BayouLife Magazine July 2015

PHOTO CONTEST

Jeremy Thornhill Wins This Year’s Photo Contest With His Image, Fourth of July Fireworks

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20 / P. ALLEN SMITH A Honey of a Hobby 34 / ASK ERIN Seven Habits of a Highly Organized Person 38 / BAYOU KIDZ Celebrating The Fourth of July With Reverence

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42 / BAYOU ARTIST The Incomparable Lou Davenport 48 / MEREDITH’S MUSINGS My Sister is a Junkie

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50 / A. ALDEN’S MEMO The Ultimate Closet

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54/ FISHING WITH KENNY What’s in a Line 61 / THE FAT PELICAN Chris McKnight is Bringing Southern-Inspired Dishes to a New Level 72 / THE MAN ON THE CORNER Salutes, A Savior & A Saxophone 82 / BAYOU OUTDOORS Embracing the Ones You Love 86 / THE ARTIST IN NEPAL M. Douglas Walton Reflects on His Time in Nepal After the Devasting Earthquake 104 / BAYOU HOME Judi Horton’s Oxbow Lodge Located in Quaint St. Joseph, Louisiana 116 / THE AMBASSADOR Nell Calloway is This Month’s BayouIcon

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BayouLife

ULY IS ALWAYS A BUSY MONTH

for our family. I am lucky to share my birthday with my brother-in-law, Johnny Max Livingston and also my birthday month with Jon Michael and Morgan Livingston, Maré and Barrie Brennan, Jess Cochran, Sam Smith (BIG 40th), Mary Fuglaar, Erin Williams, and AMERICA! Cindy Foust wrote a great column this month for BayouKidz about truly celebrating our nation’s independence and what this holiday actually means. It’s humbling to hear veteran’s stories and know that there are people who gave their lives and continue to sacrifice their lives for our freedom. If you’ve ever crossed the 18th Street overpass, you might have heard the sound of a saxophone in the distance. If you look closely, beyond the concrete and treetops, you might get a glimpse of one former soldier standing under a gazebo playing for pasersby. On page 72, Donald Givens tells Meredith McKinnie about his time in Vietnam and the way his service to our country changed his life.

Maré and Martin made the trip to Lake Bruin to meet up with Judi Horton, the owner of The Oxbow Lodge. This charming lake house has a rustic, yet modern feel with all of the amenities a vacation-goer would want. Located in the quaint town of St. Joseph, LA, this lodge will sleep up to 30 people. We are already making plans to go and stay at this gorgeous retreat. See this BayouHome on page 104.

A quiet, unassuming mother and grandmother, you’d never suspect she was a player in foreign relations with world superpower China. That is precisely why Nell Calloway is our BayouIcon for July. The granddaughter of General Claire Chennault, it is fitting that Nell is the director of the Chennault Aviation and Military History Museum. See her story on page 116.

I met Lou Davenport over a decade ago and from the first time I was introduced, I thought she was captivating. I was excited to read Mary Napoli’s article on this month’s BayouArtist and it seems like she captured her perfectly. Mary describes Lou this way, “Davenport is not your typical southern magnolia of a woman. She is more like the wild, red 6 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

2107 Honor Street, Suite E Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: 318.855.3185 Fax: 318.855.4645

WW W. B AYO UL I F EM A G . C O M honeysuckle winding its way freely around her front porch. Like the fiery flowers, she is unruly, vibrant, and seemingly unstoppable.” See this article on page 42.

On April 25, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit the South Asian country of Nepal. For five days, M. Douglas Walton, and his art touring group of 13 other artists and their guide were stranded in a mountain village with little food or water and no amenties. Included in the group were Monroe residents Jan Quiett, Susan and Rudy Miksa. See their story on page 86.

I am extremely excited about visiting Monroe’s newest restaurant, The Fat Pelican. Owners Mandi and Chris McKnight are bringing southern-inspired dishes to a delectable new level at their family-owned and operated restaurant.

See page 60.

We hope you enjoy reading this issue of BayouLife Magazine. Have a great Fouth of July! ~ Cassie Livingston

PUBLISHER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com EDITOR Maré Brennan mare@bayoulifemag.com STAFF WRITER Michael DeVault michael@bayoulifemag.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Moffett melanie@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Toni Navarro toni@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Scarlett Holland scarlett@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Ashley Hubenthal ashley@bayoulifemag.com OFFICE MANAGER Ellie Jackson ellie@bayoulifemag.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Maré Brennan Dan Chason Kenny Covington Samantha Evans Dr. David Finley Cindy Gist Foust Linda Holyfield Kathryn Joyce Trent Livingston Erin Love Dr. Brent Metts Meredith McKinnie Dr. Timothy Mickel Mary Napoli Analeise Reeves Delia Simpson P. Allen Smith Beatrice A. Tatem Marlen Waters CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Martin G Meyers ON THE COVER Monroe-West Monroe Convention & Visitors Bureau Show Us Your BayouLife Photo Contest WinnerFouth of July Fireworks by Jeremy Thornhill BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Circulation: 12,000 copies monthly. Postal subscriptions ($20) 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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Fireman’s Brew Blazes Into Louisiana Choice Brands Proudly Introduces an Exciting New Brewery to Our Area

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

OB NOWACYZK,THE FOUNDER of Fireman’s Brew, is an active duty Los Angeles Firefighter and true hometown American hero. Throughout his 21 years of civil service, both as a firefighter and paramedic, Rob has responded to the call to aid and rescue thousands of lives from tragedy. Rob is also a member of the elite Urban Search and Rescue Unit, who performed miraculous rescues after the tragic earthquake in Haiti in 2010.

In December 2000, Rob and his fellow firefighter Ed were sitting on a steep hillside of an extinguishing brushfire above the Glendale Mountains. They were staring into the midnight sky, dreaming of the cool smooth taste of a fresh beer to quench their scorched dry mouths. From this point, these two Los Angeles based firemen set out to brew the best Fireman's Brew in the world.

The result was Fireman's Brew, the perfect choice to "Extinguish Your Thirst" and "Ignite the Party"! In a brief moment in time, the two men gave birth to a vision that they are living out today. Their thirst for beer after that exhausting day launched them into developing a hero's brand of products that every American could relate to. With every product sold, Fireman's Brew donates a portion of its profits to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation in Emmitsburg,

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Maryland. So whether your preference is blonde, brunette, or redhead, sit back and relax with the smooth taste of a fresh Fireman's Brew!

Blonde Fireman’s Brew original golden lager is handcrafted with American barley and a mix of American and imported hops to create a truly fine Pilsner style lager. Smooth, light malt flavors combined with just enough hops for balance deliver a crisp and refreshing beer with a clean finish and no bitter aftertaste. The Blonde pairs extremely well with lighter summer fare, such as grilled chicken and fish. Fireman’s Brew Blonde is available in 6 pack bottles at participating local retailers. 5.0% ABV, 17 IBU

Brunette Fireman’s Brew Brunette is a traditionally styled German Doublebock with rich structure and bold flavors, yet a smooth easy drinking taste and finish. It is handcrafted with imported hops and chocolate malts to create a strong, yet refined microbrew of uncompromised quality. Its smoky, roasted malts are the perfect complement to barbecue and can even pair beautifully with your favorite cigar. Fireman’s Brew Brunette is available on tap and in 6 pack bottles at par-

ticipating local retailers. 8.0% ABV, 19 IBU

Redhead Fireman’s Brew Redhead is a flavor packed red amber ale with smooth, rich caramel flavors. The combination of Yakima Valley hops and 3 different crystal malts complement a solid, toasty malt base to create a unique and flavorful ale. Redhead pairs well with fish tacos and fajitas. Fireman’s Brew Redhead is available on tap and in 6 pack bottles at participating local retailers. 5.5% ABV, 24 IBU

Look for Fireman’s Brew at a store near you. It’s a classic American beverage, brewed and bottled for a great cause, and always the perfect choice to ignite the party and extinguish your thirst. For more information, check out their website at firemansbrew.com.

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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So the World May Hear

Audibel The Hearing Center Proudly Supports the Starkey Hearing Foundation

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ID YOU KNOW A PORTION OF every Audibel hearing aid purchase goes towards helping others in need to receive hearing aids? When you or a loved one purchase new Audibel hearing aid technology you are helping to give the gift of hearing to someone less fortunate in need around the world. In our continued support of the Starkey Hearing Foundation, we want to help build greater awareness for this unique cause as well as their amazing work in providing better hearing to hundreds of thousands so far and more every year!

Through this Hearing Angel program, everyone can be a part of the collective efforts to show meaning and value to others in need through hearing aid donations to those who wouldn't normally get the hearing care they deserve. Providing better hearing is truly an opportunity to connect people to each other and their community to share experiences and life. By not only helping our patients get the hearing care they deserve, but also by letting them help someone else we feel we are connecting every individual through the gift of hearing.

Through this Hearing Angel program you can help the Starkey Hearing Foundation continue to provide hearing aids in the United States and numerous countries across the globe. It all starts with a hearing consultation and any amount of purchase, if hearing technology is deemed necessary, creates a contribution to this cause.

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The Mission The mission of the Starkey Hearing Foundation is "So the World May Hear," and it is about bringing understanding between people through caring and sharing. We believe caring develops trust and by sharing we find our humanity. We believe by growing engagement in this cause that we can increase tolerance and respect for life.

The Goal Our goal is to pursue our mission with commitment so that future generations can live in a world with more caring and peace.

Starkey Hearing Foundation uses hearing as a vehicle to reflect caring and sharing and improve the lives of individuals, families and communities around the world.

A Global Effort We conduct hearing missions in the United States and around the globe in an effort to bring the gift of hearing to those in need. We fit more than 100,000 hearing aids annually to children and adults through our global hearing missions and the daily efforts of our domestic Hear Now program. As a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, we have pledged to fit more than 1 million hearing aids to people in need this decade.

Starkey Hearing Foundation travels the globe delivering the gift of hearing to thousands of people each year who would otherwise live in the isolation of a silent world.

Providing hearing care alone does not completely dissolve the psychological barriers that continue to cause many of these children and adults to believe they are limited in ability. We stand firmly behind the belief that there is no such thing as disability, only ability. This belief guides each and every interaction we have with patients in the field. By reflecting love and care to the lives of each person we meet, we hope to send the message: “You are important. You matter. You are a part of this community and our world. You deserve a chance to reach your full potential in life.”

The gift of hearing opens up a whole new world of opportunity. It connects individuals to life and helps them realize they can accomplish more than they ever thought possible.

Hearing aids are important tools, but we really strive to empower the people we help toward a better life and leave them with the knowledge that they too can improve the lives of others.

Audibel The Hearing Center is Northeast Louisiana’s Audibel dispenser. Cherry Phillips “The Hearing Lady” has been serving this area for over 27 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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Game Changer

Using Games as a Metaphor for Winning in Life

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

T TIMES LIFE CAN FEEL LIKE A GAME, LIKE A GAMBLE. You win some and you lose some. There are highs and lows, opportunities and setbacks. In life as with playing a game, there are rules to follow and strategies to navigate. You will encounter some who cheat and you will also experience those who play fair. There are instances when you put on your game face to mask how you feel and what you think. There are times when you have to take a chance and like with the roll of the die or spin of a wheel you have to wait for the results. In some situations you may feel like a target or a pawn being played. You may find times when you are the lead player and other times when you struggle just to be in the game. What is your game plan for winning in life?

Merriam Webster defines “game changer” as a newly introduced element or factor that changes an existing situation or activity in a significant way. Ghandi said “be the change you want to see in the world.“ As a therapist, I encourage clients to be aware of how they respond to change and how they allow change to affect them. In life there are so many things we cannot change but like a good player in a game we can change our-selves, our perceptions, our approach, our strategy and win the game. People can implement change in their lives, and as a result become agents of change; game changers.

Recently, when playing a game with a young client I asked her what did she think about the changes in her life in response to her having lived in five different homes within two months. She looked at me and said” it’s just change.” I thought if only I could react to change so easily. “It’s your turn Ms. Beatrice, play.” Concerned by the number of moves this client made, I was caught off guard by her thoughts about change. Was familial change really so easy for this child, was her reaction due to her age or the fact it occurred so frequently in her life?

In life, the constant is change. Change can be stressful and yet good.

Change can make us happy and it can make us sad. Change can be corrective and planned or unexpected and disruptive causing feelings of uncertainty and fear. Change can serve as a catalyst and propel us to 12 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

great heights professionally and personally. Change can knock us off our feet like tumbling blocks falling to the floor or we can feel empowered, motivated and inspired by change. Change can be life altering and can result in meaningful experiences.

Many evenings, I watch the game show “Family Feud” hosted by Steve Harvey. It has become a late night ritual. I share with my aging aunt; It is a way we connect before going to bed. We watch as different families bursting with energy, await their turn to hit the buzzer to say the right answer and to eagerly announce “We’re going to play, Steve.”

Everyone comes with the same intent to be the champion, to win $20, 000 and have a chance at winning a new car. I look forward to this ritual as it serves as an emotional release after a day of working with clients planning their game for life. It is also a time when I reflect on the occurrences of the day, reminisce on the way we were, while marveling at the fact change is coming.

Suggested rules for your game of life: Be the champion of your life.

Recognize healthy and helpful competition and always play fair. Know what you want in life. Be open to making the necessary change to obtain the success you want. Commit to being an agent of change for your life.

As with sports, develop your playbook for your life, and in essence, have a plan to win. Life is metaphorically like a game, you are either a player or you get played. Keep in mind, when losing there is always something to gain. Avoid hiding and seek the truth. Pay attention to the moves people around you are making. Recognize there are times to make the first move and times to wait your turn. There are times to be on the team and times for solitary play. Be mindful. Just when it feels as though the odds are against you, you will have a second chance.

Know you can win because there is a winner inside of you!

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

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Doe’s Eat Place A Taste of the Tamales in Downtown Monroe

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F YOU HAVEN’T HAD THE PLEASURE of tasting Mamie’s tamales, make a date for yourself. You’re in for a coveted southern treat. Doe’s Eat Place with its chic southern down home feel, nestled in Washington Plaza in downtown Monroe, specializes in steaks, including porterhouses, ribeyes, filets, and strips, along with shrimp and lobster. The original Doe’s Eat Place dates back to 1941and is in Greenville, MS, which is known as the hot tamale capital of the of the world. Monroe’s location goes a step further than its predecessor by offering a full bar, including a dozen bourbons and various whiskeys – most of which are almost impossible to find in this area. And while the menu reads simple with a dramatic eyecatching font, the flavors are anything but.

Steakhouses are easy enough to come by, but quality meat selection and attention to detail in preparation are not. And while some may say Doe’s is known for its steaks, others revel in the tamales.

House Mom of the establishment, Sheena B., has this to say about Doe’s tamales and preparation: “Have you ever had a Delta hot tamale?

They’re much smaller than their Mexican counterpart, but still big in flavor. Tamale recipes vary from place to place, and person to person. In the Mississippi Delta, no two people make hot tamales exactly the same. Pork is traditional.

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turkey. Some broil their meat, while others simply brown it. Some people use masa, while most prefer the rough texture of corn meal. Most wrap in corn shucks, while a few have turned to parchment paper. Some season the tamale in just one way, while many will season the meat and the meal, as well as the water used to simmer the rolled bundles. Some eat theirs straight out of the shuck, while others smother them in chili and cheese.

As it turns out, there are as many stories about how people of the Delta acquired tamale recipes as there are ways of making them. Still, a Delta-style tamale is quite a specific thing. Connoisseurs know that a tamale from the Mississippi Delta is smaller than Latin-style tamales, is simmered instead of steamed, has a gritty texture from the use of corn meal instead of masa harina or corn flour, has considerably more spice and is usually served with juice that is the byproduct of simmering. Incidentally, in the Delta vernacular, the singular is, indeed, tamale, not the Spanish tamal.

While featured as an appetizer, some forego the suggestion, ordering the tamales as an entrée. They’re that good. Mamie’s tamale orders can range from three to twelve with chili for dipping. Their shapes resemble fat little cigars, notably smaller than traditional Mexican tamales, but similar in name and style. The indentions in the wrapping left from preparation remind the

diner that each tamale is hand-wrapped, crafted especially for each person. The light grease stains on each tube along with the dark brick reddish, orange color compliment the down home feel of the establishment, a goal of owners Sean Hammons, Andy Eaton, and Andy’s mother Virginia. They pride themselves on not only continuing the success of other Doe’s locations, but crafting special touches that give Monroe’s location its own personality and flair. The tamales speak for themselves, accompanied by the chili with the same reddish, orange coloring and frequently oozing over the side of each bowl onto the plate of tamales. This is a subtle, though perhaps unintentional reminder that the chili is meant for dipping.

A tamale experience can’t be experienced properly without one getting his/her hands dirty, and Doe’s tamales have proven more than worth the effort. While my experience with tamales existed only to the extent of passing carts on the side of the road with signs boasting tamales for sale, the class and sophistication, yet comfortable atmosphere of Doe’s afforded me the opportunity for my first tasting. So if you’re asking yourself, as I did, “Tamales? At a steakhouse?” Yes, it is just original and creative enough to more than satisfy your tastes.

Give your palate and your senses the jolt they deserve with this tasty decadence right here in the heart of downtown Monroe.

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Rugg and McClelland ate Lea McClelland and Daniel Stephen Rugg were united in marriage on Saturday, April 11 at 5 o’clock at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Monroe.

The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Scott McClelland. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Katherine Bowers and the late Mr. Andrew Peters, and the late Col. And Mrs. James McClelland.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Steve Rugg. He is the grandson of Mrs. Jackie Moore and the late Fred Moore, and Mr. and Mrs. Jasper Rugg.

Given in marriage by her father and mother, the bride wore a candlelight drop waist one shoulder gown. It was adorned with crystals. Her bouquet consisted of white flowers, ribbon from her mother’s wedding bouquet, crys-

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tals and their puppies ID tags.

Kate’s veil was borrowed from Dr. Rachel Morgan Farr. Her wedding jewelry included a special diamond heart pendant given to her by the groom and made by his grandfather, Mr. Jasper Rugg. Her sapphire and diamond bracelet was given to her by her mother.

She wore a pearl bracelet, that belonged to her grandmother, Mrs. Martha McClelland.

Attending the bride was Brittany Burkett as maid of honor. Leah Reitzell as matron of honor, and bridesmaids Erica Hoag, Summer Holloway and Alice Yates. Couple of honor was Daniel and Elizabeth Griffon. The bridesmaids wore biscotti floor length satin ball gowns and carried pearl and crystal bouquets.

Serving as best men were Brett McClelland and Daniel Stanley.

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The groomsmen were Ryan Campbell, Christopher Black and Kyle McClelland. Couple of honor was Ben and Rachel Duty. The ushers were Paul Michael Moore and Jeffery Maxwell Jr. The groom and his attendants were attired in chocolate brown tuxedos.

The double ring ceremony was officiated by Dr. Tim Neustifter.

The music was played on the church grand piano, which was given in memory of both of Kate’s great grandmothers, Mrs. Evanthia Fotiades and Mrs. Zelma McClelland. Mrs. Coralie White was pianist for the wedding occasion.

Following the wedding nuptials, a lovely reception was held at the Vantage Banquet Room. It was decorated with champagne cloths, white flowers, crystals and candles. Favorite Louisiana foods were served and the bride’s cake

was a four-layer delicacy. The groom’s cake featured New Orleans Saints decor, and in addition, there were cheesecakes with multiple toppings. There was also a candy table of treats created by the groom’s mother and family for everyone to enjoy.

Music was provided by Josh Madden. The couple’s first dance was to “You Look Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton. The bride danced with her father to “Joy to the World” by 3 Dog Nightafter he had changed into his camo tuxedo jacket. The groom danced with his mother to “Simple Man” by Lynryd Skynyrd.

The couple honeymooned in St. Lucia at the Sandals Resort. They have made their home in Monroe. phy.

Photography by Brenn Photogra-

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Minimally Invasive Thyroid Surgery Brent Metts, M.D., PhD. – Ear, Nose and Throat

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HE THYROID GLAND IS A BUTTERFLY-SHAPED endocrine gland located in the lower front of the neck.

Hormones released by the gland travel through your bloodstream and affect nearly every part of your body, from your heart and brain to your muscles and skin. Thyroid hormones help the body use energy, stay warm and keep the brain, heart, muscles, and other organs functioning, as they should. It also controls your metabolism (how your body uses energy from food), and how well you burn calories.

An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) makes fewer hormones than needed for the body to function properly.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism may be vague and often mimic other conditions including changes in the menstrual cycle, depression, hair loss, dry skin, greater sensitivity to cold, carpal tunnel syndrome and unexplained weight gain. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can cause goiter, heart problems, infertility and mental health issues. It can also cause birth defects in babies born to mothers with untreated hypothyroidism.

An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) makes too much hormone than needed which forces many bodily functions to speed up. Like hypothyroidism, symptoms may be hard to recognize but often include an unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, a low tolerance for heat, excessive sweating, chronic nervousness and moodiness. Without treatment, hyperthyroidism can lead to serious heart problems or bone problems.

Patients with thyroid conditions including cancerous or benign thyroid nodules, large thyroid glands (goiters), hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism are candidates for thyroid surgery. Surgery may also be recommended for nodules with benign biopsy results if they are increasing in size that could lead to speech or swallowing difficulties and pain.

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The most modern approaches for performing thyroid surgery are minimally invasive and endoscopic-assisted techniques performed in our area by Dr. Brent Metts. The surgery is easier to undergo and recover from than traditional surgery. Most importantly, it only leaves a tiny scar on the patient's neck. With traditional thyroid surgery, a permanent scar as long as four inches (and sometimes more) is usually very apparent on the necks of patients.

Minimally invasive, endoscopic (video) assisted thyroid surgery uses a high definition camera to perform the surgery through a very small incision. The camera provides a magnified view of the thyroid gland and the critical structures nearby.

Most of these surgeries are outpatient procedures that take between 30 and 90 minutes. Incisions are closed using a newer, safer method that doesn’t require drains, staples or stitches.

After surgery, patients can usually go home in one to two hours and can resume most normal activities the next day.

Traditional surgery almost always means a one-night stay in the hospital and a longer recovery period.

Dr. Metts is one of the few surgeons in the nation who is fellowship trained in Minimally Invasive and EndoscopicAssisted Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgeries. He also has a Ph.D. in Vestibular Neuroscience.

Combined with his medical training in ENT, he specializes in the evaluation of patients with dizziness and equilibrium issues.

Other services include Balloon Sinuplasty™, treatment of sinus and thyroid disease, hearing loss, voice care, sleep apnea and dysphagia.

Glenwood Ear, Nose, and Throat is located in the Glenwood Medical Mall at 102 Thomas Road, Suite 202 in West Monroe. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Metts, call 318-329-8458. Most insurance are accepted.

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P. Allen Smith

A Honey of a Hobby PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MARK FONVILLE e’ve all heard the saying “busy as a bee.” Well, it’s for good reason. Honey bees are hard little workers—always bustling and buzzing around bright flowering plants, trees and shrubs. Since I was young, I have been fascinated by the life of honey bees.

Back in the day there was a virtual super highway of activity that I could observe, but as we all know the honey bee hasn’t fared so well recently. Colony Collapse Disorder (caused by a variety of factors including pesticide use, the varroa mite and habitat loss) has resulted in a steep decline in honey bee populations. This isn’t just bad news for the honey bee, it’s bad news for us too. Honey bees, along with other pollinators, are responsible for one-third of our food supply. That’s reason enough to do everything we can to help these beneficial insects rally.

It’s been almost twenty years since I set up my first bee hive with the help of my mentor or “bee-tsar” as I called him, from the Central Arkansas Beekeepers Association. If you want to raise bees, the first thing I recommend you do is find your own “bee-tsar.” He or she will provided a wealth of information and support to get you well on your way to raising bees.

Until then, read through the following tips to help you get in touch with your inner beekeeper.

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Reasons to raise honey bees.

In addition to bee conservation, the health benefits of locally produced honey, propolis and royal jelly make urban beekeeping very popular. Honey bee products are packed with nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Then there’s 20 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

the ease of beekeeping. You can set up a hive in limited space and the honey bees are selfsufficient, independent little creatures that pretty much care for themselves. Whether you have a small garden, urban homestead or farm, bees benefit you and all your neighbors in a three-mile radius by pollinating plants, farming crops or orchards. Bees will increase the abundance of fruit, vegetables and flowers around them.

What you will need to get started.

Research is your first step toward keeping honey bees. Check out the local ordinances regarding hives and share your plans to keep bees with neighbors. Beekeeping is not for people with bee allergies, but for most folks it is perfectly safe. Honey bees are not naturally aggressive and only sting in defense or when you are working in the hive.

The best resources are people who are already keeping honey bees, they are like living books. And the best place to connect with these people is at a local bee club, association or a nearby cooperative extension at the university.

You don't need a lot of room to keep bees, but the area reserved for your hives will benefit from a warm and dry environment. Bees love the sun and they love it warm so find a sunny spot. I like to face my hives toward the south because this is what they tend to do in the wild.

Bees are not fussy about the climate, some species are more adapted to cold or heat than others. I raise Italian bees, which are excellent for long summer regions, but if you live in an area with short summers choose a type that doesn’t require a lot of food, won’t grow too fast and overwinters well such as carniolans.

Your best bet when deciding on a bee species is to find a local source from a reputable supplier.

Starter colonies come as packages (queen and bees), nucs (queen, bees and frames loaded with brood, honey and pollen) and swarms (queen and bees collected from the wild).

In addition to the bees, you'll need some equipment. Hives consist of a top cover and inner cover, supers, a hive body, frame and foundation and a stand. You'll also need a smoker, hive tool, helmet and veil and gloves.

What to expect the first year.

Once you've done all the leg work and have your equipment ready, you need to decide how many hives you want and where

to place them. One or two hives are a good start for beginners, because it's easier to manage and allows you to compare which hive is doing well and which is not. And if one of the hives falters you can use frames and brood from a strong hive to save the weaker one.

It’s wonderful to have an abundance of honey as a beginner beekeeper, but try to have a realistic outlook on your honey crop the first year. Maybe if the stars align perfectly with a good queen and good weather conditions, you may exceed your expectations. A strong hive can produce 2-4 gallons of honey in one good season.

The lifecycle of a colony is seasonal consisting of tens of thousands of bees—usually from early spring to late fall. The life of the queen is three to four years; drones usually die or leave after mating; and workers tend to survive for several weeks in the summer and maybe a few months in colder regions. Be prepared to replenish your hives in the spring if it does not fare well over winter.

Joys of the Honey Harvest

There’s no doubt you will find your own raw honey tastes more delightful than any you buy off the shelf. Honey from your own hives can be used to sweeten your favorite tea or drizzled over fresh warm biscuits. Try simple home recipes to enrich soaps, lotions and balms with the waxes, royal jelly and honey from your hive. Locally produced raw honey is also good for the local community’s economy and makes the perfect gift for family and friends.

P. Allen Smith P. Allen Smith is an award-winning designer, gardening and lifestyle expert and host of two public television programs, Garden Home and Garden to Table, and the syndicated 30-minute show P. Allen Smith’s Garden Style. Smith is one of America's most recognized and respected design experts, providing ideas and inspiration through multiple media venues. He is the author of the best-selling Garden Home series of books. Allen is also very active on social media such as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Learn more at www.pallensmith.com.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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Haik Humble Eye Center Introduces Medical Aesthetic Services Helping You SEE Well... LIVE Well... and Even LOOK Well

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AIK HUMBLE EYE CENTER IS proud to introduce advanced cosmetic and medical aesthetic services to our practice offerings. Our services are provided in a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere utilizing the latest technology and highly qualified professionals to deliver great results.

Our goal is to understand your areas of concern that need to be addressed and recommend the best leading edge treatments that fit your budget.

Along with treatments such as injections of Botox and Juvederm, four non-surgical procedures are now available to help you look and feel your best.

LASER HAIR REDUCTION Using a gentle beam of light, the Lumenis LightSheer® can help solve the problem of unwanted hair. The LightSheer® is more than 75% faster than the average hair reduction session, and also features the unique HIT™ and ChillTip™ technologies for pain relief. Treatment takes between 10 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the area being treated. No sedation is required for treatment and there is minimal discomfort, with no downtime after treatments. Additionally, LightSheer® is a smart economical choice, saving you money spent on temporary hair removal solutions.

IPL PHOTOREJUVENATION The Lumenis® IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

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photorejuvenation treatment offers visible improvements on a range of skin concerns such as age and sun spots, freckles, rosacea, broken capillaries and overall skin appearance. IPL treatment works with your skin to remove skin imperfections and stimulate collagen and elastic fiber production over a sequence of treatments. A fast “lunch-time” treatment with no downtime. Typically two to six sessions with two to four weeks in between are needed to achieve optimal results for most skin concerns.

ResurFx™ The Lumenis® ResurFx™ fractional laser is a non-ablative skin resurfacing technology for fine lines, skin texture and overall skin appearance. ResurFx is optimally tailored to address even the early signs of aging. This 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 more radiant, youthful looking skin.

Experience minimal downtime in a “lunchtime” treatment and return to your busy lifestyle. Optimal results are achieved after three to five sessions in four to five weeks intervals. However, you will continue to see improvements for up to six months following the treatment.

VASER® SHAPE VASER Shape is a safe and effective body

shaping treatment that can smooth, firm and shape those troublesome problem areas to give you the body you desire. A non-invasive treatment that combines ultrasound and massage, VASER Shape generally requires three to five treatments with no pain and no downtime. The procedure will smooth and shape your body but it is not a weight loss solution.

If you have those problem areas that are resistant to diet and exercise, and are looking for a non-surgical solution, then ask about VASER Shape today.

In addition to non-surgical procedures, Haik Humble Eye Center continues to provide a wide range of cosmetic surgical procedures such as eyelid surgery, laser skin resurfacing and neck liposuction.

Whether you are considering the many cosmetic procedures we offer or interested in discussing skin care maintenance, we can assist you in developing a realistic plan to achieve your goals. Safety and your results are of utmost importance for us at Haik Humble Eye Center and we do our best to make sure you have the most experienced doctors and staff working with you every step of the way.

For more information on our medical aesthetic services or to schedule an appointment, please call our main office in West Monroe at (318) 325-2610.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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The ULTRA Lifestyle

Live Healthy and Active This Summer 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 and social lifestyle. In a time that seems everyone is looking for the newest local, stoutest brew, the ULTRA™ family that has been around for fifteen years and is one of the fastest growing brands in the business.

Appealing to active people of all ages, the Michelob ULTRA™ family promotes the “ULTRA™ lifestyle,” nationally sponsoring foot races, golf events and tennis 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

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.

Local Sponsorships • FitRight Racing • Dirty South Running • Hells Hills Running Series • Lake Providence Triathlon • Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

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Since Michelob ULTRA™ was introduced in 2002, it’s high end American-style 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 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.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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Selling Your Home 29 Tips That Get Homes Sold Fast: Part 5

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BY KATHRYN JOYCE, REALTOR

ART 5 OF OUR GUIDE THAT will give you the tools you need to maximize your profits, maintain control and reduce the stress that comes with the home-selling process.

TIP #20 - Find out what the buyer can pay.

As soon as possible, try to find out the mortgage amount the buyer is qualified to carry and the size of his down payment. If he makes a low offer, question his Realtor® about his client’s ability to really pay what your home is worth.

TIP #21 - Find out when the buyer would like to close.

When a buyer would like to close is often when they need to close. Knowing this gives you his deadline for completing negotiations—again, an advantage in negotiations.

TIP #22 - Fix everything no matter how insignificant it may appear.

The step that squeaks, the light switch that doesn’t work, the hairline crack in the bathroom mirror—they might be minor annoyances to you, but they can also be dealkillers. The problem is that you never know what will turn a buyer off.

TIP #23 - Don't move out before you sell.

Studies have shown that it is more difficult to sell a home that is vacant—it looks 26 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

forelorn, forgotten and simply not appealing.

It could even cost you thousands of dollars.

If you move, you’re also telling buyers that you have a new home and are probably motivated to sell.

TIP #24 - Don't give yourself a deadline.

Forcing yourself to sell by a certain date adds unnecessary pressure and puts you at a serious disadvantage in negotiations.

TIP #25 - Don't take a low offer personally.

Don’t get angry or feel insulted; evaluate the offer objectively. Make sure it spells out the offering price, adequate earnest money, amount of down payment, mortgage amount, a closing date and any special requests. Now you have a point from which you can negotiate.

TIP #26 - A really low offer may mean the buyer's not qualified.

If you feel an offer is inadequate, now would be a good time to make sure the buyer has been qualified to carry a mortgage of the size this deal would require (if you haven’t learned this already).

TIP #27 - Don't take a low ball offer seriously.

An unacceptably low offer should not be taken personally or seriously. Rather, it should be countered, even with the slightest of reductions in your asking price. This lets a

buyer know that their first offer isn’t seen as a very serious one.

TIP #28 - Make sure the contract is complete.

The best way to avoid problems is to make sure that all terms, costs and responsibilities are spelled out in the contract of sale.

A contract should include the date it was made, the names of the parties involved in the transaction, the address of the property being sold, the purchase price, where deposit monies will be held, the date for loan approval, the date and place of closing, type of deed, any contingencies that remain to be settled and whether there’s any personal property included (or not) in the sale, among other things.

TIP #29 - Don't deviate from the contract.

Resist the temptation to diverge from the contract. For example, if the buyer requests a move-in prior to closing, just say no.

Now is not the time to take any chances of the deal falling through.

Please feel free to call Perry & Associates Residential Real Estate if you would like further explanation on any of these topics, or if you have any real estate questions at all. You can reach us at (318) 807-4663. To see what home prices are like in your neighborhood, visit our website www.perryresidential.com.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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We Put Our Heart Into Healing Yours Glenwood Heart and Vascular Institute

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ARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IS the leading cause of death in the United States. One in every three deaths is from heart disease and stroke, equal to 2,200 deaths per day. Because Glenwood recognizes the need for comprehensive heart care, we provide some of the most advanced cardiac care in our region. Glenwood is also the local cause sponsor of the Go Red for Women movement that works to educate women about the risks of heart disease so they can lead healthier lives.

Our non-invasive cardiology labs, cath labs, surgical suite, 64-slice CT Scanner, hybrid OR, telemetry unit, CVICU, DVT Clinic and surgeon's clinic are all conveniently located within the hospital.

DIAGNOSTIC CARDIOLOGY Many patients first come to Glenwood for diagnostic testing. Diagnostic testing performed by qualified technologists at Glenwood include: • EKG – (Echocardiogram) • Stress Tests • Heartview Scans • Holter Monitoring • Nuclear Cardiology • Cardiac Catheterization • Rhythm Disorders • Pacemakers and Defibrillators 28 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY Our interventional cardiology program is dedicated to the non-surgical management of patients with cardiac and peripheral vascular disorders. Our physicians perform the following procedures: • Carotid Stenting • Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting • Coronary Angioscopy • Clot Removal for Heart and Vascular Blockages • Peripheral Arterial Angioplasty and Stenting • Renal Artery Stenting

CARDIAC - PULMONARY REHABILITATION CENTER Glenwood’s Cardiac-Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center is designed for individuals who have experienced a heart attack, bypass surgery, angioplasty/stent, chest pains, valve disease or individuals with multiple risk factors for developing heart disease. Our Cardiac-Pulmonary Rehab program uses a progressive multidisciplinary approach to assist patients in setting achievable goals for resuming a healthier lifestyle through exercise, nutrition, education and social support. With a physician’s endorsement, an exercise prescription is provided for patients that is tailored to fit individual

needs and goals by our cardiac rehab staff.

ACCREDITED CYCLE IV CHEST PAIN CENTER When you’re having a heart attack, where you choose to go for treatment could be one of the most critical decisions of your life. Cycle IV accreditation is the highest rating a Chest Pain Care facility can earn. Glenwood earned it by demonstrating expertise and commitment to quality patient care by meeting or exceeding a wide set of stringent criteria.

Using STEMI protocols, Glenwood’s door to balloon times for transported STEMI patients is significantly reduced to give them the best chance of survival.

ANGIOSCREEN MOBILE UNIT Glenwood’s AngioScreen Mobile Unit provides an easy-to-take, non-invasive screening that usually takes only 10 minutes. The painless screening provides participants with immediate information about their circulation, risk of heart disease, stroke and abdominal aorta.

For more information about Glenwood’s comprehensive heart and vascular services, call 877-726-WELL or visit us online at www.grmc.com.

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Middleton Honored by MAIS

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River Oaks Headmaster Garners Recognition

HEN DR. TOM MIDDLETON TOOK THE HELM of River Oaks School in 1994, it began not only a new chapter in his already impressive education career, but also a new era at River Oaks. Over the last 21 years, Middleton’s efforts at the school have garnered the attention of parents and educators alike.

In honor of those efforts, the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools selected Dr. William Thomas Middleton for the Joe F. Shepard Award. This award is given annually to recognize an outstanding headmaster for his leadership, loyalty and service contributions to MAIS and member school. This welldeserved award is a compilation of his many years of dedication to the MAIS and the field of education.

River Oaks School Board President Gary DeWitt applauded the recognition, saying it was something Middleton is “very deserving of.”

“I admire his devotion to education and appreciate not only his many years of service to River Oaks School, but also his commitment to MAIS, SACS, and other committees on which he has served,” DeWitt said. “River Oaks School is very fortunate to have enjoyed the stability and consistency of Dr. Middleton’s leadership for over 20 years. He is a treasure to our community and the River Oaks Family.”

Middleton first came to River Oaks School from the public school system. From 1990-1994, he served at Ouachita Parish High School, first as an assistant principal and then as principal.

Prior to his time at Ouachita Parish High School, Middleton was principal at Ouachita Parish Junior High, a role he held for five years from 1985-1990.

A native of Arcadia, Middleton graduated in 1971 from the University of Louisiana-Monroe, then Northeast Louisiana University, with a Bachelor of Arts in Education, specializing in 30 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

social studies with a minor in English. What came next was a long, successful career in education as a teacher and coach in the public school system.

Middleton began his early career in his hometown of Arcadia, where he accepted a position at Arcadia High School.

After just a couple of years, he relocated to Monroe, where he pursued a Masters in Supervision and Administration. Upon receipt of his Masters from NLU, Middleton accepted a position at Swartz Junior High, as a teacher and coach.

From there, Middleton enjoyed several other leadership positions at schools in the Ouachita Parish School system, including stints at Riser Junior High, Riser Elementary School and the central office. His central office experience included serving as a teacher evaluator from 1981-1982.

But Middleton’s love was always school-level leadership, and he received the opportunity to fulfill that love in 1976, when he became assistant principal at Jack Hayes Elementary School.

From there, he served as acting principal of Swartz Junior High School, acting principal at Jack Hayes, and eventually as principal at Ouachita Parish High School.

Along the way, Middleton received an impressive array of honors and accolades. In 1976, the Monroe Jaycees honored him as their Outstanding Young Educator. In 1985, he was named Principal of the Year by the Ouachita Parish School system.

Away from school, he reared three children with his wife Alice. He served as a deacon of North Monroe Baptist Church, where he continues to teach Sunday school classes. He has served in educational leadership positions, including terms as president of the Louisiana Independent Schools and on numerous MAIS committees.

This year marks Middleton’s 21st year at River Oaks School and his 44th year in professional education.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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BAYOUBUZZWORTHY CENTRICITY, A FRANK KELLEY, JR. LIMITED EDITION ABSTRACT

Centric commissioned Frank Kelley, Jr. to create a limited edition abstract titled, Centricity, which means strong together. As a ‘member-centric’ organization, Centric exists to serve its members and their needs to ‘Bank Better. Live Better.’

The limited edition, Centricity may be viewed at each Centric location. A digital version may be seen at www.MyCentric.org.

REVISION REP VISITS HOPKINS DERMATOLOGY

Ann Wall, representative for Revison Skincare visited Hopkins Dermatology on Thursday, June 11, 2015 for a Lunch and Learn Presentation. Free gifts and expert advice were provided while guests sampled a range of the Revision products. Other perks included champagne from 3:00 to 5:00, a $50 gift card with purchase, complimentary dermaplane and black mask or neck and scalp treatment.

HEMLINE MONROE HOSTED LULULEMON

Hemline Monroe hosted its first lululemon athletica trunk show on Tuesday, May 26th . Amanda Bailey and Karolina Glaz from the lululemon Jackson, Mississippi store brought a wide variety of both men’s and women’s athletic wear, yoga wear and accessories including yoga mats, bags and more. The lululemon trunk show brought in a very enthusiastic crowd ready to shop the newest styles and prints by lululemon.

VANTAGE STATE BUILDING

Vantage is proud to begin construction on what will be known as the Vantage State Building. The building, the former State Office Building, was first the Virginia Hotel. Plans for the historic renovation include the restoration of the hotel entry lobby featuring intricate plaster moldings, stone floors and columns, a large skylight and grand staircase which leads to the second floor, as well as an event space on the sixth floor along with a rooftop garden. Once completed, this six-story office building will allow for public access to Vantage’s Marketing and Member Services departments, a wellness facility, office space for approximately 400 employees, a large conference room and two large retail spaces on the ground floor. Mike Walpole of Architect L.L.C., and Lincoln Builders, Inc. of Ruston are working together on the project.

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LAPA HOSTED BREAKFAST

The LAPA (Louisiana Academy of Physician Assistants) hosted a legislative appreciation breakfast at Aron's pharmacy in Monroe. Physician Assistants from the region came to show their support of our local legislators.

Captions: Senator Mike Walsworth, Stephanie Maguire PA-C, Katie Murphy, Senator Neil Riser, Lena Sevin PA-C

Carlos Hernandez PA-C, Dr. Stephen Maguire, Dr. Carol, Dr. Caire, Stephanie Maguire PA-C

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purse and/or car for any first-aid or beauty emergency and she always preplans and prepacks for any road trip.

Highly-organized people do not like to procrastinate.

Putting items away. Since everything has a specific home, it takes an organized person only fifteen minutes at the end of each day to tidy her home.

ask erin

SEVEN HABITS OF A HIGHLY-ORGANIZED PERSON

by Erin Sharplin Love eing highly-organized doesn’t just happen – there is a process that must occur, and that process starts with a change in your mindset. Getting organized is much different than staying organized. To stay organized, you must change your lifestyle and make a habit of being organized. It is often said that to make an action a habit, you must do it for twenty-eight consecutive days. If you want to become a highlyorganized person but have no idea where to start, below is a list of habits that such people possess:

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Following a to-do list religiously. You will be hard pressed to find an organized person who doesn’t follow a daily or weekly to-do list. It is typically the way we start and end each day, so adopting this habit is crucial to getting things done!

Giving everything a home. Every little

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thing in an organized person’s space has a specific and well-planned home. For instance, a highly-organized person will never pay a late fee because of a misplaced bill. She will never lose her keys and is, therefore, never late. She never makes duplicate purchases because she knows when something needs to be repurchased. And so on.

Decluttering regularly. Highly-organized people rarely have any trouble getting rid of items that aren’t needed or used on a regular basis. In fact, they often set “cleaning-out” dates twice a year, typically in the spring and fall.

Being prepared. Something always has the potential to go wrong, but an efficient person thinks ahead and is prepared for most mishaps. For instance, she chooses each day’s outfit the night before to thwart any last-minute delay. She has a kit in her

Delegating. A highly-organized person knows her strengths and her weaknesses, and she will always delegate those things which she is not good at and doesn’t have time for, to someone else. She values productivity.

Saving ten minutes a day. Taking ten minutes for yourself each day is very important to your productivity and wellbeing. A highly-organized person schedules at least ten minutes each day for a little “me time.” Take that time to enjoy a cup of tea, read a book, or simply enjoy nature with a quick walk. You will be amazed at the increase in your energy and productivity.

Now, I challenge you to become a highlyorganized person! It will take only 28 days to make your life easier.

Erin Sharplin Love, owner of Panache by Erin, is a Certified Fashion and Image Consultant, Professional Organizer, and Certified Wedding Coordinator whose specialties include outfit coordination and closet organization. Love has a knack for creating the perfect organized spaces that work with each client’s personality, for helping her fashion clients develop their own personal style, and for helping her wedding clients create the wedding of their dreams within their budget and without the stress. Panache by Erin offers the following services – outfit coordination, personal shopping, personal color analysis, home/office organization and wedding/event coordination. To learn more please go to www.panachebyerin.com.

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Lacking a College Degree?

With eULM, Your Time is Now

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HERE ARE TIMES IN LIFE THAT WE ALL FIND ourselves putting off the things that deserve our greatest focus.

It may be a home improvement project, making healthier life choices and for some, it’s continuing or finishing a college degree. At eULM through the University of Louisiana at Monroe, we understand the obstacles adults face, and it is our mission to help you overcome them. Finishing your degree may feel like a daunting task that could never work out, but we are here to tell you that it can; and we believe that your time to start is now.

Allen Saunders, writer, journalist and cartoonist, is credited with the statement “life happens while you’re busy making other plans,” and we challenge you to achieve your academic goals as part of your new life plans. eULM is proud to serve adult learners who are looking for an opportunity to start or finish a degree while managing the responsibilities of work, family and life’s obstacles. The University of Louisiana at Monroe has a long tradition of academic excellence, innovative faculty members and dedication to student success. We care about our students in and out of the classroom. eULM offers over 30 degrees in an online format. We have courses that are offered year-round, and are presented in four, eight and 16-week formats. Courses are available in every level of education, from associate to doctoral levels.

eULM’s Big Accomplishments eULM is proud to contribute to ULM’s success by earning numerous national and state rankings for quality and affordability.

Below are just a few of our most recent recognitions: • #1 Online Program in Louisiana – TheBestSchools.org • Graduate Programs ranked 12 in the Nation – GraduatePrograms.com • Most affordable programs – AffordableCollegesOnline.org • National Ranking for MBA Program – U.S. News and World Report • National Ranking for School of Education – GetEducated.com 36 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

Meet Our Staff The Office of eULM has a full-time staff that is committed to helping you navigate your academic career from initial interest to graduation.

• The Director of eULM, Paula Thornhill, is dedicated to offering a quality academic experience to online students, and is proud to lead an office designed to support adult learners. "Earning a college degree is much more than simply having a diploma; it’s an opportunity to choose one’s own path. I am proud to be a part of a movement that has broken down the barriers and has extended opportunities to learn and succeed beyond the four traditional classroom walls. I am continuously inspired by the determination of our students to attain their goal of earning a degree. Many of our students juggle family and work responsibilities, but remain steadfast in their academic journey. It is a privilege to be a small part of their success story."

• Katie Dawson is the Coordinator of Online Programs and works with Stephanie Hendry, Instructional Design Support Specialist, to make sure that our faculty have access to innovative resources and that the online courses are easy to navigate.

• Jessica Griggs is the eULM Student Advocate and Retention Coordinator. Jessica‘s role is to support students from their first class through graduation. When students have questions, concerns or struggles she is available to assist and encourage.

• Josh Ramshur is the Assistant to the Director of eULM, and he oversees and manages the eULM office.

• Michelle Williams is the eULM Recruiter and will soon be an eULM graduate. She is proof that adult learners can achieve their academic goals, and looks forward to sharing her ideas about how eULM can play a role in your new life plans.

BAYOUKIDZ

Fourth of July

Reflecting on the Importance of This Holiday

article by Cindy G. Foust

t’s hard to believe we have passed the half-year mark for 2015…but here we are, looking straight into the eyes of the 4th of July (I’m going to rhyme every chance I get.)

Before you know it, we will be making turkey and dressing and worrying over our Christmas lists. Where does the time go? Perhaps it’s because I’m getting older, but time sure does seem to be flying while I’m having fun, and fun we will be having in the next few weeks as my family enjoys the Fourth of July festivities. You know the usual, ribs, watermelon and a little homemade ice cream. Pure summer bliss. But is that what the 4th is really about? Sure, I’m a proponent of family togetherness, and spending quality time together on any occasion, but like Christmas, are we “over commercializing” this holiday, too? I know in writing this column, from my own family’s perspective, I’m not sure I have ever sat down with my children and discussed the importance of July 4th and what it means to be an American. Does that sound hokey? I’m sorry if it does, but in preparing for this month’s column, I wondered how many other families would have to admit the same thing.

I know when I was growing up (you know, as Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm), my grandfather, who proudly served his country in the Navy during World War II, took every opportunity to discuss our freedom and how

I

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fortunate we were to live in America. He also made sure to call me on my 18th birthday and remind me to get myself to the Regristrar of Voter’s office to register to vote. He considered voting one of our greatest privileges as an American. In researching for my article, I wondered how many of my fellow community members talk about these kinds of things with their children or grandchildren? I know our children learn about Independence Day in school (and from Will Smith, of course), but there’s a huge difference in reading from a textbook about the nation’s birthday and hearing first hand accounts from those who have served our great nation or had family that did so, and about the sacrifices that have been made so we can live with liberty and justice for all. Believe it or not, there are many articles written on this very subject. So for starters, this month, in my new role as the Patriotic Princess, if you haven’t already, why not sit down with your children and discuss the nation’s birthday, July 4th, with your children, and discuss what happened on July 4, 1776?

I personally plan to bake a “birthday cake” this year, for the first time, to celebrate.

Next, and depending on the ages of your children, have someone who’s served in the armed forces discuss the value of our freedom and the price that’s been paid, and continues to be paid for it. My best friend’s grandson is

a Navy Seal. Although he can’t discuss his deployment or his specific duties, he has answered questions posed by my son and his friends regarding his commitment to defending this great nation. It gives me chill bumps to think about it. Another question is, “Do you have a flag? If not, consider getting one, as a show of support to our country and our troops. Also, discuss with your children how fortunate we are to live in a country that guarantees us our rights, and our freedom to pray, to work, to worship or to bear arms, among many other privileges. Finally, point out to your children the many things they can do for their country, such as being a responsible citizen, voting (when they are old enough) and obeying the law. It’s hard to believe my son will be old enough to vote next spring, but I can assure you he will be voting in his first presidential election in the fall of 2016…and it will be my privilege to take him to the precinct to do so.

As you begin making your plans for the upcoming holiday, this year take a little time to discuss some of these suggestions with your children. It’s never too early to instill patriotic values and a sense of country in your young ones. Demonstrating reverence during the Pledge of Allegiance or making sure we know the words to the national anthem are also parts of being a good citizen. I read an article during my research that also had two wonderful suggestions, and one was to have your children write a thank-you to a someone who has served or is currently serving in the armed forces. Second, it encouraged us to buy someone’s meal who might be dining in the same restaurant as you, if they are wearing their fatigues. What a great demonstration of patriotism for our children to witness that kind of support. It might be easy to forget sometimes, as busy as we are, and I’m as guilty as the next, to take our freedom for granted. But as we sit on the eve of our nation’s birthday, why not take a few minutes and reflect on the importance of this holiday and share some of this sentiment with your family? After that, head to the fireworks stand and the farmer’s market for a good watermelon and enjoy the freedom and privilege to celebrate this holiday in this great nation. I am very grateful to those who have served and continue to serve to my family can enjoy the freedoms we do and live in this great land.

May God bless your family and may He continue to bless the USA.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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Early Childhood Education Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School Strives to Excel

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OR OVER HALF A CENTURY, Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School has been committed to nurturing the formation of saints and scholars through a high-quality Catholic education curriculum. Consistent accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement proves that the academically challenging instructional programs at JGS not only educate but provide for the solid spiritual development of our students. A vital portion of our engaging curriculum is our Early Childhood program.

Starting in Pre-Kindergarten 3 and moving through Kindergarten, our students are given a strong spiritual and academic foundation that will serve them well as they grow.

According to a recent report from the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), “high-quality early [childhood] learning can substantially increase the likelihood of academic success.”

At Jesus the Good Shepherd School, this means we must nurture the whole child from early childhood throughout upper elementary by creating a balance of activities and experiences that celebrate each child's spiritual, social, emotional, cognitive and physical growth. In addition, every child is encouraged to develop an awareness of the need for commitment to others through our Christian faith.

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In today’s world, it is a fact that the child who receives an exceptional Christian early childhood and elementary education is more likely to excel not only in elementary and secondary school, but also college and the highly competitive job market that awaits college graduates. Our Early Childhood Education curriculum is built to establish a solid foundation for students to build a lifetime love of learning and thrive not only within the walls of the school, but also the world that awaits them. The certified teachers and full-time, highly-qualified teacher’s aides make learning extremely engaging and kid-friendly while at the same time providing a structured learning environment. Early Childhood students enjoy not only their classroom time, but also weekly computer, library and physical education classes as well as daily Religion, art and music. All of our early childhood classrooms are organized into different “centers” in which the children can explore and create, all while absorbing new lessons that will provide them with a firm foundation as they move through their school years and beyond.

When a student graduates from kindergarten and moves on to elementary classes at Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School, they are excited about learning and well equipped to succeed within the challenging curriculum that awaits them. Our classes are small enough to retain an average 17:1 student/teacher ratio (without counting the

teacher’s aide) but large enough to provide a student with an opportunity to grow with friends who share various interests.

As a student moves through our elementary school they are given daily opportunities to develop their spiritual life and establish their own sense of who they are and where their interests lie, all while expanding their view of the world around them. Students, families, faculty and staff members not only attend weekly Mass as a school family, but regularly participate in community service projects which put our faith into action. In addition to service projects, students are also given the opportunity to become a member of different sports teams, academic clubs and Scouts, as well as enhance their learning with music, art, computer and physical education classes along with the popular Accelerated Reader program.

Interested families are strongly encouraged to register their child as soon as possible as many classes are either at capacity or very close to capacity. We invite you to find out more about Jesus the Good Shepherd by visiting our website, contacting the school directly or taking a tour of the school which takes place every Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. or by appointment during the summer months.

Our office will reopen after summer break on Monday, July 13th at 9:00 a.m.

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THE

INCOMPARABLE

LO U Lou Davenport, this month’s Bayou Artist, talks to

BayouLife Magazine about her love of art and family.

She’s a creative character known for producing whimscial works of art, while being as entertaining as she is talented.

article by MARY NAPOLI photography by BRAD ARENDER

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position at a major retailer that held a locaof shadow and light. This style can also be he peeks through a curtain tion in the outlet mall in Vicksburg. What found in Davenport's artwork, particularly of red honeysuckle and may have seemed like a great opportunity, her drawings. In Davenport's colorful drawsmiles as though she's just quickly proved to be a miscommunication ings, the subject matter seems to be glowing gotten away with someof mass proportions. as though it was lit from within. This qualthing. Her distinct, raspy "Then there was the time I was a Gap ity is difficult to achieve, but she has masvoice carries across her girl," admits Davenport while rolling her tered it. It gives her subjects such a realistic front porch and through eyes and halfway covering her face in mock effect, they appear three-dimensional at the humid air, welcoming her visitor inside. shame. It is one of the many hilarious stotimes. In her black and white drawings, it Before the front door closes, there is laughries in her repertoire that seem as though it produces a fine sense of depth and lifelike ter. could only happen to her. appearance. This talent has only grown There is usually laughter where Lou "It was absolutely ridiculous," she more astute throughout her artistic career.

Davenport is. She is the kind of woman that drawls in her distinct voice, extending the She studied art in her younger years, can find the joy and beauty in nearly any sitvowel sounds in words to add emphasis. "I but learned just as much from experience. uation. She retains a youthful spirit and has thought I was going to be doing merchanWhile pursuing her degree at Northeast the same look in her eye that is most often dizing and design, but it turned out to be Louisiana University in Monroe, now ULM, seen on a grinning, mischievous child. Her dressing mannequins in the windows and she met and married her great love, Larry talent is capturing beauty by creating folding t-shirt displays. Girl, I can still do Davenport. The couple moved to Abthought provoking, intricate and often my Gap fold, but I hated every minute of it! erdeen, Mississippi, then to Vicksburg, whimsical works of art. Davenport is nothThere was no way I was going to walk where they would raise their three children, ing if not true to herself. She draws and around the store wearing that stupid paints what she likes, what inheadset! I used to sneak away in the spires her, what is meaningful to dressing room and pull my feet up her. She doesn't take her artwork and hide!," she says pulling her knees or herself too seriously, but she unto her chest and looking upward. deniably possesses some serious "Dear God, get me out of here!" She talent. collapses into laughter and shakes her "My work has definitely head. "I'm so serious! It was a living evolved over the years," says Davhell!" enport. "I've worked in watercolNot long after her momentary deors, oils and acrylics. Now I am bacle at the Gap, Davenport left Vicksmostly drawing. Anything goes burg behind for a position she was with me. I've been asked for an much better suited for: Curator of Edartist's statement before, but I think ucation at the Masur Museum of Art those are just stupid. I paint; I in Monroe. draw. I think I'm pretty good at it, I've been asked for an artist's statement before, "The Masur really helped me to but I'm not for everyone. But I get but I think those are just stupid. I paint; I draw. build a foundation here in Monroe. I to do what makes me happy."

I think I'm pretty good at it, but I'm not for everylearned so much while I was there, Lou Davenport was born and I met a lot of influential people. I Mary Lou Williams in 1950's Basone. But I get to do what makes me happy. helped to display the exhibits, work trop, LA. An only child, Lou inherthe openings and give tours. But ited her mother's artistic instincts what I really enjoyed was the Carolyn, Adam, and Paige. All of the Davand her father's gift of gab and colorblind summers...those were rockin'." enport children excelled in the arts, but it view of the world. Her mother was an art The Masur hosted many art camps and was Adam who chose to make it his career. educator and a gifted painter who was programs for the local youth when school "Oh, he came out drawing. He can't greatly influenced by the works of Thomas was not in session, and those events were stop in the way that I can't stop. I made sure Hart Benton. Her style echoed that of Bencoordinated by Davenport. She loved interthat all my kids had plenty of art materials ton's and included similar sculpted, fluid acting with the students and helping them to express themselves with. My kids are all figures shown in somewhat surrealist landto develop their artistic skills. Davenport talented, crazy, and wonderful in different scapes. Davenport was captivated with her also served as Acting Director of the Masur ways." mother's talent and influenced by her exfor a time and enjoyed implementing yearly Davenport's creative talents extend bepressiveness. exhibits that featured the work of the Twin yond drawing and painting. Her talent for "She taught me how to use different City Art Foundation, of which she and decorating and arranging beautiful flowers brushes and how to bring out different efmany of her friends were members. This aland tablescapes has long been admired. fects," recalls Davenport. lowed local artists the unique opportunity After the passing of her dear husband, she One of the most distinguishable attribdecided to explore her design interests furto feature their work at the greatly respected utes of Benton's artwork that Davenport's ther. On a whim, she accepted a "design" museum. mother sought to echo was his dramatic use

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"Oh, it just tickled me to death to have my work up on those walls at the Masur. It is such a beautiful place and meant so much to be a part of those shows. Everyone loved the local artist shows, and the artists really enjoyed the support and recognition."

Inspired by her tenure at the Masur, Davenport decided to open her own gallery. With her son, Adam, and daughter, Carolyn, she opened Over the Moon on Art Alley in Downtown Monroe. Later, incredibly talented local wildlife photographer Burg Ransom would join ownership. This space allowed Davenport, and her children, to exhibit their artwork in various forms, as well as the art of other local and regional artists. Although her most recent work is in charcoal and pencil, Davenport also displayed her stunning watercolors, oil, and acrylic paintings. Her stunning representational style caught the eye of many art lovers who would purchase her work and often commission her for specific pieces.

"I've done so many portraits of people and animals from commissions. I've also done a lot of houses and landscapes," she explains and enjoys working with people to bring their ideas to life through her unique, creative perspective.

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Over the Moon has closed its doors, but now retired Davenport has not slowed down.

When she is not working on commissioned art, she creates a series of pieces dedicated to a specific subject. Recently, she completed a series of horses inspired by her childhood fascination for the animals. Each of the individual horses appear astoundingly life-like, and Davenport masterfully captures the intensity, strength and majesty of the animals. When she begins a series, she researches her subject matter extensively, learning about the history as well as studying the subject visually. Her approach to art has no rules, and she focuses her work on whatever appeals to her visually or emotionally.

"Right now, I'm working on a series of blues men," she says. "I've always loved the blues, and I wanted to know more about the history of it. So many of the greatest blues musicians were from the South, and drawing them gave me the opportunity to explore my love for Mississippi again. These men (like Muddy Waters and John Lee Hooker, ) have such expressive faces and are so much fun to draw."

The blues men series, which is nearly complete, has been featured Kohn's Art and

Jazz Bar, an off-the-beaten-path gallery in Houston, TX. Davenport's paintings and drawings are also on display at the Attic Gallery in Vicksburg, a eclectic place that focuses on folk art and the work of regional artists. Davenport also sells many of her pieces via her Facebook page, where each creation finds a home nearly as soon as its picture is posted. Her impressively detailed, stunningly prismatic, and endearingly unconventional artwork displays aesthetic qualities that are marvelous, memorable and reflect her adventurous nature.

Davenport is not your typical southern magnolia of a woman. She is more like the wild, red honeysuckle winding its way freely around her front porch. Like the fiery flowers, she is unruly, vibrant and seemingly unstoppable. Not unlike the honeysuckle vine, she moves through life as she pleases and creates her own path, leaving a trail of beauty in her wake. Each eclectic piece of art that blooms forth is not just visually arresting, but a natural expression of her colorful spirit. “My art is just who I am. I do it because I can't not do it. And I don't want to do it unless its fun."

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Addiction

Meredith’s Musings My Sister Is A Junkie

BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE used to love my baby sister. I loved her energy, her spirit, her patience, her wit.

We were never especially close; we didn’t hang out much outside the house, but given that we were four years apart, experiencing different stages of life, I didn’t think too much about it. But I loved her; she was always there, and perhaps I took that for granted. Perhaps as the older sibling it was my responsibility to reach out, build a stronger bond. I carry around guilt for that, something I just noticed recently. We attracted different types of people. She would call me an elitist, saying I turned my nose up at her friends, that I thought I was better than them.

The truth is, she was right. I did. I could see the path they were traveling and wanted no part of it. She, on the other hand, seeks out the weak; she thinks she can help them. She’s one of the most empathetic persons I’ve ever known. I envy that about her, but not her life as a result of making those kinds of friendships.

I’ll spare you the details of how her addiction came about. Most of those stories are the same. But she was what the drug coun-

I

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selor referred to as “far gone.” I knew her behavior was erratic. I knew her temperament was off. I had an idea of what she was doing, but not to that extent, not that she would inject her groin with meth several times a day, or steal money from my parents, or do the unthinkable for a fix. I couldn’t comprehend that. Like my parents, I just didn’t want to.

Much like those wives who know their husbands cheat and turn a blind eye, I was ignoring the signs, simplifying the situation, cleaning up her messes instead of confronting the issue. My mom, my sweet, oftentimes naïve mother, through tears once said to me, “How did I end up with one daughter who is a professor and one who’s a junkie? What did I do wrong? I treated you both the same, didn’t I?” I had no words. I just hugged her. She needed a hug more than an answer.

Once it became evident how far gone she was, when she no longer hid it, but flaunted her behavior, the hate began to set in. I despised her. I hated her for what she was doing to herself, to our family, to my parent’s otherwise solid marriage, to me, to our family name and particularly the hurt she was caus-

ing the people I love, the people I like to see smile. I saw her as selfish. I told her once, “Kill yourself! Release the rest of us!” I meant it at the time. I meant it with every ounce of hatred I had acquired. I wanted to hurt her, as she was hurting all of us, particularly Mom. I don’t usually allow anyone to hurt my mother. I shield her as best I can. I feel it’s my responsibility, even though I know she could handle herself. She’s strong, so strong, but when she breaks, she literally crumbles.

And my sister was breaking her. And to make it worse, through it all, Mom just loved her, and told her over and over again how much she loved her. My sister would scream, “I HATE YOU.” And Mom’s response was always, “I love you. I love you. I love you.”

And she did. Perhaps it was the mother/daughter dynamic, but I remember envying her ability to still love and hope in all those cycles of hellish haze. I just wanted to escape, but still shelter my mother at the same time. I was torn.

My sister has been in rehab, her second stint, now for 3 months. I spoke to her for the first time on Monday, my birthday. When I said hello, she broke down, barely able to speak through her tears. She kept apologizing, and unlike Mom, I didn’t cut her off and tell her it was all okay. She needed to get it out, and I needed to hear it. So I let her beg forgiveness, acknowledge her wrongdoing, and ask us to come see her. I agreed. I have decided I will do what I can for her recovery, but I will no longer let her actions consume me. I will no longer hang on to hatred. I will try to rebuild our relationship when it feels right and natural. I can separate my sister from the addict now. They’re two different people. I have to think that way for my own peace of mind; it’s just easier to let go of the hatred. I still hate the addict, but I want my sister back.

To be continued next month…

*Note: This was written over a year ago. There are many more words to the story to be shared soon. This is not meant to embarrass my sister or my family, but to serve more as a testimony. We often hide our problems, put on pretty faces, but when we begin to share, we begin to feel free. To combat addiction, we have to discuss it, inform others, share our truths. This is my humble attempt to share my version of my sister’s addiction. And if it helps one person, my sister and I believe it’s worth the risk.

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T H E U LT I M AT E C L O S E T

Dallas and Atlanta based fashion sales representative for Reeves & Company, Analeise Reeves, explores style essentials for the perfectly curated wardrobe. mong many of the fashion questions I receive from clients, boutiques and friends, one of the most common would have to be, “If you had to choose one essential for your closet, what would it be?” This obviously is a very loaded question concerning one’s vestments- for me to pick just one article of clothing that I would deem most important would be extremely difficult.

So this month I’ve put together my top 15 closet essentials with a description of why I feel they’re so vital as well as some street-style outfit combinations.

A THE BLOUSE You already know how I feel about white blouses- if you don’t have one, run out and find one TODAY! For something different, go for a sheer leopard, cotton stripe, plaid flannel or vibrant floral button up- they go with everything and immediately give off that Parisian je ne sais quoi.

COTTON TEESHIRTS V-necks, scoop necks, short sleeve, long sleeve, white, black, grey- I think that pretty much covers it.

JEANS THAT FIT When it comes to denim, always remember to find a style that fits, not only for size, but for your body type.

Athletic builds look great in flares; petites should go for the long, lean look of skinny jeans; curvy girls, opt for bootcuts and straight legs. Everyone should be wearing mid to high rise waists (they’re the most flattering on all shapes and sizes).

SILK CHARMEUSE CAMISOLE The perfect layering piece. Dress your leather jacket with your cami or pair it with denim and booties for an effortlessly chic look.

KNIT SWEATER Always opt for lightweight fabrics when choosing a sweater for our Louisiana weather. I like pieces that are thin enough to wear three seasons a year.

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LBD The “little black dress” doesn’t necessarily have to be “little” but it should definitely exude style and freshness. Yes, this is your date dress, funeral dress, work dress, etc. but it shouldn’t be a closet castaway.

Choose a dress with a little mystery and sex appeal as well as a lady-like element.

PENCIL SKIRT The pencil skirts in my closet are either in a suiting wool fabric or a knit-like jersey. As long as the length is at the knee or just barely above, you are good to go.

MENSWEAR BLAZER I’ve had my Theory “Boyfriend blazer” since high school and I still love finding inventive new ways to style it.

LEATHER JACKET Moto style leather jackets are my personal favorite but if you want a more mature look, leather blazers are just as lovely.

TRENCH COAT The Burberry trench is one of the most perfect pictures of a woman with style but it’s also very expensive. ASOS.com has some amazing knockoffs at incredible prices.

DRESS PANTS A peg leg or wide leg suit pant (depending on your body shape) is a must for last minute engagements. Throw them on with a crisp white shirt and pumps and feel instantly confident.

BLACK & NUDE PUMPS I prefer pointed-toe pumps and square-toe platform pumps. Choose a style and heel height that makes you most comfortable.

COOL SNEAKERS Signature’s by Linda Reeves veterans all know and love the Superga sneaker (great for travel). And if you aren’t familiar, you can find them on numerous websites in a variety of colors. I also love Converse and Nike.

BOOTIES Rag & Bone makes my favorite ankle boot, the “Newbury”, but honestly any brand, style, material and color is great.

CLASSIC HANDBAG If you don’t have a designer bag, make sure you opt for a very simple, classic shape that will span decades. If you buy quality and take great care of your bags, they can last years and years.

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Nothing is better than watching fireworks, munching on watermelon and spending time with family on Independence Day. These great items from area boutiques are perfect for the Fourth of July.

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1) Burney’s Furniture 2) The Eye Clinic of Monroe 3) Sleepy Hollow Furniture and Mattress 4) The Children’s Shoppe 5) Debbie’s Hallmark 6) Lincoln Outdoor Living 7) Hollis & Company Jewelers 8) Paul Michael Company 9) Material Things 10) Thurman’s Food Factory & Gifts 11) Vieux Carré Market 12) Pelican District 13) Haik Humble Eye Center 14) The Parlor House 15) M.D. Minerals 52 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

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FISHING with KENNY

What’s In A Line?

by KEN N Y C OV INGTO N

WHEN I STARTED BASS FISHING AS A KID, there were only two companies that I knew of that produced fishing line. One of them was Dupont Stren and the other was Berkley Trilene. Sure, years earlier your grandfather used the old nylon monofilament but when Stren introduced monofilament fishing line in 1959, little did they know how they would change the world of fishing.

One of the more popular discussion questions heard around tackle shops and tournament venues is, “What type or pound test line are you using for such and such technique?”

Now there are several types of fishing lines and, to add to the confusion, even more techniques in which to try to match the right application.

There are basically three types of fishing lines. There is the aforementioned monofilament, then you have braid and the newest of the fishing line family is fluorocarbon. Instead of two fishing line companies, there are now too many to mention, but some of the more popular are Suffix, P Line, Viscious, Stern, Berkley Trilene and the list goes on and on.

An interesting side bar concerning each company is that most all of them produce the trio of lines mentioned earlier. Competition for the consumer’s dollar is at an all-time high and brand loyalty is at a premium. Not wanting to 54 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

fall behind their competition, the companies realize this. Fishing has slowly but surely become as specialized a sport as golf. Like a golfer needs a specific club for a specific situation, the same is true for fishing lines.

Monofilament Monofilament has always been and probably will always be the first choice among recreational fishermen. The applications in which to use mono are endless and there is a wide variety of sizes to choose from. However, a local angler will generally only need a 12, 15 and 20 pound test.

For crankbaits and small topwater lures, I prefer to use 12 lb. test. Easily the more popular choices are those in the 14/15 lb. test category. It is effective in most all fishing applications. It can use it for throwing spinnerbaits, topwaters, Carolina rigs or flipping/pitching soft plastics into and around more sparse cover.

I use 20 lb. test when fishing heavier cover, bigger lures or if I am flipping or pitching in heavy cover areas. My rule of thumb has always been if the presentation is horizontal, such as topwater, spinnerbaits and crankbaits, the line size isn’t as critical as it is on a vertical presentation such as jig and worm fishing.

Braided Line The introduction of braided line changed the face of fishing but not to the extent that was originally planned. Introduced specifically for flipping and pitching lures into heavily covered and areas of matted grass, it soon became all the rage in the fishing industry. It didn’t take long before fishing fans discovered other tactical uses for braided line and companies struggled to keep up with the changing market. Now, braided line is more popular now because of its longevity.

While monofilament is across the board with its applications, braided line is more technique specific. It’s a very good choice when using frog presentations, topwater walking baits such as a Spook or Chug Bug and the aforementioned flipping and pitching. The more popular size braids are 6/20, 8/30 and 12/50. The first number is the line size diameter and the second will be your pound test.

Braid is not a good choice for using moving lures such as crankbaits and spinnerbaits due to the lack of stretch in the line. Often times the fish will tear a hole where the hook has penetrated, which results in lost fish.

However, if braid is your choice, it is recommended that a lighter action rod be used to help compensate the braided lines lack of stretch. If you prefer to use a medium heavy rod, consider going to a medium action.

Fluorocarbon The newest member of the fishing line community is also the most confusing. It has little to no visibility in the water, it’s very resistant to scraps and frays and has very little stretch making it very popular for techniques that require a hook set from a distance. The biggest draw backs to fluoro are that it will break if the proper knot isn’t used and it can be expensive.

On the pro tours, many fishermen prefer fluoro when throwing a deep diving crankbait.

Techniques such as drop shotting and Texas rig worm fishing are also very effective. Rat L Trap type of lures and bladed swim jigs, such as a Chatterbait, seem to have better results when used with fluorocarbon.

As you can see, the line choices are endless as are the questions that come with these choices. A little bit of trial and error in the beginning can make your next fishing trip one of a lifetime. Remember to be safe on the water and catch one for me! See you next month!

Bayou Pages

NIGHTSTANDS & COFFEE TABLES AVOIDING THE BEACH? AVOID THE BEACH READING

or whatever reason, July has proven to be a historic month throughout the decades. Man on the moon? July. The Founding Father sign the Declaration of Independence? July. In 2015, though, fall anniversaries of several major events that shaped the world of entertainment, tourism, and geopolitical politics. For those of us headed to the beach, the latest offerings from Danielle Steele may just get us by. But what about those of us who are avoiding the beach? Here are a trio of books to shape your view of events that shaped the world.

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70 Years Ago This Month...

Just as the sun rose over the New Mexico desert on the morning of July 16, 1945 a group of scientists sat hunkered behind a concrete blast wall, binoculars in hand, their eyes trained on the horizon. In a blinding flash of light, the world changed.

In The Making of the Atomic Bomb, Richard Rhodes tracks myriad scientific discoveries, intellectual challenges, and eccentric personalities that came together over the sixty-year march toward an atomic weapon. At times a dense scientific treatise and at others a psychologizing biography, Rhodes’s book has been hailed as one of the greatest works of science history in recent memory.

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RE VIEWS BY MIC HAEL DEVA ULT

-of the men and women who conspired to unleash the power of plutonium and harken in the Atomic Age. Clocking in at just under 900 pages, The Making of the Atomic Bomb is an exhaustive treatment of one of history’s most defining achievements.

died, with interviews from hundreds of individuals who knew Disney personally.

What emerges from this exhaustive record sheds light on the enigma that is Disney. For fans of Americana, this is a can’t-miss exploration of the life of one of the country’s touchstones.

Across the country, on the afternoon of July 17, 1955, millions of children and their parents across the United States crowded around their televisions to watch one of television’s most iconic moments--and a moment that would redefine the notion of tourism for the next century. In the hamlet of Anaheim, California, Walt Disney was about to cut the ribbon on his latest creation, Disneyland. But who was Walt Disney and how did he take a backyard attraction and transform it into the cultural, tourist, and entertainment juggernaut that it is today?

This is the story Michael Barrier tells in his definitive biography, The Animated Man: A Life of Walt Disney. Unlike other biographies of Disney, Barrier avoids the nostalgic haze of Disney’s near-perfect public persona while at the same time avoiding the speculation, sometimes scandalous, about Disney’s personal life. Instead, what Barrier presents is a complete picture of the man, as told by those who knew him.

Barrier sources material beginning in 1969, just a couple of years after Disney

To the world, they were the Fab Four, a frenzy-inducing quartet of mop-headed boys from Liverpool, England, who reduced even the staid British nobility to a fit.

But for one girl, just making her way in the vast expanse of America, they were family, and they were on the cusp of releasing some of the greatest Rock singles in history.

By July 28, with the release of their No. 1 U.S. single “Help!” the Beatles had cemented themselves into music history. But what of the untold stories--those memories of a young girl? Louise Harrison, sister of George, takes us inside the world of Beatlemania, as she chronicals her life in My Kid Brother’s Band: a.k.a. The Beatles! Tracing their rise in England, being made members of the British Empire for Elizabeth II’s birthday, to their ultimate end, Harrison lifts the veil on a personal Beatles, the boys she knew from life in Liverpool.

For the Beatles fan, this is the perfect view of a never-before-seen view of the Fab Four, and it makes a vital part of Beatles history.

Sixty Years Ago This Month...

50 Years Ago This Month...

“Making Business of Your Band” A Music Business Development Series presented by Tipitina’s Foundation Who: Musicians, filmmakers and those who work with digital media in Louisiana What: A series of workshops and one-on-one follow-up sessions to help musicians and filmmakers learn how to establish a sustaining business When: Wednesday, June 24; Wednesday, July 8; and Wednesday, July 22 Where: Tipitina’s Music Office Co-Op Monroe – 502 N. 2nd Street Phone: (318) 410-8081 Why: To give Louisiana residents who currently use music (or media) as a source of income, or are in the early stages of developing a business, a chance to establish a longlasting and viable business in the entertainment industry

With support from Louisiana Economic Development Small and Emerging Business Development Program and The Recording Academy, Tipitina’s Foundation presents the “Making Business of Your Band” Music Business Development Series through the Foundation’s Music Office Co-Ops. The series aims to provide education focused on establishing and sustaining viable businesses in the music industry. The program targets Louisiana residents who currently use music (or media) as a form of income, but have not yet taken steps to establish their business, or are in the early stages of business development. Workshops and meetings will be offered at Tipitina’s Music Office Co-Op locations across Louisiana in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Alexandria, Shreveport, and Monroe.

For more information or to register, contact Jimmie Bryant II at monroe@tipitinas.com or (318) 410-8081. Pre-registration is required. All classes begin at 6 PM at Tipitina's Music Office Co-Op at 502 N. 2nd Street.

To certify or find more information on the LED Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Program visit OpportunityLouisiana.com/SEBD.

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P H OTOG R A PH S BY MA RT IN G ME Y ER S

THE FAT PELICAN Monroe-raised chef, Chris McKnight, is bringing southern-inspired dishes to a delectable new level at his family-owned and operated restaurant, The Fat Pelican. Article by Samantha Evans.

“I’LL FEED THEM” CHRIS MCKNIGHT, OWNER AND Head Chef of The Fat Pelican, says to one of his wait staff around two o’clock on a hot Thursday in June. The slow, sleepiness of a Louisiana afternoon is finally creeping through the front doors of the usually bustling restaurant when a hungry party of three arrives for a late lunch. The kitchen, finally slowing down at the tail-end of a hectic lunch hour, roars back to life with steamy hisses and pungent scents that delight every nose in the vicinity. The

walk-ins, extremely thankful for a chance to grab a table at the increasingly popular restaurant, wait excitedly for “the food we’ve all been hearing about!”

The other few hopefuls that arrive when the kitchen is closed leave throwing verbal commitments for their returns for tonight’s dinner over their shoulder as they go.

“Oh we’ll be back,” one mother of two calls, “I have heard good rumors about this place! We’ll see y’all at dinnertime.”

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The rumors going around about the new restaurant – the ones about Chris McKnight knowing his way around the kitchen – are true. Each dish he prepares outshines the one before. The enticing fish and scallops demand attention from every person in the room – until the chicken arrives.

“Playing around and creating the menu has been such a fun experience” McKnight explains. “I just really like making food. Since I was a kid… I love cooking.”

McKnight learned how to create your next favorite meal from spending time in numerous different kitchens.

“I’ve worked everywhere in Monroe,” he jokes, “I love it. I learn something new every day. That is the best part of my job… I am constantly learning and trying new things.”

And his love for his work is evident in the dishes he prepares. “We decide each afternoon what the special for that night will be then we go and get it and make it, right then,” he says. Food is definitely his forte, which is one of the many reasons why he and his Fat Pelican are here to stay.

McKnight is not just serving fresh, local vegetables – he’s planning to grow them.

“We’ll have a small garden out back where you’ll actually be able to see where the vegetables on your plate are coming from. I might tell someone, ‘Hey, go pick out your own zucchini,” he laughs.

“A small garden may not supply everything we need but it will definitely help. It doesn’t get much more local than your own backyard,” McKnight says.

The McKnights currently buy all produce at local markets and only serve seafood caught in the Gulf of Mexico.

Transitioning from worker bee to boss has been interesting for McKnight as well.

“Hiring people is harder than you think,” he jokes.

The kitchen is his domain – having a number of years of experience and training and working under award-winning Chef Corey Bahr – and so he does his best to keep up with his wife, Mandi McKnight, who runs their business like “a well-oiled machine.”

Chef Chris McKnight serves delicious food made with fresh, local ingredients at The Fat Pelican in Monroe.

Pan-Roasted Flounder with Diver Scallops

Chef McKnight prepares daily specials and this dish combines fresh pan-roasted flounder, diver scallops, asparagus and creole tomatoes with a brown butter sauce.

Crème brûlée “I have another job, actually,” she says, “If I’m not there, I’m here, and vice versa.”

The McKnight’s dream of opening this restaurant have been accumulating for years.

Mandi did not want to open a restaurant that she could not completely dedicate herself to until her children graduated high school.

“I had to put my family first – I knew I couldn’t do this if I was worried about my kids all the time,” she explains.

Mandi, dubbed The Lady In Charge by her husband, designed the entire restaurant and renovation in one sitting. “Pinterest is amazing,” she gushes, “My husband, son and I sat up until four in the morning getting everything we wanted. Then finding a place for it. I picked these specific lights out that night.” The lights she refers to are the lowlights hanging from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the wooden floors.

She chose and personalized every decoration and piece of furniture in the building, from the color of the paint on the walls to the wooden finish on the tables. “I created this wall all on my own,” she says, pointing to the multicolored wooden partition that divides the dining room in the front from the kitchen in the back, “I’m so proud of how well it turned out.”

“Now I have my boss calling me from my restaurant telling me to come over and help out, because we’re getting too busy!” she laughs.

Drawing in bigger crowds, sometimes doubling in number from the day before, is

both good and bad for the McKnights.

“I’m tired,” the Head Chef laughs, “I expect we’ll be tired for a while.”

As McKnight sits down for the first time that day a cook asks, “What are we making tonight, boss?”

“What do you think we should cook?”

McKnight asks, genuinely interested in the feedback of his staff.

Two young cooks, still recovering from a busy lunch hour, pitch ideas about the dinner special for the evening ahead of them. The decision they are making this evening: the fresh fish of the day, pan seared tuna, with scallops or smoked duck. “We have duck – I always say we cook duck,” one cook argues while the other makes plans for a sauce to accompany the tuna.

“We’ll do both,” McKnight executively decides and the cooks rush off to the kitchen, forgetting their exhaustion in the excitement for the dinner rush ahead of them.

The fish and scallops, two forces expertly reckoned with, leave nothing to the imagination. All five senses will be on high alert the moment the plate lands in front of you. “It’s good,” the cook assures, “It’s pretty, too.”

The space – completely renovated – is pretty, too. The wooden walls, large windows and fireplace are reminiscent of the inside of a glamourous old ship.

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one of the delectable dessert options concocted in the kitchen. The Crème Brule, torched to perfection each time, is the perfect companion for any dish on the menu. Eat it to warm you up or choose one of their more summery options – like cheesecake – to cool you down.

The Fat Pelican gained an impressive following on Facebook weeks before they even officially opened their doors. Over 1,000 “likes” to the page in under two weeks helped push the restaurant name into the public.

The name itself is not easily forgotten. It is humorous, friendly and appropriate for a restaurant hailing from the Pelican state. “The Fat Pelican… that is from the mind of my wife,” McKnight says, referring to it as her “brainchild.” She named the restaurant after a band that once decorated the Monroe music scene.

The three word title strays from traditional family-owned establishments that use a last name as a business name as well. “It’s catchy,” McKnight says, “Everyone seems to like it so far.”

Everyone does seem to like it so far – but not just the name. With the door open less than a month, the restaurant has already received over twenty five-star ratings on Facebook. Social media is drastically changing the meaning 64 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

of “word of mouth” but word about The Fat Pelican is spreading.

“Every day we are busier than the day before,” Mandi proudly exclaims, “But I guess that’s a good thing!”

The restaurant is open but has not officially launched. “We’ll have a grand opening with ribbon cutting and all,” Mandi explains excitedly, imagining all the ways she and her husband can pull out the stops for the big event.

If reservations for your next event have not been made yet look no further than The Fat Pelican. The open room and natural light will quite literally brighten your day and the lowlights and ballroom feel will enchant your night.

When asked how he planned to integrate his different, high quality foods into the Northeast Louisiana culture he had only two words: “Baby steps.”

“I was born and raised in Monroe,” he says. He knows the ins and outs of Monroe dining and wants to increase the quality of life for his customers by offering them something they did not know they needed. “This is not necessarily New Orleans food, but we’re bringing that style and that feel to Monroe. I think we have needed something like this for

a long time.”

McKnight, wanting to use his incredible kitchen powers for good, created (and is creating still) a menu that offers something to everyone.

The menu spotlights chicken and duck and fish and The Pelican Burger, made with House ground beef, fully dressed on a house made roll and paired with hand-cut French fries. One waitress, who has been in business with a few other locally owned restaurants, said that the menu and McKnight’s cook staff continue to “blow [her] mind” each day as they introduce a new special.

“It’s amazing,” she gushes, sweeping her way from window to window, “You just can’t get this quality anywhere else.”

The Fat Pelican is located at 1810 Tower Drive and open for lunch from 11am-2pm and dinner 5pm10pm Tuesday through Saturday. Takeout is available during lunch hours. Just call 318-537-9030 to improve your day and add The Fat Pelican to your new weekly routine. Keep up with them on Facebook as “The Fat Pelican” and watch for the grand opening as it is sure to launch The Fat Pelican further into the spotlight.

Azure Pools and Spas

Your Local Pool Professionals

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ZURE POOLS AND SPAS HAS BEEN YOUR LOCAL pool professionals since 2006. In addition to selling liners, above ground and in ground pools, they offer a great selection of products and supplies to help take care of your pool all season long. Fully-stocked with reliable brands for your convenience, their knowledgeable staff can help answer all your pool-related questions. As a member of The Backyard Place, they provide quality products and dependable service to all of their customers.

Azure’s has a reputation for excellence and continuous service to the community with high-quality pool supplies and service.

There are so many products and technological advances in pool care these days, it can often be difficult to decide exactly what your pool requires. You can trust Azure Pools, to help you sort through unnecessary products and select exactly what you need.

Their experienced sales staff can help you by offering sound advice and assist you in making selections from their inventory of highquality items.

Azure Pools is the only exclusive Graphex Vinyl Pool Builder in Central Louisiana. Graphex Pools won’t rust, corrode, warp, dent or chip. A Graphex Pool stays strong and flexible for decades.

This pool carries a lifetime-transferrable warranty. Other exclusive lines that Azure carries are Hot Springs Spas and Jacuzzi, and they are the only authorized dealer in the Ark-La-Miss region!

As your Backyard Place, they carry a full line of reliable namebrand products, including Hayward, Polaris, Pentair and ProTeam, just to name a few. But it isn’t just pools and pool products that Azure specializes in. They also feature Primo Ceramic Grills, one of the most versatile outdoor cookers in the world and the only ceramic grills made in the USA. You can use it as a grill, an oven, a roaster, or a smoker with a simple adjustment to the air flow and cooking configuration.

In addition to offering products and service, Azure’s offers convenience with two locations! Serving North Louisiana and South Arkansas, Azure’s is located on Hwy 165 North in Monroe, as well as on Willow Glen in Ruston. Azure’s is locally owned and operated and is your one stop shop to get your backyard ready for warmer weather ahead!

HydraFacial™ Power Wash Your Skin

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

XFOLIATION. EVERY WOMAN KNOWS THIS IS THE removal of old dead skin cells on the skin’s surface. It makes your skin feel smooth and fresh and gives it a healthy glow. Regular exfoliation helps maintain healthy, younger looking skin. Most men (and a couple of my Lebanese aunts) exfoliate everyday with shaving cream and a razor, but the majority of women use gritty cleansers or medispa procedures like microdermabrasion to remove the dead cells.

HydraFacial™ is a new way to exfoliate using water instead of crystals. Consider microdermabrasion a sand blaster and HydraFacial™ a power washer – like microderm on steroids. HydraFacial™ is a multi-step procedure that includes not only cleansing and exfoliation, but also delivery of antioxidants and other essential nutrients to the skin once the dead cells are blasted away.

Exfoliation and cleansing is the first step, followed by a gentle acid peel that loosens dirt and debris from pores with minimal irritation. The next step is painless automated extractions using vortex suction to clean out pores. Finally, antioxidants and hyaluronic acid are applied to the exposed, healthy new skin to nourish, hydrate and protect it.

So HydraFacial™ does way more than just exfoliate. It is a resurfacing procedure that thoroughly cares for your skin, providing cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration while infusing antioxidants, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. Ranked above IPL, the HydraFacial™ is a noninvasive, non-surgical 30 minute procedure that delivers instant results with no discomfort or downtime. The procedure is soothing, moisturizing, non-irritating and immediately effective.

The HydraFacial™ is recommended for all skin types. It specifically targets common skin issues including sun damage, blackheads and whiteheads, enlarged pores, acne, brown spots, uneven skin tone, and early fine lines and wrinkles. The best part is it's not just a quick-fix procedure. The HydraFacial™ actually improves the quality of your skin, helping to make it healthy for the long term – especially if it is done on a regular basis.

While it can be done as often as every two weeks, we recommend every four to six weeks for most patients. It can even be alternated every other session with traditional microdermabrasion treatments if desired.

The treatments are done by my aesthetician, Natalie Green, who has over 15 years experience involving nearly every conceivable spa treatment.

Natalie did my treatment, and not only did my skin feel clean and smooth, but it felt even cleaner and smoother when she showed me all the suckedout blackheads and debris that were in the suction canister. (see photo).

So as the summer wears on and you sit at the ballpark feeling like you have a gallon of suncreen and half the red dirt on the infield clogging your pores, consider treating yourself to an exfoliating, hydrating, deep cleaning, soothing HydraFacial™. And get a HydraFacial™ gift certificate for someone you love. Call Mickel Plastic Surgery at 388-2050 today. Your skin will thank you for it.

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Vieux Carré Market

Gourmet Grocer, Deli, and Wine Shop

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ELCOME TO VIEUX CARRE Market – your one stop shop for wonderful wines, specialty food and cheeses in the Twin Cities.

Vieux Carré Market is a casual restaurant and specialty market. Lunch is served from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and dinner will be served on Fridays and Saturdays in the coming weeks. Come try the gumbo, Sammy’s grilled shrimp philly (a favorite) and fabulous steaks on the dinner menu. The mouthwatering wagyu beef burger served on a homemade brioche bun will leave you totally satisfied. Vieux Carré also has gluten free alternatives.

On the market side, enjoy the great selections of affordable wines. Vieux Carré Market has a vast assortment of craft beers, many of

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which you will not find anywhere else in the area.

In the cheese selection, enjoy products from the Cypress Grove Creamline such as Midnight Moon, Lambchopper and Humboldt Fog, as well as Sweet Grass Dairy favorites such as Thomasville Tomme and Green Hill plus many others.

The deli offers high quality meat and seafood choices. From salmon to halibut, and 1881 to Wagyu beef cut to your specifications, you will find what you are looking for. Try the homemade chicken salad or cheddar pimento cheese, and pair it with homemade bread made fresh daily (ciabatta, pita, baguette and brioche buns).

Vieux Carré Market also has a large salad bar blooming with freshness for you to eat in

or take out. Fresh organic peanuts are brought in to make fresh ground peanut butter on site.

The taste is incomparable. Come in and let Shane help you with wine, cheese and deli needs or have him build you an amazing gift basket. The deli stocks Sammy’s Grill house dressing, a Baton Rouge favorite, and serves it fresh on the salad bar.

Sammy Nagem of the well-known Sammy’s Grill in Baton Rouge (Highland, Prairieville, Central and Zachary) has made his home here for the last five years with his wife, Therese. Together, they opened Vieux Carré Market (formerly Vieux Carré Gourmet) with Therese’s family, who has deep ties to North Louisiana.

Come visit Vieux Carré Market today!

Outpatient Rehabilitation

Rehab Brings Hope to the Body, Mind and Soul

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N 2006, RAHIM ASHRAF RECEIVED shocking news of being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a crippling disease of the central nervous system caused by the body’s immune system attacking the protective covering of nerves within the brain. MS leads to disruption within the brain, and between the brain and the rest of the body.

Rahim describes his initial symptoms as “weakness” in his legs, along with changes in vision. “I was tripping a lot, and got really tired after walking short distances,” Rahim explained.

“I had been very active and used to working out, but walking became more and more difficult.”

Five years later, Rahim sought help. His symptoms now included weakness and coordination problems with his arms as well.

Upon arriving at St. Francis Outpatient

Rehabilitation, Rahim was evaluated and began Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy.

Physical therapy set forth with keeping Rahim as mobile as possible, while ensuring he stayed safe. Julee Winkler PT, Katie Johnson PTA, and the support staff worked with Rahim on balance, strengthening and gait training. The therapists worked to ensure that as his mobility declines, he remains as independent as possible.

Julee says, “I enjoy working with Rahim. He has a “go to work” attitude that helps him reach his goals.”

Occupational therapy works on fine motor skills, coordination, energy management and activities of daily living. Rahim’s treatment includes training to increase his abilities with activities like dressing, meal prep and hygiene.

“Rahim lives alone, so it was important to help him adapt ways to successfully and safely

Julee Winkler, PT, Stacy Weeks, SLP, and Katie Johnson, PTA, with Rahim during one of his therapy sessions.

complete functional tasks,” states Jill Woods, LOTR. “Mastering these skills is also a vital component of the patient’s psychological wellbeing.”

As Rahim’s MS progressed, it became necessary for him to begin Speech Therapy.

Stacy Weeks, SLP, found that Rahim had difficulty due to nasality, a condition that occurs with too little or too much air flow through the nasal cavity. With training, Rahim has made great strides in pronunciation and breath control.

Rahim sings the praises of everyone at St. Francis Outpatient Rehabilitation saying, “the wonderful people at St. Francis Rehab have been a blessing and a gift from God! They treated me like family, and have helped me relearn how to stand on my own feet. For that, I will always be grateful!”

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Red, White and Brew Pub Crawl

Monroe Renaissance Celebrates Independence Day

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ONROE RENAISSANCE IS celebrating Independence Day with a bang by presenting their bimonthly downtown pub-crawl on Saturday, July 4. The non-profit group, made of volunteers that are working to revitalize downtown, have coordinated a pub-crawl for that last year that has brought hundreds of visitors to downtown to visit pubs, bars and restaurants in downtown Monroe.

Participants check in at Bry Park, located at the corner of South Grand and Desiard Street. They will receive their pub passport, which will have a map and list of the participating locations, along with drink specials at each location. After mak-

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ing each stop and getting their passport stamped, pub-crawlers will drop off their completed passport at the last stop – Restaurant Cotton - for the chance to win prizes. Restaurant Cotton will also be a great viewing spot for the Star Spangled Spectacular Fireworks Show, presented by CenturyLink, which starts at dusk. Other sponsors of the fireworks show include The City of Monroe, The City of West Monroe, The Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Budweiser, Trapp’s, River and Rail Cantina, Scott Powerline, BayouLife Magazine, Plunk’s, Lamar and The Radio People.

The Downtown Pub-Crawl is a free event and participants must be 21 years of

age. Participants can also hop on the party bus for free transportation along the pubcrawl route. The participating locations are Enoch’s Irish Pub, Shananigan’s, Live Oaks, Neat, Restaurant Cotton and River & Rail Cantina. Local distributors – Marsala Beverage, Choice Brands and Glazer’s – will be on hand at each location to showcase some of their beer products, keeping in line with the “Red, White and Brew” theme.

For more information, find Monroe Renaissance on Facebook – facebook.com/MonroeRenaissance.

Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery Fearful No More: One Woman’s Journey to Health and Happiness

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AREN ENDSLEY GREW TIRED OF being afraid, so she made the conscious decision to start enjoying her life. She lost 91 pounds after the gastric sleeve procedure in 2013, and now, fear no longer controls her life.

“I got tired of being afraid: afraid of how I looked; afraid of how people perceived me; afraid of being alone due to my weight; and afraid the surgery would not work for me.

When I finally decided to have the surgery, I was able to take control of my life and not be afraid anymore.”

Karen also worried she would feel deprived and would miss food. Thankfully, she never experienced either. In fact, her choice to have surgery left her without any regrets.

“There hasn't been one moment in which I questioned whether I made the right decision.

Every moment since my surgery, I knew I made the right choice. I just wish I had done it sooner. I never had one regret—ever!”

A lifelong weight battle was the catalyst for her decision to undergo the gastric sleeve procedure at Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery.

“I struggled with my weight off and on my whole life. I gained a lot of weight during my husband's battle with terminal cancer.

And, working in a restaurant was bad for weight control. I continued to gain weight and just buy bigger and bigger clothes, thinking somehow things would magically change.”

Her surgery—now almost two years ago—did result in change.

Karen dealt with asthma her entire life.

Prior to the surgery, she used her inhaler four-

BEFORE

AFTER

five times per day. Now, she uses it once a week. She no longer suffers from reflux, and her blood pressure is considerably lower.

“There is so much I can do now that I could not do before. I struggled with walking and climbing stairs. Sleeping was also difficult; I wasn't able to get comfortable. I never felt like working out, and I was always tired.

I also felt guilty at holidays; I felt like everyone was watching everything I was eating, so the holidays weren't very enjoyable.”

With each weight loss goal she achieved, Karen was proud. And, her success inspired some of her friends to have the procedure.

“That was huge for me. I was happy to be a good example of success with this surgery.”

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MAN on the CORNER Salutes, A Savior & A Saxophone

THE

article by MEREDITH McKINNIE | photography by BRAD ARENDER

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learned the desire to stay alive. Donald knew his life was on the line, and insists “war will make you do stuff you wouldn’t normally do.” That kill or be killed mentality kicks in, and Donald realizes how lucky he is to be alive. Through long pauses and a few tears, he remembers that 60,000 men gave their lives in Vietnam, essentially the population of Monroe, his hometown. Every person he sees daily represents a life lost in that “place of death.” Anxious to return to the U.S., he proclaimed, “I’m gonna kiss the ground” when he got home. But before he returned, he had a sobering moment. One of his treats, having no TV, only radio for entertainment, arrived sporadically in the form of a tiny old copy of Jet Magazine. The highlight of each issue for the soldiers was the featured “Beauty of the Week.” While flipping through one issue from 1969, Donald took note of a picture taken outside an Atlanta City Hall with men on tanks challenging a peaceful African American demonstration. It dawned on Donald that those were the same tanks I’m over here fighting to he operated in this far removed war zone.

He said, “I’m over here fightmake these people free, ing to make these people free, and I’m not even free myself.” and I’m not free myself.

Donald documents the truth of his experience overseas in a Vietnam documentary by R2 Productions entitled Some Call Them Baby Killers, We and another in the Army. While on tour, Call Them Heroes. He and his wife visited the Donald learned to depend on his comrades Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington regardless of race, despite the turmoil of the D.C. The size of the wall, roughly three acres Civil Rights movement back home in the and hosting three million visitors a year reStates. minds everyone of the significant death toll.

The soldiers referred to the U.S. as “The But the memorial that most moved Donald World.” Even though they were fully aware was on a much smaller scale in Biloxi/Gulfthat Vietnam existed in the world, it was so port, Mississippi. He remembers not only far removed from what they knew and the are the names listed, but the pictures of the conditions there so inhumane and horrible, boys as well, some still in their high school they chose to think of it outside, almost like graduation caps, so young with so much poit didn’t exist in their idea of humanity. Pertential, just gone. haps this was a coping mechanism, as DonHaving returned home from the war in ald described the country of Vietnam as “a 1971, Donald was inevitably much more enplace of death.” He recalls the Vietnamese lightened about the state of the world and children following the soldiers in the jungle grasping to find his place in it. In 1975 his for food, and him wondering where their mother gave him a Bible. When he had been parents were and how they would find their wounded, his mother had asked him, “Son, way back home. And when they would deare you praying?” He wasn’t, didn’t have liver food, the women would eye the slop much use for God or even really believe in served as if it was the finest Christmas dinhim. But something changed him over there, ner. He felt sadness and appreciation for and his previous ways of smoking mariwhere he came from and was even more dejuana, drinking every day, playing dice and termined to make it home. blackjack, admittedly addicted to gambling, In basic training, the soldiers were the Lord began to convict his heart and he taught how to kill a person and in war, they mother’s porch, asking him to come outside and then arresting him. It was shortly after he was released that he enlisted in the Army, claiming “I didn’t join out of patriotism; I joined to be free.” A reevaluation of freedom would come later in Vietnam courtesy of a picture in Jet Magazine.

Serving as a MOS 11D10 armor reconnaissance specialist, Donald was injured one month into his tour with shrapnel to the back. He recalls lying face down while two doctors worked on him, joking around with each other while doing so, and within a month he was back on duty. It was 33 years later in a routine doctor’s visit that Donald was told that the metal was still in his back, and the Vietnam metal still resides there to this day. When he initially enlisted, Donald says he didn’t think about the war, just wanted to get out of Monroe. He didn’t have a fear of military service, a brother having served in the Marines, one in the Air Force,

“

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very morning and frequently in the evenings, the mellow, sultry, deep rich sounds of a saxophone waft across the intersection of 18th Street and Texas Avenue. The source of this musical treat for passersby is Donald Givens, a born and raised Monroe resident, a Vietnam veteran and purple heart recipient, a husband, a father, a grandfather and even a great grandfather, but most importantly to him, a man of faith and testimony. His story is common in that he was a wayward teen turned straight, but exemplary in that it was his determination, his emphasis on the “I can do it” mindset that has served him all these years. Perhaps he acquired that strength 8500 miles away in the jungles of Vietnam when he was only nineteen years old. Perhaps it was the day he was injured with shrapnel to the back just one month into his year tour overseas. Perhaps it was the day he returned and his mom put his first Bible in his hands, which he promptly read cover to cover. Perhaps he was born with a drive to succeed. Or perhaps it was the culmination of all of those or simply God’s plan for his life. Either way, his story is one of subtle awakenings by the Lord to lead him on the right path, and Mr. Givens, who only picked up the saxophone three years ago at the age of 62, credits his faith and the belief that anything is possible, at any age.

Donald Givens was born in 1950, the sixth child of fourteen, seven boys and seven girls. His mother was Mrs. Lizzie Dawkins, and his stepfather Mr. William Dawkins, a World War II Navy veteran, worked at a grocery warehouse during the day and operated a service station on the corner of DeSiard and Magnolia. On weekends, the service station would stay open all night, and Donald and his siblings would sometimes operate it so his stepfather could sleep.

It was during these evenings that local men would come into the station and share their stories. Donald claims he would hear many accounts of what not to do, though the lessons didn’t quite stick yet. He attended Carroll High School and was a self-proclaimed troublemaker, jailed three times by the time he was 18 years old, though later acquitted of all charges. He remembers vividly being at home after a fight with the neighborhood boys, and the policemen coming to his

saw this Bible as his answer. He said, “Lord, whatever you show me in this book, I’m gonna do.” In the first few books of the Bible, he could see his life. He quickly stopped drinking and gambling, but the marijuana and cigarettes were harder to let go. He constantly searched the scriptures for justification of his actions, all the while knowing “The Lord knew I was crazy.” He showed up at his mother’s house one afternoon with reddened eyes as a result of marijuana smoking and the Bible from his mother under his arm. His mother saw his state and snatched the Bible from him.

“When she took that Bible, it was like she took my heart,” he said. He went to his brother’s house, and immediately inside the front door in the corner was an emblem of Jesus Christ. He was convicted again, and his brother told him, “When you come to the 76 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

Lord, you have to come straight.” He quit smoking marijuana that day.

On April 22, 1975, Donald was smoking a cigarette outside the barbershop, counseling two teenagers on the dangers of marijuana. He told them God intended for their bodies to be temples, and smoking was defiling the temple. One of the boys pointed to Donald’s hypocritical cigarette between his fingers. He looked down, said “You’re right,” thumped it out and never smoked again. He claims the Holy Spirit spoke to him saying, “If you’re going to tell people how to live, you have to do it yourself.” The smoking ads in those days, boasting, “I’ll walk a mile for a Camel,” were the truth.

Nicotine was Donald’s hardest hurdle. Now, he and his wife Ruth host seminars to help people quit; knowing the personal struggle helps.

Donald had known his wife Ruth since childhood, having always run the streets with her brothers, calling themselves “The Block Boys.” They began dating before he enlisted. Though many boys married quickly before deployment, Donald didn’t want a “Dear John” letter, so he waited. The couple finally married in 1974. Donald was determined to break that common law cycle. The ceremony took place in a small Presbyterian church in Cincinnati, Ohio, where the couple lived for a year. When asked why only a year, Ruth piped in that, “I wanted to come back home because it was cold. That wasn’t my type of living.” Donald remembers as a child, being obsessed with The Wizard of Oz. Not having the benefit of DVR or DVD, the parents would yell outside that the movie was on, and all the neighborhood kids would run to the nearest TV. Donald said at

that time, he didn’t realize the significance of the scene when Dorothy clicks her red slippers together, but Vietnam and Cincinnati taught him, “There’s no place like home.”

The couple has one daughter, Sonja, a nurse, three grandchildren, one great grandchild and one on the way, due December 24th, an early Christmas present. Donald tried his best to be a good dad, always the disciplinarian. Ruth called him strict, since “back then you could whoop kids.” He taught Sonja to drive a standard, and when she was eight, he would take her for piano lessons. Rather than just sit back, Donald decided to take the lessons as well. Like Donald, the seventy year old piano teacher was strict, often rapping his hands with a ruler when he made a mistake. He and his daughter were instructed to practice thirty minutes a night, though she would watch the clock the entire time. But Donald would play for hours, attempt music beyond his level of learning. He believed he could, so he did.

When he was 62 years old, he heard a man play the saxophone at a church in Minden. It piqued his interest, and he bought a used sax from a local pawn shop for $150. Not knowing anything about the instrument, he blew in the mouthpiece, and nothing happened. Only later did he learn he needed a reed. He turned to Mr. David Butler in Ruston for lessons, Butler having played with the likes of James Brown and Percy Sledge over the years. Donald picked up quick because of his background reading music in piano. He also recently picked up the guitar, taking guitar lessons on Wednesdays and sax lessons on Fridays.

He wants to inspire the young people at church. He believes “people are against themselves.” They don’t think they can, so they don’t. Accomplishing something is more about mindset than ability. It’s not always the fastest guy that wins the race.

A man approached Donald after hearing him play at the intersection under the gazebo and asked him to play his wedding in downtown Monroe. Donald asked if he could bring 7-8 people because no one would ever believe it. He didn’t want to charge the man because he was so honored to be asked to play. The man insisted, but Donald’s sentiment remains the same. An elderly lady acknowledges Donald for encouraging her to finish her real estate license, saying whenever she thought about giving up, she pictured the man on the corner playing the sax and kept going.

One can find Donald in the mornings at 7:30 and the evenings at 4:30, playing about two hours each trip under the gazebo right off his backyard. He says he started playing in the house. Then he got a little better and moved to the driveway. Then he got even better and moved to the gazebo. He is so religious in his visits, Ruth claims if he misses a day for whatever reason, people come knocking to see if he’s sick. People assume he is there to entertain them, but he does it more for his own pleasure. His faith and determination have both served him and fulfilled him. He is an inspiration to the youth he strives to motivate and to random passersby daily on the street. Before I left, without hesitation, he got out his small saxophone, strapped it around his neck and played Summertime. As his cheeks puffed up as he blew with all his might, I could see the peace and fulfillment spread across his face, waft across the room and envelop me in the classic melody. Donald Givens has found his place in the world.

A few words From Mr. Donald Givens: “I’d like to give a shout of praise to the millions of men and women who serve and have served in the US Armed Forces and salute you for the sacrifices you’ve made both here and abroad.”

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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Who Do You Aspire to Be?

The Next Generation of Eyewear

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SPIRE EYEWEAR WAS CREATED TO PROVIDE TODAY’S individualized consumers with the next generation accessory that addresses trends related to both innovative technology and materials. It is eyewear that is transformational and transitional, it defines the personality of the wearer and achieves this with an incredible ‘barely there’ weightlessness, comfort and wearability, the true connectivity of form and function.

Aspire has 12 optical styles available in three colors each, including six women’s optical styles and 6 men’s optical styles that offer some crossover. Targeted toward women who desire sleek boutique styling, each frame has a highly polished flat front designed in a variety of colorations. Three sun styles in traditional shapes including cat eye, aviator and navigator, are also available in the collection.

Aspire was designed using 3D technology prior to prototyping and constructed from a thin and lightweight proprietary “memory plastic” material. According to the company, the frames are almost 50 percent lighter than regular plastic frames and 22 percent lighter than typical titanium frames. At 2.25 mm thick, styles are also almost 50

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percent thinner than typical acetate frames. The collection also features a proprietary adjustable nose pad system and screwless hinges.

Aspire Eyewear is found exclusively at Mercedes Optical located in the lobby of The Eye Clinic of Monroe on Mercedes Drive. Our regular hours of operation are Monday - Thursday from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., and Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., or by appointment. John Moore, an ABO certified optician with over 40 years of experience, is available on site to assist you.

At Mercedes Optical, we take pride in our commitment to guarantee our patients convenience, satisfaction, and top quality. Along with Aspire, we carry a large selection of frames and the latest styles of sun wear. You'll find beautiful, stylish frame collections such as Jessica McClintock, Guess, Calvin Klein, Elle, Ellen Tracy, Catherine Deneuve, Charmant and many others. We also have sun wear available from Cocoons, Nautica, Cole Haan, Calvin Klein and Guess.

To learn more about Aspire, call Mercedes Optical at 318.329.9666 and speak to John Moore.

3D Mammography Now at Delhi Hospital

More Detail. Earlier Cancer Detection.

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“

F ONLY WE COULD HAVE CAUGHT it sooner.” Have you ever had the terrible experience of hearing these words? Or had a mother, a sister, a daughter, a friend - who found their breast cancer just a stage too late?

The American Cancer Society estimates that one in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime and the medical experts all agree that the stage at which breast cancer is detected greatly influences a woman’s chance of survival. If detected early, statistics now show the five-year survival rate is 98 percent.

Delhi Hospital is pleased to be the first healthcare provider in the region to offer 3D mammography: an innovative technology that allows us to detect breast cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage. Also known as breast tomosynthesis, 3D mammography

finds 40 percent more invasive cancers compared to the conventional 2D mammography alone.

Breast cancer has nowhere to hide with this latest state-of-the art screening tool.

While traditional 2D Mammography provides a limited, two-dimensional image of the breast, 3D Mammography allows radiologists to view the breast in 15 sets of high resolution, 1 mm slices. This virtually eliminates detection challenges associated with overlapping tissues that can reduce the effectiveness of conventional 2D Mammography.

With this process, physicians can now see the part of the breast we are most concerned about with exceptional clarity. Dense tissues and areas of distortion become more evident and are no longer hidden by the overlapping

tissue found above and below.

Think of the pages in a book. When you look down at the cover you cannot see all of the pages, but if you open it up you can go through the entire book page-by-page to see everything in great detail. 3D Mammography is designed with this same concept in mind.

If you could see your future, would you change it? Now you can- at Delhi Hospital.

The only healthcare provider in the region offering the life saving technology of 3D Mammography is taking the lead in the fight against breast cancer. To learn more about how you can detect cancer at its earliest stage, visit www.delhihospital.com or by calling (318) 878-5171.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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Alumni, Family and Friends Plan Reception New St. Frederick Principal Will be Honored on September 3

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FTER SERVING AS THE SUPERINTENDENT OF THE Ouachita Parish School System for the last 14 years, Dr. Bob Webber has been named the new principal at St. Frederick.

“We are excited about having someone with Dr. Webber’s credentials joining the St. Frederick family. His experience and leadership success will help us continue the growth and advancement of St. Frederick Catholic High School,” said Sr. Carol Shively, Diocesan Superintendent of Schools.

“We believe that hiring Dr. Webber demonstrates our commitment to raising the standards to even higher levels at St. Frederick. Dr. Webber has the leadership and team building skills to help St. Frederick fully implement the STREAM integrated curriculum,” said Judge Wendell Manning, Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Webber said he had the pleasure of interviewing this year’s St. Frederick graduating seniors. “I was impressed with their individual achievements. I asked each of them what they liked about St. Frederick and why someone should consider coming to St. Frederick. They had some of the same reasons like individual attention, extracurricular op-

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New St. Frederick principal Dr. Bob Webber

portunities but all of them said that they were part of one family at St. Frederick,” Webber said.

Webber said, ”I’m excited about the opportunity to be a part of the Saint Frederick family that puts Jesus Christ first. The addition of Director of Admissions and Counseling Shere May, Director of our STREAM Curriculum Blair David, and new head baseball coach Joey Lee, makes an already great staff even better. Our goal is to make SFHS the best college preparation school in the state.”

Prior to being named Superintendent, Webber served as Principal of Ouachita Junior High School and as Assistant Principal of Ouachita Parish High School. He also served as a teacher and coach of Ouachita Junior High and Ouachita High Schools.

Webber is actively involved in service to the community. He served as Chairman of the United Way of Northeast Louisiana, Fall Roundup Chairman of Boys Scouts of America, Louisiana Purchase Council, Board of Directors of the Chennault Aviation Museum, Board of Directors of the Glenwood Regional Medical Center and the Board of Directors of the Big Brothers-Big Sisters as well as many other organizations.

Physical Therapy

Transforming Your Motion and Mobility

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F YOU ARE IN PAIN OR HAVE SUFFERED A RECENT INJURY, we know what’s on your mind: returning to play, returning to work and returning to life as quickly as possible. Dan Wood Physical Therapy's innovative and personalized approach to rehabilitation—which we've been developing since we opened our first clinic in 2000—combines manual therapy, injury-prevention education and the active involvement of you, the patient. Our highly qualified team of physical therapists bring a combined experience of over 45 years, specializing in orthopedics, work-related injuries, personal injuries and pre and post rehabilitation.

Elizabeth Wagner, PT, DPT, recently joined our team in Monroe bringing 8 years of experience in specialized techniques such as Manual Therapy and Grastons Technique for the treatment of pain and movement restrictions. Her goal is to get you back to what you enjoy without limitations.

Dan Wood Physical Therapy is the first clinic in the area to use the Dry Needling Technique to treat a variety of problems including: acute/chronic injuries, headaches, neck/back pain, tendinitis, muscle spasms, "Sciatica," hip/knee pain, muscle strains, fibromyalgia, tennis/golfer's elbow and overuse injuries. This technique is unequalled in finding and eliminating neuromuscular dysfunction that leads to pain and functional deficits.

Completing our comprehensive approach, our Occupational Therapists have over 65 years experience, focusing on the small motor functions of the hand and upper extremities, as well as neurological and pediatric conditions that effect activities of daily living. Our primary goal is to help our patients regain their strength, increase their confidence and ultimately help them realize their full potential.

Expanding into wellness in 2006, with the addition of The Fitness Lodge, Dan Wood Physical Therapy is able to offer aquatic therapy, aftercare treatment, SilverSneakers, cardio and weight programs and group exercise classes. We also offer the Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program, which is a medically supervised program that sees an average weight loss of 2 to 5 pounds per week.

Whether recovering from injury, learning how to prevent future or recurring injuries or enhancing overall fitness, we can offer care that is personalized to fit your needs.

With the ever changing healthcare environment, we strive to meet the needs of our therapy patients and our wellness clients.

We respect your time, your financial resources and your physical being by restoring your quality of life as quickly as possible With three convenient locations, in Monroe, Bastrop and Oak Grove, we are able to present our patients with a well-rounded program of rehabilitation, education, prevention and fitness.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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BAYOUOUTDOORS

DAD AND MOM EMBRACING THE ONES YOU LOVE article by Dan Chason

2014 was a rough year for me. With the demands of work, kids, grandkids and of course, my hobbies, it was a run and gun year. All of that was compounded in April when my Dad, Rev. R.L. Chason unexpectedly passed away. My Mom, Mozelle, his wife of 57 years just could not get over his passing. She suddenly died in August. I lost both of my parents within 120 days of each other. With their passing went many desires to do anything. I have been an outdoor writer for over 25 years and that inspiration left, as well, for quite some time. I think it had something to do with my Mom calling to tell me she had read my latest article and how she would go on and on about how proud she was to read it. Either way, it has been a struggle to find the motivation to be expressive. If you will pardon me this month, I will give you some insight into the two people who molded me into who I am today.

I developed my love of the outdoors solely due to the time I spent hunting and fishing with my Dad. He was a fixture in my life and I never for one second figured he would pass away so suddenly. He never had any major health problems and had passed his latest physical with flying colors. I always figured that Mom would go first as she battled various afflictions for as long as I could remember. My Dad was a minister and was called to preach at the young age of 16. He was a gentle giant with a quite approach and mannerism. The only time I ever heard him raise his voice was when he preached. But when he gave us any direction or orders, I assure you that his children responded. We respected him with a respect that is earned, not demanded. I can remember many a day when my Dad would drive into our driveway, peel off his suit coat, hang it on the door of the car and grab a basketball to shoot some hoops. He taught me to love God, respect others, respect myself and to respect the animals that we pursued when hunting. He brought this truth home to me at the young age of 13. I loved to bird hunt with my pellet rifle I had bought from hours of cutting lawns. I remember one hunt when I grabbed my Dad's hunting vest and went after cedar waxwings. I snuck up on this huge cedar tree and laid on the ground. Shot after shot, I dropped birds and placed them in that vest. I counted 14 when I was done. I could not have been more proud.

I rode my bicycle home as I could not wait to show my Daddy. He 82 JULY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

walked out and watched as I unloaded bird after bird. I can still smell the fried chicken Mama was cooking. "That's pretty good, son," said my Dad. "I just wonder how them are gonna taste." Those were the last cedar waxwings I ever shot as my Dad made me clean, cook and eat every one of them while the rest of the family had Mama's fried chicken. "The Bible says only a lazy man won't clean what he kills. We don't kill animals just for fun. If you kill it, you eat it." Lesson learned, Dad. He loved to squirrel hunt. I learned the hard way that if you didn't walk softly, you would find yourself hunting alone. Dad loved to stalk squirrels but my big feet and inattentiveness to being quiet was always my downfall. It was the same with fishing. Dad rarely talked when he fished. He would concentrate so hard you could almost feel it. And if you bumped the boat or made any noise, you would get the "look" that told you not to do that anymore. To this day, I am the same way. You make noise in my boat and you got to go.

My Mom rarely did anything outside of the home. She was a published writer and the very person who taught me the love of expressing yourself in writing. She praised my attempts at poetry or short stories even if my final product wasn't that inspiring. I remember as a child, Mom decided to volunteer as a teacher's aide at my school....without telling me. Imagine my surprise when I walked into class to find my Mother sitting up front. Then it got worse.

The teacher became ill and my Mom inherited the class as my English teacher for the rest of the semester. It just so happened that this was my fourth grade year and Spelling was a huge focus. I remember sitting at the dining room table and attempting to complete my Spelling homework. Mom stood behind me with a fly swatter and if I spelled something wrong, I became the fly. It didn't take but two weeks and my "C" in Spelling became an "A+." I guess hard heads need reinforcement.

Most people who come to my camp or spend any length of time around me know that I enjoy cooking. My wife says I enjoy it too much, cook too much in quantity and cook everything you should not eat. What is not known that I learned to cook from my Dad. Dad always said, "Now son, when you get grown and married, your wife isn't always gonna want to cook". He was right. I am world renowned for my tomato red

eye gravy but I will have to give the honors to my Dad. It is his recipe.

I never realized, when they were alive, just how integral a part that parents play in your life. My parents only recently relocated to Monroe in December of 2013 after being at least 4 hours away for most of my adult life. I spoke to them often. Dad was always asking about fishing or hunting and Mom always asked about kids and work. That is one thing that I miss the most. That phone call from Mom on my birthday or that call from Dad just to check on me. Dad was funny on the phone. When he was done talking he never said goodbye. He just hung up. It aggravated me for many years but became a topic to pick at him about as he got older.

Dad loved practical jokes and I remember his hearty laugh and the way he always looked at the glass as half full. I rarely saw him when he wasn't happy and my Mom was the reason. When the two of them were together, it was magic. They truly loved each other.

One story they shared was when we lived in Meridian, Mississippi.

Dad had found a boat that he wanted to buy for the large sum of $300.

The bank would not loan the money without Mom's signature. Dad's salary at the time was a whopping $75/week as a full time minister with three children. Mom refused to sign the note. She paid the bills and just could not see the need to buy a boat, even though Dad insisted. Mom said that night, she would almost go to sleep and Dad would poke her in the side and she would wake up. "You gonna sign it?" Again, she would refuse, roll over and get poked once more. This went on most of the night until Mom said she got up at 4:00 a.m. and signed the papers so she could sleep. That was typical Dad. But the one thing that Bob Chason was most noted for was his lack of mechanical ability. I remember one time Dad has fixed our trailer hitch.

He had rigged only one chain for a safety chain. Halfway to the lake, our "fixed" hitch came off and our boat started passing us on the road. Dad slammed on the brakes, the one chain grabbed and the boat peeled our old Ford from the rear quarter panel to the front door. Then Dad decided he wanted a big river anchor. This boat was wooden and old. Dad had a welder take a 6 inch pipe and put spikes all around it so it would hold in the river current below the spillway. Day one was an eye opener and a wave hit the front of the boat as we motored up river and slammed the spikes through the boat. It is a miracle we all didn't drown. But Dad "fixed" it again with Bondo and the next day we tried to go again. I say try, as the Bondo didn't hold and again, we had to use fingers and toes to cover holes are we raced for the bank.

So, many of my outdoor memories come from the times I spent afield with my Dad. I owe my knowledge, love and passion for the outdoors to him. But Mom was always there with an understanding ear and compassionate heart to let us go spend that quality time with him. I will miss them both greatly and encourage all of you to embrace the ones you love....while you still have them.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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Rehydrate. Rejuvenate.

Reinvigorate.

Elements Brings a New and Unique Experience for Monroe

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N MAY 26TH, 2015, ELEMENTS opened to the public bringing the most unique experience to the Monroe area. “It is like enjoying the hospitality and beauty of a hotel and spa without having to travel,� says owner PriscillaTess Wilkins. Elements offers IV Infusion therapy, oxygen therapy, Hydration Station and infrared light therapy. Along with these treatments, Elements features a beautiful lobby which welcomes guests to enjoy their treatments in a social setting. Whether by themselves or with friends or co-workers, private rooms provide the perfect get-away. If clients do not have time for a session or they just need a few minutes to take a break from their busy day, clients are welcome to come and enjoy one of the specialty coffees and

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one of the delicious baked confections by Butter, a Louisiana bakery. Each week, there is a different selection of coffees and treats.

The treatments offer a variety of benefits. Hungover? Have a Migraine? Try an IV Infusion and feel back to normal in 30 minutes. These infusions are also great for the athlete to prepare for a sporting event and aid in maximum performance or to recuperate from the competition or vigorous training. Getting over a nasty bug has never been as easy and fast; just start an infusion, sit back and feel better. Oxygen is the best natural relaxant available and is a wonderful way to distress after a busy day. It also aids in concentration levels and retention rates for the student who is cramming for that big exam. The Hydration Station is a personal

massaging sauna which leaves your skin baby soft and rehydrated. The Beauty Angel emits infrared light to cause the skin to produce collegan and elastin at very high rates leaving the skin supple, glowing and gorgeous. Multiple sessions lead to the disappearnce of scars, stretch marks, wrinkles and cellulite. The vibrating plate in the floor goes to work on toning the core muscles from the waist down!

Elements is having a grand opening celebration on July 25 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and invites everyone to come discover the new and unique aspects of Elements.

An Animal Called GERD More Than Just a Tummy Ache?

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OST INFANTS EXPERIENCE spitting up and teens may burp, have an achy stomach or light heartburn, and most times this means nothing. But for some infants and teens (approximately 5-8% of adolescents) that experience acid reflux regularly, there may be a more severe problem called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or that animal we call GERD. This malfunction of the muscle of the valve at the lower end of the esophagus allows acid from the stomach to escape into the esophagus causing reflux. Without appropriate treatment this constant acid release could cause significant damage.

When this GERD animal rears its ugly head with symptoms like weight loss, bleeding, respiratory problems or esophagitis, it’s time to take notice and look for gastroenterological

support. With proper treatment, children and teens with GERD can enjoy active lives. Many infants grow out of this by their first birthday.

Symptoms to look for: Spitting up, burping, achy stomach, heartburn, weight loss/no weight gain, poor appetite, crying or irritability, regurgitation and persistent cough.

How did the GERD animal attack your child?

Here are a few possible reasons: • GERD sometimes runs in families • Children with asthma are more likely to have GERD • Chances of GERD increases when kids intake too much chocolate, carbonated drinks, tomato products, peppermint, and other

acidic foods like citrus juices, fried foods and spicy foods • Obesity or overeating aggravates GERD

What can you do to treat your child’s GERD animal?

Your physician will provide treatment instructions. However, there are some things you can do to lessen some of your child’s symptoms: • reduce a chance of reflux by thickening your baby’s milk or formula with rice cereal • raise your child’s bed 30 degrees • serve smaller meals more frequently • serve meals earlier with plenty of time before bedtime • encourage weight loss and exercise • avoid serving foods that create reflux for your child • schedule a visit with a pediatric gastroenterologist to determine the best treatment plan.

GI Associates is a certified endoscopy facility with a staff of board-certified physicians highly trained in gastroenterology for adult and pediatric patients. Contact GI Associates at 601.355.1234 to request a pediatric gastroenterologist to care for your child.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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ne

THE

ARTIST

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M. Douglas Walton reflects about his time in Nepal after the devasting earthquake hit. What he discovered was a country clinging to hope and happiness to be alive.

Photographs by Martin G Meyers Article by Marlen Waters

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icture a man, sitting in his studio--an idyllic, secluded spot in the Lincoln Parish woods. You would never believe that M. Douglas Walton of Ruston experienced and survived the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that hit the South Asian country of Nepal on April 25. For five days, Walton, his art touring group of 13 other artists and their guide were stranded in a mountain village with little food or water and no amenities. Included in the group were Monroe residents Jan Quiett, Susan and Rudy Miksa.

Walton’s group of nine Americans and five Canadians was on an art tour to Dubai, Nepal and Tibet. They’d spent several days in Dubai and three weeks in Nepal when the earthquake hit. “We were really excited about going to Tibet,” Walton said. Jan Quiett of Monroe had just joined the group two days before just for the experience of seeing Tibet. It was sunny and about 80°F and the time was shortly before noon. They had just enjoyed a nice Nepalese meal of rice, greens, tomato and potato-based curry. At the border, all tourists must walk over the “Friendship Bridge” marking the boundary between Nepal and China in order to transfer to a Chinese bus. They were about to walk across the Friendship Bridge connecting Nepal and Tibet as the earth began to shake.

“We were outside looking at our luggage when the earthquake started,” Walton said. “It happened so fast I don’t think we were really scared. We just knew we had to get out of the way. It was the villagers who basically pushed us to the other side of the road,” Walton said. The other side of the mountain road was a sheer drop off.

At first, the group thought it was a rockslide. Then they felt the aftershocks.

“It’s a sound you’ve never heard before, but you were basically being pushed out

of the way. Your whole entire focus was getting out of the road.” Truck-sized boulders crashed down from the hills, flattening two buses in front of the one reserved for Walton’s group. “But not one rock hit any of our luggage,” Walton said.

The quake had two epicenters, one near Katmandu, about 50 miles away from the tour group, and another where the tour group was on the Araniko Highway. When the earth stilled, the group — along with thousands of other quake refugees — walked slightly more than a mile to a flatter, safe location. By late afternoon the area was filled with an estimated 5,000 villagers from the surrounding area. The only shelter for the 5,000 people was make-shift tents of tarpaulins stretched over ropes. The group was separated into many “tents.” Not really knowing at the time how the rest of the group was doing. Rice and dhal (lentil stew) were cooked in large vats and they lined up to receive a tin plate full. As “guests” they were encouraged to go to the front of the line and received a spoon to go with their food. The Nepalese prefer to eat this kind of food by mixing it on their plate and then eating it with their fingers.

Suddenly Walton’s cell phone rang.

His was the only phone among the thousands in the tarp city that had service.

Walton and the rest of the group were able to let friends and family know the group was safe, and uninjured. Then began the four days of silence with the outside world. On the other side of the world, family members and friends began the task of notifying American government officials of their predicament.

The first night came. “It was raining, 40 degrees and pitch black,” Walton said.

“Then the mountain across the way collapsed. The sound was the loudest sound I had ever heard in my life,” Walton said.

That first night was hard, Walton said, “but by the next morning, the sun came

up and we just knew it was going to be okay.”

On day two, the guide found shelter in a newer house that was made of reinforced concrete and on a nearby hill. “We ended up getting the bedroom,” Walton said. All 15 travelers slept in the same room and they had access to an indoor squat toilet. They had no electricity. Their food was about one-and-a-half cups of rice per day. Water remained a huge concern. According to Walton, one of the more memorable meals that their guide was able to forage was “a couple of ounces of beer and a handful of cheese puffs.” The group would end up staying in the house four nights and five days.

According to tour member Barbara Lea of Ontario, Canada, “Our tour leader, Janaki Parajuli of NEC Tours, a long established Nepali tour operator, accompanied us at all times and ensured that every aspect of our travel, accommodation, food and access to medical help were met. His proficiency was truly tested during the earthquake and aftermath when he managed to keep us safe, fed, and sheltered and ultimately, safely back to Kathmandu.”

“From there it became an adventure of drawing, of exploring, of seeing the joy in the children,” Walton said. The Nepalese children are a curious and happy bunch, and crowded around as the artists began to draw and drew happily when invited to. They can write their names in Nepalese script and in English from a young age and they were very well behaved. “I was always in the moment,” Walton said. “When you draw you spend time studying and experiencing your surroundings not just quickly taking photographs. By exploring, you got to meet the people. It became an opportunity otherwise you would never have.”

What he discovered was Nepalis stripped of much of what they had

FROM THERE IT BECAME AN ADVENTURE OF DRAWING, OF EXPLORING,

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owned, yet happy and glad to be alive.

On the fourth day, six of the group were helicoptered out. Evacuating the people in the tarp city was a slow, monumental task, Walton said, partly because the only helicopters that could land initially held only three people. The next day when the rest of the group left, the children gave them roses.

The group was taken to a small mountain village. “It was as if we were transported into ‘The Sound of Music,’” Walton said, referring to the scene in the movie where the Von Trapp family escapes into the Alps, leaving their native Austria. “On our mountaintop, the children gave us a concert of music that became an unbelievable experience,” Walton said. The two-hour performance included folk music in the Nepali native language and in English, he said. “They got the adults to do chanting, then they decided we should all dance. This is the middle of their despair. They’re village was gone, but they had no sense of sadness,” Walton said.

After several days, all of the tour group made its way back to Katmandu — being separated, riding another helicopter, walking through barbed wire, down a steep embankment, through rice fields and over slippery steps and crowding into a Jeep with all their luggage.

Two of the group returned home to the states. Walton and the remaining artists decided to go back to the same places they had drawn just days before the quake and draw what remained.

That gave Walton and his 11 remaining students “time to digest, time to process, to understand,” he said.

In an email Walton sent to his friends and students from the Hotel Vashali in Kathmandu: It has been greatly important to each of us that we have stayed on in Nepal. The last few days have brought closure to each of us in meaningful ways. The drawings have gained a level of emotion and spirit that elevates the compositions to a level of greatness. My own drawings are the most significant of my career.

The group spent six days drawing and exploring the city. They discovered only part of the city was damaged, and

much of what was destroyed were the old, historic temples and buildings they had seen intact just days before. Walton realized he and his students were the last people in history to draw the some of the historic sites. “So their drawings are of monumental importance,” In addition to his more than 450 drawings, each of the students did between 200-300 drawings each, he said. Walton plans to turn some of his sketches into large paintings (some as large as 15 feet) along with paintings from his students into an exhibition that will highlight the story of this faith filled nation and bring attention to the plight that they will face for years to come.

This devastating earthquake killed more than 8,800 people and injured more than 23,000. Hundreds of thousands of people were made homeless with entire villages flattened, across many districts of the country. Centuries-old buildings were destroyed at UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley.

About 90 percent of soldiers from the Nepalese Army were sent to the stricken

areas in the aftermath of the earthquake, with volunteers mobilized from other parts of the country. Rainfall and aftershocks were factors complicating the rescue efforts, with potential secondary effects like additional landslides and further building collapses being concerns.

Impassable roads and damaged communications infrastructure posed substantial challenges to rescue efforts. Survivors were found up to a week after the earthquake. Repair estimates are $160 million to restore 1,000 damaged and destroyed monasteries, temples, historic houses and shrines across the country.

“After this experience, one’s approach to the understanding of life has been forever altered. … When you have nothing, that’s when you understand that, in reality, you have everything. I see life with a clarity I did not see before,” Walton said. “We had nothing, but we had everything. You had to let go. You had to have complete belief that what you needed would be provided.”

M Douglas Walton sketching in Nepal

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Ellie looks like the all-American girl in this firecracker red zippered tank and white skinny jean. Gold jewelry and nude wedges complete this great summer look. William looks patriotic in this American flag tee by Rowdy Gentleman. Pair it with a Pelican District hat and jean for 4th of July festivities. Find these great looks and more at Pelican District in Monroe.

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Relax in Our Tempur-Pedic Sleep Experience Center

Fall in Love with Your Mattress at Sleepy Hollow Furniture

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MAGINE RELAXING ON THE MOST highly recommended bed in America, a Tempur-Pedic mattress, in an undisturbed, tranquil setting.

You will fall in love once you try out our Tempur-Pedic Sleep Experience Center®. This 6-minute interactive “tour” allows you to truly relax and experience the benefits of a Tempur-Pedic mattress in a unique bedroom environment Sleepy Hollow Furniture has the area's only Tempur-Pedic™ Sleep Experience Center. North Louisiana’s largest and most experienced, pessure-relieving Swedish mattress showroom! Shop pressure-free six days a week!

Sleepy Hollow Furniture is located in the heart of Monroe and offers every model of Tempur-Pedic and has the largest selec-

tion and stock of Tempur-Pedic mattresses on display in the area!

We are the area's prestigious elite retailer for Tempur-Pedic products!

Our experienced and knowledgeable staff is ready for you "to come take a nap" and allow you to explore all of the options available with Tempur-Pedic. You will fall in love once you try out our Tempur-Pedic Sleep Experience Center®.

Tempur® pressure-relieving material is a breakthrough in sleep technology that has forever changed the way millions sleep.

The story of this revolutionary material, the heart and soul of all Tempur-Pedic products, begins with NASA’s research to develop a material to relieve the tremendous g-forces experienced by astronauts. Tempur-Pedic’s Swedish scientists, realizing the

enormous potential of the material, spent nearly a decade and millions of research dollars perfecting TEMPUR material as the ultimate sleep surface.

Now Tempur-Pedic has REINVENTED THE MATTRESS. AGAIN. Adaptive bupport. Pressure relief. Reduced motion transfer. Cool comfort. 360˙ easy refresh cover.

Tempur-Pedic never stops innovating.

Their scientists and designers are always looking for ways to improve the most highly recommended bed in America™.

Tempur-Pedic won’t rest until you get the best sleep of your life.

At Sleepy Hollow Furniture, our passion is your sleep. For nearly 36 years, we have carried the best brands, at the best prices, with the best sleep shopping experience! We know it can be confusing to buy a new mattress, that’s why our staff goes through rigorous training to make your selection pleasant and stress-free! Come see you yourself why we are the prestigious Tempur-Pedic Elite retailers!

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Blooms & Berries A halved and scooped out watermelon provides the perfect vessel for a Fourth of July centerpiece filled with a firecracker-inspired arrangement of summer’s best and brightest red, white and blue flowers. Nick McKinney uses white stock and petite daisies; red hypericum berries, carnations and gerbera daisies; and “blue” statice and delphinium for this arrangement that is bursting with Americana vibes!

PHOTOGRAPH BY MARTIN G MEYERS

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Louisiana Saturday Night

The Friday night downpour cleared the weather for a wonderfully cool evening so that friends of Geneva Academy could gather at the home of Aleta and Aaron Eley on May 31 for Lousiana Saturday Night – a crawfish boil benefitting Geneva Academy. The end of the school year was celebrated in true Louisiana fashion. Mason jars full of wildflowers and newspaper tablecloths set the laid back tone. Guests were provided mountains of tasty crawfish courtesy of Robbie McBroom and Zing’s Crawfish. Marsala Beverage provided copious libations to keep everyone in high spirits. Jambalaya, scrumptious homemade bread pudding and French bread created a fare sure to make any Cajun jealous.

The party was kicked up a notch by the timeless tunes of the Blue Rhythm Band. Party goers danced and sang into the late hours of a cool summer night. Special thanks to Jeremy Harrell and Marion State Bank, Dawn and Todd May, Bethany Wilkins, Ed Lang, Jordan Myers, Jackie Peacock, Jennifer Lizenby, Connie Merritt and Stephanie Bailey for all of their efforts in making the night a success!

On the BayouScene

1 Emily Hilleke, Rachel Huber and Haylee Ray 2 Jennifer Lord and Aleta Eley 3 Noel Leithart and Bethany Wilkins 4 Jennifer Lizenby, Amy Booth and Erin Whetmore 5 Gabe Whetmore, Bart Lizenby and Will Merritt 6 Heidi Lang and Connie Merritt

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Modern Day Patriot For a more modern take on celebrating our Independence, Gregory Hudgins has wrapped a neutral pot with blue metallic wire and filled the concrete vase with palm blutes grouped low with soaring white tulips.

PHOTOGRAPH BY MARTIN G MEYERS

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St. Francis Foundation Golf Classic The St. Francis Foundation held its fourth annual Golf Classic at the Bayou Desiard Country Club. Thomas Morstead, New Orleans Saints punter and founder of “What You Give Will Grow”, along with other community sponsors participated in the tournament, with all proceeds benefitting the St. Francis Medical Center Foundation. In addition to the tournament, a reception was held at the home of Charles and Brenda Marsala to welcome guests and participants.

On the BayouScene

1 Tim and Aimeé Kane, Brenda Marsala, Thomas Morstead and Charles Marsala 2 Mr. Malcolm Maddox, Sr. Kathleen Cain and Kristin Wolkart 3 Dr. Marc de Soler, Sr. Mary Ann Sepulvado, Dr. Carmen Payne and Jodi Phillips 4 Dennis and Cindy Rogers with William Smart 5 Kristin Wolkart, Aimeé Kane, Thomas Morstead, Ron Hogan, John Luffey, Sr. Kathleen Cain and Ayres Bradford 6 Pam Stratton, Paula Lane, Marge Richters and Jan Johnston

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pARTy 318

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Artists and Monroe glitterati turned out en masse May 14, for pARTy318, a social gathering at the Masur Museum of Art. By all accounts, the event was a spectacular success.

Artists visited with friends, collectors and business people while taking in the sights of new artworks by some of the region’s best-loved artists. All the while Josh Madden and Jim Steele were on hand to spin records and provide musical atmosphere.

Sponsored by JPS Equipment Rental, KTVE 10, Fiesta Nutrition Center, Rhoda Brown’s Hogwash Caboose, and Slider Central, food abounded. While chowing down on savory Pork Sammies from Rhoda, piping hot sliders from Slider Central, and healthy deliciousness from Fiesta Nutritio Center, partygoers also got the chance to enjoy a beverage or two from the open bar sponsored by Marsala Beverage.

If you missed this pARTy 318, take heart and keep a lookout. Planning for the next pARTy 318 is already underway.

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On the BayouScene

1 Dwayne Hammer Jr., Abigail Gould, Alex Jobe and Sarah Ricaud 2 Brandi Howard, Kelly Moore and Heather Land 3 Taylor Arbour, Kathy Amis and Cyndee Albritton 4 Clayton Maza, Van Edwards, Staci Richard, Lee Edwards, Terie and Joe Chisholm 5 Emily Caldwell and Anna Schriefer 6 Brittany Ramsey and Carol Anne Barnes 7 Sarah Maimon and Melanie Gilfoil 8 Hannah McCauley and Megan Landis 9 Katherine And Cruse Flowers 10 Pete Sousa and Nicole Cross 11 Jade Wheeler, James Gardener and Whitney Peters 12 Emily Napper, Rakshya Deoja and Cole Napper 13 Annitta Starr and Gwen Elliot 14 Dale Russell and Ed Cole 15 Joshua Mitchell and Victoria Smith 16 Ashley and Marc Able

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FNB Customer Appreciation Luncheon

The First National Bank parking lot in West Monroe was converted into a good ol’ southern fish fry on May 29. The “Catch of the Day,” provided by Trio’s Restaurant in Monroe, included fried catfish, jumbo shrimp, fried oysters, hushpuppies and fries. The annual Customer Appreciation Luncheon is just one of the many ways First National Bank likes to say “thanks” to its customers and friends. First National Bank has locations in Arcadia, Farmerville, Ruston, West Monroe and soonto-be Monroe, which will open its doors in mid-July on the corner of 18th Street and Hudson Lane. First National Bank would like to invite everyone to come visit the friendly faces at the new location in Monroe and see why they are known as the “The Uncommon Bank.”

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On the BayouScene

1 Debbie and Kevin Bayles 2 Clay Hipp and Ashley Doughty 3 Taylor Burt and Victoria Lindsey 4 Brian Woodard, Gary Hampton and Mike McGee 5 Lakesha Grayson and Altrena Randle 6 Denice Emanuel, Janie Russ and Melissa Barlow

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Tourism Awareness Breakfast Lt. Gov. Jay Dardenne took a moment off from the campaign trail to drop in at the Hamilton House Inn in West Monroe, the site the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Tourism Awareness Breakfast. During the breakfast, Dardenne helped present the winners of the 2015 “Show Us Your BayouLife” Photo Contest hosted by the Monroe-West Monroe CVB and BayouLife.

Each year, tourism attracts more than 28 million visitors to Louisiana. Those visitors spend more than $11 billion dollars and help generate $850 million in tax revenues for the state each year.

During the breakfast, the CVB touted local successes, including a 72 percent occupancy rate at local hotels and increased attendance at numerous local attractions.

Monroe-native Damien Lawson of NBC’s The Voice was also on-hand for the event.

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On the BayouScene

1 Ruth Canales, Alana Cooper and Diana Poindexter 2 Renee Tull and Janet Knott 3 Noren Smith and Mayor Dave Norris 4 Rebecca Chapmond and Nathan McClain 5 Mike Marrable, Hannah Marrable and Keith Roberts 6 Carolyn, Damien and ArDrey Lawson 7 Jeff and Libby Landry 8 Kanika Trigg and Melissa Thaxton 9 Kyle Edmiston, Alana Cooper and Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne 10 Madison Morris and Kira Jordan 11 Melissa Saye and Ralph Calhoun 12 Jerry and Pat Edmondson 13 Mayor Jamie Mayo, Shelia Snow and Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne 14 Nell Calloway and Tanya Shlosman

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Downtown Gallery Crawl

The seven galleries comprised by the Downtown Gallery Crawl threw open their doors June 4 for the bi-monthly art crawl in downtown Monroe and West Monroe.

Strolling from gallery to gallery, visitors took in artworks by some of the region’s best-loved artists while also gaining exposure to a few up-andcomers, as well. ARENDER studio + gallery featured a retrospective of work by the talented Hilton Lyle. At The Big Room on Art Alley, Jason Byron Nelson was on-hand to sign and sell his new book, Robert. Next door, the UPSTAIRS gallery hosted a special joint show titled "From Here and There" by both Louisiana Tech and ULM art students.

In addition, some lucky art lovers were able to enjoy a special group of singers from “The Barber of Seville,” a comic opera by the Louisiana Opera, as they wandered down the streets and through some of the galleries.

The Downtown Gallery Crawl is one of the most popular recurring events downtown, and it brings together a diverse cross-section of the Monroe art, business and social communities.

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On the BayouScene

1 Margaret Ellerman and Linda Snider Ward 2 Jim and Loretta Owens, Emily and Ken Hebert 3 Joyce Beauvais and Nancy Shutt 4 Judy Wright, Kathy and William Masters 5 Jay White, Debbie and Harold Russell, Jennye White and Emily Caldwell 6 Clint Downing and Moira O'Connor 7 Mac and Leah Reitzell 8 Donna McGee and Jane Burson 9 LaVerne Bodron and Charlie Heck 10 William Holley and Brooke Foy 11 Olivia Mcintyre and Emi Harris 12 Jennifer Whited and Karissa Humphries 13 Mary Helen Kennedy, Shannon and Clint Rider 14 Walt Smith and Ann Bloxom Smith 15 Lauren Wall and Susan Saad 16 Carissa Odubela and Oluwakoseunti "Sunday" Odubela 17 Lacy Mitcham and Christen Parker 18 Iantha Thomas and Nelita Bailey

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Rhythm and Wine

Landry Vineyards opened its gates for a good cause June 11, when it played host to Rhythm and Wine, an event organized to raise awareness of and money for the fight against Alzheimer’s Disease.

Hosts included Avalon Place, Delta Grande, Glenwood Hospital and Centric Federal Credit Union. Media Sponsors included Community Trust Bank, Riverport Creative Group, Kilpatrick Funeral Homes and the Happy Hound Hotel.

Patrons noshed on delicious Italian cuisine and desserts prepared

by Tummy Yummy Creations! Dancing abounded, as well, on the gorgeous patio area to the toe-tapping tunes of The Waterboys. While not eating or dancing, guests took part in a wine pull, a game in which players won prizes based on the number fixed to a bottle of wine pulled from a rack.

Festivities rounded out with strolls among the vines, tours of the winery facilities and a silent auction.

On the BayouScene

1 Amekia Douse, Jessica Hughes and Betsy Stadius 2 Debi Anding, Connie and Barry Bell 3 Larry and Betty Johnson 4 Teri Lee, Zack Wimbish and Leslie Albritton 5 Wanda and Tommy Waldrop 6 Robert and Tammy Warner 7 Sweilem Rihani and Danica Holt 8 Austin Thomas, Kelli Green, Kelly Brantley, Theresa McCoy, Melissa Stringer and Kim Cody 9 Mollea Foust, Sherrie Roberts, Hannah Ridings and Terri Wilson 10 Henry and Mary Bruzeau, Kelli and Mark Murphy 11 Je Landry, Ellie Parker and Libby Landry 12 Ginger Valentine, Kathleen Norcross and Holly Allen 13 Audrey Mattingly, Connie Culpepper, Betty Kennedy, Kellen Culpepper and Trey Skains 14 Hannah Free and Kathy Amis 15 Robyn St. Andre and Alana Babb

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DOIN’ BRUIN

JUDI HORTON’S OXBOW LODGE IS LOCATED IN QUAINT ST. JOSEPH, LOUISIANA. THE REBIRTH OF THIS JEWEL ON THE SHORES OF LAKE BRUIN COMBINES RUSTIC YET MODERN TOUCHES. Article by Maré Brennan | Photography by Martin G Meyers

THE OXBOW LODGE LOCATED ON THE WATERS EDGE OF LAKE BRUIN IN ST. JOSEPH IS EASY TO FIND. Just look for the 1954 1/2 Chevy truck out by the road. “It was my father-in-law’s truck, and my husband would hunt in that truck along the Missisippi River when he was growing up,” says the vacation rental’s owner, Judi Horton. “Monroe residents may remember the truck from my old house located in the Monroe’s Garden District on 2nd Street, where it used to sit on a bed of jasmine – the most unique yard art ever! It has been covered in flowers and Christmas lights and even helped us win an award from the Garden District Neighborhood Alliance.” Well now that yard art beckons vacationers, family reuniongoers and more to come sit a while on the home’s extensive dock and replenish what’s been missing – more down time – a luxury to spend with friends and family at a place where the pace is a little slower and the laughs are a lot heartier.

But first, we must start at the beginning of the rebirth of this jewel on the shores of Bruin.

It was April 2011 when the swirling winds of destruction zigzagged along the banks of Lake Bruin, hitting a nearby dock then making a bee-line for the Oxbow Lodge. Luckily, Judi Horton had just left

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the lodge to check on her other lakefront house, when the tornado wiped out the entire top floor. And in Judi’s characteristically optimistic fashion, she determined right then to rebuild her beloved lodge even bigger and better than ever.

Horton worked with Monroe architect Ricky Newcomer to redesign the Lodge. The new accommodations can sleep up to thirty guests with ease. Mike Butler, the builder who was tapped by Judi to reconstruct the home in the tornado’s aftermath, took a look at the ruins with no roof and asked, “How would you feel about wood walls?”

These same wood walls give this vacation rental home on the lake that’s been dubbed the ‘Hamptons of the South’ their warmth. He also was instrumental in convincing Judi to cover the vaulted ceilings and the front of the home in custom aged tin, which at 50 cents a square foot offered an economical and atmosphere inducing patina to the home. To keep recessed lighting from sticking out against the aged tin, Judi spraypainted white housings an unobtrusive pewter hue.

Beginning with a fairly blank slate, Judi raised the ceiling an extra two feet in the living area to make it feel grander. The ceilings in the

upstairs bedrooms were also vaulted and covered in corrugated tin. Floors and walls throughout the top floor are a honey-colored pine and give a rustic, yet modern feel.

The open concept kitchen opens into the expansive living room. When traditional granite or tile countertops didn’t seem to feel right for the space, Judi had her counters wrapped in tin and finished with neat riveted corners and seams. Judi’s dad’s plane has found new life as a towel holder near the sink with its industrial arched fixture. Beside the sink, a graphic red and white CocaCola hand-painted sign is a nod to Judi’s father, who was a commercial artist, who had studied in New York City under the legendary Norman Rockwell. Says Judi, “Daddy was Old School. He did everything by hand and retired at the age of 84. He loved every minute of every day, lettering signs by hand to making an egg costume for a local dance school.” Judi explains that her dad trained her two brothers and her to appreciate art saying, “Art is in your eye, not your hand.”

Stainless steel double wall ovens, an induction cooktop and an extra roomy refrigerator/freezer ensure cooking for the a large gathering is a breeze. Rucker Cabinets in Columbia fabricated the custom cabinets in the kitchen. Mirrors which reflect the natural light from the large windows overlooking the lake are placed in the top cabinet doors.

Just around the corner is an antique, bead board cabinet which serves as the lodge’s well-stocked pantry, filled with necessities for cooking like flour, sugar, salt, mayo, mustard, oil, paper towels, toilet paper and more.

“We like to think of ourselves as the ‘host with the most,’” says the effervescent home-owner.

The generous island is topped with 125-year-old sinker wood that was reclaimed from the Ouachita River.

Beneath the island a vintage Coca-Cola ice box adds oldfashioned charm. Catalpa branch braces are used to secure the counter top. Wrought iron counter stools with cane bottoms are backed with metal fish. Pendant lights above the island were found at Paul Michael Company.

Beyond the island in the main living area, an extra long farm table creates the central dining area and is surrounded by school chairs and a unique railroad bench.

The table was a find from an old Bonita, Louisiana grocery store. The railroad bench has a back that toggles back and forth that made it easy to sit and watch the incoming or outgoing trains. The table seats 14 people easily and extra chairs and tables can be added to accommodate even more. An unusual light fixture of Edison bulbs found at Third Street Market is attached to the tin, vaulted ceiling above the dining table.

Judi makes a resourceful use of dropcloths from Lowe’s to economically cover the enormous floor to ceiling windows in the main living area. The dropcloths are clipped onto metal rods and used as curtains. A comfortable grouping of overstuffed club chairs, cushioned rattan chairs with ottoman and flag-draped neutral sofas create ample seating area for get togethers and for WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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watching the glorious sunsets on Lake Bruin from air conditioned comfort. The “Cabin Fever” sign was a gift from a friend from the Horton’s first lake house in 1992.

The bunk room just off the main living area upstairs is filled wall to wall with Army cots from Cabela’s. “We call this the ‘Camp Room,’” says Judi. “Kids love to claim this space as their own!” Vintage wooden tennis racquets line the walls. A repurposed shutter was painted red and hides the hot water heater.

Across the hallway, the spacious Cabana Bathroom offers a luxurious place to shower after swimming in the lake and can be accessed from the back porch. Light fixtures from Third Street Market illuminate the triple sink counter. Judi used scraps of wood left over from construction to create frames for mirrors over each vessel sink. An oversized shower with river rock accents provides a soothing respite.

In the upstairs laundry room, Judi updated a brass chandelier by painting it a rousing red. The table in the laundry room has made its way to the lake from Judi’s former Monroe Garden District home. On the table’s top, you’ll find the names of the Horton kids and all their friends. Judi explains, “You should have seen the kids’ faces when I would give them a little pen knife and tell them to carve their names on it.”

In the hallway, a possom-belly cupboard from the early 1800s holds Judi’s collection of vintage plaid Thermos bottles on its zinc wrapped top. Grins Judi, “I like plaid and started collecting these in the 1970s – and this isn’t all of them.”

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“The Oxbow Lodge on Lake Bruin offers the perfect escape to share with the multitudes. With over 2,200 square feet of deck and dock space, it’s a beautiful retreat.”

– JUDI HORTON

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In one of the upstair’s bedrooms, a white-painted pulpit is repurposed as a bedside table. Above the bed, an antique tin-type photographic portrait adds a bit of nostalgia. Neutral bedding is accented with red and blue pillows.

A darling painted antique bench rests at the foot of the bed in the second bedroom. Pillows in stars and stripes add an Americanavibe that Ralph Lauren, himself, would love.

The rails on the the stairs were hewn from branches of a catalpa tree that is located just beyond the back deck. Downstairs, paintings, posters, vintage painted signs and board games that Judi has acquired from estate sales line the walls with exuberant color. The cozy downstair’s den features a tribal rug found at Paul Michael Company and a neutral sofa with fringe accented with bright and cheery pillows. A super cool vintage peanut vending machine holds special meaning. Judi’s late husband Robert’s nickname as a child was Peanut, “so I bought it. Pieces like this take you back,” she says. During the remodel Judi and her contractor converted a downstairs kitchen into a bathroom. The new shower features the same river rock accents as the Cabana Bathroom. Exposed brick walls downstairs were whitewashed for a softer look.

Taking center stage in one of the downstair’s bedrooms is a painted iron bed, which was sanded by one of Judi’s friend to enhance its vintage patina. Just beyond the downstairs den is the screened in sleeping porch with its plethora of bunk and trundle beds at the ready for cousins telling ghost stories or friends reminiscing and making new memories.

“The sunsets here are unbelievable,” says Judi as we walk beyond the sleeping porch and out onto the over 2,200 square feet of deck and dock space. In the shallow, the kids get their own swim dock. After the tornado, Judi added the swim dock and lots of builtin benches. The boat slip is outfitted with a hydraulic lift for convenience and offers extra spots for friends to dock their boats. Majestic cypress trees offer shade in the summer and magnificent color in the fall and spring.

In celebration of family and friends, the Oxbow Lodge on Lake Bruin offers the perfect escape to share with the multitudes. For those who wish to include golf, tennis or a dip in a pool, the Lake Bruin Country Club is located conveniently across the street from the lodge. In addition, the Oxbow Lodge is handicap accessible with a ramp that makes getting from the gardenia lined pathways to the second floor a breeze.

For more information about how you can enjoy Judi’s amazing vacation get-away for your next reunion or family gathering, check www.vrbo.com and search for Lake Bruin Oxbow Lodge.

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Antique Alley Spring Open House It’s one of the region’s premier shopping days. No, it’s not the day after Thanksgiving. It’s the annual Spring open house on Antique Alley in West Monroe. Each Spring and Fall, the stores along Antique Alley throw open their doors on a Sunday afternoon.

Visitors stroll from store to store, visit with friends and shopkeepers, and browse antiques and collectibles in the dozens of shops dotting the alley. Each shop also provides refreshments to visitors, as a thank you for years of patronage.

Antique Alley represents one of the region’s largest commercial draws, and visitors come from hundreds of miles in search of that perfect new piece. The Spring open house is one of their largest annual draws, and this year was no exception. More than a thousand antiquers turned out for the event.

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On the BayouScene

1 Carolyn Elsea, Debbie Gant and Mona Parrott 2 Bruce and Juanita Gooding and Desirae Gooding Trappey 3 Charla Kendrick and Cheryl Richardson 4 Laura and Claudia Bryan, Tami Madison 5 Cheryl Yarbrough and Jane Chapman 6 Anne and Cookie Cookston 7 Moira O'Connor, Clint and Cookie Downing, Amity Rayner and Kate Crutis 8 Stephan Hebert, Corie and Forrest Hebert 9 Annette and Denny Gaudin 10 Erin Croft, Cole Smith, Karen and Richard Laban 11 Nancy Petterson and Andrew Petterson 12 Eddie Welch and Kevin Womack 13 John Farmer 14 Chip and Mitzi Murray 9 15 Muriel and Stacie Woodard

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Our Vision – Your Y The YMCA of Northeast Louisiana hosted its annual campaign with a dinner and auction with live entertainment on Thursday, July 11 at the American Legion Hall at Forsythe Park. The Mason Granade Band was on-hand to provide entertainment to the crowd. Attendees were able to bid on auction items such as sports jerseys, jewelry, Yeti ice chests and more! The YMCA of Northeast Louisiana is a community based, nonfacility YMCA, which means all of the programs are provided through community partnerships.

These programs include after school and summer academy, health and wellness, mobile fitness unit, mobile aquatics, positive action and youth sports.

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On the BayouScene

1 Je and Kelsey Laudenheimer 2 Patricia and Matthew Cameron 3 Holly and Mike Healey, Dixie and Don Mitchell 4 Brett and Loretta Lemoine 5 Dean Mailhes and Karen Odom 6 Mary Beth McCoy and Pam Barton 7 Ricky and Kim Lowery, Janet and Bob Durden 8 Alan Garth, Gay Nell, Bill Levinson and Tammi Madison 9 Monan Krishna, Pradeep Nanjundaiah, Jitendra Boga Chenchu 10 George Finn, Paul Carau and David Redlich 11 Dannah and Chris Holtzclaw 12 Camrin Clark, Titan Lloyd and Ryan Lloyd 13 Greg and Katie Kahmann 14 Rhonda Fowler and Sabrina Mathus 15 Ellis and Deborah Lewis

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Senior Recital

Hundreds of friends, family, music lovers and well-wishers gathered on the evening of May 28, 2015 to listen to recent Neville High School graduate Margaret Ann Zentner fill Grace Episcopal Church with her extraordinary voice. Grace’s Father Norman provided a welcome to the capacity crowd, acknowledging Grace Church’s rich musical traditions. Accompanied by music maestro Dr. Rick Seiler on piano, Margaret Ann sang in French, German, Italian and English and provided her concert goers with a brief history and background for each piece of music and its composer, as well as a translation as part of her training. Margaret Ann was quick to give thanks for her parents, family and friends and deep appreciation for her musical mentors, including Marjorie Stricklin, Dr. Claire Vangelisti, Dr. Rick Seiler, Shelia Martin and Julian Jones.

Said Dr. Seiler, “It is a very rare event to have someone so young be able to perform at this level. Margaret Ann is in a good place, and we have lots to look forward to from this young lady.” A reception for Margaret Ann, who plans to continue her musical studies at LSU this fall, followed in Kilbourne Hall.

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On the BayouScene

1 Dr. Rick Seiler, Margaret Ann Zentner and Dr. Claire Vangelisti 2 Scott and Mac Zentner, Seth and Denny Lawrence 3 Olive Sartor, Arabella Moore and Nancy Cole 4 Danette Sager, David and Ginger Knight 5 Rachel and Treina Landrum 6 Nancy Wade and Maggie Zentner 7 Kathy Hart and Theda Birdsong 8 Kristin Brown and Eleanor Brown 9 Julie Pruitt, Amy Wood and Susan Lowery 10 John Birdsong and Mary Catherine Berry 11 Amanda Reeves, Shelia Martin and Julian Jones 12 Marion Zentner and Mossy Sartor 13 Margaret Ann Zentner and Harry Pankey 14 Shelby Flowers, Ansley Tipton, Margaret Ann Zentner, Clark Kennedy and Elsie Pugh 15 Robert McCandlish, Sarah Katherine McCallum and William McCandlish 16 Mac Zentner, Catherine Thomas and Seth Lawrence 17 Maggie Zentner, James and Frances Rogers 18 Dennis and Verda Anders

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THE

AMBASSADOR A quiet, unassuming mother and grandmother, you’d never suspect she was a player in foreign relations with world superpower China. That’s precisely why Nell Calloway is the Bayou Icon for July.

Article by MICHAEL DEVAULT & Photography by BRAD ARENDER IN 1937, an American moved to China for a job. The Chinese government had given him good reason to make the move: $1,000 a month for three months’ work, this at a time when the United States was still recovering from the Great Depression.

At the time, that was an unheard of sum of money. In today’s dollars, the threemonth contract would be worth more than $50,000, hardly a small sum for such a brief stint. The man’s job was relatively simple.

Examine the defensive and offensive capabilities of China’s air force and report to Soong Mai-ling, Madame Chiang.

Perhaps it was the brevity of the contract--just three months--or the possibility of securing financial stability for her family that led Nell Thompson Chennault to acquiesce to her husband’s absence from their northeastern Louisiana home. But acquiesce she did, and it was a decision that would alter the course of history.

“I was very close to my grandmother.

She was an inspiration to me,” said her granddaughter, Nell Calloway. “Here was a woman who had seen her husband and four of her six sons go off to war.”

After all, this wasn’t Claire Chennault’s first foray into global conflict. He had served in World War I, in the Army Air Corps as a signal pilot. By 1937, Calloway’s grandmother, with whom she shares first names, was a professional at running a household. This time, though, it was a bit different.

“She had to create the life for the three remaining children for a husband who was off, in another country, fighting a war for

another land,” Calloway said. Chennault was in China not as an officer in the U.S. military, but as an advisor, and it was supposed to be a brief contract. As it had time and again, though, history got in the way of Chennault’s plans.

In July of 1937, war erupted between China and Japan, and Chennault found himself catapulted to the post of chief aviation advisor to Chiang Kai-shek, chairman of the Chinese Military Council and future president. The Sino-Japanese War raged until 1941, when it became part of the larger global conflict, World War II and gave birth to one of the greatest air squadrons in military history, the Flying Tigers.

Shortly after Dec. 7, 1941, Claire Chennault--now a colonel in the Army Air Corps-dispatched his Flying Tigers to strike the war’s first acknowledged blow against the Japanese in the wake of Pearl Harbor. By the end of the war, Chennault was a Major General and had appeared on the cover of Time.

He was also elevated to the revered status of hero among the Chinese people, a population that tends to bestow near godlike status on its heroes. It’s no surprise, then, that his granddaughter is walking through the Monroe Regional Airport with the head of Xinhua, the largest news agency in China.

After all, earlier this year when she visited China for the opening of a museum honoring her grandfather and the Flying Tigers, Calloway was the honored guest of Vice Premier Liu Yandong. That she’s a player on the international stage and such a revered figure in China is no surprise to the

man that hired her, Lt. Gov. Jay Dardenne.

“She’s unquestionably one of the best hires I’ve ever made,” Dardenne told BayouLife. He recalled his first meetings with her, when she was on the board of the Selman Field Aviation Museum.

Dardenne tapped her to lead the military museum, but after he did a bit of housekeeping. As Secretary of State, Dardenne was tasked with managing the state’s extensive historical museum system. He knew the system needed work, but one of the steps was a no-brainer. “When I became Secretary of State, the museum in Monroe had not taken shape. The first thing I did was rename it after Gen. Chennault.”

That move proved a defining moment.

Not only did it refocus attention on the inchoate museum efforts at Selman Field, it galvanized a volunteer corps around a singular identity and allowed them to press forward, with Calloway leading the charge.

A longtime volunteer at the museum, Calloway nevertheless is lighthearted about Dardenne’s selection.

“So many people think I’m here just because of the legacy,” she said. “I laughingly tell people all the time that, when Jay asked me to be director, it wasn’t due to any directorial skills. It was bloodline.”

Dardenne tells it differently.

“You could just tell she was a voice of reason and had great plans and visions for what that museum could be,” he said. In the intervening years, the museum expanded both in size--they nearly tripled exhibition space and constructed a massive hangar for aircraft restoration--and collections. The

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Chennault Aviation and Military History Museum has become a repository for military history and memorabilia for the families of hundreds of veterans of this nation’s wars.

For Dardenne, tapping Calloway to lead a museum named for her grandfather made perfect sense. An obstetrics nurse by training and a homemaker, she had been volunteering there since 2000, when Nita Brinson recommended including a Chennault room at the Selman Field Museum. From the moment she started her volunteer efforts at the museum, Calloway was hooked.

"I remember telling my husband, while I was working, that I wish I had more time to volunteer at the museum," she said. "I knew if I ever didn't have to work, I'd really like to do that. Little did I realize that it would be a lifechanging experience for me."

From those first days as a volunteer to an influential presence within China, Calloway's trajectory has gone almost vertical. In addition to meeting with officials from the U.S. federal and Chinese national governments, Calloway is a frequent speaker on U.S.-Chinese relations.

Dardenne likens her to an ambassador for northeastern Louisiana, and he frequently points out that Calloway "plays on a much larger stage" than her colleagues at similar museums.

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proving relations between the U.S. and Chinese peoples, Calloway's work has real-world implications close to home, not too far from where her grandmother raised a family on Lake St. John. After all, it's not just government officials who want to get close to the granddaughter of the Flying Tigers. It's the businessmen.

Her status opens many doors, doors through which often walk the leaders of some of China's biggest industries. They come seeking not only a closer connection with Calloway, but to also improve the stature of their firms through business relationships with her home town. It's a dynamic that may at first seem outlandish to those who don't understand Chinese culture. With just a little exploration, though, the relationships begin to make sense.

"The fact that she is the granddaughter of the general gives her instant standing and instant credibility with the Chinese people," Dardenne said. "In a way, it makes her a folk hero throughout China."

That stature is something Dardenne is confident will eventually bear fruit for northeastern Louisiana in the form of economic development. And he's not talking just about tourism, of which there is already a considerable amount. On any given day, Chinese tourists can be seen with cameras, studying

every display in the museum.

Instead, Dardenne said Calloway recognizes that the individuals coming to the museum also bring with them the notions of maintaining ties to the general's home and family. Business ties.

"She understands the potential this has, potential to be bigger than just the museum," Dardenne said. For her part, Calloway sees the future of Sino-U.S. relations through the lens of family connections. But she hasn't always recognized the possibilities, which she said began to solidify in 2002, when Calloway first traveled to China with her mother.

"We went to China having no clue what to expect when we got there," she said. "The things we have been taught here in the U.S. about China I found were very different from experiencing the true China."

What we see as reverence towards individuals, Chinese see as respect toward their heroes and the sacrifices they made. Chinese students are educated about the actions of their elders, going back for generations, in such a manner that the stories of those individuals become engrained in the students. "That gave me a whole new appreciation not just for China, but also for our history, here, with all wars," Calloway said.

Returning to the states after that trip, Calloway vowed to approach her work at the mu-

seum in the same fashion. Calloway frequently reiterates the museum's mission to preserver history for the past, present and future. And that begins with school tours, which Calloway frequently leads herself.

"The kids we get in here, so many of them, they don't have a clue about the history of our country," Calloway said. While leading visiting classes, Calloway delivers quizzes.

"I ask them questions, and so few of them know the answers to the questions," Calloway said. "We're able to tell them what a veteran is, about some of the wars we've fought in the past and the conflicts we're now engaged in.

The one thing they get when I finish talking to them is that they need to pay attention to what these men and women have done, because who is it going to be up to in the future to continue our fight for freedom? I've even had first graders say, 'Us.'" Beyond the patriotic imagery, of which there is plenty, and beyond the impressive array of weaponry, models and uniforms, the museum has at its heart a patriotism, pure and unshallow, that at once explains the value of freedom and the price that freedom sometimes exacts. Displays of Nazi and Japanese government articles from the pre-World War II era underscore the fragility of the notion of freedom.

"We're going to lose our freedoms if we don't grow a society that's willing to fight for them," Calloway said. "That's one of the paramount things we do at the museum, is to instill in the children to be proud of our military and what they've done for us."

Calloway possesses the unique qualities of a diplomat that allow her to transition seamlessly from talk of war to the commonalities that drive peace, a lesson she's learned through her interactions with individuals in China.

While protecting freedoms can mean military actions, Calloway notes diplomacy plays a role as well, and diplomacy requires recognizing what unites different cultures.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II, a major milestone.

While historians debate the reasons why, they agree on one fact: that World War II marked the end, at least temporarily, of a particular kind of warfare.

In fact, the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum is as much a chronical of that changing nature of war as it is a tribute to the men and women who fought those wars. From soldiers who served in World War I, through the still ongoing conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, the museum bears witness to the constantly evolving ideas of war.

Looking at the world stage from the inside out, Calloway recognizes the potential benefits and dangers of current global political situations. "Future peace becomes more secure through friendship," Calloway said.

To that end, in early June, Calloway hosted representatives from the three largest news agencies in China. They traveled to Monroe to visit the museum and to discuss opportunities to grow the relationship between the museum and China. Calloway recognizes the importance of such ties.

"The relationship between China and the U.S. is the most important relationship in the world today," she said. "We're the No. 1 and No. 2 superpowers, and you can argue about which is which."

Indeed, China is the only nation on earth that matches the U.S. in economic power, cultural influence, trade clout and military might.

Only through a deeper understanding of the competing and common interests of the people of both nations can peace endure. Yet, almost paradoxically, Americans tend to think of foreign relations in terms of political movements, while the Chinese views are more personal.

For the sake of economic security and peace, friendships between the two powers must be forged.

"The only way we can accomplish this is person-to-person, and helping Americans to see that China welcomes a relationship with us, on a people-to-people basis, avoiding politics," Calloway said.

One small part of fostering this deeper understanding is a new bilingual ChineseAmerican exhibit at the museum. Focusing on the important contributions of the Chinese people to World War II, the exhibit is centered around Chennault's memoirs, published in 1949, about his time in China up until the time he returned in 1937 to recruit the Flying Tigers.

"The commonality that we have, that China, Taiwan, and the U.S. all agree on, is that Gen. Chennault provided a great service to help the Chinese people and the Americans."

Chennault's book closes with a quote, in which the general expresses his hope that the Flying Tigers symbol will remain "as long as it is needed," a reminder of the sacrifices and successes that came through unity.

"What that says to me is that we fought together in a war, and we changed our history coming together," Calloway said. "We need now to come together to make a future, a better future, together."

Calloway was eight years old when her grandfather died in 1958. She remembers him

fondly as a grandfather who didn't tell stories but, instead, listened to her stories. "I remember sitting on his lap, and I remember him asking questions about my life," she said. On long walks through the vegetable garden, he would point out this blossom or that fruit, though they knew better than to touch anything. "He just had that special feeling a grandfather's supposed to have."

Service runs deep in the Chennault family. Not only did Gen. Chennault serve bravely and tirelessly up until his death--he was promoted to Lt. General just days before he succumbed to cancer. His son, Calloways' father, was the lone survivor of a B-29 crash that killed eleven of his flight team. Perhaps it is no wonder that Calloway became a nurse, providing service and comfort to those in need, something she's continuing today.

Chinese relations aside, Calloway has a separate crusade, and this one is as much about the future as anything she is attempting to accomplish with China.

"We have 22 soldiers a day committing suicide. We have to do something to address that," she states bluntly. Veterans and active duty personnel alike are taking their own lives in record numbers. Calloway hopes the museum can play a small role in turning the tide on military suicides.

"They've got to feel as if someone really does appreciate all they've sacrificed and all they've done," she said. Yet, the Chennault Aviation and Military History Museum finds itself amidst a transition into an uncertain future.

At the end of June, it was set to become an independent, community museum. "We will be severed from the Secretary of State," Calloway said. "So now, we're going to depend on the community to support us."

Calloway is confident that the museum bearing her grandfather's name and showcasing so much of our nation's history will persevere through the challenges, continuing to serve as a connection to our long, storied history, the present conflicts and as a reminder that the sacrifices that make freedom possible continue today. That includes veterans struggling after service, too.

"What does it say to our soldiers and our veterans if we close a military museum?" Calloway asked, a challenge to a community that must, ultimately, decide whether it will preserve the legacies of service members. "They need our support now, more than ever, and their families need that support, too."

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Paint the Pint at the Pickle Barrel Choice Brands hosted a Blue Moon ‘Paint the Pint’ Night at Pickle Barrel on June 16th.

Guests were invited to paint their very own signature pilsner glass while enjoying Blue Moon Belgian White, White IPA, and Summer Honey on tap. Once the glasses were painted, they were judged by the bartender and the most creative took home a Blue Moon Prize Pack. Be on the lookout for more ‘Paint the Pint’ Nights in the near future (facebook.com/choicebrands). They’ll craft the beer, you craft the glass!

On the BayouScene

1 Ed Greenlee and Joe Summerscales 2 Van Edwards and Joe Chisholm 3 Kimberly Thompson and Lee Edwards 4 Jessica Haskins and Johnathan Danie 5 Hayden Edgeworth and Allan Edgeworth 6 Sara and Jason Strader 7 Kyle Nola and Chris Zagone 8 Mary Simpson and Delia Simpson 9 Joshua Salley and Emma Braddock 10 Marleigh Baryan and Lyndsey Jones

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Pork and Pearls

Onna and Alan Gallagher’s beautiful, course-side home on Bayou Desiard Country Club provided a picturesque setting for “Pork and Pearls,” a fundraiser for the Monroe Symphony Orchestra held May 29. Though Code Blue and the Flatliner had to forego their appearance due to the weather, a little rain couldn’t stop the party from going on inside.

Patrons weren’t disappointed with the spread, either. Roasted pork and grilled oysters served as the centerpiece of a lavish spread, complete with wine and signature cocktails. Artist Caroline Youngblood was on hand, too, showcasing works from her renowned series of oyster paintings.

Organizers were thrilled with the success of Pork and Pearls, which was sponsored by Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial, Nonna, Marsala Beverage and BayouLife.

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On the BayouScene

1 Mari and Dewitt Robinson 2 Sharron Jones and Gwenn Jackson 3 Jon and Whitney Miller 4 Kathryn and Kevin Williams 5 Rebecca Honeycutt and Lacey Stinson 6 Carolyn and Borden Gates 7 Karla and Jay Curtis, Nancy Miller, Jon and Whitney Miller and Courtney Wetzell 8 Mike Brown, Rachel Niblett, Brittany Ramsey and Carol-Anne Barnes 9 Stan Liner and Jenna Meeks 10 Margaret Barker and Patti Morris 11 Sharron Jones, Lynda Burns and LaVerne Bodron 12 Jan Adams, Pat Mays, Frank Hoffman, Jack Williams, Pam Robinson, Johnny Adams, Alan and Onna Gallagher 13 Julia Taylor, Arely Castillo Vargas, Simran Emaus, Courtney Wetzell, Lauren Wall and Scarlett Holland 14 Josh and Leslie Culp 15 Mike Walsworth, Lauren Wall, Hayley Huynh, John Bruscato, Stevin Wall and Matthew Garcia 16 Mike Walsworth, Onna and Alan Gallagher 17 Micah and Alex Barham

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Hardwicks Receive Award

Mary and Jay Hardwick were recipients of the 2015 National Wetlands Award for Landowner Stewardship for their conservation work on the family’s historic Somerset Plantation in Tensas Parish. With only two owners since 1814, Somerset under the Hardwicks has seen more than 450 acres of wetlands restored and more than 3,000 acres of wetlands preserved. The bottomland hardwood forested acres on their farm serves as a habitat for the Louisiana black bear. A working farm, Somerset Plantation employs many conservation techniques, including extensive crop rotation, minimun tillage, filtering strips and wetlands restoration.

The Hardwicks traveled to Washington D.C. to receive the award from the Environmental Law Institute at a ceremony at the U.S. Botanic Garden.

In March, the Hardwicks presented a Conservation program to members of Monroe Garden Study League at the University of Louisiana - Monroe Library. Jay, who has been past chairman of Cotton Inc. and past chairman of the National Cotton Council, explained the economic benefits of conservation and detailed the geopolitical implications of water and soil conservation in particular. Economic successes can be directly linked to healthy environments that can sustain life. As Jay said, “You can’t drink oil.”

Jay and Mary Hardwick receive the 2015 National Wetlands Award for Landowner Stewardship from Environmental Law Institute President Scott Schang.

Mary at Somerset with native Louisiana Irises.

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South Pacific: The Concert Strauss Theatre and Monroe Symphony Orchestra Combine Forces | by Maré Brennan

he summers in Northeast Louisiana keep proving to be the best Trahan. “We became great friends and have remained in touch now that time to see amazing artistic collaborations. Last summer we are back in America. Travis graciously performed for Strauss' "The brought the unprecedented success of Les Misérables: The Con- Voices" concert as a favor to me. The audience fell in love with his singing, and when Tommy Usrey cert, which had the whole and I began developing this project area buzzing for months afterwith Jason Rinehart and MSO, wards. Who remembers those Travis was our first choice for Emile booming voices of Russ Givens and de Becque. The role fits his voice Hunt Neely as Valjean and Inspeclike a glove. In fact, Travis visited tor Javert? The geniuses who deNatchitoches this Spring and pervised that clever concert experience formed "This Nearly was Mine" for are at it again with Rodgers and my students. My jaw dropped Hammerstein’s unforgettable South when he began singing. I cannot Pacific: The Concert at ULM’s Brown wait for our community to hear him Auditorium on July 10-12. perform the entire role. Shelley is The production will be conequally gifted and both will bring a ducted by Dr. Jason Rinehart, assislevel of professionalism and finesse tant conductor for the MSO; stage that is associated with MSO's directed by Dr. Corey Trahan, execsoloists.” utive director for the Strauss; and According to Trahan, the accompanied on stage by members cast for South Pacific is quite large, of the Monroe Symphony Orchesfeaturing children, high school and tra. Julian Jones will act as the recollege students, young adults, vethearsal pianist and chorus director, eran performers, professional and and William Applewhite will take SOUTH PACIFIC KICK-OFF PARTY amateur singers. Expect some on choreography duties. NELA cameo appearances – some making Arts Council CEO Tommy Usrey exclaimed, “We have truly assembled the artistic dream team, so I predict their theatrical debuts and some returning after many years away from the stage. Behind the scenes, Trahan says there is a small army of Strauss, that South Pacific will move the bar even higher!”

MSO and NLAC members working to make sure this project is successful. Says Trahan, “What people will see on stage is the finished product.

Bali Ha’i: Honoring Palmer Jarrell The late Palmer Jarrell will be honored for his lifelong devotion to What they will not see is all it takes after nearly a year of planning, the Arts in northeast Louisiana with the dedication of this summer per- fundraising, delegating and rehearsing to reach our goal.” formance to his memory. Strauss Theatre Center board president Bobbette Prince said, “Palmer Jarrell’s integrity and devotion to the Arts was ex- Happy Talk: Collaborations According to Trahan, “Working with a live orchestra is one of the emplary and should be honored. My children performed in The King and I at the Strauss Theatre Center when Palmer was the King. I knew our greatest experiences for a singing actor. It is a true collaboration between Board would love to honor Palmer at the South Pacific concert. Beverly three artistic forces-singer, conductor and instrumentalist. Live orchestra Jarrell is such a huge supporter of the Monroe Symphony that it just provides sounds that the piano is incapable of producing. My favorite seemed like the natural thing to do. I ran into Charles Jackson, the MSO’s moment in the rehearsal process is the first time the cast rehearses with the orchestra. Suddenly, the music comes alive, and there is a different incoming board chairman, and he agreed!” energy within a cast. There are also challenges-a pianist can jump from one place to another should a singer make a mistake. An orchestra cannot.

Carefully Taught: The Cast and Musicians What a cast of characters you will see in this show! Leads for the con- Fortunately, MSO always uses experienced conductors who are trained cert include the professional voices of Travis Sherwood as Emile de to foresee 'train wrecks' and know how to keep the performance on track.

Becque and Shelley Cooper as Nellie. Supporting characters include Lt. I am very excited to work with Jason Rinehart – he truly loves musicals Cable (Chase Miller), Liat (Holli Conway), Bloody Mary (Jasey Gilbert), and brings a confidence to the conductor's podium that makes everyone Brackett (Clint Downing) and Harbison (John Denison). Rehearsals for on stage relax.”

On the idea of artistic collaborations, Usrey says, “I’ve always been the show begin June 28th with singers and orchestra having only nine rehearsals with the entire cast together before opening. “Travis Sherwood, big on collaborating because it gives artists of difference disciplines Shelley Cooper and I all lived and worked together in Bangkok,” says CONTINUED ON PAGE 128

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Downtown Arts Alliance Dinner

Throughout the year, the volunteers and members of the Downtown Arts Alliance work tirelessly to foster an interest in the visual arts in the galleries in downtown Monroe and West Monroe. In recognition of those efforts, alliance patrons held a dinner to celebrate the accomplishments of the year.

Restaurant Cotton and Chef Cory Bahr hosted the dinner April 23, which also featured a talk by Matthew Cameron. Art Alley painter Ricky Sikes demonstrated the art of portrait painting featuring Gracie Putnam. In addition to the demonstrations, volunteers, artists, and patrons enjoyed fellowship and time to let their hair down.

Among those in attendance were some of the most popular Gallery Crawl artists, familiar faces from education and the business community, and more than a few art fans. It was a great way to say a thank you to the people who help make the Downtown Gallery Crawl a reality.

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On the BayouScene

1 Donna McGee, Emily Caldwell and Matthew Cameron 2 Kelsea McCrary, Nick Oskoian and Cassie Kacvinsky 3 Kat Machan, Arthur Martinez and Susan Mohr 4 Brad Arender, Eric Hammons, Joe Giildenzopf and Mark O'Keefe 5 Ali Hijazi and EmJ Cruz 6 Sarah and Jim Cuthbert 7 Chip Strode and Jay Curtis 8 Mac and Leah Reitzell 9 Victoria Smith and Tommy Usery 10 Lisa Patterson and Stacy Medaries 11 Kelsea McCrary, Lacy Mitchum, Austin Bantel and Christen Parker 12 Gracie Putnam and Ricky Sikes 13 Thomas Lovell and Eric Hammons 14 Matt Abraham and Alissa Sutton Russell 15 Ann Bloxom Smith and Jay Stephenson 16 Melanie and Je Douthit 17 Amy and Michael Sawyer

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The River Gallery’s 25th Anniversary

The month of July is The River Gallery's 25th anniversary.

WOW! That's a quarter of a century. The artist/members will feature a memorabilia wall with photos and news stories from the past 25 years . Each artist will show a painting created just for the occasion using "silver" or "25" as the theme of the painting. The "Silver Celebration" exhibit will continue through Thursday, August 6 with a closing celebration during the Downtown Gallery Crawl.

The gallery started in the summer of 1990 when a group of local and regional painters, potters, photographers, woodworkers and jewelry makers, wishing to promote art, art education and art appreciation to the people of this area, formed the non-profit co-op named "The Ouachita River Art Guild". Their first gallery was in Glenwood Mall in West Monroe and they later moved to Antique Alley in downtown West Monroe, growing into a much larger store front on Antique Alley at 308 Trenton St., where they are now located. The River Gallery has now become the oldest art co-op in Louisiana. Each artist takes a turn at working in the gallery and other details of running a business are spread out among all the members. Membership in the gallery is through a juried process.

Workshops that anyone can attend, in various media, by well known artists are sponsored several times a year in different locations. Fees for the workshops are only enough to pay the instructor and expenses associated with the workshop. As the co-op approaches their 25th anniversary, they continue to thrive and grow.

Located at 308 Trenton St. in West Monroe on historic Antique Alley, it is open to the public free of charge Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM. Phone 318-322-2380. Web site: www.ouachitariverartgallery.com

Brenda McDaniel, Ada Richie, Carolyn Fox

Brenda McDaniel demonstrates at a gallery crawl

Emily Brodnax, Mara Loeb, Don Hudnall, Donna McGee and Melanie Douthit

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South Pacific: The Concert Continued From Page 124

singers, dancers, actors, visual artists - the opportunity to work together to produce much larger projects than they would have been able to pull off solo. It gives us an opportunity to make a good project great by taking it to the next artistic level while providing our audiences with the highest caliber entertainment that they might not otherwise experience without going to larger cities. We have such wonderful talent in this region that it’s just a joy to be a part of a collaboration, some more successful than others but we all learn from each other and, without exception, are always ready to tackle another.

It’s such an amazing experience to sit in on the planning sessions between the artistic directors of our organizations, watching how they feed off of each other as they throw out ideas, and by the end of the session, to see a skeleton of the project emerging. My secretary always told them, as they were leaving the office, ‘When Tommy begins talking with his hands, he’s bought into the project completely and you’ll get the funding!’ This actually is the best part of my job - surrounding myself with such amazing visionaries who can take an idea and create projects in which we can all take pride of ownership. Working with artists in this setting is so rewarding because they have such a respect for each other’s talent and a professional network upon whom they can call when that something extra is needed.”

Adds MSO’s Nancy Miller of the upcoming collaborative project, “The arts organizations need each other. By collaborating we can elevate each others' strengths.”

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Honey Bun: What Will Audiences Love the Most?

What is it about South Pacific that audiences will love and respond to the most? Trahan says, “The most obvious choice for me would be the music itself. The melodies are familiar and will be sung by some of the finest voices I have heard. Performing Rodgers and Hammerstein with a live orchestra is as good as it gets in my book. The story of South Pacific is timeless. There's romance, comedy and social issues like racism, discrimination and cultural differences that are still relevant.

Our job will be to tell the story through singing, acting and dancing.

There is the entertainment factor but also a number of instances that will cause the audience to think about their stance on social issues. Having lived overseas for the past two years, I was the ‘foreigner.’ Since I have returned to America, I treat ‘foreigners’ differently. I have a deeper respect for them and go out of my way to make them feel welcomed in my country. South Pacific has the potential to open everyone's eyes to how we treat others who are ‘different.’”

Usrey elaborates, “I can’t wait until opening night to get the audience reaction. We have some great surprises awaiting the audience this year - that’s part of the excitement to see it in action. It’s such an interesting process from auditions to opening night. My favorite part of the evening is hearing the audience responding to the cast who are giving it their all, knowing that their efforts at entertaining us are being appreciated. The gala opening night, which we’ve dubbed, “Some Enchanted Evening,” is going to blow your socks off - you definitely don’t want to miss it!”

Ormond and Stagé n explosive serve and a deadly accurate backhand earned Léna Satgé a tennis scholarship to ULM in 2006. Two years later she caught Jake Ormond’s attention at a Fourth of July barbeque. Point! Soon Léna developed an interest in Jake’s passion for competitive bass fishing, and Jake’s tennis skills improved remarkably. Game! After Léna accepted Jake’s engagement ring, the couple flew to Lyon, France, to negotiate her parents’ blessings. Set! The wedding invitations dispersed in March repeated the nuptial details in Armenian, English and French.

On Saturday, June 6, an eclectic, multi-cultural wedding party congregated at Cathédrale Apos-

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tolique Arménienne St. Jacques in Lyon to witness their vows.

Match!

It was the second first marriage for both of them. Léna and Jake first promised to be true on the banks of Bayou DeSiard adjacent to Graceminster Presbyterian Church. Jake’s brother and best man John delivered him to the altar via bass boat. At St. Jacques, Léna’s maternal uncle Sam Basmadjian served as best man and language prompter throughout the Armenian service. Her immediate family, sisters Lara and Démy along with her parents Christian and Elizabeth, all accompanied her down the aisle. The French Open infused excitement into the romantic ambiance created by sunshine

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through stained glass. As three priests chanted the wedding rites, Serena Williams claimed the women’s title in Paris, and several guests eagerly anticipated attending the men’s final the following day.

A bed of blossoming calla lilies stood like an oversized bridal bouquet amidst the garden reception area at Le Domaine de Clairefontaine near Vienne, the bride’s hometown just south of Lyon. Former ULM tennis team members Vivian Polak from The Netherlands and Marion Lehmann from France reminisced with their former teacher, Professor Arturo Rodriquez and his wife Cynthia. Tim Mobley, accompanied by his young daughter Alyson, renewed his

friendship with Elizabeth Satgé whom he met when she visited her daughter in Monroe.

The party moved inside for a dinner of authentic French cuisine followed by dancing. Démy, the de facto wedding planner, arranged seating to encourage cultural exchanges. After the Stradivarius chocolate cake perfected the dining experience, the bride and her father shared the first dance. Soon an Abba medley crowded the floor with revelers.

The newlyweds honeymooned in Paris before returning to Monroe.

C’est l’amour!

Jake is the son of James and Barbara Ormond of Sterlington.

Photography by Sylvain Bouzat.

SHOP BASTROP

In Bastrop, you will find that business is still done by a handshake, and people still smile and wave at one another every time they meet. Our town is a place where new faces are always welcome and we accept new visitors and new residents with open arms. Shop Bastrop today!

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Calendar of Events July 4 Blues, Brews, & BBQ Day at the RiverMarket Time: 10:00am-4:00pm Enjoy this destination to shop and gather on the picturesque Ouachita River. This french-style market has a variety of culture, education and entertainment. The RiverMarket offers produce, artisan handmade items, food, and entertainment in a “town square” setting. Don't miss out on all the fun!

Venue: Downtown RiverMarket Phone: 318-807-9985 Web: downtownrivermarket.com The CenturyLink Star Spangled Spectacular!

Time: 9:00pm It's time to celebrate America's independence! The annual Independence Day fireworks display will be on July 4th, 2015 at 9:00 pm.

Best viewed from downtown Monroe, or close by, the fireworks will be shot from the center of the Endom Bridge! Display begins promptly at 9:00 pm, so don't be late!

Venue: Forsythe Park Admission Cost: Free

Red, White &Brew Pub Crawl Time: 5pm-9:00pm Monroe Renaissance has coordinated a pub-crawl for that last year that has brought hundreds of visitors to downtown to visit pubs, bars and restaurants in downtown Monroe.

Venue: Check in at Park Admission Cost: Free

For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com

July 10-12 South Pacific: The Concert Time: Friday & Saturday 7:00 pm; Sunday Matinee 2:00 pm South Pacific: The Concert, a collaborative effort of the Monroe Symphony Orchestra, Strauss Theatre Center Main Stage and the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council, brings the hit songs from this beloved classic musical to life. From “I’m Gonna Wash that Man Right Outta My Hair” to “There Is Nothing Like a Dame” to “Some Enchanted Evening,” enjoy this rare musical experience featuring the most lyrical and moving music written for the stage. Accompanied by a live orchestra, a top-notch cast of singers will fill ULM’s Brown Theatre with some of the most lyrical and moving music written for the stage.

Venue: ULM Brown’s Auditorium Admission Cost: Ticket prices vary Phone: 318-342-1568

July 11 Thomas Benefit 4D Barrel Run Time: 12:00pm-4:00pm Enjoy watching the 4D Barrel run to benefit Michael (Mike) Thomas, a veteran who has served our country in Iraq and Afghanistan who is currently fighting a new battle with cancer.

Venue: Ike Hamilton Expo Center Arena Admission Cost: $10.00 Sign Up fee per person, $25.00 Entry Fee, $3.00 Exhibition Phone: 318-325-9160 Web: theike.com

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July 11, 18 & 25 Yoga in the Garden Time: 8:00 am The Biedenharn Museum & Gardens will host a morning yoga session in their beautiful gardens.

Stretch and enjoy the beautiful, serenity of their lovely gardens.

Venue: Biedenharn Museum & Gardens Admission Cost: $10 per session Phone: (318) 387-5281 Web: www.bmuseum.org

July 13 ULM Golf Classic at Bayou Desiard CC Time: 8:00am to 5:00pm ULM Golf will host its annual fundraising golf tournament on Monday, July 13, 2015 at Bayou Desiard Country Club. For more information please go to www.ULMwarhawks.com or call 318-342-3579.

Venue: Bayou Desiard Country Club Admission Cost: TBA Phone: 318-342-3579 Web: www.bayoudesiardcc.com

July 17 Idioteque Concert Time: 9:30pm Idioteque, a Radiohead tribute band, will be playing at Enoch's Irish Pub & Cafe on Friday, July 17th.

Venue: Enoch's Irish Pub Phone: 318-388-3662 Web: enochsirishpub.com July 25 The Downtown Cinema Time: Begins at dark-7:30 pm Downtown Cinema is a free outdoor movie event that showcases family friendly movies once a month during the spring and summer. Admission to the movie is free and Downtown Cinema also provides free popcorn and water. Guests only need to bring their own seating!

Venue: Palace Park Admission Cost: Free July 28 Member2Member Expo Time: 9:00am-2:00pm Admission to the Expo is free to the public. Learn more about WMWO Chamber of Commerce members and local businesses in our community. There will also be fun giveaways and door prizes!

Venue: West Monroe Convention Center Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-396-5000 Web: www.westmonroe.com/departments/convention-center

The Ouachita Council on Aging

by Cindy Ingram

The Ouachita Council on Aging, Carolyn Rose Strauss Center had several events recently encouraging healthy lifestyles. The Senior Expo had a wide variety of booths to help seniors get answers to their questions – insurance, social security and funeral home services were among the topics. With the addition of the ULM Pharmacy health checks, the seniors had a busy day. The annual Mulhearn Watermelon party was also a hit with the seniors and COA staff. Along with fun activities and themed parties, seniors have classes at the center that are designed to keep them interacting and active physically.

Ladies Ginny Bagby, Dianne Guillot, Ruth Janes and Louise LaDar

Ethel Thomas and Brenda Davis come daily to the center

COA staff Ruby Crawley Sistrunk and Ernest Jackson

Lynda McGehee OCOA director and Mary Simpson OCOA look at the memorial plaque for Shirley Cagle.

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She credits that success to her bariatric surgeon.

“There are no words that can accurately describe what Dr. Walter Sartor has done for me. He has literally changed my life. I am now able to enjoy and participate in my life. I am truly blessed that I chose him to do my surgery.”

Karen describes her life now as “exciting.”

“My life is great. I have a great job. I am more confident, and I am in a relationship. I love to shop and buy clothes. I enjoy being active. I love not thinking about food all the time. I am so glad that I made myself a priority.”

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. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JULY 2015

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