BayouLife Magazine January 2018

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JANUARY 2018

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32 / GOING FOR GOLD How the Dogged Pursuit of Athletic Glory Put Olympian Hollis Conway on the Path to a Lifetime of Service 56 / BAYOU OUTDOORS Rod Haydel’s Game Calls, Founded Over Four Decades Ago, Continues to Evolve 78 / BUILDING A HEALTHY BODY Shannon Dahlum Gives Tips and Tools on How to Build a Healthy Body in the New Year

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92 / DRAWING INSPRIATION BayouArtist, Leigh Buffington, is Grateful to be a Part of Such a Strong Community of Artists and Art Enthusiasts 102 / FEED YOUR INNER ATHLETE Teriyaki Grill in Ruston Serves Healthy and Flavorful Dishes 118 / FITNESS FOR HEALTHY LIVING BayouLife talks to six fitness gurus about their routines for healthy living.

136/ THE GOOD DOCTOR As a Physician and Great Supporter of the Arts and Education in Our Community, Dr. Terry Tugwell is This Month’s BayouIcon

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146/ REDISCOVER RELAXATION Re-learn How to Re-lax and Powerhouse in 2018 Through These Positive Lifestyle Changes

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BayouLife

APPY NEW YEAR FROM

the crew at BayouLife Magazine.

It seems like 2017 flew by and I’ve hardly thought about what my New Year’s resolutions would be. Last year, I made an effort to eat better and I enlisted the help of a personal trainer to get me in shape for swimsuit season. I did really good until the month of November and then the wheels fell off. I know that I’ll attempt Whole30 again in January, and try to work off the extra five plus pounds I’ve gained over the last two months – but, there are plenty of other things I’ll add to my list before January 1st.

Health & Wellness is the theme of this month’s issue. The new year marks a time for fresh beginnings and healthy living. and we’ve gathered information to help you on your quest for a healthier lifestyle.

On pages 78-83, Kay Rector met up with Shannon Dahlum to get some healthy habits to adopt in the new year. Shannon also provided three of her go-to recipes – all with key nutrients to build a better body.

Rediscover relaxation is the theme for Vanelis Rivera’s article on page 146-149.

Vanelis talked to local experts and got tips on the best ways to re-learn how to re-lax and powerhouse in 2018 through these positive lifestyle changes. From the Danish art of hygge to acupuncture, this article is a must-read for those struggling with the wear and tear of a hyperactive lifestyle.

I’m a little biased about this month’s BayouIcon. I met Dr. Tugwell in 2008 when I moved back to Monroe and was lucky enough to have him through the births of both of my daughters. Dr. Tugwell is an avid, albeit sometimes silent supporter of many non-profit organizations in our area, he is a well-respected physician and

1201 Royal Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 Phone 318.855.3185 Fax 318.855.4645

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a strong supporter of the arts in north Louisiana. He has impacted the lives of thousands and is our January BayouIcon.

Read his story on page 136.

I met the Malone family a few years ago when their daughter, Karlee, modeled for the magazine. When we were on set, Kay Malone brought by a huge tray from Teriyaki Grill for our production group. We fell in love with the food and make sure to stop by whenever we are in Ruston. Read about Teriyaki Grill on pages 102-106.

We are so excited about the Olympic Winter Games being right around the corner. The amount of dedication, talent and commitment it takes to become an Olympian is remarkable, and in this month’s issue we interviewed such a remarkable man. Read how the relentless pursuit of athletic glory put Olympian Hollis Conway on the path to a lifetime of service on pages 32-39.

There are so many great articles in this month’s magazine. We hope you enjoy reading through the only locally-owned, home-delivered monthly publication in North Louisiana. Thank you for your continued support of local businesses.

Cassie

Correction to last month’s issue: The beautifully written article that accompanied the Anderson~Herlevic wedding was by Mary Napoli.

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

Hope Anderson Dan Chason Kenny Covington Mary Kathryn Crigler Lou Davenport Michael DeVault Cindy Gist Foust Lori French Wendi Garnett Andi Holyfield April Honaker Paul Lipe Erin Sharplin Love

Justin Mahiles Meredith McKinnie Dr. Timothy Mickel Guy Miller Kay Stothart Rector Vanelis Rivera Cathi French Roberts Delia Simpson Kelly Smith P. Allen Smith Beatrice A. Tatem Analeise Thomas Judy Wagoner

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Kelly Moore Clark Scarlett Garcia Martin G. Meyers ON THE COVER Olympian Hollis Conway’s fame is rooted in his service to our community.

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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Deer and Beer

Yuengling and Simmons Team up for Big Buck Contest

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

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HERE ARE FEW MORE TIME honored traditions in Louisiana than deer hunting. Passed down through generations, it is a huge part of the fall and winter for most families in our area. This year, Yuengling has teamed up with Simmons Sporting Goods to present the annual Big Buck Contest. Thousands of entrants will be vying for such prizes as a $10,000 shopping spree, an ATV from Moeller’s Yamaha and many more, including Yuengling Prize Packs. For more information and a chance to win weekly prizes, go to facebook.com/ choicebrands.

Family and tradition are practically synonymous with Yuengling. America’s oldest brewery, Yuengling was founded in 1829 and is still owned and run by the Yuengling family today. Current Owner and President, Richard L. Yuengling is the fifth member of the Yuengling family to lead the brewery.

Dick’s belief in hard work and innovation has led to remarkable growth. Since taking over more than 30 years ago, Dick has helped the brewery grow twenty times in size. In 2014, America’s oldest brewery celebrated its 185th anniversary by producing a milestone of more than 2.7 million barrels. To this day, Dick still calls Pottsville home with his four daughters, all of whom currently work fulltime at the brewery, learning the ins and outs of the brewing industry to ensure Yuengling remains a family business for generations to come.

Yuengling’s flagship brews are Traditional Lager and Light Lager. Traditional Lager is famous for its rich amber color and 8 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

medium bodied flavor with roasted caramel malt for a subtle sweetness. Light Lager is an exceptional brew that appeals to those who don’t want to sacrifice character for a low calorie light beer. Very similar to the Traditional Lager, Light Lager comes in at only 99 calories per 12oz serving. Yuengling Traditional Lager is the perfect beer to enjoy after a hunt. It also pairs well with Venison and is the ideal beer to cook with. Check out the recipe below for a delicious and warming winter meal.

BEER BRAISED VENISON ROAST

Braising is the perfect technique for cooking venison roast, and this Beer Braised Venison Roast recipe brings a German flair and intense flavor that are destined to be a family favorite.

Ingredients: 3 Tbsp unsalted butter 4 lb venison roast (or beef shoulder roast) 1 Tbsp salt 1 tsp ground black pepper 2 onions, cut in half and quartered 6 large potatoes, cut into 1” cubes 10 carrots, cut into 1” chunks 1/4 c unbleached all-purpose flour (plus an additional 1/4 c if necessary, added at the end) 2 (12 oz) bottles Yuengling Traditional Lager 2 c vegetable or beef stock 1 Tbsp tomato paste 2 Tbsp brown sugar 1 Tbsp mustard powder 1 tsp thyme

Instructions:

Season roast with salt and pepper. In a 2 gallon or larger Dutch oven or soup pot melt 1 Tbsp butter. Add the roast and sear on all sides over medium-high heat, 1-2 minutes per side. Remove the roast from pot. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 Tbsp butter. Melt butter and add onions.

Saute until golden brown, 3-5 minutes. Add potatoes and carrots, saute 1-2 minutes.

Add flour and stir until moistened. Stir in Yuengling Lager, stock, tomato paste, brown sugar, mustard powder, and thyme. Mix well.

Add the roast back to pot, nestling it among the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer and cover the pot. Simmer for 3 hours. Thirty minutes before serving, remove the lid from the pot. If the stew looks too brothy, place ¼ c of flour in a small bowl. Ladle ½ – ¾ c of broth from the pot into the flour and whisk until no lumps remain. Pour mixture into the stew and stir to incorporate. Continue to simmer, uncovered, until sauce thickens slightly.

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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Audibel the Hearing Center Make Better Hearing Your Resolution This New Year

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ITH EVERY NEW YEAR’S celebration, we make a firm pact with ourselves for the coming year to be better in our diet and health. With our many resolutions, how often have you considered recapturing the sounds that you may be missing due to hearing loss? Whether it is the birds chirping outside of your window or family conversation in a restaurant, there may be no resolution more impactful than getting your hearing tested in 2018!

Over 40 percent of Americans make New Year resolutions each year and the number is steadily growing. A resolution can be anything from wanting to travel more, losing weight, spending more time with family or even learning to paint. If you didn’t make a resolution this year, maybe there is something that you want to accomplish in the New Year.

Your resolution could be a dream you had when you were a little boy or girl or something that you recently learned about when scrolling through your Facebook feed. It doesn’t matter the inspiration, it’s now time for perspiration.

The experts at Forbes recommend the following tips to see your resolution or goal until the end.

goals. You also want to be very specific with your goals.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Although some of us would love to visit the moon or visit every country next year, those goals sound glamorous but are going to be very difficult to achieve. The experts say keep your goals attainable.

One of the most overlooked elements of New Year’s resolutions is hearing. It’s doesn’t matter your resolution or goal, we offer hearing evaluations to ensure that your hearing won’t get in the way. Whether for yourself or a love one, we can identify any sounds that are being missed due to hearing loss and provide reasonable solutions for treatment. Don’t be like the millions of other Americans who put off getting the simple treatment they deserve

MAKE IT TANGIBLE

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MAKE IT OBVIOUS

You will need a way to track and monitor your goals. You can write them on a to-do list, put them on your calendar or put a post-it note on your fridge.

KEEP MOTIVATED

One of the best ways is to tell your family and friends about your goal. You can post it on your Facebook wall, tell your best friend or tell your neighbor. It’s doesn’t matter who you tell just tell somebody. They can help keep you motivated.

At Audibel the Hearing Center, we recommend adding one more to the list.

GET YOUR HEARING CHECKED

Hearing is directly involved in our ability to learn and interact with others. If you want to learn to paint, it is going to be easier if you can hear the instructions from the teacher. If you want spend more time with your family, you are going to enjoy it more, if you can hear your grandkids giggle and laugh.

for their hearing loss. There is a big world of sounds out there, and we want to make sure you are a part of it everyday! Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Our mission is to bring understanding among people through hearing care by focusing on awareness, education, protection and treatment, So the World May Hear!

At Audibel The Hearing Center, we care about your well-being and the lives of the less fortunate around the world. As a proud supporter of The Starkey Hearing Foundation’s “So The World May Hear” program, we are changing lives through the gift of hearing. Your support through the purchase of Audibel Instruments and your donation and trade in of any model hearing aids goes to the foundation’s programs to provide hearing instruments to children in the most remote and poverty stricken regions of the world.

ABOUT US

Audibel The Hearing Center is Northeast Louisiana’s Audibel dispenser. Cherry Phillips “The Hearing Lady” has been serving this area for over 28 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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YOUR BEST YEAR YET

by Erin Sharplin Love erinlove@panachebyerin.com

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es! You read the title of this article correctly – 2018 CAN be your best year yet! And the best part is that no resolutions are required! Instead, I will ask that you make a lifestyle change and become intentional about living your best life. Don’t get me wrong; you will still probably want to set goals and milestones throughout 2018, but they shouldn’t be in the form of the oft-dreaded (and often neglected) “New Year Resolutions.”

So, with that said, let’s take a minute to visualize what YOUR best year would look like. For instance, is work more demanding than ever or less so? Are you committed to frequent date nights with your significant other or to spending more one-on-one time with your children?

Maybe you visualize yourself lounging on a beach and relaxing more frequently. Whatever you imagine, I can promise you it will be different from almost everyone else’s version of their best year. So…in short, you don’t have to worry about being wrong or right; you just have to worry about creating a clear vision for the upcoming year. So let’s get started!!

Choose a word of the year. I mentioned this concept a few articles back (“How to FOCUS and Stop Wasting Time”), and it is integral to living your best year, too! If you missed the “focus” article, let me explain briefly – A word of the year can be any word that resonates with you and makes you want to accomplish its full meaning. For instance, my word of the year for 2017 was focus. At the time I chose the word, I felt that I lacked complete focus in a lot of life areas, such as with my children, marriage and business. I found myself not able to concentrate (focus) on what was happening in the moment, and instead, I allowed too many things to take my attention away from what matters. Choosing the word of the year allowed me to concentrate on changing that and reminded me to FOCUS. This can happen for you, too. Choose a word that resonates with you and post it everywhere you can – office, car, wallet, etc.

READ! Personal growth is a huge part of living your best life, because if you aren’t growing and becoming a better version of yourself, you will definitely not be living your best life. One of the quickest and easiest ways to ensure growth is to read! And, I’m not referring to true crime novels or “Fifty Shades of Grey” type books, either. Instead, read thought-provoking and life-changing books that are often found in the “self-help” section of any bookstore. If you are unsure where to start, take your word of the year and enter it into the search bar on Amazon.

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Choose the book that stands out the most. Don’t stop with one book, though. I suggest reading at least one book a month to keep your momentum going! You can even “read” more than one book at a time by purchasing audio books and listening to them while traveling.

Improve your surroundings. The things you surround yourself with can have a positive or negative affect on your well-being. For instance, have you noticed that being surrounded by clutter zaps your energy and leaves you feeling depressed? Or maybe you’ve noticed that anytime you snuggle with your pet you have a feeling of happiness and calm. Take the time to notice what zaps your energy and what gives you energy, and then get rid of the people, places or things that are bringing you down.

Become a healthier version of yourself. I know this suggestion sounds like a resolution, but it’s not! It should become a lifestyle, instead. Figure out what you need to do to become a healthier version of yourself and commit to making it happen! Are you staying active enough? Can you cook more and stop purchasing fast food as often?

Or maybe you feel the nudge to stop consuming meat products? I felt that nudge over twelve years ago, and I haven’t looked back (except maybe for the pepperoni cravings I used to get until I found Yves’ brand of veggie-based pepperoni)! Seriously though, becoming healthier isn’t relegated just to what you eat or to how much you work out. Health can also come from your posture, breath and brain. Master those and you will instantly feel better.

Become intentional with your everyday life. THIS is the most important part of living your best year…become intentional with your days, weeks and months. Sit down daily or weekly to set your intentions for each day. For instance, what needs to be done today or this week? Set times for self-care, date nights, girls’ night, etc. Not being intentional with your time is the reason you never have enough of it!! I, personally, do this in two different ways – 1. I keep my daily tasks in the calendar on my phone and 2. I keep a bullet journal/planner for details. It will probably take a bit of trial and error to figure out what works best for your lifestyle, so get started now!

Are you excited about 2018 yet? I am! Now, let’s get started and do this together! Follow me on Facebook (Erin Sharplin Love) and subscribe to my blog at www.panachebyerin.com for more tips and to see my word of the year for 2018!

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A Decade of Style and Service Holly Brooke Epperson Celebrates 10 Years with Rain Salon

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OLLY BROOKE IS PASSIONATE ABOUT EVERYTHING she does – and her career is no different. After attending a local beauty school just over a decade ago, she went straight to work to fulfill her goal of becoming a successful stylist. An employee at Rain the Salon and Day Spa approached her about becoming an apprentice, and she accepted. At the time, Rain was located on Louisville Avenue in Monroe and Holly Brooke’s mentor was Carla Hester. Now, Rain has moved to their über cool location in downtown Monroe, Carla has moved to Lafayette, LA, and Holly Brooke has found her home at the local salon.

Growing up, Holly Brooke was made fun of for her short hair and turned that into a passion for making other people feel beautiful.

“I always want people to feel good about themselves,” says Holly Brooke. “I want them to feel confident and strong, no matter their look or style.” She describes her style as conservative and classic with a funky pop every now and then. But whether someone is looking for a preppy, edgy or traditional look, Holly Brooke’s goal is to give her clients a cut or color to make them feel confident and happy. Her favorite thing about being a stylist is working with and helping with men’s grooming. “It allows me to be creative, and often times, men don’t know what is good for them as far as hairline and what goes with their face shape so I try to educate them and make them look and feel their best,” said Holly Brooke. And it doesn’t always have to do with just hair. In fact, she shares a good guy’s grooming tip – always take care of your skin! “Sometimes guys forget about their skin and it shows!,” she said. “The Oribe Hair and Body Oil is perfect for a guy’s beard and face. You always want to moisturize and wear sunblock to take care of your skin.”

Holly Brooke always stays up to date on the latest techniques and styles by participating in continuing education and watching for the upcoming trends. “I usually keep an eye with guys’ hair in sports, that tells me what will be trendy,” she said. “I also pay attention to what is going on in places like L.A., Europe and other hot spots, always looking for people that aren’t afraid to step out and do something different.” Right now, she says the classic, clean look is in style. “It is like a groomed, burly look,” she laughs. “Men are cleaning up their beards and keeping them shaped and groomed, and pairing that with a longer hair cut.”

While Holly Brooke somewhat specializes in men’s cuts, that

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isn’t all she does. She offers women’s cut and colors and is always recommending techniques and products to her female guests. “Right now, I am obsessed with the Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray,” she said. “So many of my clients are always on the go, and this is the perfect product. It is a really light mist that smoothes your hair, while speeding up the drying time. It repairs split ends, nourishes, softens and strengthens the hair, while giving it healthy body and shine.”

Since joining the Rain family, she feels as if she has grown up in the salon, and everyone has become just that – family. “I truly love the owners – Holly and James,” she says. “They inspire me and always have our best interests in mind. They want to see us excel and do everything in their power to make that happen. They have created a structure to have a successful career, and I will always be grateful for that.” Another thing Holly Brooke is grateful for is the environment Rain has created for guests. “The atmosphere is sophisticated with quality products and 5 star service,” she says.

“Not every salon offers that, and we are so fortunate to have that level of service and be able to offer an experience to our guests.”

When Holly Brooke isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She loves going to concerts with friends, experiencing new social opportunities and staying connected to the community. She is constantly looking for inspiration, motivation and striving for personal growth.

After ten years of success at Rain, Holly Brooke is looking forward to the future and to be able to continue to connect with her clients. “My favorite thing is being involved in people’s lives,” she says. “Whether they are getting ready to go on a job interview, getting married, graduating college, they sit in my chair and share that with me. I get to share and celebrate in their major milestones, and that is so special to me.”

Rain the Salon opened in the summer of 2004, added the Day Spa in 2007 and relocated to their current downtown location five years ago. They offer styling, cut, color, services, as well as massage, body treatments, eyelash extensions, nail and makeup services.

Offering Oribe, Paul Mitchell and Dermalogica products, Rain is a locally owned full service salon dedicated to the community and the guests they serve.

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Happy New Year, Happy New You Revive Your Spirit in the New Year

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

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EW YEARS IS OFTEN ASSOCIATED WITH A FRESH start, great expectations, hopefulness, rebirth and anticipation. The new year is ushered in annually with fireworks, celebrations, and the lowering of the ball in Times Square.

It is a time when many stop to take time to reflect on the past year, while looking favorably to the newness of the coming year. It can be a refreshing time when some relish personal accomplishments and achievements with hopes of enhancing, building and improving various aspects of their lives. It is also a time to appreciate what you were able to survive, endure and overcome. Others regard the new year as a second chance to redo failures, undo mistakes and as an opportunity to get things right. For some it means a new attitude, a new lease on life, something to look forward to happening, an awakening. The new year is often used as a marker or gauge when setting resolutions, attempting goals, determining vision and clarifying perspectives. The new year is filled with endless possibilities and yet the unknown as to what may come.

Through out the year and particularly as the year comes to a close I often hear the comment “I will be glad when this year is over, I can‘t wait for the new year.“ This comment is frequently made by clients who want to experience change in their lives and those who assume the new year will be better. It is common for clients to seek counseling to initiate change by identifying goals and setting resolutions. Sometimes the motivation for change is prompted by the anticipation of the new year, or in reaction to a challenge or the need for a fresh start. Striving for self-improvement and setting goals tends to give one a sense of hope for the future.

Clients are encouraged to seek measurable, realistic, specific goals that are meaningful and purposeful to them, goals they can and want to embrace. In essence, people are reminded to live life fully and healthily beyond the first month of the year; beyond the failed resolutions they set.

As you prepare yourself for the new year think about a happy new you. Revive your spirit and prepare yourself to radiate. Take measures to be happy, healthy, well and beautiful. Beauty is inner goodness that exudes outwardly both physically and mentally affecting ones attitude and self-esteem. Relive a happy, funny 16 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

moment in your life. Look at your strengths and not just failures.

Recognize the power of you. Create a vision and mood board, and if you are one to set resolutions keep them. You are what you do, not what you say you will do. Remember to enjoy you. Gift yourself in the new year. Take care of your physical health by sleeping regularly, eating well and exercising routinely. Rested and relaxed individuals tend to act, look and feel better. Keep in mind wherever you go the essence of you goes with you. Embrace the new year saying, “out with the old and in with the new.” Transcend self destructive habits; instead develop a new plan for a more gratifying, balanced and bountiful ways of living. Let the old you meet the new you. Become the healthiest version of you. Detoxify the body, the soul, the mind, the environment you live and work in. Clean up figuratively and literally, get rid of junk, old ideas, negative thoughts and the things that are toxic to your mental and physical health. Acknowledge who you are and then who you want to be and go for the new you.

My wish is for all in 2018 to experience a year filled with new opportunities, new relationships, new love, new life, new meanings and when desired a new beginning. In the coming year may you experience happiness and contentment, peace of mind and physical wellness, mental acuity and alertness, fortitude and a sense of self, positive and healthy relationships, greater emotional balance and centeredness, less stress and more serenity. In the spirit of the new year, the ball in your life is descending, just as it does each year in Times Square….10, 9, 8, 7, 6, ,5, 4, 3, 2, 1. Happy new year, happy new you.

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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Ready-Set-Prune

PLANTS YOU SHOULD AND SHOULDN’T PRUNE IN LATE WINTER

ARTICLE BY P. ALLEN SMITH Pruning Bush

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he first thing that everyone should know about pruning is that much like a bad haircut, a botched pruning job will grow out eventually. It’s unlikely that a person will kill a plant with poor pruning. It may look really bad for a while, but it won’t die.

The chances of getting the job done right are improved if you use good, sharp tools, make a clean cut and consider the growth habit of the plant. And you can’t go wrong by just removing dead wood, crisscrossing branches and by limiting the removal to onethird of the plant’s size.

The most obvious reasons to prune are to reduce the size of a plant, maintain a plant’s shape or improve its appearance. Pruning to remove dead and diseased wood or thin out the center branches will also help keep a plant healthy. For instances, shrub roses or hydrangeas that have grown too dense benefit from the removal of interior branches to open up air circulation; good air circulation helps keep diseases in check.

Pruning in late winter when many shrubs and trees are dormant invigorates the plants for abundant growth in spring; the wounds are exposed for a limited amount of time before the growing cycle begins; and finally, it’s just easier to see what needs to be pruned after the leaves have dropped.

In this part of the country, late winter is February. The garden is still dormant but 18 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

the spring thaw will begin within four to six weeks. The job should be handled before new spring growth begins but after the threat of severe cold has passed.

What NOT to Prune in Late Winter

Not all plants should be cut back in winter. This is a list of plants that prefer to have their haircuts in late spring or summer.

What to Prune in Late Winter

Here is a short list of plants that appreciate a good trim in late winter.

• Spring flowering shrubs – Forsythia, quince, azaleas, bridal wreath spirea and other shrubs that bloom in spring should be pruned immediately after they flower.

• Spring flowering trees – Lilacs, ornamental fruit trees and Eastern redbuds, for example, should be pruned right after the trees have finished flowering.

• Hydrangea macrophylla – Old-fashioned, pompon hydrangeas set bloom buds on the previous year’s growth. It’s safe to remove faded flowers and dead branches.

• O nce-blooming roses – Old-fashioned roses that only flower once each growing season, such as Damasks and moss roses bloom on old wood and should be pruned in the summer after they have flowered.

• G ardenias – These should be pruned immediately after they bloom.

• B leeding trees – Maples, birches, dogwoods, walnuts and elms produce copious amounts of sap when they are pruned in late winter.

Pruning won’t hurt the trees, but it will be less messy if you wait until summer.

• S ummer flowering trees – Ornamental trees that bloom in summer such as crape myrtles, vitex, smoke tree and rose of Sharon • H ydrangea paniculata and H. arborescens – Unlike their cousin H. macrophylla, these two hydrangeas bloom on new wood, so cut them back hard to promote growth and flowers. H. paniculata can be cut back to two buds above the base of the flower stem. Prune H. arborescens back to varying heights of one to three feet from the ground.

• F ruit trees – Fruit trees flower on growth from the previous season, but pruning should be done when the tree is dormant, so there will be some flower and fruit loss.

The good news is that pruning promotes vigorous growth and larger, better tasting fruits. Each type of fruit tree has some special requirements so do some research before you begin cutting.

• R oses – Hybrid tea, old-fashioned and climbing roses should be pruned right before the leaf buds break or if you live in a northern region, pruning should be done when you remove winter protection.

Essential Tools

The best results come from using sharp, clean tools that are suited for the task. Here is a list of pruning essentials.

Vitex, also known as chaste tree, should be pruned in late winter to help it bloom abundantly in the spring.

Pruning Tools

A sharp pocket knife is great for making small cuts as needed.

Hedge shears are designed to cut small twigs or shrubs, but not anything much larger than the size of a pencil. They are a must for broadleaf evergreens such as boxwoods, hollies and yews.

Bypass pruners are suited good for cuts about the size a pencil and can be used for perennials and shrubs with thin stems like roses or azaleas.

Loppers are a tool for making big bites when you need to get some leverage. They are best for using on dead wood because they tend to crush rather than cut. This crushing action can damage living cells in a branch, which could cause a longer healing time for the tree or shrub.

Saws are also ideal for large branches and can be used for cutting living wood. The more teeth on the saw the finer the cut and the easier the healing process will be on the plant.

Pole saws and pole pruners are handy for reaching into large shrubs or for working overhead.

Flowers of the pee gee hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata) bloom on new wood, so pruning helps ensure new growth.

Good to Know: When to Call in a Professional

If you can’t reach a limb from the ground with a pole pruner, it’s time to call a pro. This also applies if the limbs are heavier than you can manage or if the tree is near power lines.

Photo credits: Pruning Bush – Photographer, Jane Colclasure, Pruning Tools – Photographer, Jane Colclasure, Vitex – 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.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2018 19

DR. WALTER SARTOR

BEFORE

AFTER

Meghan Loses 169 Pounds!

Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery Transforms Lives

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EGHAN DURBIN DECIDED TO change her life the moment she realized her health was affecting her two small children.

“When I knew I was incapable of caring for my children in the way they deserved, I realized just how miserable, unhappy, and disgusted I truly was with myself. I knew that my life had to change, or I wasn’t going to be here for them as long as I wanted to be.”

Meghan chose the gastric sleeve surgery at Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery.

She has lost 169 pounds since her surgery in July 2015. Meghan has gained a love for exercise and healthy food.

“This weight loss tool was the best thing I have ever done for my health and for my life,” said Meghan. “My whole thinking process about health, food, exercise, and positivity have completely changed. My life is filled with more happiness now that I can finally feel like myself. I am determined to reach the rest of my goals.”

Meghan enjoys teaching her children the differences between healthy and unhealthy foods.

“I found myself explaining healthy fats, healthy sugars, organic vs. non-organic, and the benefits of protein. When I realized I was teaching them what I have learned—and they were actually interested—that was the moment I knew I made the right choice to have surgery.”

She laughs at her former disdain for exercise because now, it’s one of her biggest passions.

“I told my mother that I would never exercise, even after weight loss surgery. I love 20 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

going to my gym every single day now! The gym is like my second home; exercise makes me feel so good and challenges me to the best of my capabilities. My progress is definitely evident.”

Like many others, Meghan has battled obesity since childhood.

“I’ve struggled with obesity since the age of 13. Being an overweight child caused so many challenges. I was bullied. And, I had very low self-esteem and depression, all of which made my teenage years and adulthood extremely difficult,” she says.

“My emotional struggles caused me to eat even more because food became my comfort.

I knew I could rely on food making me ‘feel better,’ even though I didn’t realize just how badly it was affecting my long-term health.”

Prior to Meghan’s surgery, she was pre-diabetic and suffered from high blood pressure and hypoglycemia.

“I couldn’t even go grocery shopping anymore because of the inevitable fatigue and shortness of breath. You know you have serious health problems when just walking to your mailbox tires you out. I can happily and proudly say that I no longer have any health problems of any kind after my surgery.”

Meghan worried she would no longer be able to enjoy food after the gastric sleeve surgery.

“My biggest misconception was that I thought I would not enjoy food anymore.

I’m a huge ‘foodie,’ and I still have a love for food; it’s just healthier and better foods now.”

Meghan has advice for others considering gastric surgery.

“Everyone has different fears, but I would say to just picture yourself happier and healthier. Once your mind is set on changing your lifestyle for the better, you’re on your way to be the best you.”

Meghan’s bariatric surgeon and the LCWLS staff played an important role in her journey.

“Dr. Walter Sartor is one of the most professional, kind and thorough doctors I’ve ever met, and my husband and I had consulted with several other surgeons before making our final decision. He has the best staff; they have taken care of me since the very first day I walked into their office. They just made us feel very welcome, comfortable, and safe.”

In addition to an athletic physique and a passion for healthy food, Meghan has found professional success since undergoing the surgery. She is the creator and owner of an online boutique business.

“My weight loss has benefited my career in multiple ways. I have more confidence, so I am more visual on social media, where I model my own handmade clothing.

Becoming truer to myself has pushed me to become more successful in my business career. It’s completely changed my whole view and way of thinking—for the better.”

Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery, an accredited bariatric program, is a partnership between Dr. Walter Sartor, P&S Surgical Hospital, and St. Francis Medical Center. Like us at facebook.com/LCWLS, and call us today at 1-866-821-LIVE. Check out our YouTube channel!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2018 21

Trio’s Restaurant

Come on Over and Meet Friends, Where Friends Meet!

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OOKING FOR A CHIC PLACE TO have drinks or watch the Saints game on Sunday over brunch and bottomless mimosas? Look no further than Trio’s on Forsythe Avenue. This local favorite is located at 2219 Forsythe Avenue in Monroe.

They offer a fine dining experience with top-of-the-line cuisine, gourmet specials and top-notch service. Their menu combines Mediterranean cuisine with American favorites. Owner Jenifer Johnson Walker is a local restauranteur who comes from a strong Greek heritage. When she first opened Trio’s, she knew she wanted the food to have a distinct Mediterranean influence.

Trio’s Restaurant has stood the test of time by reinventing and adapting while keeping the tried-and-true staples of their establishment.

In an interview with Jenifer, she gave us a little insight on the history of one of Monroe’s staple restaurants. “My parents and brother had an idea for a little dive restaurant. My father owned the property; it was an old 7-11, if you can believe that! It was named Trio’s after my brother’s 3 children, since he was the only one with kids at the time. This December makes 22 years that we have been open.”

When asked about what inspired the notorious menu for Trio’s, Jenifer stated: “We have an eclectic menu with a Mediterranean flair! My family is Greek, so we love to mix that in with traditional Louisiana style food. We also have a great wine list and cocktail menu. Some of our top sellers are actually derived from our Greek heritage like our lamb gyros, crabmeat

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moussaka and chicken panini. We sell a lot of salads as well, and all are fresh with house made dressings! All of the dishes on the menu were created in house. Our Chef, Darrius McCall, and the rest of the Trio’s family is amazing. Some of the Trio’s family have been there over 15 years.”

Looking for something a little lighter?

Try the house-made hummus, or one of the delectable fish entrees. One of the newest editions to the Trio’s menu: The Jenifer Salad! Jenifer has made this salad for years, and once people got a taste, they would ask her to make it for them regularly. The salad is made with crisp romaine lettuce, green onions, fresh avocados, almonds, mushrooms and croutons. Top it all off with their homemade Asiago cheese dressing for one of the best salads you have ever tasted!

Along with incredible food, Trio’s also has a full service bar with a wide selection of fine wines and hand-crafted cocktails to give you or your group a great selection.

They offer regular happy hour during the week and are a great place to stop and have drinks on the weekend. Brunch is served every Sunday from 10-3 with your choice of a signature Bloody Mary or a round of bottomless mimosas!

Recently, Trio’s has undergone a fabulous makeover. An accent mirror wall, crisp white seating and new artwork updated the space. “The updates reflect my personality. I want people to feel welcome and comfortable when they walk in. Almost like they are walking into our home.” Great food and a cool space to hang out in, that’s a pair you can’t pass up!

2018 is quickly approaching, and when we asked Jenifer what she looked for in the New Year, she was excited to tell us about their idea for a quarterly Greek Night! For three years now, Trio’s has hosted a “Greek Easter” complete with authentic Greek favorites like stuffed grape leaves, grilled lamb chops with potatoes, pastitso (Greek lasagna), spanakopita and Greek lemon potatoes. Baklava is served for dessert, and everything is made by Jenifer and her family! No Greek Easter is complete without Greek drinks and Authentic Greek Music!

Greek Easter has been such a popular event in the past, that the Trio’s family wanted to open up Greek Night a few more times a year!

So whether you are in the mood for a night out, want somewhere to catch the game, need an intimate spot for a date night, or grab a quick meal from the drive through, Trio’s is the place! Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for constantly changing deals and specials!

Come on over and meet friends, where friends meet!

2219 Forsythe Ave in Monroe 318-387-3577 Monday through Saturday, 11-11 Sunday from 10-7

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Alumni Spotlight Dr. Daniel Raymond: ULM Alumnus

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R. DANIEL RAYMOND WAS NOT A TYPICAL COLLEGE student. His personal life was rapidly progressing before he ever stepped foot on ULM’s campus. Having graduated St. Frederick’s High School in May of 2000, marrying his wife Sarah in June, starting college in August, and welcoming his first child Caroline later that year, his plate was more than full. And to top it off, he wanted to pursue a degree in Biology while continuing to play baseball. Dr. Davis Pritchett advised Daniel, warning him of the reality of such a trying degree with everything he had going on. But Daniel was determined, never one to do something halfway.

Daniel’s college days began with 4:30 a.m. baseball workouts, followed by a full schedule of classes, practice and then returning home to spend time with his wife and daughter. He had responsibilities outside the classroom and off the field that needed his attention. He remembers the professors accommodating and supporting his demanding baseball schedule during the spring semesters. He brought his books to away games and studied on the bus, working tirelessly to maintain his status as an A student.

On the field, Daniel not only learned discipline, but to adapt to the curve balls the game threw him. He started out as a bullpen catcher, then designated hitter, then as a first baseman. Daniel calls himself an “average baseball player,” but there’s nothing average about Daniel or his approach to life. He has seen how the sport “parallels life.” Baseball is the only sport where one can “fail 7 out of 10 times and still be considered a success.”

One special memory that stands out for Daniel is his graduation ceremony. Due to his eventful baseball schedule, Daniel missed the ceremony in May. However, ULM hosted a private graduation on the 6th floor of the newly built library. The university’s generous gesture cemented their commitment and support to him and his family. It was an extraordinary celebration for his hard work over those five years as a student athlete. He was surrounded by his wife, daughter, parents, coaches Brad Holland and Jeff Schexnaider, ULM staff such as Lisa Miller and Anne Lockhart, alumni such as Lynn and James Moore, players, as well as other extended family and friends. Their love, support and encouragement carried Daniel to graduate with top honors, as well as boost his confidence as he was accepted to LSU School of Dentistry.

ULM prepared Daniel well for the challenges of pursuing a professional degree. He and his family moved to New Orleans summer of 2005 for dental school, only weeks before Katrina hit. The next

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two years looked even harder than the five before. When the dental school relocated to Baton Rouge, Daniel lived in a FEMA trailer on the weekdays and commuted back on the weekends. He was able to return back to New Orleans to finish the last two years of dental school.

Shortly after graduating from LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans in 2009, Daniel decided to join Dr. Vance Costello, his friend and mentor, in Farmerville and then NELA Dental was born. Today, their practice serves patients all over northeast Louisiana with offices in Farmerville, Oak Grove and Monroe.

The Raymonds’ return to Monroe only seemed natural. They were eager to give back to the community that had been so instrumental in helping them overcome so many obstacles to meet success. Their roots run deep, and Daniel counts Monroe as a “great place to raise a family.” A lifelong member of Covenant Presbyterian Church, Daniel now serves as an elder in the church and current Clerk of Session. The church is “foundational,” and he strives to lead a Christ-centered life.

Daniel serves on the Monroe Youth Baseball Association board and coaches his 10 year old son, William’s team. His involvement with ULM today includes supporting the baseball team, a football season ticket holder, a ULM Alumni Association member, as well as being a member of the L Club. Sarah and Daniel enjoy tailgating in the grove when they can along with their three children, Caroline, William and Lizzie.

While Daniel was transforming his life during his days at ULM, the school was finding its own identity as well. He witnessed the conversion from NLU Indians to the ULM Warhawks. He saw firsthand the college being renovated and it was “nice to see the community investing in education.” A community has to have that “solid foundation in order to grow.” And 17 years later, it is satisfying to see the investment in ULM coming to fruition. Daniel has further strengthened his roots in this community, provided a life his family can be proud of, and is still supported by those there in the beginning.

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.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2018 25

Historical Impressions

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SEMPER FORTIS - ALWAYS COURAGEOUS

EMBERS OF THE MILITARY are no different than civilians in their need for medical and health services. Medical jobs at hospitals and clinics on military bases are identical to those at civilian hospitals and clinics. When members of the military are at sea or in combat, however, things get a bit more complicated. This is especially true for the uniquely combat-oriented mission of the United States Marine Corps.

The Marines have no medical personnel of their own but rely on the Navy to provide specially-trained Hospital Corpsmen to offer medical support during operations and battle. When assigned to a Marine unit, a corpsman’s main job during combat is emergency treatment, such as dressing wounds or administering pain medication.

When not in combat, a corpsman dispenses medication, performs medical tests and diagnoses minor illnesses. Some corpsmen specialize in nursing or radiology or serve as a duty station’s primary medical specialist when no doctor is available.

For a corpsman to be effective in a Marine unit, he has to earn the right to be regarded as a fellow Marine. He has to be someone that the other Marines know and trust. He has to not only look and act like a Marine but also function just as other Marine –even in battle. The Marines have a saying, Every Marine is a Rifleman.

Navy corpsmen serving with the Marines are therefore required to be able to use a rifle to lay down cover fire or do whatever the other Marines in his unit need to do to accomplish the assigned mission.

Under the Geneva Convention knowingly firing at someone wearing clear medical insignia is a war crime. The enemies faced in more recent conflicts, however, are often insurgents who either do not recognize the Geneva Convention, or do not care, and readily engage all personnel, irrespective of non-combatant status.

Becoming a Fleet Marine Force (FMF) Navy Hospital Corpsman is not a short process. Interested corpsmen first

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complete the 19-week school at Joint Base San Antonio, TX to learn basic military skills plus emergency medical techniques, disease and pathologies, and nursing techniques. After that, the corpsmen must attend an 8-week course at either Camp Del Mar (located on Marine Corps base Camp Pendleton, CA) or Camp Johnson (located on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, NC), where corpsmen receive specialized training in advanced emergency medicine and the fundamentals of Marine Corps life.

Emphasis is placed on physical conditioning, weapons handing including disassembly and reassembly, and basic infantry tactics.

As it this was not enough, an FMF corpsman can choose to undergo further training to become Special Amphibious Reconnaissance Corpsman (SARC).

SARC’s serve with Marine Recon and Special Operations units. Their additional training includes very specialized combat training: • Marine Basic Reconnaissance Course (Camp Pendleton, CA and Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, CA- 12 weeks) • Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (Naval Air Station North Island, CA- 3 weeks) • USMC Combatant Diver Course (Panama City, FL- 35 Days) • Army Airborne School (Fort Benning, GA- 3 weeks) • Army Special Operations Combatant Medic Course (Fort Bragg, NC- 36 weeks) • Navy Special Operations Independent Duty Corpsman Course (Fort Bragg, NC- 24 weeks)

FMF corpsmen abide by Navy grooming standards but are issued the Marine Corps camouflage uniforms while assigned to the Marines. FMF corpsmen also have the option to go Marine Corps Regulations. If the latter is chosen, they are issued a new sea bag containing Marine uniforms (except dress blues) with uniform matching Navy rate chevrons instead of the Marine rank chevrons, and collar

rank insignias, and wear those instead of traditional Navy uniforms.

These corpsmen must also abide by grooming standards established for Marines.

The journey is far from over for an FMF corpsmen.

The Fleet Marine Force Enlisted Warfare Specialist Device (FMFEWS) is a qualification insignia of the United States Navy earned by enlisted sailors assigned to the Fleet Marine Force of the United States Marine Corps who have successfully completed the necessary requirements of the Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Warfare Specialist Program.

Attaining this designation is the most coveted warfare insignia among all corpsmen. The FMFEWS is the only U.S. Navy warfare device awarded never by the Navy but solely by a U.S. Marine Corps general officer. To be FMFEWS qualified, the corpsman must serve one year with an active Marine Corps unit, pass the Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test (PFT) and Combat Fitness Test (CFT), take a written test, demonstrate skills such as weapon breakdown and familiarization, land navigation, combat communications and also pass an oral examination given by senior enlisted sailors who are FMFEWS qualified.

As of 2004, all Navy corpsmen assigned to a Marine unit are required to earn the FMFEWS badge within 18 months of being assigned to a Marine unit.

With assignments ranging from Marine Corps combat units to Navy ships to shore installations, Hospital Corpsman is the most decorated rating in the United States Navy and the most decorated segment of the U.S. Military.

Navy Corpsmen have received 22 Medals of Honor, 179 Navy Crosses since World War I, 31 Navy Distinguished Service Medals, 959 Silver Stars and more than 1,600 Bronze Star Medals with Combat “V’s for heroism since World War II.

BY GUY MILLER Vice Chair-Chennault Aviation and Military Museum

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Washington Wine and Spirits Bringing in the New Year

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HE NEW YEAR IS HERE, AND MANY OF US HAVE resolutions to eat healthier, especially after all the rich and delicious holiday food. With that said, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or a good dining experience to eat healthy. We here at Washington Wine and Spirits would love to help you find the perfect wine to make any meal more complete and fulfilling! Wine is often cited for its wonderful health benefits, as it is rich in antioxidants and has been proven to benefit the heart and mind.

First let’s look at steak. A leaner cut, like a filet, is the perfect choice to go a little healthier while still getting your steak fix, and a great bottle of wine will go a long way in creating a delicious dining experience that will leave you satisfied and content. For a value wine that punches like a super heavyweight in terms of flavor then look no further than Decero Cabernet Sauvignon. A lush, smooth, single vineyard cabernet from Argentina, this wine is full of rich fruit and soft, supple tannins that is immaculate with a filet! If cabernet isn’t your wine of choice, then we have the Chappellet Mountain Cuvee.

It is made mostly with prestigious mountain grapes grown in Napa Valley. It is a wine built on classic Bordeaux varietals and provides an abundance of nuance, spice and fruit. The spice notes are excellent when paired with a filet or even sirloin.

If you’re looking for lighter fare, there are still plenty of incredible options out there. For instance: • Vegetable Stew, Pork Tenderloin - Hartford Court Zinfandel • Chicken, Salmon - Hahn GSM, Cloudy Bay Te Wahi Pinot Noir, Neyers Chardonnay • Salads - Saint Veran Chardonnay • Fish - Honig Sauvignon Blanc • Steak - Quilt Cabernet Sauvignon, Hess 19 Block

We are also extremely excited to tell you about our upcoming event with Jeff Gaffner, owner and winemaker of Saxon Brown. Jeff began his career at Chateau St. Jean, under the tutelage of renowned vintner Richard Arrowood, whom Jeff credits with teaching him the importance of being as passionate about growing the grapes as making the wine. While at Chateau St. Jean, Jeff was part of the winemaking team responsible for the winery’s celebrated 1996 Cinq Cepages, which was named Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator Magazine.

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In the years since, Jeff has become one of the most sought after winemakers for artisan labels, having gained critical acclaim and a loyal following for his site-specific focus and restrained winemaking style. The Wall Street Journal has said that they “love his vineyard voice,” while the Wine Spectator has lauded his winemaking as “deft.”

Jeff launched Saxon Brown to focus on small single vineyard bottlings reflecting his preference for elegantly structured, well balanced and age worthy wines. Over time, Jeff expanded Saxon Brown’s vineyard-focus with small offerings from both established and emerging vineyard sites, including Durell, Gap’s Crown, Glass House and Roberts Road (Sonoma Coast), Hyde (Carneros-Napa), Green Acres (Carneros-Sonoma), Ferrington (Anderson Valley) and Rosella’s (Santa Lucia Highlands) vineyards.

In addition to Saxon Brown, Jeff enjoys critical acclaim as consulting winemaker for artisan labels including Xtant (Napa Valley), Stephanie by Hestan (Napa Valley), Black Kite Cellars (Anderson Valley) and Ram’s Gate Winery (Carneros).

On January 18th, 2018, Jeff Gaffner will be here with us at Washington Wine & Spirits from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. to do a meet and greet. We will have have heavy hors d’ouerves to complement the Saxon Brown wines that we will be tasting. As you eat and drink, you will have the opportunity to talk to Jeff about his wines, experiences and knowledge that he has cultivated in his illustrious 30+ year career!

He will also be signing bottles. Tickets for this incredible event are very limited! $25 for a single, $40 for a couple.

6 oz Filet - $9.75 14 oz Bone-In Filet - $39.99 20 oz Ribeye - $21.24 1.5 lb T-Bone - $20.99 2.5 lb Porterhouse - $39.98 2-5 lb Sirloin - $9.99/lb

10 oz Filet - $16.24 1.5 lb Bone In Strip - $20.99 2 lb Bone In Ribeye - $35.98 2 lb T-Bone - $27.98 3 lb Porterhouse - $47.97

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

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BEFORE

AFTER

AcuPulse and FemTouch Laser Treatments for Facial and Vaginal Rejuvenation

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

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F YOU DON’T YET KNOW HOW lasers can make you look and feel younger, you’re missing out. The right lasers are extremely effective at reversing the signs of aging. Read on to hear about getting rid of those “lip lines” that make your lipstick bleed and age your appearance. But first, a bit on the lasers themselves.

Cosmetic laser treatments of the face have come a long way in the last 25 years. Old lasers treated the skin with a solid beam, so after treatment you looked red and burned. New lasers split the beam into hundreds of small beams that leave tiny islands of normal skin untreated - providing safer, gentler and more comfortable treatment. One of the newest is the AcuPulse fractionated CO2 laser.

The AcuPulse can treat several signs of aging skin: skin discoloration, sun damage, mild skin laxity and fine lines and wrinkles.

In my experience, one of the best uses of this laser is to treat radial lines around the mouth.

These “lip lines” come from activity in the underlying muscles – things like whistling, pursing your lips and using a straw. Muscle tension eventually leads to the radial lip lines around the mouth that most women over 50 begin to notice.

Unfortunately, there is no perfect treatment for wrinkles around the mouth.

Because these wrinkles result from underlying muscle activity, the ideal treatment would include removing the muscle to prevent the wrinkles from coming back. Obviously, this is not an option. We would have difficulty speaking. So the best we can do is reduce the muscle movement and minimize - but not completely erase - these wrinkles. I’ve found 30 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

combining three treatments works best.

First, I use the AcuPulse fractionated CO2 laser to smooth the surface of the wrinkle and thicken the collagen layer beneath it. Four to six weeks later, I use low dose Botox across the upper lip to weaken the muscle, reducing the effect of underlying muscle activity in a subtle, almost imperceptible way. Finally, I inject a thin material into the skin over the top of the wrinkle to help fill it in. I find my surgical training invaluable when making precise injections into this thin and delicate area. All three steps are outpatient procedures handled in the comfort of my office. The latter two steps, Botox and filler, can be done during the same visit.

Women should know that the fractionated CO2 laser also has a range of gynecologic uses, including mild stress urinary incontinence, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse and vaginal laxity after childbirth. The FemTouch attachment allows rapid, safe, comfortable, non-surgical treatment for these perimenopausal symptoms and has revolutionized laser vaginal rejuvenation. Since vaginal treatments are outside my area of expertise, the board certified Gynecologists at The Woman’s Clinic use the FemTouch to perform treatments in the comfort and privacy of my office.

So whether you have peri-oral wrinkles or peri-menopausal vaginal symptoms, call Mickel Plastic Surgery at (318) 388-2050 and set up a consultation to see if AcuPulse or FemTouch is right for you. From surgery to lasers and everything in-between, when it comes to looking and feeling your best, if it works, we have it!

MORE ON MICKEL

Dr. Mickel is a board certified plastic surgeon. A third generation Monroyan, he was born at St. Francis Hospital, raised in the Garden District and graduated from Neville High School. Dr Mickel attended Vanderbilt University, where he graduated cum laude with a B.A. in Psychology. He received his medical degree from LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and was a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society.

Dr Mickel completed a full five-year general surgery residency program at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, and earned board certification in general surgery in 1988. He went on to complete his plastic surgery training at Parkland/UT Southwestern Medical Center in 1990 and is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. As a plastic surgery resident, Dr. Mickel’s research on frontal sinus fractures won national acclaim, including the prestigious Snyder Award, given to the plastic surgery resident who presents the best paper at the annual meeting of the Plastic Surgery Research Council.

Dr. Mickel returned to his hometown in 1990 to begin a practice in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Over the decades, he has focused on cosmetic surgery, breast cancer reconstruction and repairs of cleft lips and palates. Dr Mickel is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the Southeastern Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the American Cleft Palate Association and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

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HOW THE DOGGED PURSUIT OF ATHLETIC GLORY PUT OLYMPIAN HOLLIS CONWAY ON THE PATH TO A LIFETIME OF SERVICE

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ife for a young African-American boy growing up in the poverty of Detroit in the 1970s was hard enough. When his father and mother moved the family to Shreveport in 1976, Hollis Conway had what he describes as an epiphany: He wanted more from life than he currently had.

Like many other young, impoverished kids, one of the few opportunities for Conway to escape, to find that “something more” he sought was on the field of play. He decided at a young age he would become an athlete—not just any athlete, but the best in the world. For those who’ve never competed, the declaration seems filled with hubris. Yet, for those who’ve played competitive sports, it’s the kind of commitment athletes make to becoming the best version of themselves, a commitment to an everevolving set of standards, practices and goals. And, like so many other athletes in his class, Conway began on the gridiron.

“I went out for football, was going to be a linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers – the greatest football team in the world,” Conway recalls. At just a hair’s breadth over 5’ 9” at the time, he had a problem.

“I was too small and got cut from the team.”

Undeterred by his setback in the pursuit of greatness, Conway went out for basketball. Again, his size proved an issue, and he was cut from the team. By the time he started his freshman year at Bell Park High School, Conway’s options were growing thinner. He still wanted that way out of the poverty and limited opportunities that had marked his youth so far, but there were only so many sports. So, he decided to go after a sport in which he felt he was sure to find something he could excel at. He tried out for the Bell Park track and field team and landed a spot as a high jumper. By his sophomore year, it was clear to anyone who watched that Hollis Conway was on the path he had been seeking. He was one of the best high jumpers in Louisiana.

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GOING FOR GOLD Article by MICHAEL DEVAULT Photography by MARTIN G MEYERS

Conway secured a state championship his junior year – and with it, the attention of Dick Booth, the legendary track and field coach from the University of Arkansas, who had recently made the move to Southwestern Louisiana University in Lafayette. Conway continued to push himself to new limits with every practice, each competition.

By the time he graduated, he was recognized as the best high school high jumper in the United States. “I wanted something different in my life,” Conway says. “Sports was a way out.”

He attended SLU, now the University of Louisiana – Lafayette, and competed on Booth’s team through four years of college. If high school had prepared him to embark on the journey of a lifetime, college was his road of trials. For at SLU, he found himself on the team with Neal Guidry, one of the other “best high jumpers in the country.”

“We had two of the best high jumpers in the nation – both of us jumped over 7’ 6” our freshman year,” Conway says. “Then, he broke his ankle. That set him back for a year, and I was able to move forward.”

Like so many other elite athletes, moving forward is a nearly constant theme in Conway’s narrative. Jumping 7’ 6” his freshman year was an achievement that put him into contention for virtually any collegiate competition he entered. But that wasn’t enough. By the end of his sophomore year, he routinely cleared 7’ 8” – a mark that placed him on the verge of world class.

Conway demurs slightly at talk of greatness.

“I had a lot of success, NCAA-wise,” he concedes.

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or most competitors in Conway’s situation, those who viewed sports as a way out and a way forward, competition was a means to an end. For many, that end was a degree. For a few, professional athletics was on the horizon. Conway’s career took a left turn in 1988. At 21 years old, Conway boarded a plane from Lafayette. His destination: Seoul, South Korea.

“Out of nowhere, I made the Olympic team,” he says. “I didn’t know what I was doing.”

Conway went to Seoul and did what he always did. He tried to jump as high as he could. And he did – clearing almost 7’ 8.5” .

Unfortunately for Conway and the American squad, the USSR’s Hennadiy Avdyeyenko had plans of his own, and Avdyeynko hit the 7’ 9.6” mark, securing an Olympic gold medal and setting a record. For many athletes, a silver medal in the Olympics would be an achievement in and of itself, but for athletes

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like Conway, second isn’t first, and that meant there was work to be done. Conway returned to the United States after the 1988 Seoul Games with a renewed drive to improve.

He returned to the games in 1992, this time in Barcelona. By this point, Conway was the best high jumper in the world and was largely favorited to win the games. He knew his competition, and he knew what he was capable of.

“When you’re competing at this level, you’re going to all of the different competitions and seeing the same guys,” Conway says. “You know what to expect, and you know where you stand.”

What no one factored into the equation in 1992 was a relative newcomer to the Olympic high jump – a jumper from Cuba named Javier Sotomayor. Sotomayor was far from an unknown entity in the world of

“

I’m not all about winning gold medals, but I am about being the best that I can be.

“

track and field. He’d been competing for the Cuban national team since 1988 – and had set a high jump world record just days before the opening of the Seoul games. But Cuba’s longstanding boycott of the Olympiad meant he had never competed in the games. That changed in 1992.

At the same time, the men’s high jump competition proved one of the most unlikely matchups in history. Over the course of the finals, each of the top five competitors posted the same mark – roughly 7’ 7.5” – ending in a 5-way tie. Sotomayor secured the top spot, Swede Patrik Sjoberg secured the silver on his second attempt, and Conway found himself in a three-way tie for third, hitting the 2.34 meter mark on his third try, alongside Poland’s Artur Partyka and Australian Tim Forsyth.

“My immediate thought was, ‘Let’s get ready for Atlanta,’” Conway says. “I could

earn a gold, a silver, and a bronze in the high jump. That’s something that’s never been done by an American.”

With three years to prepare for another Olympic run, he knew what he would be doing. He’d be studying biomechanics, watching videos and trying to best himself – and in the process, Sotomayor, Sjoberg and whomever else showed up in Atlanta.

In 1989, he blew out his knee. After a long road of recovery, he tore his patella tendon.

An Achilles tendon bothered him for most of a year before finally requiring therapy and his removal from the Olympic team. All the while, he continued to practice and compete.

“I was hovering around 7’ 4”, 7’ 5” – good enough to keep me trying but not good enough to get me there,” he says. By the 1996 games, his Olympic dream was dead, and Conway found himself facing an existential crisis. The singular purpose for which he’d

lived his life for fifteen years was gone.

“That’s the tough moment for the majority of athletes who compete at a high level,” he says. “Even athletes on the collegiate level face this problem. They graduate and then have to figure out what’s next. If you can figure that out early enough, you can make a whole lot of money.”

Today, Conway takes the lessons he learned on the field and tries to instill them in a new generation of competitors. He serves as a multi-area director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the national, faithbased organization for intermural athletic competitors. Conway oversees Northeast, North Central and Central Louisiana for the organization – tens of thousands of young athletes. He also continues to coach track and field on a pro-bono basis, working with some of the brightest young high jumpers in the state. Whether he’s dealing with a room full of FCA kids, helping a jumper reach a new goal or speaking to a gym full of high school kids – like many former Olympians, Conway delivers motivational speeches – he’s careful to always include the takeaways from his life.

“If the best you can be is the potential to win a gold medal, then you don’t settle for anything less than that – until you’ve reached the end of your career and look back at it and can see that maybe that was the best you could have done,” he says. “I’m not all about winning gold medals, but I am about being the best that I can be.”

In addition to spending his time inspiring the next generation of young athletes, Conway is raising three daughters with his college sweetheart, Charlotte. The couple have been married for 25 years.

“I’m a husband, a father, a minister, an athlete, a coach – basically whatever someone tells me to do, I just do it,” he says with a laugh. Though, he does admit, that’s what ministry is about – answering the needs as they arise.

Speaking of just doing it, twenty years has provided Conway with a certain perspective and an appreciation for the two Olympic medals he secured – even that bronze he earned in a three-way tie. Part of that appreciation is Sotomayor himself.

Just a year after taking the gold medal in Barcelona, Sotomayor set the world High Jump record in 1993 – clocking in a jump of 8’ 0.75”. He remains the only man in human history to clear an 8’ jump.

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Top Ten for 2018 Fiesta Nutrition Center

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IESTA NUTRITION CENTER, THIS AREA’S MOST extensive health “supermarket,” is geared up for 2018 with the latest new supplements and natural foods. The team at Fiesta has the experience to suggest the right product geared to everyone’s specific needs. The staff came up with this group of hot products that people are asking for and finding at Fiesta.

of a new look for the label and several new innovative products.

1. SMART BUNS Truly the best low-carb, soft bun we’ve found. 72 calories, 10 g protein, zero net carbs, gluten free.

7. ADRENAL T If you feel like you are on a merry-go-round of stress, rest, repeat, then this formulation from LifeSeasons may be just what is needed! Adrenal T capsules encourage the body’s processes to deal with stress naturally, rejuvenate naturally, therefore providing enhanced energy and mood. An additional benefit would be that by supporting adrenal gland function the thyroid can be regulated naturally for improved metabolism.

2. HOLY KOMBUCHA The latest favorite of this awesomely popular drink. Kombucha is a fermented probiotic beverage that has many benefits, such as improved digestion, fighting candida, and promoting mental clarity and subtle energy. The flavors are numerous, featuring elderflowers, lavender, ginger and citrus blends.

3. DR. AXE COLLAGEN PROTEIN FORMULA The demand for collagen supplementation is huge, and this product covers all the bases. . It is formulated with 5 types of food-sourced collagen designed to promote healthy skin and hair and provide support for joint, muscles and digestive system.

6. PALEO BAKING FLOUR This all-purpose baking flour can be used to make Paleo-friendly (low carb) cakes, cookies, muffins and pancakes. It is created from a blend of mixture of nut flours and root starches, making it grain, gluten and dairy-free.

8. SAF SLIM Belly fat transformation! This is a patented formulation of high-linoleic safflower oil that helps reduce body fat. Great flavor, no stimulants, dosage is only 2 Tbsp. per day.

4. COLON CARE PROBITICS Garden of Life’s 50 billion colon formula probiotic is Fiesta Nutrition’s top repeat-seller in the probiotic category. This high count, multi-strain formula promotes regular, comfortable bowel movements with only one dose per day. This would be recommended for those who are looking for an alternative to habitforming laxatives.

9. MEGA FOOD WOMEN’S ONCE DAILY “Fresh from farm to tablet” has been Mega Food brand’s mantra since 1973. Their quality ingredients and processing methods fit Fiesta’s standards guidelines.

They manufacture age and gender specific supplements along with countless blends for blood-building, immune system enhancement, stress solutions and much more. Each tablet or capsule is bound with probiotics, and the ingredients sources are actually food based.

Absorption of nutrients is key, and Mega Food has taken the concept to new heights.

5. FIESTA BRAND LIVER DETOX The top- seller in the detox category is this user-friendly combination of herbs that have been known to facilitate the liver’s ability to filter toxins and improve digestion. Liver congestion from a not-so-great diet can cause slow digestion and cause pain, indigestion and high cholesterol readings. Toxins in the liver can lead to high blood sugar issues and even high blood pressure. Attention to diet along with Liver Detox may alleviate an unexplained lack of energy as well. Fiesta‘s Private Label Brand of supplements, herbals and oils has expanded to more than 100 products. Customer feedback on the effectiveness of the product line is very positive, especially from former users of mass market brands. This month marks the launching

10. FRESH JUICES FROM THE GOOD EARTH JUICE AND SALAD BAR Shown here is a true crowd favorite , the “Kale Yeah” pressed daily from organic kale, ginger, green apples and lemon. Incorporating fresh juices into a program of better eating and cleansing is made easy this way…get some of your daily required fresh fruits and vegetables easily taken in juice. Choose from other combinations that include beets, turmeric and carrots. Also on the menu at the Good Earth (located inside Fiesta) is a self-serve organic ingredient salad bar, smoothies made with” clean” ingredients, acai bowls and daily hot lunch specials.

Menu and more info can be found at Fiesta’s website.

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article by Kenny Covington usually always tell when I have had a good day or not based simply by how many rods are on the deck of my boat by the end of the day.

The more rods that are laying about, the less successful I usually am.

By keeping things simple, my success rate is usually much higher.

The past few years I have also worked more diligently to focus on the things I am good at. I know what my fishing strengths are so why try to do things I am not comfortable with? I choose basic colors, like blue/blue or watermelon/red, and I stick with those. I fish shallow water less than 10 foot deep 95% of the time regardless of the season or what body of water I am fishing. If there isn’t a reason to change, then why do it? That doesn’t mean, however, that I am not open to suggestions.

I can throw a drop shot or a shaky head, but that isn’t where my confidence is. I may use these techniques enough to learn the when, where and how to incorporate them, but I still find myself leaning on the style of fishing I developed over the course of many years on the water. I am open to learning, but it also has to fit into what I am confident in doing.

FUN

FISHING

With Kenny

Make Time for Change and Learn Something New

F

ishing, like most other sports, is always evolving. New techniques, technology and fresh ideas are constantly changing the face of this great sport. To some die-hards, change is the one thing they will fight to the bitter end. As I have grown older I have come to realize that not all change is bad, and as an angler, I am always trying to find ideas I can use to make me a better fisherman.

In this month’s BayouLife, I would like to share with you some simple changes I have incorporated in the past few years and how you might be able to benefit from this same information. If it will put more fish in the boat this year, what can be the harm of giving it a try right?

BETTER HEALTH

One of the things I began doing different this past year was to get into better shape. I began walking each evening at a local track and have since joined a health club. You may be asking yourself, “What does this have to do with fishing?” Well, it’s been proven that no matter the activity you are passionate about, you enjoy it more when you feel better physically as a person.

Being more physically fit has allowed me the stamina to endure long days on the water, it keeps my mind fresh, my recovery time is much shorter and, in general, I simply feel better overall. I had one of my best years ever fishing tournaments, and I firmly believe it was due in part to my better health.

CREATE CONFIDENCE

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Fishing is a fun, relaxing sport. To me, there is no better way to spend the day than to be on a body of water somewhere. I was asked recently if I ever went fishing for fun, and I responded, “I have the most fun preparing to fish an event, which is fun fishing to me.” To the average angler that likes to go every now and again I can see where they would have a hard time understanding my statement.

I still enjoy spending time in my boat making lures, retying lines or just doing basic tackle preparations. I love sitting on the water listening to Mother Nature wake up her world for another day. It’s not just the catching of the fish that I enjoy, but I find every aspect of the sport to be just as fascinating. Regardless of the level angler you find yourself at, fishing should always be fun!

TRY TO GET BETTER

I love to do research. I watch a lot of different fishing shows looking for lures and techniques that may help me catch a few extra fish over the course of a year or two. Overkill? Perhaps, but only if you don’t have the desire to get better. What took me years to learn, today’s anglers, thanks to technology, can wrap their heads around in a matter of days.

Our fisheries are more crowded than ever before. Our anglers are better than they have ever been. Our fish are well educated. All of these things play a significant role when it comes to our own success as individual anglers. Don’t put away your baby Brush Hogs and your Carolina rigs just yet. Being open minded and open to change can be good. Embrace technology, read about and try new techniques, talk to other fishermen and, above all else, never stop learning.

JUST GO FISHING

Pick a lake, call a buddy and hook up your boat and go. Take your kids. Take your father. Just get out on the water and enjoy the outdoors. Don’t worry about how many fish you catch or how many things go wrong. That’s not what fishing is all about.

Look at the shoreline make up. Notice the color of the trees, the rocks, the grass or anything else that catches your eye. Look at the lake houses and camps. Find the jewels that Mother Nature loves to keep hidden from those who choose not to look for them. Enjoy the moments and remember to always take your camera!

Well, it looks like we have run out of room for another month. I hope you all have a healthy and prosperous New Year! Be safe on the water and catch one for me! See you next month!

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National Catholic Schools Week

Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School | St. Frederick High School | Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK 2018

St. Frederick High School, Our Lady of Fatima School and Jesus the Good Shepherd School will celebrate National Catholic Schools Week from Sunday, January 28th through Saturday, February 3rd. Locally and nationally, Catholic school students will have the opportunity to participate in community service projects, spirit days, games, Masses and other activities to commemorate this annual celebration of Catholic schools. Locally, students from all three Catholic schools will participate in a Religion Scholars’ Bowl in Shreveport on Thursday, February 1st along with an All Catholic Schools’ Mass at St. Frederick’s Marsh Memorial Gym on Monday, January 29th at 9:30 a.m. JGS School will host a CSW pep rally and open house on Wednesday, January 31st from 6-7:00 p.m. in the JGS gymnasium and SFHS will host an open house on Thursday, February 1st at 6:00 p.m. in their school cafeteria. These CSW events will highlight the value a Catholic education provides, as well as the importance of strong moral development, self-discipline and respect for self and others. The theme for the 2018 National CSW is “Catholic Schools: Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed.” This year’s theme places emphasis on faith development, academic excellence and dedication to community service, which are all integral components of a Catholic school education. Catholic teaching is rooted in the belief that faith and charity go hand in hand. “And now abideth faith, hope, and charity, these three. But the greatest of these is charity” (1 Cor 13:13). It is our hope collectively that the effort we put into the education of our students now will be evident throughout their lives and will forever lead them in a positive direction.

WHY CHOOSE A CATHOLIC EDUCATION?

High academic standards grounded in strong moral values and high graduation rates are reasons why Catholic schools and their graduates make a significant contribution to our society locally and nationally.

Every Catholic student receives a faith-based, academically excellent education that forms them in mind, body and spirit. Also, Catholic education isn’t reserved solely for Catholic children of Catholic parents and upper income families. Of the nearly 2 million students enrolled in Catholic schools across our nation, approximately 18.4% (345,000) of those students are non-Catholic and 21% are racial minorities. Currently there are 61 publicly-financed programs across the U.S. assisting with financial resources that allow parents to exercise a choice in the school their child attends.

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Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School and Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School, serving grades Pre K3-6th, are primary feeder schools for St. Frederick High School. SFHS accumulated approximately $1.9 million in scholarships for their 2017 graduating class and an ACT composite score class average of 25.5, well above the national average of 20.9. The top 10% of the 2016/17 graduating class scored an average of 30.0 or higher, with the top 75% of the class scoring at 26.0 or higher.

Sixty-six percent of the 2017 graduating class finished the year with an average of 30 college credit hours along with 20 hours of community service/student per year. All three local Catholic schools are active participants in STEM education, using many STEM-based lesson plans in the classrooms and intermittently integrating the two primary schools using STEM projects and activities.

There are a multitude of reasons to choose to send your children to a Catholic school; however, the National Catholic Educational Association has narrowed it down to the following twelve reasons to choose Catholic schools: • We offer an education that combines Catholic Faith and teachings with academic excellence.

• We partner with parents in the faith formation of their children.

• We set high standards for student achievement and help them succeed.

• We provide a balanced academic curriculum that integrates faith, culture and life.

• We use technology effectively to enhance education.

• We instill in students the value of service to others.

• We teach children respect of self and others.

• We emphasize moral development and self-discipline.

• We prepare students to be productive citizens and future leaders.

• We have a 99.3% high school graduation rate on the national level and a 100% graduation rate locally (SFHS).

• We cultivate a faculty and staff who are dedicated, caring and effective.

• We provide a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Jesus the Good Shepherd School and Our Lady of Fatima School serve students in Pre K 3-6th grade, while St. Frederick High School serves students in grades 7-12. Prospective students and their families are encouraged to visit each individual school to witness first-hand how these schools benefit the Northeast Louisiana area.

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on the blend

These three smoothie recipes will help start your year off with a blast. Packed with serious veggie and fruit power, these smoothies are the perfect blend for breakfast.

The Green Goose

Mix 2 cups of spinach, 3 cups of frozen pineapple, a teaspoon of almond butter and 2 cups of almond milk and blend. *Skip the almond butter if you want to keep this smoothie low-fat. Use frozen fruit to keep smoothies cool.

Banana Manana

This delicious smoothie packs power with the addition of tumeric. Combine 1 teaspoon of tumeric, 1 banana, 1 cup of frozen mango and 3/4 cup of almond milk. *May substitute almond milk with coconut milk.

Got Beets

Mix 1 medium beet (can get them pre-peeled and packaged), 2 cups of strawberries, 1/4 cup of coconut oil, 3 Medjool dates, pitted and 1/2 cup of almond milk. Make sure to blend well for a smooth sip.

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Custom Cataract Surgery At Haik Humble Eye Center

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HE LATEST INNOVATION IN cataract surgery is now available at Haik Humble Eye Center. For more than three decades, the practice has offered leading edge cataract care for area patients. The practice has once again upgraded its cataract surgery technology to give patients the opportunity to achieve better vision than with standard cataract surgery.

Customized cataract surgery with the combination of the ORA System™ and Verion Image Guided System™ is now available exclusively at Haik Humble Eye Center.

ORA (Optiwave Refractive Analysis) is a big advancement in cataract surgery – it is a device used in surgery that acts like a GPS for the surgeon. It is a revolutionary new way to analyze your eye during cataract surgery.

Verion provides advanced eye imaging, mapping and incision guidance technology that allows surgeons to better plan and perform some of the most challenging steps of cataract surgery with automation and a high degree of precision.

Cataracts – clouding of the eye’s natural lens – cause vision to become increasingly blurry or hazy, colors look faded and night vision becomes difficult. Cataracts must be removed surgically, which involves removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial one.

Because each person’s eye is different, ORA-guided cataract surgery allows the doctor to tailor the treatment to each individual patient’s eyes by carefully measuring and mapping the eye prior to surgery.

With combination of the precision of the ORA, as well as the planned accuracy of the Verion, Dr. Thomas Parker and his fellow ophthalmologists, including Dr. 44 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Baron Williamson and Dr. Drew Thomas, say patients can expect more customized, precise vision results.

“With the vast number of people in our area having cataract surgery each year, we’re extremely proud to introduce these innovative technologies,” said Dr. Parker. “When you combine the benefits of ORA and Verion with our cataract lens implant technology, patients can feel confident they’ll receive the best possible results.”

HOW THE ORA SYSTEM™ WORKS

ORA technology analyzes many possible imperfections of the way light passes through the eye to the retina. ORA incorporates many more parameters than previous methods to measure the eye, and it is much more dynamic.

This data gives surgeons a real-time snapshot of the eye’s unique optical characteristics, including the imperfections caused by the cataract.

After the cataract is removed and the new lens is implanted, ORA can tell if the eye is in focus. If it’s not, the system helps the surgeon focus the eye. Depending on each patient’s specific situation, this may involve refining the new lens power, altering the placement and formation of the incisions, or selecting a different lens.

With ORA, this verification can now take place during surgery. This innovation reduces the possibility that adjustments will need to be made later.

With standard cataract surgery, additional vision issues must be corrected in separate procedures.

HOW THE VERION SYSTEM WORKS

Verion is designed to minimize chances

for errors by creating a seamless link between data generated at the clinic and the operating room. This helps improve the quality and accuracy of cataract surgery. The Verion technology aims to improve this by using patients’ unique eye data as a reference in the planning and execution of the surgery.

BENEFITS OF THE ORA AND VERION SYSTEMS

There are many important benefits to having the ORA and Verion technologies included as part of your custom cataract surgery. These include: • O RA and Verion may help your surgeon achieve better results and provide you an improved quality of vision.

• O RA and Verion gives your surgeon an added level of confirmation for an optimal outcome.

• I f you have astigmatism, ORA and Verion may improve the accuracy of your correction to help reduce the chance you’ll need to wear eyeglasses after your procedure.

Having the ability to measure, refine and verify outcomes during surgery allows the surgeons at Haik Humble Eye Center to take cataract surgery to an entirely new level.

Cataract surgery used to be about preventing blindness, but with today’s sophisticated cataract removal systems, premium intraocular lenses and guidance from the ORA and Verion Systems, your surgeon may return your vision to the way it was years ago.

For more information about custom cataract surgery, please call Haik Humble Eye Center at 318-325-2610.

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Bayou Pages The “Fix-It” Edition

BY MICHAEL DEVAULT

It’s 2018, and another year has come and gone. You probably set a lot of goals for yourself last year and, if you’re like me, chances are you met a few of them and fell short on more.

You probably even failed miserably on two or three of them.

Make this year different by starting off 2018 with your mind in the right condition and with the motivation and support you’ll need to be successful at those goals.

Whether you’re looking to fix your checking account (Why is my balance always RED?) or alleviate some strain in your family life (Teenagers, am I right?!), you don’t have to go it alone. BayouLife has gathered some of the best – and most entertaining – titles to help motivate you to become the best you.

NUTRITION Wheat Belly: Lose the Wheat, Lose the Weight, and Find Your Path Back to Health

By William Davis, M.D.

MOTIVATION Why Not? Survive and Thrive

By Cathy Code One of the first steps to realizing your goals is simple: there is no silver bullet. In fact, chances are your path to success is different than everyone else’s – even others pursuing the same goal.

This is one of the primary messages of Cathy Code’s Why Not? Survive and Thrive. (Greenleaf, 2016) Part memoir, part motivational self-help, Why Not? recounts Code’s often circuitous path from vacuum cleaner sales in high school to CEO of her own corporation, several times over. Code’s book combines wit, a sometimes biting selfreflection and more than a little advice about how to make the right decision at the right time, all wrapped up in an entertaining narrative that’s sure to help even the most restrained individual find their stride.

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It’s no secret: we eat a lot of wheat. In fact, wheat is one of the biggest sources of carbs in American diets. But what if wheat is bad for us? That’s the question Dr. William Davis tried to answer when he began studying the obesity epidemic. What he found out not only will help you shed a few pounds. It just might save your life.

In Wheat Belly (Rodale, 2014) Davis contends that wheat – particularly the overprocessed, enriched bread and that dangerous, whole-grain “healthy” substitute – is the single biggest contributor to America’s obesity epidemic.

He then goes on to outline a strategy to kick the wheat habit and help repair decades worth of metabolic and physical damage this not-so-innocuous little grain has wreaked on unsuspecting metabolisms.

WELLNESS No Sweat: How the Simple Science of Motivation Can Bring You a Lifetime of Fitness

By Michelle Segar, PhD Is it possible that the ideal physical fitness begins not in the gym or on the track but in the mind? That’s exactly the truth, according to motivational specialist Dr. Michelle Segar in her book, No Sweat: How the Simple Science of Motivation Can Unlock a Lifetime of Fitness.

(AMACOM, 2015) Segar shares with readers the lessons she’s gleaned from decades of research, study and clinical successes.

Among the more surprising discoveries: everyone starts out strong, but very few finish that way. By applying the techniques she’s developed for her clients, who number in the thousands, readers are provided with dozens of practical steps and many pieces of advice that they can use to turn their brains into their biggest ally in the quest for physical fitness.

FINANCES

RELATIONSHIPS

Simple Money: A No-Nonsense Guide to Personal Finance

By Tim Maurer

How to Be an Adult in Relationships: The Five Keys to Mindful Loving

By David Richo and Kathlyn Hendricks

Planning for retirement?

Better hire a consultant.

Want to get out of debt?

Call a credit recovery agency. In the hole on your checking account? Good luck. Maybe your banker can help. Personal finances are complicated – but they don’t have to be. In fact, Tim Maurer believes they’re simpler than even the worst spendthrift imagines.

In Simple Money (Baker, 2016), Maurer outlines a common-sense approach to improving your personal finances, so that you’re in charge of your money, not the other way around.

It’s not about envelopes of cash or even multiple checking accounts. Instead, Maurer contends it’s about assessing your values and figuring out how your money can serve them for many years, including your retirement.

FAMILY Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World: How One Family Learned That Saying No Can Lead to Life’s Biggest Yes

By Kristen Welch Growing up, chances are you heard your parents say “No!” on more than one occasion. And, like many, chances are that many times you tell your kids “no” only to follow it by “because I said so.”

That’s quite possibly one of the greatest steps you can take in rearing your children, according to Kristen Welch in Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World: How One Family Learned That Saying No Can Lead to Life’s Biggest Yes. (Tyndale Momentum, 2016) That’s because our kids are growing up in one of the most entitled worlds imaginable, and by learning the all that comes with no, we’re helping teach them one of the most valuable lessons they can learn: selfrestraint. It starts with “want” versus “need.”

Realizing the mature, adult relationship you’re seeking doesn’t mean extra time spent surfing Tinder or filling out the second level of questions on Match.com.

In fact, according to author David Richo, finding an adult relationship is as easy as learning the five steps to nurturing them. That’s what he argues in How to be an Adult in Relationships: The Five Keys to Mindful Loving (Shambala, 2002).

Those five keys are simple enough: Attention, Acceptance, Appreciation, Affection and Allowing.

And by mastering these five keys, you will unlock the potential of all of your relationships through a deeper understanding of your partner, their decisions, and their needs. Best of all, through Richo’s Five A’s approach, you’ll eliminate one of the biggest threats to your happiness and your relationship: your own judgmental nature.

FASHION The Gospel According to Coco Chanel: Life Lessons from the World’s Most Elegant Woman

By Karen Karbo If ever you wanted to make the case that true style is utterly timeless, look no further than Coco Chanel, designer, bon vivant and all around maven of fashion and style. In The Gospel According to Coco Chanel (Skirt!, 2009) author Karen Karbo takes an enthusiastic and enlightening look at all things Coco, distilling from the icon’s life to help you tackle everything from what to wear to a party to how to converse with friends about controversial subjects. Part fashion guide, part self-help, and part biography, this little book is sure to keep you entertained as it educates you on how best to prepare yourself for virtually any situation imaginable. And that’s exactly what Coco would want!

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Come Be a Part of St. Frederick St. Frederick High School Students Achieve Success Inside and Outside the Classroom

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HARACTER IS ALWAYS A resounding term when it comes to the students at St. Frederick. This is something about them that stands out among the rest, something that is a source of pride in the school and one of St. Frederick’s greatest assets. St. Frederick students and graduates are people who exemplify good character in everything they do.

At St. Frederick High School, character is the rule, not the exception. SFHS students are all of high character, so it is hard to tout something that is the norm. It is St. Frederick’s best selling point, and it is one of the main reasons why parents send their children to St. Frederick High School. If character is not enough, SFHS students achieve success inside and outside the classroom.

Success inside the classroom: • Top 50% of the SFHS Class of 2017 achieved an average score of 27 or higher on the ACT with the top 20% scoring a 30 or above • 100% of the Class of 2017 graduates are attending over 30 prestigious universities nationwide and received over $4 million in scholarships Outside of the classroom: • Every Warrior sport has advanced to the playoffs for the past three years with several state semi-finalists and finalist teams • Students participate in over 15 clubs and organizations including the only registered high school eSports Club in the state

SFHS is truly a school where students are not only allowed to choose their own paths to success, but it is a school where they are

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encouraged in a family environment to strive to be the very best they can be. The mission of SFHS is to nurture students to be living examples of the teachings of Jesus Christ in an atmosphere of academic excellence. Come see what our school is all about by setting up a tour or by attending the 5th Annual SF Parents’ Association Spring Fundraiser, “Wiggin’ Out for the Warriors.”

This year’s event will be held on Friday, February 2, 2018, at the American Legion Hall, 6:30 pm. Fundraising Chair Sandy Dansby is encouraging lots of fun, while guests “wig out” to raise money for the school’s continued pursuit of academic excellence.

“We want guests to come as they are or wear a wacky wig to this event,” said Dansby.

Plain or “wigged,” guests are sure to enjoy a fun night with lots of good music by Memphis band Almost Famous, Louisiana cuisine, and drinks provided by Marsala Beverage and Choice Brands. “We’ll have great silent auction items and fun bidding on big-ticket items,” said Parents’ Association President Kelly Hill.

Each Wiggin’ Out for the Warriors sponsorship level includes signage and all printed materials. Sponsorship levels are: • Royal Wig, the best value at $1,500. Royal Wigs receive first class treatment with a reserved table for eight, wigs for eight, and hand delivered tickets.

• Warrior Wig, $1,000. Warrior Wigs receive tickets for six and a special gift with handdelivered tickets.

• Short and Sassy, $500. Short and Sassy receive tickets for four.

• Bob and Stache, $250. Bob and Stache receive tickets for two.

This year’s “Wiggin’ Out for the Warriors” fundraiser proceeds will be used to fund continued capital improvements, classroom technological advances and faculty and staff retention. Through its auction fundraisers, the Parents’ Association has successfully renovated two science labs, two computer labs, upgraded classrooms to make them STEM compliant, updated classroom technology and helped to retain excellent faculty.

For sponsorship forms, guests can: • Visit the St. Frederick High School website at www.stfrederickhigh.org, or the St. Frederick High School office at 3300 Westminster Avenue, Monroe.

• Submit sponsorship forms no later than January 15 to ensure that sponsor information is printed on all event materials.

• Make checks payable to SFPA; mail or deliver forms to the school at 3300 Westminster Avenue, Monroe, LA 71201.

As well as sponsorship opportunities, guests can purchase individual tickets for $60 a ticket at the school or on the night of the event.

For more information about the “Wiggin’ Out with the Warriors” fundraiser auction, contact Sandy Dansby via St. Frederick High School at 318.323.9636. Open Enrollment Begins February 19th.

Enrollment for the 2019-2019 school year begins February 1st for students already attending St. Frederick or for 6th graders at Jesus the Good Shepherd or Our Lady of Fatima. Open enrollment for students begins February 19th for all accepted applicants.

Begin your application process now by visiting www.stfrederickhigh.org.

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Re-think function and purpose in your home and rooms. A new year is the perfect time to do this since usually your furniture and objects are moved or disheveled during the recent holiday season.

Your objects can make new friends on the bookshelves - change it up. Think “accidental merchandising.”

Cathi French Roberts & Lori French

Do Everything with Flair Rejuvenating

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hat about two round dining tables instead of one long table? We adore a custom clean inverted box pleat linen slipcover that perfectly fits these circular pieces of furniture. You will discover this change invites more intimate conversations. Also, if your family is only regularly using one table, try adopting the other table for an ongoing puzzle or creative project. This could be your new inspirational space.

Choosing new fabrics to spruce up existing furniture is always a treat. If the shape and style of a chair or sofa still speaks to you - just dress it up. No need to constantly replace, when you can repurpose.

A luxe texture, festive pattern or bold stripe fabric instantly freshens your favorite sitting area.

Reconnecting

Nourishing

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eals don’t have to be complex, and it is easy to have healthy options available in a well appointed kitchen. Start off the new year by collecting different size baskets and other natural materials like copper and marble to showcase winter vegetables. Wood oven baked pizzas with fresh mozzarella, sun dried tomatoes, seasonal herbs, any veggies on hand and topped with truffle oil are scrumptious. Invest in what is real in all areas of your new year.

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till trying to get around to ordering those holiday or new year cards? Maybe you don’t have to spend a small fortune having professional photographs taken or even have printed cards every single year.

For a change, try to simplify your list and send brief handwritten notes on personal stationery. Such a treat to receive, and you can have a collection of different types of cards to tailor to each friend.

Restoring

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pen a window on a crisp day, and let the fresh air in. Your home needs to breathe in the winter just like we do! Even if you open your kitchen or mud room door a few minutes everyday, it is a must to circulate and restore your home. Too cold and dark at night to enjoy an outdoor fire? Start one at noon on the weekend with cool sunshine overhead.

FOR YOUR OWN FRENCH TWIST CONSULTATION, CALL CATHI AND LORI AT 318-355-3041 50 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

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I REMEMBER let go and let God a r t i cl e by PAUL L I PE

I REMEMBER wrestling with the question of why I should trust God steps, because He is so wise. to take care of all the issues and challenges that were to confront me in In the second place, God loves me more than I love myself! He the course of growing up in a world that offered opportunities to place demonstrated His love for me by sending His Son to pay for my sins my confidence in anyone or anything but God. For instance, my father by dying in my stead. Such amazing love! Who would sacrifice his had taught me the principle of tithing. My concern, especially during child’s life for another? I might risk my own life to try to save another, the years of my formal education, but I would not offer my child for was that I might not survive on any other person. But God loved the just ninety percent of my limited world so much that He gave us His resources. What reason did I have to Son. That’s how He demonstrated think that the Lord could or would His love for me. How do I show love sustain me? for myself? I eat too much, and I eat

I suspect that most of us have the wrong kinds of food. I frequently failed to put our reliance totally don’t get enough sleep. I fail to on Him when the burdens weigh keep my body in healthy shape. It heavily on our hearts. How many is readily apparent that I do not love times have we been unable to sleep “me” nearly as much as God loves for worrying about some crisis me. Who, then, is most trustworthy that is threatening us? How much when it comes to making decisions mental anguish have we endured that shape my life? God, Who loves worrying about some unsolvable unconditionally, or me? Again, the problem? This worry, this anguish choice is clear. I can trust Him to take can blind us to the help that is just a care of me and to lead me because of prayer away. God is there, but what His unbounded love. makes me think He can or will do a Finally, God is able to do whatever better job than I can of handling the He wants to do, whereas I am “WITH HIS VAST WISDOM AND LIMITLESS burdens that confront me? limited in my ability. God not only KNOWLEDGE, HE IS FAR MORE CAPABLE

Three truths have become makes decisions for me out of an allimportant to me in facing knowing mind and with a perfect THAN I AM OF MAKING DECISIONS THAT circumstances that seem to love, He also is absolutely able to AFFECT MY LIFE.” overwhelm. I share them with implement those choices. I, on the you, not as one who has perfectly embraced them, but as one who has other hand, am severely limited in what I can do. For instance, I may found considerable comfort in their promise. These three realities can know what is best for my grandchild, and because of my love for him, encourage us all as they help answer the question, “Why should I trust may desire the best for him, but I may be powerless to accomplish what God to take care of my concerns?” is best. God has the power, the ability to do what I cannot do. There is so

The first truth is this: God knows everything, including all that is much comfort in knowing that He is able! happening or will happen in my life. In short, He is smarter than I am.

As you enter this New Year, why not ask yourself, “Can I trust God Man’s knowledge, expansive as it is, cannot compare with the absolute, to take care of me in the coming days?” For those who have faith in His infinite knowledge of God. With His vast wisdom and limitless Son, the answer is a resounding “Yes!” knowledge, He is far more capable than I am of making decisions that He knows everything, so He makes the wisest decisions; He affect my life. My wisdom, when gauged by His, is like groping about loves completely, so His decisions are the absolute best; and He is allin total darkness. So, Whom should I trust to “call the shots” in my powerful, so He can accomplish what He chooses. May you have the daily life? God or me? The answer is pretty obvious, isn’t it? He is faith to trust Him, and may that faith be rewarded with a blessed New immeasurably more able to plot the course of my life and to guide my Year!

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A. ALDEN’S MEMO Atlanta and Dallas based fashion sales representative for Reeves & Company, Analeise Thomas, shares her plan for postpartum weightloss in the coming year.

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ith my first child due the beginning of 2018, I’m already thinking about how I’m going to shed the baby weight I’ve put on over the last 9 months. I plan to breastfeed, so my research on postpartum weight-loss has centered around remaining healthy while working out and dieting so that my baby’s needs are still met. I’ve scoured over blogs, books and Pinterest to find the best advice on how to lose the weight at a safe and reasonable pace. Here is what I found:

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1. Exercise when you can Before baby, most of us are very regimented with our workouts- spin class at 7am, after work run everyday at 6pm. But with a new baby, it’s harder to keep a schedule. In the first weeks, I plan to go on 30 minute walks as often as I can.

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2. Don’t eat like you’re pregnant This seems like a no-brainer but it’s pretty important. No more late-night ice cream treats for me! Going back to your healthy eating habits before baby will help you lose the weight at a steady pace.

3. Drink lots of water Always keep a water bottle in your diaper bag. Not only is this important for losing the baby weight but to keep your milk supply up. The more water you drink while breastfeeding, the better your milk is and the higher your supply.

And did I mention breastfeeding causes your uterus to contract which burns calories!

4. Keep healthy snacks on hand This is something I struggle with- I never have healthy snacks around, and so I find myself getting extremely hungry then binge eating. Add a protein bar or roasted almonds to your diaper bag so you never have to pull-in to a drive-in for a snack.

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5. Eat more protein This is something we all should be doing.

Protein builds muscle and muscle burns fat. Protein also contains collagen which is vital for getting that stretched skin back in to shape.

6. Wear a belly wrap Belly wraps have been shown to not only help shrink your tummy but tighten the skin.

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Bayou Outdoors Rod Haydel’s Game Calls was founded over four decades ago and continues to evolve with the changing trends in the hunting industry. BayouLife meets up with Haydel to discuss what makes his brand exceptional.

Article by Dan Chason Photography by Brad Arender

BAYOUOUTDOORS

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f I had to choose one person that I could spend a day with duck hunting, Rod Haydel would be on top of my list. Not because of his name, prowess with a duck call or product line, but because he is just the kind of guy who has a way of making a slow day in the blind interesting.

I first met Rod back in the early 90s, and we became good friends. I was hosting our television show and had been blowing his duck calls for quite some time. Anyone who knows duck hunting recognizes the Haydel name as its founder, Eli (Rod’s Dad) was a world class saxophone player. He incorporated his love of duck hunting and music into a business. In the old days, unless you had a mechanical knack, you were pretty much limited in what duck calls you could use. Most had the same flaw: They didn’t blow well when wet or frozen. Eli took the concept of the reed from a saxophone and incorporated it into what is still used in all of Haydel’s duck and goose calls. His sales pitch was pretty ingenious. Eli would set up an aquarium anywhere he could find an audience, and would float his hand made duck calls in the water. When a potential

customer walked up, he would pull the call from the tank and blow it. And it sounded perfect. The other thing Eli was famous for was the introduction of a double reed in the call for a more raspy, duck sounding call. I remember the first time I blew a DR-85, which to this day is the top selling call made by Haydel’s. I was in love. But I struggled with the speckled belly goose call.

One day in the blind, after hearing Rod sing a goose’s love song, I convinced him to teach me the trick to blowing it. He explained that by placing the end of the middle finger over the end, it caused the reed to double back giving it the signature sound of a speckled belly goose. From that day on, it became my favorite goose call, and there has been many a speck that has ended up on the grill due to its music. I asked Rod one time to give me the trick on calling ducks. He explained it in a very simple manner: There is show calling, and there is duck calling.

Many hunters hear a “world champion duck caller” hammer down with hail calls in a high pitched, repeated cadence that works…..for show judges. Rod made the statement, “I’ve never heard a live mallard hen that loud or repeat that cadence that long…it just doesn’t

Rod personally turns out an average of 400 calls a day. This does not take into account the predator calls, deer calls, turkey calls, small game calls and accessories sold by the company.

sound like a real duck.” I’ve hunted with Rod hundreds of times, and I have to admit it. When he starts working a duck, whether it is a teal, gadwall, pintail or mallard, it is like watching a master painter create a work of art in front of your eyes. He relies heavily on a chuckle, feeding call and has one huge word of advice: Always call at a duck’s butt, never at their face. He explained that calling a duck is not what most folks envision. A duck is a creature that gains confidence by seeing other ducks in a hole. If that duck is feeding WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2018 57

Haydel’s has a long history in the great outdoors that was fashioned by a legendary man who just loved to duck hunt. and calm, incoming ducks will respond accordingly. If the caller is hammering at a flight, they will become more wary as it does not sound like real ducks when the cadence is loud and constant.

I have hunted with other duck hunters, who have success with their own methods.

But I can attest by the limits Rod and I have harvested, his method works and works well.

As far as decoy set up, Rod is a believer in moving a spread as the wind changes. I have reset decoys up to 3 times in one day, while hunting with him. His analogy is that ducks do not like to land OVER feeding ducks. They prefer to bank into the wind and hit an open hole close to the feeding ducks. Little things do make a difference, such as paying attention to wind direction and changing weather such as blue bird skies to cloudy. Staying hidden and avoiding movement, such as looking up, can change a bird watching trip to a quick limit.

Haydel’s Game Calls was founded in 1981. Eli was a salesman for WW Grainger and worked both crafts until going fulltime in 1984 with his duck call business. The first duck call, commercially produced was a plastic call which was one of the first of its kind. According to Rod, this is the reason the call would blow when wet. The expansion of wood when wet is the reason a wooden call will not blow in optimum conditions.

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The plastic call was a M-81, which today is as valuable to an old duck hunter as his A-5 Browning. Eli covered from Shreveport to southwest Louisiana with Grainger and established many relationships with hardware stores, where his duck calls were first introduced. The calls quickly sold, and word got out that this call was the thing to use. Soon Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops picked them up in the mid-80s and the rest was history.

Rod started with the company as a summertime job for him, making and selling calls. Upon graduation from NLU in 1986, he came full time back to the company with the marketing degree he earned.

Today’s company is run by Rod, his brother Kelly, wife Pam, stepson Heath, Pam’s cousin Donna, and Rachel (the only non-family member) make up the team at Haydel’s. Kelly and Rod personally make the duck and goose calls including tuning. I can attest to his personal attention, as most times that Rod comes on a hunt, his fingers are bandaged, scarred and calloused from the task of putting together calls. I have seen him take the lull of a slow hunt, reach in his bag and start tuning duck calls during our times in the blind.

Rod personally turns out an average of 400 calls a day. This does not take into account the predator calls, deer calls, turkey

calls, small game calls and accessories sold by the company. This time consuming effort does not include the many trade shows, personal appearances, or of course, duck and deer hunts that have to take precious time to fulfill.

Things in the hunting industry are constantly changing. Things like changes to styles of hunting for specklebelly goose or predator hunting. Working with family members can be a challenge, as Rod has learned since the passing of Eli in 2013. Eli had full confidence in Rod and took his role as the face of Haydel’s but gave Rod the ability to do what he did best and that was market the products and run the day to day operations of the company. Such was the case with the new speck calls. Kelly had a vision, and according to Rod, took this new project and adapted to the newest trend to allow for the introduction of new product lines with much success.

Rod’s passion is turkey hunting. Rod loves friction calls. He makes a friction call he named the Walnut Glass, which is by far the best friction call I’ve ever used. He also produces a unique product, called the Turkey Flute. This call is designed much like a duck call, but the caller actually “spits” into it to give it a very unique and desirable sound.

This call will do every sound a turkey makes from a purr to a gobble.

Rod’s analogy on turkey calls is to keep it simple. They no longer produce mouth calls as with the Flute and Walnut Glass; it allows a turkey hunter, whether novice or pro, to go to the woods with confidence.

Rod will quickly credit his family and team for the successes of Haydel’s Game Calls. His dad had a dream, and luckily he had sons who took that dream and have now further established the company as a leader in the game call industry. This is done by producing a quality product, keeping things simple as to application and design and from maintaining a strong work ethic.

Haydel’s has a long history in the great outdoors that was fashioned by a legendary man, who just loved to duck hunt. From my experiences with Rod Haydel, I can assure you that the apple didn’t fall far from the tree.

The older Rod gets, the more he looks just like his dad. I was honored to know his dad and to have had the privilege to hunt with him. It is a memory I will keep forever. I look forward to my next hunt with Rod, whether chasing deer, ducks or in the turkey woods. I just hope at the end of this duck season, we don’t have time to tune any duck calls while in my blind.

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The ULTRA Lifestyle Live Healthy and Active with More Low-Carb Choices

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ICHELOB ULTRA™ APPEALS TO a wide audience of beer drinkers that are interested in a superior tasting light beer that also promotes a healthy, active, social lifestyle. In an era when many beer drinkers are looking for the newest, hoppiest or most local brew, it is surprising that a light beer that has been around for nearly 15 years has emerged as one of the fastest growing brands in the business.

The Michelob family has been around a long time, has brought us many great-iconic beers such as, Michelob Lager, Michelob Light and Michelob Amber Bock. In 2002, they introduced Michelob ULTRA and it has actually proven to be the fastest growing brand in the business as Michelob Ultra remains the largest share gainer in the US, now for eight consecutive quarters.

Appealing to active people of all ages, the Michelob ULTRA™ family promotes the “ULTRA™ lifestyle,” Michelob ULTRA supports an active, social lifestyle and is proud to be a sponsor of athletic events across the country, ranging from running and cycling competitions to golf tournaments.

NATIONALLY SPONSORED RACING SERIES: • Trirock Triathlon Series • 13.1 Marathon Series • Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon Series GOLF • Official Beer Sponsor of the PGA, LPGA, Champions Tour 60 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

TENNIS • Official Beer Sponsor of the ATP

In addition to national events, Marsala Beverage, together with Michelob ULTRA™ offers local partnerships and sponsors many upcoming local events in the community.

In addition to national events, Marsala Beverage, together with Michelob ULTRA™ offers local partnerships and sponsors many local events in the community. Also, Michelob Ultra is a proud partner of the Monroe Athletic Club of Monroe. “We take a great amount of pride in working with the MAC, Heather and her team at the MAC have supported us greatly over the years.”

It’s positioning – call it inspirational for the aspirational -- reflects a clear understanding that people today, especially the younger, more affluent people that represent the brand’s target audience, are inspired to live an all-together healthier lifestyle. Not dieting or eating less fattening food, but pursuing healthier choices in all aspects of life.

Since Michelob ULTRA™ was introduced in 2002, its high end Americanstyle has appealed to the masses. People who are interested in a low carb lifestyle finally had an option to choose from when it came to beer. Its subtle fruit and citrus aromas compliment this light-bodied beer’s smooth and refreshing taste. One year after its introduction, Michelob ULTRA™ became the fastest-growing new brand in the industry and was a phenomenal hit among adult fitness enthusiasts, adult consumers living an active lifestyle, and

those looking for a great-tasting beer with lower carbohydrates and fewer calories.

The original Michelob ULTRA™ has 4.2% alcohol by volume, 95 calories and only 2.6 grams of carbs per serving, making it one of the lowest carb beer choices on the market. But Michelob ULTRA™ isn’t the only choice when it comes to low carb brew.

The ULTRA™ family offers many choices for a wide variety of taste.

• Michelob ULTRA™ Amber is a beer that is full in flavor and rich in color with great amber taste and 3.7g of carbs, 114 calories and 5% alcohol by volume.

• Michelob ULTRA™ Lime Cactus boasts a refreshing lime taste, perfect for summer days. With 4% alcohol by volume, 95 calories, and only 5.5 grams of carbs per serving, it makes a great choice for healthy beer drinkers.

• Michelob ULTRA™ Light Cider is a light, refreshing cider made from crisp apples and is naturally sweetened. It offers a lighter taste and fewer calories than other ciders.

It is Gluten Free, has 4% alcohol by volume and 118 calories.

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B AYOUKID Z

SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT How to Adapt When Your Child’s Goals Change

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article by Cindy G. Foust

appy New Year to our BayouLife readers as I sit in the comfort of my living room, in front of the fire, drinking a cup of coffee and reflecting on 2017.

First, I am happy to report that I am writing what will be my 60th column for this great magazine that I love so much. Yes, readers, for five straight years I have come to you with tales and stories straight out of my life (or the lives of family and friends, if they are real lucky). Now, whether that’s a good thing or a bad thing remains to be debated, but hey, that’s just how I roll, and if I know you, chances are I have written or will be writing about you.

This month, as I have historically done and what you might expect, I have written about goal setting, goal achieving, teaching your children to set goals, or making and adhering to New Year’s resolutions. This year, in my fifth year of journalistic life, I am not going to do any of that, because hey, what can I say that hasn’t been said, right? Instead, I am going to write this month on a parenting lesson we had to learn, that pertains to one of our children setting and achieving their goals. As is the case with most columns I write, I have to build you a clock to tell you what time it is, and most of the time I find myself halfway through the column and I don’t know whether I’m scratching that watch or…well, you know the rest of the saying, so here goes.

When I was growing up in Butcher’s Hollow, (I didn’t really grow up there as many of you know, I just love the way that sounds and I love Loretta Lynn, so I’m borrowing it for the purpose of this column) we had a pretty idyllic life. I hesitate to use the word “charmed,” but anyone that grew up with me knows there was a certain peaceful, comfortable existence that we just don’t share today. I’m afraid those days are long gone, but we also didn’t have the resources we have today. Please allow me to elaborate.

In my day, there wasn’t much goal setting or big dreaming going on. Sure, I dreamed of finishing college and getting married and starting a family, sharing most of those same dreams with everyone else in my happy-go-lucky life. And sure, I dreamed of being a Lady Techster, what girl didn’t want to be Kim Mulkey (and still do) and be on the team that won a national championship in women’s basketball? Considering my

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high school team won less than five games over three years, that dream probably wasn’t ever going to be a reality. But hey, you can still dream, right?

As I have gotten older, I continue to set goals and dream big dreams, I mean, who doesn’t, and I’ve tried my best to instill that same accountability in my children. Scott and I both try to encourage them daily to pursue their dreams, work hard for those goals and never give up. Those are pretty basic, simple parenting qualities, right? But to me, the real parenting expertise comes when you have to support and encourage your child when they don’t reach the goal or achieve the dream they have so desperately worked for. Or, as in our case, when that goal or aspiration completely changes in mid-stream.

How do you handle it? For me, if I’m totally honest, it wasn’t very well, at first anyway. I mean, when do your child’s dreams become your own or when did they co-mingle? I’m not really sure I can answer that question; I can just say that I think it’s probably pretty common for parents to get very intertwined in their children’s lives and their “goings-ons” as Bitsy used to say. Don’t we all do it? What parent can’t help themselves, while they watch their child work to make a 30 on their ACT (Scott says you could add both his scores and not get a 30 and I’m not even sure why that’s an important part of this story, I just thought y’all might be interested in that family factoid, but I’m glad Christmas has come and gone, so I still get a good gift), get a sports scholarship, maintain a 4.0, or get into medical school? Anybody on my page? It happened at our house, and for years, since he was 7 years old, my son chased a dream that no one could see but him. And then the direction of that dream changed.

Isn’t life funny that way? One day you are in one lane, going on about your business, focused and driven toward one goal, and then BAM (a word commonly used with Super Heroes) your lane changes.

Out of nowhere and completely unexpected, your lane changes in yet another direction that no one saw coming and quite frankly, created a parenting challenge that we had never experienced. What to do, what to do?

I can tell you, and I’m sorry to give myself a poor grade on this, but initially, I didn’t handle it well. I’m flawed, like the rest of the world, and I worried incessantly that my son was making a huge mistake. Scott, on CONTINUED ON PAGE 116

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BAYOU BUZZWORTHY

STUFF A BUS The 8th annual Stuff-A-Bus benefitting The Center for Children and Families’ annual Christmas project was held in December and was presented by The Radio People and Lee Edwards Mazda. The Christmas Project turns to community members to fulfill the Christmas wish lists of children who are served through the Center’s many programs. Sponsors are asked to purchase an outfit of clothing and at least one toy item off the child’s wish list. All toy donations given to the Center by the Stuff-a-Bus campaign were used to provide gifts to children for whom a sponsor cannot be found.

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BEAUTY BAR

SKYLAR SORRELL

On Saturday, December 8, The Beauty Bar celebrated their official ribbon cutting at their new location on Hwy 165 in Monroe. The following day, they hosted an open house with a variety of vendors. From clothing, health products and handmade jewelry, visitors could shop and visit, while checking out the new salon. The Beauty Bar is owned by Lauren Halley Jones and offers services for men, women and children. They are excited to be a growing part of the Sterlington community and look forward to everyone stopping by their new location!

On Wednesday, December 6, Skylar Sorrell officially signed to accept an athletic and academic scholarship to represent Northwestern State University, located in Natchitoches, LA. Skylar will graduate early from Neville High School in Monroe and enroll at Northwestern for the Spring 2018 semester. While she was recruited by many colleges and universities across the southern region and mid-atlantic region, Skylar chose to stay close to home and wanted to play for a NCAA Division I School in Louisiana.

She has spent most of her life perfecting her soccer game, and spent the last eight years playing at the highest level in the state and country with highly competitive teams.

Skylar is the daughter of Michelle and David Sorrell of Monroe.

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If the Crown Fits Move Into the New Year with Confidence

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S THE HOLIDAYS COME TO AN END AND NEW YEAR resolutions begin, we want to take a quick minute to encourage you.

No matter if you are the fittest you have ever been or if you are on day one of your new fitness and health journey we want you to remember to give yourself a break. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Learn what your body needs and learn to listen to it. Some days we just need to eat some fries with that meat patty. Or some days we may need to take a much needed rest day from the gym. Don’t put too high of standards on yourself tor you wear yourself out and give up. It’s all about balance and finding what works best for you and your body. It’s the only one we have, so we have to love it and listen to it!

Good luck to all of those getting ready to make some awesome changes this year! YOU GOT THIS!

Because I am a firm believer in all things active wear.. people ask me all the time what is in my gym bag. Well it can very from time to time, but here are some fun necessities for our “look good... feel good” motto!

5 MUST-HAVES FOR YOUR WINTER GYM BAG! • H igh Waist Full-Length Legging – who doesn’t love a high waist to keep everything nice and tight for all your gym, studio or running needs.

• S assy Sports Bra- just because you need a high impact bra, doesn’t mean that you settle for a boring one! Spice it up with a high neck or some sheer detail.

• T he Perfect Jacket – We believe your activewear should be functional for your entire day. So make sure you grab a jacket that looks great with your leggings and also with your denim and booties!

• W ireless Headphones – GOTTA HAVE THEM! The best workouts are had when you have a killer jam sesh to push you through!

• C onfidence – We are all about look good, feel good. But sometimes we gotta take that extra step to tell your inner queens that we need to love ourselves and be thankful for the bodies and lives that we have.

SLAY ALL DAY (in your great activewear of course)!

*all of these items can be found in store with us!

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sometimes making it to the box for the day just isn’t going happen. So there are many nights that I do a quick workout at home, if I have to miss a WOD. and really it only takes a few minutes. GIVE IT A TRY! After all, we have to take care of ourselves. Our families depend on us. #momlife #hardlife #bestlife SO HERE ARE MY TOP 5 FITNESS MOVES THAT YOU CAN DO AT THE GYM OR EVEN AT HOME. • BURPEES! Everyone hates them. Learn to love them.

• Mountain Climbers. After a few sets of these, you’ll be breathing hard for sure!

• Push Ups. Doesn’t get more basic than this! Try and keep you core super tight.

• Air Squats. Want that booty? Do those squats!

• If you want to take it a further, try some jumping squats.

If the Crown Fits focuses on particular pieces that you can wear to the gym, but also take that same pant or top and throw it on with your denim and a cute wedge and have coffee with the girls. Active to daily wear. We have active wear, true fitness apparel, Mom Life apparel (including all of the mom accessories that you guys love) and Kee Kee Tees. We just resently started carrying fun sneakers to jazz up your active wear look!

On a fun note. We will be doing Yoga Wednesdays! This will be a short lunch yoga class held at the store for just $5. It will be from 12:1512:45, which is just enough time to grab your girls and have a fun break in the middle of the week.

New arrivals showing up daily!

Our new store hours are Tuesday- Friday from 10:30-5:30 Saturday- 10:00-4:00 Our new store number is 318.267.2070

We have had such an amazing holiday season at our new location on the Alley. We want to thank all of our customers old and new for all of your support. So we are having a THANK YOU SALE every weekend in January!

FOR EVERY $50 YOU SPEND, RECEIVE $10 OFF RIGHT THEN! If the Crown Fits hopes everyone has a blessed and happy New Year!

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Judge Jay McCallum Supporters Gathered to Kick-off Campaign

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HE NOVEMBER 16, 2017, SQUIRE Creek kick-off event for Judge Jay McCallum’s Second Circuit Court of Appeal campaign drew supporters from several parishes.

Judge McCallum said this overwhelming show of support was humbling and made him feel like the George Bailey character of “It’s a Wonderful Life” when George’s friends and family came together to support him.

SUPPORTERS AND SPONSORS TO DATE INCLUDE: W. Michael Adams, Ricky and Debbie Albritton, Kevin Alexander, Randy and Patsy Alexander, Rodney and Nancy Alexander, Shawn Alford, Joe and Candee Anderson, Kenneth and Judy Auger, Teresa Avery, Sheriff John and Sherri Balance, Kerry Banks, Ron and Gwen Barron, Stein and Ann Baughman, DA John and Alana Belton, Sheriff Clay Bennett, Greg and Cindy Bimle, Wes Boddie, Bill Boles, Alan Breithaupt, Dan and Kristi Brenner, Sheriff Andy Brown, Cary and Robyn Brown, John Bruscato, James and Leanna Buckley, Paul Bullock, Don and Giai Byrnes, James Close, Kyle Coburn, Paul and Kelly Coburn, David and Brandi Cole, Jim and Laura Colvin, Harry and Alice Cook, Jerry and Linda Cook, Susan Cordell, Max and Christy Cox, Mike Coyle, Christian and Catherine Creed, John and Lisa Crow, Bob and Courtney Curry, Joe and Susan Cusimano, Larry Danna, James and Dianne Davison, Steve Davison, Johnny and Beth Ann Dollar, Mickey DuBos, Doug Dupont, Hez and Sunshine Elkins, Stan and Sheryl Elkins, Wilbert Ellis, Brandon and Susan Ewing, Randy and Rosemary Ewing, David and Romaine Farrar, Johnny and Connie Fatheree, Tommy and Tamara Fields, Tuffy and 68 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Bonnie Fields, Brian Fletcher, Bob and Patricia Flournoy, Guy and Janet Fortenberry, Dawn Frasier, DA Brian and Angel Frazier, Tommy and Angie Futch, Jean Futch, Donnie and Mitzi Gates, Sheriff Dusty and Camille Gates, Sheriff Gary and Judy Gilley, Clint Graham, Ronny and Judy Graham, James Green, Kyle and Amy Green, Marvin Green, Myrt Hales, Lance Hall, Bruce and Cindy Hampton, Judith Hampton, Brian and Stacey Harris, Heath Hattaway, Tommy Hayes, Ranee Haynes, Lesa Henderson, Dennis Hennen, Laura Hennen, Randal Hermes, Mary Hill, Kerry Hill, Scott and Ashlea Hill, Bill and Kelly Hogan, Paul and Johnnie Hogan, Dan Hollingsworth, Benoit and Pam Holloway, John and Liz Hood, Maryann G. Hoskins, Sheriff Wayne, Ret. and Doyce Houck, Tracy and Angela Houck, Ben and Diana Humphries, Trott and Karen Hunt, Laurie Whitten James, Bobby and Cheryl Jenny, Eric Johnson, Bert Jones, Steven Jones, Mike and Pam Jones, Scott and Ava Jones, Sheriff Cranford and Dianne Jordan, Damon Kervin, Don Kneipp, Anne Kilpatrick, Ryan Kilpatrick, Robert Knight, Bethany Woodard Kristovich, Amado Leija, Mario Leija, Richard Lewis, Jack and Ginny Love, Lewis and Pam Love, James Madden, Eric and Sherry Mahaffey, Michael and Sarah Mahaffey, DA Schuyler Marvin, John E. and Tiphanie Maxwell, Johnny and Annette Maxwell, Sheriff Steve, Ret. and Shannon May, Kyle and Tisdale McDonald, Jack and Shelly McFarland, Leslie Read McConkey, Bill and Nancy McIntyre, Jay and Melissa Melancon, Lonnie and Jill Menzina, Ronald J. Miciotto, Drake and Ann Marie Mills, Trey Morris, Randal and Jan Murphy, Lue Charles and Becky Napper, Mark Neal, David Nelson, DA Chris and Kim Nevils, DA Danny and Suzanne

Newell, Joe and Tina Newton, Jim and Tami Oakes, John and MeJ O’Neal, Tom and Gay O’Neal,Tommy and Evalyn Ormond, George and Callie Parkman, Brad and Ashley Post, David Post, Glen and Cynthia Post, Steven and Sandra Post, Winston and Nicole Post, B.J. Price, Danny Prince, Jered Ramsey, Jerry and Lynn Ramsey, Andrew Read, Stanley and Judy Read, Paul and Jennifer Riley, Jack and Patti Rivers, Jana Robinson, Jeff and Ginger Robinson, Sheriff Jay and Diana Russell, Dana Ryan, Val and June Salomon, William Sartor, George and Peggy Sehon, Butch and Debra Sensley, Sheriff Gary and Ann Sexton, Rob Shadoin, Vernon and Theresa Sharp, William James and Tonya Slusher, Billy and Kelly Smith, Brian and Vada Smith, Hunter Smith, Michael Smith, Mike Smith, Wayne and Polly Smith, George and Janelle Snellings, Mitch and Heather Spillers, Paul Spillers, Eddie Stewart, Sheriff Mike and Mariam Stone, Ty and Michal-Jean Storms, Joel Taylor, Jerry and Joan Taylor, Robert Temple, Zeke Tettleton, Tim and Tory Tettleton, DA Steve and Nanci Tew, Trey Towns, Tony Tramontana, Sheriff Mike and Cassundra Tubbs, Steven and Brittany Unkel, Steven Venters, T.L. Ventroy, Verdell Ventroy, Sheriff Ken, Ret. and Beverly Volentine, Kenny Volentine, Thomas and Marilyn Wade, Lamar Walters, Edwin Watley, Loy Weaver, Ronald and Carynn Wiggins, Ross and Sybol Wilhite, Sidney and Charline Wilhite, Andy and Bettie Wilkes, Bentley Williams, Curtis and Louise Willis, Scott Wolleson, Brian Woodard, Russell Woodard, Russell Woodard, Jr., Andrew and Susan Yepson, Ernest Young and Thomas Zentner. Photos courtesy of Pam Dance

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Eddleman Dental Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment Options

BY WENDI GARNETT, RDH AND DR. MARY KATHRYN CRIGLER

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T EDDLEMAN DENTAL, WE believe that a great smile is the key to your confidence. Do you hide your teeth when you speak? Do you have a space or a broken tooth that makes you feel embarrassed when you smile? Maybe you don’t like the color of your teeth? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you are a candidate for cosmetic dentistry and Eddleman Dental is your answer!

Dentistry has evolved into an artistic science far surpassing the “old-school” train of thought of pulling teeth to address the problem. Technological advancements in natural-looking dental materials make today’s cosmetic dental treatments more esthetic, durable and predictable than ever before.

While our traditional dentistry focuses on oral hygiene and treating oral disease, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, smile and overall well-being.

At Eddleman Dental, we proudly offer our patients comprehensive care specializing in all aspects of cosmetic dentistry.

COSMETIC TREATMENT OPTIONS:

Teeth Whitening: If you are looking for a smile makeover, addressing color is one of the easiest places to start. Professional whitening is more effective than over the counter products and can drastically improve your smile and confidence. We offer in-office Zoom for a faster result or take-home bleaching trays. Let us help you smile bright!

Porcelain Veneers: Porcelain veneers are contact-thin, but strong facings used to restore or create the natural look of teeth. To correct chips, undersized or misshapen teeth, 70 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

tooth discoloration or even close spaces, they are bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth, with often no or only minimal reduction of tooth structure. This makes Porcelain Veneers a very conservative but highly effective cosmetic treatment option producing dramatic and beautiful improvements in a patient’s smile and self-confidence.

Dental Implants: Dental Implants are titanium anchors in the jaw that replace missing teeth. When you prematurely lose a tooth, you can also lose the surrounding bone, which can cause you to look older than you really are. With implants, we can not only replace your missing teeth for function, but enhance your smile and facial structure by helping preserve your existing bone levels.

Gum Contouring: Even if you have teeth that are straight and healthy, the beauty of your smile may be diminished if the gum line is uneven or falls too far below the lip line. This is usually referred to as a “gummy smile” or short looking tooth. Your gums should ideally appear even and symmetrical and should act as a frame to complement your smile, rather than as a distraction from it. Fortunately, a gummy smile can now be corrected with a fast, simple and virtually painless procedure in just one office visit!

Botox: BOTOX® cosmetic targets dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated muscular contractions, such as frowning and squinting. A non-surgical and non-invasive procedure, Botox can also target jaw muscles to reduce bruxism and clenching, alleviating headaches and migraine pain. This makes Botox incredibly popular as both a cosmetic and therapeutic treatment. Our doctors will

provide a complimentary consultation during your visit to evaluate your cosmetic goals.

Smile Makeover: If you want to look healthier, happier and younger, a full smile makeover may be just what you are looking for. A full smile makeover not only improves your smile and self-confidence, but can also improve your bite. Smile makeovers may consist of several cosmetic and restorative dental treatments that are designed to enhance the appearance of your smile. Our experienced dentists are dedicated to providing smile makeovers that improve not only the appearance of your smile, but also your oral health and function. Our dentists will listen to your concerns and desires, then carefully evaluate your smile to determine which type of treatment best meets your individual needs.

Call us today! Drs. Eddleman, Cassis, and Crigler can answer any questions you may have about improving your smile! From subtle changes to major ones, we can help you!

We get to know you and your expectations.

Whether you are looking for whiter teeth, veneers, straighter teeth or a complete smile makeover, our team will help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted! Our dentists are extensively trained by the world renowned KOIS Institute in Seattle, Washington to ensure our patients receive the best comprehensive care the industry has to offer. We love meeting new patients and will be happy to customize a plan that improves your smile and overall self-confidence. Your Smile is Our Passion!

Happy New Year from Eddleman Dental!

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New Business in Ruston Glow Body Sculpting Opens its Doors

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E ARE SO EXCITED TO announce that we have brought a new and exciting business to North Central Louisiana! Glow Body Sculpting in Ruston, is your one stop shop for a new and healthier you for 2018! We are here to make you look great and feel even better with three main services, plus products. Glow Body Sculpting will assist you in reaching your goals, whether it is a target weight, inch loss, detox or a more youthful version of yourself for this NEW YEAR!

Every year, about this time we start thinking about weight loss and ways in which to become a healthier version of ourselves. But most the time we move from one failed diet and weight loss treatment to the next, slowly losing hope that we will ever achieve the body we so deeply desire.

But what if we told you that we have safe, and healthy alternatives…that actually worked?

Here at Glow Body Sculpting we combine non-invasive body contouring LED light technologies with a unique total body approach, which is our first main service.

Reimagining a healthier and a more effective way to quickly lose fat and inches to achieve the body of your dreams. Whether you want to get rid of belly fat, banish stretch marks, tighten problem areas or have overall weight to lose, our programs are designed to help you do just that. Weight loss results are achieved fast through a combination of body shaping procedures, lifestyle changes and weight loss programs. With Glow LED Body Contouring Lights, you can spot target

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unwanted fat, lose weight, tighten skin, reduce cellulite and get fast results all with no pain, downtime or side effects, all in a relaxing spa like atmosphere.

Next, our Glow Fitness Pod is like nothing in the area, and has something for everyone! The Glow Fitness Pod is a brand new personalized total body, dual wave vibration massage and dual heated system for relaxation, fitness and wellness. You can relax and take a nap with the lovely scent of lavender while being gently massaged, or you can choose the weight loss setting, which to date has been the most popular.

The Weight Management setting gets up to 180 degrees and you can burn up to 700 calories and shed a few pounds of water weight all in one session. The Glow Pod is dual heated with infrared plus dry heat which provides many health benefits; from helping with sore muscles, recharging the body, relieving tension, reducing stress, to aiding in building a stronger immune system. In our pod there are five preset programs, Relax, Power Nap, Wellness, Fitness and Weight Management. Definitely something for everyone.

We also offer Glow Hydro Photofacial treatments for instant brighter and tighter skin with no side effects, pain, or downtime!

Enlightening your skin has never been so easy. You can enhance elasticity, improve hydration, reduce fine-lines, minimize uneven skin tones and promote collagen activity, all in one treatment!

When you feel good, you look good – and the world notices. Guided by our mission to make people become healthier

and achieve the body of their dreams, Glow Body Sculpting will empower you to radiate beauty from the inside out. We love our clients, and they are the most important aspect of our business.

It is important to each of our staff members that you not only feel comfortable in your clothes but you feel comfortable in your skin! We are not just for women, we have several male clients that have been enjoying the weight and inch loss benefits of our products and services, as well as a few that have even been enjoying our facial treatments. You just cannot go wrong with stopping in and seeing what we have to offer. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment and mention BayouLife for 10 percent off anything purchase! Call 318-224-8884 or email us at info@glowbodysculpting.com. And don’t forget to visit our website for more detailed information on our services and products www.glowbodysculpting.com! Glow Body Sculpting is located at 2314 Commons Court, Suite 6, in Ruston, LA 71270. From Interstate 20 take LA-33, Farmerville exit and go north towards Farmerville and we are just over a mile down on the left in Commons Court, about one half a mile passed Arby’s. We cannot wait to hear from you, see you and GET YOU IN THE GLOW!

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BayouTrends New year, new you, and everything in blue. From bath bombs to sunglasses, pick up these items in winter’s best hue. Available at area retailers throughout North Louisiana.

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1. DEER CREEK BATH CO. 2. AGELESS SKIN LASER CENTER 3. ABSOLUTELY ABIGAIL’S 4. SPA NOUVELLE/DERMA MEDIQ 5. DUPONT JEWELERS 6. SLEEPY HOLLOW FURNITURE 7. PETALS & PEARLS 8. RAIN BEAUTY | BODY 9. FIESTA NUTRITION CENTER 10. IF THE CROWN FITS 11. COBURN’S KITCHEN & BATH SHOWROOM 12. HOLLIS & COMPANY 13.HAIK HUMBLE EYE CENTER 14. HOPKINS DERMATOLOGY 15. MATERIAL THINGS 74 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

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The Beauty Bar

Northeast Louisiana’s Newest Salon Opens in Sterlington

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AUREN HALLEY JONES HAS always dreamed of owning her own salon, and she hasn’t let anything come between her and that dream. After years of hard work and determination, she is excited to open The Beauty Bar in Sterlington. Lauren grew up in Monroe and is a graduate of River Oaks. Upon graduation, she headed to Northwestern State University in Natchitoches. “I went to college and started out in nursing,” she said.

“I always wanted to do hair but was told I needed to at least try college. After one year, I knew it wasn’t for me, and I needed to pursue my true passion.”

Lauren attended Regency Beauty Institute in Shreveport, where she learned techniques, skills and the ins and outs of the hair industry. After graduation, Lauren gained experience at salons in Monroe and Shreveport, but ultimately knew she wanted to be close to home. With 6 years experience, Lauren was ready to complete the goal she had from the beginning – to open her own salon.

“This is really the last spot in Sterlington, so I knew I had to jump on it,” said Lauren. “This is a growing area and I have clients from Bastrop, Farmerville, Monroe, Rayville and everywhere between, so I wanted a location that is convenient to everyone.” So after finding the perfect spot and settling on a name, it was time for Lauren to build her team. “It has always been important to be to be in a fun environment, so I found stylists that are great to work along side of, in addition to

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being amazing at their job and with their clients,” said Lauren.

The Beauty Bar officially opened in December, and Lauren has surrounded herself with a team of stylists that are eager to greet their clients in the new space.

BRITTNEY MARTIN

Brittney has been a stylist for six years and joined The Beauty Bar, team because she is excited about the opportunity to watch something grow. Ever since she was a child, Brittney was always in the salon with her Granny or step-mom, watching them get their hair done or having hers done. “Seeing the connection that a stylist had between herself and the clients and watching people leave with a smile on their face seemed to be really rewarding,” said Brittney. “I wanted to be a part of that and express my creativity, so that’s why I got into the business. “The people are definitely my favorite part of the job.”

Must Have Product: VAVOOM Hairspray JAMIE BROWN

“I have dreamed of being a stylist, since I was a little girl,” said Jamie. “I remember playing beauty shop in my grandmother’s salon and wanting to be just like her, so I guess you could say it is in my blood!”

Jamie brings 12 years of experience to The Beauty Bar, after relocating from a salon in Ruston to be closer to her family. “I already feel at home at The Beauty Bar, and I look forward to having my current clients, as

well as new ones, visit me here!” said Jamie.

Must Have Product: “Blonde Me” Bleach. It lifts up to nine levels as it tones and ultimately saves the integrity of your hair.

KRISTIN BROOKS

Kristin has always loved the fashion and beauty industry. “As long as I can remember, I wanted to become a hair stylist,” said Kristin. “My favorite thing about the profession is getting to make someone feel their absolute best. Our hair is the crown we never take off!” Kristin has 13 years of experience and is looking forward to growing with The Beauty Bar. “It is great to work with like-minded girls and be a part of an amazing team,” said Kristin.

Must Have Product: Monat Rejuvabeads

The Beauty Bar is located on Hwy. 165 North, in the shopping center near Johnny’s Pizza. They share a space with My Southern Baby and are open Tuesday through Saturday. Their stylists can handle cuts and color for men and women, as well as children’s haircuts and facial waxing. They are on the cutting edge and up-to-date on all of the latest trends, including balayage, ombré, highlights, all over color and more!

Lauren is a market partner with MONAT and carries the complete line of MONAT products. She is also certified in NovaLash eyelash extensions. Stop by The Beauty Bar to say hello to Lauren and her team!

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building a healthy body

ARTICLE BY KAY STOTHART RECTOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS

Shannon Dahlum Gives Tips and Tools on How to Build A Healthy Body in The New Year

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itness and nutrition coach Shannon Dahlum believes that gradually developing and maintaining healthy habits is the key to a lean, healthy body. With this philosophy, she has been able to achieve her personal fitness goals and build a successful career helping others to look and feel their best. Dahlum is a wife and mother of three busy teenagers. She is also a business owner, a fitness instructor and personal trainer with multiple certifications, and a nutrition coach with extensive knowledge about the relationship between food and body health.

Dahlum grew up in northern Virginia.

After high school, she attended George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, where she studied art and graphic design. As a child, Dahlum was a natural athlete and enjoyed participating in sports. Dahlum says that although she was blessed with an athletic build, she did not always consider her muscular body to be an asset. As a teenager, she wanted more than anything to be skinny. In her efforts to be thin, Dahlum adhered to strict diets drastically low in calories and followed the low-fat and aerobic trends that were popular at the time, but could never achieve the waif-like figure she thought was ideal. Her dissatisfaction with her body eventually led to an eating disorder and cycles of binging and purging that left her emotionally frustrated and physically ill.

Dahlum was in 11th grade when she met her husband, a native of Monroe, Louisiana, who was living near Washington, D.C. With his support and encouragement, Dahlum says she slowly began to accept and value herself and her own body type. As her perspective and way of thinking changed, her self-esteem and body image improved. Eventually, with the right approach and an attitude of self-acceptance, Dahlum was able to achieve a level of personal health and fitness that most only dream about. “If you can change your mindset, the changes in your body will follow,” Dahlum insists. It was, she says, a gradual process.

Following the birth of their youngest child, Dahlum began visiting a gym regularly with her husband. Their workouts became a way for the couple to spend time together while the kids played in the gym’s childcare center. As their family grew, they continued to make exercise a priority, despite their busy schedules. Dahlum found that she enjoyed and exceled at body building.

Several years ago, at her husband’s urging, Dahlum entered a figure competition. “I wound up loving the process of training for the competition, especially figuring out the nutrition part of it,” Dahlum says. “It was like I was my own science project. It also gave me something to focus on at a time when my life

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otherwise revolved around taking care of our small children.”

After moving to her husband’s hometown of Monroe in 2007, Dahlum joined the Monroe Athletic Club and began working there as a fitness instructor and trainer. She attended the Cooper Institute in Dallas and became a certified personal trainer. With her friend Chad Jones, Dahlum created High Octane Bootcamp, leading group classes at several locations throughout Monroe. Their success with that program led to the opening of Octane Training with a gym facility in Sterlington.

Now the sole owner of Octane Training, Dahlum leads group classes, which focus on strength training and conditioning as well as mobility. Many of her classes utilize Russian kettlebells. “Kettlebell training is a really effi-

cient way of building muscle, getting a cardio workout without any impact, and increasing mobility and flexibility all at the same time,” Dahlum says. “A lot of people don’t move well,” Dahlum notes, stressing the importance of mobility. “A lack of mobility can create problems and injuries later in life.”

Octane Training also offers yoga classes, including Yoga for Athletes taught by Candy Latiolais. Dahlum recently completed a 200 hour yoga training regimen and is now a yoga instructor as well. Dahlum says she really enjoys the group dynamic as well as outdoor fitness classes. Combining these elements, she has resumed her outdoor boot camps in Monroe.

At the gym in Sterlington, Octane Training is introducing a new heart rate monitoring system this January. “Everyone in the

class will have a heart rate monitor on,” explains Dahlum. “You will be able to see on our monitor what zone you are in and rack up points based on how hard you’re working. It kind of levels the playing field for everyone, and makes the workout fun and challenging.”

Dahlum stresses that regardless of fitness level, an individual’s performance, health and body composition depend not only on exercise, but on proper nutrition.

“You can’t achieve results in the gym without also eating well,” says Dahlum. “For lasting change, the most success comes from improving food quality first. This just means getting rid of most foods that come from a factory and including foods as they are found in nature. Body composition isn’t only a result of calories in versus calories out. It also comes down to maintaining a healthy hormonal balance and metabolism.

Whole foods provide the nutrients that your body needs to optimize these functions.”

For those wanting to start the New Year off with resolutions for better health, Octane Training will kick off 2018 with an eight-week nutrition challenge designed by Dahlum called “BodEvolve.” BodEvolve is a habit-based program that will introduce a new habit each week for members to work on. “With BodEvolve, we’ll be creating lifestyle and nutrition habits together to help our members achieve maximum results,” Dahlum says. “It’s a great way to be held accountable and get support, while implementing new habits.”

Dahlum finds habit-based coaching to be most successful. Rather than focusing on forcing the body to lose weight by following a restrictive diet and working out more and more, Dahlum suggests thinking of food and exercise as a tool to nourish and strengthen the body. “When people can make that flip in their mind and concentrate on nourishing themselves rather than depriving themselves, they will naturally arrive at a healthy weight,” Dahlum insists.

“It really comes down to respecting and taking care of yourself, and changing habits little by little.” With a holistic approach to health, Dahlum also emphasizes balance and the importance of rest and recovery.

According to Dahlum, lifestyle changes are more likely to become permanent if they are adopted gradually. “Rather than trying to change everything at once, change just one habit at a time,” Dahlum advises.

“Take a good look at everything that you are doing and try to determine what is stopping you from being where you want to be.

Instead of trying to make drastic changes, slowly remove obstacles, one at a time.”

For those looking to adopt healthy habits for the New Year, Dahlum suggests starting with these three: 1/ INCLUDE A SERVING OF PROTEIN AT EVERY MEAL, 3 to 4 times per day. Protein dense foods can include meat, fish, eggs, dairy or beans. For women, one serving consists of a palm-sized portion of any of these foods. For men, two palm-sized portions equals one serving.

A diet with adequate protein helps optimize cell repair and maintain muscle mass.

2/ GRADUALLY MOVE BEDTIME BACK 15 MINUTES AT A TIME. While eight hours per night is ideal, seven hours of sleep is the minimum the body needs. A good night’s sleep is the foundation for a healthy circadian rhythm, the natural fluctuation for hormones. Sleep is also important for repair and muscle recovery. Without healthy sleep, the body’s ability to grow muscle and lose fat is compromised.

3/ SLOW DOWN AND EAT WITHOUT DISTRACTIONS. Make mealtime a priority and gradually increase the amount of time it takes to eat a meal. Pay attention to the meal, without the distractions of TV, cell phone or a computer screen. Chew each bite completely, pay attention to taste and be aware of feeling full and satisfied. This allows digestion to work more efficiently and decreases the desire to continue snacking throughout the day.

For more tips and information on health, nutrition and fitness, visit Shannon Dahlum’s website at www.shannondahlum.com and Octane Training at www. trainoctane.com.

ON THE NEXT PAGE, BayouLife Magazine asked Shannon to prepare three quick and easy recipes for those looking to build a better body. She walks us through the steps of making COOKIE DOUGH ENERGY BITES with Maca powder - which is most widely know as an adaptogen that helps balance hormone levels. Maca has also been known to promote energy, increase athletic performance, boost the immune system, increase stamina, as well as improve focus, learning, cognitive function and memory. You’ll also find a recipe for GOLDEN MILK. This is a warming, relaxing drink that combines the powerful benefits of turmeric, cinnamon and ginger. Lastly, Dahlum walks us through her CROCKPOT CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP recipe. This easy soup is packed with flavor and packs nutrient dense veggies, protein, healthy fat and healing bone broth.

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HEALTH BENEFITS OF GOLDEN MILK Turmeric This powerful spice has become popular because it’s active ingredient, curcumin, decreases inflammation. That by itself is reason enough to use it regularly, but it has many other benefits I wasn’t aware of. Are you ready for this? Fat loss... especially belly fat. A study done at Tufts University in 2009, showed that curcumin attaches to fat cells and causes them to shrink and contract by suppressing the blood vessels needed to form that tissue.

Researchers also found that it lowered serum cholesterol and proteins that contribute to fat production. I assume that the inflammation lowering effects are what makes the spice help so much with belly fat; inflammation increases cortisol, and cortisol causes belly fat.

Turmeric can also contribute to healthy gut bacteria, is healing to the liver and can lower blood sugar levels and decrease insulin resistance. The spice also has a thermogenic effect in the body, which means that it creates heat. This additional heat leads to faster cellular action, which means a faster metabolism.

GOLDEN MILK This is a warming, relaxing drink with powerful health benefits that I like to sip on in the evening. For those who don’t have an appetite in the morning and usually skip breakfast, this can be a great way to sneak in “breakfast”, with the addition of some Vital Proteins collagen peptides (get it at Fiesta Nutrition or For His Temple Family Foods) and some fat from canned coconut milk or coconut oil.

Makes 2 servings Blend together: 2 cups of milk of your choice (I like Califia Farms coconut almond milk blend) 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ginger pinch of black pepper pinch of cayenne (optional- increases thermogenic effect) raw honey to taste (or stevia glycerite for a sugar-free version) If this is your breakfast: • Add a serving of Vital Proteins collagen peptides to get in some protein.

• Add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to the mix.

I like to toss all the ingredients into a mason jar and blend it up with my stick blender, but you can also use a standard blender. After combining your ingredients, heat at the milk on the stove or in the microwave. Heating is important, as this actually activates the medicinal compounds in the turmeric!

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Ginger This is another medicinal spice with powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant compounds. Ginger is well known to improve digestion, reduce nausea and help fight colds and flu. And, get this Octane members, it’s also been shown to be effective against exercise-induced muscle soreness! In one study, consuming 2 grams of ginger per day, for 11 days, significantly reduced muscle pain in people performing elbow exercises.

I’m not responsible for making that up... just keep that in mind next time you exercise your elbows in class. Ha!

COOKIE DOUGH ENERGY BITES I love keeping these around for a quick, easy snack. I can whip up a batch in not time, no baking is required, and they really satisfy that occasional sweet tooth!

INGREDIENTS: 1 cup pitted dates (about 8 dates) 1/2 cup raw cashews 1/4 cup hemp seeds 2 TBSP chia seeds 1 TBSP coconut oil 1 TBSP gelatinized maca powder (optional) 1 TBSP Cookie Dough Buff Bake Peanut Butter Protein Spread 1 scoop Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides DIRECTIONS

Place cashews in the bowl of a food processor and blend until they resemble coarse crumbs. Add remaining ingredients and process on high speed until the mixture is sticky.

Roll mixture into 16 equally sized balls. Refrigerate until firm (or freeze for about an hour, then store in the refrigerator).

BENEFITS OF MACA POWDER:

Maca is most widely knows as an adaptogen that helps balance hormone levels. Keep in mind that it does not contain hormones, but helps restore health to the endocrine system- essentially helping the body do a better job of finding hormonal balance. Maca has also been known to promote energy, increase athletic performance, boost the immune system, increase stamina, as well as improve focus, learning, cognitive function, and memory.

CROCKPOT CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP I love soups and stews! Those are meals I can cook up on weekends and eat throughout the week to make meals easy on busy weekdays. This one is packed with flavor and contains nutrient dense veggies, protein, healthy fat and healing bone broth.

INGREDIENTS: 2 tablespoons of coconut oil or lard from grass-fed beef 1 red, 1 yellow, and 1 green bell pepper, all seeded and coarsely chopped 2 medium sweet onions, such as Vidalia, thinly sliced 4 cloves of garlic, chopped 2 tablespoons chili powder 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 - 14 ounce can of chopped tomatoes, drained 4 cups of chicken bone broth 3 cups shredded cooked chicken salt and pepper to taste for garnishing: 1 bunch fresh cilantro 1 avocado, chopped DIRECTIONS Heat the oil or lard in a large skillet over medium- high heat.

Add the peppers and onions and sautĂŠ for about 2 minutes, until softened.Add the garlic, chili powder and cumin and cook for another 2 minutes. Transfer the contents to the insert of your crockpot. Add the tomatoes, chicken broth and chicken. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 7-8 hours. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with fresh cilantro leaves and some chopped avocado.

NOTE ABOUT INGREDIENTS: High quality lard and chicken bone broth can be found at For His Temple Family Foods. For the meat, you can use a rotisserie chicken in a pinch, but for a healthier option, roast your own Mahaffey Farms chicken (also found at For His Temple) or cook up some fresh chicken breasts or thighs.

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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

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heat/vent/lights from Panasonic & 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-to-find 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!

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.

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

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UYING A PIECE OF JEWELRY IS THE START OF A relationship. When buying a piece of jewelry in today’s Internet world, the relationship becomes even more important. OK! OK! I get it, it’s easy it’s quick and it’s impersonal. The Internet is good for buying most things – and that’s what you want. But, for something as personal as jewelry, there is a better experience. I hear about mall stores selling extended warranties that are not inexpensive or that someone buys a piece of jewelry from a website, but finds out minor adjustments take weeks,. Not to mention, the expense and hassle of shipping.

In our store, every piece we sell is the start of a new relationship.

We hope you bring your jewelry item in frequently for cleaning, and once a year we will refinish your jewelry item to like-new condition. It will look just like it did on the special day you received it. All this free of charge and for a lifetime.

If you break a piece of jewelry or lose a diamond or gemstone, we will repair it on-site. All repairs are professionally done at our jewelry store located on the corner of Forsythe and 19th Street in Monroe.

Usually repairs are completed within three days.

Everyone has jewelry in their jewelry box that they are tired of.

You may want to trade it for a new design, or we can redesign your jewelry and create a new piece you never thought would be possible.

We can even use your own diamonds and pay you for your old mountings.

Here’s a good use for the Internet…. Find a design, and we can duplicate it. Your idea, plus our talent, making beautiful jewelry. Of course, it won’t be made in China or India, but made in the USA – in Louisiana – in Monroe, on the corner of Forsythe and 19th Street.

Someone told me after hearing about our business, “You’re an old school jeweler.“ I smiled and said, “Yes, I guess we are.” I kinda like that. Yes, we really make jewelry from scratch, and intimately know jewelry and diamonds. We are Gemologists and Jewelry Designers.

Let’s start a relationship the next time you’re thinking of jewelry.

– James DuPont

www.DupontJewelers.com facebook/dupontjewelers Trade – Restore – Redesign — Sell Dupont Jewelers on Forsythe in Monroe Makers of Handmade Fine Jewelry

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2018 85

Simply Lou Just a Little Snow Please article and illustration by Lou Davenport

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ast week, my daughter, Carolyn, called me saying, “Adam is getting snow!” Well, yes, we were both jealous! Adam lives in Taylor, Texas. He just doesn’t get excited about snow like we do, so I called him. He said it wasn’t snowing there. I figured Carolyn just misunderstood the weather report.

About fifteen minutes later, Adam called back, announcing it was snowing there, and it was sticking! He WAS excited! So, of course, all of us got excited, too, and I turned the WeatherChannel on!

Hmmm. Looked like EVERYONE in the South was going to get snow but us. And, we didn’t. Not a flake. The weather radar showed “green” on us, and I don’t think it even drizzled at my house! Vicksburg was wrapped up in about five or six inches. It snowed in Baton Rouge and New Orleans!

When I lived in Vicksburg, Monroe got the snow, and we got ice storms. Given that Vicksburg is sitting on a bluff with huge 86 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

hills and valleys, ice storms are particularly treacherous. There’s lots of bridges and huge trees that ice can cover in no time at all. Then, the trouble starts. It’s a really bad storm, when the I-20 Bridge across the Mississippi River is closed. Everything comes to a stand still. I still get all tensed up just writing “ice storm.”

I wrote the following and posted on my Simply Lou Facebook page last year. It’s still relevant and once again, it’s a true story. Just the facts ma’am, just the facts.

I love Darren Knight’s “Southern Mama” and I’ll be the first to say, “he knows us well!” In one particular video, “Mama” is all “wigged out” over what may or may not be snowfall moving into the area. “Mama” is desperately trying to get to the store for bread and milk, etc. “before they run out!”

I could so identify with that video! I started thinking about the reason we Southerners freak out when even the mention of snow is on our weather report. So, I offer this...

Let’s just say that snow isn’t the

problem. It’s the ICE! WE DON’T LIKE ICE! WE DON’T WANT ICE! The mere mention of “ice” gets me really anxious. Snow is fine, just please, no “ice!”

Many years ago, when I lived in Vicksburg, I “survived” at least three ice storms. ALL were horrible! No power, trees and tree limbs down everywhere, and it was so cold. Down here, we have that high humidity cold....it’s different than “dry cold.” But, cold is cold to me. COLD in the South is brutal. Maybe we are spoiled, but I do NOT care! COLD IS COLD!

The last ice storm was the worst. It came out of nowhere, as they most often do, so I was not prepared. Are we ever? Larry had passed away, Adam and Carolyn were both living in Monroe then. Just Paige and I were still there.

We woke up to a “winter wonderland,” and it was pretty.....for an hour or so. Then, the power was gone. It’s one thing to lose power in one of these things, but, IF a big limb rips off your electrical box, you are “up the creek.” This was the worst time of year for this to happen, because not only are you at the mercy of Entergy, you are now at the mercy of an electrician - if you can FIND ONE! Calling Entergy doesn’t help either.

You’ll just hear a recording. So, I had to start searching for an electrician. Entergy will not come, if the electrician hasn’t fixed the box and approved it! I can understand that, but it sure wasn’t helping Paige and me stay warm!

And, to make matters even worse, you cannot leave your house! Entergy may show up at any moment, and you HAVE to be there. You find yourself on the “low priority” list and they’ll get to you whenever they get to you. So, we were trapped.

Staying warm is one thing, but listening to the wind blow those big, ice covered trees and big limbs is spooky. You can hear them cracking and crashing when the ice gets too heavy. And, it just seems to go on and on.

The nights are the scariest. You can’t see what just fell on what. And you pray that the big trees around your house stay strong and not fall on YOU!

Days went by, and I was still trying to find an electrician. This was at the height of deer season. Most were out of town hunting.

One was even at his deer camp drunk. BUT finally, on day four, I found one. He couldn’t make it that day but promised he would be there the next. He got there, and it took about 15 minutes for him to fix the damn thing.

By then, everyone in our neighborhood had been ENJOYING their power for days!

Yes, I cussed them all, wouldn’t you? We were lucky that our house had a fireplace.

Luckily, we had some cans of soup and a lot

of junk food. But, we ran out of wood. So....I had to go steal some. I did it, too. When you are cold, hungry and hadn’t had a shower in many days, you’ll do what “ya gotta do!”

More days went by. Seven days, an entire week! I think I snapped. Really snapped. I had heard that Entergy had set up a small headquarters not far from us. All the “out of town” guys who had come to help out were sent to these places. I got in my car, and I went searching. (The streets were all thawed and clear by now.)

This “ice storm traumatized Southern Mama” was NOT a very pleasant sight to see. I had on about 5 different layers of various warm clothes and a red satin, fleece lined Victoria’s Secret robe. Yeah, I was sexy! A week without real coffee, real food, heat, lights, and NO HOT WATER....YOU GET THE PICTURE? But I found them and I think I may have “traumatized” them! (I know it was the robe!)

At least 10 trucks were there...parked.... doing nothing.... I pulled in and stormed in there. They had FOOD EVERYWHERE! It was warm, well lit and they were just sitting on their butts having a great time. They had a TV on and music playing. Some were playing cards. Well, I ruined that for them. I think I scared them! I announced LOUDLY

that “one of y’all are going to come cut my power on RIGHT NOW!” NOW! DO YOU HEAR ME?” (spoken like a true Southern Mama!)

I wanted off the “low priority list,” and I wanted it RIGHT THEN! Come on Entergy...

LIGHT MY FIRE!

Men started scrambling around saying, “YES, MA’AM...WHERE DO YOU NEED US TO GO?” I snarled, “FOLLOW ME!” And five of them did in TWO TRUCKS! It took them five minutes to power up my house. I didn’t know whether to cuss them or kiss them, so I just started crying. It was finally over! I think I did say, “Thank You,” in a somewhat subdued voice, but I didn’t feel guilty one bit about actin’ a fool! THEY hadn’t been without power for over a week.

Paige and I HAD!

Well, finally a happy ending...HOT SHOWERS! HOT REAL COFFEE! We warmed up, well, thawed out really. Made ourselves presentable (only had to wear one layer of clothes and our coats!) and headed to Cracker Barrel, where we stuffed ourselves with HOT food! The next day we faced the freezer and refrigerator full of spoiled food.

We cleaned up outside as best we could and got on with life.

SO....say what you want about us

Southerners getting anxious at the mere mention of snow. We’re just worrying about ICE! We know we aren’t prepared, but how can we be? We know that in no time the temperature may be 70 degrees! We have Bipolar Weather....We just “do what we gotta do!”

If I hear of an ice storm coming here to Monroe, my “cat brats and I” will be “outta here!” I think I’ve done my time with those ice storms. Now, SNOW....that’s a whole other “thang.” Just a little. Just a little.

MERRY NEW YEAR everybody!! May 2018 be one of endless possibilities for us all!

(And again, no ice storms!)

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TEENS, SEX AND THE LAW

BY THE CHILDREN’S COALITION FOR NORTHEAST LOUISIANA

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he Children’s Coalition and BayouLife Magazine are joining forces to provide timely information about issues concerning youth. As parents and professionals, it is critical that we not only have accurate and appropriate information, but that we are able to share it in ways that help teens make educated choices. Each month, we will interview an expert, share local data about a key issue and provide resources to help you have a conversation with your teen. This month, our focus is Louisiana law regarding teen sexual activity as it pertains to consent, age, alcohol, internet, texting, sexting and pornography.

Stacie Leblanc, MEd, JD, is executive director of two groups that serve youth; the New Orleans Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) and the Audrey Hepburn Children at Risk Evaluation (CARE) Center at Children’s Hospital. She is the founder of the first CAC in the state of Louisiana, became the supervisor of the Felony Child Abuse Division and began the Family Violence Unit. Staci created “Teens, Sex and the Law” to help her own children make informed choices; she presented the training this past November to parents as part of the Children’s Coalition Speaker Series and to 300 youth at the Ouachita Youth Summit.

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Q: Why is it important for teens and their parents to understand the laws surrounding teen sexual activity?

A: In Louisiana, 20 percent of abused children are abused by teens in what they perceived to be consensual sex. Teenagers have a right to know the laws that criminalize their consensual sexual behavior involving other teenagers, so they can make informed decisions that last a lifetime.

20% of abused children are abused by teens in what they think is consensual sex Q: What is the most important thing a teenager should remember about the laws?

A: No means no at any age, but certain ages make ‘yes’ illegal. Having sexual intercourse with anyone under the age of 13 is aggravated rape and carries a mandatory life sentence, or life up to 31 years if you are a minor. Even if it is ‘just touching,’ and the party is under 13, the penalty is 25-99 years.

Q: Do the laws only protect children under the age of 13?

A: While the penalties for having sex, including oral sex with someone under 13, are more severe than the penalties for forcible rape, there are several laws that protect youth 15 and under, and others that protect youth under the age of 17. If a person between the ages of 13-17 has consensual sexual intercourse or oral sex with someone over the age of 17 when the age difference is more than 4 years, the older person can be charged with this crime even if the sexual act is consensual. The penalty is up to 10 years in jail.

Q: What if you think someone is older?

A: Lack of knowledge of a juvenile’s age is not a defense. No matter how old someone may act or look, the law only cares about the actual age.

The penalties for having sex, including oral sex with someone under 13, are more severe than the penalties for forcible rape.

Q: Is “sexting” a crime?

A: Taking nude sexual pictures or videos of anyone under 17 is a crime. If a juvenile is under 13, the penalty is 25-99 years. When someone under the age of 17 possesses or transmits indecent visual depictions of sexually explicit content of someone under 17 via any communication device, the penalty is up to 6 months in prison and a minimum of 16 hours of community service.

Q: What if someone sends me a naked photo?

A: Even though you may delete it, it is still out there.

It never goes away completely. Law enforcement officials can and many times do retrieve them when necessary. If someone sends you a pornographic item, you should report it to the police. If it is someone with whom you communicate, you should tell them electronically, not to send any such items again. This will provide documentation that you are not a party to such activity, because you, too, could face criminal charges.

Q: What can I do if a friend tells me that they have been sexually abused?

A: A proper response would be, “I am so sorry that

that happened to you. You’re so brave to tell. It’s not your fault. I’m here for you. I’ve got your back and other supportive responses. Help them to tell a trusted parent, teacher, counselor, pastor, coach, friend or other child advocate, who is not directly involved. You can always call 1-855-4LA-KIDS (1-855-452-5437) toll free 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to report abuse.

RESOURCES The brochure, “Teens, Sex and the Law: A Guide for Teens and Parents; Make educated and informed choices that will last a lifetime” is based on Louisiana Criminal law current to October 2011 and may be found at http://nocac.net/education/teens-sex-and-the-law/ .

The Circle of 6 app is a simple tool to prevent violence before it happens.

Youth are asked to choose 6 people who they trust to help them if things get tough during a social situation. Two taps on the screen lets your circle know where you are and how they can help.

Winner of the 2011 White House “Apps Against Abuse” Technology Challenge, the app is available for Android and iPhone, free of charge.

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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New Year, New You!

At The Wellness Center in West Monroe

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“ PLAN TO WORKOUT FIVE DAYS EACH WEEK, I AM

completely giving up all junk food and I will be in the best shape of my life by March 2018!”

While committing to making 2018 your best year yet is a great goal, remember to make your New Year’s Resolutions realistic and obtainable. Planning to work out 5 days a week and eating no junk food, EVER, is a sure way to set yourself up for failure. At The Wellness Center, we have all the tools needed to get you on a healthy, fit track and keep you there!

The Wellness Center offers you the most complete fitness and wellness facility in Ouachita Parish! An indoor pool, free childcare, ladies’ only floor, over 60 group fitness classes, state of the art cardio and weight equipment, certified personal trainers and certified nutritional counseling await you when you enter the doors. Not to mention our professional and courteous staff! Our members love the “club like atmosphere,” “the sense of community and family” and “the cleanest facility around.”

Try something new this year! Incorporating yoga into your fitness routine is the perfect way to join the mind and body. Increased flexibility, better breathing, improved balance, stronger core, and reduced anxiety are just a few of the benefits of practicing yoga. From gentle stretching to advanced poses, barre stretching to flying through the air, The Wellness Center’s nine (9) different types of Yoga and Pilates will challenge your body and mind. YIN Yoga, YogaFit, Yoga Sweat, Yoga 101, Gentle Yoga, Aerial Yoga, Chair Yoga, Pilates and Power Pilates are included in the eighteen (18) Yoga and Pilates classes offered each week. For a more personal experience, contact one of our certified instructors to schedule a private training class or yoga party.

Are you having trouble getting the fitness portion of your resolution off to a great start? Let the Wellness Center’s personal trainers meet you at the door! Our personal training staff can provide one-on-one workouts tailored to your specific fitness needs. They offer the security of knowing you are working out properly to avoid injuries and designing a routine to help you achieve your goals. In addition, they will be your personal motivator, keeping you accountable for attendance, nutrition and maximum effort! Our trainers are ready to get you moving toward a New You!

Kim Albritton, Registered Dietitian, offers this advice for achieving your nutritional goals. “It is important to set measurable and achievable goals that are focused on a lifetime rather than a few short weeks. Fad diets set you up for failure with promises of a quick fix, rigid meal plans and little to no physical activity. Break big goals into smaller more specific goals that are easier to achieve and that will add up to big results over time. Be aware of portion distortion…even a healthy meal can contribute to weight gain if portion sizes are too large. And finally, plan ahead! Planning and preparing for the week allows you to have healthier options on hand making good choices easier.” Contact Kim to schedule your personal nutritional counseling session.

Stop by today and let The Wellness Center help you create a NEW YOU for the NEW YEAR!

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Bayou Dental Group New Year, Fresh Start, Novel Smile

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APPY NEW YEAR! THE NEW YEAR IS A PERFECT time to form a healthy dental routine. We tend to get caught up in our fast-paced lives and forget to take time out to take care of ourselves. It is important to maintain a healthy mouth not only for your mouth, but also for your overall health. There is a proven two-pronged approach to preventive dentistry – good oral hygiene at home and regular dental visits. You are the best advocate for your oral health. Doing your part at home with brushing and flossing is a good start, but you need to go see your dentist regularly for preventive dental care to keep your teeth strong and your whole mouth healthy.

GREAT ORAL HYGIENE AT HOME • Brush your teeth twice a day • Floss once a day • Examine your teeth and gums daily REGULAR DENTAL VISITS • At least twice a year • Professional cleaning to clean places you cannot reach at home • T horough exam to look for signs of decay or other dental problems • Gum disease prevention • Tooth decay prevention – fluoride treatment and sealants ● Treatment of dental problems

At Bayou Dental Group, we like to say, “A lifetime of smiles begins here.” Dr. Finley enjoys taking care of patients of all ages!

We provide dental care for the entire family in one convenient location, including checkups, ultrasonic teeth cleanings, gum disease treatments, digital X-rays, oral cancer screening, cavity prevention, tooth-colored fillings, root canals, implants and smile restorations. Dr. Finley is the 61st Accredited Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and he is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. He has been practicing dentistry for over 30 years and takes hundreds of hours of continuing education to remain on top of the current and future trends in dentistry. Dr. Finley genuinely cares about his patients, and he puts his heart into his work to ensure his patients are getting the best dental care possible. Here at Bayou Dental, we are happy to help you get a routine started and stay on track to maintaining a healthy mouth!

We try our best to make dentistry as comfortable to our patients as possible; we offer nitrous oxide, better known as “laughing gas,” and oral conscious sedation for our patients that have anxiety or fear of coming to the dentist. Let Dr. David Finley and his staff at Bayou Dental Group assist in assuring your oral health is as it should be. If it has been a while since you have been to the dentist, don’t waste any more time; call Bayou Dental today to set up an appointment!

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drawing inspiration BayouArtist, Leigh Buffington, is grateful to be a part of such a strong community of artists and art enthusiasts and plans to keep using her art to connect with others and continue growing that community.

Article by APRIL CLARK HONAKER Photography by KELLY MOORE CLARK

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hen Leigh Buffington was earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Louisiana Tech University, one of her professors said something that totally changed her perspective. Peter Jones, who spent 31 years at Tech, said, “A painter is someone who has the guts to keep making mistakes over and over and over until they end up with something beautiful.” Prior to that moment, Leigh had believed that being an artist depended mostly on natural talent, but Jones’ words suggested persistence could play an even greater role. “When he said that, it opened doors for me,” she said.

Leigh’s professors at Tech—Peter Jones, Nick Bustamante and Glenn Kennedy— changed her life. They not only served as excellent role models; they were also generous.

“They cared about you as a person,” she said.

“They made you feel like an artist and treated you as one. They made you feel like what you were doing was important and valid.”

With their supportive words in the back of her mind, Leigh has continued to grow and refine her approach to art. She believes that striving for a mark and missing it is part of being human and that imperfection is what people find most relatable. “I don’t think people connect to perfection,” she said, “and I think that’s why the perfectionist mentality is so damaging.”

Since that moment in Jones’ classroom, Leigh has tried to work in a way that involves less thinking and more doing. Overthinking, 94 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

especially when striving for perfection, can be paralyzing. Leigh said she’s learned to “let each piece be a failure or success,” and she believes this is the best way to keep growing as an artist.

In her process, Leigh deliberately embraces imperfection. Her current paintings use a combination of acrylics and oils. “I start with acrylic and have fun with it,” she said. “I make a mess. Then I get the oils out to refine it.” During that first “messy” stage, Leigh isn’t yet sure what direction the painting will take.

As a result, this is the stage that makes her feel most creative and free. “Every time I start a painting,” she said, “it’s this new romantic thing.” Then she applies the elements and principles of art, such as line, color, shape and texture, to gain a bit of control over the chaos.

“At that point, it becomes hard,” she said.

“The romance is gone. I just have to keep with it, until I end up with something beautiful.”

The result is almost always colorful, dynamic and full layers. Although approaching painting in this way is hard, Leigh enjoys the challenge of it.

She also relies on outside help to meet that challenge. “When I get in there, I’ve got to call on some kind of cosmic force, because it’s bigger than me,” she said. “I try to let the painting tell me where it wants to go.”

Although this approach has been successful, Leigh has found other perspectives to be helpful as well. She is able to get this kind of support and feedback from a group of fellow women artists. “My friends in the art club have helped me carve off some of my layers,”

she said. “They’ve helped me so much, especially with editing.” The club includes artists Mary Drew Breiten, Emily Caldwell, Anna Rowan, Amy Ouchley, Selina Atker, Jenny Ellerbe and Kay McDonald. They meet once a week to inspire, create and encourage one another. These weekly meetings help keep Leigh motivated.

Although she now considers herself a full-time artist, her transition into that position has been fairly recent. Being creative as a kid was easy and natural. Leigh could lock herself in a room with crayons and zone out for hours. But as an adult, she has battled some insecurities. Until four years ago, Leigh hadn’t really exposed her work to people outside her circle. She had done some interior design projects for friends but hadn’t branched out. Then, when her children all started school, Leigh found she had more time to herself and decided to commit wholeheartedly to making art.

Within a year, Leigh had created a huge body of work, but she had also created everything that came to her mind. As a result, she had a lot of different pieces in different styles. She had made cards, jewelry, oil paintings, prints and more. “I was all over the place,” she said.

Because she had so much work, Leigh decided it was time to expose that work to the public, and she applied for the North Central Louisiana Arts Council’s Holiday Arts Tour in Ruston. The thought of having her work judged and participating in the Tour made her nervous, but she was accepted and said,

when Leigh got tired of feeling insecure, tired of not knowing what she was doing and tired of not feeling confident. She believed there was a point she would reach when all of those feelings would fall away. On occasion, she encountered artists that seemed to have passed that point. One such artist, Dara Engler, had a surprising response to Leigh’s feelings. She said to her, “When you stop doubting, call me and we can talk about how your work isn’t as good anymore.” After the shock of her response wore off, Leigh started to realize that a certain level of insecurity was essential to being a successful artist. It’s a sign that the artist is continually challenging him or herself, which is necessary for growth.

In fact, insecurity may be more beneficial to an artist than confidence, which Leigh has learned is not the best indicator that you’re creating good work. She recalls a moment in school when she was feeling especially confident. She was taking a landscape painting class with Glenn Kennedy, and all of the students were painting. “I just knew I was creating a masterpiece,” she said, but he walked over and said, “‘You see what you’re doing there? Don’t ever do that again.’” The words may seem harsh, but Leigh said, “I was lucky to have been taught by him. He really taught me that art is about seeing and being sensitive to that.” When artists are self-

“It was a great experience.” The interaction with other artists and arts enthusiasts was one of the best things about the Tour and allowed her to start forming connections within that community.

During her period of exploration, Leigh also discovered DailyPainters.com and accepted a challenge from a friend to complete 30 paintings in 30 days. Part of the 30-in-30 challenge was to post each piece online, which made Leigh especially nervous.

But her friend felt it would be good for her to loosen up, work quickly and commit to posting her work. “I’m not a big poster,” she said. “I have to make myself do it, but I don’t want to keep my work in a closet. I want people to have it—to be moved by it.”

Despite her initial anxiety, Leigh agreed that the 30-in-30 challenge was good for her.

“I was putting my little toe in the water to meet people,” she said, “but I was amazed at the reactions they gave me. I want my art to motivate. Even if people don’t like it, I want it to inspire some kind of reaction, and that’s what I was getting.” The whole experience inspired Leigh to be less serious in her approach to painting. She admits that sometimes she still tends to be reflective, but

being too reflective can hinder progress. Now she tries to be more spontaneous and not question so much.

After participating in the Holiday Arts Tour and the 30-in-30 challenge, Leigh decided it was time to focus her efforts and develop a body of work that was more cohesive. “I realized I couldn’t do it all,” she said. Since then, she has focused primarily on painting with the goal of building her skills and improving her work. “I just tried to learn about what other people were doing and tried to support them—to let them know their work was moving me,” she said. “I learned a lot doing that.”

One of the most important things Leigh learned during her first year of focused painting was that other artists are insecure too. “I learned that most artists feel the same way I do,” she said, “and that it’s normal to feel hesitant and show it.” All artists are trying to figure out the same things and develop their own unique identities. Hearing them share their own stories and struggles was reassuring.

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absorbed, they’re no longer seeing. “We’re mediums as artists, and it’s important to get out of the way,” she said. “It’s not about you. It’s about the tree or the leaf.” According to Leigh, when artists connect with what they’re seeing, that connection will come through in the painting and allow others to connect.

As an artist and person, Leigh is continually drawing knowledge and inspiration from those around her. In addition to her professors and other artists, her family has played a huge role in her development as an artist. “We’re very close,” she said. “I just feel so lucky and fortunate. My dad is an amazing man. To meet him is to fall in love with him. We have so many wonderful talks about life, art and how it moves and nourishes us. He’s just a big kid and a great role model, and my mom was as well. They were quite the team.” Leigh’s children are also inspiring. “They influence everything,” she said. “They’re a constant refresher—the things they say and their perspective. They remind me that I’m too adult, but it’s fun and we laugh a lot. Every time I think I have them figured out, they do something totally different or new.”

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Having her family’s childlike freedom and curiosity in her life reminds Leigh to let those feelings influence her art.

Knowing that she can inspire others is also a powerful motivator.

For a long time, Leigh wasn’t aware that her work could have an impact, but she recalls a particular moment that changed that for her.

She was having dinner with friends and one of them had brought a new friend into the group. This woman was interested in Leigh’s art.

While Leigh was talking about the narrative pieces she’d been working on, she noticed the woman had started to cry. “I had no idea it could have that effect. I was in shock,” she said. “But it very much makes it worth it, when you have reactions like that.”

In some ways, Leigh still views herself as a novice, but she has grown tremendously over the last few years. “I’m starting to see a glimmer of my style. I don’t know if I’m there yet, but I think I’m getting closer to the way I want to paint and what I want to paint—my palette. But I’m still learning,” she said. “I think that’s what’s so fun about it. There’s never a day when I don’t feel like I’m brand new at this.”

This constant newness and the people she’s surrounded herself with have made her development as an artist an interesting journey with much to be grateful for. “I think there’s a curiousness about artists that is so interesting. We’re all teaching each other and sharing what we know. It’s just so gratifying to me on every level,” she said. “I feel like the luckiest girl on the planet. I get to do what I love and grow in it.” She is especially grateful for all the connections she’s made and all the support she’s been given along the way. “When I was younger, I used to want to leave here, but now I think it’s all happening here.

People are connecting with each other, and it’s an exciting time to be here.” Leigh is happy to be part of such a strong community of artists and arts enthusiasts, and she plans to keep using her art to connect with others and continue growing that community.

ULM Receives Early Christmas Gift Anonymous Donor Gives One Million Dollars to University

The University of Louisiana Monroe received an early Christmas present on Monday, December 11th with the gift of $1 million.

The estate gift from an anonymous donor is intended for scholarship endowments to benefit students pursuing a degree in education.

Morgan Patrick Morgan (cq), development officer at the ULM Foundation, announced the gift at a news conference Monday. “The donor is a ULM alumna and a retired schoolteacher from the Monroe area, and she is very kind and funny and she recognizes what ULM means to our community and our state,” Morgan said.

“We are absolutely thrilled and grateful for this wonderful estate gift.”

Morgan stressed the importance of such endowments to the university. “Scholarships allow us to recruit and retain the best and the brightest students and remain our biggest need,” she said.

Although the donor wishes to remain anonymous and was not present at the news

conference, Morgan read a statement from her.

“Committing this gift to the university where I was educated and demonstrating an investment in an area where I grew up and live in today is a great way for me to give back,” the donor said in the statement.

“My hope and wish is that my legacy will enrich the lives of future generations at ULM, and they, too, will be grateful for the education they receive from our wonderful university and will choose to pay it forward.

The best truly is on the bayou,” the statement concluded.

Dr. Eric Pani, vice president of academic affairs at ULM, said he was especially pleased the donor specifically targeted education. “It doesn’t matter whoever you are,” Pani said, whether a doctor, a lawyer or some other profession, a teacher played a significant role in everyone’s life. “How did you learn to read and write?” Pani asked. The answer, he said, is teachers.

“This gift will help students who may not be able to financially pursue a college degree

to come to ULM and become teachers,” Pani said.

ULM President Dr. Nick Bruno said the donation was “one of those occasions that happen in all of our lifetimes that have a profound impact.”

“Not only is this a very substantial gift,” Bruno said, ”but considering she was not contacted by the university, not asked by the university. It makes you wonder, are we giving enough.”

Bruno said he hoped the donation would motivate others to consider giving to ULM.

Morgan said the gift of $1 million has been counted toward ULM’s first national comprehensive campaign, known as SOAR. The goal of the five-year campaign is to raise $54 million in university endowment funds.

With the donation announced Monday, Morgan said the foundation has raised 83 percent of the goal.

Bruno said that amounted to more than $48 million, much more than the $25 million consultants advised ULM to expect to raise.

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DETO FOR LIFE

Kick off 2018 right with a time-tested way to jumpstart your system

By Michael DeVault

Think of detoxing as a jumpstart to undoing a season of drinking and of too much sugar, and a way to break some bad habits. ~Angie O’Pry

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t’s no secret that we put a lot of pressure on our bodies during the holidays. Overindulgence in food and beverage isn’t just allowed – it’s expected. And for the most part, we eat too much, drink too much and have a fabulous time doing so.

However, all fun things come to an end, and we face January with a few extra pounds, a metabolism that’s not quite up to par, and more than a few good memories of the holidays we’re leaving behind.

But leave them behind we must, and that means rebooting our bodies to get ready for shedding the extra pounds and the residue of celebration we’ve accumulated. For this, many people turn to detoxing cleanses – dietary supplements and juice regimens to help restore the body’s natural balance, flush away toxins and put us on track for a happier, healthier 2018.

“Think of detoxing as a jumpstart to undoing a season of drinking and of too much sugar and a way to break some bad habits,” suggests Angie O’Pry, owner of Fiesta Nutrition Center in Monroe. “When you commit to a detox plan, if you can do it, complete it for several days, it’s a good way to break some of those bad habits you’ve developed.”

Detoxing can focus on several areas of the body, including liver health, kidney and

bladder function, digestive tract and the colon. Though the systems of the body may differ with each detox regimen, the overall effect is the same: remove the bad to restore the good.

“Everyday life, what we eat and drink, kind of takes its toll and slows down the digestive process,” says Gibson Natural Grocer’s Debbie Sadler. “Fast food and other things we love to eat tend to line the intestines. This affects absorption of nutrients and overall wellbeing.”

By removing the gunky buildup of toxins and bad food products in our systems, detoxing is a means to restore a healthier function to impacted systems. Sadler says a good cleanse includes a high-fiber component to break down the gunk and help eliminate it from the body. This can help restore overall energy levels and improve the immune system. O’Pry agrees, adding that most detoxes ultimately focus on intestinal health, but all of the best plans include some component focusing on the body’s filtration system – the liver.

“It starts with the liver,” O’Pry says.

“If you can get your liver functioning better with herbals and give it a break on the food, that’s a great start.”

Numerous detox protocols focus on liver health, and many companies offer prod-

ucts on that front. O’Pry notes one popular cleanse includes a fasting schedule, refraining from food for several days, while simultaneously taking regular doses of apple cider vinegar infused with lemon, honey, cayenne and cinnamon. Taken two or three times a day, the concoction encourages the liver and the digestive tract to give up much of what it’s holding on to.

For those seeking a hard-core detox, there are companies, who offer supplement regimens, juicing cleanse kits and even clay detoxes. Sadler notes many individuals have had success with the Bentonite Clay detox, which involves utilizing a special clay formula to capture and remove toxins.

Anthropologists and biologists have long witnessed the practice of “dirt eaters” – who consume quantities of the white clay.

What’s only becoming known of late, Sadler says, is how beneficial the compounds are to overall health. In fact, Bentonite Clay has been used as a therapy to remove radioactive contamination from the body in numerous instances. The reason the clay works is simple, according to Sadler.

“It kind of acts as a magnet and removes the toxins from the body,” she says. The result: fewer toxins and a better metabolism – a foundation for healthier living. But, as with all things health-related, be careful not to overdo it.

Both O’Pry and Sadler point out periodic detoxing is a beneficial practice – emphasizing the periodic part. Sadler recommends at least two periods of detoxing each year, one in the spring and one in the fall.

“Just like spring cleaning and fall organization,” she says. “Those are really good times to cleanse, to get your body back into better operating form and to start out on the right foot.”

For O’Pry, she recommends a shorter cleanse once each season.

“Detoxing isn’t just for people who are feeling bad or have been over-indulging,” she says. “People who are healthy and just want to get rid of a bit of holiday excess benefit, too. A rule of thumb is to do a one- or two-week detox at the end of each season.”

Beyond the traditional cleanses that focus on liver and bowel health, other cleanse products and practices can also help jumpstart other wellness regimens. For example, there’s the Smoker’s Cleanse, which O’Pry notes helps provide smokers with a more solid foundation from which to quit smoking.

“This is a selection of herbals designed to help the lungs expel trash,” O’Pry says.

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the lungs and easing the nerves, this cleanse provides smokers wanting to quit with a clearer head and a firmer commitment to the process of quitting.”

Another important factor to consider in the detoxing regimen of choice is that it doesn’t upset your daily routine too much, Sadler points out. Too often, people have the misconception that detoxing means you can’t leave the house, that you’re missing out on living while it’s going on. That’s simply not the case. Instead, Sadler notes the best detox systems fit perfectly with daily routines.

The cleanses are broken down into when you have cleansers for the liver, kidneys and fiber for your digestive tract. And delivery is usually via convenient capsules or juicing plans. The result is a cleanse that is healthy and sustainable for the prescribed duration of the cleanse.

On that front, both O’Pry and Sadler note that cleanses vary wildly, from just 7 days to as long as a month. Most people choose a medium-length cleanse of about 14 days, which provides optimum benefits without the commitment of a long-term plan. Moreover, most of the cleansing products on the market have been designed with portability and user-friendliness in mind.

O’Pry singles out the Renew Life Total Body Cleanse, which features herbal capsules twice a day. The capsules include herbs and vitamins, minerals and other compounds to encourage the body to heal naturally.

“Along with that, eat a cleaner diet, drink more water, more fluids,” O’Pry adds. Another helpful step to add during this 14-day cleanse is intermittent fasting, where you eat regularly several days and then fast for several days with water or juice. “This gives the body a chance to not be working on processing food and give it time to push toxins out of the body.”

Detoxing doesn’t have to break the bank, either. While tales of tales of the $400 cleanse aren’t exactly an exaggeration – they do, indeed, exist – they are hardly the norm. Instead, detoxing is remarkably affordable, especially considering the benefits. Both Gibson’s Natural Grocer and Fiesta Nutrition Center stock numerous detoxing kits both in juicing and supplement form that run from $25 to $40 for a 14-day cleanse.

O’Pry’s go-to introductory cleanse is Whole Body Cleanse: Complete 10 Day Cleanse System by Enzymatic Therapy. This 14day cleanse will cost just $25 for the kit. One of the products Sadler likes is Michael’s Detox, a naturopathic method that is also convenient and affordable, with prices beginning at $27.

One important fact O’Pry points out is that, once you’ve completed your detox, your work isn’t done. She says it’s important to make sure you’re back on track with your digestive tract, before you jump back into eating a regular diet.

“Once you’ve completed your fasting and your detox, be sure to do a probiotics regimen to restore all of that healthy, gut flora for maximum benefit,” she says. “That will help restore optimum digestion moving forward.”

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Quitting Smoking Isn’t Easy But Getting Started Is (and it Might be Free!)

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OBACCO USERS WHO WANT TO BREAK THE HOLD tobacco has on their lives have a proven way of tackling the addiction in Northeast Louisiana – St. Francis Medical Center’s Tobacco Cessation Program. Located at the St. Francis Community Health Center on Tower Drive in Monroe, the comprehensive program begins with an intake session and features group and individual counseling, with ongoing contact as needed.

“We had no idea how many lives would be changed when we started this program,” Rebecca Mixon, program manager, said. “So many people tell us this is the first time they have hope that they will quit and stay quit.”

The average cost of a pack of cigarettes is now $5.44, which means someone who smokes a pack a day spends nearly $2,000 a year.

When smokers try to quit, they often use over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy or prescription medications to help with quitting; however, these medications are costly, even with insurance coverage.

To cover the cost of these medications and counseling, the St. Francis Tobacco Cessation Program connects patients who qualify with the Smoking Cessation Trust, which was created from funding set aside in 2011 following a 14-year class action lawsuit which ordered certain tobacco companies to fund a statewide 10-year smoking cessation program to benefit more than 200,000 Louisiana smokers.

TO QUALIFY TO RECEIVE FREE CESSATION BENEFITS FROM THE SMOKING CESSATION TRUST: • You must be a resident of Louisiana.

• You must have had your first cigarette before September 1, 1988.

Roxanne McCormick, Tobacco Cessation Coordinator, explains that the process of signing up to receive benefits from the Smoking Cessation Trust is simple.

“Our team helps patients sign up and understand their benefits, so there’s no confusion about what to expect,” she said. “It’s a wonderful blessing that so many people don’t even know is available. We want to connect as many smokers as possible with this valuable resource to help break their addiction.”

Marie Easterling, RRT, and Ashley Norsworthy, BSN, are the program’s Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialists. They work individually and in group settings with participants to explain the science of addiction and to monitor their progress throughout their cessation journey.

For Marie, the program is more than just helping the participant.

“There is a generation-upon-generation effect. When you stop smoking, you improve your own health and the health of people you share your life with, as well as the lives of your pets, she said.

Ashley sees the benefits extending to future generations as well.

“Quitting smoking can prevent your children and grandchildren from picking up the habit. If they don’t see you smoke, they are less likely to start.”

To start your journey to a tobacco-free life, call St. Francis Tobacco Cessation at (318) 966-QUIT to schedule an appointment.

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article by Vanelis Rivera | photography by Martin G Meyers

Marinated shrimp and highquality cuts of skinless, grilled chicken are the char-broiled stars of this bowl. Delicious veggies and noodles make it a slam dunk.

bayoueats

Feed Your Inner Athlete Teriyaki Grill in Ruston Serves Healthy and Flavorful Dishes Teriyaki Grill is a health-conscious franchise tucked in the midst of a vast, picturesque skyscape and is the keystone of a quickly developing niche in Ruston, Louisiana. Popular with athletes, fitness enthusiasts and health devotees, their food bowls are likely to assist your wellness goals.

Owner Kay Malone moved to Ruston 18 years ago with her husband, two-time MVP winner, NBA Legend and the greatest power forward of all time, Karl “The Mailman” Malone. The couple wanted to be close to family, and Kay, particularly, wanted her children to get a southern upbringing.

Having lived most of her life in San Antonio, Texas, southern hospitality and respect were second nature to her. They raised their three daughters and one son, Kadee, Kylee, Karlee

and Karl Jr., “with respect for their elders” and the phrases “Yes, ma’am” and “No, sir” at the forefront of their interactions with others.

Kay appreciates the Ruston community for cultivating a family atmosphere, designating it a place where you can attend a football game, let your kids “go crazy,” and not worry about them because “everybody watches everybody’s kids.”

Kay’s relationship with food began with her Filipino mother’s home cooking where she learned the significance of preparing meals for family. Even though she grew up “very poor,” her mother would attempt to make food “interesting.” Kay fondly recalls being served “squirrel and rice,” all while being told that it was “chicken and rice.”

She credits her adventurous palate to her

mother’s sneaky ruses and to being an ‘army brat.’ Bouncing around the world allowed her to foster an appreciation for distinct cultures and cuisines that steadily enhanced her love for food and cooking. She translated these experiences to her family dinner table.

Her goal became to always have a meal on the table every night. She’s the kind of cook that doesn’t look at a cookbook, explaining, “If I look at a cookbook, I look at the pictures and go from there.” A “throw it in the pan” cook, she advises those who stress out about cooking to “add a little oil, add a little garlic” and just “add things that you like to taste.”

An idea became an opportunity when family friend and current owner of Teriyaki Grill, Mike Keim--most prominently known as former Seattle Seahawks offensive lineman-- suggested that Kay open up a franchise in Ruston after noting the scarce dining options in the area. Kay expressed an enthusiastic interest in the possibility of a local franchise that, at the time, was based solely in Utah. To which Mike interjected, “Why don’t you do it?” Initially taken aback, the prospect of partaking in food she could stand behind was just the nudge she needed.

But Kay’s “Aha!” moment for pursuing such a highly demanding endeavor did not arrive until she looked in the mirror. “I gained WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2018 103

20 pounds when I moved here. And I was, like, this is ridiculous,” she recalled. Kay had to admit that she was not taking care of herself. She was eating the “wrong things.” A nutritionist friend encouraged her to implement portion control. That was the “hardest thing” because, like most southerners, she grew up not turning down food as it is considered disrespectful, further disclosing, “I was taught, you have to eat everything on your plate. Don’t leave any food behind.” Kay’s decision to open a Teriyaki Grill was cemented when she decided to pursue a habit of mindful eating, which is distinctly tied to the chain’s tenet on serving healthy and flavorsome meals that are both nutritious and satisfying.

The rise of the food bowl trend is one centered on simple and fresh ingredients, portion control and a wide range of combinations.

T-Grill delivers on this front by loading their menu with the food bowl trinity-- juicy proteins, crispy vegetables and filling fibers. Customers can choose from high quality cuts of boneless, skinless grilled chicken, USDA sirloin steak or shrimp marinated in a “secret marinade” before being char-broiled and served “hot off the grill.” The salmon is quite popular, especially during the summer. It is most commonly ordered with their mixed rice-- brown and white grains mixed with egg, chicken, green onions and marinade. The shrimp bowl is another frequented menu item, distinct in being marinated with the two house dressings--ginger and teriyaki sauce. Nothing is fried at T-Grill! Their vegetables are steamed cabbage, carrots and broccoli, which are lightly seasoned with salt and white pepper, perfectly satisfying in their Vegetarian Delight bowl, which includes extra vegetables and rice or udon noodles.

Bowl combinations are set on the menu, but adventurous foodies are encouraged to play with the ingredients. For instance, Kay notes that Paleo followers tend to order “massive chicken, extra steak, and they make it spicy.” Kay’s daughter, Kylee, also ventures into spicing up her bowl by adding the spice titled Death Crier, claiming that it burns fat. Kay personally keeps her bowls Mild, but customers who don’t ascribe to those binaries can choose between Medium or Hot. Another level of food-play for customers can be experienced in the house special, which is simply the mixing of all your ingredients before 104 JANUARY 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

they go into your T-bowl. An exclusive, off-the-menu bowl that you will want to ask for is the “Karl Special,” which includes the spicy chicken, mixed rice, vegetables, green onions, mild spice, all mixed before serving, and then topped with avocados and two eggs--talk about a legendary bowl!

Other options on the menu include salads, served with mixed greens, blanched vegetables, the homemade ginger dressing, and topped with either the teriyaki chicken, spicy chicken or ginger salmon.

The sushi rolls -- spicy crab, spicy California or the spicy chicken roll -- would make excellent additions to a bowl or salad, while the miso soup, served with chicken and noodles, is a favorite for sweaterweather days.

Striving to promote mindful food and eating habits, Teriyaki Grill’s slogan is “feed your inner athlete,” which encompasses their dedication to helping their customers achieve victories in “good health and a more active lifestyle.” A proud former LA Tech bulldog known for saying “cut me right now, I’ll bleed red, blue,” Karl wants athletes to take advantage of the restaurant’s discounts, particularly for Grambling, Louisiana Tech and high school athletes. So if it’s after hunting season, he’ll be waiting for athletes, especially his fellow bulldogs, to “come on down” for gratifying chow. Even Kay’s son, current football player at Louisiana State University, will bring his football friends to the restaurant, seven towering linemen seeking sustenance, to devour larger bowls than most, which is when Kay finds herself cooking extra.

Whether you are an athlete, fitness fiend, moderate exerciser or brand new to the wellness game, set yourself up for success on the weekends with T-Grill’s family platters, which can be used to ‘food prep’ healthy meals during the week. If you’re unsure of how T-Grill can help shape a healthier you, Kay encourages customers to ask questions about the menu, bowl combinations or even nutrition facts.

Kay wants customers to have an interactive experience at her franchise that satisfies guilt-free and happier eating.

Stepping into Teriyaki Grill is more like stepping into a collective space hemmed together by the stone-clad North Village retail space, a beautifully maintained landscape cultivating the promise of Ruston’s

“Striving to promote mindful food and eating habits, Teriyaki Grill’s slogan is feed your inner athlete, which encompasses our dedication to helping our customers achieve victories in good health and a more active lifestyle.”

~ KAY MALONE

next possible hub. Kay’s family owns North Village plaza, home to Teriyaki Grill, local favorite Eskamoe’s, a boutique and administrative offices.The building features a ranch-style cozy outdoor patio space with a gazebo, stately fire pit and a nearby interactive park for use by families with children and workout groups. Kay’s future plans for the area include a currently in construction eco-friendly apartment complex of 150, 1-3 bedroom apartments with a pool area.

Incorporating everything that the Malones love into the tentative space, which includes animals, the complex plans to feature a doggy park and doggy salon.

The restaurant doesn’t feel like a franchise, it functions like a family ‘mom and pop.’ The interior is cozy and tastefully decorated with hints of East Asian inspired furnishings. Artistically designed woks have been repurposed as light fixtures while a brass gong-like fixture stands alone. The seating area is varied, allowing customers to choose from high tables that seat two, family-size tables and a familysize booth. You may walk into their doors and find Kay in the kitchen stirring up the dressings, daughter Kylee greeting customers, or Karl flipping marinated meats on the grill. When he’s not grilling, you can find Karl in another exciting Malone development perched across the street from the restaurant. Soon to be launched is Legends 32 Cigar Lounge. Karl, a lover of cigars, partnered with La Aurora Cigars, an established cigar factory based in Santiago, Dominican Republic. The owner, a big time #32 fan, offered to make Karl his own cigar, also called Legends 32. The cigar will be launching around February.

This pocket of Ruston won’t stay uncharted for long, so the next time you take Exit 86 in Ruston, venture to the right side of the highway.

Congregate around what has become a family grill and a place where current legends or legends in the making feed their inner athlete.

Teriyaki Grill is open Monday thru Thursday 11 AM to 8 PM and Friday thru Saturday 11 AM to 9 PM. You can reach them at

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318-254-0777, if you’d like to order for pick-up. You can follow them on Facebook at Teriyaki Grill or on Twitter @Teri_Yaki_Grill. Visit their website www.t-grill.com for more information about family platters, catering and nutrition facts.

New Year, New Light, New You Erase the Past at Hopkins Dermatology

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E INVITE YOU TO START YOUR new year with a visit to Hopkins Dermatology! It’s time to look and feel better with Fotona Laser Treatments!

Hopkins Dermatology was one of the first clinics to offer Fotona Laser Treatments in the United States. Dr. Hopkins also speaks and trains colleagues on the Fotona Laser systems.

As always, Dr. Hopkins is always up to date on the latest technology in her field, which is why she is excited to introduce the newest addition to her practice, the Fotona StarWalker Laser!

Combining four complementary wavelengths and 14 laser modalities, the StarWalker functions as a highly versatile, multipurpose system that performs a wide range of applications in aesthetics. StarWalker’s energy, four colors and proprietary FracTAT™ procedure also make StarWalker an industry leading tattoo removal laser system. Since its introduction, Fotona’s QX MAX has been

globally recognized as an ultraperformance Q-switched laser system. The StarWalker represents the next important evolutionary step forward and takes the system to an even higher level.

FOTONA STARWALKER • Tattoo Removal • Pigmented Lesions • Vascular Lesions • Acne and Acne Scar Revision • Permanent Hair Reduction • Reduction of Facial Pores

Do you have a tattoo you regret? Start the New Year off with a fresh start and have it removed in fewer treatments than traditional tattoo removal, only at Hopkins Dermatology!

The StarWalker treats new and old tattoos of all different colors using FracTaT technology.

FOTONA4D*: NON-INVASIVE LASER FACIAL

This is a series of synergistic, non-invasive laser treatments of both the exterior facial and interior oral cavity, enabling full-thickness contraction of collagen for persistent, nodowntime tightening and volumization, without injectables!

With Fotona4D laser wavelengths and 4 treatment modes, anti-aging is comprehensively approached from 4 different levels, working deeper, medial and superficial connective structures of the skin, as well as targeting imperfections. A full treatment of Fotona4D consists of four separate steps to achieve the beautiful results.

The four “dimensions” of Fotona4D refer to four distinct modes of treatment. All of them are harnessed for aesthetic use in concert to combat facial and neck aging. This system grants the opportunity to achieve face lifting with a cumulative, synergistic effect, with little or no downtime or anesthesia.

Other exciting features of the Fotona Dynamis that are available include: • Hair Reduction • Stretch Marks and Tummy Tightening • Acne and Acne Scar Revision • Lip Enhancement • Skin Resurfacing (a laser peel) • Brow lift • Eyelid Rejuvenation • Neck Tightening and Contouring

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4290 Chauvin Lane in Monroe Traditional Luxury with Modern Amenities

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HIS AMAZING CUSTOM HOME in Belle Pointe Subdivision has four bedrooms, four full baths/two half baths and 5,771 heated square feet. The one of a kind finishes include hand-scraped St. Louis bricks, quarter and hand-sawn antique heart cypress beams, Pennsylvania blue stone on patio, Spanish cedar doors and shutters, reclaimed antique heart pine floors and stairs.

The kitchen is a chef’s dream with Viking appliances including refrigerator, 6-burner gas range, microwave, wine refrigerator. The over-sized black walnut island is a favorite gathering place for friends and family. The butler’s pantry has a wet bar, marble counter tops and lit cabinets with glass doors.

The spacious living room has a brick fireplace and custom automatic blinds. Off the foyer is an executive office that has custom built-ins. Enjoy entertaining in the formal dining room that has heavy crown molding and a custom made three-tiered globe

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chandelier. The whole house is equipped with surround sound.

The luxurious master retreat has his and hers full bathrooms. One has a spa tub with an umbrella ceiling, master closet with plenty of shelving and a mirrored vanity. The second master bath has a double marble shower and huge walk-in closet.

Upstairs are two large bedrooms, each with its own full bath. Enjoy movie night in the 35-foot game room with wet bar. The three car garage has a closet for all your hunting gear and a craft/hobby room for messy projects.

Outdoors is perfect for entertaining on warm evenings. Enjoy custom landscaping and lighting surrounding the outdoor living area with a cozy stone fireplace. The outdoor kitchen has top of the line appliances including a Big Green Egg and deep fryer.

There is even a separate sitting area with a fire pit.

The beautiful home is located in Belle Pointe Subdivision. With high standards in design, construction and maintenance of all property, Belle Pointe will always maintain the reputation as a premiere residential community in the heart of North Monroe.

The area the combines convenience to North Monroe’s shopping and business district with being adjacent to undeveloped wooded areas around the Ouachita River. You’ll see deer in your back yard! It’s just a short walk to the Monroe Athletic Club. This neighborhood has a Home Owner’s Association, dedicated to promoting strong sense of community – each year they host a huge Halloween Block Party.

And each Christmas the neighbors band together to have a Progressive Dinner.

Trenton Dental Center A Family Practice

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OING TO THE DENTIST doesn’t have to be scary, at Trenton Dental Center, you will have a great experience and enjoy your appointments.

From the gorgeous décor, calming atmosphere, smiling and accommodating staff, and Dr. Paige Volentine’s excellence in her field; your fear and anxiety will leave the second you walk through the doors.

Trenton Dental Center is a family practice that provides services from the age of three into the senior years. We welcome individuals and families alike. As a service to our patients, we file insurance claims with most carriers and work diligently to make sure all claims are processed and paid to the maximum benefit allowed. We also accept CareCredit with a 12 month no interest incentive for larger cases, and of course, we accept all major credit cards.

Our facility is designed to perform multiple

types of service at one time, so that our patients can be seen in a timely an efficient manner. Trenton Dental Center values your time, and we strive to stay on schedule and accommodate each and every patient with the upmost importance.

As the holidays approach, we want you to have your BEST smile. We provide cosmetic procedures, implant placement and final restorations and removable prosthetics, along with routine dental care that can improve your smile. Trenton Dental Center offers several options to make your experiences as relaxed and enjoyable as possible; Nitrous Oxide, conscious sedation as well as IV sedation. Our sedation suite is the most up to date as well as our sedation team, and you will be able to rest peacefully through the procedure and wake up with a fresh new smile. In our hygiene division, we have three amazing hygienists with over

30 years of experience and knowledge to help maintain your beautiful, healthy smile and educate you on how to take care of it in between appointments. From scheduling your appointment to your completion of treatment, we aim to provide a friendly and courteous experience.

Dr. Volentine is a hometown girl from Ruston and attended Louisiana Tech and LSU School of Dentistry and is an avid sports fan. Trenton Dental Center is currently recognized as the “Official Louisiana Tech Dentist” and provides their athletes with custom fit mouth guards to protect their smiles. From the football and soccer field to the basketball court, we strongly advise in wearing an athletic mouth guard, and we can customize yours with your team logo and your name. For our patients that have extensive dental restorations, we suggest an occlusal guard to be worn at night; this is also great for those that grind their teeth at night. Being proactive can aide in eliminating costly treatment.

For new patients, mention this article and get a $99 bleaching kit.

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Corporate Wellness Build a Healthy and Happy Workforce with Eat to Lose

BY ANDI HOLYFIELD, REGISTERED DIETITIAN, LICENSED NUTRITIONIST

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LANTATION MANOR NURSING CENTER IN Winnsboro, Louisiana has lost a combined total of 352 pounds among 26 people in only six weeks! Mr. Teddy Price, owner of Plantation Manor says, “I have been amazed by how enthusiastically our staff has embraced Andi’s Eat to Lose and at the tremendous success. We see lots of smiles on the faces of a team that is healthier, happier and more productive at work and beyond.

Thanks, Andi.” Teddy and I know the best gift of all is the gift of health, which is exactly what Eat to Lose offers,” says Susan Price.

This motivated group created a friendly competition with prizes to be won. Staci Knox dropped 23.1 pounds and won first place, Brook Welch lost the most body fat, and there was a tie among Troy Green/Brooke Welch/Jenn Daniels with an astounding 4 levels of Visceral Fat lost! Only Eat to Lose can prove solid results like this. Dr. Daven Spires, Orthopedic Doctor, says that visceral fat is dangerous; he and his wife, Katharine, both of whom graduated from Eat to Lose in November 2014, lost a combined total of 140 POUNDS. Both have kept the unwanted pounds off for 3 years: It really comes down to staying active, eating reasonably well, and using Andi’s tips on how to ‘cheat’ has made it surprisingly easy to keep from gaining the fat back. It is hard for me to believe, but I still weigh less than I did in 1995 as a high school senior,” says Dr. Spires.

Recent 2017 studies have proved that a strong culture of good health can increase morale in the work place by decreasing sick days and conserves valuable staff. Andi Holyfield has made it easier than ever with corporate seminars at your work place and live webinars out of the state. When a group of 15 or more sign up each person receives $100 discount off the 6-week plan price. Some insurance companies aid with diet related illnesses, and many use Eat to Lose as a tax deduction.

“Eat to Lose has been one of the most successful programs that we have offered to our employees in and out of state. It is easy to follow, and our employees had dramatic results. No gimmicks such as pre-packaged foods or expensive supplements to buy really sold the program. Not only did they lose weight, but some got off expensive medications. This program teaches you how changing your eating habits can change your life! Eat to Lose is a solid program that our company will continue to offer in the future,” says Lynne Logan with Gas and Supply.

Give your loved ones the gift of health in 2018!

Call Andi Holyfield LDN, R.D. to schedule your group: (318) 348-3120 Web: eattolose.net (andi@eattoloseinc.com)

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A Night Under the Oaks River Oaks School Auction Fundraiser

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NIGHT UNDER THE OAKS - ANOTHER ELEGANT, Southern theme for the 2018 auction at River Oaks School.

Incredibly, this event continues to get bigger, better and more fun. And what better way to support the Mustangs than to be able to bid on outstanding and unusual items offered in the silent auction and then get even more competitive by bidding in the live auction—and all items are tax deductible.

Silent auction items often include jewelry, paintings, health and beauty products, as well as lovely spa experiences. Fun group birthday parties and health and club memberships are also available for bidding. An experienced local auctioneer conducts the bidding for ski trips, guided hunts and getaways to the beach. Group dinners, tailgating parties and tickets to popular college games are also up for bid. The lively competitive bidding is always fun to participate in and entertaining to watch.

The proceeds will help keep classroom technology updated, buildings in peak condition and athletic facilities top-notch.

Over the last two years, the auction has paid for new bathrooms throughout the entire school and new playground equipment for the elementary school. This year, the auction will benefit another on-campus project.

Then, after all the fun and frivolity of the "bidding wars,” dancing the night away ensues. The Topcats band from New Orleans will be playing for your entertainment while beverages and delicious food will be provided by Catfish Charlie’s, a local favorite.

This event always attracts alumni, parents, grandparents, teachers and staff who get to enjoy this special night with one another while supporting the school they love. Of course, everyone in the community is invited to “A Night Under the Oaks” to have a wonderful night out and learn more about River Oaks School, a leader in providing quality education.

So please join us on Friday, February 16th starting at 5:30 p.m. for a night of fun and fundraising. Tickets will be $50 if purchased before February 1st and they will be $60 after February 1st and at the door. There's a special rate of $40 for alumni. This event will be held at 600 Finks Hideaway Road in the Harry Bell Memorial Gymnasium and is sure to be an elegant night of entertainment and charity.

For any questions or to buy tickets please call 318-343-4185.

We hope to see you under the oaks!

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1/ ZO® SKIN HEALTH EXFOLIATING POLISH - Ultra-fine magnesium crystals scrub and exfoliate dead skin cells to create a cleaner, smoother, more even-toned complexion for all skin types.

Available at Mickel Plastic Surgery 2/ BABY FOOT EXFOLIANT FOOT PEEL - Baby Foot is an innovative foot care product that will make your feet as smooth and soft as a baby’s foot. The unique formula of 17 types of natural extracts allow your feet to exfoliate naturally leaving them highly moisturized.

Available at Ageless Skin Laser Center 3/ HOPKINS DERMATOLOGY NEEDLE FREE SERUM - Advanced formula containing a combination of copper, proline, lysine, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide delivers equivalent results to one injection of collagen filler in just two weeks of regular use. Available at Hopkins Dermatology 4/ DEER CREEK BATH CO. OATMEAL N’ HONEY BATH SALT - Detoxify, relax, renew and pamper yourself with these exceptionally therapeutic bath salts.

Available at Deer Creek Bath Co.

BEAUTYEssentials

We’ve reached out to the top beauty specialists in North Louisiana for their best beauty product recommendations for 2018. photography by Martin G Meyers

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5/ ORIBE GOLD LUST TRANSFORMATIVE MASQUE- This truly modern remedy penetrates to rebuild each fiber with curative white tea, baobob and jasmine extracts and our bio-restorative complex, improving elasticity and fortifying hair to rediscover its softness, body and inner brilliance. Available at Rain Beauty and Body 6/ JANE IREDALE LIQUID MINERALS® FOUNDATION - Hydrate your skin with this light-reflecting formula for sheer to medium coverage.Available at Spa Nouvelle / Derma MediQ 7/ SLIMLINE CELIMINATE CREAM COSMETIC BODY PRODUCT- A unique formula for enhancing the appearance of youthful looking body curves. Celiminate is an exclusive blend containing theophylline, whole leaf aloe vera and natural herbs. Available at Glow Body Sculpting

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8/ ACURE ORGANICS ROSEHIP OIL Rosehip oil is known as a balancing oil due to it’s low pH to help protect the skin’s natural acid mantle while delivering essential fatty acids and vitamin E. Use it as a balancing facial serum, body oil, spot treatment for dark spots, or hair serum.

Available at Fiesta Nutrition Center 9/ BIOPELLE TENSAGE® STEM CELL EYE CREAM - A rich, nourishing formulation ideal for the fragile eye area.

Tensage® Stem Cell Eye Cream helps combat multiple signs of aging around the eyes – like crow’s feet, dark circles and under eye puffiness. Additional ingredients include caffeine, peptides, antioxidants, soothing botanical extracts, brightening agents, sodium hyaluronate and retinol.

Available at Professional Laser Center

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Bath Bombs, Foaming Sugar Scrubs and Bath Salts Deer Creek Bath Co.

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FTER RESEARCHING MANY other bath bomb products out there and seeing harsh ingredients used in them, we wanted to master the perfect bath creation; one that we would use ourselves. We spent many, many hours failing while trying to create the perfect handmade bath bomb, but it finally happened and Deer Creek Bath Co. was born.

When we decided to expand our product line, we researched and found that sugar scrubs complimented bath bombs. We bought from other companies and found them to be gritty and rough, so once again we tested formulas over and over until we came up with something unique. The result was a buttery, foaming sugar scrub that’s creamy, luxurious and as best as we can describe it, a fluffy like frosting. Our scrub cleanses, moisturizes and exfoliates. All of our products are handmade right here in Bonita, LA using only the highest quality ingredients.

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• O ur Bath Bombs are handmade circular fizzy’s that you drop in a warm bath, infused with skin nourishing oils, such as sweet almond oil and grapeseed oil. The bath bombs release a wonderful fragrance and have Epsom salt for therapeutic healing.

• Our Foaming Body Sugar Scrubs exfoliate and lather up like soap without the oily mess of traditional scrubs. Our scrubs are in a fluffy, frosting-like soap base containing a drizzle of olive oil to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the entire body. Our scrubs can be used both in the bath and shower and feel like butter to the skin.

• Our Bath Salts are everything you need to detoxify, relax, renew and totally pamper yourself! We use the highest quality, USP grade Epsom salt available with magnesium sulfate that is known for its exceptional therapeutic value and purity.

Most of our products include Epsom salt

which relieves stress and relaxes tired, achy muscles and is enhanced by our extra fragrant aromas. Our bath bombs are mixed with luxurious ingredients like Epsom Salt, Citric Acid, Sweet Almond Oil and Grape Seed Oil that literally “explodes” like a little fizzy bomb in your tub to relax, soothe and make your skin ultra-soft to the touch.

Our goal at Deer Creek Bath Co. is to make fun, fabulous, hand-crafted products from only the finest ingredients that are affordable to everyone. Each product is made fresh to order and created to be different from competitors with bold, unique fragrances and bright, saturated colors to make them fun to look at and even more fun to use! With the quality of our products and pricing, we have experienced overwhelming popularity.

We sincerely hope our products bring you incredible relaxation that makes you feel and smell fabulous!

The ABC’s of Financial Planning Argent Advisors in Monroe Explains

BY JUSTIN MAILHES

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INANCIAL PLANNING IS AN important step toward a financial peace of mind. How much money will I need to retire, when can I retire or will I run out of money are questions everyone will think about in their lifetime. At Argent, we like to view financial planning in three parts: establish, manage and protect.

ESTABLISHING A PLAN

Every client’s goals will be different and should be treated as such. An idea that works for one family may not necessarily work for another. So, the first step in establishing a plan is listening to the client and getting a greater understanding of their needs and goals. Then, we jointly set a realistic, attainable financial plan. Financial plans should include savings goals, lifestyle needs, planned retirement date, retirement income and expenses. The effects of

inflation, required minimum distributions and taxes must all be considered.

MANAGING A PLAN

Once a plan is set, we manage the plan and make changes as needed. We will also manage a client’s portfolio based on agreedupon investment objectives that go hand in hand with the goals of their financial plan.

When we manage a client’s investment portfolio, we always review the downside risk of a negative market move. While these can and will happen, they must be managed as not to derail a client’s financial plan. Planning software also enables us to interact with a client to run different “what if” scenarios. A common example is the decision of when to begin taking Social Security.

PROTECTING A PLAN

Part of a proper financial plan is to understand the risks of a plan not working properly. Since life changes are inevitable, we offer regular updates to a client’s financial plan. Market changes, income needs and life goals vary, and planning needs to be updated regularly as changes occur. We will also discuss other “risk” factors, such as the need for life insurance, long-term care risk, retirement income planning, proper structure of assets and estate taxes.

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 one’s objectives fall, we help our clients establish a definitive goal-oriented plan for current needs and for the future. Argent Advisors in Monroe is a fee-based, Registered Investment Advisor firm. We agree on an annual management fee, and then we work for YOU. We do not make money on account activity or have proprietary products. Our independent process assures you that we are acting in your best interest, not in ours! If you have any question about your financial planning needs, please contact our office.

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SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT Continued From Page 62 the other hand, saw the positive and the benefits that the new direction would offer our child. The lane changed…and life went on… and everyone is okay…and no one is sick, or hurt…and everyone is happy…and God’s plan for my son’s life continues to unfold, just in a completely different direction.

It wasn’t my job to question, it was my job to support and encourage and talk through the situation. It has been a valuable lesson for me, as a parent, a parent who continues to grow and learn from my children. A parent, like many of you, who only wants the best for her children, for them to be the best versions of themselves they can be. I also pray every day that my children will be the best of both Scott and I, and they will learn from our mistakes, and our struggles with trying to parent them into adulthood.

My son knew the lane he was in was no longer his destiny, his future, and when he changed lanes, everything began to fall into place.

We could literally see the weight lift off his broad shoulders. But guess what, the lane change had to be his decision. He’s a grown man, living in a lonely world…wait, I just quoted a Journey song, my bad. My son is a grown man now, as hard as it is for me to let go and let him be.

If, like me, you believe that God has a purpose and a plan for all of our lives, I have to trust that plan and trust that He will direct the paths of my son, of both my children. I’ve come a long way as a parent, in these nearly 20 years of having the privilege and the honor of being one. If, like me, readers, you find yourselves deeply intertwined in the

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“goings-ons” of your children, cut yourself some slack, take a step back, and really evaluate your situation. Is it healthy? Are you too tangled up in the tinsel?

A lot of this column is written for parents with children who are older, and in a position to start making life changing decisions. But if you have small children, use caution as you make your way into “teendom” and on into adulthood. Most of us just want to be good, supportive and encouraging parents, but we are going to make mistakes.

I’m so happy to report that my son’s lane change has resulted in sheer happiness and excitement for his new goals, his new dreams. Life is so unpredictable, and try as we might, we can’t always control the direction. But we can control how we handle the change, and that, my dear readers, is what I will spend the rest of my life trying to get better at.

Happy New Year, my friends (I think after five years together, we can officially be friends.) I wish for you nothing but prosperity and happiness in 2018 that will also be a year full of plenty of wonderful parenting experiences and memories with your beloved children. Now, if you need me, I’ll be on a remote island sipping from a coconut on the trip that my editor gave me for hanging in there for five years. Or at lunch, lunch would be nice, too.

On Living and Eating Well The Truth About Good Health

BY HOPE ANDERSON, REGISTERED DIETITIAN + OWNER/FOUNDER OF HEALTH WITH HOPE

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LOVE FOOD, ALWAYS HAVE. PRIOR to becoming a dietitian, I was first and foremost a foodie who enjoyed creating new dishes in the kitchen and sharing them with friends. Nourishing your body does not have to be a tasteless practice— eating wholesome food can and should be delicious.

With 97 million Americans currently trying to lose weight, most of us find the promise of “10 pounds in two weeks” enticing.

In the midst of all the “Eat This, Not That” rules, the detoxes and fad-diets, here are some actual food truths: • No universal “ideal diet” exists.

• Food should give us energy and shouldn’t take more than it gives.

• Food is essential. We need it in order to live, grow and survive.

• We need a balance of nutrients: including lean proteins, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats.

• An individualized approach to nutrition is key.

• Diets don’t work. Research shows diets leave us more stressed and less apt to maintain a healthy weight.

So what’s the alternative to a diet, if weight loss is your goal? The Health with Hope philosophy is a “Live It, Not Diet” approach. I help clients establish an overall healthy lifestyle, from which weight loss is a byproduct, not to mention improved sleep, better stress management and increased energy.

Health with Hope launched after I completed a nutrition residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in 2015. Training at Vanderbilt defined what it meant to be a difference-maker as a medical professional and equipped me to return home to impact the healthcare landscape in Louisiana.

I work with people of all ages and health conditions to optimize their nutrition and wellness, ultimately guiding you to become the expert of your own body.

CLIENTS INCLUDE: • Individuals seeking to improve their weight + digestion + energy levels • Families eager to get healthy together • Those wanting to manage diseases (ex: diabetes, auto-immune diseases, etc.)

• Women and men struggling with emotional eating • Athletes wanting to optimize performance through nutrition • Corporations aspiring to help their employees get and stay well • Brides preparing for their special day

The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates was spot-on when he advocated food as medicine. Life happens around food, and choosing the best “medicine” can feel complicated. It’s time to not be stumped by what to eat and shift from a one-dimensional idea of nutrition to a more elastic one. I would love to show you how to find normal with food, your body and your health in the midst of balancing wellness with everyday life.

Connect with Hope at healthwithhope.org and on Facebook and Instagram (@health_with_hope).

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fitGURU

Kemper Baugh

Fitness for Healthy Living BayouLife talks to six fitness gurus about their routines for healthy living. articles by Meredith McKinnie photography by Martin G Meyers

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While Kemper Baugh is a social media staple, often posing in various scenic spots across the area in the latest fashions, one can’t help but notice her physique. It’s one that requires work. A conscious approach to eating paired with a willingness to push herself physically, Kemper thrives on variety, both in the gym and on her plate. Staying in shape wasn’t an initial decision, but rather a result of cheering in high school and college. But after graduation, Kemper knew she would have to create her own healthy lifestyle. And she did so by staying active and paying attention to what she eats.

At The Glenwood Wellness Center, Kemper takes CrossFit classes four times a week. And she takes the same approach outside of class, mixing up her routine with kettlebells, box jumps, dumbbells and treadmill combinations. Sometimes she’ll run on the track, incorporating sprints and walks for variety. She likes changing it up, getting a full body workout. She admits it’s harder to do without a workout buddy; she frequently pairs with her husband Jo or her friend Kayla. They challenge each other and get quality time in as well.

Kemper insists on portion control, rather than eliminating certain foods. She truly believes one can eat pretty much anything within reason if the amounts are controlled. Kemper eats just until she’s full, paying attention to what her body tells her. A typical day would include oatmeal for breakfast, a turkey/avocado wrap with chips for lunch, Greek yogurt for a snack, and a meat with a veggie and carbs or lentil soup for supper. Water is her beverage of choice, but she rarely skips dessert.

Kemper admits, “I’ll eat less food to eat more sweets.”

Kemper encourages others to seek their own version of fit, insisting, “Your fit will look different than mine.” Body shape is a combination of so many factors, so just knowing one has a healthy diet and lifestyle is key. A healthy mindset is essential to Kemper’s life as well, focusing on her faith in God and a positive outlook on life.

fitGURU

Cesar Camacho

Growing up in Bogota, Colombia, Cesar Camacho was always active in sports and fitness.

After moving to the United States, he continued to attend the gym regularly and one day after hearing a familiar beat, he decided to try out Zumba. After all, Latin rhythms are in his blood. He fell in love.

Soon he was a certified instructor with his own class. He found himself on stage at the NELA attempt at breaking the Guinness World Record for the biggest Zumba class. Everyone saw Cesar’s charisma and his ability to inspire others. His energy is legendary. So, with the encouragement of a close childhood friend, Cesar decided to give up his long-term day job at a bank and start his own gym.

He now holds certifications in personal training, group exercise and Zumba Fitness. He’s also a certified USA Weightlifting Coach. At his gym, INFIT, he encourages positivity and team spirit. He teaches a variety of classes including Bootcamp and Kickboxing, where he stresses making small changes, following a plan and giving it time to work. He emphasizes everyone’s ability to be healthy, to not be intimidated. He caters workouts to each person’s own abilities and goals, like a personal trainer, but in a group setting. In his classes you can find a young elementary school teacher working out right next to a grandmother battling chronic arthritis; or a 64-year-old professional piano tuner partnering with a high school student. All on the same mission, they encourage and support each other to accomplish their goals.

Cesar explains that establishing good eating habits counts for about 80% of staying healthy and fit. His motto is, “Clean your plate.” Rather than finishing it, he means clean it up. Anyone can do it.

Start with small changes like controlling portions, adding fruits and vegetables and drinking more water. He also encourages people to record their own journey, either through pictures or on social media. It helps to stay accountable and may help inspire others. For those who say they “don’t have time to work out,” Cesar recommends changing that mantra to, “How can I find time for myself?” Cesar lives this every day, and it shows. He feels good, looks good and inspires those around him to find their own path to health and fitness.

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fitGURU

Evan Develroy

Evan Develroy grew up hating his body. He was a chunky kid because of a lot of childhood trauma and ate primarily junk food. And as a troubled youth, he had no outlet. One day he started doing pushups and situps and running, exercises that didn’t require the equipment he couldn’t afford. He began to see results and fell in love with exercise. In the Army, he trained for a selection program: running 30-50 miles a week, swimming 3-5 miles, biking 50-100 miles. He felt he was in shape, because he could do long distances.

And then he took a CrossFit class with some Navy Seals and realized how out of shape he was. He needed to train for “real life.” In CrossFit, the goal is how fast, how much weight and how perfectly an exercise can be done.

At 36, Evan is stronger than he’s ever been.

After enduring colon cancer and birth defects in his hips and shoulders, even his lab results are better.

He acknowledges most people want an easy quick program, and those never work. He now owns two gyms: CrossFit Ruston and Bossier City CrossFit. For exercise to have the maximum results, one must challenge himself. And for Evan, CrossFit is the most challenging. And after three deployments, it’s the most rewarding. The community aspect really helps to motivate. Returning to civilian life is tough, and CrossFit helped Evan reintegrate into society.

Helping people “healed his heart.”

Evan says diet is “like getting a belt in martial arts.” He prefers the small incremental approach, one change a week. “You would eat a big elephant one bite at a time.” For success, people must forgive themselves; stop hating their bodies. Day by day, be mindful of what you are doing. “The behaviors we do the most are the ones we get the best at.” Evan is also part owner at Jennings Apiaries, promoting sustainable agricultural practices. He also co-created The Better Human App, where people can track what they eat and how to meet their individual weight and fitness goals. Be purposeful, and eventually it pays off.

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fitGURU

Mara Brown

For many, personal training is a fad, but for Mara Brown it has always been a lifestyle. She fell in love with fitness and sports at a young age. As a child, Mara participated in sports such as softball, basketball and cheer, but Tae Kwon Do has proven to be a key influencer throughout her life. Mara claims, “Through years of training in Martial Arts, I have been able to see the impact of determination, perseverance, team work and self-confidence in both my life and those I have trained.” Mara was a four-year national Tae Kwon Do Champion, and two-time Women’s Team USA participant in the World Games, but one of her most prestigious titles is as an IFBB Professional Figure Body Builder.’

Body building is more than just lifting weights; it’s a lifestyle. Mara says, “It’s about consistency and personal determination to be the best YOU. To compete with yourself and to strive for greatness.”

Though her lifestyle is more than just weight lifting, she insists, “Remember Rome wasn’t built in one day, and neither will be reaching your fitness goal. It takes one step at a time.” She hopes her clients will come to see that fitness and health are mutual goals.

Through bodybuilding Mara has learned a great deal about the health industry, especially when it comes to nutrition and the latest “fad and trendy diets.” Mara focuses on whole foods rather than processed foods. She tells her clients that carbs are not “evil.” You can eat carbs and healthy fats to lose weight and maintain healthy eating habits.

Most importantly know what your ingesting. Pay close attention to the nutritional facts. Nutrition can come down to a science. But focus on calories in and calories out. Remember, every unwanted pound didn’t come instantly, and neither will be getting them off. This is when consistency plays a major role in your progression.

“For most, those steps take time. But the journey there is what makes it worth it. Try to stay true to yourself with realistic goals.

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fitGURU

David Thiels

At 61 years old, David Thiels has learned that “staying fit truly does impact his overall health.”

David started running twenty years ago on the advice of his doctor. David’s goal was to increase the HDL component of his cholesterol. Dr. Barnes prescribed more exercise, and that catapulted David into running and other forms of exercise. He joined a running group at the Monroe Athletic Club (MAC) that is open to anyone. The group meets four times a week: 5:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays; 7:00 a.m. on weekends. Running with the group is “like a ministry” for him. True friendships have developed, and the support of his fellow runners has enriched his faith. They share, pray and encourage each other. That sense of community has fostered David throughout the years.

Running enriches his relationship with his daughter, Lindsay, a fellow running enthusiast.

Father and daughter train together as part of The MAC Running Group and compete in races. In 2013, they ran the Tyler Marathon, David’s first, prompted by the desire to run a marathon with Lindsay. It was extremely challenging with many “rolling hills,” but he did it, and he kept on doing it.

He’s run the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon in New Orleans the last two years, reducing his overall time by one minute. And he’s qualified for the Boston Marathon twice. He plans to run Boston in 2019.

Being fit has become part of who he is. In addition to the 26 miles he runs every week, he attends BodyPump classes twice a week, does individual strength training for half an hour three times a week, and has incorporated yoga stretching after his runs. He drinks predominantly water and avoids junk food. He can make hamburgers or chicken healthier than he can buy it somewhere.

He makes a lot of soup, gumbo and red beans and rice. Living on Caney Lake, he loves his fish, a good source of protein. He reduces the quantity of heavier items by starting his meals with a salad.

He has learned that sugar makes him sluggish, and depends on fruit to satisfy his sweet tooth. It’s way of life for David, nourishing his physical and spiritual health.

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fitGURU

Susan Hopper

For Susan Hopper, being healthy has always just been a way of life. She started working in a local gym straight out of high school. And for the last twenty years, she’s taught spin classes and been a personal trainer. She acknowledges that food is 90% of staying shape. She avoids sugar and carbs, anything white. And instead of a cheat day, she has a cheat meal once a week. While there are a lot of diet scams, her advice for weight control is simple: “If you can burn it off, you can eat it.” Susan insists, as she’s gotten older staying disciplined has gotten harder. The temptations are everywhere, especially with young children. But at this point in her life, the reasons for staying healthy have increased. She’s all about remaining fit for her family.

When Susan works out, she slips into the meditation zone. She weight trains 3 days a week for only 30 minutes. Her workouts are “short and hard, not short and heavy.” For cardio, she hits the track, running the straights and walking the curves. On the treadmill, she’ll run 3 minutes and walk four. With her clients, the approach is traditional. She’s all about “lessening the risk of injury.” For newcomers, she advises “starting with a traditional walk and light weight/high rep routine. Susan likes to see “fitness last,” and it’s important to make it a lifestyle change. Portion control and consistency are essential to a client’s success.

Being fit is not her religion, but her faith is paramount. Her hashtag is #godisgreat and she puts it at the end of everything. In her mid-thirties, she took her son to a Bible study, and then she realized the trip was for her. She has been invested in God’s Word ever since. As a result, Susan feels very blessed at this time in her life, her family and health being a big part of that. She’s learned to appreciate what she has, and her mission is to help others see theirs as well.

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MidSouth Medical Inc.

Promote Mobility and Support Daily Living

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IDSOUTH MEDICAL HAS BEEN serving northeast Louisiana since 2001.

We are a locally-owned and operated company based out of West Monroe, LA. MidSouth was established with the idea of helping people stay mobile for as long as they possibly can. We want this experience to be a great one, so we carry a wide variety of colors and styles to make the equipment as fun as it can be.

MidSouth Medical wants everyone to understand why durable medical equipment is so important, for it can support activities of daily living, transfers, and ambulation.

Durable medical equipment (DME) is defined as “reusable medical equipment, such as walkers, wheelchairs or hospital beds” and covers equipment that is used to serve a medical purpose, which can withstand repeated use and is appropriate for use in the home. For people with disabilities, DME improves the overall quality of life.

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When being discharged from a health facility, it can be filled with uncertainty. Home should be a place for recuperation, where you or your loved one can focus on rest. MidSouth Medical has a broad category of Durable Medical Equipment (DME), which address a range of different health issues, but all are designed to promote healing for seniors and other homecare patients. We want to provide our customers with the most practical ways to support walking and avoid injuries from falling. Here are some examples of what could make your home and activities safer on a day to day basis.

BATHROOM SAFETY EQUIPMENT

Falling in homes is common, and it’s a serious problem among the elderly, especially in bathrooms where wet floors can present an unexpected hazard. One simple solution is installing grab bars to help seniors keep their balance. Our selection can give you a variety of

options that will best fit your home and need for Bathroom Safety Equipment. This type of home care assistance is available for $25-$45 per bar at our local retail store.

WALKING AIDS

Canes, walkers, rollators, power wheelchairs and scooters can help seniors maintain their mobility. It helps them move around the home and out the door to visit friends and family. Canes are the easiest to use and are meant for aging patients suffering from balance issues or minor lower-body problems. Power Wheelchairs and Scooters are recommended for patients with a wide variety of impairments, including weakness, poor balance, gait difficulties, sensory deficits, restricted range of motion, poor endurance or pulmonary and cardiac dysfunction. Come by the store and let us help you decide which option is best for you or your loved one.

Happy New Year from your local household medical suppliers, MidSouth Medical. Stay Mobile with us this New Year 2018! Come by the store and let us help you decide which option is best for you or your loved one.

107 Bridge Street, West Monroe, 318-855-0411 Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

A Breakthrough Solution

New Option for Men Seeking Optimal Sexual Performance

BY JUDY WAGONER

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E ALL AGE. IT’S 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 pulse wave therapy,” or ESWT. Pulse waves at specific frequencies deliver a mechanical force to the body’s deep 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.

When we combine Testosterone, along with the P-shot, Sound Wave Therapy and supplements, you can see Professional Laser Center offers many non-surgical interventions to 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?

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Tasty Tex-Mex

Iron Cactus Opens Second Location

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N 2010, BRAD AND LEAH PARKER HAD A CONCEPT THAT combined Tex-Mex food with a fresh, flavorful spin! So the Iron Cactus was born and has become a local staple, known for their family friendly atmosphere that people of all ages can enjoy. And until this month, you had to visit Calhoun to enjoy that tasty TexMex. But no more, as the Iron Cactus has opened a second location in the heart of downtown Monroe. “We are really thrilled about this location,” said Leah Parker. “The entire process of design and reworking the building was fun, and it is exciting to be a part of the downtown revitalization.”

Patrons of the new location can expect to see some favorites that they have come to know and love from the Calhoun location. For appetizers, they offer their signature avocado dippers, as well as nachos, botanas, franchos, quesadillas and everyone’s favorite – the cactus roll – rice, beans, sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese and your choice of beef, chicken or pork, all rolled in a flour tortilla with pork sauce or chipotle ranch. You can also pick from the standard queso or guacamole dip or branch out with loaded queso, 7-layer or chipotle black bean dip.

There are plenty of lighter options with plenty of soups and salads. For salad choices, there are taco, tex-mex chef, fajita steak and corn and black bean chicken salads. To warm you up, you can grab a bowl of chicken tortilla soup or chili.

For entrees, there are different combinations with enchiladas, tacos, tamales, burritos and chimichagas. But these aren’t your average items. There are pulled pork tacos served with Mexican slaw, baja fresh tacos with fried catfish and shrimp tacos, piled high with fresh shrimp, pico, lettuce and jalapeno cilantro ranch. Signature entrée items include the stuffed avocado – a deep fried avocado with beef or chicken and cheese and the Mexican pizza, a 10-inch tortilla topped with beans, chips, beef or chicken, jalapẽnos, olives and cheese.

In addition to the fajitas fresh from the grill, there are grilled shrimp, 16 oz. ribeyes, hamburgers, sandwiches and poboys. Iron Cactus has always been a family-friendly atmosphere, and the new location is no different. There is even a kids menu for the little niños.

If you work in downtown or just want to pop in for a quick lunch, they have what they call the “Cactus on the Fly.” Lunch patrons can choose from street nachos, two tacos or a rice bowl and get their food in under 15 mintues.

And while the weather may be a bit cool right now, the Iron Cactus patio will be the place to be this spring. “We are looking forward to offer the outdoor seating, as well as live music and entertainment,” said Leah. Iron Cactus Downtown is currently open Tuesday through Saturday or lunch and dinner. And while the Parkers are excited about the new downtown location, don’t worry, the Calhoun location isn’t going anywhere. “Our Calhoun friends and neighbors are the reason we are where are today, seven years later,” said Leah. “We are just looking forward to being able to serve more people, in a different atmosphere, with the same food they have come to love.”

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Your Hometown Urologist Dr. Robert Marx

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ROBERT D. MARX, M.D. IS THIS COMMUNITY'S hometown urologist. He was born and raised right here in Monroe, Louisiana. He graduated from NLU, now ULM, and graduated from medical school and completed his residency at LSU-Shreveport. Dr. Marx has traveled extensively working with the leaders of the field in order to keep up with the latest and most successful techniques in relieving incontinence. He has been in practice for over thirty years and conveniently operates at Glenwood, Monroe Surgical and P&S.

Dr. Marx has 24/7 call coverage with other local urologists. He has a standing relationship with each of the other doctors he shares call with and enjoys working with them and his other peers. The office has a wonderful, knowledgeable staff that has worked with him for many years and the majority of his time in private practice, ensuring good continuity of care. It truly is a family practice that loves taking care of it's community.

Specializing in female urology since 1998, Dr. Marx is boardcertified offering specialized care for female incontinence. Dr. Marx promises caring, confidential consultations and personalized solutions for any related problem such as: bladder prolapse, removal of mesh, InterStim, urethral bulking. He also treats male incontinence.

Vasectomies are done in the office with a no cut technique.

Dr Marx is pleased to provide cutting edge bladder neuromodulation techniques. This is also known as “Medtronic Bladder Pacemaker.” Dr Marx has been implanting InterStims for 8 years. His staff is also thoroughly educated in support of this treatment. If your doctor says “you must live with it,” you might not have to.

Whatever level of severity your problem is, Robert D. Marx, M.D. and his dedicated staff are ready to assist you. We specialize in all areas of urology and male and female incontinence and will consult with you on an individual basis to determine the appropriate solution for your particular problem. Our staff will work with you and your insurance company to ensure fast payment processing and help answer any other questions you may have.

Dr. Marx prides himself on the personal attention he provides each patient. He understands that this is a sensitive time for you.

Dr. Marx has decades of experience providing careful, appropriate treatment to put you at ease. The office’s goal is to make you feel comfortable, so you can openly address your problems and let us help you fix it.

Conveniently located in the Glenwood Medical Mall, we are happy to be accepting new patients. Contact us today for an appointment.

102 Thomas Road, Suite 108, West Monroe, LA 71291 Phone: 318-329-8464 Fax: 877-301-5648 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Friday: 9 a.m.-noon Closed Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday

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Procede with Beauty We’ve asked local beauty experts to give us the scoop on the best cosmetic procedures for the upcoming year. These non-invasive treatments can change your look with absolutely no down-time. Perfect for achieving a new you in the new year.

1. VASER Shape Body Contouring available at Ageless Laser Center

The VASER Shape device is an alternative to current nonsurgical contouring devices that use laser power, because like the VASER surgical device, this technology uses ultrasound to affect the fat.

How Does VASER Shape Work?

Vaser Shape uses two ultrasound heads that are positioned next to each other and the ultrasound energy converges like a V below the surface of the skin. This means there is only half the amount of energy going through the skin as when the two beams combine in the subcutaneous tissue. After the fat has been disrupted, it dies and the body absorbs it and passes the fat out naturally.

Patients can enjoy immediate reduction after just one session and may return for more treatment sessions.

While some have lost as much as 2 inches in the first session, these results aren’t to be expected for everyone. Patients

can reasonably plan to see 3-4 inch total reduction over the course of 4-5 weeks with continued treatments.

VASER Shape is not for those who have a lot of loose skin or are very overweight. It’s much better suited for those who have a small area of fat to lose. Many areas can be treated such as the abdomen, arms, legs, back of legs and more. VASER Shape is not a replacement for liposuction or skin tightening procedures, but it is a viable option for patients who want to avoid surgery.

2. Glow LED Lipo Light available at Glow Body Sculpting

Glow LED Lipo Light is a safe, painless and completely non-invasive treatment for spot fat reduction and aesthetic body contouring.

Clients who have found it hard to reduce trouble spots, such as love handles, tummy bulge, saddlebags and more – have been able to significantly reduce those trouble areas in just a few treatments. Our sixteen large Glow LED Light

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paddles target adipose (fat) tissue externally through the skin for 15 minutes per treatment area.

Results are seen in both circumference measurement and degree of body contour in the area. Clients can optimize their results through multiple Glow LED Lipo Light Therapy treatments combined with cardio type activity and a healthier diet.

Although exercise and a healthy diet are recommended; with a sluggish diet and a sedentary lifestyle you can still see results! We cannot wait for you to schedule an appointment and GET IN THE GLOW! 318-224-8884 or info@glowbodysculpting.com.

3. The Photofractional™ Treatment available at Haik Humble Eye Center The Photofractional™ treatment is a complete skin rejuvenation solution designed to offer you remarkable results on a range of skin aging concerns such as age and sun spots, vascular lesions, uneven texture and skin tone.

The unique photofractional rejuvenation technology includes two solutions: IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and ResurFX™ nonablative skin resurfacing, so that both skin tone and texture can be treated at the same session.

IPL technology removes both unwanted pigmentation and blood vessels from the skin, while the ResurFX™ fractional laser stimulates the production of new collagen and elastic fibers in the deeper layers of the skin. Stimulating new collagen production is the key to a more radiant, youthful looking skin.

The Photofractional treatment works with your skin to stimulate deep collagen regeneration over a sequence of treatments. Already after the first session, you may begin to notice improvement in skin tone and pigmentation.

Typically, about 3 sessions are needed to have visible improvement. Optimal results are typically achieved after 3-5 sessions in 2-6 weeks intervals.

However, you may continue to see improvements for up to six months following the treatment.

4. Gold Lust Pre-Shampoo Intensive Treatment available at Rain the Salon and Spa

Bring damaged locks back to life. This rejuvenating preshampoo treatment balm melts into hair, deeply moisturizing and repairing while protecting against harsh aggressors such as washing, styling and pollution. Bio-Restorative Complex, including Caffeine, Biotin and Niacinamide, repairs damage by penetrating the root to fortify, deeply nourish and strengthen the cuticle from the inside out while also energizing the scalp and rejuvenating hair follicles. Softness, shine and strength are restored. Add this 20 minute miracle treatment onto any color, cut or blowout service to instantly transform your hair and say goodbye to the winter blues.

5. StarWalker® Ultra Performance Q-Switched Laser System available at Hopkins Dermatology

Combining four complementary wavelengths and 14 laser modalities, the StarWalker functions as a highly versatile, multipurpose system that performs a wide range of applications in aesthetics. StarWalker’s energy, four colors and proprietary FracTAT™ procedure also make StarWalker an industry leading tattoo removal laser system.

This device earned FDA clearance in September of 2017 for the treatment of pigmented and vascular lesions, acne, scars, tattoos and even permanent hair reduction. The advancements give unprecedented clinical versatility and high-power performance.

The treatment has been lauded for its ability to deliver uniform and precise treatment with predictable results. In trained and experienced hands, the StarWalker can generate a higher energy photoacoustic

effect on the treatment site. It is also more efficient, because it can address larger spot sizes in every session for more homogeneous treatment of even deeper seated skin pigments.

This new technology helps treat tattoos, pigmented lesions, vascular lesions, acne scars, active acne, unwanted hair, enlarged pores, melasma, wrinkles, solar lentigenes, haemangiomas, photodamaged skin, spider angiomas, seborrheic keratosis and other issues.

6. CoolSculpting available at Mickel Plastic Surgery

CoolSculpting is an FDA approved, non-invasive fat removal procedure, that is clinically proven by over 100 peer-reviewed studies to reduce bulges of unwanted fat without needles, without surgery and – most importantly – without downtime. Mickel Plastic Surgery is the first and the exclusive provider in this region of CoolSculpting.

They recently introduced a new series of CoolSculpting applicators that make treatments quicker, more comfortable and more effective than ever!

The new Coolfit, Coolcore and Coolcurve Advantage applicators allow more precise sculpting of the abdomen and hips, and also allow treatment of several areas that the old applicators couldn’t treat - such as the upper arm, the inner knee and the inner thigh. In addition, the new Coolsmooth applicator, while not as fast as the others, is a non-suction, surface applicator that can be applied to the outer thigh – enabling treatment of an area that before now could only be reduced with liposuction.

Most patients experience a 20 - 25% reduction in the thickness of the fat with the first treatment and a little less with each subsequent treatment.

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For His Temple Family Foods Fresh Ingredients. Real Food.

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OR DANA MILFORD, HEALTHY FOOD ISN’T JUST A trend or a new year’s resolution. It is a lifestyle and a passion.

And one that came reluctantly just a few years ago. “My sister was doing a 30 day detox and suggested I give it a try,” says Dana.

“I wasn’t all that interested, but after seeing how great she looked afterwards, I was all ears. At the end of 30 days, I was free of joint pain, I had decreased inflammation and just overall, felt better.

I started studying up on food – where it comes from, the effects on the body and so much more. There were so many things that I was experiencing that I chalked up to ‘old age’ and thought were ‘normal,’ and they weren’t!”

So later that year, Dana retired from corporate America and enjoyed her time off…for a couple of weeks. “I couldn’t NOT do something and I had this idea to cook. I wasn’t sure where it would lead, but I was sure that I needed to cook,” said Dana. And that is just what she did. She cooked weekly meals for 10 families, working on meals and asking for input and feedback. She then rented a kitchen on the weekend, and people could pick up meals that were healthy, gluten free and organic. After getting such a great response, Dana took another leap and opened for His temple.

Upon its inception, there was only a pick up option. Since then, Dana has expanded and opened a dining room and a market with a plethora of gluten free and dairy free options. And if you don’t see something you need, just ask! They are constantly growing and adding new products.

Dana focuses on local products, which helps grow the local food scene and offers fresh, real food to the community. She has built a relationship with local farmers, finding flavor, more nutrients, keeping money in the local community and decreasing the carbon footprint. And while some people may cringe when they think of “healthy” food, for His temple family foods offers “real” food – casseroles, chicken pot pie, meat loaf. “It is normal food… cleaned up,” explains Dana. “It isn’t just lettuce and tofu. I don’t even like tofu!”

When it comes to inspiration for her recipes, Dana sticks to what she knows. “I use family recipes, and clean those up,” she says. “I also research and look through cookbooks and online. The season also determines what I cook – squash in the summer, root vegetables in the winter.”

For 2018, Dana plans to continue to offer gluten free, diary free and vegan options to the community. She is looking forward to partnering with other community members on events. These include Nourish U, a women's weekend workshop with Shannon Dahlum and introducing some farm to table dinner events, where farmers can talk about their food and produce. And if you are looking to make a change to your overall health, start with lunch at for His temple family foods.

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Ageless Skin Laser Center

Staying Ahead of the Curve with the Latest Technology

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GELESS SKIN LASER CENTER strives to stay ahead of the curve in giving this area the latest technologhy in beauty treatments. The new Cryotherapy at Ageless is the latest update to a variety of procedures they offer such as: laser hair removal, vaser shape body coutouring, Botox, chemical peels, dermaplaning, spray tans, microdermabrasion and hydro facials.

So what is Cryotherapy? For years, doctors and sports trainers have used ice baths to decrease inflammation and pain. As your body temperature drops, blood is drawn to the core. This process acts as a natural filter to remove extra fluid and toxins. The body also produces Norepinephrine (a natural hormone that improves focus, attention and mood enhancements). Norepinephrine also tells the body to generate heat and energy to maintain temperature. This reaction helps increase calorie burn and has many benefits.

Some of the sports and recovery benefits

include a quick removal of lactic acid and toxin build up and also decreases inflammation and swelling. The Cryotherapy enhances energy and releases endorphins while improving muscle strength and joint function. In cases of athletic performance and weight training, these benefits can be applied for quicker recovery, decreased soreness and decreased injuries from training.

Cryotherapy has the ability to burn 500-800 calories per session! It boosts your metabolism while increasing your ability to burn more fat and calories. For your skin, it reduces fine lines, tightens skin, oxygenates the blood and flushes toxins. It improves psoriasis and acne and triggers collagen production.

This treatment has pain management and mental health benefits, as well. It promotes immediate onset of pain relief and decreases inflammation due to conditions, such as: rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, soft tissue injuries, pre/post surgical acute

pain and chronic pain decrease inflammation and swelling. Decreasing muscle spasms and soreness as well as joint swelling and stiffness are both benefits of using Cryotherapy. Also, it can increase immune cells and helps alleviate depression, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, migraines and stress.

Routine use can help reduce the use of pain medications, steroids and other medications that cause unwanted side effects.

It is half off your first appointment! Ageless Skin Laser Center is by appointment only Monday-Friday, so please call or message us on Facebook to schedule an appointment.

Ageless Skin Laser Center 2271 Arkansas Rd. in West Monroe, LA 318.410.1910 www.agelessskinlasercenter.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

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The Cinderella Project of Monroe

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

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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, self-confidence and the importance of giving back to others. The Cinderella Project of Monroe is collecting prom dresses throughout the month of January 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, Rodéo Boutique of Ruston, any of the three D&D Cleaners

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locations and any Cross Keys Bank branch in Monroe, West Monroe, Sterlington, Rayville, St. Joseph, Tallulah 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,” says Hubenthal.

The Cinderella Project has also grown, thanks to Anna Blake, Miss Louisiana Tech University. She has chosen The Cinderella Project as her platform, promoting the organization as she travels and makes

appearances as part of her reign. Anna has served as a volunteer for the organization for several years. “I have been inspired year after year, as I see the joy on a girl’s face as she finds ‘her dress’ for her senior prom,” said Anna. “The Cinderella Project has impacted the lives of so many young ladies who might not have had the opportunity to attend their prom.”

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.

Focusing on Your Mind and Body Abundant Strength Yoga

BY KELLY SMITH

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AM A 200 HOUR RTY CERTIFIED TEACHER IN RAYVILLE, LA. When I started yoga, I was looking for a low impact workout that would give my body a good workout. I found more than I ever expected. As a child I was diagnosed with a 20 and 30 degree curve in my back from scoliosis. Throughout my teenage years, I experienced every eating disorder you could imagine. I was determined to get stronger in my mind and my body, strengthen my core and just feel better all over, and that is when I turned to yoga!

My classes do not require that you already be flexible, strong or focused. They’re not for the perfectly shaped young athlete, and they are not based on any religion. These are for regular people who want to grow, get stronger, learn to breathe and to be their best selves. Yoga is the way I keep my body in shape, and it gives me a sense of pride for doing something good for myself.

The benefits only kept increasing: stress relief, feeling more at home in my body and developing my mental ability to focus on what I want in my life. I specialize in working with people who are interested in becoming stronger mentally and physically. If you’re wanting to feel a greater emotional balance, more of a sense of ease in your body, strengthen your body, find a balance in your life and

muscles that you didn’t know you have —I would love to invite you to one of my public classes or one of my one-on-one sessions.

One of the classes held at Abundant Strength Yoga is Vinyasa yoga. It links poses together, so that you move from one to another, seamlessly, using breath. Commonly referred to as “flow” yoga.

It syncs breath and movement and truly feels like a moving meditation. There are so many modifications and props available to make the class a true “all level” flow.

I am extremely proud of the community we have developed at Abundant Strength Yoga. I always say the hardest part is walking through the door.

Abundant Strength Yoga 1603 Louisa Street, Rayville 318-381-0342 You can find full class details and prices on our app!

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I-20 Escape Opens in Ruston

North Louisiana’s Newest Escape Room Now Open

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HEY SAY THAT PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT. AND TARA Howington and Angela Yarborough are hoping “they” are right. After scouring the southeastern United States and visiting several sites and finishing over 40 rooms, the two business partners, along with their spouses, are opening their own room in Ruston – I-20 Escape. This is part of the growing phenomenon of escape rooms, where individuals and groups can partake in a physical adventure game, where they can solve puzzles and riddles using clues, hints and strategy to complete the objective, and get out of the room in less than 60 minutes.

“We were on a girls’ getaway to Hot Springs and were looking for things to do,” said Tara Howington. “We found some information on an escape room and thought it would be fun. We were instantly hooked.” After escaping the Hot Springs room, the girls headed to Baton Rouge for another road trip and participated in a second escape room experience. It was after that experience, the two started discussing the possibility of opening I-20 Escape in northeast Louisiana. “Since then, we have been to Dallas, Florida, Gulf Shores, Tyler and many rooms throughout north and central Louisiana,” said Tara. “While we visited all of these, we learned what works, what doesn’t, what is fun and what we liked. We have taken all of those elements to create I-20 Escape.” With Tara’s love of puzzles like

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brainteasers and Soduko and Angela’s creativity, combined with both of their business experience and entrepreneurial spirit, they make the perfect pair for Ruston’s first escape room to become a success.

“We think everyone in Ruston and the surrounding areas will love the opportunity to participate in our escape room,” said Tara. “We know it will be a big hit with the students at LA Tech, but it isn’t just for college students. It is for everyone!”

The duo is starting with one room – Becoming Houdini – with three rooms to follow. They even have plans for a kids’ room, made just for ages 6 and up. But parties aren’t the only occasion to visit I-20 Escape. If you are looking for a unique date night, girls’ night or team building opportunity, I-20 Escape is the perfect fit. “It isn’t a haunted house, you aren’t trapped or locked in,” said Tara. “It is a completely immersive experience that allows you to use your brain and have fun with your friends, family or co-workers.”

I-20 Escape’s regular business hours are Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and on Sundays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. However, you can call ahead and book a private event during the week. Reservations can be made online at i20escape.com or by calling 318-224-7188. Visit them for their grand opening this month and see if you can escape – one hour, one exit!

Javi P’s Fresh Mex

New Restaurant Opening in the Heart of North Monroe

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VERYONE LIKES TO START THE NEW YEAR OFF FRESH, and Javi P’s is the perfect answer! Located at the corner of Tower Drive and Oliver Road in Monroe, Javi P’s is the brainchild of Francisco Javier Aviles and his uncle. The two have years of experience in the restaurant industry and own several El Jarrito locations in West Monroe, Farmerville and Ruston. Customers can expect the same great flavor and service they have come to know and love from El Jarrito, but with a twist. Instead of being seated at a table and ordering food from a waiter, patrons step up to the counter and have their food made right in front of them. “We have a concept like this in Ruston, and it has been very successful,” said Javi. “We have many customers come over from Monroe and tell us they enjoy it and want to have one in Monroe. This opportunity presented itself, and here we are!”

The space is filled with modern touches and with a little Mexican flair, like the traditional Mexican blanket fabric used on the back of the booths. Javi said it was a group effort with Holyfield Construction overseeing the buildout, led by Joe Holyfield and David Sorrell.

He also worked with Holly Boyd on design elements, lighting and furniture.

When customers first step in, they are greeted and can check out the different options on the menu board. First, you pick whether

you want a burrito, bowl, nachos, salad, quesadilla or tacos. They even have a variety of tortillas for the burritos including flour, wheat, cheddar jalapeño and spinach. Then you decide what you want to fill it with. Options include steak, chicken, carnitas, barbacoa, ground beef, chorizo, shrimp and veggies. That can all be topped off with Spanish and cilantro rice, pinto, black and refried beans, lettuce, sautéed onions and peppers, cheese, fresh roasted corn and more. You can add guacamole, cheese dip or salsa to go along with your meal and top it all of with a soda, margarita or one of the 15 beers on draft.

Javi even says there are plans for an extensive salsa bar, with eight to ten options of fresh sauces. If you have room, you can even grab an authentic Mexican dessert – flan, arroz con leche or cinnamon rice.

Javi P’s has tables, booths and bar seating, with plans to include some outdoor seating as well. With a capacity to seat around 80 people, TV’s to watch sports, a full bar and their delicious food, Javi P’s will definitely be what everyone is talking about in 2018! “We are looking forward to opening this month,” said Javi. “We are in a great location and have fresh, authentic Mexican food on the go. What more could you ask for?”

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The

Good

Doctor

Through his work as a physician with The Woman’s Clinic, volunteer efforts and contributions to the arts community, and as an ardent supporter of local youth education, he has directly or indirectly impacted the lives of thousands.

For these reasons, and many more too numerous to name, Dr. Terry Tugwell is BayouIcon for the month of January. Article by MICHAEL DEVAULT and Photography by BRAD ARENDER

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ome of Terry Tugwell’s earliest memories are of patient care. His father was a general practitioner in Bastrop, and growing up, Tugwell frequently found himself following his dad to work. Thus began Tugwell’s medical training.

It was the late 1960s, and in rural Bastrop, a medical doctor wore many, many hats

“As did most doctors of his generation, my father did everything,” Tugwell says.

“They practiced office medicine, admitted patients to the local hospital, performed surgeries, delivered babies. They also covered local emergency rooms. So he spent a large part of his time at the hospital.”

The elder Tugwell also made house calls to patients in and around Bastrop. Though he was young, watching his father’s dedication to his patients inspired him. When Tugwell graduated from Prairie View Academy in 1973, he enrolled at Louisiana Tech with plans to pursue a medical degree from LSUShreveport.

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the field. Where they “did everything,” the next generation of medical practitioners were becoming more specialized. Healthcare had begun to silo itself into ever-narrower specialties, and Tugwell would have to pick one of these specialties to pursue as his career.

His criteria were simple enough: choose a specialty where the work provided a variety of avenues to prevent “getting bored” as he puts it. As he made his way through his classes and then through his internship, Tugwell found himself increasingly drawn to obstetrics and gynecology.

“It allowed you to serve multiple facets of taking care of the patient,” Tugwell says.

“It’s a good mixture of surgery, delivering babies, with a handful of psychology and psychiatry thrown in.”

Also, unlike other specialties, obstetrics and gynecology checked off another important box on the list of criteria: patient relationships. Where many specialties were transient in nature, addressing a patient only so long as they had a particular issue, OB/Gyns engaged with patients over much longer periods of time – years, even their

whole lives. A person might see a cardiologist for heart trouble, but once that condition is sufficiently managed, the relationship ends.

With obstetrics and gynecology, women choose their doctors early and they typically remain a patient for decades.

“Obstetrics and gynecology allowed me to develop the kind of professional relationships that last many years,” Tugwell says. “A large portion of my practice over the years has been treating personal friends of mine.”

After eight years of medical school and residency, and with a specialty selected, Tugwell returned to Bastrop and established a practice there in 1985. For ten years, Tugwell served the Morehouse community as one of just a few OB/Gyns in the community. This meant he had a lot of work – and time for little else.

By 1995, still single and with little time to pursue outside interests, Tugwell knew the time for a change had come. He decided to close his practice and move to Monroe, where he joined The Woman’s Clinic. Joining the clinic gave Tugwell the collegial atmosphere

says. Tugwell used part of his time to get involved in the community, serving on the board of the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council and immersing himself in the live music scene. Monroe also offered another benefit. “It allowed time for dating – which I’d had very little of in the ten years I was in Bastrop.”

Very quickly, Tugwell found himself in the midst of a new, exciting circle of friends and a swirl of activities. Through his service on the Arts Council, Tugwell met dozens of local artists, musicians, actors and dancers. He’d already become close friends with local artists Glenn Kennedy and Edmund Williamson. And every weekend, it seemed he could catch a show by Johnny O’Neal, Kenny Bill Stinson or Doug Duffey.

“Through the hard work of people like Doyle Jeter at Enoch’s, we were able to enjoy all sorts of just fabulous music,” Tugwell says. “So my horizons were really starting to open up.”

For Tugwell, Monroe was the kind of place he could have a career, put

“Practicing in Monroe has been a pleasure because of the support and encouragement of the medical community – and the excellent facilities we have here.” where he could learn new skills and further develop his practice, while benefitting from the wisdom of senior partners such as Drs. Richard Vines. Having a tight-knit, professional family also afforded him the kind of free time that isn’t available to most solo practitioners.

“Coming to Monroe allowed me to have a social life and to spend time with many of my friends who already lived here,” he

down roots and raise a family, all without life becoming dull. Through his activities in the arts community, Tugwell tapped into an endless vein of fascinating, talented individuals, each of whom seemed to operate with the same goal.

“I’ve found there’s never a boring moment in Monroe, due to the fact that there are what I call magic people – individuals who’ve made living in Monroe an interesting

and fun time,” he explains. “I call them the Magic People, because they’re the ones who’ve made things happen, who make things happen in this community, the kinds of things that make quality of life better for people like me.”

Quickly, Tugwell developed a reputation for being a bon vivant and someone people could count on when it mattered. He credits this compassion to his mother, who had a relatively simple philosophy when it came to others.

“She would say, ‘Always try to look beyond what a person does and understand why they do what they do, because it’ll help you to be kind to their mistakes,’” he says.

Not only does this approach evoke a sense of compassion, it also helps avoid judgmental behavior. For a doctor, especially, that’s a critical faculty to have.

“You have to be open, to listen, and try to never be judgmental,” Tugwell says.

“Hopefully, you’re able to relieve a lot of their worries, concerns or fears with compassion and kindness.”

Put another way, that’s where listening becomes a big part of his practice – that handful of psychology and psychiatry that helped attract him to obstetrics and gynecology in the first place. When patients come to their doctor with health issues, often the unknowns of a situation are as distressing as the symptoms that brought them in.

They’re afraid of what’s going on in their bodies, and they don’t know to whom they can turn.

“Very frequently, a person just needs to have some fear of theirs acknowledged, addressed and relieved,” Tugwell says.

“Many times, you do just as much good with your words than you do with your hands or your surgical skills.”

Whether it’s sitting around with friends, encouraging a local artist or taking care of a patient, the influence Tugwell’s mother has had is clear. Dr. Tugwell is a listener. Perhaps this is because he’s most closely aligned to his nature when he’s talking to patients.

“I’ve always found it extremely rewarding to sit down and talk with someone who is frightened about some aspect of their life or their relationships and to be able to help quell those fears,” he says. “To me, that’s every bit as rewarding as any of those surgical skills one has.”

While talking with his patients has remained constant, little else in the practice of medicine has. Like his father’s generation before, this generation of doctors is overseeing radical shifts in how medicine is delivered – and in the industry that delivers it. Medical imaging has improved outcomes, while lessinvasive surgical techniques mean better patient outcomes.

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ability to operate on patients with far less post-operative pain, by performing most of our procedures laparoscopically, as opposed to having to surgically open the patient’s abdomen,” he says. During a laparoscopic surgery, doctors make a series of small incisions through which they insert various tools, guided by a small camera. Smaller incisions mean less pain, fewer infections and a reduced chance of complications. “This was a quantum leap in the field of gynecology, as well as other surgical specialties. Now, robotic surgery is moving even further in that direction for some specialties.”

That Monroe boasts numerous surgical facilities equipped to deliver the latest in laparoscopic and robotic surgeries highlights one of the biggest factors that drove Tugwell to remain in Monroe.

Another of those factors is the community of doctors that exists here to support the patient community.

“Practicing in Monroe has been a pleasure because of the support and encouragement of the medical community – and the excellent facilities we have here,” he says. “I don’t know how many people realize how lucky we are, in a small city like Monroe, to have the quality of physicians we do. At any given time, I’m able to get assistance from colleagues in other specialties – general surgery or urology, for example – when I need it. There’s just a great, collegial atmosphere among the vast majority of physicians here.”

The biggest factor driving Tugwell’s desire to remain in Monroe?

Family. Tugwell is one of six children, and he has a large, extended family that remains extremely close, gathering for holidays, birthdays and special events dozens of times a year.

“I didn’t want to be too far from my immediate family,” he says.

“We’re particularly close, and we enjoy each other’s company. I didn’t want to miss out on anything, because I lived somewhere far away.”

He also didn’t want his kids to miss out on that closeness, either.

The father of three children with his former wife, Sarah Brasher Tugwell, he wanted to provide for his children the same environment that his family had given him.

“I was raised in an environment that was confident, secure and loving,” Tugwell says. “That’s what Sarah and I have tried to provide for our kids, that same sense of security and love that I had growing up.”

Kids came later in life for Tugwell than they did for many of his colleagues. That’s had a benefit that he’s come to appreciate more and more each day.

“I’ve realized the importance of time spent with my kids,” he says.

“The pleasure of being with them and their friends keeps me young at heart – and entertained! I don’t have much time to be concerned or depressed about the foils of aging, because I’m surrounded by so much youthful energy.”

In between seeing patients, surgeries, concerts and visits with friends, Tugwell attends virtually every football game, every soccer game, every dance recital. Along the way, he’s begun to notice a new trend crop up, too.

Those life-long patients are everywhere. They’ve become friends of his, and babies he’s delivered are now friends with his kids. And with more than thirty years of practice under his belt, he’s starting to see another new trend, too.

“Several years ago, I started delivering babies of babies I’d delivered in the past,” he says. Though he very much enjoyed delivery, as the demands of family increasingly encroached on time spent with patients and delivering babies, Tugwell made the decision to discontinue obstetrics, though he continues to practice gynecology at The Woman’s Clinic.

And, thanks in part to all of that youthful energy, chances are he’ll still be there in another ten years or so, for yet another generation of patients. Until then, he’ll be at Enoch’s, or at the ballet, or wandering an Art Crawl, or watching a soccer game or tending to the needs of a patient. Always surrounded by friends and family, wherever he is, he’s sure to be enjoying life the life of a good doctor.

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SHAPE UP FOR THE NEW YEAR If your New Year’s resolution is to get fit, local fitness guru, Bonnie Farmer Hay, will show you the best moves that concentrate on the whole body while quickly burning calories. Begin the new year with these exercises to jump start the new you. photography by Martin G Meyers model: Bonnie Farmer Hay, BayouBuzz Winner - Best Personal Trainer Clothing from If The Crown Fits PL ANK FROGGER SHOULDER PRESS: STEP 1 Start out in the plank position with your hands shoulder width apart gripping weights for support. Start with light weight until you are comfortable with the movement.

THIS EXERCISE IS A TOTAL BODY WORKOUT

PL ANK FROGGER SHOULDER PRESS: STEP 2 From your plank position, jump into a frogger postion, which is similar to a squat but feet are slightly wider apart.

Keep your grip on weights.

PL ANK FROGGER SHOULDER PRESS: STEP 3 Remaining in your frogger position, proceed to bring your weights up into a shoulder press position.

PL ANK FROGGER SHOULDER PRESS: STEP 4 * Careful not to move too quickly while performing this exercise.

Get optimal muscle targeting by keeping a steady pace.

Push weights up to finish your shoulder press. After your shoulder press bring weights down and jump back into a plank postion. Repeat movement for 5 10 reps. Gradually work up.

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PICK THE APPROPRIATE WEIGHT FOR YOU. YOU SHOULD CHOOSE WHAT ALLOWS YOU TO COMPLETE REPS ON EACH SIDE.

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BASKETBALL LUN GE: STEP 4 After switching weight immediately press up the weight with both hands, raising your knee simultaneously.

Repeat for 5-10 reps on each side.

BASKETBALL LUNGE: STEP 3 While in lunging postion switch weight under your leg to your other hand and bring up towards your chest.

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BASKETBALL LUNGE: STEP 1 This exercise begins from a standing position with a weight in one hand. It does not matter which hand you choose first as it will be performed on each side.

BASKETBALL LUNGE: STEP 2 Lunge forward onto opposite knee of the hand holding the weight. Be sure your knee doesn’t extend over your toe.

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TRICEP CURL TO CRUNCH SHOULDER PRESS: STEP 1 Begin with left foot on top of right foot on the floor. Place your weight to the side of your head in the opposite hand of your risen foot with your other hand against the floor.

TRICEP CURL TO CRUNCH SHOULDER PRESS: STEP 2 Perform tricep curl by bringing weight up into the air. Stay on the floor during this movement with opposite hand still on the ground and foot atop the other.

THIS MOVE WORKS YOUR CORE, SHOULDERS & TRICEPS. USE THIS TO GET THE CORE YOU’VE DREAMED OF.

TRICEP CURL TO CRUNCH SHOULDER PRESS: STEP 3 Come into cruch position by raising up off of the floor and lifting weight above your head. Return to the floor and repeat on your other side. Try to perform 15-20 reps before switching to your other side.

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SIDE LUNGE WITH KNEE R AISE PRESS: STEP 1 Begin in a standing postition with your weight in one hand. Grab a weight that properly suits you for a 5-10 rep exercise.

THIS EXERCISE IS GREAT FOR TONING THOSE GLUTES

2 SIDE LUNGE WITH KNEE R AISE PRESS: STEP 2 From your standing position go into a side lunge, bringing the weight across your body to your opposite foot.

SIDE LUNGE WITH KNEE R AISE PRESS: STEP 4 Push your weight above your head into a shoulder press while simultaneously lifting your opposite knee into a raise.

Repeat on other side.

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SIDE LUNGE WITH KNEE R AISE PRESS: STEP 3 Bring your weight back up into a row position from the floor. Keep weight up as you move into the next movement.

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ART OF HYGGE

As you navigate through your home, how do you feel? Have you fashioned a cocoon of comfort or a cave of chaos?

If the latter, consider hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”), the Danish cultural tradition of keeping a cozy home. While sometimes defined as a feeling or mood rather than a physical state, what you feed your eye is what you feed your mind, so begin evaluating your associations with a cozy, charming or special place in order to begin the hygge journey. You don’t have to turn your entire home into a hygge-like maelstrom. All that’s needed is a nook that can be transformed into a good-vibes-only soulful nest.

Fill your nook with visuals that make you feel like cuddling into the space. Add texture by adding a variety of fluffy throw pillows, chunky blankets, and woolly rugs or floor cushions. Mood-lift the space with personal trinkets or cherished memories in the form of family photos, antiques or books.

What you do in your hygge nook ‘stays in your nook!’ But it’s important that you treat this space as a sanctuary, a place to refocus the mind. Switch off your electronics and open a book, nurture a new hobby, be crafty, invite loved ones and play cards or board games. Let the space be about the activities you thought you had no time for, and be sure to top off your hygge experiences by wearing the most comfortable, escapefrom-reality lounge wear that you can.

rediscover relaxation The wear and tear of our hyperactive lives knocks an important pillar of our wellbeing to the bottom of our overstacked to-do list. Re-learn how to re-lax and powerhouse in 2018 through these positive lifestyle changes.

Article by Vanelis Rivera

Essentially Aromatic We can’t always keep a tidy home, but we sure can keep it smelling fresh. And for that it seems that candles are a girl’s best friend. However, Keda Sims, sole proprietor of Natural Oil Momma, registered nurse and doula warns that “most candles are full of toxins” that contain carcinogenic ingredients. Sims, who has used essential oils for 25 years, encourages switching to oils because aside from fragrancing your home, they also cleanse and purify the air.

Essential oils are simply aromatic compounds that are extracted from a variety of plants, flowers, leaves and stems. When diffused in an aromatherapy oil diffuser, these oils affect the brain center, with the potential to mood shift. Scents best used before bed or during high stress moments are lavender, sage and roaming chamomile. Hard-core snoozers or constantly lethargic persons would benefit from citrusy scents, such as wild orange, lemon or peppermint. Venture into more obscure scents like vetiver, a woody smell that has been recommended for hyper children. Or browse

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the many oil fusions that focus on your relaxation goals, such as stress management, anxiety diffusing and/or balancing blends.

These oils can also be used topically or as supplements.

But not all oils are “created equal,” Sims warns. Some could cause sickness, if you are unfamiliar with the product, so it’s imperative that first time users choose oils transparent about their production process. Sims highly recommends the brand dōTERRA, because the company stringently tests their oils from start to finish, keeping the product pure and potent. The company is also ethically responsible. They focus on sustainability and longevity of resources from the countries where they export. Venture using oils as supplements, but Sims encourages only purchasing bottles that have supplement facts available. Essential oils are not FDA approved, so bottles claiming 100% purity cannot be trusted. Seek recommended brands or attend an essential oil workshop. Sims provides classes every Monday at 6:30 PM at the Ageless Skin Laser Center.

tasty transitions The all too familiar phrase ‘you are what you eat’ may make you think of how you can shed the winter pounds, but food has a far more significant effect on the body than just carbs and fat.

“People think they are having anxiety, but they are having vitamin deficiency,” informed Andi Holyfield, registered dietitian and owner of Eat to Lose, Inc. For instance, lack of B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and cobalamin) can cause shortness of breath, which is why Holyfield highly recommends investing in multi-vitamins.

Most of us find ourselves on the go, prioritizing external tasks instead of the internal ones. Holyfield believes in a “grab and go” program that focuses on “dry finger foods,” such as almonds, walnuts and/or Brazil nuts, which are known high-energy inducers. She also recommends starting a meal preparation practice she calls a “freezer system,” where meals are prepared beforehand then stored.

Rushing can also result in skipping meals, the most common skipped meal being breakfast. But the most important meal of the day should be prioritized as much as brushing your teeth. Holyfield recommends eating breakfast at least an hour after waking up. Many of us who opt out of morning grub tend to overeat either by lunch or dinner. Skipping meals is also a recipe for disaster, contributing to low metabolism.

Overeating can become a rough pattern to unwind, but Holyfield has some nifty Jedi tricks to keep it at bay. First, using small black plates tends to make food “pop,” creating the illusion that you are eating more.

Over-snacking during work hours or late night snacking can be a habit based more on “hand to mouth satisfaction” than hunger. Holyfield has made patients “puff” on cinnamon sticks when they get cravings. This can also be successful with smokers.

High-stress living can be further aggravated by your diet. Avoid foods that cause acid reflux, such as greasy, spicy and lardy foods, like butter and bacon. Adversely, foods rich in magnesium, B vitamins, zinc and antioxidants can battle stress. But the number one stress relieving, metabolism boosting and detoxifying edible to add to your diet is not one that can be ingested from a plate. It’s our ‘best friend forever’ H2O. Opting out of the suggested 65-85 oz. of pure water a day leads to dehydration, which lowers metabolism by 3%, adding 13 lb of fat to your body in a year.

Healing yourself with food and drink is in reach, and it can begin with a BPA-free water bottle.

“Anything is better than nothing. Just move. Put yourself in opportunities where you can feel accomplished.”

Engaging in vigorous exercise can be the maximum battlefield to sweating away your worries!

Jeananne Morris McGregor, group exercise director and personal trainer at the Monroe Athletic Club asserts that “not finding the time” is not an acceptable excuse to opt from an exercise practice. She advises to ascribe to the mantra, “I’m making this time for myself today.” For additional support, have a workout partner or trainer. Make a friend an accountability buddy, even if they don’t workout with you. Ease into the workout life by starting a walking routine. “Anything is better than nothing. Just move. Put yourself in opportunities where you can feel accomplished,” encourages McGregor.

Any time of day can be a workout slot. A simple routine can be 10-15 minute workouts 3 days a week. If you’re still not ready for the gym-rat life, McGregor promotes the workout app, Aaptiv, which makes elevated workout experiences accessible anytime and anywhere. The app delivers by synchronizing the guidance of a trainer to an energetic playlist. Workouts range from 5k training to yoga flows that can last 10-15 minutes.

Intention can make or break your workouts and fitness journey. McGregor has noticed that members who get into fitness with negative perceptions of their body tend to have a tougher time engaging in their routines, so lead with love!

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eedles digging into your skin does not sound very relaxing, but acupuncture promotes blood flow needed for healing and maintaining health, as well as releasing pressure on joint structures and nerves.

Dr. David Thomason has been practicing psychology since 1985, but takes a holistic approach in helping his patients. You don’t have to ‘dive off the deep end’ and get your body covered in needles. Dr. Thomason suggests starting with an AcuDetox treatment that involves placing five small sterilized, disposable, stainless steel needles in specific sites in each ear.

Stimulating these points can help reduce stress and anxiety, lessen depression and insomnia, and alleviate substance cravings, such as food, alcohol, drugs or pharmaceuticals.

Because health insurance does not cover acupuncture in the area, an hour session can cost about $95. For those tight on cash, Dr. Thomason proposes the alternative practice of acupressure, a self-massage method that relaxes muscles via specific points in the body. Stimulate points by using firm pressure on a tender area, find your threshold without making the area more sore, and hold for about 30 seconds to a minute. Once you release, you should note a relaxation response.

what dreams may come

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Holistic Alternative Your sleep doesn’t necessarily begin when you get in bed. Consider what you do an hour before getting to bed. If you’re not keeping your pre-hour of sleep zen, then you may be infiltrating the quality of your sleep.

Andi Holyfield suggests getting rid of infrared lights, limiting night calls to 8 PM, and not drinking too much water before bed. Don’t go to sleep anxious! Engage in positive affirmations before bed. Also, if you are taking medications, pay attention to potential side effects that may affect your sleep patterns.

Melatonin supplements and ‘sleepy time’ teas are better alternatives to ‘knock you out’ meds that leave you groggy and drug induced in the morning.

The ultimate relaxation is sleep, so invest in rest.

“Poses in yoga are opportunities to deepen breathing and self-awareness, not to stand on your head.”

Don’t let images of ‘pretzled,’ tight wearing, modelesque yogis make you think that yoga is not for you. Yoga begins and ends with the breath. Poses in yoga are opportunities to deepen breathing and self-awareness, not to put your leg behind your head or stand on your head. Sure, there are researched anatomical and physiological benefits to a consistent and safely-conducted yoga practice, but complex postures is not the goal of yoga.

Classes that are titled “vinyasa,” “power,” or “hot yoga” may still focus on breath and movement, but if you seek a calming and soothing practice, classes designated “yin” or “restorative” will be your jam. These classes are suitable for all levels and instructors focus on the breath, gentle movements and calming postures. If you’re not ready to roll out your yoga mat in a group setting, online yoga classes are quite popular and feature established and certified teachers, such as YogaGlo and oneOeight.

Liberating the breath can ease your mind, body, and spirit and yoga is the practice that yolks these three aspects of ourselves.

just breathe

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Training for a Better Life

Personal Trainer Jared Desadier Can Help with Your Personal Fitness Journey

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ASSION, PURPOSE, CARING AND coaching – these are the qualities that make a big impact when searching for a personal trainer. Finding a personal trainer who makes you feel comfortable enough to expose your biggest flaws can be challenging.

Jared Desadier, a personal trainer with over 15 years of experience, possesses all of the qualities of an excellent fitness coach.

“As a small child, I was always active but heavy” says Desadier. “Poor eating habits led me to struggle through adolescence with self-confidence and weight. At my heaviest, I was forced to walk up 16 flights of stairs three times a day to get to my dorm room. It didn’t take long for me to know I needed to make a lifestyle change. In the two years that followed, I lost 100 pounds. This physical transformation and personal journey led me to change my major to Kinesiology and Exercise Science and ultimately guided me to a career in fitness coaching.”

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Concepts of functional exercise, knowledge of human anatomy, basic nutrition and exercise science are all important aspects of a personal trainer’s repertoire. But, perhaps one of the most important qualities for a trainer to possess is the ability to motivate others to improve their overall health and fitness.

Personal training is a job that starts with heart, desire and a love for fitness but is utilized in a way that helps others be more engaging in their own life and reaching their personal goals.

Chris Strickler is a long-term client of Desadier’s says, “Jared Desadier has been my personal trainer for 15 years. The results I have achieved are largely due to his combination of diverse training methods, individualized exercise programs and encouragement. He makes each workout challenging and knows when and how hard to push me. If you are interested in achieving a new healthier lifestyle, I highly recommend Jared to help you

reach your goals.”

Desadier loves being able to help people on their journey to physical fitness. “I understand limitations of the body and mind, and the most rewarding thing to me is being a witness to the transformation that takes place when overcoming those limitations. Through my years of training, I have been able to work with all types of clients, different age groups and fitness levels. I love nothing more than seeing the light go off in someone who has achieved their goals, and the many life-long friendships I’ve formed because of what I have been able to help my clients achieve.”

Jared Desadier is a personal trainer at the Monroe Athletic Club in Monroe, LA. He is a co-founder of Bayou Bootcamp. You can find him on Facebook @bayoubootcampnela or by calling 318.460.0264. If you are ready to make a lifestyle change with a personal trainer who is compassionate, knowledgeable, positive and fun, schedule your consultation today.

Material Things Sip and Shop

On December 7, Material Things hosted their bimonthly sip and shop with a Holiday Open House. Every other month, owner Joyce Sims showcases a featured artist and the artist for December was Kathy Dumisnil.

Guests enjoyed the refreshment theme, created by none other than the fabulous Cathi French – Parmesan, potato chips and prosecco. Harp Strings’ one-of-a-kind jewelry was also on display and available for purchase.

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On the BayouScene 1 Joyce Sims and Cathi French 2 Dixie Bishop and Karen Cooper 3 Pat Stewart and Mary Riser 4 Peggy Gonzales and Lauren Vincent 5 Kathy Dumisnil and Joyce Sims 6 Lance and Tabatha Merkley 7 Therese Nagem and Leigh Liles

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Dueling Pianos

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Downtown Monroe gathered at the Coca Cola Building December 7th for the DoMo Piano Bar. Presented by the Downtown Monroe Alliance, the event benefits the Downtown River Jam, a free concert series that occurs throughout the year. Guests enjoyed a killer show by Queen Anne’s Revenge, who played just about every request that came their way, from Garth Brooks to Nine Inch Nails. The crowd was very interactive, dancing and singing along to all their favorite hits. Choice Brands was on hand to keep the libations flowing with a sampling of local and craft beers, and Cotton was serving up Southern specialties all evening.

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On the BayouScene 1 Kayla and Kaleb Deshotel 2 Vanessa Dartlon and Paul Holzem 3D ennis and Crystal Clack 4 Jeremy and Nicole Lindsey 5 Brandon Sanders and Jessica Crain 6 Debi Jackson and Krystal Smith 7H ollyn Breen, Anna Lee, Amanda Brown, Jessica Wisenor and Mallory Johnson 8M ichelle Pearce, Kurt McEnery and Delia Simpson 9 Candace Bloomer and Sherry Hochenedel 10 Misty Jennings, Jana Chowns and Lorene Heard 11 Melinda Robinson, Kendyl Stubleski and Melissa Touchet 12 D illon Powell, Matt McHenry, Doug and Jodi Harvey, Kevin and Holley Cuppia and Brittani Powell 13 P aula and Darryl Beasley, Tassa and Brian Avara 14 D elia Simpson, Caroline Smalling, Chris McBroom, Dustin Underwood, Melissa Touchet and Melinda Robinson 15 A nthony Perkins, Michael Brown, Kevin Caston, Denise Duplechin and Tara Brown 16 Chase and Hollyn Breen

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Holiday Open Houses

Throughout November and December, several local retailers celebrated the holiday season with open houses. Guests were invited to stop by and view holiday merchandise, enjoy refreshments and get their holiday shopping done. Woodstock Furniture Revival showcased their Christmas décor, candles and ornaments, not to mention their oh-so-cute Mr. P’s Tee’s. Across the street, Palette House had unique art and home décor, along with BeautyCounter products from Sarah Bishop. Around the corner, the crew at Haven Interiors pulled out all the stops for their holiday open house with snacks to go along with their home décor, coffee table books, stocking stuffers and more. Next door, Lori Bernard continued the legacy of Judy C. Martin with her open house. Down the street, Louisiana Purchases and The Muffin Tin hosted their open houses, where shoppers enjoyed refreshments while browsing and shopping.

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On the BayouScene 1 Laura Taylor Hodge, Emily Lane and Kennedy Cupples 2 Whitlie Delukie and Lauren Brown 3C helsie, Meritt, Patrick, Penny Summerville, Courtney Phillips, Lola Webster and Aniston Summerville 4 T op Row: Madelynn Smith, Sandy McMillan, Madeline Enlow and Amanda Ditta; Bottom Row: Jennalee Byram and Taylor Paul 5M argaret Moses and Sarah Bishop 6C helsie Summerville, Penny Summerville and Shelia Nettles 7 Lori Martin Bernard and Steve Walker 8M eredith Branch, Marilyn Hobson, Kassidy Wallace, Ashley Keever and Faye Cerillo

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Healthy Eating photos by Martin G Meyers

Garden Chicken

from for His temple family foods INGREDIENTS • 1 Tbsp coconut oil • 1 Tbsp butter • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken, cut in 1” cubes • 2 T Cajun seasoning • ½ medium onion, chopped fine • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 8 oz zucchini, cut in ½” slices • 1 c kale, torn in bite size pieces • 5 oz mushrooms • 15 oz diced tomatoes • 8 oz pasta • ½ tsp pink himalayan salt • ¼ tsp black pepper • ½ tsp Italian Seasoning

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DIRECTIONS Toss chicken in Cajun seasoning, set to the side. Melt oil and butter in Dutch oven. Add onion and garlic cooking until soft. Add chicken and cook until almost done. Add veggies, mixing lightly. Add salt, pepper and Italian Seasoning.

Simmer about 10 mins. Cook pasta to package directions. Toss pasta with chicken and veggies.

Sweet Asian Cabbage Slaw

from The Good Earth Juice and Salad Bar INGREDIENTS • 1 medium head green cabbage coarsely shredded • 1 medium head purple cabbage coarsely shredded • 1 cup shredded carrot INGREDIENTS (DRESSING) • ¼ cup agave • ¼ cup safflower or pecan oil • 2 Tbsp toasted sesame oil • 3 cloves crushed garlic • 3 Tbsp grated fresh ginger • 3 Tbsp rice vinegar • Salt and black pepper to taste DIRECTIONS Whisk and pour over veggies to mix. Yields 12 generous servings

Pairs perfectly with

a Shrimp po-boy, featuring shrimp, imported extra virgin olive oil, lettuce, tomato, pickles and sliced red onion, served on French Parisian bread.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup modified from Newk’s Eatery’s secret recipe INGREDIENTS • 1 cooking onion • 1 carrot • 2 celery ribs • 4 garlic cloves • 4 Tbsp butter • 2 lbs ripe tomatoes • 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes • 1 (32 oz) chicken broth • 1 cup heavy whipping cream • 1/4 cup fresh basil • 1/4 tsp dried basil • 1 tsp salt, additional to taste • 1/4 tsp pepper, additional to taste DIRECTIONS Slice onion, carrot, celery, and quarter garlic; add to Dutch oven with butter. Cook on medium/ high heat 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring frequently. Chop fresh tomatoes, add to Dutch oven. Add canned tomatoes to Dutch oven. Add salt and pepper. Continue cooking 5 minutes, stirring frequently. In two batches transfer tomato mixture to blender.

Purée mixture. Return blended tomato mixture to pot. Add chicken broth, heavy whipping cream, fresh and dried basil. Add additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired. Simmer on low heat another 5 minutes. Serve immediately.

Garnish with goat cheese, sliced basil and croutons.

Makes: 6-8 servings

Monroe Garden Study League Tulips & Toddies Fundraiser

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IKE ANCIENT CULTURES CELEBRATED THE PLANTING seasons with festivals, The Monroe Garden Study League, member of the Garden Club of America, welcomes you to join them for Tulips & Toddies, a fundraiser celebrating the tulip bulb planting season on Thursday, January 18th from 7-9 p.m. at 2110 Island Drive, home of Sue and Walter Sartor. Proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to capitalize MGSL’s community projects for the next three years.

Past projects the MGSL has contributed to or spearheaded include the planting of a stand of cypress trees in Anna Gray Noe Park, landscaping at the historic Isaiah Garrett Building on the river and brick planters at the end of Art Alley in Downtown Monroe, the Outdoor Learning Center and Rain Garden at Lexington Elementary, the signage at the Forsythe entrance to Forsythe Park and the purchasing of recycle bins for area ballparks as well as for Neville High School. Upcoming projects include seeding Highway 165 corridor with native wildflowers, and a Children’s Memorial Garden at Forsythe Park, and more.

Tulips & Toddies chairpersons Sue Sartor and Cynthia Ryan and their team have created a festive atmosphere as guests will be serenaded as they arrive by a saxophone player on the balcony of

the historic Island Drive home. Enjoy the fun mixology signature cocktail, the French Tulip; canapés and light bites; craft beer from Flying Tiger; selected wines and bubbles and the soothing sounds of live jazz throughout the evening.

Tulips & Toddies is a party for anyone who loves gardening, flower arranging or would love to try their hand at these pursuits but hasn’t found the time. Tulips in shades of pink, red, ivory and yellow will be available for sale at the Tulips & Toddies Garden Market and are ready to put in pots or in the ground for instant gratification. Tulip varieties chosen are the same as the tried and true tulips you enjoy seeing at the Biedenharn’s ELsong Gardens year after year!

Come celebrate the coming of our Louisiana Spring at Tulips & Toddies and help MGSL add beauty to our community.

Tickets are $50 per person and available through http://mgslmonroe.storenvy.com or by emailing Sue Sartor at suesartor@comcast.net.

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Holiday Tasting On Thursday, November 30, the atrium of Washington Plaza was filled with vendors serving up more than 40 of their favorite items. The Second Annual Holiday Tasting, hosted by Washington Wine and Spirits, was the perfect way to kick off the Holiday season!

Wine aficionados and vino newbies all gathered to sample some of this year’s best selections.

Scrumptious meatballs, steak bites and other appetizers were served compliments of Doe’s Eat Place.

Washington Wine & Spirits is located at 300 Washington Street, Suite 110 in Monroe. Follow them on Facebook for information on their next tasting.

On the BayouScene 1 Clint Durham, Sean Hammons and David Lewis 2M ya Romero, Lorealle Shell and Iantha Thomas 3M elanie, Reginald and Shaeeika Jackson 4O livia Pruett, Kimberly Janes and Tonya Hamilton 5 Patrick Horstkamp and Ray Allen 6 Amanda Wood and Bridget Lyon 7 Mandy and Neil Shipp 8 S hane Brooks and Jessica Hamlin 9 Stephanie and Paul Gullette 10 Shanda and Brian Crews 11 Wendy Holden and Katie Hodge 12 Giovanni Prisino and Vicky Thomas 13 Martha Canizaro and Amy Crawford 14 J une Daniel, Jeremy Williams and Stephanie Jefferson 15 Lila Strode and Lesli Rambin 16 Heather and Mark Smith 17 Elizabeth Chipmon and Crystal Poe

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Holiday Arts Tour

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NCLAC’s 20th annual Holiday Arts Tour was held December 1-2, 2017. This annual event gives artists the opportunity to exhibit and sell their artwork by partnering with downtown businesses or by opening their studios to the public. The Tour promotes artistic discussion, exposure and sales through live demonstrations, performances and exhibitions.

For the public, Holiday Arts Tour is a wonderful time to get an early start on your holiday shopping! Additional exciting elements of the weekend included Sprout Hour for children and an Art Battle at Railroad Park on Saturday morning, performing artists on Friday and Saturday evening, and demonstrations by artists on Saturday.

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On the BayouScene 1 Anne Marie and Austin Jackson 2A laina Guidry and Camille Cole 3D ennis and Sandra Woods 4 Jeanette Hinckley, Rachel Pittman and Luke Hebert 5B rody Martin, Emily Gatlin, Ragen and Jaleigh Martin and Hadley Gatlin 6 Jana Giles and Rod Werner 7 Dakota Dupont and Shannon Inman 8A utumn Moon, Kate Walker, Catherine Hunt, Elisabeth Hunt, Chesney Nguyen and Mary Wynne 9 Tim Roach and Stephanie Davis 10 Ashley and Esther Allen 11 Linda Graham, Linda Dwyer and Bill Graham 12 Kelly Hogan and Kate Posey 13 Nnenna and Imena Ighade 14 A bbey Bamburg and Holly Odom 15 Penny, Judith, Kyle and Alice Roberts 16 Donna Dancy, Kade and Kinley Cripps 17 Anna Parker, Michele McGehee and Trinity Burns 18 Kim Cummings, Stephanie Smith and Tammy Warner 19 Jade Plunkett, Saylor Hamby and Paisley Hamby

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Wellspring Open House

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You know the countdown to Christmas has begun when holiday decorations start showing up everywhere. To celebrate this most joyous season, The Wellspring invited friends and neighbors to join them at their annual Holiday Open House that was held on Thursday, December 7 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The event took place at their administration building located at 1515 Jackson Street in Monroe.

Guests enjoyed delicious food by Thurman’s Food Factory, and met The Wellspring staff.

Tours were given of their historic administration building, which was beautifully decorated for the holiday season. The Wellspring would like to thank the community for their continued support and everyone who came out to the Holiday Open House.

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On the BayouScene 1 Teri O’Neal and Darla McKee 2 Jacquiela Dorsey and Kristie Hodges 3 Barbara Biersmith and Bob Collier 4C indy Roach, Valerie Bowman and Cindy Leath 5 Rachel Niblet, Meghan Risinger and Robyn Johnson 6 Kattina Trosclair and Meredith Cheek 7 Caroline Cascio and Cathi Cox-Boniol 8A shley Kirk, Janet Durden and Judy Bell 9 Jennifer Brady, Karen Ulsh, Sydney Canfield and Teresa Shumate 10 V alerie Winslow and Sharon Jones 11 Melanie Aycock and Marsha Linam 12 Jerry Philley and Don Philley 13 Susan Gardner and Cassie Crew 14 Milton Moore and Kathi Savage

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Big Whit Wish List Event On Thursday December 7th, the Big Whit Foundation held its fourth annual Wish List Event.

The non-profit foundation invited ten families from Ouachita and Lincoln parishes to Chuck E Cheese for pizza and games. Andrew Whitworth, founder of the foundation, surprised the families via video and told them they would be heading over to Toys R Us to go on a shopping spree! Local organizations recommended families who needed some encouragement during the holiday season. Â In addition, athletes from both Louisiana Tech and ULM were on hand to shop with the kids for an incredible experience.

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On the BayouScene 1 Ricky Guillot and Lisa Miller 2 Dr. Gary and Mandy Stokley 3 Brian Barefoot and CJ 4 Calvin and Casey 5 Trevin and Bailey Smith 6 Brady McGehee and Spencer Hemphill 7R icky Guillot, Rick Guillot, Julie Ruddick and Kenny Guillot 8 L eazia, Latazia and Ladazia Zeigler 9 Michael Phillips and Chase Beal 10 Laterrious Zeigler and Iman Hudson 11 Kimara Zeigler and Brice Chaney 12 Ladazia Zeigler and Donice Hudson 13 T reasure and Payton Simpson 14 Samuel Miller and Ben Moye 15 Scarlett Eaton and Olivia Landberg 16 W ill Daniels, Brielle and Braedon Barrett 17 Jake Holland, Cameron Tingle and Brandon McDonald 18 Matt and Stiles Nelson

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McCallum Reception On November 16, 2017 supporters from parishes around North Louisiana attended the campaign kickoff reception for Judge Jay McCallum candidate for Second Circuit Court of Appeal. The event was held at Squire Creek Country Club in Ruston, and supporters noshed on delicious food provided by Squire Creek.

District Attorney John Belton offered the opening prayer. Pastor Kurt Auger introduced Judge McCallum and recognized mayors, state representatives, clerks of court, judges, sheriffs and district attorneys in attendance.

Judge McCallum has earned strong support from law enforcement including all of the District Attorneys in the parishes that comprise this division of the Second Circuit Court of Appeal.

Judge McCallum has served as an Assistant District Attorney, State Representative and District Judge.

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1 Judge Jay and Deanna McCallum 2 Jeff and Ginger Robinson 3 T ory and Tim Tettleton with Lynn Duncan 4 Curtis and Louise Willis 5 Jean Futch, Patsy Alexander and Sherry Mahaffey 6 Jack and Ginny Love 7 Wayne Smith, Marcus Clark and Mike Stone 8 Stanley Read, Ken Volentine and Bill Duncan 9 John Belton and Bill Hogan 10 Deanna McCallum with Bettie and Andy Wilkes 11 Debbie and Ricky Albritton with Rodney Alexander 12 S tanley and Judy Read with Jay McCallum and Winston Post 13 J ohnny Fatheree, Edwin Watley and Verdell Ventroy 14 Colby Bowman, Don Kneipp and Milton Moore 15 R odney Alexander, Jay McCallum and Randy Alexander 16 Faith Stephens, Jay McCallum and Jimbo Stephens 17 Shannon and Steve May with Jay McCallum 18 Tiphanie and John Maxwell

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Twin City Ballet Christmas Gala

On Saturday, December 3rd, Twin City Ballet Company held its annual Christmas Gala in conjuction with the 7th annual Festival of Trees. The lobby of the Jack Howard Theatre at the Monroe Civic Center was filled with Christmas trees of all sizes and shapes that were auctioned off to the highest bidders. Following the auction, patrons enjoyed the heart-felt story of “Rudolph.” Under the direction of the incredible Joe Istre, dancers brought everyone’s favorite classic to life.

For the second portion of this year’s Christmas Gala, the company performed Act II of the most beloved, classical Christmas ballet of all, “The Nutcracker.” TCB’s performance of “The Nutcracker” featured choreography by Victoria Vittum-deBethancourt, with special performances by guest artists, Elizabeth Keller and Daniel Sarabia.

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1 Cindy Foust, Breanna Young and Beth Swanner 2 Meghan Sellar and Brandi Cole 3 Paula Ford, Aimee Titus and Johnye Ford 4 Lisa North and Susan Lolley 5 Riley and Amber Keen with Sierra Shambro 6 Amber and Richard Denton 7 Meredith Smith and Judith Richey 8 Olivia and Michael-Ann Delcambre with Lori French 9 Marsha Powell and Bella Harrel 10 Tamy Titus, Tashia Hines and Nicole Leggett 11 Phillip Diehl, Sarah Cady and Andrew Cady 12 C ayla Cole, Amelia Haynes, Abbi Scallan and Taylor Hines 13 B art Finley, Austin Ramsey, Nicole Ramsey, Hank Hamilton, Heather Finley and Banks McCurdy 14 Georgia Moffett and Georgia Street 15 H ope and Rebecca Robertson 16 Ken and Andrea Slocum 17 L eeia Rispoli, Bonnie Gustinger, Kerri Gustinger, Kamryn Gustinger and Lillian Sims

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Garden District Block Party The Garden District Block Party was held on December 1, kicking off the holiday party season. Presented by Governors Cigar and Pipe, the event teamed up with Houston, TX to bring you a food, art and music experience like none other! The line-up was amazing and delivered an amazing atmosphere. There was food from award winning local Chef Cory Bahr and heralded Houston Chef, Chef Ryan Lachaine. Musical acts included local band, The Supernaturals and Houston natives The Tontons! Local artists and other local vendors attended the show show-casing some amazing work and tastings. Governors would like to thank the sponsors and everyone that showed up to help make it a night for the books!

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Callie and Maddie Harrell T im Wakeman and Lauren Pennywell C hris and Rachel Lynn C arly Rankin, Jennifer Callender and Lindsey Shepherd 5 Justin Martinez, Friday Ellis and Andrew Lee 6 Ashley Ellis and Jennifer Zimmerman 7 Nic Jones and Colt Hinton 8 L auren Maddox Daniel and Melissa Flemister 9 Nancy, Emorie, Lauren and Brian Creekmore 10 Amy Baten and Andrew Canales 11 Tyler Thrailkill and Emily Bailes 12 Jennifer Haneline and Mary Linda McCann 13 Kali Brown and Danna Parsley 14 S abre Masters and Logan Massey 15 Asher Ellis and Courtney Wetzel 16 Ashley Clarke and Donald Johnson 17 Robb and Jami Knight

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Bank of Ruston Art Show

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On December 5, Bank of Ruston held their annual Holiday Art Reception. The gathering was held in the main branch’s office lobby in downtown Ruston. The festive and much anticipated event was a great way to kick off the holiday season! Guests mingled and viewed art from some of the area’s finest artists, while catching up with friends, and enjoying delicious food. This year’s theme was “Mapping Out A Future For the Arts.” A portion of the sales from this event benefited the North Central Louisiana Arts Council.

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On the BayouScene 1 Johnnie Hogan and Brandon Ewing 2 Dean Dablow and Chastain Wardlaw 3C ullen Bishop and Christy Duncan 4 Rosemary Ewing and Debbie Nealy Click 5 Kelly Hogan and Tisdale McDonald 6 Julie Kyte and Mary Elleanor Temple 7M ichael Apter, Catherine McVea and Jessica Slaughter 8V anna and Seth Hood and Matt Pullin 9 Shelly Nealy and Renita Myers 10 Doris Marzett and Cheryl Sutton 11 Lynda Steed and Emily Pullin 12 Maggie Boudreaux and Tommy Rogers 13 Randy Ewing and Bill Hogan 14 Neal and Anita Walpole 15 Cash and Emma Melville 16 Jean McWeeney and Melanie Levy 17 David Hedgepeth, Paul Hogan and Angie Biscomb 18 Robert Temple and Dicky Nealy

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Affinity Ribbon Cutting Affinity Health Group unveiled their newest health facility on Oliver Road on Friday, September 22. This new facility features eight medical suites with over 40 medical professionals, a children and family walk-in clinic, X-Ray facility, clinical laboratory and a full service pharmacy. Guests took part in an official ribbon cutting and enjoyed light refreshments.

Affinity providers and their staff serve 22 clinics in north Louisiana and employ a total of 500 medical and administrative professionals.

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On the BayouScene 1 Dr. Gary and Sissy Jones 2 L eslie Murphy and Tabitha Hendon 3D r. Art Yarbrough and Roger Wilson 4 Christina Ross, Dr. Gregory Green and Melissa Flemister 5 Rachel Watson, Kim McCarty and Jamie Gable 6B arbara White, Michal Hale and Sarah Cummins 7 Jessica Hendricks, Amanda Bratton and Tara Ethridge 8 Eddice Stricklin and Courtnie Owens 9 J ordan Guillot, Ron Harris, Brian and Katherine Varner 10 P enelope, Adam and Charity Jones 11 Joel Wiedeman and Billy Justice 12 Michael Echols and James Moore, Jr. 13 Mary Francis Siggers and Carol-Anne Lenard 14 Pat and Becky Hall 15 Doris Roberts and Joy Etier 16 T iffany Ables, Jennifer Phillips and Bronwyn Watts

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RELATIONSHIPS

Meredith’s Musings The Third Trimester |

By Meredith McKinnie

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’ll be honest; pregnancy itself was not something I looked forward to. My mom had always insisted she hated it; it was a means to an end. Perhaps her blatant honesty about the condition had something to do with my waiting until the “geriatric” age of 35 before trying to get pregnant. But to my surprise, the first six months were relatively easy. I had barely gained any weight, which for a girl my size is relatively common. I had no morning sickness. I was still working out five times a week, eating what I wanted, not going crazy with cravings. My husband said my mood was the same, not radically hormonal. I felt I was acing this thing my mom insisted was so difficult. And then came the third trimester.

Something shifted, and my body no longer embraced its condition. I found it harder to sleep, couldn’t get comfortable; bathroom trips became necessary as soon as I stood up from the one prior. And these were the minor inconveniences. Years ago,

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I suffered from carpal tunnel. It was brutal.

I can remember waking up in the middle of the night with this numbness/pins in my arms and hands sensation. I tried the braces, exhausted all my over the counter options, and nothing worked. I remember beating my arms against the wall, screaming in pain.

The contact with the wall felt better, simply because it was a different pain sensation, the only reprieve I could get. Most of my mother’s siblings suffer from carpal tunnel as well as many having had the surgery to cut the nerve all together. I learned it was hereditary. Factors like weight gain and nicotine aggravated the nerve. After a significant weight loss, my symptoms drifted away. Sometimes if I was lifting a lot of weights at the gym, I would get minor reminders to cut back, but otherwise, my carpal had been dormant for almost a decade.

I remember gradually starting to wear my braces at night during the fifth month, some uncomfortable pulling in my hands.

Before long, sleep became impossible. To make matters worse, I was teaching a summer class, and needed to be coherent. I’m afraid I wasn’t. In the mornings, I couldn’t make a fist. I quit getting coffee, simply because I couldn’t hold the cup. I put my hands through the steering wheel; the vibrations would force tears out of the corners of my eyes. My dear husband would dry my hair for me in the morning. He would listen patiently at night, as I screamed and loathed my condition. I said some horrible things; threw water bottles at the wall in frustration.

I still see marks as I walk through my house, a small reminder of the pain I endured and the frustration I felt. I understand now why people act out at their wits end; you feel you have to do something. Just taking it day after day becomes unbearable. It’s all you talk about; my friends would call not to inquire about the pregnancy, but to ask about my hands. I’m surprised anyone called me at all.

The ones who climbed into the trench with me, they’re my angels. It encompassed every minute of every day for me. It limited what I could do; enjoyment was not an option.

And every time the doctor would say, “They will go back to normal shortly after you give birth,” I would laugh at him. He was talking about the next three months; I couldn’t fathom the next three minutes.

Two hours after one of my many screaming fits in the early morning hours of August 11, my water broke. I’ll save that story for another day. But it was a shock; it happened five weeks early, and from the perspective of my frustration, not a moment to soon. In those first few moments alone with her, once they said she was healthy and wouldn’t require a stay in the NICU, I broke down and cried. I put my forehead to hers and just kept saying thank you through the tears. She rescued me from near madness.

She knew what her mother needed, and we were both going to be okay regardless. It was my first connection to this little person I had yet to get to know. She was my savior, and I know it won’t be the last time.

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Calendar of Events For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com January 1 First Full Moon of 2018 Celebration

The first full moon of the year is going to be on the first day of the year. Rangers will have scopes set up on the pier to view it as well as a bonfire and smores.

Moonrise is at 5:15.

Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge 480 Richland Pl Drive, Monroe Hours: 5:00- 6:30 p.m.

Cost: Free Phone: 318-387-1114

January 5-6 Stampede at the IKE PRCA Rodeo

This West Monroe rodeo is held at Ike Hamilton Expo Center and hosted by Pete Carr Classic Pro Rodeo.

Ike Hamilton Expo Center Arena 501 Mane Street, West Monroe Hours: 7:30 p.m.

Cost: Advance general admission tickets are $15 and they’re $18 at the gate., Children $6 Phone: 318-325-9160 January 6 Friction Fighting Championship 1

Louisiana’s first MMA Show of 2018! Join us for a great night of fights!

West Monroe Convention Center 901 Ridge Avenue, West Monroe Hours: 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Cost: General Admission $21.97 Phone: 318-396-5000 Logan and The Legendaries

Logan and The Legendaries will be performing a live concert Saturday Night at the Brass Monkey Pub and Patio.

Brass Monkey Bar and Patio

521 Desiard St, Monroe Hours: 10:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.

Phone: (318) 537-9233 January 8 Detox Yoga Series

A feel good challenge! After indulging during holidays, our bodies, minds and spirit can use a little reset and cleansing. Join Arely Castillo and Lynn Clark for a special yoga challenge on Monday evenings. The challenge begins on January 8th and ends on March 19.

Attend at least 10 classes and you will receive a private yoga session with Lynn or Arely! All-levels are welcome!

Monroe Athletic Club · Monroe Hours: 5:45 p.m.

(318) 387-2352 January 8-10 2018 Auburn Avenue Pastors Conference

Mark your calendars now for the 2018 Auburn Avenue Pastors Conference held here in Monroe, Louisiana. The theme of the conference this year is ALTAR to ALTER: How the Transformation of the Church Transforms the World and the speakers will be addressing the issue of the Church’s integral role in the transformation of culture and the world. Speakers this year include: Matthew Bates, Peter J. Leithart and Rich Lusk. Look forward to this great time of instruction, discussion and interaction together – and like always enjoy getting to see other ministers and brethren from around the country.

Auburn Avenue Presbyterian Church 224 Auburn Ave, Monroe Hours: 12:15 p.m.

Cost: Pastor’s Registration- $100.

Pastor’s Spouse Registration- Free.

Non-Pastor Spouse/ Additional Family Registration $50.

Phone: (318) 323-3061 www.auburnavenue.org/ pastorsconference/

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January 9 Life Choices Annual Banquet

Hear from Mac and Mary Owen, National Directors of Celebrate Recovery, and learn more about Life Choices’ program and how you can get involved and make a difference in the community. Life Choices is a non-profit organization, primarily funded through the kindness of the community through churches, businesses and individuals. Life Choices offers pregnancy tests and information in a caring and confidential environment, as well as offers ultrasound, counseling, post abortive counseling and abstinence education.

Monroe Civic Center Banquet Hall Hours: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Phone: (318) 323-2200 info@lifechoicesofmonroe.com

January 11 Dollars and $ense Reality Fair

United Way of Northeast Louisiana presents the Dollars and $ense Reality Fair is a financial education simulation during which high school students actively learn how to make better financial decisions and gain knowledge of budgeting, saving and spending.

Hours: 7:45 - 10:30 a.m.

Sterlington High School 233 Keystone Rd., Monroe www.unitedwaynela.org Beer and Bards

Beer and Bards takes place on the 2nd 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 January 13 Bulls, Bands and Barrels with Frank Foster

This event will be featuring “Bulls, Bands and Barrels with Frank Foster” Monroe Civic Center 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Hours: 7:30 - 11:00 p.m.

Cost: Prices Vary Phone: 318-329-2225 January 18 Culinary Arts Event: From Grain to Glass

Ruston Artisans is pleased to provide a Culinary Arts Event.

Event Description: What’s brewing?

Beer! At this event, Ruston local Jean Gourd will introduce various styles of beer and discuss how craft beer is made “From Grain to Glass.” While doing so, you will have the chance to sample some of Jean’s current homebrewed beers, ranging from a light lager and blonde ale, to a more robust Belgian Dubbel and double chocolate stout. Various Belgian sour beers that have aged in a French oak barrel obtained from Landry Vineyards for over three

years will also be served, along with knick-knacks to help cleanse the palate.

Hours: 7:00 p.m.

Cost: $25 per person For more information, contact Monique Gourd at 601-299-1017 or email events@rustonartisans.com January 19 Ag Expo Cattle Dog Trial

SSDA Sanctioned Cattle Dog Trial, Working Border Collies. The Southern Stock Dog Association is working hard to promote interest in, activities for and recognition of the working stock dog on the farm and ranch through demonstrations, play days, and field trials.

Ike Hamilton Expo Center Arena 501 Mane Street, West Monroe Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Phone: 318-325-9160

January 19-20 AG EXPO 2018

Hosted by the North Louisiana Agri-Business Council, AG EXPO is unique in the Louisiana, south Arkansas, east Texas and Mississippi area. This premier event is attended annually by 10,000 to 12,000 visitors from the region.

Since the early 1980’s, AG EXPO has provided a means to educate the public, both youth and adult, on the many ways agriculture touches daily lives, from explaining the food chain to the multiple applications of agricultural products. The event introduces advances in technology and science being made for efficiencies in growing, harvesting and marketing all kinds of commodities. This is an annual networking and educational event for all things agricultural.

Trade Show, seminars, Jr. Livestock Show, Stock Dog Show, Horse Breed Extravaganza, educational displays. Fun for the entire family. Additionally, the agri-business community enjoys

a unique opportunity to present products and services.

Ike Hamilton Expo Center Arena 501 Mane Street, West Monroe Hours: 2:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $7.00, Children under 6 free Phone: 318-325-9160 January 20 8th Annual Spring Gardening Seminar “Living in Louisiana Landscapes” gardening seminar featuring Dan Gill, Keynote Speaker: “Creating Colorful Flowerbeds in Louisiana Landscapes”; Bill Fontenot: “Concepts and Considerations in Wildlife Garden Design”; Kenneth Kelley: “Roses for Louisiana Landscapes”; and Alan Futch: “Flowers of the Civil War-era South.”

West Monroe Convention Center 901 Ridge Avenue, West Monroe Hours: 8:00 a.m.

Cost: $20.00 Phone: 318-323-2251 St. Vincent DePaul Community Pharmacy: Poor Man’s Run

ULM School of Pharmacy is hosting a 5K and a 1 Mile Fun Run to support the local St. Vincent De Paul Charity Pharmacy which provides medications to those in need.

University of Louisiana at Monroe 1800 Bienville Dr., Monroe Hours: 8:00 - 10:30 a.m.

Cost: $10-$30 Phone: 318-342-1000 Twin Cities’ Krewe of Janus Grand Ball

Twin Cities’ Krewe of Janus invites you to attend a Black Tie Event - The Annual Mardi Gras Grand Ball - at 6:30 on Saturday January 20th, 2018 at the West Monroe Convention Center.

Enjoy Live Music and Dance to FlashBack5. Call 318-325-9904 to get yours.

West Monroe Convention Center 901 Ridge Avenue, West Monroe Hours: 6:30 p.m.

Cost: Tickets are $100 each or $180 per couple Phone: 318-396-5000 Corey Smith in Monroe, Louisiana Corey Smith will be playing live at Live Oaks Bar and Ballroom.

Live Oaks Bar and Ballroom 209 Olive St., p.m.- 12:00 a.m.

Cost: $20 Phone: 318-548-4562 January 27 Empty Bowls Benefiting the Food Bank of NELA

Fill up on fine food, art and music, while helping to fight hunger in our community. Enjoy a tasting of signature dishes from local chefs, plus live acoustic music and fun for kids - And you’ll take home a beautiful handcrafted bowl.

Ouachita Candy Company Warehouse 215 Walnut Street, Monroe Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Cost: $15 Food Only, $30 with Souvenir Bowl Phone: 318-322-3567 An Evening of Southern Elegance

The Annual Fundraiser for the Cancer Foundation League of Monroe benefiting area cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Complimentary wine, beer and heavy hors d’oeuvres with entertainment by Almost Famous from Memphis, TN. Live auction, raffle and mystery boxes.

Bayou DeSiard Country Club 3501 Forsythe Avenue, Monroe Hours: 7:00 p.m.

Cost: $100 Donation Phone: 3189661953

Live Oaks Bar & Ballroom 209 Olive St., Monroe Hours: 9:00 p.m.

Cost: $5 Phone: 318-548-4562 Platforms and Polyester

Its the 7th Annual Platform and Polyester Party! Presented by the Radio People with entertainment by Meet the Press and Costume Contest with prizes for the best 70’s attire. Tickets available at EventBrite.

West Monroe Convention Center Hours: 7:00 - 11:30 p.m. brittni@radiopeople.com 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.

The Interns at Live Oaks

The Interns are bringing back the early 2000’s at Live Oaks for the first time! Shreveport based, The Interns are taking crowds by storm with their infections Warped Tour set list with Pop and Billboard top 40 hits sprinkled in! Artists covered include: Foo Fighters, the Used, Blink 182, UnderOath, Hawthorne Heights, Queens of the Stone Age, Daft Punk, the Darkness, Taking Back Sunday and many more! So, bring your singing voices and your drinking money! 18 and up to enter 21 to drink WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2018 173

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