desserts, Cormier also provides decorated roasted pigs on occasion.

Cormier’s love of cooking for friends and family has also influenced the atmosphere that he has created at his restaurant. From the very beginning, he wanted to provide a place that catered to and attracted families. He often hears from customers from come back year after year as they pass through town on their way to different destinations. Cormier’s has become a family tradition for locals, as well as travelers.

“I never was a restaurateur. I just knew how to cook,” says Cormier. “We built it to be a good business with a good reputation. I enjoy what I do. I enjoy meeting people and cooking for them. We’ve been here for 29 years, and we keep on improving on what we have.”

Cormier’s Cajun Restaurant and Catering is located at 1205 Forsythe Avenue in Monroe. Lunch and dinner are served Tuesday through Saturday with dinner on Sunday during crawfish season. Call 318.322.0414 for catering information or find them on Facebook.

First National Bank Introduces a New Member to the Monroe Team Jake Branch, Vice President/Commercial Lender

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HE NEW YEAR MEANS NEW BEGINNINGS. FOR FIRST National Bank, it also brings a new face to our team. We are excited to introduce Jake Branch, as our Vice President/ Commercial Lender at the Monroe location.

Jake is no stranger to the area as he was born and raised in Monroe. Jake graduated from Sterlington High School and attended Louisiana State University, where he received a BS in Business Administration with a minor in Agriculture. Jake also has a Masters in Health Administration from LSUS and is a graduate of the Louisiana Bankers Association Leadership School. In addition to these educational achievements, he will soon receive credentials as an Accredited Financial Counselor.

Jake brings years of banking experience to First National Bank. He specializes in commercial and business banking, as well as agricultural lending. Jake currently serves on the board of the Richland Parish Chamber of Commerce and is active in the Monroe and West Monroe Chambers of Commerce. When asked about his new position, Jake replied, “I am thrilled to work for a bank that truly cares about the communities it serves. I have worked for corporate banks, and I have worked for community banks in my career. I can say with complete confidence that there is no substitute for the quality of customer service and care that First National Bank strives to give to every

customer. The truth is we are all human beings, and I am proud to represent a bank that treats its customers as such.” Outside of work, Jake enjoys spending time with his wife, Haley Bennett Branch. He is also a true Louisiana sportsman with a passion for hunting and fishing.

Jake will be a strong addition to First National Bank, as they continue providing a truly ‘Uncommon’ experience in our hometown.

When we say we are ‘Uncommon’, it means First National Bank is family-owned and locally-operated. All financial decisions are made right here in the communities we serve, not somewhere in another state. It starts here and ends here. The best part about doing business with First National Bank is that it helps our neighbors and economy flourish. Being ‘Uncommon’ also means that First National Bank is committed to making every interaction with our customers one that is noticeably different and more exceptional than any they have ever encountered.

We invite you to come meet Jake Branch, our newest Vice President/Commercial Lender at the Monroe location and to visit any of our other locations in West Monroe, Ruston, Farmerville and Arcadia. Find out first hand, why First National Bank is your ‘Uncommon’ Bank.

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Fashion Fusion 2018

Mark Your Calendars for this Year’s Event for the Cancer Foundation League

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VERY NOW AND THEN YOU’VE JUST gotta pack a bag, grab the girls, and head on a road trip.

Mark your calendars for an evening of fashion and fun, as we take you along on some of our favorite get-away places! From NYC to Nashville or your favorite beach, our area boutiques will show you the seasons hottest trends to make sure your suitcase is packed with fashion that’s comfy to classic chic!

Fashion Fusion 2018 will mark the eighth year for this outstanding showcase of art, dance and design. Featuring local talent and fashion in a high energy runway presentation, the event is truly a musical extravaganza you don’t want to miss! This year’s “Road Trip” theme promises to be as entertaining for the gentlemen, as well as the ladies. Our opening production of ”Hit The Road Jack,” featuring the Debbie Bourg Dancers, is centered around a custom-made mini replica of a ‘56 Chevy

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convertible. The energy and fun Route 66 vibe of the show will leave you tappin’ your feet and ready to pack your bags for your favorite vacation spot!

We are so excited to announce that proceeds from this year’s event will benefit the Cancer Foundation League of Northeast Louisiana. To partner with such an important organization in our community is truly an honor. Nearly everyone has been touched by this horrific disease. Many of us either firsthand or through a relative or friend know the anguish that a diagnosis of cancer can cause.

But perhaps most people are not aware of the financial ramifications of such a diagnosis.

CFL provides financial assistance to Northeast Louisiana cancer patients and supports the programs and services of the Louisiana Cancer Foundation. The League members are all volunteers, giving their precious gifts of time and love to raise financial assistance for cancer patients. CFL pays for medications,

medical supplies, transportation to and from treatments, lodging during treatments, nutritional supplements and even help with household bills. Every penny raised goes to helping NELA cancer patients and supporting programs of the CFL. By supporting this event whether through sponsorship and/or attendance, you will be making a tremendous impact on the much needed assistance to the people of our community who suffer from this horrible disease. Cancer shows no boundaries on age, race or gender.

For Sponsorship or Ticket Informatio, contact, The Cancer Foundation League Phone: (318)9661953 Fax: (318)966-1952 or DBK Dance & Performing Arts (318) 325- 0120

Glow Body Sculpting

The Benefits of Glow LED Light Body Contouring Treatments

BY BRITTANY SOTO

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I, FRIENDS OF NORTH Louisiana! We are so excited to be back in the pages of BayouLife! First, I want to thank you, as readers of this great magazine, for being so supportive of our new business venture here in Ruston, LA, Glow Body Sculpting! In this month’s article we would like to focus mainly on body contouring and what our Glow LED Light Body contouring treatments can do for you!

So, everyone wants a dream figure, right?! And sometimes things get in the way – a busy schedule, a sedentary life style, not the best diet, lack of water intake, sleep, hormones and the list can go on and on, but it all comes down to LIFE. Life can sometimes get in the way of the goals we have made for ourselves. Although we realize that everyone does not fit this mold, the majority of us have some problem area that we feel like needs

some attention. Well, whomever you are or whatever it maybe, we are here to help YOU, become the best version of YOU, that YOU can be!

Glow LED Light Body Contouring treatments are for anyone looking to lose inches and fat in any area of the body. Our machine consists of 4 small paddles and 16 large paddles, and we are able to cover large areas, such as stomach, thighs, buttocks, chest (mainly in male clients), love handles, etc. With total of 512 square inches, we can cover a large area in just one treatment. If you only want to target a specific area we can do that as well! Within the paddles there are two wavelengths, the first tightens skin, increases collagen production and decreases the appearance of cellulite, and the second wavelength actually goes into the fat cell liquifies the fat and releases it into the body to

rid through its own natural lymphatic system.

Each session is 15 minutes on the lights and 10 minutes on a vibe machine, so you are in and out in 30 minutes! We provide an all-natural and non-invasive approach unlike those that freeze and kill cells or heat and kill cells, we warm the cell and liquify the fat… think of it as a large grape shrinking to a very small raisin!

We listen to our clients, and we help them achieve the look they want from the beginning. We start with a consultation, explaining the service, guide them in small lifestyle changes for during treatment, before measurements and pictures (if you chose), and then we get started. We can not wait to see you in Glow Body Sculpting! Visit us today at www.glowbodysculpting.com or call us at 318-224-8884! We can’t wait to hear from you and GET YOU IN THE GLOW!

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Congrats to Newly Engaged Ladies Helpful Hints to Plan Your Special Day

BY DENISE HARDY

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F I MAY, I’D LIKE TO START THIS article with a few helpful tips for planning your special day.We know how important it will be for you the rest of your life. Take it one step at a time, and your day will be everything you ever imagined. To guide you through it, we have a few listed suggestions: STAY ORGANIZED

If you are not an organizer, find one that you trust and hire that person. She/He will become such a daily part of your life, no matter how large or small. It will have to be someone that you totally trust and that “gets” the style and vision you have.

We suggest a professional over someone that may already be involved in your wedding, such as a Bridesmaid or Maid/

Matron of Honor. If your budget does not allow for a wedding coordinator, maybe a special family member such as an aunt or maybe a close friend or co-worker that can help you keep on track.

TRUST YOUR FLORIST!

This is one of the most important people for your event. They have to know your budget, your style and most importantly your vision. They are the team that puts the “icing” on the whole venue with flowers and décor. They need to be readily available to answer your questions and guide you through the process.

DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF

In the whole scheme of things, no one will know if the small things you had talked

about are part of your day. If things don’t go as planned, don’t stress; it’s still your day, so enjoy it. Be present in each moment.

WHEN SOMETHING GOES WRONG

And guess what, chances are, something will go wrong, no matter how much you plan. Don’t stress; there is ALWAYS A PLAN B! This event is an expression of yourselves, but it’s not all you will ever be. It is just beginning! Some of the best moments will be the ones you have not planned at all.

BEST TIMELINE

Here at Petals and Pearls, we have found the best timeline is to start between 6-8 months. This gives you time to book your main vendors, to create your guest list and to implement your plan.

We truly LOVE what we do and take each wedding personally. We can work with any size budget and make it stretch. We would love to be a part of your special day and all of the organizing. We offer a free first-time consultation for your event. Give us a call today to set up a time that will be best for you.

Happy Wedding Planning, - Denise

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quite a drive to get to see her. There was no I-20 then, just Hwy 80. His car was old, but he kept going to see her nearly every weekend.

I think a lot of their dating was with all her family around. The Turners were a fun group, and I’m sure he had himself a great time with them as well as trying to “court” my Mama.

I guess he pulled ahead ahead of the competition.

The letters to him started in 1949. I have a stack of them that she wrote him during the weeks they were apart. The last one dated was in 1951. They aren’t mushy or romantic but full of “the news of her day” and a lot of them say, “ please take care of yourself and don’t work too hard” “can’t wait to see you this weekend.”

“All my love”

Simply Lou All My Love article and art by Lou Davenport

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n 1946, my Daddy was discharged from the Navy in New Orleans. He caught a bus back to Bastrop and was greeted warmly by his big family. He was just 21 years old.

Meanwhile, an 18 year old brown-eyed beauty, my Mama, entered Louisiana Tech University as an education major. She had grown up in Simsboro, surrounded by a big family, too.

In a few years, as fate would have it, he saw her. I’ve never been able to tell if she saw him or not. She always said she didn’t. But, my Daddy was a good looking man and I think it would have been hard for her to miss seeing him, as he was working on the same street.

She was walking back to a boarding house she was staying while she finished her practice teaching in Mer Rouge. He’d taken a job as a surveyor and was “shooting lines” on the very street she came down each day. He said he followed her all the way to the place she was staying through the transit lens, saying she was “sashaying” down the street. She flat

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denied that she ever “sashayed” anywhere!

As small towns are, my Daddy knew one of the girls staying there. He found out who my Mama was, and I assume was then “properly introduced” to Miss Carolyn Turner.

And, the rest, as they say, “is history.”

Well, sort of.

From what I remember my Mama telling me, she was not overly impressed with this blonde, tanned former sailor boy. I think she thought he was “nice,” but I got the impression he didn’t “bowl her over” with his charm. I believe he was “smitten” by her on that very first day. She told me she had been seeing two other guys back home in Ruston. Hmmmm....

I’m sure he didn’t know he had competition, nor did he even care. Daddy was stubborn and hard headed, and he was not going to give up trying to win this beautiful lady over. (She did tell me jokingly once, that she “had to marry him to get rid of him!”) At some point in 1948, he got her to go out with him. She was living in Ruston again, having completed her practice teaching. So, he had

She mentions in several letters that they’d meet in Monroe to go to the wrestling matches. My Uncle Sam would come with her ,and several of Daddy’s friends from Bastrop would join them. Those seemed to have been held on Tuesday nights, and she’d always want to know if he made it home safely.

Sometimes she’d catch a bus in Ruston, and he’d pick her up in Bastrop. He must have been late a few times, because she cautioned him “to better not be late!”

In several of the letters, I got a peak into life at the Turners! In one, she describes “everybody is out on the porch pestering Mama except me.” (Knowing my Mamaw Mae, she was “pestering them right back!”)

One of my uncles had worked for Daddy the week before and told my Mama how much money Daddy had won shooting dice. (Daddy was good at it, too, a real “ramblin’-gamblin” guy!) Here was her response: “just wait til I get hold of you. I’m going to turn you every which way but loose!”

Mama had spoken! But of course, she ends the letter “Well, good-bye honey, and you better be good. I love you lots, All my love”

Mama took a teaching job in Delhi. My Daddy’s sister and brother-in-law (My Aunt Cye and Uncle Beeker) lived there and she saw a lot of them. My cousin Johnnie was about 3 years old, and Mama adored him. And, he adored her right back. In some of her letters she talks about her and “Bonnie” (Aunt Cye’s real name) going to the movies and how she sees some of Daddy’s other family. I think this was when things were getting more serious between them.

The next school year for some reason or another, my Mama started teaching in Minden at a small school called “Evergreen.”

I remember hearing her talk about the family she boarded with and liking them very much.

They had a little boy and I think she took up a lot of time with him. My Mama was a “kid magnet.” And, she loved them right back.

The “commuting” romance went on.

Mama would ride a bus to Bastrop, or Daddy would drive to Minden. Sometimes Mama’s brothers took her to see Daddy; other times, his brother took him to see her. That had to have been difficult. But, in one letter my Mama wrote “Dear Sweet Pea, Thought I’d write you and apologize for hurting your feelings” “All my love”

Here’s where the story gets interesting! I know my Mama loved my Daddy very much, but I also know that he was quite a lady’s man. I think she had a few doubts about them being ready to get married. According to my Mamaw Mae, there was a guy very interested in my Mama, and Mama saw him occasionally.

It was nothing serious, but Daddy must have found out and confronted her! In her next letter, she writes,

“Everybody thought the ring was mighty pretty, and I have had to answer a million questions today.” and ends the letter with, “All my love.”

After reading that, I thought my Daddy finally figured out he “best put a ring on it!”

But, my Mama told me the real story. She never wrote it in her letters, but I can hear my Daddy saying what she said he said. He had found out about her “friend” and pitched one of his famous “hissy fits!” He gave her an “ultimatum” that it was “him” or “the other guy!” He went so far as to tell her if she didn’t marry him that she’d never see Johnnie again. (that was my cousin she loved so much) I believe every word of it! And it worked!

Plans were made for them to get married at my Aunt Cye and Uncle Beeker’s house in Delhi. My Mom, Mamaw Mae and Uncle Sam brought her to Monroe to meet Daddy in the lobby of the Francis Hotel. He was with my Uncle Punkin and a couple of friends. They had gotten there early of course and ducked into a bar for “pre-wedding” beverages before meeting the bride to be.

Time ticked by. He was late. My Mama was getting impatient. She finally announced that if he wasn’t there in 5 minutes, she was going home! My Mamaw Mae added she meant it, too! Well, who comes sauntering in but my Daddy and his “groomsmen!” All I can

say it is a wonder that I am even here. Mama must have really loved him and my cousin, Johnnie, too!

I know for a fact she did love him dearly, loved him until the day she died. She’d get aggravated with him at times, because he was a real character. But, they both just complemented each other and somehow, it worked!

A little over a year after they got married, they had me. My Daddy just knew I was going to be a boy, but, ha ha, I fooled him! But, my Mama let him name me after one of his old girlfriends! My Mama had to have been an angel in disguise not to have “knocked his block off!”

I found these letters over 30 years ago.

The first time I read them all, I cried and put them away. This time I felt like I was seeing both of them as the young “kids” they really were. It’s hard to picture our parents as they once were. But, they grew up, and I couldn’t have had two better parents. I still think my Mama was a true angel, but, don’t we all? My Daddy could act like a real spoiled brat, but can’t we all? They were two imperfect but good people that met and fell in love. And all I can say to all of you is, “All my Love,”

– Lou

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Each year, BayouLife is proud to support the St. Jude’s Dream Home program to support the efforts of the world’s premier childhood cancer center. For 2018, we decided to give you a glimpse of how your contributions help people right here at home. These are just a few stories of northern Louisiana families impacted by the work at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

For each one of these families, there are thousands more just like them…right here.

“No chi l d should die in the daw n of life.”

– Danny Thomas, founder – St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital

Tickets are now available for the 2018 Monroe St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway located in Monroe’s beautiful Bayou Trace subdivision. Tickets are $100 each and are available now at stjude.org/give/dream-home/monroe.html, as well as Regions Bank and D&D Cleaners. Open house tours will begin on March 17th. The winning ticket will be drawn on April 22nd.

Thanks

to these photographers fo r do nat ing t he ir t ime t o phot o graph t he s e s pe cial fa m i l i e s:

Annie Barnett, Angela Groce, Molly Hill, Br ice Jo ne s , Mar t in G Meye rs and St aci Albr it t o n Mi tc h e l l .

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Sam

Jennifer Routon was five months pregnant with her daughter when she first noticed something amiss with her son, Sam. Barely a toddler, Sam spent time with doctors and within the span of a week, the Routan family was turned upside down.

Sam was diagnosed with Stage IV high risk neuroblastoma—an aggressive cancer that forms early, usually when the victim is still a fetus. Doctors at home told Jennifer, and her husband, Drew, that their child’s only hope would require them to go to St. Jude’s. Within hours, Drew was on a life flight, with Jennifer trailing behind in a family member’s car.

“Sam was airlifted from Monroe to Memphis on Wednesday, Nov. 12, and he began chemo on Sunday,” Jennifer tells BayouLife. From the moment the Routons arrived in Memphis, they knew they were in the right place. “St. Jude’s met all of our needs, provided housing, food, travel and care for 13 months for Sam – and us.”

Doctors at St. Jude’s pegged Sam’s odds at 50/50, and survival would require aggressive treatment.

That meant chemotherapy, radiation and two tumor resection surgeries. Sam would also undergo intensive immunotherapy and an experimental stem-cell transplant. Throughout their ordeal, Jennifer knew Sam’s odds were getting better every day.

“I've never felt more at peace when walking through the doors. I also attribute that to God hearing prayers!” she says. “I think all the staff are special, because they all give the same sense of hope for all patients no matter the diagnosis.”

For parents like the Routons, in their darkest hours, they find hope and peace in the most unlikely of places. Jennifer recounts how St. Jude’s walked them through each step of Sam’s treatment with complete transparency. It’s the same transparency with which the hospital approaches its fundraising efforts.

“They tell you what they are spending their money on, and they follow through with it,” she says. The money not only pays for treatments for children, it also pays for inventing new treatments, and the doctors and staff exist on the cutting edge of innovation. “They are also working to research and do what’s best for their patients.”

Today, Sam’s in complete remission. He returns to St. Jude’s every six months for a checkup. In almost four years of treatments and visits, the Routon family has never seen a hospital bill or borne the expense of travel for their son’s treatment. And progress is being made.

During Sam’s 13 months of treatments, the survivability of his particular cancer improved from 50 percent to 75 percent.

Photos courtesy of Angela Groce.

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Hannah Grace

Catrina Jones isn’t your typical mother, whose medical experience has been limited to doctoring scraped knees and making emergency room visits for broken arms. For Catrina, providing medical care to her daughter, Hannah Grace, is one of her primary missions in life.

Hannah Grace was born with a rare genetic condition called Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, or TSC. A multi-system disorder, individuals born with TSC can develop benign tumors on the brain and other vital organs. To say that Hannah Grace had grown up with doctors would be an understatement. But one of those doctors saved her life.

“When she was 10 years old, we went to her local pediatric neurologist here in town for a routine followup,” Catrina says.

“She had been on several seizure medicines over the years, and they were weening her off of one.”

Between the doctor’s office and the drive home, doctors determined something was wrong. Her labs came back abnormal, and Catrina arrived at the house to two messages from the neurologist and Hannah Grace’s pediatrician. Both messages were the same. Something’s wrong. Get her back immediately.

One month to the day after those first abnormal labs, Hannah Grace was in the back of an ambulance, en route to St. Jude’s with a diagnosis: acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

“I’ve been dealing with doctors all of her life, so when she got that diagnosis, I knew that look,” she says. “When we got to St. Jude’s, I was overwhelmed. Just the sight of this facility and how huge it is, I was flabbergasted. I couldn’t believe my child was here.”

With care and compassion, St. Jude’s staff helped walk Catrina and Hannah Grace through the intake process, introduced them to her care team, and began assessing what her needs would be – and what the needs of her family were.

Moreover, Hannah Grace’s case was particularly challenging in light of her TSC.

“When Hannah first got there, they didn’t know how to treat her,” Catrina says. “They’d never had a patient with Tumorous Sclerosis. She had tumors on her brains and kidneys.”

Hannah Grace’s treatment was delayed by two weeks.

Her doctors had to develop a novel approach to treating her ALL, and then they had to present her case to the medical board, who would ultimately give the thumps up or down on treating her. They developed a coordinated plan between St. Jude’s and Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, their sister organization.

“Luckily, they said yes,” Catrina says. Two months later, her daughter was in remission. For her treatment at St. Jude’s and Le Bonheur, the Jones family never received a bill. And they never will. Hannah Grace turned 16 in January.

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Photos courtesy of Brice Jones.

Dylan

Dylan McElduff was a junior in high school and a standout baseball player when he began to notice his game was off. Though he knew the cause, he didn’t bother to tell his parents.

“He started experiencing double vision while playing baseball,” Cindy says of those earliest days of symptoms. “He didn’t tell me or my husband. Instead, he just wrote it off.”

Within months, though, the double vision turned into headaches. By September, Dylan was in St. Francis for an MRI. Doctors found fluid on his brain, which increased intracranial pressure – the source of the headaches. But the fluid was due to a far more insidious cause. Dylan had a germinoma tumor on his brain.

“When we found out in Monroe that he had a brain cancer, I immediately started praying ‘Please get him to St. Jude’s. Please let them take him,’” Cindy says. “You hear how wonderful it is, and to get him there, in the best place possible to save his life, it was an answer to that prayer.”

Thursday afternoon, Dylan was diagnosed. Friday morning, he was in Memphis. Dylan went from St. Francis to Le Bonheur, where doctors installed a shunt to alleviate the pressure – and much of the pain of the headaches. Then, it was across the road to St. Jude’s for cancer treatment. For more than forty years, Le Bonheur and St. Jude’s have been partners in the fight against juvenile cancer.

Patients in need of non-cancer treatments are shuttled to Le Bonheur, and after treatment at Le Bonheur, they’re returned to St. Jude’s. The facilities are even connected by a subterranean tunnel equipped with the infrastructure necessary to transport ambulatory patients, emergent case, and even children who are enclosed in isolation tents. As is the case with all St. Jude’s patients, parents are never presented with a bill from Le Bonheur for the treatment their children receive there.

She notes St. Jude’s staff strives to provide patients and their families excellent medical and psychological care, but they don’t stop there. They do everything in their power to make sure the kids live as normal a life as possible while their there.

Cindy and Dylan spent time with doctors, who assured them his condition was treatable. Though rare, germinomas are treatable with chemotherapy and radiation, and the cancer responds well to those treatments. Roughly 90 percent of germinoma diagnoses end in full remission. Two years later, Dylan is working at UPS and looking forward to a full life. Cindy puts it another way.

“They saved my son’s life, and they save others,” Cindy says.

Photos courtesy of Staci Albritton Mitchell.

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Ava

Jennifer Leoty was pregnant and doing housework one morning when she overheard a story on The Today Show about how social media had saved a child’s life. While perusing pictures of a friend’s children, a user noticed a white reflection in one of the kids’ eyes. That child was later diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a cancer that affects the nerves and tissues in the eyes.

The Today Show and retinoblastoma were the farthest things from her mind a year later, when Ava was six months old and cooing for the camera, Jennifer recalls.

“I didn’t think anything of the story,” she says. “But when Ava was six months old, I was taking pictures of her in our house, in low light, and I saw those white reflects.”

She immediately took her daughter to the pediatrician for a referral to Haik Humble, where Dr. Haik confirmed the diagnosis. Ava had bilateral retinoblastoma – tumors on both eyes. Dr. Haik told Jennifer that St. Jude’s wanted to see Ava immediately. Within a week of noticing the white haze in her daughter’s eyes, Jennifer walked through the doors of St. Jude’s.

“We didn’t get there until about 1 a.m.,” she says. “We were overwhelmed, but we were brought in and got to talk to some of the overnight doctors who evaluated her.”

Case workers also provided Jennifer with keys to their room on campus, a list of appointments the next morning with oncologists and eye doctors and social workers, and they assured her they would do everything they could for Ava.

With retinoblastoma, tumors are typically situated in one eye or the other. In such cases, doctors simply remove the eye, leaving the patient with a single, but healthy and fullyfunctioning eye. For bilateral retinoblastoma, the treatment isn’t nearly that simple. Doctors must treat the tumors and save both eyes, lest they lose both and render the patient blind.

Ava underwent a diagnostic exam under general anesthesia, conducted by an oncologist and an ophthalmologist.

Together, they presented Jennifer with Ava’s treatment protocol. They would do chemotherapy every three weeks, coupled with an exam – always under general anesthesia – during which they would also administer chryotherapy to help freeze any new growths they discovered.

On her first birthday, Ava received her final chemotherapy treatment. Further exams followed every six to eight weeks for several years. As time passed, the time between exams also increased.

“It’s a relief to know when I have a question, I can immediately call her doctor – and he’ll answer,” Jennifer says.

Today, Ava visits St. Jude’s once a year, and her medical team is always on vigilant standby.

If ever Ava’s cancer returns, no matter how old she is, for the rest of her life, she will return to St. Jude’s for treatment.

And she’ll never, ever receive a bill.

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Photo courtesy of Martin G Meyers.

Cason

On the morning of July 4, 2015, Caitlin Crow awoke as she did every morning. She went to the crib, where her son, Cason, was sleeping. Just 18 months old, Cason had had a big night the evening before, with a barbecue and fireworks, the typical southern Independence Day.

“He woke up and his left eye was swollen and kind of sluggish and droopy,” she says. “He had several mosquito bites from the 4th of July, but we took him to the doctor.”

His pediatrician wasn’t sure what was happening with the infant, but he knew he needed another set of eyes to provide an assessment. They called in Haik Humble, where Dr. Gregorian immediately realized something wasn’t right.

A doctor in Shreveport diagnosed Cason with Horner’s Syndrome and ordered an MRI. That’s when radiologists found it: a tumor in his neck, wrapped around a bundle of nerves.

Two days later, the family was walking into St. Jude’s.

“I looked at my husband and said, ‘We’re going to be okay,’” Caitlin recalls. “It was a sense of relief. It was nothing short of amazing, how well we were treated and the sense of urgency with them, as they tried to figure out what was going on.”

They still didn’t know what the tumor was, but doctors assured her they’d do everything they could to first find out what was wrong and then to find a solution. Even though they were still largely in the dark, Caitlin had hope.

“At that time, we didn’t know what it was,” she says.

“We knew it was a tumor, but we still had to figure out what kind.”

After a biopsy, doctors determined the tumor was a neuroblastoma. A second surgery to remove the tumor was not fully successful. The disease was wrapped around Cason’s carotid artery, which meant a complete excision was impossible. Chemotherapy followed. All the while, Caitlin’s and Cason’s needs were met.

“When people help and donate, they’re giving a family the ability to stay together,” she says. “They don’t have to worry about a bill. They don’t have to worry about money.

Parents can focus on their child and helping make them better.”

Though he was diagnosed with a Stage 2B tumor, doctors gave Cason a good prognosis. After chemo and surgery, the tumor was less than half its size. More importantly, it showed no signs of growth. That was March of 2016. Today, he and his mother make trips to St. Jude’s every four months to make sure the tumor doesn’t recur.

Eventually, they’ll move to six months, then a year. Caitlin not only encourages others to contribute, she supports the hospital herself.

“We will give every last penny we have to this place,” she says.

Portrait courtesy of Annie Barnett. Family portrait courtesy of Molly Hill.

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Tulips and Toddies

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On Thursday, January 18, the Monroe Garden Study League hosted their Tulips and Toddies fundraising event at the home of Sue and Walter Sartor. Guests were serenaded by a jazz saxaphonist on the second floor balcony as they entered the party. Beautiful displays of tulips and French 75 champagne toddies met them in the foyer. Passed hors d’oeuvre trays were carried by beautiful girls with flowers adoring their heads. A garden market was available for guests to purchase books, vases, soaps, honey, note cards, bulbs and more, with all proceeds benefiting the MGSL’s community projects.

Past community projects include signage at Forsythe Park, recycle bins for Neville High School and Bendel Ballpark, and several projects in downtown Monroe.

The group is currently planning a variety of projects that include seeding the Hwy 165 corridor with native wildflowers.

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Dr. David Barnes and Bubba Rhymes Judge Wendell and Ashley Manning E ric and Sherry Mahaffey D r. David Barnes, Amanda Averett, Kaye Spillers and Charlotte McNeal 5 E mily Martin, Susie Husted, Kathryn Joyce and Hope Robertson 6 Nancy Williams, Karen Stinson and Mary Hardwick 7 Bob and Lori French, Stuart Scalia and Carole Swander 8M argaret Barr, Dianne Cage, Satchie Godfrey and Janelle Snellings 9V ince and Lana Forte, Louis Ray 10 Cynthia Travis, Jennifer Parker and Amy Wood 11 Patty Fuller, Ginny Yatco, Teresa Shelton and Lisa Nelson 12 Courtney Tomlinson and Rachel Dolecheck 13 Ann Breard and Carolyn Barnes 14 J imbo Stephens and Al Peterson 15 C ynthia Ryan, Sue Sartor and Debbie Stockstill 16 Chap Breard and Michael Echols 17 Katherine Flowers and Stacey Majure 18 M argaret Ellis Goff, Meghan Sherman, Lucy Sartor and Rebecca Robinson 19 Ashley Manning, Sue Sartor and Ashley West 20 Leigh Ann Goff and Karen Cooper 21 Diane Paschall and Bevelyn Hunter 22 Jessica Dolecheck and Lily Ryan 23 Hope Anderson and Alan Gallagher 24 Johnette Sellar and Steve Mintz 25 Thad and Jessica Ryan 26 James Moore and David Kennedy

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200 year old heart pine beams original to the home were found beneath the den’s dropped ceilings. A prized Georgian stool, crafted in 1780, was an Antique Alley treasure that now adds extra seating in the den, and the Century blue leather chesterfield sofa in the den was found at John’s Trading Company.

Mise En Place Mediterranean

GREGORY HUDGINS REVIVES THIS LONG-NEGLECTED MEDITERRANEAN-STYLE HOME IN THE HEART OF SOUTH MONROE. THIS PETITE STUCCO JEWEL BREATHES LIFE WITH HUDGINS' UNIQUE VISION. ARTICLE BY MARÉ BRENNAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS

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WHEN A HOUSE CALLS YOUR NAME, the sound is palpable in your heart. Gregory Hudgins had experienced the pull of the petite Mediterranean Revival home on historic St. John Street for years. For a favored client, Gregory led the renovations and interior design on the stately Georgian home next door. The owner, a local entrepreneur, had fortuitously purchased the long-neglected Mediterranean-style structure next door in hopes of restoring it to become a pool house.

Fast forward to an aligning of the stars. At the same point that Gregory sold his own West Monroe home, his client had a change of landscaping plans that would mean that Gregory’s dream of restoring this little stucco jewel would be realized, but now he was his own client!

IN THE BEGINNING.

After falling into disrepair, the home was a shell of its original self. To say there was a front door was a misnomer. The “front door” opening had been half boarded shut with a blanket to facilitate coming in and out of the space. The home was condemned, with no running water and a tub, which had fallen through to the first floor from the second floor bathroom. Over the years, ceilings had been dropped, fluorescent lighting added and key windows boarded over.

It was hard to see the floor for the mess, but the bones and pedigree of the home shown like a diamond in the rough. When most would have run, Gregory signed up with a vision and the mantra that “a man’s home is his castle.”

Early on in the renovation, part of the original front door was found, reconstructed and painted Farrow and Ball’s French Grey with the original Craftsman-style hardware and door knocker intact.

Brick walls in the den were uncovered and the dropped ceilings were removed. Gregory got a call from his contractor to get to the jobsite quick when 200 year old heart pine beams original to the home were 144 FEBRUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

found beneath the den’s low ceilings. Heart racing moments like this were de rigueur for the project. Original quarter-sawn oak floors and original pine flooring upstairs were refinished to their previous glory.

With the home sited to take advantage of the sun and its natural energy, Gregory explains that the construction of the home’s walls of brick with plaster on the inside and outside creates a fortress-like quality, giving the interiors the feeling of being inside a wine cellar, even at the peak of summer.

A technophile, Hudgins embraced the newest smart technologies when wiring his home to maximize comfort and enjoyment. From his phone, Gregory can control lighting and sound through the use of smart bulbs, dimmers and integrated sound systems, which the designer himself installed. In addition, guests can get their “science nerd on” when Hudgins brings the Celestron telescope out onto his upstairs office balcony. Mind you, this is industrial, NASA-strength technology that universities regularly employ in their studies of the heavens, which allows you to connect to WIFI and smart phones. You can then stream images of the cosmos direct to your phone!

A Louisiana Master Gardener, Gregory is ready for the next phase of the renovation, which will take place outside with the addition of native grasses and Mediterranean style plantings to accentuate the beauty of the exterior, when the weather turns more hospitable.

Built in 1927 by Herbert Land, Gregory shares the home’s built-in passion for mise en place. “Every space is important in a home this size,” explains Gregory as he walks through the foyer. “For instance, the space underneath the original butler’s pantry is six feet deep and retreats under the stairs. Not a drop of space was wasted. The architect, who designed this home, fit all the pieces together like a 3-D puzzle.” The dining room’s china closet with glass doors was designed to maximize space under the stairs.

Inspired by south of France coastal chateau interiors, Gregory

chose a subdued color scheme using Farrow and Ball paints throughout the home’s interiors and exteriors.

“Farrow and Ball colors have great values that reflect light. Because they are formulated in England, they are very conscious of light. I believe that is the Farrow and Ball strong point. Their paints magnify the light in rooms,” says the designer in the know.

Grey and white checkerboard tiles soften the palette in the foyer and kitchen and are repeated in the upstairs bathroom. A coffered ceiling treatment in the kitchen adds to the Côte D’Azur vibe. During the renovation, a hidden window was uncovered.

Following suit with reimagining the kitchen with the most modern of conveniences, Gregory collaborated with Sandy Sartor from Key Millwork to make sure form followed function while keeping style at the fore. Gregory knew he wanted tall, lighted cabinets to showcase his well-loved crystal collection. “I use it everyday,” he adds. “There are no ‘everyday’ drinking glasses.” The kitchen, though small, manages to carve out space for a coffee station, which retains an open feel through the use of bronze mesh on the sides, and a fabric draped pantry. To add space for cookbooks, Gregory added a trio of marble shelves from World Market. A still life by Adam Davenport and an historical painting enliven the space. Gregory chose marble subway tile as a backsplash. A gilded antique French mirror, sourced from Nick McKinney, creates an unusual focal point behind the gas range. A pair of modern swing arm sconces provide task lighting above the stove.

Working with Key Millwork, Gregory designed tall, lighted cabinets to showcase his well-loved crystal collection. A still life by Adam Davenport and a historical painting enliven the kitchen space. A gilded antique French mirror, sourced from Nick McKinney, creates an unusual focal point behind the gas range.

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FINDING DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH.

Hudgins could write a book on treasure hunting.

The demi-foyer alone could be a case study in trusting your instincts. Gregory’s friend, antique dealer Nick McKinney, says that objects resonate with the aura and energy of the people who have owned them before and can call for you to find them. So vast are these types of finds throughout the home that one has to wonder what special clairvoyant talents Hudgins possesses. The Waterford crystal pendant light that hangs in the foyer was a $20 Trenton Street find. According to Gregory, the light had to be totally reworked and rewired, but the end result is sparkling.

The early Roman marble antiquity was discovered The Eccentric in West Monroe. Can you imagine the designer’s adrenaline rush when the price was less than a typical trip to Target? The Century chesterfield sofa in the den was found at John’s Trading Company. “Something just told me to stop by John’s Trading that day. I had been looking for a blue leather chesterfield sofa for so long, and there it was, only $200!” says Gregory of his unlikely find. “The sofa had been in a lawyer’s office.” A prized Georgian stool, crafted in 1780, was an Antique Alley $12.50 treasure that now adds extra seating in the den. In the master bedroom, a bolt of golden Fortuny fabric found at a local garage sale has become exquisite drapery and a coordinating bedcovering. The bed itself was a junktiques find, which Gregory painted a muted, grey-green and added gilded accents.

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IT'S ALL IN THE MIX.

Hudgins, who is known equally for his interior design and event planning prowess, finds entertaining is a natural in his new home. “The flow of traffic during a party is effortless, despite the lack of square footage. Hallways are generous, and double French doors lead gracefully from the dining room into the den. A pair of arched doors lead from the den to the outdoor veranda with its original terracotta tile. The latest cool weather allows Gregory and friends to cozy up to the firepit and plan their next adventures.

In the den, Gregory’s eponymous style is fully on display with Art Deco and Louis XIV forms mixed with midcentury Modern and Contemporary accents. Between the two arched doors, the English Deco secretary is filled with well-curated objects and favorite books. A corner bar is created using an armoire sourced from Traditions. Additonal bottles and glassware are housed in an antique “dollhouse” which tops the armoire. Hudgins is known for his ability to find unique storage and make it chic. Vintage Century chairs are covered in a bold, striped Duralee fabric.

Gregory’s collection of vinyl records finds its place in a mid-century Modern buffet. The artfully stacked Saarinen bookcase was found at a junk store in Texas. A Belgian tapestry reinforces the chateau-like vibe and hangs above a breakfast nook.

If the den is the heart of the Herbert Land/Hudgins House’s public spaces, then the dining room is the soul.

Chippendale chairs and a newly acquired French trestle table take their inspiration from coastal French cottages.

“I used the natural and raw wood, yet we still have beautiful Louis XIV forms, just not gilded. The French marble topped console was a piece I purchased from Nick McKinney, who now has a shop in El Dorado,” says Gregory.

Atop the console are a pair of Barry Dixon dragon lamps, a German silver and French brass embellished box and a pair of French cartouche candlesticks. An ebonized and gilded, arched mirror and pair of German silver ramshead sconces from Munich add luminosity to the dining room corner along with a work on paper by noted artist Meredith Pardue.

Directly upstairs, the tub and shower walls are lined with white subway tiles with hexagon tile accents sourced from Lowe’s. A ledge and pony wall of marble create a spa-like atmosphere.

On either side of the master bed, Chinoiserie cabinets, commissioned paintings by Doug Kennedy, and traditional lighting create beautiful vignettes. A ‘King’ Fantasy chair, whose matching ‘Queen’ is located downstairs in the den, was a find from Cure in New York City. The upstairs hall and bedroom walls are painted Farrow and Ball’s “Slipper Satin,” a charming, creamy white that flatters all skin tones.

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The French marble topped console in the dining room was a piece purchased from Nick McKinney. Atop the console are a pair of Barry Dixon dragon lamps, a German silver and French brass embellished box and a pair of French cartouche candlesticks.

Glass masks from Paraguay can become sconces with the addition of lighted candles.

The “Queen” Fantasy chair was sourced from Cure in New York City. The “King” chair is located in the master bedroom.

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Just down the hall, Gregory’s home office is a study in organization and creativity. The designer added custom built-ins and included a coffee and wine station for entertaining clients. The office walls are painted Farrow and Ball’s “Pigeon.” The home’s laundry room is located next to the bath and features a state-ofthe-art stacked washer and dryer for the ultimate in convenience.

An Adam Davenport oil painting, “Tears and Taxes,” and an antique map from the 1600s hang near Hudgin’s desk.

ART IS ESSENTIAL.

If you know Gregory, you’ll know that not only has he been active in the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council for many years, but has been an avid arts supporter and collector, serving currently as President of the Twin City Art Foundation/Masur Museum of Art. Gregory’s art collection includes a large rhinoceros painting by Lissy Sanders Compton, which hangs in the foyer. The den features work by Gaeb Cardinale, Meredith Pardue, Adam Davenport, John Jude Palencor, and a large, Surrealist oil by Ghislain Fernando that Hudgins secured at a Belgian art auction. In the corner hangs a Coroli bought in Florence in addition to three glass mask sconces from Paraguay, one of Gregory’s remembrances from Inside Indigo.

TIME KEEPS ON TICKING.

What you may not know about Gregory is his love of timekeeping mechanisms, otherwise known as clocks or watches. “I’m a clock fanatic,” he says of his obsession. His collection includes a Seth Thomas turn of the century clock, a 421 day clock made in West Berlin in the 1970s, an adorable mechanical cuckoo clock made by Italian company Pintaloni in a surrealist manner, and an atomic clock that makes science geeks swoon.

Gregory Hudgins is a Louisiana Tech alumni, whose next projects include the interiors for a new restaurant by Chef Cory Bahr, tons of weddings and a several interior design projects from here to Naples, Florida and beyond. His motto is “to maximize the inherent beauty found in our daily lives. It is my goal to make each home and space customized to fit each individual client or project.

My focus is on the individual and how I can help him or her achieve a beautiful, healthy, organized and livable environment.” Past projects and incredibly creative floral arrangements by Hudgins have been frequently featured on the pages of BayouLife.

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SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS

BY THE CHILDREN’S COALITION FOR NORTHEAST LOUISIANA

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dolescent reproductive health is a critical, yet often neglected, issue in Louisiana. This is evidenced by the fact that Louisiana has some of the highest rates of sexually transmitted infections (STI) and teen births in the country. In 2013, Louisiana ranked first in the nation for gonorrhea diagnoses and second for chlamydia. Young people, ages 15-24, made up 72% of all chlamydia diagnosis and 67% of gonorrhea diagnoses in the state. In 2016, the northeast Louisiana region had the 2nd highest gonorrhea rate in the state—the majority of cases were young people under the age of 25.

Iberia Watley, MS, is the Program Monitor for the Office of Public Health/STD Program.

She has worked in STD services since 1995. As the program monitor she coordinates the Regional STD/HIV task force for the Monroe area and Shreveport area. The task force has been instrumental in changing legislation to allow for STD screening in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy; removing prior authorizations for medication that treats syphilis and STD education; medical provider education; and coordinating pop up STI screening events and STI testing in public schools. This past January 150 FEBRUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

presented as part of the Coalition’s Parent Speaker Series “Time to Geaux Talk” about teens and STIs in northeast Louisiana.

Q: Why is it important for teens and their parents to know about STIs? A: Most people do not know a lot about STIs until they get one. STIs are infectious diseases that spread from person to person through oral, anal and vaginal sex. STIs can affect young men and women of all ages and backgrounds who are having

33% of all syphilis diagnoses occur in young people ages 13-24 years old. sex — it doesn’t matter if they’re rich or poor. In 2017, 33% of all early syphilis diagnoses occurred among persons 13-24 years old.

Q: What’s the difference between an STI and an STD? A: An STI is a sexually transmitted infection, and an STD is a sexually transmitted disease. STDs and STIs are often used interchangeably as synonyms, but they technically mean different things. An infection is often the first step of a disease and

occurs when either bacteria, viruses or microbes enter the body and start multiplying. The disruption of normal body function or structure, especially when signs and symptoms appear, is considered disease. Regardless, we are still referring to the same set of conditions.

Q: How can I be sure my teen won’t get an STI? A: There is a lot of wrong information about sexually transmitted infections passed around among youth and older adults, such as: you can look at your partner and tell whether he or she has an STI; or you can avoid STIs by having oral or anal sex. The only way to be 100% sure you won’t get an STI like syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea or HIV, is not to have of sex. But if you do decide to have sex, you’ll need to stay informed and learn what’s true — and what’s not.

Q: How will I know if my child is at risk for STIs? A: Anyone engaging in any sexual act is at risk for an STI. Parents should become aware of resources available for education and treatment purposes, so they can share this information with their children as a resource in addition to parental support.

Louisiana OPH has a website with which contains accurate information and resources on STI health: Louisianahealthhub.org Q: When do I need to start talking to my child about sexual health?

A: Each parent needs to determine when to talk to their children about sexual health and to what degree. Considering the number of young children who are sexually abused, as parents and as the community-at-large, we must begin conversations with our children as early as possible about the difference between good and bad touch.

Q: What can I do to help my child if they have an STI? A: If one suspects they have an STI, they should get it addressed immediately. Their local medical provider, whether pediatrician, family practice physician, urgent care or OB/GYN, are capable of diagnosing and treating STIs. The local parish

health unit is another good source for treatment and education. Incidentally, young people ages 13 and older are able to access reproductive health care without parental consent. We encourage children to inform their parents, but if doing so is a barrier to health care, it’s important they know how they can access care if needed.

Q: What is Louisiana doing to address the high rates of STIs among youth in our community?

A: An STD/HIV Regional Task Force has been organized in each region of the state by the Louisiana Office of Public Health (OPH), including the Monroe area, to focus on reducing these high rates of STDs and HIV across the state. To participate, contact Jeff Toms at Region 8 (Monroe) Office of Public Health, at 318-361-7227 or Iberia Watley, at 318-676-7472 or by email at Iberia.Watley@LA. GOV

RESOURCES The website GeuaxTalk.org: has conversation starters to help you talk to your middle school or high school teen about tough topics like Sexual Health and Puberty, Healthy Relationships and Mental Health and Bullying (https://geauxtalk. org/conversation-star ters/).

The site also links to resources that provide you with timely information on a variety of topics related to sexual health and ways we can get the conversation started to increase sexual health education in our communities.

Jan Daniels, Youth Development Director at the Children’s Coalition, works with local agencies and experts to provide accurate and appropriate information to youth.

Call Jan at (318) 323-8775 or go to www. childrenscoalition.org to learn more about upcoming programs and resources.

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Thomas Baby Shower On December 16, 2017, Arabella Moore along with 21 others hosted a fabulous White Christmas themed shower for mom-to-be, Analeise Thomas and her soon-to-arrive baby girl, Austin Adair.

Guests visited while sipping on specialty Mimosas and Bloody Marys and indulging in the over-thetop brunch menu created by Deanie Baker. Pork tenderloin, smoked salmon canapés, baked fruit and turkey salad were just a few of the amazing hors d’oeuvres that were enjoyed by all. Analeise wore a beautiful ivory blush kimono-style gown and received wonderful gifts and stunning outfits from Feltman and more for Adair to enjoy in the coming years. The atmosphere was relaxed with generations of family and lifelong friends catching up and sharing beautiful advice pending newborn bliss. To end the spectacular event, Analeise’s mother, Amanda Reeves, sang a lullaby that brought on the tears.

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Ascent Monroe

Wraparound of Northeast Louisiana Launches New Name

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n January 18th, Wraparound of Northeast Louisiana launched its new company brand. The new name, Ascent, and tagline, Life.

Elevated., better reflects the company’s passion for helping others and provides an uplifting message to the people they serve.

Ascent’s strives to elevate people from where they are today to where they can be tomorrow.

Wraparound started as a small nonprofit in 2012. Since that time, the 3 combined locations- Monroe, LA, Houma, LA and Memphis, TN, have provided support services to nearly 3,000 individuals. The Houma and Memphis locations will roll out the new brand this coming week. Each location is unique and the services they provide, while similar, are also different. A primary area of focus for the Monroe office is on youth, ages 5-21, who are at risk of being placed out-of-home or in an alternative school due to complex social, behavioral or mental health issues.

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“Our passion is to see families break cycles, move from conflict into unity, and turn hopelessness into empowerment,” said Curtis Eberts, Executive Director. “The name Wraparound is nationally thought of as a process, which was a point of confusion along with the common misperception that we wrap cars. Plus, our organization is growing with multiple locations and we are expanding our services beyond just wraparound services.”

The Ascent brand is more than just a name and a tagline. It represents a strong sense of values where we do what we say we will do. It believes in the importance of community where lasting change can be created. It means we are a loving advocate for those who need us.

“Our mission is to make a difference and create lasting change in families and individuals, so they are successful, and communities are stronger,” said Sara Strader, Director of Clinical Services. “We believe that seeing people for who they are and not

identifying them for that one behavior can shift and change our community.”

In addition to launching the new brand, Ascent Monroe also provided a demonstration of its new cutting-edge health and wellness tools known as Biofeedback and Neurofeedback. The processes help individuals become aware of what is going on in their body and may be used to improve health performance and the physiological changes that often occur in conjunction with changes to thoughts, emotions and behavior.

Research findings demonstrate that this training is helpful for symptoms associated with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Migraines, Sleep Disorders and Stress. Neurofeedback can also help maintain and increase brain performance, such as: increased concentration and memory, increased creativity and problem solving, and reduction in performance anxiety.

“When a person is made aware of what is happening in their body, they can learn to change it. Think of it as an exercise for the brain,” Eberts said.

For further information about Ascent and the services we provide, visit www. ascentlife.org.

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Unwrapping Valentine’s Day The Legends Behind St. Valentine and Some of the Most Popular Gifts for Your Love | article by Michael DeVault

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mperor Claudius II had a problem: he wanted soldiers, and he needed them married to their jobs. So he issued a decree. Men in the Roman army would no longer be allowed to marry. Unable to embrace their loves, forlorn lovers across the city fell into despair.

A young priest recognized the injustice of this decree. He ignored Claudius’ rule and began consecrating bonds in secret. Hundreds of couples sought him out, desperate to seal their love in marriage. When Claudius found out, he was furious that the young priest had so brashly dismissed an imperial decree. In a rage, he ordered the young priest executed.

That priest was named Valentine, or so the legend goes.

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate your love with tradition and just a little bit of folklore, as we unpack for you the legends behind some of the most popular Valentine’s Day gifts. Your love will definitely appreciate that objet just a little more when you share with them the story behind it.

O my Luve is like a red, red rose That’s newly sprung in June; – Robert Burns

One idyllic afternoon, the Greek goddess Chloris took a walk in the woods to admire her creations. The goddess of flowers, she reveled in the aromas and sights of the delicate buds in the spring afternoon sun. Lost in her thoughts and in a world of her creating, she was shocked and

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frightened when she discovered the lifeless body of a beautiful nymph. Chloris was captivated by the nymph’s serenity and her beauty, even in death.

So moved by the creature’s beauty and the tragedy of her loss was Chloris, she transformed her into a flower.

Another goddess witnessed Chloris’s compassion for the now-transformed nymph. She was at once enthralled and jealous of Chloris’ gesture.

Not to be outdone, Aphrodite vested the flower with an unrivaled beauty. Word of the new flower’s beauty – called a rose in honor of Aphrodite’s Eros – quickly spread. Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility, fell in love with the flower, upon which, besotted, he bestowed a sweet, pungent nectar. At last came the Charities, who observed this act of largess and gave the rose charm, joy, and brilliance.

Forever since, the red rose has been the symbol of love – and the charm, joy, brilliance, beauty and sweetness love brings.

Sweets for My Sweets – Chocolate’s Guilty Intent

Courting and Valentine’s may seem like they go hand-in-hand, but what’s a rakish young lad to do when his amorous attentions fall upon a young lass who’s less than interested? Enter a generous offering of decadent, silky chocolates.

Throughout literature and history, chocolate and lovers have been…entwined. That’s probably because almost as soon as the Aztecs discovered the savory cocoa bean they realized it had an amorous effect.

Chaucer celebrated the delicacy in The Canterbury Tales, and that great lothario Cassanova called it “the elixir of love.” It seems that, no matter how far back we go, chocolate was there, helping our unfavored young Romeos win the favors of their chosen Juliets.

These days, chocolates aren’t so much celebrated for their perceived aphrodisiac qualities as they are for their decadence. Ganache, crème, tarte, milk or dark, when it comes to Valentine’s Day, you’d best not come home without a heartshaped box.

“A diamond is forever.”

– Frances Gerety

If you’ve ever stepped foot in a jewelry store or watched an advertisement on television, chances are you’ve seen or heard tale that diamonds are forever. Ironically, that foreverness hasn’t been around, well, forever.

Enter Frances Gerety, an ad-copywriter in an agency in New York in 1947. Diamond sales were slumping amid a wave of post-war pragmatism.

People had money, but why waste it on frivolity?

Single, young and hopelessly romantic, Gerety penned the slogan and in just four words revolutionized the diamond trade.

Almost overnight, it seems, every engagement demanded a diamond, a symbol of the suitor’s love, which would be forever. What else “forever” would come out of the story? Gerety’s empty ring finger. She never married and died thirty years later a spinster.

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Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!

The 35th Annual Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade Ready to Roll Through the Twin Cities

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article by Michael DeVault

or the 35th time, tens of thousands of revelers will crowd sidewalks, curbs and parking lots, braving the possibility of cold weather or even a bit of rain, all for a chance to scream, “Throw me something, mister!” and wave their hands at feather-boaed, bead-wearing tossers on a float. That’s right. It’s time for the 2018 Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade, which is set to roll Saturday, February 3, 2018.

This year’s parade is much earlier than in previous years because Mardi Gras itself runs much earlier than in previous years. That’s because Ash Wednesday, the Catholic holy day that precedes Fat Tuesday, falls earlier. Just because the parade comes early, though, doesn’t mean the Krewe of Janus event will be light on revelry.

As with previous years, the 2018 Krewe of Janus parade will close out a day-long celebration that begins that Saturday morning with the Krewe of Janus Kids’ Parade, to be held at Pecanland Mall around the carousel. Registration and lineup begins at 9 a.m. and the parade commences at 10 a.m. This year’s theme is “Back to the 80s,” and children are encouraged to put on their best versions of the decade.

Because of generous sponsorships from Centric, Pecanland Mall, The Radio People, Macaroni Kid and SimpliciTees, the Krewe of Janus Kids’ Parade is a free event. Kids up to age 10 are invited to come out and take part.

A little while later and across town in West Monroe comes the Krewe Paws Pet Parade, a real crowd pleaser. Fabulous, four-legged friends will be decked out in their “throw me something” finest to strut their stuff and raise money for spay and neuter services for their needier 4-pawed friends.

The pet parade begins at the corner of Commerce and Wood Streets in West Monroe. Registration begins at 11 a.m., and while viewers are

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waiting for the parade to start, there’ll be face painting and games for children. The judges will get their say at noon, followed by the pet parade at 1:30.

Following the pet parade, revelers are invited to visit shops and celebrate carnival in Monroe-West Monroe style, all while they wait for the main event: the 35th Annual Krewe of Janus Parade. This year’s theme: Janus Relives the 80s.

The parade is set to begin at 6 p.m., which will be right at dusk on parade day. The route starts at 1118 New Natchitoches Street in West Monroe. Floats will travel up Natchitoches Street and turn onto Trenton Street, where the parade will make its way to the Lee Joyner Bridge before crossing into Monroe.

After the parade crosses the river, it’ll make the right turn onto Walnut Street for the downtown swing, which sees it pass through Monroe’s historic downtown and gallery district before returning to Louisville Avenue for its longest run, from 3rd Street to its finish at the corner of Oliver Road.

The route takes the parade through more than a dozen distinct communities and provides revelers with a variety of authentic carnival celebration experiences. This year’s Grand Marshals are King Janus I and Queen Janus I Creighton Chandler and Kay LaFrance-Knight, in celebration of the parade’s milestone anniversary.

King Janus and Queen Janus XXXV are Keith and Rhonda Joyner.

Dukes include Lee Sawyer, Greg Sims, Tim Spillers and Eric Summarell.

Queen Janus XXXV will be tended by duchesses Suzette Sawyer, Melloney Sims, Rachel Spillers and Blake Summarell.

For more information about the 35th rolling of the Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras parade, visit www.kreweofjanusonline.com or find them on Facebook.

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Calendar of Events For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com February 1 Downtown Gallery Crawl

Start February off with another cool Crawl in downtown Monroe and West Monroe! As we enter the Mardi Gras season, it’s the perfect time to support your creative community and have a blast in our 10 galleries on Art Alley, Antique Alley and S. Grand in the 318. Make sure you grab a Passport and then head to Flying Tiger Brewery to claim your Crawler Perk! Fine art – food – live music. There’s no better place to be than the #downtowngallerycrawl.

Downtown Monroe and West Monroe DeSiard and Trenton Streets, Monroe and West Monroe Hours: 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Cost: free Phone: 318-503-5125 February 2 Dancing with the Louisiana Stars

Louisiana Delta Ballet is putting on its annual Dancing with the Louisiana Stars fundraisers.

This dancing competition, based on the popular Dancing with the Stars TV series, will be held at the Monroe Civic Center at 7 p.m. Dancing with the Louisiana Stars pairs ‘local celebrities’ with dancers from the Louisiana Delta Ballet.

Monroe Civic Center 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Hours: 7:00 p.m.

Phone: 318-329-2225

February 3 Krewe of Janus Children’s Mardi

Gras Parade

Complete with beads and floats and Mardi Gras fun at Pecanland Mall’s Center Court.

Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. and the first 100 participants receive a goody bag!

Pecanland Mall 4700 Millhaven Road, Suite 2000, Monroe Hours: 10:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.

Cost: Free Phone: 318-322-4635 12th Annual Krewe of Paws Mardi Gras Pet Parade

See a twist on the traditional Mardi Gras festivities with pets of all sorts in costumes and floats, and, of course, plenty of beads along their parade route in Antique Alley!

Antique Alley 100-400 blocks of Trenton Street, West Monroe Hours: 1:30 p.m.

Cost: Free Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade: Janus Relives the 80s

Join us for Mardi Gras fun in Downtown West Monroe and Monroe as lighted floats and marching bands parade through the Twin Cities.

Monroe-West Monroe Louisville Avenue and Trenton Street, Monroe-West Monroe Hours: 6:00 p.m.

Cost: Free DRJ Mardi Gras Block Party featuring the Stooges Brass Band

Downtown River Jam is throwing a party along the Krewe of Janus parade route with Neat, Live Oaks Bar and Ballroom and Flying Tiger Brewery. There will be a stage set up at the corner of North 3rd and Pine with the legendary Stooges Brass Band providing the soundtrack along with Jordan Sheppard kicking off the show at 6 p.m. There will be

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beer samples provided by Choice Brands, Inc. and food available for purchase. Live Oaks will have 90’s cover band The Hollow Decks kicking off at 10 p.m. after Downtown River Jam ends.

Downtown River Jam 515 N 3rd St, Monroe Hours: 6:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Krewe of Allegro Mardi Gras Ball

It’s time to laissez les bon temps rouler in Ruston! The Krewe of Allegro invites you to the 19th annual Mardi Gras Ball & Silent Auction! Don’t miss the social event of the season and fine evening out supporting the arts culture of our area!

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: Ruston Civic Center Admission: $65/$40 Info: (318) 255-1450 or www.dixiecenter.org “Party Gras” The Official Mardi Gras After Party!

On Fire Productionz Presents “Pardi Gras!” the official Mardi Gras After Party at Willie’s Duck Diner in West Monroe. Hosted by DJ T-Bay-B. DJ PHIL of the Ricky Smiley Show. For Tickets or Table Reservations call 318-791-8029.

Willie’s Duck Diner 125 Constitution Dr, West Monroe Hours: 9:30 p.m. -2:00 a.m.

Cost: $10 Phone: 318-807-3825 February 4, 11, 18 and 25 Pokemon Tournament

Pokemon Tournament with prize support. Family friendly environment. Please contact

Geeked Out Gaming with any questions.

Geeked Out Gaming 401 Natchitoches, West Monroe Hours: 1:00 p.m.

Cost: $5 Phone: (318) 855-6627 February 8 Beer and Bards

Beer and Bards takes place on the second Thursday of every month at Enoch’s Irish Cafe and Pub. Enoch’s asks for readers from all walks of life whether they be students, teachers, published authors or just the casual connoisseur of short fiction and/or poetry from within the community, the state, or anywhere in the world! Anyone with questions or who wishes to read can reach Jack Heflin, ULM English Professor and Beer and Bards Host, by either sending a message on the Beer and Bards Facebook page or contacting him directly at heflin@ulm.edu.

He appreciates as much advanced notice as possible, but he’s very understanding and accepting toward last minute volunteers!

Enoch’s Irish Pub 507 Louisville Ave, Monroe Hours: 7:00 p.m.

Cost: Free Phone: 318-388-3662 February 9-11 Living Way Missions Conference 2018

“To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might BY ALL MEANS save some.”

-1 Corinthians 9:22. Join Living Way Apostolic Church for their first ever Missions Conference, “By All Means.” Their goal in this event is to let God remind you of His plan and purpose for you: that we, through Him, might save some.

Living Way Apostolic Church 108 W. T. Hemphill Drive, West Monroe

Hours: Feb 9 at 7 p.m. to Feb 11 at 11 p.m.

Phone: 318-387-3979 February 10 Lazarre Challenge Disc Golf

This is a SANCTIONED Fundraiser Tournament for The Southern Nationals Pro Championships. Registration from 7:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m., Players meeting 9:00 a.m., Tee Off at 9:30, Second Round 1 hour after last card is turned in from first round.

Get those Southern National’s Points!

Lazarre Park Corner of Hamilton and Thompson, West Monroe Hours: 7:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.

Cost: Pro: $40, Advanced: $35, Intermediate: $30, Rec/Nov: $25 Jr: $20

Caesar Sings Nat “King” Cole

Don’t miss pops concert featuring the smooth, baritone vocals of Irvin Caesar as he sings the classics of Nat “King” Cole and many more. Enjoy the concert Hosted by Monroe Symphony Orchestra from a reserved table and bring your own spread. A cash bar will be available and the dance floor will be open! Visit caesarjazz. com for more information.

Monroe Civic Center 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Hours: 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Cost: General Admission $33.72, Pops Table $50 Phone: 318-329-2225 Ruston Mardi Gras Parade and Festival

Bring the family out to downtown Ruston to celebrate Mardi Gras with a festival and parade! Railroad Park will be filled with activities for the kids, vendors, food trucks, and live music beginning followed by the

Mardi Gras parade!

Time: 4:00 p.m.; Parade 6 p.m.

Location: Railroad Park Admission: Free February 16-18, 23-24 Smoke on the Mountain

Smoke on the Mountain tells the story of a Saturday Night Gospel at a country church in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains in 1938. The show features two dozen bluegrass songs played and sung by making its return to performing after a five-year hiatus. Pastor Oglethorpe, the young and enthusiastic minister of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, has enlisted the Sanders Family in effort to bring his congregation into the “modern world.” Though they try to appear perfect in the eyes of a congregation who wants to be inspired by their song, one thing after another goes awry and they reveal their true - and hilariously imperfect natures. by the evening’s end, the Sanders Family have endeared themselves to us by revealing their weaknesses and allowing us to share in their triumphs.

Strauss Theatre Center 1300 Lamy Lane, Monroe Hours: 7 p.m. Thursday - Saturday and Sunday 2:00 p.m.

Cost: $30 for Adults/ $10 for Students plus tax Phone: 318-323-6681 February 16-18 Nourish U Weekend Workshop

If you’re a woman who’s too busy taking care of others to take care of yourself, this is the weekend workshop for you!

Hosted by Shannon Dahlum, of Octane Training, and Dana Milford, of for His temple family foods, at the beautiful Hamilton House Inn in Antique Alley. Spend the weekend rejuvenating yourself with nourishing food for both your body and your mind.

Hamilton House Inn 318 Trenton Street, West Monroe Hours: Feb 16th- 5:30 p.m. - Feb 18th- 12:00 p.m.

Phone: 318-366-2412 February 17-18 Homebuilders Expo

Don’t miss out on the NELA Homebuilders Expo at the Civic Center. Shop a wide variety of iIndoor and outdoor furniture and accessories, appliances, décor, insulation, roofing, lawn and garden equipment and supplies, lawn fencing, animal control fencing and much more!

Monroe Civic Center 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Hours: Saturday 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m., Sunday 11:00- 5:00 p.m.

Phone: 318-387-6795

Pre-party with food, drinks and film talk at 5 p.m. in the Dixie Theatre’s garden.

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: Dixie Center for the Arts Admission: $5/$3 students Contact: (318) 255-1450

February 18 22nd Annual Bridal Beginnings

Brides and their guests are invited to meet local photographers, caterers, wedding planners, floral designers and many more wedding and bridal service providers at the 22nd Annual Bridal Beginnings Show. Visitors will be able to stroll through the various exhibits, taste samples of wedding menus and cakes, see the latest in wedding fashion for brides, grooms and the entire wedding party and talk with photographers, videographers, entertainment and more. Brides can also register for many door prizes.

West Monroe Convention Center 901 Ridge Avenue, West Monroe Hours: 12:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Cost: $10 Phone: 318-396-5000

February 23-24 North Louisiana Quilters Guild 2018 Quilt Show

Come enjoy this Quilt Show and its array of vendors.

Monroe Civic Center 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Hours: 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Phone: 318-329-2225

February 21 ULM Wind Ensemble

The ULM Wind Ensemble, directed by Derle Long, presents a Spring concert. Free and open to the public.

ULM Brown Auditorium 700 University Ave., Monroe Hours: 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.

Cost: Free Phone: 318-342-1568

Enjoy your stay in MonroeWest Monroe!

We at the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitor’s Bureau hope you have a great stay here!

Please feel free to call us at 800-843-1872 if you have any questions. You may also stop by our offices at 601 Constitution Drive, West Monroe for brochures, coupons and additional information.

Visit www.monroe-westmonroe. org for information about events in Ouachita Parish and visit www.rustonlincoln.com for events in Lincoln Parish.

February 22 NCLAC presents “Deej”

NCLAC is partnering again with Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers to present a series of documentaries and fiction films. This film tells the story of non-speaking autistic child, DJ and his journey as a high school senior and young college student.

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