BayouLife Magazine March 2015 by BayouLife Magazine

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MARCH 2015

18 / AND THE OSCAR GOES TO... Predictions on This Year’s Oscar Winners 34 / FISHING WITH KENNY Subtle Can Mean the World 42 / MEREDITH’S MUSINGS The Demise of the Traditional Family Dinner 46 / BAYOU PAGES When Books Went to War by Molly Guptill Manning 50 / BAYOU KIDZ Coping With Your Child’s Fears 58 / 3 DAYS IN THE WHITE HOUSE Dispatches from Esteli, Nicaragua

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64 / ASK ERIN Organizing With Everyday Items – Southern Style 84 / BAYOU EATS The Fieldhouse Scores Big 102 / LIGHTS, CAMERA, FASHION Sadie Robertson is Styled in Romantic Looks From Area Boutiques 128 / LIFE IN MOTION Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker is Pushing to Transform His Community 142 / IT’S ALL ABOUT DANCE The RDA-SW Dance Festival Will Be Hosted by LDB March 26-28

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150 / DESIGNING DETAILS Gregory Hudgins Designs a Contemporary Home in Monroe 160 / SIT Spring in to This Season With Great Looks From Area Boutiques 172 / P. ALLEN SMITH Spring is in the Air

BayouLife

ARCH IS HERE, AND WE

are looking forward to Spring’s arrival...even though as I’m writing this we are forecasted for snow. On March 26th, we are hosting our 1st Annual BayouLife Magazine Icons Ball. Each

year, BayouLife will select a charity to support with the Icons Ball, a black-tie optional gala event that will honor each of the men and women who have been designated Bayou Icons in the magazine. Proceeds from the 1st Annual Icons Ball will benefit the Cooley House Foundation’s efforts to restore and protect the G.B. Cooley House, which was designed by world-renowned architect Walter Burley Griffin. (See Page 68.) We hope to see you there. Tickets are $75 per person and you can see our list of Icons on page 40. We have a correction in the “Doctor in the House” article that ran in our February issue. We mentioned that U.S. Congressman Ralph Abraham was the subcommittee chairman for General Farm Commodities and Risk Management. He does sit on that subcommittee, but he is not the chairman. He is the chairman of the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs subcommittee within the Veterans Affairs Committee. We have two stunning fashion shoots this month. On pages 160-165, our lovely office manager, Ellie Jackson, models casual Spring looks from area boutiques. A huge thank you to Holly and James McCready at Rain the Salon and Day Spa for hair and makeup and Brad Arender for these amazing photographs. Also, thank you to the fine folks at Inside Indigo for letting us borrow their gorgeous silver stools for the opening shot and the chic black, leather chair.

2107 Honor Street, Suite E Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: 318.855.3185 Fax: 318.855.4645 I was obsessed with Sadie Robertson on the last season of Dancing with the Stars, so it was no surprise that I was a little star-struck when she walked into The Palace for our Lights, Camera, Fashion photo shoot. She is just as charming and humble as her 2Mama, Mrs. Chrys Howard. Thank you to Meka Bennett Reliford for providing gorgeous hair and makeup and to Martin G. Meyers for his incredible photography skills. I grew up thinking Friday Ellis was such a cool guy. And, he’s proving me right even today. Friday, his beautiful wife, Ashley, and a group of friends took off on a trip to Esteli, Nicaragua to tour the A.J. Fernandez Cigar Factory. Michael DeVault writes their story on pages 58-61. Did you know that George Takei is coming to Monroe? I don’t usually mention ads in my publisher’s note, but I am so pumped about this year’s ULM Lyceum speaker’s appearance. See page 120 for more information. Every year, BayouLife Magazine partners with the Monroe/West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau for our cover photo contest. This year, the theme is “Show Me Your BayouLife.” This contest is open to amateur and professional photographers and the Best in Show will be featured on our June cover. See page 179 for details. We truly hope that you enjoy reading this month’s issue of BayouLife Magazine. Please like us on Facebook at BayouLife Magazine, and visit our webpage at www.bayoulifemag.com.

~ Cassie Livingston

WW W. B AYO UL I F EM A G . C O M 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 Yeldell ashley@bayoulifemag.com OFFICE MANAGER Ellie Jackson ellie@bayoulifemag.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Maré Brennan Kenny Covington Bill Dye Dr. David Finley Cindy Gist Foust Linda Holyfield Kathryn Joyce Trent Livingston Erin Love Casey Matthews John Nelson McAdams Meredith McKinnie Dr. Timothy Mickel Mary Napoli Melissa Sanderlin Delia Simpson P. Allen Smith Brenda Tarver Beatrice A. Tatem Marlen Waters CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Martin G Meyers Scarlett Holland ON THE COVER Lights, Camera, Fashion, page 102 Cover Photography by Martin G Meyers Model: Sadie Robertson Hair and Makeup: Meka Bennett Reliford

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

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. Glenwood recognizes the need for comprehensive heart care, from diagnostic and intervention to rehabilitation and prevention. For this reason, we are the provider of some of the most advanced cardiac care in our region. We are also the local cause sponsor for 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, CV-ICU, DVT Clinic and surgeon's clinic are all located on one floor within the hospital. The proximity and comprehensiveness of these services ensures a high quality of care.

DIAGNOSTIC CARDIOLOG 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

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

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• Clot Removal for Heart and Vascular Blockages • Peripheral Arterial Angioplasty and Stenting • Renal Artery Stenting

CARDIAC - PULMONARY REHABILITATION CENTER Glenwood’s new Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center will officially open at 2:00pm on Thursday, March 5th with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Open House. The public is invited to take a tour, meet the staff and enjoy refreshments. The Center will offer customized programs including exercise, nutrition, education and support groups designed to help cardiac-pulmonary patients become independent, self-assured and able to resume normal daily activities. The Cardiac Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center is located at Glenwood Medical Mall in Suite 609 near Entrance 1.

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 easy-to-take, noninvasive 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 services, call 877-726-WELL or visit us online at www.grmc.com.

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Riders, Travelers, Moons and Rivers What’s New on the Beer Horizon

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

Rebel Rider IPA The newest offering from Sam Adams is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Bursting with bright citrus and tropical fruit notes of apricot and tangerine, with hints of pine and a slight resinous character, this brew brings a lighter-bodied sibling to our Rebel family of IPAs. This IPA finishes with just enough subtle bitterness to bring you back for another sip. Brewed with Citra, Topaz, Cascade, Centennial and Simcoe hops, Rebel Rider IPA is a year round brew available in stores now.

Meet the Travelers Traveler Beer has arrived to take you on a trip from here to refreshing. It’s a satisfying trip; a quick one that starts the moment that first sip hits your taste buds. A sophisticated blend of carefully crafted American wheat ale with fresh and refreshing ingredients. What ingredients? Well, that depends on what kind of traveler you are. Curious Traveler is a take on a classic European Shandy that has been brewed for generations. This brew starts with an American craft wheat ale, which delivers a crisp, light body, then adds in fresh lemon and just a touch of lime to bring out the bright, juicy citrus aroma and flavor. Illusive Traveler is a deceptively delicious

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wheat beer brewed with real grapefruit. This refreshing elixir delivers a satisfying citrus aroma and flavor then quickly disappears, leaving you searching for another. Forbidden Traveler, a seasonal offering, is a crisp, wheat beer brewed with real apple. Its bright effervescence will catch your eye, while its refreshing aroma will tempt your senses. It’s here for the picking, just take a sip. All three are available now. Be on the lookout for more seasonal offerings as the year goes on.

Blue Moon White IPA For its white IPA, the brew masters at Blue Moon wanted to combine the citrus flavors of an IPA with the smooth, balanced malts of a Belgian white Belgian-Style Wheat Ale. They began by experimenting with hop after hop until they found the perfect combination of four hops, including a rare German hop, called Huell Melon. The result is a pronounced citrus and fruity hop taste, perfectly balanced by wheat, coriander and orange peel. Hoppy. Unfiltered. Balanced. It brings the best of two styles together to craft an IPA with a unique twist. Consider pairing it with bold, flavorful seafood dishes, spicy Mexican food and strong cheeses such as sharp cheddar and blue cheese. Blue Moon

White IPA will be available in stores year round starting this April.

Yalobusha River Ale Choice Brands could not be more proud to welcome Yalobusha Brewing Company to our craft lineup. Located in Water Valley, MS, in a steel fabrication plant from the 1860’s, this place has got as much character as the beer and its brewers. Head brewer, Amos Harvey, has been involved in many ventures. In the 90’s, he was part of the founding of Fat Possum Records. He was the “go-to” tour manager for music acts such as R.L. Burnside, Junior Kimbrough and T. Model Ford. His first love, though, was brewing beer, so he left to begin a career doing just that. After some time in Idaho and a stint at Louisiana’s own Abita Brewing Company, he made his way back home to Mississippi to brew up Yalobusha River Ale. A hybrid of an American Pale Ale and a Pilsner, this is a crisp, refreshing ale balanced with a smooth and slightly citrus hop character. River Ale is currently available on draft at select locations. Keep an eye out for more offerings from Yalobusha, including some exciting small batch brews!

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Your Hearing Health

How Your Hearing Health Contributes to Your Overall Well-Being

O LIVE BETTER. TO BE HEALTHY AND HAPPY. IT’S what we strive for at Audibel because your hearing health contributes to your overall well-being and quality of life. Hearing loss is the third most prevalent chronic condition in older Americans, after hypertension and arthritis. With one in three people over the age of 60 and one in five teenagers affected by hearing loss, it is proof that anyone at any age could benefit from the use of hearing aids. A combination of factors typically contribute to hearing loss and some causes of hearing loss include: • Age Related – A result of the aging process or extended exposure to environmental noise factors throughout a lifetime that can cause permanent change in the inner ear • Noise Induced – Damage to hair cells and cochlea, that occurs suddenly or gradually. Approximately 26 million Americans between the ages of 20 and 69 have high-frequency hearing loss. • Drug Related – There are over 200 known prescription and over-thecounter medications on the market today that are toxic to the ears.

Many people do not realize that your hearing is connected to your overall health, and there are many risk factors that can affect hearing loss. Some of those risk factors include: • Smoking – Current smokers have a 70 percent higher risk to have hearing loss than nonsmokers. • Diabetes – Hearing loss is about twice as common in people with diabetes compared to those without the disease. • Heart Health – The inner ear is extremely sensitive to blood flow and studies have shown that a healthy cardiovascular system has a positive effect on hearing. Conversely, inadequate blood flow and trauma to the blood vessels of the inner ear can contribute to hearing loss. • Hypertension – There is a significant association between high blood pressure and hearing loss, and hypertension is an accelerating factor of degeneration of the hearing apparatus due to aging. 12 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

Aging also brings cognitive processing deficits that interfere with communication and can create distractions that effect a person’s life that include: • Memory – Adults with hearing loss are more likely to develop problems thinking and remembering than adults with normal hearing. Adults with hearing loss develop a significant impairment in their cognitive abilities and experience a 30 to 40 percent greater decline in thinking abilities compared to their counterparts without hearing loss. • Dementia – Seniors with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia over time than those who retain their hearing. • Falling – People with mild hearing loss are three times more likely to have a history of falling. • Mental Health – Hearing loss results in social isolation and left untreated, patients tend to withdraw from engaging with friends and family. Adults, 50 years and older, with untreated hearing loss are more likely to report depression, anxiety, anger and frustration, emotional instability and paranoia. While it does sound like all bad news, there is good news. We can help! A simple hearing test and video otoscopy can answer a lot of questions about your hearing. We will have a consultation about options to get you on the right track to improve your speech understanding and to make listening in group situations less fatiguing and more enjoyable. We will discuss technologies and fitting options to best fit your lifestyle and budget. Audibel The Hearing Center is Northeast Louisiana’s Audibel dispenser. Cherry Phillips, “The Hearing Lady,” has been serving this area for over 25 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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Selling Your Home 29 Tips That Get Homes Sold Fast: Part 1

BY KATHRYN JOYCE, REALTOR

ELLING YOUR HOME IS ONE OF the most important steps in your life. We'd like to share some essential tips that will help you sell your home quickly, and for top dollar. For most people, selling their home means cashing in their biggest asset. In other words, it must be handled with great care if you hope to protect—and capitalize on—your investment. This guide was written with one goal in mind: to give you the tools you need to maximize your profits, maintain control and reduce the stress that comes with the home-selling process.

TIP #1 - Know why you're selling. The reason you look closely at why you want to sell is that your motivations play an important role in the process. They affect everything from setting a price, to deciding how much time and money you’ll invest to get your home ready for selling. For example, what’s more important to you: the money you walk away with, or the length of time your property is on the market? If your goal is a quick sale, that can dictate one kind of approach. If you want to maximize your profit, the sales process will almost certainly take longer.

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Your reasons will affect how you negotiate the sale of your home, but they shouldn’t be given as ammunition to the person who wants to buy it. For example, a prospective buyer who knows you must move quickly has you at their mercy in the negotiation process. When asked, simply say that your housing needs have changed. Your reasons are nobody’s business but your own.

TIP #3 - Do your homework before setting a price. Settling on an offering price shouldn’t be done lightly. Once you’ve set your price, you have told buyers the absolute maximum they have to pay for your home. The trick for the seller is to get a selling price as close to the offering price as possible. If you start out by pricing too high, you might not be taken seriously by prospective buyers and their agents. A price too low can result in selling for much less than you had hoped for. Setting your home’s sale price can be a fairly easy process. If you live in a subdivision comprised of homes with similar or identical floor plans, built in the same time period, then all you have to do is look at recent sales in the neighborhood to give you a good ballpark figure. But many people live in older neighborhoods that have

changed quite a bit over the years. Every home in your neighborhood may be different in minor or substantial ways—the house next door may have added another bedroom, for example. You may find that there aren’t any homes that are truly comparable to your own. If you decide to sell your home on your own, the most common way to set a value is to look at homes that have sold in your neighborhood within the past six to 12 months, as well as those now on the market. That’s certainly how prospective buyers will assess the worth of your home. You can usually learn what homes have sold for in your neighborhood by making a trip to City Hall. If this sounds like a lot of work, you may decide to hire a Realtor®. Your Realtor® will do all the market research and provide you with comps showing where your home should be priced to best meet your goals—a fast sell, maximum profit, etc. 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) 3884663. To see what home prices are like in your neighborhood, visit our website www.perryresidential.com Stay tuned for more tips next month!

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Protect Your Eyes from the Sun Haik Humble Eye Center

E ALL USE SUNSCREEN TO protect our skin, but don’t forget to protect your eyes as well. Sun damage to eyes can occur anytime during the year, not just in the summertime. Over time, the effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays may increase the risk for a number of eye problems.

What eye problems can UV rays cause? • Macular Degeneration - UV rays may lead to macular degeneration, a degenerative eye condition that causes progressive loss of central vision. • Cataract - UV rays may contribute to cataracts. A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, the part of the eye that focuses the light we see. • Pterygium - This growth begins on the white of the eye and may involve the cornea. Eventually, the growth may block vision. It is more common in people who work outside in the sun and wind. • Skin Cancer - Skin cancer around the eyelids is also linked to prolonged UV exposure. • Corneal Sunburn - Corneal sunburn, called photokeratitis, is the result of high short-term exposure to UV-B rays. Long hours at the beach or skiing without proper eye protection can cause this problem. It can be very painful and may cause temporary vision loss. Diseases like cataract and eye cancers can take many years to develop, but each time we're out in the sun without protection, we could be adding damage that adds to our risks for these serious disorders. 16 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

Who's at Risk for Eye Damage from the Sun? Yes, everyone (including children) is at risk for eye damage from UV radiation that can lead to vision loss. Any factor that increases the amount of time you spend in the sun will increase your risk. Babies and kids need to wear hats and sunglasses for this very reason. People of all ages should take precautions whenever they are outdoors.

The risk of sun related eye problems is higher for people who: • spend long hours in the sun • have had cataract surgery or have certain retina disorders. (If you have had cataract surgery, you may be more at risk of injury from sunlight unless the artificial lens you received during surgery absorbs UV rays.) • are on photosensitizing medicines, such as tetracycline, sulfa drugs, birth control pills, diuretics and certain tranquilizers.

How to Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays • Use eyewear that absorbs UV rays - Eyewear that absorbs UV rays gives you the most protection. All types of eyewear, including prescription and non-prescription glasses, contact lenses and lens implants, should absorb UV-A and UV-B rays. For protection in everyday eyewear, there are several options like UV-blocking lens materials, coatings and photochromic lenses. • Wear a brimmed hat or cap - A wide brimmed hat or cap will block about half of UV rays. It can also limit UV rays that hit the eyes from above or around glasses. Don't be fooled by clouds: the sun's rays can

pass through haze and thin clouds. Never look directly at the sun. Looking directly at the sun at any time, including during an eclipse, can lead to solar retinopathy.

Choosing Sunglasses Sunglasses should be worn when you are outdoors so you can protect your eyes. They filter light and they protect your eyes from damaging UV rays. Wear sunglasses labeled “100% UV protection": Use only glasses that block both UV-A and UV-B rays and that are labeled either UV400 or 100% UV protection.

Tips when trying on a pair of sunglasses: • Frames should fit snuggly on your nose and ears, but not pinch or rub. • Your eyelashes should not contact the frame. • Wrap-around lenses block more of the light hitting your eyes from the side. They improve aerodynamics, cutting down on wind that can dry out your eyes, and provide extra protection against rain, sand and other debris • Different lens shapes complement the most common face shapes—oval, square, triangular and round.

Are Pricey Sunglasses Worth It? A $20 pair of sunglasses can look pretty similar to a $150 pair, so why pay more? The difference is in the technology, which offers more comfort, durability and performance. For around-town wear and while driving, an inexpensive casual pair may be all that you need. But for regular outdoor activities, performance sunglasses are usually well worth the investment.

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And The Oscar Goes To... Predictions On This Year’s Oscar Winners find it more difficult to watch the Oscars broadcast as I get older. Part of it is the fact that awards ceremonies are ubiquitous - throw a rock at the TV January through March, and you're going to hit a well-dressed celebrity holding a gold statuette. Part of it is the current toxicity of celebrity culture...and the fact that my priorities and energy have been redirected with two small kids in the house. Before I start sounding like someone screaming at the kids to get off my lawn, I'll state something for the record - I still love movies. Love them. I find just as much joy in watching Michael Keaton chew into the meat of Birdman as I did watching a spaceship cameo in The Lego Movie. But do the politics of Oscar campaigns match up to the artistic effort they showcase? I'll find out February 22nd.

BEST ACTOR Steve Carrell, Foxcatcher Bradley Cooper, American Sniper Benedict Cumberbatch, The Intimidation Game Michael Keaton, Birman Eddie Redmayne, The Theory of Everything 18 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

by John Nelson McAdams

Who will win? Keaton. Who should win? Keaton. Why? Birdman is such an odd film. Theoretically, a movie about the personal and professional relationships under stress from the preparations of a Broadway opening night...it could have been too “showbiz.” What it turned out to be was Michael Keaton going meta on the back of a 20th century franchise to show us how we live and work in the 21st. Although any one of the nominees would be a front runner in any other nominee year, Birdman and Keaton's performance will be studied for a long time to come.

BEST ACTRESS Marion Cotilliard, Two Days One Night Felicity Jones, The Theory of Everything

Julianne Moore, Still Alice Rosamund Pike, Gone Girl Reese Witherspoon, Wild Who will win? Moore. Who should win? Moore. Why? This is a situation where politics of the moment and merit of the career work in Moore's favor. She's been Oscar-nominated four times prior, and her performance in Still Alice is proof that she is her generation's answer to the question "Who is left after Meryl Streep?" The Oscar is hers.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR Robert Duvall, The Judge Ethan Hawke, Boyhood Edward Norton, Birdman Mark Ruffalo, Foxcatcher

Who will win? Norton. Who should win? Hawke. Why? Norton hilariously plays to the perception of his public persona in Birdman. He's cocky, needy, egocentric and eminently watchable. He will probably win. Ethan Hawke internally held a character within himself for 12 years, and was one of the (very shaky) moral centers of the yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best film. Norton's performance is the showy zeitgeist of the moment. Hawke's performance is low key and non-descript and anchors the film completely.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS Patricia Arquette, Boyhood Laura Dern, Wild Keira Knightley, The Intimidation Game Emma Stone, Birdman Meryl Streep, Into the Woods Who will win: Arquette. Who should win: Arquette. Why? In the last 20 minutes of Boyhood, Arquette's character talks to her son about everything they had been through and what had happened to their time together. I won't spoil what she says, but no other nominee has a moment delivered as powerfully and truthfully as that one. BEST DIRECTOR Alejandro G. Inarritu, Birdman Richard Linklater, Boyhood Bennett Miller, Foxcatcher Wes Anderson, The Grand Budapest Hotel Morten Tyldum, The Intimidation Game Who will win: Inarritu or Linklater. Who should win: Inarritu or Linklater. Why? This is the toughest category of the year. Neither of the films could have been directed by anyone else, which may be the question to ask when you determine merit in that category. Without question or hesitation, Birdman is THE technically superior film of the year. On the other hand, Boy-

hood turned the question of its long production schedule into the answer of the question it was asking. I really don't know who will win in this category, but both directors deserve recognition and respect.

BEST PICTURE American Sniper Birdman Boyhood The Grand Budapest Hotel The Imitation Game Selma The Theory of Everything Whiplash Who will win: Boyhood. Who should win: Boyhood. Why? On the outside looking in, Boyhood fills all the criteria for art you're supposed to chew and swallow like a vegetable. It's a small budget indie film with one or two well-known actors and a long run time. If you saw it at the video store, you would look at the box, read the blurb and (probably) put it back on the shelf. Boyhood was filmed a week at a time, once a year every year for 13 years. When you see the actors age, particularly the lead actor Ellar Coltrane, that is not a special effect. No other film in the history of cinema has been produced like Boyhood, but that's the anecdote. The achievement of Boyhood is this: it shows in real time just what growing up is. It shows that leap between 10 years old and 11 years old and so on and so forth. It's funny and sad and painful and joyful all at once, just like what it's conveying. When John Nelson isn't stepping on dropped LEGO bricks and cursing his children, he can be reached at utfluke@yahoo.com.

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Difficult Situations Helping Loved Ones with Mental Illness

BY MELISSA SANDERLIN, LPC NCC

CCORDING TO RECENT RESEARCH, 1 IN 4 ADULTS IN America is diagnosed with a mental illness at some point in their lives. Most of us know someone dealing with some type of mental or emotional disorder such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia or post-traumatic stress. Sometimes we don’t know how to help or support those loved ones though, and we often do nothing from fear of worsening a problem. I would like to share some of the advice I give to those that ask me for guidance in these difficult situations. • Be compassionate. Try to imagine how they may feel and what they may be going through. Unfortunately, mental illness is still stigmatized in our society, and many people feel ashamed and embarrassed by their illness. Reminding yourself of these things can help you be more understanding of what they are experiencing. • Accept the problem and diagnosis. Pretending a problem does not exist does not make it magically go away. Just as ignoring a medical condition such as diabetes or high cholesterol will only worsen the condition, ignoring a mental condition will only result in exacerbating the problem. • Be patient…with yourself and your loved one. There is no timeline for recovery or remission. Trying to create a timeline will only put pressure on you as a support, and on the person working towards getting better. • If trying to convince a loved one to seek treatment, be careful to use a balanced amount of encouragement. You want them to know you recognize a problem, but you do not want to push so hard that they withdraw completely. When people feel judged or attacked, they become defensive and difficult to reason with. • Do not argue with the person you are trying to help and support. Discuss things openly and as calmly as possible. Give them specific examples of behaviors or symptoms you see from them that support your case for treatment. • Ask them what you can do to help. We all have different needs. Some people just need to know they have supportive friends and family. 22 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

•

• •

Some people need motivation and strong encouragement. Depending on the insight they have into their own illness, they may have suggestions for what you can do. Or they may ask you to leave them alone. If it’s the latter, step back, but do not give up. Know the difference between supporting and enabling loved ones. Supporting is helping them help themselves and letting them know you care. Enabling is making excuses for their behaviors, bailing them out of problems repeatedly or trying to “fix” the problem. Enabling only makes matters worse by teaching them that there is always someone there to clean up their mess. Don’t ignore threats or life-risking behavior. Sometimes we assume people are doing things for attention, but that only proves they need help. And just because the threat is for attention, does not mean they will not carry out the threat. If your loved one is talking about suicide, homicide or behaving so erratically that they can not be reasoned with, then action needs to be taken immediately. If they are willing, take them to the emergency room. If not, call 911 so the police can assist. A lot of people are afraid of making a loved one angry for taking them to the hospital, but it very well could save his/her life. And you certainly do not want to feel responsible if you do not act and something happens. In my experience, very few people that have been hospitalized deny they needed it after the fact. Help them locate resources and information. Dialing 211 gives you information on many local resources for many types of assistance. Help them find doctors or counselors. The National Institute of Mental Health (http://www.nimh.nih.gov) has a wealth of information, as well as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (http://www.samhsa.gov). Don’t be afraid to seek help for yourself. Support groups and counseling can assist you in dealing with the stress. And the healthier you are, the more capable you are of helping others. Most of all, believe your support matters even if you do not immediately see gratitude.

Technology for the Cure Delhi Hospital: The first in the region to offer 3D mammography.

SISTER. A DAUGHTER. A MOTHER. A wife. Cancer does not care when or who it strikes. Breast cancer specifically can be remarkably adept at hiding so early detection is vital in the ongoing fight against the disease. Thankfully, innovative technology continues to emerge that is finding new ways to overcome this challenge. Delhi Hospital is proud to be one of the first healthcare providers in the region to offer the latest in state-of-the art breast cancer screening. The Radiology Department at Delhi Hospital is announcing the addition of Digital Breast Tomosynthesis, also known as 3D Mammography, which is being used to detect cancer in its earliest stages. 3D mammography is the most accurate breast cancer screening available anywhere, and we are proud to offer this lifesaving service to our community. Research has discovered that cancers found during early screening exams are often small in size and still confined to the breast as compared to those found later. When considering both factors of the size and spread of breast cancer - the most important predictors of prognosis for women with the disease - early detection has become a strategic focal point in cancer prevention and care. Mammography itself continues to be an extremely valuable tool in this battle. The current gold standard is 2D digital mammography. Although this digital mammo-

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gram is successful in identifying a large number of cancers, it still has its limitations. With conventional 2D mammography, the radiologist is viewing all the complexities of your breast tissue in one flat image. These flat images can be challenging to interpret because some of the tissues may overlap and obscure cancerous areas. The FDA approved the use of the Hologic Breast Tomosynthesis in February of 2011 and with it the ability to go beyond the flat image. Tomosynthesis uses high-powered computing to convert digital breast images into a stack of very thin layers or â&#x20AC;&#x153;slicesâ&#x20AC;?- building what is essentially a 3-Dimensional mammogram. These one millimeter slices provide greater visibility for the radiologist to see breast detail in a way never before possible. They can scroll through images of your entire breast like pages of a book. Instead of viewing the complexities of your breast tissue in a flat image, the doctor can examine the tissue a millimeter at a time. Fine details are more clearly visible, no longer hidden by the tissue above and below. There is no additional compression for the patient and only takes a few seconds longer than the traditional mammogram-but provides a wealth of information to the radiologist. Most importantly, 3D mammography can detect 40% more small, invasive cancers that are missed with the conventional 2D

mammogram. These precise 3D images reveal small breast tumors when they are easier to treat. The accuracy of this technology also benefits women with dense breast tissue or breast implants that can be more difficult to screen with traditional 2D mammography. Also, these superior 3D images aid doctors in determining the difference between breast tumors and harmless areas that might have looked like a problem on a standard mammography image. This results in fewer callbacks for additional mammograms and other procedures like breast biopsy or ultrasoundâ&#x20AC;Ś and that means less stress and more peace of mind for you. The fight against breast cancer takes a huge leap forward with the availability of breast tomosynthesis. With fewer false positives and the ability to detect a greater number of small invasive breast cancers, Delhi Hospital will continue to do their part in saving lives with the implementation of 3D mammography. We are proud to take the lead in breast imaging by offering this unprecedented technology to the women of our community. Contact us at (318) 878-5171 to schedule your 3D mammogram today. Earlier detection-fewer false alarms. The test matters. Learn more at www.delhihospital.com.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

West Side Story A Fresh Approach to the Broadway Classic

HE MUSIC OF LEONARD BERNSTEIN AND LYRICS OF Stephen Sondheim explode onto the stage this spring in West Side Story at the University of Louisiana at Monroe. The School of Visual and Performing Arts promises a fresh approach to the story through the creative mind of Director and Choreographer Robin Stephens, who has directed several productions at ULM, including last year’s very successful Into The Woods. This award-winning musical is set in 1950’s New York City, as bitter tensions between rival street gangs threaten to tear apart their neighborhood somewhere in the West Side. Tony, former member of the Jets, feels that he’s left the gang life behind, and knows there’s more to life ahead (“Somethin’s Comin.’”) Tony is recruited by Riff, leader of the Jets, to challenge the Sharks to a fight (“Dance at the Gym.”). There, Tony meets Maria, fresh off the boat from Puerto Rico for an arranged marriage. Their instant and passionate love for each other is a stark contrast to the passionate hatred between the two gangs. As the Jets and the Sharks prepare for an all-out war, Tony and Maria plan a life together, against the wishes of her brother (“Tonight”). The conflict sizzles as each side makes choices that decide the fate of the two young lovers, and this epic story of love and danger hurtles to its exciting conclusion. The conflict between the Caucasian Jets and Puerto Rican Sharks echoes modern day racial strife in Ferguson, Missouri and New York City. Stephens explains that the story has just as much to say about race relations today as it did the day it premiered. “West Side Story opened on Broadway nearly 60 years ago and still has a message and relevance to today's generation,” said Stephens. “Our multicultural student cast gets it. We are stronger together than we are separately. It’s such a joy to see them go at it dramatically as Sharks and Jets in the play and then join hands in support of each other off the stage.” The creation of the original production is an extraordinary collaboration between men now known as legends in American musical the-

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atre. Broadway director Jerome Robbins defined the new work as an experiment between himself, a choreographer; playwright Arthur Laurents, lyricist Stephen Sondheim, and composer Leonard Bernstein. At ULM, Brown Auditorium tingles with the energy of the incredible dance numbers inspired by Jerome Robbins’ original choreography, such as “Dance at the Gym,” “America” and “Cool.” The music crackles with the passion of young love and the fire of a generation protecting what they believe is rightfully theirs. Derle Long, director of the School of Visual and Performing Arts at ULM, said the cast and crew are hard at work on the action, the songs, the scenery, and the costumes to ensure that West Side Story continues in the exciting tradition of ULM Musical Theater. “West Side Story is one of the iconic works in the history of Broadway,” said Long. “It’s a contemporary look at the story of Romeo and Juliet, a forbidden romance that happened despite obstacles, and a tragic story of lovers from two different worlds.” The performance Saturday night, March 28 features an additional treat in the KEDM Director’s Gala at 5 p.m.. The ULM Sculpture Garden is the scene set for a “rumble” with flavors of Puerto Rico. The menu includes traditional cultural cuisine as well as choices to fit local taste buds, like arroz con pollo (jerk chicken with rice), asopao (hearty gumbo), rincon fish tacos, a caribbean pasta and seafood salad, with tropical fruit and coconut desserts. Fiesta Nutrition Center and Chef Eric Johnson are among several local businesses donating the menu. Chip Strode will delight patrons with a signature piña colada. Beer and wine will also be served. Tickets to the KEDM Director’s Gala are $45, and include preferred seating for Saturday’s performance. Performances are March 26-28 at 7:30 p.m., with Saturday’s Gala beginning at 5 p.m., and Sunday, March 29, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 and are available at www.ulm.edu/vapa or at the box office at 318342-1414.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

River Oaks Seniors Excel Graduation Just the Beginning for Elite Group

OR MOST STUDENTS, GRADUATION marks the closing of one chapter and the beginning of the next. But for students at River Oaks School, the end of the senior year is indeed something more, the culmination of a series of achievements that underscore the solid professional and academic foundations the students have built at River Oaks. With a senior class ACT average of 24.1, the level of achievement is apparent. It is exceedingly apparent in the twelve seniors of the 2015 graduating class who scored a 25 or higher on the ACT. If scholastic achievements were their sole focus, this accomplishment would be notable; however, these students have excelled outside the classroom as members of the student body and the community at large. Cole DeWitt graduates as a member of National Honor Society, Interact, the FCS, Book Club, FBLA and as treasurer of the Student Council. He also played football and soccer, participated in Quiz Bowl, Literary Rally and ABC Rally. Cole has also reached his goal of becoming an Eagle Scout. For Abby Hicks, soccer, cheerleading, tennis and basketball are just a part of her experience. She also served on the Student Council, is a member of National Honor Society and placed 2nd in French at Literary Rally. Abby’s classmate, Tommy Johnson, is Student Council president, a FBLA member, a National Honor Society inductee and played baseball, football and basketball. Tommy has also been awarded the Honesty and Integrity Award by the Masonic Lodge for exhibiting these exemplary characteristics.

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Mary Faith McCormick participated in Interact and cheerleading. Her achievements secured her spot in National Honor Society and garnered the Civics Award and Algebra II Award. Haley Morris works diligently and is a member of National Honor Society, Interact Club and Student Council. Her hard work and dedication were just some of the reasons that she was awarded the Headmasters’ Award and the Student of the Year by Headmaster Dr. Tom Middleton. Haley was also chosen to represent River Oaks at Girls’ State. For classmate Bailey Richardson, Interact, Student Council, Future Business Leaders of America, dance team and cheerleading were just part of her high school journey. She also serves as the secretary of the senior class. Bailey placed 1st in French II at Literary Rally. Mariah Rogers made her mark on the field of play, competing in track, softball, basketball and soccer. As cheer captain, she demonstrated a natural leadership that will serve her well in life. Mariah presently serves as the senior class president and is a member of National Honor Society. For Kyle Rugg, those leadership skills developed as Drumline captain and a term as president of the Fellowship of Christian Students. Kyle is also a member of the National Honor Society, the track team and he played basketball during his high school years. Hard work paid off for Shelby Sheppard who, as a member of Student Council, National Honor Society, Interact and the French Club, put forth tireless effort to succeed and inspire. Ath-

letically, Shelby could be found playing basketball and soccer, running track and swimming. Somehow she found the time to be a part of the Pyrenees Club, the Quiz Bowl team and serve as president of FCS. A series of firsts marked the senior year of Shaji Ul-Islam, who took home top spots in Geometry and Pre-Calculus at the LSU State Literary Rally. A Quiz Bowl team member, Shaji also participated in soccer, football, National Honor Society, Mu Apha Theta, Interact and the Chess Club. Shaji’s chess-mate Alyssa Vingiello served as class secretary and is also an active member of Interact. Alyssa is also a member of Fellowship of Christian Students as well as National Honor Society. Ben Zollinger was captain of the Quiz Bowl team, played football, soccer and golf. He is a member of the National Honor Society, FBLA and Student Council. He is a National Merit finalist and all of his activities have led to his being a 4-time Ideal Student of the Year Award recipient. Ben has also dedicated many years to becoming an Eagle Scout. In the case of each of these students, as well as the other students in the 2015 graduating class, this school service was matched or exceeded off campus, too, as they volunteered for the Food Bank, Race For the Cure, Special Olympics, St. Vincent de Paul’s and a host of other local service organizations. River Oaks School is proud to honor all of our seniors, and that is because we understand the hard work, determination and service that make them Mustangs.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

Super Women

Women Who Have Left a Huge Impact on My Life

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

RACE, WILLIE, CORNELLIA, Claudia, Lya, Daisy, Kerri, Vivian, Geneva, Vanessa, JoAnn, Gloria, Valerie, Linda, Madelyn, Helen, Maya, Kathy, Teresita, Holly, Aretina, Francis, Marcia, Kimberly, Orniece, Dorothy, Velora, Rosie, Thelma, Millie, Toni, Chris, Terrie, Cirecie, Sabrina, Elfredia, Marlene, Doris, Margie, Margaret, Oprah, Freddie, Cynthia, Thelma, Kiona, Barbara, Diane, Winnie, Elease, Rosa, Mary, Wayvette, Betty, Pearl, Joyce, Iris, Cheryl, Michelle, Shellie, Birdell, Leslie, Anita, Nadine, Coretta, Brenda, Hillary, Anita, Angela, Beatrice. This is a list of names of women who came to my mind when preparing to write about women who are super. A list of women young and old, some new in my life, some who have been in my life since the start. Most of these women are alive, while others remain alive in memories. Possibly one of these names holds special meaning for you? Perhaps, you see your name? The sociological definition of “super women” is a woman with super human powers or a woman who works hard and performs well in managing her various roles. Some hear super woman and think of the fictitious comic book character “Lois Lane.” My definition of super women is found in the names listed above, “real” women doing real things; super in their own right. My super women are women of all ethnic, racial, nationalities and cultural groups. They are all 30 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

ages, sizes, shapes, hues, with different values, talents and interest. They maintain different lifestyles, religious beliefs and practices. They represent various careers. These women are social workers, psychologists, counselors, teachers, scholars, artists, home makers, ministers, doctors, lawyers, nurses, politicians, engineers, entrepreneurs, actresses, civil right leaders, media personalities, administrators and writers. They are mothers, “other mothers,” mothers without giving birth, Godmothers, Grandmothers, single mothers, wives, nieces, sisters, sorority sisters and best friends. These women are neighbors, leaders, legends, believers, advocates, visionaries, survivors, volunteers, role models and mentors. They are creators and architects of society. Each March the nation recognizes Women’s History Month. This year also marks the 35th anniversary of the National Women’s Movement. When joining those celebrating the contributions of women, I am compelled to acknowledge women and how they impact my being. My respect for women was crafted by well intended elders who exposed me to the actions and experiences of women. Women have made an indelible impression on me without knowing it, some without knowing me. Some are personal acquaintances, others are admired from a distance through the work they do and the contributions they make. These women empowered me to think beyond what I wanted to be to what I was going to do in life. In-

credible women of substance who through their actions model the importance of positioning oneself, so when “opportunity knocks,” you are ready. These are women who share their struggles for others to learn and grow. These women help others bounce back from challenge and adversity, because they can see what goodness awaits them. They have led movements demonstrating uncanny strength and emotional tenacity. Some remain behind the scenes without fame yet make a difference. The work of a therapist provides the opportunity of interacting with “real” women performing a multitude of roles. Unlike the fictitious character these super women are not perfect nor do they have a perfect existence. These exemplary women sometimes tower in their roles laying strong foundations yet are vulnerable to human casualties of life. Their stories of triumphs and failure are rich and powerful. These women often utilize counseling for greater understanding in hopes of realizing their dreams for self and others. These women proactively preserve and protect their mental health. Insightful women who realize when women take care of their mental health they are taking care of the health of society. Stories from super women have resulted in valuable life lessons. Some of the lessons are: Share your wisdom. Seek what is right and good for you. Know your truth. Accept who you are at all times. When balancing your various roles, be sure to be in tune with Continued On Page 76

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

Glenwood Medical Group Quality Doctors You Expect. Compassionate Care You Deserve.

LENWOOD MEDICAL GROUP recruits and employs highly qualified and skilled physicians with diverse medical specialties to support Glenwood Regional Medical Center. Working together, we are making a difference in the lives of our patients, our hospital and our community.

BRAIN & SPINE SURGERY Jorge Alvernia, MD Dr. Alvernia is an exceptionally skilled surgeon, concentrating in the area of brain tumors, nerve disorders and spinal conditions. He completed his residency at Tulane University and earned his brain tumors fellowship in Lyon, France. He is a member of multiple international neurological societies and has published numerous articles in medical peer review journals and chapters in neurosurgery textbooks.

HEART & VASCULAR SURGERY Harry Donias, MD Dr. Donias’ services include mitral valve, tricuspid valve and aortic valve repair or replacement, on and off pump coronary artery bypass, proximal aortic and arch pathology, surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation, lung and esophageal cancer, aneurysms, peripheral revascularization and carotid stenosis, as well as minimally invasive and endovascular techniques. EAR, NOSE & THROAT Brent Metts, MD, PhD

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Dr. Metts is one of the few surgeons in the nation who are fellowship trained in minimally invasive and endoscopic assisted thyroid and parathyroid surgeries. His services include sinus disease, balloon sinuplasty, thyroid disease, hearing loss, voice care, sleep apnea, throat problems, tonsilliti and ear infections.

GLENWOOD FOOT & ANKLE David Gardner, DPM Dr. Gardner specializes in bunions, hammer toes, flat foot, Achilles tendonitis, toenail fungus, ingrown toenails, heel pain, neuromas, corns, calluses, warts, deformities, geriatric conditions, diabetic foot conditions and sports injuries of the lower legs and feet. He also provides wound care treatment weekly at Glenwood’s Hyperbaric and Wound Care Center.

GENERAL SURGERY Frank Sanfiel, MD Dr. Sanfiel specializes in hernia repair, breast surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, skin and soft tissue infections and other common surgical interventions.

GENERAL SURGERY & WOUND CARE Russell T. Lolley, MD Dr. Lolley is the Medical Director of Glenwood’s Hyperbaric & Wound Care Center. The Center offers transcutaneous oxygen monitoring, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, wound debridement, specialty wound dressing and skin grafts, compression therapies and diabetic foot care.

INTERNAL MEDICINE & PREVENTIVE CARDIOLOGY Alyce Adams, MD Dr. Adams has been a certified Diabetes Educator who specializes in diabetes, hypertension and preventive cardiology. She also offers EKGs, stress tests and echocardiograms. FAMILY & INTERNAL MEDICINE Roland Ponarski, MD Dr. Ponarski specializes in diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. In addition, he offers routine physical exams and CDL license exams.

NEUROLOGY Michael Boykin, MD Dr. Boykin completed his residency at the Medical College of Virginia and attended Loyola School of Medicine for Neurology. Dr. Boykin’s services include: EEG, NVC/EMG studies, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, tremors, epilepsy, sleep disorders, myasthenia gravis, ALS, multiple sclerosis and neuropathy.

PSYCHIATRY Michael B. Wright, MD Dr. Wright specializes in psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment for adolescents and adults. His services include psychopharmacology and medication management, outpatient consultations, crisis management, psychiatric emergency management and referral and consultations for psychiatric problems related to medical illness. Continued On Page 76

FISHING with KENNY

Subtle Can Mean the World by K EN NY COV IN GTO N I REMEMBER A DISCUSSION I HAD

with Arkansas fishing legend Larry Nixon many years ago. We were discussing how we tend to overcomplicate the sport of bass fishing and ways to overcome the human nature element of doing so. I made the comment that he was very good at making things seem quite simple even when others around him seemed to struggle. He responded by saying, “Bass are not complicated creatures. We make them that way. I have always tried to take the things that I do best and use them as the cornerstone to my fishing success. It’s a lot of trial and error, but a mistake I see a lot of anglers make is they make drastic changes whenever only a small tweak may be necessary.” Those words still ring true all these years later. Often times it is the subtle things we change that separates success from failure on the water. We like to talk about lure colors, but we seldom talk about presentation. We like to talk about basic cover, but you hardly ever hear someone talk about the bottom contour. Things like this will separate the good angler 34 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

from a great one, or maybe even take a good fishing trip and change it to a memorable one. Sometimes a tweak is all it takes. One trip may find the fish loaded up on your favorite bank and catching them is easy. The second pass down the bank is productive, but the action definitely is changing. Have the fish moved? Have you caught them all? Chances are neither has happened, but that is usually the thought process of the angler. Why not go through the area with a different presentation? If you were catching them on a spinnerbait, why not switch to a shallow crankbait? Or if you were catching fish on isolated grass patches with a topwater, why not try fishing inside the grass with a Texas rigged Zoom fluke? In both situations I described, I didn’t mention anything about leaving the area. We need to try different approaches before leaving that sometimes can even be more productive than the original fish catching idea. Notice we aren’t going to be making a drastic change. We are still fishing the same stretches of water; we are just going about it a different way.

A bass that has seen numerous topwater presentations can still be caught by simply changing the action or the presentation of the bait. Once while fishing Cheniere Lake in West Monroe with Mark Booth, we were catching fish on Zoom Horny Toads, buzzing them past the cypress trees. After a few hours the fish suddenly stopped taking our fast retrieved offerings and started making halfhearted attempts to strike our lures. I told Mark that we needed to switch to a Devil’s Horse, because we would still get the same presentation on top. While the commotion of the lure was about the same, the presentation would be slower and easier for the fish to pinpoint. Immediately after making the switch, we started catching fish again. And we started getting a better quality bite as well. Remember that a subtle change can be all that is needed. If the fish are biting a black/blue jig with a matching craw worm trailer and suddenly they stop biting it, switch to just a black/blue craw worm. You are using a completely different lure, and all you have done is scale down the size of your presentation. All you are trying to do is show the fish something different without varying too much from what has already proven to be productive. You can change the right of fall of a Texas rigged lure simply by changing line sizes or line types. The rate of fall when using braid, monofilament or fluorocarbon isn’t the same. The same can be accomplished when trying to vary the depth of a crankbait, different lines will get you different depths. A jerkbait such as a Smithwick Rogue thrown on 12 pound monofilament will work more freely than similar jerkbait thrown on a 20 pound version. The examples of these types’ of subtle changes are endless. As I have gotten older, I have strived to learn even more about this great sport. When I look back at all the innovations that have taken the bass fishing world by storm, it has occurred to me that very few of them are actually “new.” Most are ideas taken from a different fishing capacity and tweaked to make it a more effective tool for bass fishing. I sure hope some of these ideas we have presented to you will help put more fish in your boat this spring. The water is warming up, and the days are getting longer. Please be careful on the water, and make sure you catch one for me! See you next month.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

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WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

Balloon Sinuplasty™ Stop Suffering and Start Living

BRENT METTS, MD, PhD

INUSITIS IS ONE OF THE MOST COMMON CHRONIC health problems in the U.S., afflicting 37 million Americans each year with symptoms like congestion, fatigue, headache and facial pain. About 12% of Americans under age 45 have symptoms of chronic sinusitis. Here in Louisiana, the number is exceptionally high due to higher pollen counts and year-round humidity. Living with chronic sinusitis can be a full-time struggle. Sufferers often depend on allergy medications, nasal steroids and over the counter pain relievers for sinus headaches to make it through the day. Trouble with sleeping and sleep apnea are common problems because of difficulties with breathing through nose. Recurring sinus infections, often as many as 4 per year, cause missed work and significantly impact the ability to enjoy regular activities. Glenwood Ear, Nose and Throat offers Balloon Sinuplasty™, a clinically proven, minimally invasive procedure for treating chronic sinus inflammation and pain outside of the operating room and without general anesthesia. Performed by Brent Metts, MD, PhD, it delivers all the benefits of conventional sinus surgery without the bleeding, pain and prolonged recovery time. Most patients feel immediate relief following the procedure and are able to walk out of the office and work without restriction the next day. Until recently, the only surgical option available to correct chronic sinusitis has been standard endoscopic sinus surgery, where bone and tissue are cut and removed from the nasal passages to open obstructed sinuses and promote drainage. This more traditional procedure is usually associated with moderate pain, bleeding and a 7-10 day recovery time. Balloon Sinuplasty™ is designed to open blocked sinuses without removal of tissue or bone from the nasal passages. Dr. Metts passes a small, flexible balloon catheter through the nostril and into the blocked sinus. When the balloon is inflated, it gently reshapes and expands the sinus’ natural drainage pathway to

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permanently restore normal sinus function. A typical procedure lasts approximately 30 minutes. Following the procedure, patients experience less facial pain and improved sleep, use less antibiotics and are able to perform day-to-day activities at home and work.

About Dr. Metts: Dr. Metts provides adult and pediatric patients with a full range of ENT services. His training began in a M.D, Ph.D. combined training program at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He completed his residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin and earned a fellowship in Endocrine – Head and Neck Surgery at the Medical College of Georgia. He was also a member of the teaching staff at Children’s Medical Center in Augusta, GA. Dr. Metts is one of the few surgeons in the nation who is fellowship trained in “minimally invasive” and “endoscopicassisted” thyroid and parathyroid surgeries. For decades these were inpatient procedures involving large incisions, extensive tissue trauma and scarring. This procedure is now performed by Dr. Metts on an outpatient basis, with a small incision, much less tissue trauma, less pain, a quicker recovery time and little or no noticeable scarring. In addition, Dr. Metts 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. Dr. Metts also provides 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. Office hours from 8:00am to 5:00pm (M-F). Most insurances are accepted.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

BayouLife Icons Ball Slated For March 26th to Benefit the Cooley House Foundation ombine one of the most iconic works of architecture in Louisiana with twenty of the region’s most influential and intriguing personalities and you’ll get the 1st Annual Icons Ball, benefitting the Cooley House Foundation. The gala event will be held Thursday, March 26 th. Each year, BayouLife will select a charity to support with the Icons Ball, a black-tie optional gala event that will honor each of the men and women who have been designated Bayou Icons in the magazine. BayouLife publisher Cassie Livingston grew fascinated with architecture at an early age and that made the Cooley House Foundation a natural selection for the premier Icons Ball. “I remember in junior high school asking for an A. Hayes Town book, which really made it no surprise when I chose to major in architecture in college,” said Livingston. “Cities around the world are identified by notable landmarks—the Burj al Arab Hotel in Dubai, Commerzbank in Frankfurt or the Trans America Pyramid in San Francisco. Monroe should be no different, and the Cooley House is most definitely our most iconic structure.” Proceeds from the 1st Annual Icons Ball will benefit the Cooley House Foundation’s efforts to restore and protect the G.B. Cooley House, which was designed by worldrenowned architect Walter Burley Griffin. (See Page 68.) Guests of honor at the 1st Annual Icons Ball are each of the 20 individuals who have

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been designated Bayou Icons in BayouLife. And from high fashion to high finance, the honorees are worthy of the praise. Just consider the following. No history of the NFL is complete without mention of Ruston natives Dub and Bert Jones, one of the earliest father-son duos to play the sport at its highest level. The history of Major League Baseball would not be the same without the efforts of Dorothy Roark, of the AllAmerican Girls’ Professional Baseball League. In Sportsman’s Paradise, every sportsman has a home. And for the Robertson clan, the homemaker is Kay Robertson, known affectionately around the world as Miss Kay. A home of a different sort has been the life’s work of the lady in the castle, Carol Parsons. In any college town, education plays a significant role in creating culture, as evidenced by Dr. Janet Haedicke, whose work for children has been as defining as her career at ULM. Her long-time colleague, Dr. Richard Chardkoff, more than earned his place in history—by working to preserve the critical histories of the Selman Field Flyboys and local magnate and Holocaust survivor, Sol Rosenberg. Three husband-wife dynamos also share honors, beginning with Drs. LaTonya and Thomas Williams, who tend their patients in the office and help raise a community on the field of play. Carole and Tex Kilpatrick built the business empire that bears their name, but quiet behind-the-scenes efforts for education and for the disadvantaged are perhaps where

they’ve left their biggest mark. And Jean and Fred Huenefeld shared their love of family history and the love of a lifetime. Strong, independent women leave unique marks on our culture. Before there was Englebert Humperdink, English songstress Mary Simpson knocked on Jerry Dorsey’s door to make sure he paid back the twenty quid he borrowed the night before. Corre Stegall led a life of leadership, rising to prominence both as a national sorority figure and a vice president at Louisiana Tech University. With roses in her garden and a smile on her face, Adele Ransom led flood control efforts in northern Ouachita Parish, eventually serving on the Police Jury. And always, fashion maven Linda Reeves was nearby, ready to impart grace, beauty and wisdom. Strong, passionate men leave their mark, too. Just ask Sidney Wilhite, as successful in business as he has been hunting big game. On the air or off, it’s impossible to overstate the influence of network anchor and activist John Denison. “At this event, we’re raising funds to help with the restoration of an iconic structure in our community while also recognizing twenty of our area’s most notable people, individuals who have helped shape and define our culture, to raise awareness for the arts, to educate, to heal and to establish our economic footing,” Livingston said. “Honoring them with this event makes our support of the Cooley House Foundation that much more special.”

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

Meredith’s Musings The Demise of the Traditional Family Dinner BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE could write an entire series on how my mother, Lorraine, got it right as a parent. She taught me love, trust, the importance of ambition and independence, but more importantly, she taught me the value of family. Her motto is and always has been “Family First.” Knowing what I know now, I wish I had carried around a journal, keeping track of all her and my dad’s sayings, as they all ring true in my adult life, but I remember that one vividly. And not just because she said it, but because she practiced it. Some of my fondest memories growing up and since happened around the dinner table, that small wooden four-chair table with two extra seats in the corner of the room for company. There was no TV distracting us; we made our own noise, communicating. We shared laughs, tears, triumphs and failures. I did my homework at that table. We debated my first car at that table. Dad taught me how to do my taxes at that table. That table is the epicenter of our home, where we convene together, as individuals, but more importantly, as a family.

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We even had unofficial, designated seats. I would sit across from Dad, Bonnie across from Mom, and even in larger gatherings in the formal dining room, Dad at the head of the table and Mom across. She was always the last to sit down, making everyone welcome and comfortable. Mom even had couches put in the kitchen, two of them, so all of us could sit in there and talk as food was prepared, so she wouldn’t miss a moment of us…God, how lucky we were. She revels in entertaining, planning her menus weeks in advance and paying attention to detail. I hate that it took me later seeing how the other half lived, those not blessed with this custom, those not blessed with my mother, to appreciate it and her. I’ve noticed a growing trend that concerns me, the restaurant family dinner. And I’m not talking the occasional outing. I mean family gatherings, holidays, birthdays (where, God forbid, you have to buy a present and cover the tab), all under chain restaurant roofs. No consistency, no familiarity, no intimacy, just a group blending in with the rush of society, no special touches,

no fresh flowers picked from the garden, no Mamaw’s coconut cake recipe, no comfort sitting upon the needlepoint seats my mother stitched by hand before I was born, no before the meal couch time and after, all stuffed lounging on couches together and chuckling well into the afternoon, no staying until the next meal rolls around to consume leftovers, because you actually feel wanted. Mom wants us there; it’s such a blessing to feel wanted rather than simply squeezed in to someone’s schedule. Instead, people hurry to meet at a specified time, hoping to beat the rush, only to get the meal quickly, only to share a few words, to rush back to their lives, apart from one another. Maybe it works for families that don’t enjoy one another, want to keep it short or aren’t close, but it still saddens me. My friends groan about family gatherings at this establishment and that one, complaining when someone’s birthday rolls around. They dread it. Perhaps they’re just busy, perhaps they’re missing that family dynamic, or perhaps I just lucked out. Restaurants are stuffy, costly to young families, and frankly…dare I say it… lazy. Yep, it’s the easy way out, no dishes, no prep, but a gut punch to the oftentimes miniscule budget of young families. They can’t afford it, but they have to go because it’s family time, and for many, the only time they get. The gathering has gone from something everyone anticipates to something they endure. Home is what’s missing from the modern family dinner. Lorraine, God love her, won’t tolerate it. They say “Home is where the heart is,” and I’m thankful that rings true for my childhood home. I look forward to family time, oftentimes meeting more than once a week. It’s not a chore for me, or an expense, but rather something I anticipate. Sometimes they’re spur of the moment gatherings, some planned, but they all happen at home, under my family’s roof, with the people that mean the most to me, the people whose time and attention I cherish. Yes, mothers now work; we’re all so busy. Maybe we’re too busy. Ironically, Lorraine always worked, still does, yet she wants to make her home the center of our togetherness, our safe place, where we can be ourselves and soak up those moments that come fewer as we build our own lives.

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Bayou Pages WHEN BOOKS WENT TO WAR BY MOLLY GUPTILL MANNING | REVIEW BY CASEY POSEY MATTHEWS

s an avid bibliophile, I find it hard to believe there is anything better than a book about books. When Books Went To War by Molly Guptill Manning is a fascinating historical account of not only how World War II changed the history of book publication forever but how the Armed Service Editions (ASE) of popular texts served our soldiers in foxholes and hospitals, all while these brave men served our country. On May 10, 1933, thousands of German students and spectators gathered at the Bebelplatz to burn a massive pyre of books. These books, considered “un-German” by the government, were destroyed in order to protect the “national movement of Nazi unity” that was sweeping the country. The same country that once gave the world brilliant philosophers and writers was now intent on changing the German culture to fit the ideals and dogmas of their ruler, Adolf Hitler. According to When Books Went to War, by 1938, the Nazis had banned over 4,000 titles and the complete works of over 500 authors, many of whom were Jewish, and sadly, as history tells, once the books were banned, the Nazis moved from books to people. Because this event was widely publicized throughout Germany and, subsequently, the world, protests over the book burnings came from writers, editorial boards and Nobel Prize winners. However, even in 1940, only about 7 percent of Americans were in favor of declaring war on Germany. Despite the unpopularity of war, the United States government took actions to enlist, train and prepare men for what was looking like an inevitable conclusion. Training camps were hastily built and put up throughout the country, often times with inadequate weapons and supplies. With more men recruited than actual beds in barracks, the government quickly realized they needed to give the soldiers something to keep them from becoming demoralized. Their answer: books. The Army Library Service (ALS) was a department created in 1921 and was responsible for the maintenance of over 200 libraries at Army posts in the United States; however, due to funding issues by the beginning of WWII, the now-defunct ASL only had outdated books and undesirable titles to give their soldiers. The War Department wanted to purchase books for its soldiers; their goal was one per every enlisted man, but they were also unable to keep up with the demand of books due to funding. So a new war of sorts began—

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one led by the scariest enemy known to Nazi book burners: the librarians of the United States. The American Library Association hired Althea Warren, the head librarian from the Los Angeles Public Library, to head a nation-wide book drive in 1941. Warren thought big; she wanted to collect ten million books, and at the end of her fourmonth term as head of the campaign, over four million books had been donated. But this was not enough. The campaign, now led by Warren’s friend, John Connor, was put into overdrive, and by April of 1942, nine million books had been collected. While libraries at bases could now be stocked, another issue arose. Soldiers in the field did not need to carry yet another item, such as a hardback book, which was how the majority of books were published in the 1930s, so the next step was to provide a lightweight book that a soldier could easily carry in his pack. In 1942, representatives from several well-known publishing houses formed the Council on Books in Wartime. The council’s motto became “This war is a war of books…Books are our weapons.” These publishing houses were tasked for creating a new style of books suitable for mass production…except that they faced the small issue of the paper rationing during wartime. The US government, knowing how important keeping the morale of the soldiers up was, agreed to “provide nine hundred tons of paper per quarter for the production of Armed Services Editions” of books. The ASEs were revolutionary. Publishers were able to publish popular genres and titles specifically for the soldiers. The ASE production of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith was just one of the titles that became a huge success among the soldiers, and as the soldiers demanded more books, the publishers rushed to supply their need. But as it always seems to go with books, someone is going to have a reason to protest their content. But this time, the person wanting to ban books came from no other place than the United States Congress. When Books Went to War is a well-written, well-researched book not only about the important role books played during WWII, but it also makes a clear commentary about what happens when books are banned. Manning gives an interesting lesson and insight about a time in our country’s history when books went to war and helped preserve freedom.

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Well, color me happy there’s a hue here for you. Spring is right around the corner and our favorite color is making a splash across the fashion world. Find these and other great items at our local retailers.

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1. Cara’s Boutique 2. Maison Couture Clothiers 3. Moody Blues Boutique 4. The Patio Place 5. The Paper Market 6. Beau Monde Boutique 7. Lewis’ Gifts 8. Thurman’s Food Factory 9.McKinney Honda 10. Haik Humble Eye Center 11. Fiesta Nutrition Center 12. Hemline Monroe 13. Salt and Pepper Accessory Boutique 14. Debbie’s Hallmark 15. Pelican District 16.The Fashion of Ruston 17. Fabulous Fabric 18. Merle Norman of Ruston 19. The Toggery 20. Sleepy Hollow Furniture 21. Hollis and Co. Jewelers 22. Material Things 23. Lincoln Outdoor Living 24. The Children’s Shoppe 25. MD Minerals 26. HerringStone’s

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BAYOUKIDZ

Coping with your child’s

FEARS LEARNING PATIENCE WHEN YOUR CHILD IS SCARED

article by Cindy G. Foust

am not quite sure how to start this month's column, because in doing so I will be confessing a deep dark secret. Yes, once they publish March's magazine, it will be too late to take it back. It will be out there. For everyone to see. Forever more. The end. But, I am going to throw caution to the wind and simply risk being stared at by everyone I see at the grocery store…the bank…or the ballpark. So, what's my big confession? I am still a "little" scared of the dark. What? I'm nearly half a century old, and I'm scared of the the dark? I mean, some people my age are scared of heights or spiders or dying, but scared of the dark they most probably are not. My readers know and trust that I am going to do my due diligence with my research, so let me define my phobia as being nyctophobia which is having a severe fear of the dark (real phobias, by the way, are one of the top reasons children are referred to mental health professionals). I don't really like labels, so I'm not going to classify myself as such…I mean, just because I booby-trap (there's a word from the great Scooby-Doo) my house and sleep with the lights on when Scott is out of town, does not make me a nycto-anything! The reality is, however, I am Chicken Little…better known to my close family and friends as Cindy Foust Scaredy Cat (that kind of sounds like a children's book). Even with a security system, I still feel the need to drag furniture in front of the door…or Scott's golf

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clubs…or a park bench (said rather sheepishly). No, really. I'm afraid this phobia can be traced back to those roots I fondly and frequently write about on Ollie Caples Road with the inception of the VCR (also known as video cassette recorder). Yes, before we could watch television and movies from our phones, this writer experienced the dawn of the video generation first hand. For crying out loud, my parents bought our first VCR at Curtis Mathes for a whopping $800! You can get a DVD player at the local retail giant for $19.99 during any holiday sale extravaganza. But, as usual, I digress. Some of those first VCR movies were real winners, and sadly, included such horror flicks as Freddy Krueger, Halloween and Happy Birthday to Me…each one a pure scream jubilee. I really believe my exposure to such horror nonsense perpetuated my otherwise, inexplicable delirium. I have actually given a lot of thought to these anxious moments I continue to experience, primarily because I am a mother, and well, my children have also had their own phobias. Thankfully, both have outgrown their respective anxieties and fears…but for several years, my daughter was a hostage in our home if there was a dog in a ten-foot radius. Anyone feel my family's pain? I have literally watched my little girl get airborn trying to escape what she perceived as a life-threatening situation when someone's Yorkie (yes, a dog that can fit

in the palm of your hand) was inadvertently let out of the kennel. I think you can ask anyone close to my family, her fear of dogs was real and very difficult to handle in some situations. It was also very hard to watch my little girl tremble, shake and scream at the very sight of a dog. She has literally locked herself in the car, so as to protect herself from Beowulf (also known as “Baylor,”a 5-pound Yorkie Poo). Speaking of Beowulf, you might be asking if my daughter has ever been bitten by a dog or had some well founded basis for her angst, and the answer is no. Until she overcame her fear of dogs, (some 9 years after her birth), we never even owned one. However, if you ever witnessed one of her "dog meltdowns" you would think her leg had been ripped off at the hip by Beowulf. Inexplicable, but genuine. As a person who has been blessed with many good friends that I enjoy co-parenting with, I have also watched other children that I love experience other types of fears or phobias. Each one as real as my little girl's. Some of those children shared my fear of the dark, some were scared of monsters, some were scared of shots (ditto), some were scared of costumes, some simply had separation anxiety from a parent (I highly doubt my son reads my column, but on the outside chance he does, I wish he would get another case of separation anxiety and stay home with his mother once in a while).

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Loomis and Barham

lex Loomis, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Loomis III, and Micah Barham, son of Mr. and Mrs. Anderson Barham, were married Saturday, November 1, 2014 at St. Mary’s Basilica in Natchez, Mississippi. The musicians included violinists and an organist. In addition, two vocalists who are very close to the bride and groom, Amanda and Analeise Reeves, sang Ave Maria during the ceremony. The matron of honor was Natalie DiPasquale, the bride’s cousin. The best man was Will Barham, the groom’s brother. The bridesmaids included Mary Kathryn Maxwell, Amanda Jane Vaughan, Analeise Reeves, Caitlin Robinson, Ainsley Anderson, Tamara Branham and Taylor Reppond. The groomsmen included Thomas Boggs, Walker Boggs, Edward Loomis, Scott Vaughan, John Thomas and Will Ratcliff.

The flower girls were Lila Jane Vaughan and Karli Ann Candella. The ushers were Johnny Maxwell, Anderson Maxwell, Hunter Boggs and Joshua Joseph. The wedding weekend began with a bridesmaid’s luncheon on Friday at the Dunleith Plantation in Natchez. At the luncheon, a pianist played as the bridesmaids and her hostess toasted to champagne and ate a delicious brunch. The bridesmaids each pulled good luck charms, which had different meanings from the pale pink cake. On Friday evening, the groom’s family hosted a delightful rehearsal dinner at the Carriage House. Renowned chef Bingo Starr prepared fried oysters with remoulade sauce and duck boudin balls which were passed out by the wait staff before the meal. The meal proper began with a small bowl of lump crab and

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brie soup. This was followed by filet of speckled trout, barbequed shrimp, cheese grits and asparagus. For desert, the guests choose from crème brulee and praline bread pudding. As the dinner wound to a close champagne was served and the guests toasted the bride and groom. On Saturday, the bridal party began their morning with a private breakfast at the Guest House, followed by a day at the spa. Prior to the ceremony, the Barhams hosted a cocktail hour at the Natchez Grand. The guests were transported by trolley to the church in time for the 7:00 p.m. ceremony. The guests were bundled up in furs and heavy coats as it was the coldest evening of the fall. Following the ceremony, Alex and Micah arrived at Stanton Hall Plantation in a 1976 Cadillac El Dorado just in time to cut the cake. The traditional wedding

cake was pale blue with tiny white flower embellishments. The groom’s cake was a chocolate 3tier with strips of milk chocolate covering the exterior and was topped with strawberries and roses. The bride and groom danced their first dance to “How Strong My Love Is” by Otis Redding followed by a fast dance to “Hard to Handle” by Otis Redding. The band, BRW from New Orleans was a hit. BRW dressed in blue tuxedos and played classic soul tunes until midnight as guests danced with tambourines. Hundreds of guests mingled in Stanton Hall and on the grounds that overlooked massive oak trees and bistro lights. The bride and groom departed after much dancing and honeymooned in Costa Rica. photography Steven Palowsky

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Here Comes The Sun

elebrating the arrival of Spring is this mass arrangement featuring 130 tulips in hues of orange and red. Floral artist Nick McKinney reminds us that “it’s always about volume more than anything else when you are massing flowers. And it always takes more than you think!” To create this stunning floral design, Nick starts with a porcelain bowl perched on a gilt base. He adds several blocks of soaked Oasis (floral foam) to the bowl and thoughtfully begins placing tulips into the foam. (Secure Oasis to the bowl with floral tape if needed. Tulips, though delicate, in these numbers can get heavy.) The orange/red of the tulips is picked up in the graceful design of the bowl and in the painting behind the arrangement.

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The Modern Exotics

eave it to the master of modernity, Gregory Hudgins, to create this chic arrangement using tropical and long-lasting pincushion protea and variegated flax leaves. Gregory uses an abstract Italian handmade glass vase, blown to look like a rose stem. The vivid yellow glass picks up the chartreuse of the variegated flax and the saffron hues of the unusual protea. The proteas other-worldly sage green/grey foliage creates a starburst-like balance to the strongly vertical arrangement.

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3 DAYS IN THE WHITE HOUSE

DISPATCHES FROM ESTELI, NICARAGUA, WITH FRIDAY ELLIS PROPRIETOR OF GOVERNORS CIGAR AND PIPE BY MICHAEL DEVAULT

eavy gray clouds hang over the dark, volcanic soil of a freshly tilled field that lies on one side of a long dirt road. A gentle breeze ruffles the leaves of young tobacco plants along the opposite side of the road, and periodically, a young boy walking with his grandfather turns to spy the group of interlopers, trying to figure out why this group of Americans is so interested in piles of wet dirt. The group of eight men and one woman have traveled more than 1,200 miles to learn more about the vast tobacco operations of the AJ Fernandez Cigar Factory, a relative newcomer that has been taking the cigar world by storm since its beginnings as a producer of premium cigars for other labels. For the nine people on that road, this trip represents the moment of a lifetime, standing quite literally at the place where their passions begin. Yet, as the boy noticed passing, they’re not interested in the tobacco leaves. They’re more intent on learning about the dirt. “It was interesting,” recalls Friday Ellis. “Here we are in this beautiful place, surrounded by this culture, and they’re working this rich, dark, almost black soil. And that’s what we were interested in. Because agriculture is in our roots here.” Ellis is the proprietor of Governors Cigar and Pipe, a Monroe tobacconist that specializes in premium cigars and pipe tobaccos. This trip is the result of Ellis’s efforts to arrange just such a visit for some of his regular customers. “The workers, our guide, everyone understood we weren’t just some dudes in town for partying, that we really were interested in what they were doing and why, and it showed.” This moment between the fields isn’t the first time the Governors crew has gotten “hands on” during the trip. Earlier in the day, while visiting another section of the massive Fernandez plantation, the group was observing workers picking and loading Secco, a part of the tobacco leaf primarily used as filler to improve aroma and burn. “Instead of just standing there and listening, everybody jumped in and were helping load the trucks,” says Ellis. “They wanted to be hands on.” If “hands on” is what these visitors wanted when they got onto the plane, they’ve definitely come to the right place. In Esteli, virtually everything is done by hand.

A Family Tradition

The cigar industry is business steeped in traditions and family legacies, owing in equal parts to the vast natural resources required to produce tobacco and the closely guarded techniques of cigar production that tend to get passed down from generation to generation within the same family. At just 36 years old, A.J. Fernandez is a newcomer, an outlier of sorts, in an industry that has a history of being quite hostile to outsiders and newcomers. Yet, here he sits, at the head of a table in the White House, the guesthouse in which the company entertains visiting cigar aficionados and business associates. He’s been here for a half hour or so, having arrived after working a 13-hour day in his factory. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

through Super Bowl Sunday, at which point he’s willing to go a little bit further. "He is a class act on and off the field,” Fernandez tells BayouLife. “No one works harder than Brady at perfecting his craft, and his awesome work ethic is unparalleled. With four Super Bowl titles under his watch, he will be noted as one of, if not the greatest of all time." Not faint praise from a man who many in the cigar industry argue is, perhaps, one of the greatest tobacco entrepreneurs of his generation. In all fairness, he comes by the skills honestly. His grandfather was the founder of the famed Cuban brand San Lotano, a name Fernandez has reestablished with tobacco blends rolled from his own fields in Nicaragua, underscoring yet again the deep traditional roots of cigar culture. “You could tell he had the stress of unfinished business still on his mind,” says Dustin James, a Monroe realtor who made the trip. Yet, as Fernandez discusses cigars with the men, he moves from casual conversation and a pop-in to full out camping mode. A quick phone call to the factory and, almost like magic, a box of cigars appears. This cigar, Fernandez tells them, isn’t on the market yet. In fact, it hasn’t even been finished. “A.J. begins to talk about a new blend and makes a quick call to the plant manager, and voila, we are smoking a cigar that has not been released yet,” says Darren Gomez, another visitor in the Governors gang. “This is surreal, even to me, and I am taken aback by the whole situation.” They enjoy the new blend for a few moments and, in his characteristically calm manner, Fernandez begins to solicit input on Enclave, a cigar blend that A.J. Fernandez Cigars intends to release later this year. Ellis underscores the importance of this moment. “This is a brand new cigar that no one here has tried before,” Ellis says. “And he’s asking for our opinions on it. We found out later he tweaked the blend because of our feedback.” For Ellis, this is one of many defining moments of the trip. After all, Governors is a relative newcomer to the world of cigars, and several of the men on this trip are new to the cigar world, too. Yet, they are speaking with knowledge, with depth and with an astute understanding of cigar craft. And they’re speaking to one of the men responsible for the cigar explosion. Ellis beams with pride. “That’s my goal as a tobacconist, and in that moment, I was 60 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

so proud of their knowledge,” Ellis says. Just ten years after getting started, Fernandez is a giant in the cigar world. Even more so in the village of Esteli, where his company is one of the largest employers, funds a school for employees’ children and even financed the construction of a hospital for workers and their families. In other words, Fernandez and his company aren’t just about selling cigars to Americans. They’re about living life, earning an honest living and enjoying the fruits of their labor, all traits the visitors from Louisiana have in common with the people of Esteli, where agriculture plays a large role in driving the economy. As the men at the table will quickly learn, though, agriculture isn’t their only commonality. “Our southern manners soon kicked in and before long we were discussing Tom Brady and the Seattle Sea Chickens,” James says. During the conversation, as Fernandez extols the virtues of all things Brady, one of the men introduce a new player—Drew Brees. Suddenly, Fernandez’s position softens somewhat. This is, after all, the weekend before the Super Bowl. Governors regular Darren Gomez is surprised, too. “With as much enthusiasm and passion as he showed about his cigars, here we are debating who the best quarterback is in the league. His choice is, of course, Tom Brady and my choice is Drew Brees! He has some pointed opinions about several quarterbacks, has some harsh words about Peyton Manning being overrated and ultimately ends the conversation with Tom Brady being the best.” It’s a position Fernandez will maintain

Better Than They Found It

oday, Ellis is on a mission. The men he’s brought to Nicaragua with him are here because he’s wanting to establish a beachhead in the drive to foster an appreciation for fine cigars back home in Monroe. This trip to Esteli is part of that drive. “What we’re trying to do is to create a cigar culture, to let people know there is a difference between a cigarette and a cigar,” Ellis explains. He produces a San Lotano cigar, its Habano wrapper still slick with tobacco oils. The cigar’s label proclaims “Hand rolled,” though such a proclamation is hardly warranted. Cigar making is an art, and everyone involved in their creation are artisans of the highest degree, individuals who value progress and quality. “Even in the empty barns where they hang the tobacco, workers are inside, sweeping dirt floors,” Ellis says. It’s hard work, to be fair, but the jobs are valued both by the company and those who fill them. And, A.J. Fernandez Cigars promises something few in rural Nicaragua can hope for: upward mobility. “These are jobs these people aspire to,” says Ellis. Walking among the workers on the rolling floor—the vast expanse of a building where the highest skilled workers sit for hours a day rolling each cigar—Ellis sees individuals in teams of two working filler and rolling wrappers, box-pressing finished cigars in the New World line or putting green and gold rings on San Lotano Connecticuts. “Some of the best teams are husbands and wives, brothers, cousins,” Ellis says. “Family members make the best teams.”

During the visit, the Governors gang gets a few moments to visit with people in the village. They meet a team of workers preparing a site for a Habitat for Humanity house. Donations ensue. Shortly, they’re en route to a boot maker, a man their driver informs them is famous throughout Nicaragua not only for the quality of his boots, but also because he makes orthopedic footwear for children. “After he made our boots, we tipped him generously and explained we appreciated his work. The money was just our small contribution to his mission for the children,” Ellis says. Quickly, the visitors begin to formulate ways in which they can help. They take up a collection for the Habitat crew and one for the boot maker. They even have plans to continue pitching in from back home. Esteli has changed them, and they want to be some small part in the transformation of Esteli. Hours before the Governors Cigar and Pipe group was set to leave, their driver, Marco, insisted on taking them to a particular spot. Exhausted from long days in the field and touring the region, they protested, but Marco insisted. The visitors relented. “We pulled ourselves together and got back into the van for the 30 minute ride up the mountain,” Ellis says. “We drove up to this small, overgrown park area in a natural reserve.” Out of the van, they think they were close to the end of the journey, but Marco explains they still have to hike for five minutes or so up the mountain. Tired, travel weary, the group relents. “Our expectations aren’t very high,” Ellis says, “but what a surprise.” They found themselves standing on a precipice, high above the valley. Below them, the tobacco fields spread out below them. In the distance, a setting sun illuminates the scene. “For a moment, we all stood there, able to take in life and God’s beautiful creation,” Ellis says. Nearby, Marco is smiling. “I’ll remember this moment and how proud Marco is of his country. We’re truly blessed that he shared it with us!” Back stateside, the men are still assessing their trip, taking stock of the experiences they’ve shared and the things they’ve learned. At the heart of it, though, Ellis is hopeful that they’ve left as large a mark on Esteli as it has left on them. “We walked away and we felt like, on some small part, we made a difference and, hopefully, we left it better than we found it,” says Ellis. Friday Ellis and his wife, Ashley, took seven men to Esteli, Nicaragua. In addition to Dustin James and Darren Gomez, also making the trip were Scott Bonner, Dr. John Harris, Cameron Myers, Chad Brooks and Cade Reynolds.

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THE IMPRESSION FROM ESTELI

(1) Hand-rolled cigars at the A.J. Fernandez Cigar Factory (2) Views from a precipice, overlooking the tobacco fields (3) A woman in the factory rolling a cigar (4) A bootmaker who constructed custom boots for the travelers (5) The Louisiana group in a tobacco field in Esteli, Nicaragua

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Profile of a Cedar Creek Graduate Check Out What a Diploma From Cedar Creek Can Earn You

After the last anatomy quiz is taken, after the last pitch is thrown and the last musical is sung, what do you have when you graduate from Cedar Creek School? What comes from a Cedar Creek education? What does a Cedar Creek graduate look like? For starters, our comprehensive curriculum plays a large part in forming a graduate. From Pre-Kindergarten through the 12th grade, our highly trained teachers work as a cohesive team to ensure students are prepared for their post-secondary lives. For the great majority of our students, that translates to attending a four-year institution, and the overwhelming majority of those who choose in-state schools do so with the benefit of TOPS. They qualify for other scholarships as well, based on 25.15 ACT (average composite for the Class of 2014). Since 2012, Cedar Creek students have earned nearly $12 million in scholarship offers. Their exceptional standardized test scores also contribute to being accepted into some of best universities in the nation. They’ve been accepted to such institutions as Harvard, Baylor, New York University, Georgia Tech, Vanderbilt, Rice, Rhodes, Belmont and Duke University. It’s not all about academics, either. We encourage our students to look beyond the classroom for opportunities to grow. Students clock in countless hours of community service. The classes of 2012-2014 performed more than 1,700 hours of volunteer service. Cougars can also measure their successes in athletic and other extracurricular endeavors. Two state championships last year (softball and baseball), 10 straight

years of finishing first in the district Literary Rally, and a multitude of exceptional performances in regional theater by our students are just a few examples. Cedar Creek strives to mold students who • embrace a strong work ethic, which means they are willing to do what is necessary to get the job done, employing few excuses to hinder progress. • realize their God-given gifts and work diligently to ensure those gifts are used to the fullest extent. • value a healthy lifestyle, embracing a range of interests such as the arts and athletics as well as academics. • are well-spoken and articulate communicators and possess exceptional interpersonal skills.

• adapt easily to diverse environments and cultures. • use the technological tools of today in a way that enhances the learning experience. • are problem-solvers; e.g., they approach problems critically and ask probing questions. They do not settle for the easy answers. • embrace the foundations of our country and value their rights, privileges and responsibilities. • are collaborative, understanding that each brings different gifts to this world and accept and celebrate those gifts. • recognize that there are always those who are less fortunate, and that we are called to seek them out and contribute to a greater good for all. All of these characteristics don’t just form at school, though. Cedar Creek realizes it’s in a partnership with parents. We ensure that we have a meaningful and consistent level of communication with our Cedar Creek family to facilitate this partnership. Our faculty also realizes that no two students are alike and possess different learning styles. To facilitate those various styles, we work to present lessons in a variety of methods to both challenge and inspire students. Throughout their academic careers, students are motivated to cultivate a love of learning in a nurturing environment.. What this dedication to learning equates to is a graduate who will not only survive but thrive in the post-secondary world.

Cedar Creek School seeks to provide a superior college preparatory educational experience to students in North Central Louisiana based on the highest standards of academic excellence and personal conduct.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

ask erin

ORGANIZING WITH EVERYDAY ITEMS – SOUTHERN STYLE by Erin Sharplin Love

eing organized is on everyone’s wish list, but the expense that comes with purchasing organizing products never is! So instead of wasting money on new items, why not use items that are already in your home? It just takes a little imagination… Let me serve up a little southern inspiration for you!

The Mason Jar – Of course, I had to start with this Southern mainstay! But, instead of filling your mason jar with sweet tea, try setting it on your desk, or in a craft room, and fill it with pens, pencils and markers! I also love mason jars for holding makeup brushes, cotton balls and/or cotton swabs. You can even paint and decorate your jars to match your décor. Mint Julep Cups - If you don’t like the idea of organizing with mason jars, utilize those mint julep cups that are just taking up space in

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your cupboard instead! They will add a bit of shine and interest to any space and can be filled with a myriad of items. For instance, mint julep cups look great in a makeup room or bathroom! You can use them to house your makeup pencils and brushes. Or use them to display party favors and other paraphernalia, such as straws and stir sticks.

Wine Corks - Be sure to save all of those wine corks from your Landry Vineyard wine! They will come in handy in your entryway, office and/or mudroom! You can easily create a cork “strip” or cork board to display important invitations, school papers, and pictures. My favorite tip for organizing with wine corks is to fill a small picture frame with corks, attach a card with a tack and use it to label items on a buffet table or on a bar! Really, all you need is a vision and a hot glue gun! Milk Vases – I love using milk vases as jewelry displays! Cuff bracelets fit perfectly over

the neck of the vase, for instance! The smaller milk vases are great for hanging earrings – just be sure to use fishhook-style earrings! You could also use milk vases to hold hair bows and ribbons!

Empty Candle Holders - The next time you burn the last bit of a candle, hold on to that jar! With just a few adjustments, the holder can go from headed-to-the-trash-can to fit-for-display! For instance, use your jars to hold pacifiers in your little girl’s room or to hold lipstick tubes and nail polish bottles! They are even perfect for your office! For instance, you can use one for paper clips and one for binder clips.

Teacups and Saucers – Teacups and saucers make great drawer organizers! You can use them in a jewelry drawer, in your “junk” drawer, in your office and/or in your arts and crafts room. Don’t worry if they don’t match! That’s the fun of it!

In actuality, utilizing items that aren’t meant to be organizing products adds style and interest to the areas in which they are used. And, nothing is more “southern” than mixing and matching items to create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. So what are you waiting for? Take my inspiration and run with it!! Happy Organizing!

BAYOUBUZZWORTHY

NINTH ANNUAL CONCERT AT TEMPLE B’NAI ISRAEL

On Sat. Feb. 28 at 7 p.m., Temple B’Nai Israel will host its Ninth Annual Concert. The concert is a tribute to Jewish American composers, put on by Rod Allen Payne and Carvel Avis with other great performers, including G.G. Shinn. Tickets are $20 each and can be picked up at the Temple 9-12 Mon-Fri. For more info call 387-0730.

CELEBRATING FRIENDSHIPS

HERRINGSTONES SPOTTED IN NICARAGUA

Surrounded by oldest and dearest friends, Carol Parsons celebrated a special birthday at Bayou DeSiard Country Club. Beautiful pink camellias and pink satin ribbons graced the table. The conversation was stimulated with lots of laughter and great commitment to the gift of friendship. Pictured are: Arabella Moore, Carol Layton Parsons and Vada Mongomery

At a recent trip to Esteli, Nicaragua, owners of Governors Cigar and Pipe spotted this man at the A.J. Fernandez Cigar Factory. Looks like HerringStone’s has made its way to Central America.

SINGING VALENTINE

On February 13th, the Noteorious Chorus surprised guests at the Bayou DeSiard Country Club. Singing “Let Me Call You Sweetheart,” this delightful quartet has been charming residents of North Louisiana with singing telegrams since 1975. This special treat was a gift for Beverly Jarrell, Clarice Slagle Johns and Lee Slagle Pierson.

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF MONROE

The Junior League of Monroe's 2014-15 Provisional Class was recognized for their outstanding volunteer efforts and partnership with Northeast Louisiana's Family Promise. Congratulations! For more information about the Junior League of Monroe, visit www.jlmonroe.org

BRAD SMITH SHELTER INSURANCE TO HOST SCHOLARSHIP This spring, the Shelter Insurance Foundation will award three $2000 scholarships to local graduates of West Monroe High School. A committee of local high school officials and community leaders will select the local recipients. For more info, contact your high school counselor or principal or Shelter Insurance Agent Brad Smith.

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RIBBON CUTTING FOR SPECIALTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES OF OUACHITA, LLC

On Wednesday, January 28th a ribbon cutting was held for Specialty Management Services of Ouachita, LLC. Hosted by the SMSO Board of Directors and the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, the event offered guests an opportunity to walk through the newly renovated facility in the People’s Homestead building, originally built in the 1920s.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

Getting in Touch with History THE WALTER BURLEY GRIFFIN HOUSE article by Michael DeVault

n 1894, an Illinois entrepreneur decided to relocate with his wife to a city in the heart of north Louisiana where, he hoped, he would make his fortune in the emerging field of steam power. G. B. "Captain" Cooley knew a lot about steam, and just 12 years after his arrival, in 1908, his Monroe Steam Laundry company had made him one of the city's most successful businessmen. He secured a spacious lot on Grand Street, which was at the time among the most prestigious addresses in Monroe, a street lined with antebellum beauties like the Lower Pargoud Plantation and Mulberry Grove. Grecian homes were cropping up along Jackson Street, not too far away. So, for his home, Cooley wanted something new, something inspired, and something that was uniquely American. To fulfill this vision, he turned to a young architect from back home, Walter Burley Griffin. A protegé of Frank Lloyd Wright, Griffin was already becoming a superstar in the architecture world. That's one of the factors that makes preserving Cooley House such a vital endeavor, according to Jean Huenefeld, one of the supporters of the Cooley House Foundation. “This is a unique house to the whole area," Huenefeld said. "This is the only home in this area done by Walter Burley Griffin. It’s a very important part of architectural history.” Indeed, the home is frequently mentioned in biographies of Griffin, who would go on to design the new capital city of Australia, Canberra. And in the home's design, it's easy to see the influence of Wright and the American modernists of the turn of the century. That is, after all, what Cooley was asking for. The plan was simple: live up to the architectural ideal of an American home that borrows nothing from the architecture of Europe. Griffin accepted the challenge and produced in 1908 a set of plans for a home in which the clean lines and swept roof harkened back to the steamboats that plied the river of the day. But business

and timing are as important as a good design, and matters took Cooley away from his project for almost 20 years. By 1925, though, he was ready, and construction began on the home that would become one of Monroe's most recognizable landmarks. Completed in 1926, Griffin's final flourishes on the home included the addition of the green tile roof, which was restored in 2008. Also, not content to allow his home to be his only mark on Monroe history, Cooley had purchased the city's first automobile, and he would need a place to keep it. So matching the design of the home carefully, Cooley commissioned the construction of a detached garage. Today, the Cooley House is under the watchful care of the Cooley House Foundation, which has forged a unique partnership with the City of Monroe. The city owns and will ultimately staff the facility, but it is the foundation that is charged with restoring the building and raising awareness in the public eye. Already, the foundation has overseen the restoration of the roof and some of the interior elements. Also, they've begun work on installing new electrical service to parts of the building. However, there is still much to be done. Huenefeld notes the kitchen cabinetry is one area they hope to make progress. Also, they want to make sure to maintain as much of the original cork flooring as possible. "Right now, the electrical system is the most pressing," said Heunefeld. But for now, at least, this architectural treasure is safe from the wrecking ball, which is important. Huenefeld looks forward to the day when the home is a functioning museum and can host visitors. There, they'll be treated to a display about the steamboat history of the Ouachita River. The centerpiece of that display: a scale model of the Steamboat America, meticulously handcrafted for the museum by inmates of Angola. "It’ll give school children the chance to see intricate details of the steamboat, which was so important to the history of the Ouachita River at that time," Huenefeld said.

“...Cooley wanted something new, something inspired, and something that was uniquely American.”

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WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

Dancing with the LA Stars One Friday night in February was magical for a local dentist, who took to the stage to strut her stuff as part of the 8th Annual Dancing With the Louisiana Stars. Dr. Mary Catherine Crigler took home the top prize among more than a dozen local celebrities in the benefit dance-off held every year by Louisiana Delta Ballet Company. Judging this year were Tommy Usrey, Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo, Janelle Snellings and NFL star Andrew Whitworth. In addition to Crigler, competitors dancing in the competition were Josh Morrison, Maddie Mill, Bradley Wilkerson, Robert Charles Payne, Jon Wages, Clint Downing, Misti Hajj, Dr. Julie Lebell, Tyler Harris, Victoria Krutzer, Timothy Levigne, Slagle McGuffee, April Adams, Eddie Bailey and Ouachita Parish Police Juror Scotty Robinson. Returning to wow the crowd with their dancing skills were DWTLS alumni Tara Jeffirs, Patti Nelson, Josh Kuntz, Becky Woods and Jon Blunschi. Dancing With the Louisiana Stars is held annually at the Monroe Civic Center Arena.

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1 Cruse Flowers, Stacey and John Majure 2 Patty Fuller, Lisa Spatafora and Gayle Shepard 3 Paula and Tony Morrison 4 Robert Lane and Mary Katherine Edwards 5 Jessica Pollard and Maureen Gallagher 6 Kirk Fisher and Page King 7 Denise Moore, Amy Smith, Ashley Hinton, Delle Tyler, Rebecca Leaumont and Joy and Marc Fandal 8 George and Sallie Jayne Snellings, Whitney Gladden and Stormie Israel 9 Faisal Ali and Jada Ali with Laura and BJ Mitchell 10 Tamia, Tammy Washington, Rod and Bridget Washington 11 Pam Inman and Ashley Thompson 12 Kim Dietrich, Natalie Green and Ana Hale 13 Jami-Lynn Perry, Megan Guillot and Karen Kelly

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WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

Kick Up Your Heels!

Ouachita Council on Aging’s 7th Annual “Shindig” Scheduled for March 20th

F YOU’RE LOOKING FOR THE perfect way to celebrate the arrival of Spring, don’t miss Ouachita Council on Aging’s 7th Annual “Shindig” fundraiser scheduled for Friday, March 20th, from 7 p.m. until midnight at MBH Farm, owned by Dr. Herschel and Mary Beth Harter in western Ouachita Parish. Back by popular demand, Easy Eddie and the Partyrockers will entertain the crowd with dance music covering every genre from rhythm and blues to country to rock ‘n roll. Catering for the event will be provided by Catfish Charlie’s, offering a delicious spread of catfish, chicken, shrimp and all the trimmings! Shindig tickets are $60 for general admission, while a reserved table for 8 can be purchased for $600. By purchasing tickets to this event, you help support some 22 programs available for seniors in Ouachita Parish, including the Meals on Wheels Program and Non-Emergency Transportation to Doctors’ offices and Dialysis, Heart and Cancer Centers. Back in 2008, the Board of Directors was looking for a way to pay off the remaining debt on the Carolyn Rose Strauss Senior Center and the Ouachita Council on Aging offices located on Ferrand Street in Monroe. The “Shindig” was thus born out of necessity to generate much needed revenue for retiring the building mortgage.

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After succeeding in “burning the note” in 2012, the Council now directs proceeds from the Shindig to the most vitally needed programs provided for our elderly. The fact that this event is one of the most anticipated in our region is just an extra bonus. Ouachita Council on Aging’s Executive Director, Lynda McGehee, reminds everyone to come prepared to participate in the Live Auction which will take place midway thru the evening. One item up for bid will be a Blue Dog print by the late artist George Rodrigue. This print is titled “Take Five” and is one of only 950 prints produced. Additionally, numerous Silent Auction items will be on display to be claimed by the highest bidder. According to McGehee, this will be a night of “fun, food and fellowship,” with patrons dressing casually in cowboy boots, hats and jeans. The huge, gorgeous barn at MBH Farm is decorated in rustic style, with the resident Clydesdales getting ample attention from the crowd. Football fans will want to visit “Bill,” star of the memorable 2013 Superbowl Budweiser commercial. Of course, don’t forget to say hello to Sammie, Casino and Big Mike, as they may get jealous. Billy Justice, Marketing Director for Vantage Health Plan, says, “Vantage is proud to be the premier sponsor of this

fundraising event for Ouachita Council on Aging. I’ve seen first-hand how the Council operates and how they utilize their funding. Federal and state dollars are insufficient to meet the need, thus local fundraising events, such as the Shindig, are necessary to fill the gaps.” “OCA was established in 1967 with only 80 persons being served by the Meals on Wheels Program. Annually, we now provide meals to more than 600 homebound seniors, age 60 and over. More than any other time in our history, we are depending on continued donations from our community,” said McGehee. “Fortunately, we live in an area that is known for its generosity and concern. Approximately 35% of our total budget is made up of contributions from local businesses and individuals. We are so very grateful for their support.” Tickets for the Shindig are now available at OCA offices located at 2407 Ferrand Street, Monroe, LA, or call Lynda McGehee, Shirley Cagle, or Diane Gaines at (318) 387-0535. For information about the Ouachita Council on Aging and its services, visit their website at www.ouachitacoa.com or find them on facebook. If you cannot attend the Shindig, but would like to make a donation to OCA, go to the website and click on the “Make a Donation” button.

A chic peep toe heel is always a must for spring. We love this classic nude that goes with everything! CARA’S BOUTIQUE

For keeping those spring allergies in check, this Allergy Rescue is our go to remedy! FIESTA NUTRITION CENTER

Petunia Pickle Bottom Bag “A versatile modern bad that can travel from the city to the shore, and from baby to beyond!” THE CHILDREN’S SHOPPE

We can’t wait to “hang out” in one of these as spring approaches! LINCOLN OUTDOOR LIVING

Sunglasess...because while you’re protecting your eyes from that pesky sun, you might as well look good at the same time! HAIK HUMBLE EYE CENTER

Spring is the perfect time to invest in a great new swimming suit. This brightly colored Trina Turk is one of our favorites! HEMLINE MONROE

We can't wait to walk in decadence in the new Meringue Collection from Dr. Scholl's THE FASHION OF RUSTON

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Spring cleaning applies to your skin too! MERLE NORMAN OF RUSTON

Bring the garden inside with this classic Botanical print fabric. FABULOUS FABRIC

This polka-dot button up is the perfect combination of fun and sophisticated. MOODY BLUES BOUTIQUE

Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet reactivates skin’s hydration mechanisms to restore moisture balance MD MINERALS

Nothing says “Welcome Spring” like our custom made Bunny Basket. MATERIAL THINGS

Cut your mowing time in half with the Hustler Turf Raptor. MCKINNEY HONDA

Hats and scarves are always in style. These bright colors are great for spring! DEBBIE’S HALLMARK

This fun chair by HGTV adds the perfect pop of color this Spring! SLEEPY HOLLOW FURNITURE

Layering pendants is definitely in-style this season. We are dying over this combination of silver and gold! HOLLIS & CO. JEWELERS

Whether it’s a classic white or this eye-catching pink, blazers are a spring essential that can be dressed up or worn casually for any occasion! HERRINGSTONE’S

These fringe heels make any outfit stand out. The color is great for any spring wardrobe! BEAU MONDE

Don’t let a downpour slow you down. Freedom and flexibility is what these Butterfly Twists Wellies offer MAISON COUTURE

Cardigans are the essential spring piece. For a beautiful day with cool weather, throw it over a tank and head out the door! SALT & PEPPER ACCESSORY BOUTIQUE

Who doesn’t need a new Kate Spade for the spring season? This small Harmony tote in bright berry will be a great addition to any outfit. THE TOGGERY

Seersucker is a timeless classic that looks great year after year. This seersucker vest comes in two colors and can even be personalized! THE PELICAN DISTRICT

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

Louisiana Tech Stock Car

Bulldogs Represented at Daytona International Speedway in Lucas Oil 200

ave you ever seen a bulldog run at over 180 miles per hour? ARCA Racing Series driver Buster Graham is set to make that happen as he, along with his Roulo Brothers Racing team, will debut the No. 17 Louisiana Tech Bulldog Ford Fusion, Saturday at Daytona International Speedway in the Lucas Oil 200. The race is the first in the ARCA Series’ 2015 season and will be televised nationally on FOX Sports 1 beginning at 3:00 p.m. CST. Not only will the No. 17 stock car showcase Louisiana Tech, Graham and his crew will wear specially-designed race gear adorned with official Tech logos and colors. Even the driver’s helmet has been designed to resemble Louisiana Tech’s white football helmets from this past season. This unique branding opportunity for Louisiana Tech was made possible through the generosity of a benefactor who connected the university with the race team. The supporter wanted to help promote the university by providing the resources needed to create the Techthemed car wrap, team uniforms and apparel, and marketing materials. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to drive the No. 17 Louisiana Tech car in this race,” said Graham. “It’s an honor to represent such an outstanding, upper tier university and to sport the Bulldog colors and logos. At the end of the race, I hope to be able to climb out of the car on Victory Lane and talk up Louisiana Tech. We are going to do our best to make the Bulldogs proud.” Before climbing into a stock car for Roulo Brothers Racing, Graham was a veteran of APBA Hydroplane Racing and Supercross. In 2012, he had a season-best tenth place finish at Michigan International Speedway and won the CSG Imaging Hard Charger Award, presented to the

driver who gains the most positions from their starting spot throughout the race season. Graham earned a ninth-place finish in 2013 at Michigan International Speedway before joining with Roulo Racing in 2014. “This is such an exciting opportunity for Louisiana Tech to expose its brand to a whole new segment of sports fans,” said Louisiana Tech President Les Guice. “We are extremely grateful to Buster Graham, his race team and sponsors, and the generosity of our supporters who made it possible for us to share our Bulldog pride and passion with race fans across the nation.” The ARCA Racing Series is the premier division of the Automobile Racing Club of America. It is a professional league of stock car racing and is often used as a feeder series into the three national touring series of NASCAR. The ARCA Racing Series has a longstanding relationship with NASCAR, including using former Sprint Cup Series cars, hosting events in the same race weekend (such as “Daytona Speedweeks”) and has even named an award after NASCAR founder Bill France, Sr. In addition to Saturday’s race at Daytona, Graham and the No. 17 Louisiana Tech Bulldog Ford Fusion is scheduled to race at Talladega Superspeedway on May 1 in the Talladega ARCA 200. Television times and coverage will be announced at a later date.

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Super Women Continued From Page 30

your mental, physical and spiritual health. Stay abreast of medical trends. Practice self care. Rest properly, eat healthily and exercise. Surround yourself with women who share your vision for you. Recognize what feels good to you and is good for you. Celebrate and respect yourself. Appreciate the paths laid out for you. Open doors for others to follow. Never give up. Validate your feelings. Be a good friend. Nurture relationships. Seek support during difficult times. Recognize mental health needs change over time. Celebrate growth. Take time off and get away. Serve your community. Recognize the superwoman within. Know your definition of superwoman, and be your “super woman.” 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, 318410-1555 or at btatem.bt@gmail.com .

Glenwood Medical Group Continued From Page 30

PULMONARY Ronald Hammett, MD Dr. Hammett specializes in critical care medicine, internal medicine and pulmonology. His services include treatment of disease and infection of the respiratory tract including cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, asthma, tuberculosis, emphysema and chest infections.

CARDIOLOGY P.Thomas Causey, Jr., MD, FACC Dr. Causey is a fellow of the American Board of Cardiology and is board certified in cardiovascular disease. His services involve the evaluation and management of patients with known or suspected heart disease.

UROLOGY Edward Rutland, M.D. Dr. Edward Rutland is a board certified urology specialist & the only robotically trained urologist in Northeast Louisiana. His services include the evaluation and treatment of bladder, kidney and prostate cancer, kidney stones, urinary incontinence, vasectomy and erectile dysfunction. Glenwood Medical Group administrative offices are located at 503 McMillan Road, in Glenwood Regional Medical Center, West Monroe. For more information, call (318) 3294200 or visit www.glenwoodmedicalgroup.com.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

Spring Into Albritton Photography Daffodils, Bunnies and More!

BY STACI ALBRITTON MITCHELL

I, EVERYONE. BEFORE I TELL you about all the portrait opportunities we have this Spring at Albritton Photography, I want to take this opportunity to thank our clients and this community. It occurred to me this past weekend that Albritton Photography has been in business for over 30 years. For those of you who don’t know the history. My dad owned Albritton Camera Shop which was a full service camera store and photo lab. He had the first one hour lab in West Monroe. I basically grew up with a camera in my hand or in a darkroom. I loved photography as a hobby and working in my dad’s store. He photographed weddings, some portraits and other things on a much smaller scale than we do now. While I was away at LSU getting a degree in Agricultural Economics, I never left photography. I worked for the LSU Public Relations photographers, then at Southern Camera in Baton Rouge. After I graduated college, I stayed at Southern Camera for a while before moving back to West Monroe and along with my parents opening a full service portrait studio—Albritton Photography. We have grown to 4 full-time and 3 part-time employees with a portrait division and a school/sports division. Photography is in my blood and part of who I 78 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

am. I truly appreciate my clients and our community for supporting Albritton Photography and allowing me to do something I love. Now for the good stuff. Daffodils are the first hint of Spring, and they are up! Our outdoor studio is full of yellow daffodils ready to be photographed. Sessions are available anytime for daffodil portraits, but we have set aside Sunday, March 1st just for daffodils. I will be photographing in my daffodils that afternoon. Call us to schedule your session. Easter is early this year, so we will start bunny and lamb portraits on March 19. It’s always fun with rabbits, lambs and kids of all ages. Albritton Photography will be offering portraits with bunnies on March 19 and 20 and March 26 and 27. We offer special packages and pricing for our theme specials. April is the month for Family Portraits. Get your siblings together and surprise you mom with a portrait for Mother’s Day. We have the largest indoor studio in this area as well as a 3.5 acre outdoor studio. With the days getting longer, evening appointments are more available. We will even be photographing on Sunday, April 12 at our outdoor studio. For the seniors graduating in May

who need senior portraits, we are ready. Not only do we offer the best senior portrait packages, but we also do graduation invitations and announcements. Dance recital time is in May and as always Albritton Photography will have multiple sets made just for recital portraits. Dancers from any dance school are welcome to come see us May 13, 14 and 15. Packages start at only $45. Things are happening at Albritton Photography, and we want you to be a part of it. Call us at 324-9118 for more details about any of our specials or our baby portrait programs. We love children of all ages. Thank you again for our continued success. Albritton Photography is a true professional portrait studio who cares about you. Albritton Photography specializes in portraits for seniors, baby, children and families. We are located at 406 N 6th Street in West Monroe LA. Visit our website at www.albrittonphotography.com or call 318-324-9118.

Staci Albritton Mitchell

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

Downtown Gallery Crawl Hundreds of art lovers poured into the Downtown Historic District Feb. 12, for the first Art Crawl of 2015. Those who braved chilly temperatures were rewarded with a plethora of new art from some of the region's favorite artists and the chance to mingle with friends over light hors d'oeuves and drinks. Sculptor Lacy Mitcham displayed several of her conceptual works in the Big Room, while next door at Arender Studio, photographer Brad Arender displayed some of his best known works, from portraiture to commercial shoots. MAD Gallery provided their signature Red Beans and Rice and live music. Also displaying new stylings were Leah Reitzel and Stacie Medaries. Visitors to the Big Room also had a chance to weigh in on the People's Choice Award for the 2015 Addy Awards. The People's Choice prize is awarded annually to the single promotional piece created by a company or agency that leaves the biggest impression in the minds of consumers. Volunteers were mum on their favorites, so we'll have to wait for the Addys to find out who takes the prize.

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On the BayouScene

1 Debra Heard and Phoebe Allen Mathys 2 Jean and Mike DeGennaro 3 Marleika Williams and Lamar Allen 4 Jaron Clark and Cheryl Sutton 5 Katie Hudnell, Errin Davis, Anna Marie Beagley, Colby Green, Justin Lacombe and Shawnee Gage 6 Phoebe Allen Mathys, Douglas and Karen Breckenridge 7 Jennifer, Madeline, Jack and Adam Haneline 8 Justin Lacombe, Kassidy Broussard and Rachel Russell 9 Amanda Norris and Ben Bennett 10 Cheryl Sutton and Don Cincone 11 Joshua Mitchell, Victoria Smith and Kelsea McCrary 12 Dee Farr and Melody Gregg 13 Amber Johnfore and Hannah Lemke 14 Mary Thompson, Stacy Medaries, Melanie Douthit, Burg Ransom and Leah Rietzell 15 Bob Henry and Betty Johnston

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

PAWS Pet Parade The Krewe of Janus wasn't the only game in town Saturday, Feb. 7. The Krewe of PAWS took over two blocks of downtown West Monroe earlier in the day to hold the 9th Annual Krewe of PAWS Mardi Gras Pet Parade. The parade is one of the organization's most visible fundraisers each year. Dozens of pets and their owners showed up decked out in their best super heroes attire in honor of the Krewe of Janus's theme, Comic Book Superheroes. During the parade, revelers cheered their favorite pets and floats, and their calls of "Throw me something, mister!" were rewarded with beads and candy. This year, in addition to the pets and their owners, parade-goers were treated to the New Orleans musical stylings of West Monroe based Bad Monkey Brass Band. The pet parade is held each year earlier in the day during the Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras celebrations. Money raised during the parade goes to support the activities of PAWS, including their spay-and-neuter clinic, the group's animal rescue activities, and to provide pet ID tags to owners. For more information, or to support PAWS, visit them online at pawsnela.org.

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On the BayouScene

1 Jennifer and Cheyenne Blake and Izzy 2 Linda Marchefski and Lexi 3 Simran Emaus, Hansin Tatuskar, Jaiden Patel and Lauren Wall, Dogs: Brady and Taj Emaus 4 Clay Berry and Emily Jordan 5 Kara Sims and Daisy 6 Dustin, Bella, Paisley and Emery Mooney 7 Jon Marie Byram and Bella Mia, Janae Byram, Jennalee Byram and Kassidy, Jessica Byram and Cocoa 8 Stacey Denson, Rebecca Walters, Brandie Book and Emily Reese 9 Anna Parker, Elise Burch, Hailey Graves and Makiah Conley 10 Rob Heisler, Brooklyn Moore and Damien Moore 11 Corbin, Rocky and Mike Walsworth 12 Andy Harbor, Kelli Harvey, Peevy Harvey and Denise Duplechin 13 Carli and Cesli Grimes 14 Caryn McKenney, Dovie Milstead and Lady Juliet

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BAYOUEATS

GAME ON!

THE FIELDHOUSE SCORES BIG ARTICLE BY MARY NAPOLI PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS

LOCATED JUST OFF THE ULM CAMPUS, THE FIELDHOUSE IS A LAID-BACK ESTABLISHMENT WITH AN ALL-STAR MENU THAT KEEPS PATRONS COMING BACK.

e didn’t plan on it, but Joey Trappey is contributing to his family’s lengthy and successful history in the food industry. The Trappeys have greatly prospered in the family business, but Joey remains humble. “I’m really just taking care of and giving back to the community that has given so much to me,” says Trappey, the owner of the Fieldhouse Bar and Grill. Located just off the ULM campus, the spot was a natural choice for the Warhawk alum to start his sports-themed, casual dining spot. Trappey is not only a ULM grad, but a former tight end for the football team (1st team All-Louisiana and 1st team All-Conference, as a matter of fact!) and a guard for the basketball team. His memories of his sports career at ULM are

dear to him, although the New Iberia native admits that when the prospect of playing ball as a Warhawk presented itself, the then high school senior had to do a little geographical research. “I knew I wanted to chase the college football dream, but I didn’t know much at all about this part of Louisiana,” says Trappey. “I had to take out a map to figure out where Monroe was! I had no clue! But now I am so connected to this community. This is where I have made my home and a family.” Trappey is now married to the lovely former Holly Hammock, a Monroe native, with whom he has two darling little girls. Although he now calls Monroe home, Trappey brings a rich family history with him from Cajun Country. His name likely looks familiar because it is a well-established brand of exemplary Louisiana food

products that began in 1898 with the creation of a popular hot sauce. From that one product grew Trappey’s Fine Foods, Inc., a national brand that includes southern kitchen staples ranging from pickled peppers to canned goods. The restaurateur’s entrepreneurial instincts came honestly. Even on a Wednesday night, the Fieldhouse is buzzing. The main dining room is alive with patrons—some at tables, some belly-up to the bar—all enjoying fantastic food in a casual atmosphere. The “party room” is packed with large parties of families with children running about and giving their parents a chance to relax and visit with one another. As Trappey walks through the room, he can only take a few steps before someone reaches out to shake his hand or pat him on the back. It seems that everyone knows WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

his name, although no one seems to pronounce it correctly. As someone with a last name that is often mispronounced, I pick up on that kind of thing. Another reason I take notice is because my roommate at LSU was Joey’s cousin, and I have spent so much time in New Iberia and stood in so many weddings there, that I can legitimately claim dual citizenship. But that’s another story for another time. In North Louisiana, most people automatically read his last name as “trap-ee.” However, down south it is pronounced “trahpay.” He won’t correct you on it, but trust me on this. When I mention it, Trappey laughs it off and goes with the flow. Although he had not completed his Master’s in Business from ULM with the intention of starting a restaurant, Trappey saw an overwhelming need for a family-friendly, casual eatery near campus where locals could enjoy affordable, quality food and drinks. “Before the Fieldhouse, there was really nowhere like it to go after the game to carry on the celebration. I saw a need for a place that had great food and great service where people could be comfortable. So at age 26, I started a restaurant,” he explains. 86 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

Due to the location’s proximity to campus and Trappey’s background on the football field and basketball court, the sports theme was an obvious choice. Giant screens adorn the walls of the eatery and are tuned to various sporting events. The laid-back establishment offers two dining rooms and a prominent bar area with a suitable selection of draft and bottled beers, wine and mixed drinks. However, it is the all-star menu that keeps patrons coming back. The most popular entree is the signature Fieldhouse burger. Although there are several other burgers to choose from that include distinctive toppings, the tried and true version remains the best seller since the restaurant doors were first opened. This burger includes American cheese, mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato, onions and pickle. Make it your own by choosing from a wheat, jalapeño, or soft pretzel bun. The shrimp poboy is another fan favorite. Trappey shows his South Louisiana roots and gives this iconic sandwich the respect it deserves. Made with Leidenheimer French bread from New Orleans, a generous portion of shrimp is accompanied by spicy mayo and just enough lettuce and tomato. The crispy

shrimp are music to the mouth, but it’s the famous French bread that makes this sandwich sing. With a crispy, flaky crust and a tender, airy inside, there is no doubt why Southerners are devoted to this sandwich essential. And shrimp isn’t the only seafood on the menu. Trappey notes that Cayenne Crawfish, which is located on site, produces some of the best crawfish in town. Trappey’s nachos are another popular item. The way I see it, nachos can either be ballpark level or a thing of beauty, depending on the platform (the chip) and the chosen toppings. The Fieldhouse might have a sports theme, but their Famous Nachos are nothing like the ball field version of stale tortilla chips covered in radioactive orange cheese. Crispy tortilla chips are piled high with fresh tomatoes, tender onions and spicy jalapeños making every bite uniquely delicious. Add chicken or shrimp for an extra special experience—it’s worth it. The true beauty of these nachos? They aren’t topped with the usual melted cheddar cheese, which often hardens and sticks to the toppings rather than the chip. The Famous Nachos are bathed in delicious queso, which finds its way into every nook and cranny and makes each chip easy to pull

apart from the stack. Share an order with friends, and it will leave you wondering why nachos would ever be made any other way. If you are already making plans for March Madness, the Fieldhouse is an excellent spot to cheer for your team while enjoying appetizer and drink specials. Chicken wings are traditional game-time fare, and the Fieldhouse knows how to deliver these crowd pleasers. Trappey is committed to providing local, quality products whenever possible, which leads him to purchase these sizable wings from West Monroe. “Our wings are the largest size available here. It means a lot to provide our customers with a quality product for a good price. There is never a substitute for quality,” says Trappey. Speaking of March Madness, fans of the Fieldhouse are sure to turn out in droves for the restaurateur’s newest venture, Trapp’s. Located on the Ouachita River, Trapp’s is destined to be a legendary spot for many reasons. Trappey extensively renovated and completely transformed the former site of Bayle’s Landing and added additional floor levels to include a double deck patio system that accommodates river traffic. “People will be able to pull their boats right up to the dock and get amazing food on the lower deck,” says Trappey. As if dining outdoors and watching the sun sink into the water isn’t enticing enough, Trappey has constructed a stage on the lower patio where bands will provide music to the rhythm of the river. Summer just got a whole lot more exciting, don’t you think? The location and refined rustic atmosphere of Trapp’s are ideal for the seafood-centered menu. Trappey calls upon his Cajun roots and family history in the food industry when designing dishes for his new venture. The menu will feature seafood nachos, crawfish pie, boudin, shrimp and corn bisque, blackened catfish, assorted poboys, seafood platters and ribeyes, among other mouth-watering items. Just in time for crawfish season, Trapp’s will open its doors in March. “I took a chance and wanted to invest in a community that really embraced me. The support has been amazing,” says Trappey with sincerity. Judging by the success of the Fieldhouse Bar and Grill, patrons will continue to support him at Trapp’s and long into the future. The Fieldhouse Bar & Grill is located at 1510 Sterlington Road in Monroe. To see full menu, check out fielhousebarandgrill.com or friend them on Facebook. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

GES Gator House

Families, friends and alumni of Grace Episcopal School watched the superheroes themed Krewe of Janus roll from the tastiest spot on the parade route—Doe’s Eat Place. Owners of the famous eatery and dedicated GES parents, Tara and Sean Hammons and Andy and Carla Eaton, graciously hosted the celebration. The revelry began in late afternoon, and guests enjoyed delicious Southern style food and a variety of traditional King Cakes in an outdoor café setting. School friends of all ages could barely contain their excitement in anticipation of the parade. After the Carnival music faded, sleepy children (and their parents!) with necks full of beads made their way home. For all Grace Gator families, it was a magical Mardi Gras to remember.

On the BayouScene

1 Sean and Tara Hammons, Ryan Watts 2 Seth, Tony, Jessica and Aubrey Lyons with Shelby McCallister 3 Sarah McQueen, Ellie Loftin, Abby Lyles and Dani Roa 4 Anna, Lori and Emily Barnidge 5 Jodi and Allison Lyles 6 Anika Charon and Lexie Lexing 7 Sarah and Liz McQueen 8 Lila Napoli, Martha Brinson and Ivy Napoli 9 Given and Judge Brenza Jones 10 Sarah, Daniel, Lizzie Jane and William Raymond 11 Mary Kathryn, Camille, Caroline and Julia Crigler and Rene Schneider 12 Tiﬀany, Carson and Ty Huﬀer 13 Maddie and Brad Bond 14 McCain, Palmer, and Allison Jarrell 15 Stan, Lauri, Mary Kate and Lily Anderson 16 Ella and Wendy Waller 17 David, Stephanie and Riley Bryant

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A Gathering of Gifts and Gardening Junior League of Monroe Presents Spring Market 2015

PRING IS ON IT’S WAY AND WITH it comes the Junior League of Monroe’s Spring Market, sponsored by Community Trust Bank. The Jr. League of Monroe’s 17th annual Spring Market will open its doors on Friday, March 13, 2015. The Market opens that morning at 8:30 a.m. with the classic event, “Shop ‘Til You Drop!”, presented by The Mulhearn Corporation. This event features a champagne brunch catered by The Coffee Bean, entertainment by Rod Allen Payne, and extended shopping until 11:00 a.m., with tickets available for $30. General shopping is open to the public on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Friday evening, Spring Market’s signature event, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun!”, presented by Progressive Bank, kicks off at 6:00 p.m., and includes catering by Thurman’s Food Factory, entertainment by Mike McKenzie, door prizes, preferred shopping, and of course, everyone’s favorite, “Market-ritas.” Tickets for this can’t miss event are $40. On Saturday, the Market is open for general shopping at 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. General shopping tickets are $6 in advance, and $8 at the door. Please note that no strollers are allowed during any Spring Market, due to space constraints and crowd control. Last year, the Junior League of Monroe introduced a new event focused on family

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fun. Breakfast with the Bunnies was a huge success and the second year looks to be even bigger and better. Presented by The Paper Market, this event features a light breakfast, a visit from Peter Cottontail himself, story time, balloons and children’s craft activities, as well as petting area with live bunnies and chicks. Albritton’s Photography will take adorable photos that feature your children with live bunnies. Portrait packages will be available for purchase. This year, there will be two Breakfast with the Bunnies seatings on Saturday, March 14. The first seating will be at 8:30 a.m. and the second seating at 10:30 a.m. Tickets are available for $15 per family. The Provisional Member class of 2014-2015 is taking pride in hosting this event as part of their Spring Market project. Each year the League sells raffle tickets in conjunction with Spring Market as a way to increase fundraising efforts. In years past, winners received exotic vacations from all over the globe and this year is no different. This year’s raffle is for a seven night Costa Rican Getaway OR $5,000 cash! The winner will be announced on Sunday, March 15 and can choose which prize they would like! The Junior League of Monroe is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership

of trained volunteers. Since 1930, members have devoted countless volunteer hours to meet the needs of the people and organizations of our community. Spring Market serves as one of the major fundraisers for the Junior League of Monroe. “Families Can’t Wait,” a program that provides a hospitalbased primary prevention plan for at-risk mothers and has a positive impact on the health of infants, will also benefit from the funds raised. “Tools and Literacy for Children (TLC)” is a community outreach program that addresses the overall needs of at-risk children and families and focuses on the physical, emotional and educational needs of a selected area elementary school. This only names a few of the outreach programs that are operated through the Junior League of Monroe, giving purpose to the purchase of a ticket to a weekend of events and shopping. Tickets for all Spring Market activities can be purchased by contacting Terri Arthur at (318) 322-3236 or by visiting League House, located at 2811 Cameron Street in Monroe, between 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Please join us and experience Spring Market’s Gathering of Gifts and Gardening at the Monroe Civic Center from March 13 - 15, 2015. We look forward to seeing you at the Market!

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Abita Tasting Event Choice Brands and Louisiana's own Abita Brewing Company hosted the tapping of a special cask at Live Oaks Jan 22nd. Guests of the tasting got a commemorative pint glass to take home, as well as a sample of the delicious Cask Conditioned Vanilla Naughty Quaker. After the tasting, beer lovers hung around to enjoy the groovy sounds of local favorites, The Downtown Wigs.

On the BayouScene

Yalobusha Brewing Tap Takeover On Thursday, February 5, beer enthusiasts flooded to Restaurant Cotton to check out the Yalobusha Brewing Company Tap Takeover. Yalobusha founder, Andy O’Bryan was on hand to discuss and sample three delicious beers from the Mississipi brewery: River Ale, Copperhead Amber, and MississIPA. Guests also enjoyed some delicious appetizers, courtesy of Chef Cory Bahr and some heavenly King Cake made by Chef Cassie Kacvinsky. Yalobusha is located in Water Valley, MS, just outside of Oxford.

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1) Carol and Phil Walters and Parker Amos 2) Lee Edwards, Wade Stewart and Van Edwards 3) Kaitlyn Bingham, Samantha Dordch, Kasie Hobson and Cole Pruitt 4) Jennifer and Troy Lizenby 5) Kingsley McCrocklin and Stacy Lewis 6) Tracy and Kyle Dugas 7) Laura Anzalone and Michael Aronson 8) Donna and Mark Blann, Dawn Dayh 9) Leigh Ann Palmer, Kurt McHenry and Delia Simpson 10) Ryan Gonzalez, Delia Simpson, Russel Kicey and Jeff Burchfield 11) Ana Hale, Lee Edwards, Janelle Briggs and David Fischer 12) Jeff Burchfield, Paul Gullette and Thomas Hilleke 94 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

The Artist’s Approach Smile Design At Its Best BY DAVID FINLEY, D.D.S.

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AFTER

N ARTIST MUST BE ABLE TO IMAGINE AND VISUALIZE

his finished work of art in his mind as it will appear on its canvas. A dentist must also be able to do the same thing to design and create as beautiful a smile as possible for his patient. The dentist's ultimate cosmetic objective is to create a beautiful smile, not just beautiful teeth. However, creating a beautiful smile requires the evaluation and analysis of the smile, lips and gingival tissues, in addition to the teeth. Successful creation of a beautiful smile requires artistic skills as well as technical skills. Artistic skills involve training the eye to see the smile's unseen or overlooked aspects and improving them to make the smile appear even better. Cosmetic dentists artistically analyze the relationships of the teeth, gums, lips and facial tones of the patient. From this analysis, they are able to create balance and symmetry between the structures that make up the smile.

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TREATMENT OPTIONS People with stained or dull teeth will benefit from professional whitening. In-office and supervised at home whitening systems are available. People with chipped, cracked or worn teeth can consider either veneers or bonding. Long-lasting veneers are ultra-thin, specially-made laminates that are bonded to the teeth. Bonding is a process in which enamel-like material is applied to a tooth's surface, sculpted to an ideal shape, hardened and then polished for an improved smile. Veneers are stronger and have a longer life than bonding. Crowns and bridges are best for correcting major functional or structural problems with individual teeth, missing teeth or general bite dysfunction. Implants are being used to successfully replace teeth for people in all age groups - with esthetic and predictable results. The latest porcelain technology allows us to replace missing teeth or crown teeth in a way so that no one can tell the replacements are not real. Whatever your individual problem, a qualified, experienced dentist can select the right cosmetic treatment to enhance your smile.

Breast Augmentation “She was a black haired beauty with big dark eyes,and points all her own sittin’ way up high...” – Bob Seeger, Night Moves

BY TIMOTHY J. MICKEL, MD, FACS, BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON

VER 200,000 BREAST AUGMENTATIONS ARE PERFORMED performed annually by American plastic surgeons. Since I opened my practice in Monroe in 1990, I have personally done well over a thousand. It is by far the most common procedure that I perform and it is certainly one of the most gratifying. There are very few surgical procedures that in the course of an hour can have such a profound and lasting impact on the way a woman feels about herself. Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure that takes about an hour. Most are done through a small incision in the fold beneath the breast or around the edge of the nipple. Either approach results in a small scar that is well hidden. Since the FDA moratorium on silicone implants was lifted in November of 2006, roughly 95% of the breast augmentations I perform are with silicone implants. They have either a smooth or a textured surface, have either a round or a teardrop shape, and can be placed either above or below the chest wall muscle. Each of these options has its pros and cons. I use all of them when appropriate, as I try to tailor the operation to the patient’s desires and her anatomy. At the initial consultation, considerable time is spent discussing the patient’s motivation for surgery and the result she hopes to obtain. A series of breast and chest wall measurements are taken and the breast tissue and overlying skin are evaluated so that I have a thorough understanding of the patient’s starting point. Rib and chest wall asymmetries, differences in breast width, height, projection and shape, and differences in nipple level are all noted and discussed with the patient. The surgical significance of pre-existing breast or chest wall asymmetry is that it often leads to some degree of asymmetry (usually minor) postoperatively and the patient needs to understand this beforehand. A large part of the initial consultation is spent discussing desired breast size. My job is to align the patient’s wishes with a result I can realistically deliver. Patients generally describe their breasts in terms of cup size. Unfortunately, while France maintains an International Bureau of Weights and Measures to ensure uniformity in meters, grams and minutes, there is no committee of jaunty and erudite Frenchmen who carry out measurement-related research to ensure uniformity of cup-size. So a “C” cup at Sears-Roebuck may be a “D” cup at Victoria’s Secret, and there is no such thing as a “D minus, minus” or a “C plus”. Moreover, breast implants don’t even come in cup sizes; they come in volume sizes and base widths. So, a 300cc implant may make one woman a “B” cup and another a “D” depending on her chest wall

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Go Green for Spring

The Children’s Shoppe in Monroe and Ruston

HE CHILDREN’S SHOPPE WANTS you to go green…start with a pinch of green sprinkles on zesty sugar cookies for St. Patrick’s Day, follow with the implementation of an easy recycling system – keep going by awakening nature with a stir to Mother Earth—plant something happy in your garden, and then come see us at The Children’s Shoppe. Spring is hopping and popping at The Children’s Shoppe, literally. It’s time to suit up for the season! The madcap month of March has arrived - the last of winter and the first of spring. Blustery winds and soft spring breezes alternate as we venture out for brisk walks. Can’t March make up her mind? Which it shall be? Let us help her! Energize your spirit and set the mood for spring with

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a hint of green. Swing by The Children’s Shoppe, we can get your little sprout geared up for any event. We have green shoes, green shirts, green bows, green bags, green sippy cups, green blankets and even an edition of the book, “Green Eggs and Ham.” Are you a mother-to-be? Not sure what you are having? Go green! Green is good! Springtime is a busy time. Easter is upon us. There is much to do…frocks and bonnets await your sweet angels. Gather your baskets and hop our way. We have everything you need to prepare for Easter festivities. In the eighth century, the poetic name Easter, meaning “new beginning,’ was incorporated into Christianity’s observance of Christ’s resurrection, thereby blending nature’s renewal with man’s spiritual re-

birth. The Easter season is not only a Christian story, but a promise of renewal for all. Our family’s spirit awakens, along with the natural world, from its long winter sleep. Green is good! Spring arrivals are plentiful but are being snapped up as quickly as a hot cross bun – so it would be wise not to dilly dally. Hop on in! The Children’s Shoppe offers a vast array of must-have gifts for babies, birthdays, special occasions or just for play. There is an enticing selection of decorative treasures, diaper bags and custom hair bows. We place particular emphasis on toys and books that are developmental and fun… all great options for Easter baskets. Regardless of season or reason, The Children’s Shoppe is the perfect place to find timeless and fashion-forward children’s clothing, gifts and accessories for girls newborn to size 16 and for boys newborn to size 12. Search no more for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, you’ll find it at The Children’s Shoppe.

Local Man Transforms His Life with LCWLS

Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery Patient Brannon White Tells His Story

RANNON WHITE OF FARMERVILLE lost 191 pounds following his gastric sleeve surgery at Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery. What prompted him to transform his life? “I was tired of being big and unable to bend over to tie my shoes without a struggle. I said to myself, ‘There has to be a better way.’” Read his inspiring story below. I have been big all of my life. I was always self-conscious about how I looked and what I could wear to cover up my body. Prior to my surgery, I suffered shortness of breath, chronic swelling in my legs and high blood pressure. I was wearing size 46 jeans and 4XL shirts. Now, none of those health conditions exist. My “ah-hah” moment came when I put on a size 30 jeans for the first time. I now

wear medium and large shirts. It is the best feeling knowing I can walk into any store now and buy clothes right off the rack. This surgery is the best thing I have ever done in my life! I had hardly any pain associated with the surgery, and if given a chance, I would do it again and again to get these results. I would share the following analogy with anyone who is apprehensive about the procedure. Think of a sack of deer corn, which weighs 50 pounds. I lost 190 pounds, which is roughly the equivalent of four deer corn sacks. I was essentially carrying four deer corn sacks on my body, all day long. It wasn’t fun. I am able to really enjoy my hobbies. Duck hunting is really easy now, because I feel so young again. I am able to wade in

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water, jump right into the boat and climb like a kid again. The moment in which I was most proud was during my six-month check-up with Dr. Walter Sartor, and he told me I had lost 100 pounds. It was the best feeling in the world. It is so funny when I meet people now who tell me they never would have pictured me as a bigger person. I have to show them proof with my pictures. My life, post surgery can be best summed up like this: my health is top-notch, and the sky is the limit.

LCWLS 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.

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FASHION

From the silver screen of Duck Dynasty to the set of BayouLife Magazine, Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sweetheart Sadie Robertson charms us with her dynamic personality, humble demeanor and delightful dimples. Styled in romantic looks from area boutiques, Sadie is stunning in these Spring ensembles. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS HAIR AND MAKEUP BY MEKA BENNETT RELIFORD

HEMLINE MONROE This black jumpsuit features a great drape that pairs well with this silk, chiffon kimono jacket. Cut for a luxurious fit, this bohemian statement piece features a feminine floral print and fringe trim.The look is completed with a gold and aquamarine handchain, statement necklace and tan, peep-toe heels.

SALT AND PEPPER ACCESSORY BOUTIQUE Perhaps the sweetest babydoll dress around, this little number features a beautifully embroidered and lace front with crochet pattern sleeves. Pair it with these strappy, pointed toe sandals and layer on bracelets. Keep it simple with a delicate bracelet with leaf charm and these gorgeous filigree earrings.

MAISON COUTURE CLOTHIERS Sadie looks peachy cute in these palazzo pants from Maison Couture Clothiers. They feature a high waist with slit sides and a flowy fit. Pair it with a white, tiered top and printed scarf . Finish the look with a suede ankle bootie and statement necklace.

HERRINGSTONES This cute little number is about as diverse as it gets. Wear it as a tunic with lacey shorts, a darling dress or even as a swimsuit coverup. The slight bell sleeve with lace trim is incredibly chic. Pair it with layered leather and pearl necklaces and these cut-out peep toe booties.

THE FASHION OF RUSTON Usher in Spring in this sophisticated pontĂŠ zipper dress with perforated leather. Accessorize with fashion-forward pieces like this Chan Luu beaded necklace, Kendra Scott earrings, BCBGeneration crossbody purse and Sam Edelman pointed-toe pumps.

Tobacco Cessation: Your Journey Starts Here Get a Fresh Start with St. Francis Medical Center Tobacco use is the single largest preventable cause of death and disease in the United States. Cigarette smoking kills more than 480,000 Americans each year, with more than 41,000 of these deaths from exposure to secondhand smoke. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2014

It’s time for a fresh start. Tobacco users who want to break the hold tobacco has on their lives have a new option to support their cessation journey – St. Francis Medical Center’s Fresh START! Tobacco Cessation Program. Located at St. Francis North in Monroe, the comprehensive program features a thorough intake session, group and individual counseling for participants and their family members and support for a full year

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after program completion. “This program is truly changing lives,” Rebecca Mixon, program manager, said. “No matter how long they’ve used tobacco or how many times they’ve tried to quit, participants are leaving with a renewed belief that they can – and will – quit this time.” “Everything we do in this program starts from the belief that we are a team with each person who is trying to quit,” she said. “We’re by their sides through every step of the journey, and we’re already seeing their lives and the lives of the people around them being changed in such positive ways.” Teresa Daniel, RN, the program’s Certified Tobacco Training Specialist, was trained in Jackson, Miss., at the acclaimed ACT Center for Tobacco Treatment, Education and Research. Teresa works one-on-one and in group settings

with participants to explain the science of addiction, to calculate their level of addiction and to monitor their progress throughout the cessation journey. The program also features the services of Tobacco Cessation Coordinator Roxanne McCormick who acts as a program navigator by assisting participants with scheduling, questions, follow-up and education. St. Francis’ Fresh START! Tobacco Cessation Program is an evidence-based program developed in partnership with Southwest Louisiana Area Health Education Center (SWLAHEC) and with support from the Tobacco-Free Hospital Partnership Project and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For the past three years, SFMC has worked with SWLAHEC to provide community education, training of healthcare professionals and development of the new cessation program. Anyone who wants to quit using tobacco products can call (318) 966-QUIT to schedule an intake session. Evening and morning sessions are provided for both intake and counseling, and the team works with each participant to create an individualized cessation plan to fit the participant’s needs.

Excellence in Surgical Care at St. Francis

St. Francis Medical Center is Ranked No. 1 in Louisiana for Overall Surgical Care

T. FRANCIS MEDICAL CENTER IS ranked #1 in Louisiana for Overall Surgical Care, according to the just-released 2015 quality awards from CareChex, the medical quality rating service of Comparion - one of the nation's largest privately-held health care information services company. St. Francis Medical Center is also ranked as one of the Top 100 hospitals nationwide for medical excellence in Overall Surgical Care. "This latest announcement is another testament to the quality of care our physicians and staff provide to our patients each day," said President and CEO Kristin Wolkart. "Our team works hard to ensure excellence in every aspect of patient care, but it's nice to be recognized by unbiased third parties like CareChex on a national scale, as well. It is further proof the work we do each day is sacred and mean-

ingful, and deeply impacts the patients and families we serve. We are honored to have achieved an exceptionally high level of performance in overall surgical care.” From their modest beginnings in July 1913 as a three-story red brick building with 75 patient beds, St. Francis Medical Center has grown to become Northeast Louisiana’s largest healthcare provider and one of the largest employers in Ouachita Parish. Today, St. Francis is licensed for 550 beds, employs nearly 2,000 team members and partners with over 300 medical staff members. The mission of extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to those most in need reaches out to 17 parishes in Louisiana and three counties in Arkansas, an area with a population exceeding 515,000 people. St. Francis Medical Center is proud to have been providing healthcare

services in our community for over 100 years. Learn more about St. Francis Medical Center by visiting www.stfran.com. CareChex® is a division of Comparion® Medical Analytics – one of the nation’s largest privately-held healthcare information services companies. CareChex provides clinical, financial, and patient satisfaction findings to consumers, providers and purchasers of U.S. medical care. Unlike other publicly available quality ratings, CareChex provides a composite evaluation of all components of medical quality including process of care, outcomes of care, and patient experiences. For access to provider quality ratings, visit www.CareChex.com.

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Special Agents … On Your Mark, Get Set, Go! Squire Creek Presents The Peachy Keen Caper March 15

HE PEACHY KEEN CAPER IS BIG Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Louisiana’s inaugural fundraising event, which is hosted by Squire Creek on Sunday, March 15 from 2-7 p.m. The event begins and ends at Squire Creek Country Club in Choudrant. The Peachy Keen Caper is a zany “Amazing Race” style event starting with the most innovative scavenger hunt you’ve ever seen! It’s not about figuring out where you’re going or retrieving an item when you get there, but instead working together to solve interactive and sometimes puzzling clues on a mad dash through Lincoln Parish! To add to the excitement, a reception with dinner and prizes will take place at Squire Creek Country Club following the hunt.

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Show team spirit by dressing up— Be creative! Each team of 6-8 people will be chauffeured to clue sites in a limo or vehicle stocked with snacks and libations. Team captains will receive a hint sheet, which can help increase your odds of winning, several days before the event. Get your team together, and try figuring out what the hints mean by doing a simple Internet search. You might find the piece of the puzzle that will come in handy on the day of the event. Don’t get too confident … You never really know what awaits you and your team at each clue site. Proceeds from this event will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Louisiana (BBBS of NELA), a program of The Wellspring. BBBS of NELA is a nation-

ally acclaimed mentoring program that provides children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of young people in our community. BBBS of NELA makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (”BIGS”) and children (”LITTLES“) ages 7-18 in Ouachita, Morehouse, Franklin, Lincoln and Richland Parishes. Don’t miss out on the fun! Grab up to seven people 21 and over, and form a team today! You can register by phone at 318.323.9034 or online at bbbsofnela.org/peachykeen.

Find the Perfect Gift for the Bride-to-Be

Bridal Registry Now Available at Material Things

PRING IS JUST AROUND THE corner, and with the new season comes new additions at Material Things, conveniently located on Forsythe Avenue in Monroe. In addition to their extensive home dĂŠcor and bedding selection, Material Things is proud and excited to announce that bridal registry is another service that they have added to their services. Brides are invited to come in to the store, meet one-on-one with a Material Things employee and hand select items for their registry. Material Things has a variety of items that any new bride needs to start their new life in marital bliss! Every bride deserves to feel like a princess and that is exactly how the Lili Alessandra bedding will make one feel!

With soft coverlets and plush pillows, this linen line is a must for a bridal registry. All brides love to entertain in their new home, and Material Things has a variety of tableware to make any dinner party complete! Ceramic serving pieces, gorgeous glassware, beautiful bowls and monogrammed napkins are just a few of the items that will make any bride swoon. No home would be complete without items from the Caldrea line of home and body care products. With products that contain the most potent and responsible ingredients that are incredibly effective, yet sage and gentle, Caldrea makes caring for your home a beautiful experience. A unique item available for gift registry is artwork. Material Things features prints and pictures, as well as paintings from

Louisiana based artists. These pieces are unique, one-of-a-kind items that are perfect for the bride that has everything and wants to complete her home with beautiful art! In addition to bridal registry services, Material Things makes "house calls" and provides a wide range of decorator services. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s custom window treatments, bedding or just getting the right accents for your home, Material Things can help you make your house a home. With Spring on the way, outdoor statuary and pottery from Elegant Earth and Campo de' Fiori is the perfect way to add elegance to your exteriors. It wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be long before the days turn longer, and we are all enjoying time in our yards and gardens!

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Northeast Louisiana’s Only Restaurant Delivery Service

Let Chef Taxi Deliver Your Next Meal

OU HAVE HAD A LONG DAY AT WORK. YOU HAVEN’T thought about dinner once, until you walked in the door. Wouldn't it be great if someone could feed your family without you having to go back out into the cold? You want to do something special for a big client, but you are totally swamped. What if there was someone that could run some muffins by their office to show them how much you care? Now there is! Chef Taxi is a new company, the only food delivery service in northeast Louisiana to be exact, that can deliver eats right to your door from some of Monroe and West Monroe's finest establishments. Tommy Neck, owner of Northpro Landscape and Lawn Care has started a new business venture. He has been in lawn care since the late nineties. Northpro has received awards such as Best Lawncare in the Delta and Best Landscaper for multiple years. Tommy saw the need for a service in our area that could deliver high quality

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food (not just pizza) to busy professionals and families on-the-go. Chef Taxi is sure to please patrons all over the area… A big city service right here in Monroe and West Monroe. Why go out when you can dine in without having to leave for takeout? Chef Taxi delivers food from Monroe and West Monroe areas. Fox's Pizza in Monroe and West Monroe, Monjuni's, Trio's, El Chile Verde, Dickey’s, Tummy Yummy Creations and The Coffee Bean are the restaurants that have signed on for the service, but the list is only expected to continue to grow, as more and more are added. Find them on Facebook and like their page for great incentives and more information. Join their text club for a free delivery to try it out and also receive coupon codes and alerts for future promotions. Perhaps the best thing about Chef Taxi is that you can order online with just a few clicks at www.cheftaxi.com. Or you can call 318-855-8619 to easily order.

Excellent Service at Carwash West

Car Wash West is All About You

INCE 1991, CAR WASH WEST HAS provided Monroe and West Monroe with the finest wash and service available for your automobiles. Ross and wife Cathi got into the business after a friend asked Ross to be an assistant manager. Now, almost 25 years later, they are still providing a friendly environment for all areas of maintenance on their vehicles. Customers can drive up, select the car wash or lube service, get their windshields fixed, cars detailed and gas tanks filled, all while waiting in the convenient coffee shop and lunch spot, Café ExpressO. Car Wash West provides a variety of options which include full service, hand washes, detail services and exterior express. “We guarantee you a clean car that meets

your expectations. If there is an area of your vehicle that needs special attention, let us know, and we will take care of it for you,” comments Ross Thompson. Their professional and courteous car wash attendants are ready to make your car look its best. They are here to pamper you and your vehicle with the award winning service you deserve, just relax inside at Café ExpressO. Car Wash West has a VIP Rewards Club that offers a 48-hour clean car guarantee, (exterior wash in the event of rain, bird droppings, etc.), every 10th wash free, 15% discount when returning within 15 days, and FREE birthday wash. They can also customize a monthly or yearly plan for your vehicle. Mrs. Salina has been the greeter for Car Wash for close to 20 years. She is well-

known in the community for her positive attitude and her very accurate memory. After you have driven through Car Wash West once, she is likely to remember you and what your preferences are. Car Wash West is unique in that where most automotive businesses can be intimidating to women, they provide a comfortable, non-threatening atmosphere. They offer Ladies Day every Wednesday, where ladies receive 20% off car wash services. Their main objective is to spoil you. It is like a spa service for your car, their goal is to meet your needs and give you a great place to relax while you wait.

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NATURAL

BEAUTY Exploring the artistic world of Margaret Moses. From her tranquil studio, she creates stunning works of abstract art that are a natural balance between man and nature. ARTICLE BY MARY NAPOLI AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRAD ARENDER he path to artist Margaret Moses' studio is tranquil and calming. The door to the space where she creates her stunning works of abstract art is open wide, bidding nature to enter. This open door could be a metaphor for her creative process, as Moses invites the outside world into nearly every aspect of her aesthetic. On the surface, the artist's work presents a visual of poetic harmony between color, shape and texture and seems to represent the search for a lost balance between man and nature. Moses drew her first breath in Houston as Margaret Jackson and was raised there for her first decade. The family relocated to Monroe, where Moses would eventually attend ULM and earn a degree in interior design. Many locals sought out her design skills during the years she spent at Inside Indigo, where her modern, uncluttered, elegant style was admired. The home she shares with husband Brent Moses and their two young daughters, Addison and Emma, is every bit as breathtaking as one might imagine. Although Monroe is home, time spent with family in Texas remains a lifelong source of inspiration. Her mother is creative in many ways. The delicate, detailed hand she uses in working with fabrics easily translates to painting, which she enjoys doing with Moses' paternal aunt, who is a successful artist in Denver. Moses' sister is also an artist, but draws from a perspective that is grounded in realism, more so than the abstract methods her sister prefers. The most revered and celebrated artist of her family was her

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grandfather, the truly brilliant Charles Schorre, who created captivating, innovative works of art that crossed all mediums. Schorre, who passed away in 1996, was a respected and greatly admired presence in the art world and found great success throughout his long career. His expansive body of work still serves as inspiration to Moses today, and her childhood memories of time spent in his studio are meaningful and treasured. "He always had jazz playing (in his studio). My sister and I...we knew to be kind of quiet and go to our spot that he had made for us, so that we could work on our stuff while he worked on his. He 116 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

would set us up with some canvases or paper and encourage us to go for it. We would stay there for hours working," recalls Moses. Artistry may be in her DNA, but on a daily basis, her biggest inspiration comes from the outdoors. Colors and textures of objects found in nature often serve as inspiration for her paintings-the threads of color found in a jagged rock, the fibrous density and vibrant pigments of vegetation, the delicate opaqueness of a flower petal, the vastness of an azure sky. Each canvas produces the essence of a triumphant surrender to nature.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good characteristics for painting for me are: in doubt, outrageousness, mysteriously beautiful, unidentifiable elegance, always inventive and uniquely my own.â&#x20AC;? ~ MARGARET MOSES

"I might take a photograph of something (found in nature), because I like the way it looks. My mother took a photo of an old cistern wall...so there was this combination of metal and algae and rust. But to me, it looks like an abstract painting. I took the photo and painted my version of it, and now that painting is in Summerhouse Gallery in Jackson." Her studio is brimming with creative energy. Large canvases rest on the floor, where Moses can easily maneuver them as she paints. As she stands over them with brush in hand, it is as though she paints from a unique perspective where nature and humanity collide. Her process is organic and instinctive and fosters an ambiguity that focuses on physical shapes and textures. She works with paints and washes of varying consistency to create specific effects through layering. All the while, she maintains a harmonious balance between color and texture to where one does not overpower the other. "My older work was less about texture and more about how the paints mixed and reacted to each other. Sometimes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a layering process of the paints and playing with heavier textures. I go back and forth between landscape and cloud type shapes and more of a linear structure." Her exceptional talent is admired locally, in galleries throughout the South and is often commissioned by collectors. Moses may meditate on an idea before her brush touches the canvas, but creating the work is a visceral experience. "I don't always have a clear idea of what I want something to look like. I may have a thought of a place that I have visited or saw something that sparked my interest, like a color palette. I begin from there and paint until I am happy with the result. Many things in nature inspire me...the bark of a tree, an old barn where the paint has weathered producing different shades. I look at something ordinary and find the beauty in it." The colors and lines of her works are engaging and alluring and invite the viewer to form something of a elucidative coil with the image. The artwork holds an energetic, expressive quality that collectors of Moses' work can intuitively sense. As with many abstract painters, she hopes for the viewer to find their own connection with the work. However, the titles of her paintings can sometimes provide guidance and act as a point of reference. "It (the title) helps the viewer of the art...it takes them to the place you are intending to take them or lead them in that direction," explains Moses. George Schorre once described the core attributes he endeavored to achieve in his own creations. Similarly, Moses has inherited her grandfather's inspired approach. Schorre's words could be used to describe the ethereal artwork of the gifted granddaughter: "Good characteristics for painting for me are: in doubt, outrageousness, mysteriously beautiful, unidentifiable elegance, always inventive and uniquely my own." Moses' aesthetic journey is her own, but like the work of her beloved grandfather, she leaves a lasting impression.

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Poetry Out Loud Students Get Classical With Contest | by Michael DeVault

ix students from area high schools put their poetry skills on display Feb. 15 to compete for their chance to travel to Baton Rouge and, eventually, to the nation’s capitol. The students were competing in Poetry Out Loud, an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts aimed at getting high schoolers involved in poetry and interpretation. This year’s competition was organized by Cathy Webb, director of educational advancement at Strauss Youth Academy for the Arts. Webb applauded the initiative of the students while also encouraging parents in attendance to continue supporting artistic development in the children’s schools. That is, after all, the NEA’s goal in

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putting the national poetry competition together. “They really wanted a way to involve students, viscerally, in the poetry, which can be so obscure,” said Webb. “Through acting and interpretation, these students gain a deeper understanding of these rich poems.” Poetry Out Loud began in 2006, and each year it awards thousands of dollars in funds to students and their schools to encourage poetry appreciation in the schools. Competitors begin at the school level, with each participating classroom holding a contest to determine a winner. Those students compete at the school level, which in turn leads to a regional level. Winners at regional competitions, such

as the one held at Northminster Church, advance to the state competition, where they will compete against hundreds of students from around Louisiana. The winner of the state contest receives an all-expensepaid trip, including a chaperone, to Washington, D.C. for the national Poetry Out Loud contest. Additionally, the winning student received $200 while the student’s sponsoring school receives $500 to fund the purchase of poetry books. Once at the national level, the NEA awards $50,000 in prizes and stipends to students and their schools. Each participant selects a poem from the designated library of poetry compiled on the NEA’s Poetry Out Loud web site. The site features poems by classicists such as Robert Burns and Margaret Fuller, as well as more modern selections by contemporary poets Ilya Kaminsky and Mary Jo Salter. Also represented are American greats, such as Carl Sandburg, Wendell Berry and Billy Collins. By providing students with a curated list of poets and their works, the contest

helps drive interest in quality poetry and the poets who produce the works. All told, thousands of students will gain exposure to thousands of poems each year, thanks to the Poetry Out Loud competition. This year’s local competitors were informed prior to the contest that the state organization was allowing up to three students to compete in the state contest March 8. The top three competitors were, in ascending order, Kendra Rowell, Ouachita Parish High School; Nathan McCarty, Ouachita Parish High School; and first prizewinner Jackson Culp, Sterlington High School. Culp was ecstatic about his win and said he’s looking forward to continuing his competitive activities at the state level. Poetry Out Loud marked Culp’s first foray into competitive activities, though he has long been a participant in shows at SYAA. He’s already looking ahead to Baton Rouge. “I think I’ll learn to better control my emotions through poems, and to develop more nuance as an actor,” Culp said. He was encouraged to join the contest

Lauren Turner, Hope Hutson, Jackson Culp, Nathan McCarty, Kendra Rowell and Tristen Menzies competed in Poetry Out Loud.

by Webb and by teachers at Sterlington, and he said the decision to participate proved to be a good one. “I wanted to get in a competition that was something similar to the (English Speaking Union’s) Shakespeare Competition,” Culp said. “I thought this was a good opportunity.” Following the contest, Webb gushed about the talent displayed by each of the competitors, and she noted how close judging was. In addition to the three competi-

tors who advance to state, Hope Hutson, Tristan Menzies, and Lauren Turner competed. Judging was conducted by Daria Britt, Peggy Brooks, Michael DeVault, Anthony Turner, Linda Traweek, Heather Gulde, Roxanna Butler, and Justin Overacker. For more information about Poetry Out Loud, visit the NEA’s Web site at www.poetryoutloud.org.

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Guest Speaker Takei at ULM Lyceum Series

ULM Lyceum Series Welcomes Star Trek’s George Takei

EORGE TAKEI, WIDELY KNOWN for playing the character Hikaru Sulu in the popular Star Trek series, will speak at the University of Louisiana at Monroe as part of this year’s Lyceum Series, at 7 p.m., on March 31, in ULM’s Brown Auditorium. A Patron Party will precede the event at 5 p.m., in the ULM Library Conference Center, located on the seventh floor of the ULM Library. Takei has a large social media fan base with over 9 million combined Facebook and Twitter followers. His career, which has spanned over five decades, includes an array of roles in television, film and on the Broadway stage. More recently, however, Takei has been heralded for his social activism, screen-

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writing and media influence. From age 4 to 8, Takei—who was born in the United States—was unjustly interned in two United States internment camps during World War II because of his Japanese heritage. One of the camps was located in southern Arkansas, about 100 miles from ULM. Takei has brought his voiceover talent to hundreds of characters in film, television, video games and commercials during his prolific career. In film, Takei can be heard voicing characters in such films as Mulan; Mulan II; and Batman Beyond: The Movie. He has voiced characters for numerous animated series including The Simpsons; Transformers: Animated; Kim Possible; Futurama; Avatar: The Last Airbender; Spider-Man; The Smurfs; and George Lucas’s Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

A documentary on Takei’s life and career titled, “To be Takei” was released in August 2014 and can be found on various streaming platforms including Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, Google Play and many others.

TICKETS: ULM students may purchase one ticket at a discounted price of $3. ULM faculty and staff may purchase one ticket at a discounted price of $15. General admission tickets are $25; and Patron Party tickets are $50. Tickets may be purchased online at http://ulm.edu/lyceum/tickets.html For more information, contact Laura Jennings, at knotts@ulm.edu or at 318-342-5287. Photo courtesy Victoria Will

Cutting Edge Technology... Right Here at Home

Morehouse General Hospital Sets the Bar High for State-of-the-Art Technology and Care in Northeast Louisiana and Southeast Arkansas

OREHOUSE GENERAL HOSPITAL is the regional center for healthcare in northeast Louisiana and southeast Arkansas. Our experienced staff, convenient hours and state-of-the-art technology continue to give Morehouse General Hospital the cutting edge over other healthcare facilities, when considering an endoscopic procedure. When looking at what sets us apart from the rest, we routinely use technology that other hospitals in the area aren't offering. Morehouse General Hospital is one of the first hospitals in our area to use hi-definition equipment and carbon dioxide insufflation for endoscopy. Compared with conventional equipment, hi-def endoscopy provides doctors with sharper images and better contrast to more accurately diagnose diseases of the

upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. Studies have shown that the use of carbon dioxide in these procedures is absorbed by the body 150 times faster than regular air and decreases the discomfort that patients feel during and after the procedure. At Morehouse General Hospital we routinely use moderate sedation, rather than traditional sedation, for endocscopy which can result in considerable cost savings to the patient, improved recovery times and decreased nausea. The majority of patients, who are otherwise healthy, will qualify for moderate sedation. At Morehouse General Hospital, moderate sedation is administered by a board certified gastroenterologist who is trained in moderate sedation, rather than a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) or an

anesthesiologist, which are routinely used in most hospitals for this procedure. As a result of these advances in technology being provided at Morehouse General Hospital, our patients can expect to see improved accuracy in diagnoses, experience shorter procedure times and incur significant cost savings. Ask your doctor about your risk factors and if you need a colonoscopy. Call 318.283.2177 for more information. Morehouse General Hospital accepts Medicaid, Medicare and most private insurance.

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Where Dance Meets Design 5th Annual Fashion Fusion

ARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR AN EXCITING NIGHT of dance, fashion, art and entertainment! The Debbie Bourg Dancers will present the Fifth Annual Fashion Fusion – “Where Dance Meets Design” to benefit the Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 18th at the West Monroe Convention Center. Fashion Fusion will feature performances by the talented Debbie Bourg Dancers fused with a high energy runway-type Style Show. The theme of this year’s event is “Once Upon a Dream” featuring the amazing work of local photographer Savannah Kate! Her captivating photos have been the inspiration for the choreography by Kelsey Bourg Tanner, which will make a night of true enchantment! Mr. Zach Wilson will be returning as our special guest. Zach has numerous television and movie credits including Disney’s High School Musical. Paired with our own Kelsey Bourg Tanner as winners of “Dance Wars,” the two are excited to be performing together again for this year’s Fashion Fusion. This year’s production features fourteen of the area’s boutiques! Participating are: Bayou Gypsy, Bent Oaks, Cara’s, Duck and Dressing, J & H Boots and Jeans, K-Sera, Hemline, HerringStone’s, Miss Persnickety Joon, Mr.P’s Tees, Moody Blues, Rustic Rose and The Twisted Peacock. We are excited to announce that included in the ticket price this year will be the after party, featuring live music by Jack Rabbit Slims! The Debbie Bourg Dancers are an award-winning competition performing company. They are well known in the community for their strong talent and sensational ability to entertain. The dancers are dedicated students that strive to take their training to a higher level, including using their talent to make a difference in the community! Proceeds from this event will benefit the Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana, an umbrella agency whose mission is to “create communities where children and families thrive.” 10 different initiatives of the Children’s Coalition benefit children from birth to age 21. Among the programs offered are Child Care Connections, Al’s Pals: Kids Making Healthy Choices, Child Health and Safety, Parent Education, Teen Screen and Youth Suicide Prevention. Sponsorship/VIP packages are still available by contacting the Children’s Coalition at 318.323.8775. 122 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

Spring Open House

McKinney Honda Celebrates 30 Years

T ALL BEGAN 54 YEARS AGO, WHEN THE MCKINNEY family became owners of a small chain saw shop in the small town of Simsboro. Several years later, they relocated to Ruston and added Honda motorcycles and 4-wheelers into the mix and the growth began rapidly! McKinney Honda, conveniently located on the I-20 Service Road North in Ruston, continues to expand the products and services they offer, as they strive to be “your outdoor superstore.” This year marks 30 years of sales and service at the Ruston store and McKinney Honda is celebrating with their annual Spring Open House. McKinney invites everyone to come see their outdoor superstore during their Spring Open House on March 21. With food, refreshments and live music, there is something for the entire family. In addition to the fun, McKinney will be offering special deals and savings and will give away a Hustler Turf 52” Raptor mower. People come from near and far to shop for lawn equipment, from Stihl and Shindaiwa chainsaws, trimmers and blowers to Honda, Hustler and John Deere lawn mowers. McKinney has a variety of tools and equipment for the average homeowner to professionals. “Our customers know that if they buy their power equipment here, they are buying the best quality, and they’ll get service when they need it,” said owner Richie McKinney. McKinney’s has built its reputation upon service and features a large parts and accessories department. “Our service technicians continually update their skills at schools,” said McKinney. “We have 11 technicians and 4 are fully-certified by Honda.” In addition to the extensive equipment and tools, McKinney also features a wide selection of apparel items. “We carry a lot of great brands including Southern Marsh, Costa Del Mar, Columbia, Browning, Under Armour and Drake,” Richie states. “We don’t just have clothes either, we offer Luminox watches, Yeti ice chests and a large selection of Ray Ban sunglasses.” In order to see everything McKinney offers – from clothes to chainsaws, lawn mowers to leaf blowers – visit the Spring Open House this month! WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

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Shamrock Shuffle Pub Crawl

Monroe Renaissance Celebrates St. Patrick’s Day

ONROE RENAISSANCE IS celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in true Irish fashion with their bi-monthly Downtown Pub-Crawl on Thursday, March 5. The non-profit group, made of volunteers that are working to revitalize downtown, have coordinated a pub-crawl to bring together 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 making each stop and getting their passport stamped, pub-crawlers will drop off their completed passport at the last stop – Enoch’s Irish Pub – for their chance to win a figurative pot of gold, prizes donated by Choice Brands.

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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 pub-crawl route. The six participating locations are Enoch’s Irish Pub, Neat, Shananigan’s, Live Oaks, 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 products, including green beer! The Downtown Pub-Crawl takes place the first Thursday of every other month. For more information, find Monroe Renaissance on Facebook – facebook.com/MonroeRenaissance Monroe Renaissance is a non-profit organization consisting of volunteers that have spearheaded and contributed to many proj-

ects throughout the downtown area including the brick planter located on Art Alley, the Downtown River Market, planting trees along DeSiard Street and more. During the Christmas season, Monroe Renaissance spent over $10,000 to decorate the downtown area with white Christmas lights, oversaw “Walking in a Window Wonderland” art project and hosted their annual “Up on the Rooftop” party at the Vantage parking garage. In addition, the group is responsible for the Independence Day and Christmas Firework Shows. All of these projects and efforts were done to stimulate and make possible the reawakening of downtown Monroe through community participation, resulting in an enhanced quality of life.

Lacey Stinson Displays Collection at The Schepis Lacey Stinson Revealed Hosted Until the End of February ward winning artist Lacey Stinson announced that a collection of his life's work, “Lacey Stinson Revealed,” will be hosted at the Schepis Museum in Columbia, Louisiana. Lacey is a local artist who is known for his dynamic and colorful abstract and landscape oil paintings. The solo exhibit will be on display from now through the end of February. A reception for “Revealed” will be held Thursday, February 26, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Lacey Stinson lives and creates his art in Ruston and has been an artist there and throughout the South for more than 30 years. Regarding this art show, Stinson stated “I am very pleased and gratified to be invited by the Schepis Museum for this solo show. It is nice to be recognized locally in the art community of Northern Louisiana, because it is

where I live and work.” The Schepis Museum is a beautifully renovated historic building with two stories of gallery spaces. It is a popular venue for art and cultural events, fundraisers and private receptions. The Schepis Museum is located at 106 Main Street, Columbia, Louisiana 71418. The museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. – Tel. 1-318-649-9931.

About Artist Lacey Stinson: Lacey Stinson lives and works in Ruston, Louisiana. A graduate of Louisiana Tech, Lacey has been represented in museums and galleries of the South, including the Masur Museum, ArtMelt, the Brunner Gallery and D.O.C.S. Gallery in New Orleans. In addition, he has illustrated children's and poetry books. Lacey Stinson is currently working on a series of life event portraits featuring new mothers and their babies. His website can be found at LaceyStinson.com, and he can be reached at painter@DancingOkra.com.

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MD Minerals Studio and Spa On Thursday, February 12, Paris came to Monroe when MD Minerals Studio and Spa by Dr. Janine Hopkins hosted a spotlight on Caudalie Paris. An insightful talk and was provided by Caudalie’s own Nadia Benchakroun. Guests enjoyed wine from the Caudalie family vineyard and sampled the products as they toured the newly renovated spa. Gifts, giveaways and mini spa treatments were the highlight of the evening, as guests mingled with Dr. Hopkins, her staff and Nadia.

On the BayouScene

1 Janine Hopkins, Cathi French-Roberts and Lori French 2 Ashley Lowery, Susan Hopper, Kim Glenn 3 Judy Marx and Cindy Hoover 4 Margie Sullivan and Paige Danna 5 Cyndi Tatum and Kori Clowers 6 Allie Laﬃtte, Christy Boardman, Mary Kathryn McGuﬃe, Amanda Colvin, Julia Whittington 7 Francis Coenen, Lou Jones, Martha Jane Anderson, Sharon Brown, Noreen Smith 8 Beth Murphy, Nadia Benchakroun and Donna Winters 9 Lori French, Hannah Harris, Cathi French-Roberts and Jennifer Brown 10 Jennifer Brown and Mary Boyer 11 Nadia Benchakroun speaking to the crowd 12 Joyce Sims and Peggy Gonzales

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Create Your Own Perfect Space

HGTV® Home Furniture Gallery at Sleepy Hollow Furniture

GTV® HAS BECOME A TRUSTED source for smart home and garden advice and inspiration for more than 99 million U.S. households. The creative minds at HGTV HOME™ tapped into the decorating advice that you know and love from their shows to create furniture collections rooted in their philosophy: Fresh Style from the Design Experts at HGTV®. We know that decorating can be daunting, but we like to keep it simple. Everything we do is a fresh take on two timeless styles we love: Modern and Classic. With over 300 pieces and growing, we’ve got every room covered… bedroom, dining, occasional, upholstery, home entertainment and accents. We’ve done the work, so you don’t have to! Mix and match pieces from our collections to create your own perfect space. Each collec-

tion offers very different looks that mix, match and mingle. Choose from signature pieces, fashionable upholstery options and timelessly stylish bedroom, dining room, entertainment and accent selections. We’ve even added extra features that help make life at home a little easier, like hidden plugs in select pieces so you’re never far from a power source and versatile storage items to help you stay organized. The furniture collections complement the HGTV HOME™ portfolio of products which includes paint, flooring, lighting, plants and other home products. We’ve wrapped this all up together in rooms that inspire, yet are easy to transform. The HGTV HOME™ Furniture Collection is produced under license by Bassett Furniture Industries, who has been making

quality furniture for 110 years. Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc., is a leading manufacturer and marketer of high quality, mid-priced home furnishings. Bassett's retail strategy includes affordable custom-built furniture that is ready for delivery in the home within 30 days. The Bassett Home Furnishings stores also feature the latest on-trend furniture styles, more than 750 upholstery fabrics, free in-home design visits, and coordinated decorating accessories. Sleepy Hollow Furniture is proud to partner with HGTV and Bassett Furniture as North Louisiana’s only HGTV Home Furniture Gallery! Create. Inspire. Refresh. Imagine. Custom. Your way to a look that reflects your own personal style!

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Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker is focused on transforming his city. He is this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s BayouIcon.

A NEW MAYOR IN TOWN

Life in Motion

From Making the Town More Business Friendly to Diversifying the City’s Economy, Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker is Pushing To Transform His Community | by Michael DeVault ituated on North Trenton Street, one of Ruston’s busiest thoroughfares, City Hall lies at almost the exact center of the town. Hundreds of cars scurry by each hour, an indicator of the vibrant, thriving community that is modern Ruston. From a quiet second floor office overlooking a verdant, tree-shaded lawn, Ronny Walker is quietly going about the business of transforming his city. Walker assumed office Jan. 5 after winning a twoman race to replace long-time mayor Dan Hollingsworth. His platform centers on making Ruston more business friendly and diversifying the city’s economy. But first, Walker needs to get the computers working. "On Oct. 28, the City of Ruston started to have problems with our computer systems,” Walker told BayouLife. “On Dec. 13, every computer in our city's government collapsed." From that point on, city business was frozen. Unable to perform vital tasks such as produce and mail utility bills, work ground to a halt. By any measure, Walker’s first days in office were challenging. “We had no email. You

could not call the mayor's office,” Walker said. “We lost six weeks of data from Oct. 28 to Dec. 13 that we had to manually rebuild. And it had to all be in sequence, in every department in our city." But Walker was undeterred and took the challenges in stride. He recalled to Mayor Hollingsworth that on Hollingsworth’s first day as mayor in 1999, 60 percent of Ruston was without power due to an ice storm. “And he went on to be an absolutely fabulous mayor,” Walker said. By mid-February, Walker estimated that the computers were 70 percent functional, and there is still a long way to go before city government is back, firing on all cylinders. But for Walker, it’s just one more opportunity for improvement. “We'll be stronger in the end, because we're going to take the steps, to put in whatever we need to put in, to prevent it from ever happening again,” Walker said. That’s unsurprising to anyone who knows Walker, who at 63 seems to have the boundless energy and enthusiasm of a man half his age. Part of that enthusiasm is no doubt why he was a successful youth minister for more than 10 years at Temple Baptist Church. It’s also at the root

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of the charisma that helped him succeed in banking at First National Bank of Ruston. But there’s something more, deeper. Just ask First National senior vice president Sam Ponder, who worked with Walker at the bank for more than 20 years. According to Ponder, Walker is a consummate multitasker, who is constantly looking forward to the next enterprise on the horizon. “He is constant motion,” Ponder said of Walker. “He’s personable, approachable, and he’s always trying to please the people around him.” That is a winning combination in a town where everyone knows everyone else and where southern hospitality is elevated to an almost sacred position. “We couldn’t have asked for a better choice for mayor. He has a lot of initiative to see Ruston grow, and he has the enthusiasm to make it happen,” Ponder added. The kind of growth Walker is seeking, though, requires an optimism and tenacity that’s rare in today’s world of retail politics. Walker credits his vision and his hyperkinetic lifestyle to his upbringing. A native of Flora, MS, Walker grew up in a sleepy country town, where his father was a Southern Baptist minister and his mother worked retail. Even at a young age, Walker was driven. “You could start working as soon as your parents would let you. So I started really early in life. And I always had a lot of things going on,” Walker said. He attended elementary school, junior high and high school in Flora, ultimately grad-

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uating as one of a class of 10 students, each of whom he had known his entire life. Even though they were few in numbers, Flora residents valued diverse experiences, and they appreciated competitive sports. There was just one problem. “"You couldn't have a football team, basketball team and a baseball team unless everybody played every sport,” Walker said. “Oh, and by the way you had to be in the band, too." Maybe that’s why, at 63, he still has so many irons in the fire. While juggling a major computer and data crisis, Walker hasn’t held back on his agenda of bringing in new businesses to Ruston. Specifically, he’s on the hunt for a light manufacturer to come to town. As with the other aspects of his life, Walker didn’t take time to catch his breath. On his third day in office, Walker heard of a Chinese firm that had selected a site in Texas to build a new facility. Unfazed, Walker waded in. “I begged and pleaded for them to give us a shot. We had them here last Thursday and Friday to sell our city.” Whatever Walker said apparently made an impression. The company is now seriously reconsidering its Texas decision in favor of a Ruston facility. “We’ve got a really good shot at them,” Walker said. “But we’ve got to be doing more of that.” If the firm, which Walker has declined to name, ultimately chooses Ruston, it will be the second such project to come to the town in 15 years. So, for the immediate future, Walker’s

sights are fixed on attracting at least one potential new employer to visit Ruston each month. “"We're really going out and searching for new businesses to come here,” Walker said. "My dad used to say rising water raises all the ships. That's true." Even though he wants to find new economic development opportunities, Walker isn’t wholly fixed on moving into the future. Ruston is, after all, a college town at heart, and Walker intends to remain true to that. "We want this to be a college town, not just a town with a college in it,” he said. Part of that identity means forging stronger connections between the campus of Louisiana Tech and the bustle of downtown Ruston. Projects on the horizon include new sidewalks connecting campus to commercial, retail and entertainment venues. Also, the Public Works department is exploring deployment of a citywide Wi-Fi Internet service to help entice students downtown. In addition, Walker wants to make sure Tech knows how committed Ruston is to the school’s continued success. "A perfect example is that Tech is about to build a 110,000 sq. foot, $37 million engineering building,” Walker said. “We've been meeting with them on the infrastructure needs. As a city, we're trying to find grants and money available for $2.5 million to meet those infrastructure needs." Walker is quick to point out, too, that it’s not just about Tech. In a very real way, Ruston is a two-college town. After all, Grambling res-

idents and students come to Ruston daily to conduct commerce, to dine, to shop or to catch a movie. To Walker, Grambling is as much a part of the Ruston landscape as Tech. Strengthening those ties is equally important, which is why his administration is in the final stages of pushing through an interchange on I-20 at Tar Button Road. Walker describes the new interchange as a collaboration between Ruston, Grambling, Tech, GSU and the Lincoln Parish Police Jury. Some 17 years in the making, this project has at times bordered on a fable. But if Walker has his way, that’s all going to change quickly. "The money is there. We've got the funding,” Walker said. “Now, we just need to get it to bid, to build the project. That's going to tie the two cities together even more." This is the kind of dynamic action Ponder points to when he talks about Walker’s ability to lead. He describes his friend and colleague as “a force for growth,” which is something Ponder believes Ruston is primed for. “We all have families. We want something for our kids, and you’re either growing or dying,” Ponder said. Yet, both Ponder and Walker note that growth should be pursued with a measure of caution. As Ponder stated it, “He’s a citizen and he wants the best growth for the people.” That could mean pursuing opportunities as they arise, but not at the expense of the community at large or at other, established presences in the community. How does Walker intend to gauge such matters? He points back to the community that elected him. "We need more people involved in government,” Walker said. Though Walker is surprised he is the mayor, he says a life in politics had always appealed to him. From a very young age, he had hoped to one day run for office, and for a time in his youth, it looked like a career in law would be his path. “But, I felt God's call to go into the ministry, and I followed that path, instead,” Walker said. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Mississippi State University before receiving a Masters of Religious Education from Southwestern Seminary. After life at Temple, a banking career, and a sojourn as the director of fundraising for Louisiana Tech Athletics, Walker felt he was ready to lead his city. And after more than 30 years, Ruston is definitely his city. “I've loved this city ever since we've been here,” Walker said. That’s what happens when people put down roots. And Walker’s roots in the community are deep, indeed. His wife, Heather, has taken over running the various family businesses, from rental properties to Laundromats. Walker’s son Bradley operates a chain of Smoothie King franchises and, most recently, opened Parish Press, a coffee house in Ruston. Walker and his wife continue to raise two children in the community, and what of Walker’s seat on the Lincoln Parish Police Jury? “My Police Jury colleages selected Heather to serve out the remaining year of my term,” Walker said. Looking back on a long career and a life of constant motion, Walker said he has just one regret about his entrés into the political arena. "I think the biggest thing I would have done differently is that I would have started being involved in politics at a much younger age,” Walker said. Yet, had he done so, he wonders how he might have become a different person. In spite of his kinetic career, the constant movement of a life from the ministry to business to politics, Walker is a man of planning, reflection and contemplation. “I think the fact that I have had a diverse career--which in today's world is not unusual--helped me, because I've seen so many different avenues and so many different ways people do things,” Walker said. “I think all of that led me to this point." WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

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Let’s Parti Gras in Jackson!

Jackson to Host Parades March 20-29

ROSS INTO THE HILLY LANDSCAPE of Jackson, Mississippi this spring and keep the party going with “Parti Gras!” Kick off your weekend early Friday night, March 20th, with Hal’s Marching Malfunction! On March 21st, Jackson hosts the 32nd annual world-famous Mal’s St. Paddy’s Parade, also known as Jackson’s “Green Mardi Gras.” Attracting over 60,000 visitors from around the world. Mal’s St. Paddy’s Parade celebrates the rebirth of Mississippi’s capital city with a parade, music, street dance, children’s activities, a run, pet parade and so much more. We’ll make you feel right at home with the after party featuring Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, Dumpstaphunk, Brownout Presents Brown Sabbath and Roxy Roca! Fun follows March 27th-28th with the Zi pity Doo Dah Parade in Fondren, the historic

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arts district in the heart of Jackson. Inspired by the works of Jill Conner Browne’s Sweet Potato Queens novels, Zippity Doo Dah is a humor-infused celebration of freedom. You’ll definitely need a hat for the Friday Big Hat Brunch, and don’t forget your neon lights for the Friday night-time ElectroDash5k. Saturday morning begins with Sal and Mookie’s Street Carnival for the kids and is capped off with the Saturday night-time BancorpSouth Zippity Doo Dah Parade. This party with a purpose benefits the Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children. From March to July, the literary world comes to Jackson, MS to celebrate the centennial of Margaret Walker Alexander to honor her academic and artistic legacy, through lecture series, symposiums, exhibits a picnic and a Gala Celebration. Additionally, the biennial

of Eudora Welty will also be celebrated with a major 12-week fine arts festival concentrated in Downtown Jackson. The multi-disciplinary festival will incorporate art exhibitions and live performances celebrating this American visionary, author, photographer and thinker. Mark your calendars for the 3rd Annual Jackson Rhythm and Blues Festival, August 14-15, 2015. 2-Days, 5 Stages and Over 30 Artists! Headlining the festival: 10-time Grammy Award-winning Chaka Khan and the living legends and Grammy’s 2014 Special Merit Award recipients, The Isley Brothers. It’s Boomin! www.jacksonrhythmandbluesfestival.com. For more events and information, go to visitjackson.com.

Music to Our Eyes Monroe Symphony held their annual Pops Concert, "Music to Our Eyes: Blockbuster Film Scores" on Sunday, February 8 at the Monroe Civic Center. Music Director and Conductor, Clay Couturiaux, entertained the sellout crowd with a variety of Hollywood hits from Gone with the Wind, Goldfinger, The Godfather, Braveheart, Jurassic Park and more. Guest tables were equally entertaining as the music since guests decorated each one with a whimsical and creative themes. The afternoon was enjoyed by an audience of all ages and the talent of the symphony orchestra was spotlighted. We are so grateful to have such a wealth of talent in our community!

On the BayouScene

1 Front: Connor, Garrett, Parker and Patricia Cameron, Doug Wood; Back: Matthew Cameron, Olivia Weir, Regina and Ava Wood 2 Richard Ainsworth, Nancy and Guy Miller and Lee Ainsworth 3 Anne Patten, Nancy Miller and Carol McDonald 4 Hunt Neely, Al Peterson, Nancy Miller, Jay Curtis and Charles Jackson 5 Melanie King, Debby Edgerton, Laurie Majure, Lee Pierson, Nancy Kay Peters, Anne Patten and Judy Moore 6 Beverly Jarrell and Graham Abell

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BAYOU KIDZ Continued From Page 50

Whatever a child's fear or phobia is (and there is a difference), most are very legitimate and very normal. Trust me, some of the more stressful experiences we had with our daughter made me feel like I was letting her down as a parent. I could fix most everything in her life; why couldn't I help her arrest these fears and be a normal, (dog-loving) little girl? I even consulted her pediatrician, and he assured me that it was a normal fear and she would outgrow it (Dr. Rosales, if you tell me it’s Easter, I will dye my eggs.) In fact, he said, unless it hinders her ability to function in her everyday life, she, just like other children, would eventually outgrow her fears. Be patient, he said…easier to say than do I assure you, because in our case, most everyone we know in the entire universe has a dog. So visiting with family or friends, playing at the park or her being able to visit at her friend's house made life very stressful.

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In writing this month's column, I sought out the help of a child psychologist, as well as did my ritual reading of what the experts say. Many agree that the first step in helping your child overcome their anxieties, is recognizing that your child's fear is real. Also, never belittle your child's fear, as if you can push them into overcoming their distress. Next, provide support and loving care as your child approaches a feared object of situation, and do your best not to avoid the pending crisis. If you avoid the dog or the clown or Santa Claus at the mall, it will reinforce that they should be averted. Finally, teach your child some coping techniques, such as relaxation and reciting positive self-statements that reassures them they can overcome this fear. No, sorry, this is the finale, and this comes from my family's struggle, patience with your child is the key…and it has to come from everyone that lives under your roof.

I think it would have been much harder for my daughter to conquer her fears if her brother had made fun of her. As parents, if any of you are suffering (and in some cases, that's the only way to put it) from some of these same "symptoms," trust me when I say that the day will come when your child's dance teacher will send you a picture of your little girl embracing the studio pet…which happens to be a slightly chubby, very furry, golden doodle…no, not embracing, actually lying on top of the dog and smiling. The relief, the joy that you feel as a parent will take your breath, and you realize that you won't have to be carrying your daughter around on your shoulders when she's 21 if a dog is around. I hope this month's column will give parents reading it a little thread of support if they, too, are going through similar circumstances at home. Also, I will be perfectly willing to participate in a support group setting if anyone needs it. We quote frequently in my parent group that "it takes a village" to get these kids raised, and even if we aren't family and child therapists, we are parents, and oftentimes, personal experience goes a long way in encouraging and supporting our friends.

Choosing What’s Best for Your Child

Jesus the Good Shepherd Now Holding Open Registration for New Students

S A PARENT,YOU ALWAYS WANT what’s best for your child, – whether that means their health, education or faith. By choosing to send your child to Jesus the Good Shepherd School, you are providing them a unique opportunity to grow in Christ while performing at high academic standards. Our focus at JGS is to give our students the best spiritual, intellectual, physical and social environment available in north Louisiana. As a Catholic school, our focus remains on Christ, because we know that what a child believes is as important, if not more important, than what they know. It is our mission to instill a knowledge and love of God, self and others by providing for our students a lasting moral and academic foundation. We em-

phasize within our challenging curriculum, prayer, service, self-discipline, individual self-worth and a positive attitude toward others all within a safe environment. Our faith in Jesus Christ is the reason our school exists. Therefore, both spiritual and academic experiences at JGS enable students to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ, broaden their knowledge of their faith and connect their faith to their daily lives. The foundation of faith around which our academic programs are built, permeates every aspect of the school day and continues beyond. This faith-filled environment instills high degrees of self-confidence, self-respect and self-discipline among students. We know that an education should prepare students to be good stewards of God’s

gifts and active people of faith who serve others, make a difference in the world and participate in their faith and civic communities. Visit JGS, and you will notice the spirit of camaraderie among students, teachers, parents and administrators. Our school is a “community within a community” that unites people who share common values and goals as a community of faith. Open registration for new students for the 2015-2016 school year has begun. Please be sure to visit our website for more information including application and tuition information. School tours are offered each Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. or by making an appointment with our principal, Lisa Patrick.

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The Cathey Group

Information Technology Management

N INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, MOORE’S LAW STATES that processing power will double every two years. As processors and computers change, networks require change as well. As networks change, enterprise management needs to be positioned to transform and transition to the next generation IT Infrastructure. Their clients recognize The Cathey Group as a top tier transformation and transition provider. The Cathey Group is an Information Technology management consulting firm based in Monroe, Louisiana serving customers in the defense, intelligence, homeland security, federal/civilian agencies and commercial sectors. Together they have more than 75 years combined experience providing human capital to large-scale, secure, missioncritical IT programs. The Cathey Group delivers advanced senior program and project management, network-systems integration, IT services support, enterprise solutions and systems engineering. The Cathey Group’s past performance experience spreads across many Department of Defense components including US Army, US Navy, US Army Reserve, US Army Corps of Engineers, as well as the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Veterans Administration. “We have helped our clients effectively manage their classified and unclassified systems in the US, Europe and Asia,” said Stewart Cathey, Jr., managing partner of The Cathey Group. “Our professionals design, build and maintain enterprise IT architectures and systems to optimize customer IT infrastructures. We strive to hire the best talent out there. In our environment, our first course of action is to first seek out and hire qualified veterans to fill the mission critical positions.” The Cathey Group supports the Wounded Warrior Program principles by giving hiring preference to disabled veterans. Stewart Cathey, Jr. is a native of Monroe and a graduate of the University of Louisiana at Monroe. He currently serves as a Captain in the US Army in the US Army Reserve. He has deployed with The Army Corps of Engineers on several tours around the world providing his Program and Project management expertise. In 2010, he did a combat deployment to Afghanistan where he managed more than $250 million dollars in Infrastructure Development projects. The Cathey Group is excited about the future and the potential growth opportunities that lie ahead and they look forward to being able to help lead the way when it comes to optimizing IT infrastructures. 136 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

The Patio Place Celebrates First Anniversary

Local Showroom Offers Beautiful Outdoor Furniture and More

N CELEBRATION OF OUR FIRST anniversary and as a thank you to all our customers, The Patio Place is offering 10% off all in-store and custom order purchases for the week of March 16-21. We are also excited to announce that we are expanding our showroom floor in March to showcase even more of our beautiful outdoor offerings. Conveniently located in the Northgate Shopping Center on Forsythe Avenue in Monroe, we can help you with selections to make the most of your outdoor living space. We feature a wide variety of outdoor furniture, grills, firepits, rugs, lamps, art and accessories to complete your outdoor kitchen, sunroom, patio, poolside or lake home. Leading furniture manufacturers include Lloyd Flanders, Brown Jordan, Ebel, Hanamint, Meadowcraft, Jensen Leisure, Breezesta, Win-

ston, and Ancient Mosaic. The Patio Place also offers grills and accessories by Primo and Blaze. Beautiful rugs, lamps, cushions, hammocks and umbrellas are available from Casual Living, Hatteras Hammocks, Kenroy Home Lighting, Treasure Garden, Jaipur and Pawleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Island. Unique outdoor art is available in a wide variety of themes or customizable by sending us your high-resolution picture for transfer to cedar or spruce with UV protected ink. Let us give your existing furniture a new look this summer by replacing your cushions with your choice of Sunbrella or Outdura fabrics! The Design Center provides an excellent space for designers and their clients to meet while selecting fabrics and styles. The Patio Place also offers the services of an interior designer in the store or by appointment in your home at no extra

cost. Our experienced staff, Sierra Roberts, manager; Erin Foster, interior designer; Deborah Johnson and Debbie Worley, sales associates are here to assist you in creating that perfect outdoor getaway. We welcome your visit to allow us to share our selections with you. Owners Lynne and John Carter have been in the pool and spa business for over twenty years. They have expanded their offerings to include everything needed to create your outdoor oasis! Hours of operation are 10:00 am6:00 pm, Monday-Friday, and, beginning March 14, our new Saturday hours are 10:00 am-5:00 pm. Whether the project is home beautification or commercial needs, The Patio Place has the expertise and resources to help you create the perfect outdoor retreat.

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Consignment At It’s Best

Mark Your Calendar For Monroe’s Munchkin Market, March 11-14th BY CASSIE LIVINGSTON

PRING IS ALMOST HERE, AND THAT CAN ONLY MEAN one thing, The Monroe Munchkin Market Event is around the corner. From March 11-14th, the Spring/Summer 2015 will be held at 100 N 18th (Mt. Zion Family Life Center). There will be new and gently used children’s clothing (girls: newborn to junior; boys: newborn to 18), toys, books, DVDs, baby equipment, shoes and much more. Also in store for shoppers are name-brand handbags, totes and wallets “The sale is open to the public Wednesday, March 11, from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Thursday, March 12, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Friday, March 13, from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, March 14, from 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. On Friday and Saturday everything marked in RED is ½ price.” says India Gregg, co-owner. Monroe Munchkin Market is a small business started by longtime friends and moms India Gregg and Amie Smith, both of Monroe. “We are moms and know the expense of trying to keep children clothed. We saw in other markets that the consignment sales were hugely popular and realized moms want great clothes at prices that were affordable. We started out 8 years ago in a small location with clothes mostly consigned by our friends and family and have grown to 500+ consignors twice a year for a Spring Sale and Fall Sale. This is our 15th sale!” according to Gregg and Smith. I personally shop every Monroe Munchkin Market Event. I attended the new mom’s slot when my daughter was first born and was addicted right away. This Spring, I had people ask me if I was opening a daycare in the checkout line. I wasn’t - but I was stocking up for a small revamp we were doing at our church’s nursery. That is the great thing about Monroe Munchkin Market, you can find anything you need at a discount price. My friends always comment on how cute I dress Stella and Vivian and half of their clothes come from consignment. They have name brands like: Peaches n’ Cream, Matilda Jane, Kissy Kissy, Feltman Bros., Baby Threads and more. If you haven’t been, make sure you sign up today. Believe me, you don’t want to miss out on this event. Once you experience the Monroe Munchkin Market, you will keep it on your calendar for years to come. For more information about the sale visit www.monroemunchkinmarket.com, “Like” Monroe Munchkin Market on Facebook or send an email to info@monroemunchkinmarket.com. 138 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

Artist of the Month

Brenda C. McDaniel is Featured Artist in March at the River Gallery

rtist Brenda McDaniel of Monroe, LA is the featured artist for March at the Ouachita River Art Gallery on Trenton St. (Antique Alley) in West Monroe. Brenda specializes in representational paintings of people, animals, places and objects, with side trips into fantasy and imagination. This show is titled “Looking Up” and consists Stormy Weather of large oil paintings of by Brenda McDaniel skyscapes. The artist says, “When the world crowds in on me and I grow weary of dealing with everyday problems, I go outside and look up. It puts everything in proportion and refreshes my view of life. Sometimes we are so focused on what is right in front of us we forget the big picture.” A native of Mer Rouge, LA who traveled over much of the world complements of a military husband, Brenda gained knowledge that is reflected in her wide range of interests and subjects. Besides independent studies, private lessons and attending several universities around the country, she considers herself primarily a self-taught artist. Before deciding to paint full time she was a commercial artist employed in the advertising field where she received numerous local and national awards. Brenda has commissions of homes, portraits of people and pets, landscapes and still lifes hanging in private and corporate collections in the U.S.A., Europe and the United Kingdom. Brenda helped organize and open the Ouachita River Art Gallery, which is now the oldest, and possibly largest, co-op art gallery in the state. The gallery is open to the public free of charge Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. A large and varied membership offers paintings in all media, jewelry, photos, woodworks and pottery. Purchases of original art are tax free.

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Niland’s Lesson

The Minute That Made Me a Fan for Life

BY BILL DYE

HO IS YOUR ALL-TIMEfavorite NFL player? Manning? Brees? Brady? Who is it? Mine was John Niland. Never heard of him? Niland was an offensive guard for the Dallas Cowboys during the Landry era. I know, who picks an offensive lineman to be his favorite player? Everyone loves the skill guys. Not me. My favorite will always be John Niland. Back in the mid 1960’s, when I was in grade school, some of the Cowboys came to my hometown to play exhibition basketball against our High School coaches. As the players warmed up on the court, kids like me lined up around the gym for a favorite autograph. So there was eight-year-old-me, standing in line under the basketball goal, minding my

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own business as I waited for an autograph. Suddenly a 2nd string quarterback named Rome came crashing through the line after a lay-up. He looked at me and yelled, “Hey, you better get over there and stay out of the way!” I was stunned. Hot tears poured down my cheeks. I tried to fight them back, but it was no use – the damage was done. Not only had I gotten yelled at by an idol, I’d cried in front of all my buddies. John Niland must have seen it happen. The next thing I know, this giant has one of his tree trunk arms wrapped around my pencil neck. He’s right down in my face. I could see in his eyes that he cared about me. He asked me all sorts of questions. Encouraged me. I’m sure he was only there less than a minute, but that minute made me a fan for

life. Who’s your favorite NFL player? That’s easy. John Niland. I never got the autograph that night. Don’t even know who I was in line to see. It didn’t matter. Niland had left a much more indelible mark on me. In less than a minute, he’d taught me the power of encouragement. More than forty years have passed since that that balmy evening in the Denison High School gym, and Niland’s lesson still resonates in my heart. There is nothing quite so magnetic or powerful as being encouraged. Paul said it like this, “Therefore encourage one another, and build up one another” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Bill Dye is the Senior Pastor of North Monroe Baptist Church.

The Perfect Day Trip

Lewis’ Gifts in Shreveport is the Perfect Get-Away for a Day of Shopping

EWIS’ GIFTS, LOCATED IN SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA has been serving people all over the South for over 30 years. Situated on Youree Drive, in the heart of Shreveport’s premier shopping area, their selection cannot be matched. Their large store has gifts for everyone on your list from brides to women, men, and children. They carry a wide variety of gourmet products and even have a great lunch spot named Biscotti’s to stop and relax!

Bridal Registry Brides are always in for a treat when they step into Lewis Gifts. Their service and selection sets them apart from other retailers. They have over 100 tabletop lines to choose from that range from everyday to fine dining. Brides reserve an appointment with an experienced bridal registry consultant who will walk them through the entire process. The professional staff can assist them with every detail down to the bridesmaid and groomsman gifts. Brides can also create and update bridal registries online. Wedding guests and family then have the luxury of purchasing items online, in store or with a phone call. Lewis' also provides gift-wrapping at no charge, as well as local delivery. Lewis' is your one-stop-shop for Premier Bridal Registry!

History For over 75 years, the Lewis family has been a part of Shreveport, Louisiana's retail community. Four generations have offered service to an expanding customer base, beginning at one neighborhood drugstore, complete with soda fountain and gifts. The drugstore no longer exists, but "gifts and sundries" have found a wonderful new showcase in the Lewis’ location. There's nothing old about the high style of our 10,000 square foot store. What's reliable and still current is our commitment to our valued customers and our very personal service.

Lewis’ Gifts is located at 5807 Youree Drive in Shreveport, LA. Visit their website at www.lewisgifts.com to view their extensive selection of merchandise.

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IT’S ALL ABOUT DANCE THE RDA-SW DANCE FESTIVAL WILL BE HOSTED BY LOUISIANA DELTA BALLET MARCH 26-28 Photography By Martin G Martin

TO BE HONEST, if you don’t have a son or daughter participating in a Regional Dance America (RDA) dance festival, the chances of you making the trek to a distant city to see a weekend full of the future of dance are pretty slim. But with the return of the RDA member companies to the Monroe/West Monroe area on March 26-28, 2015, you will get your chance to see firsthand how the world shapes dance and dance shapes the world. Forget what you think you know about dance, and prepare to be amazed by pre-professional companies from cities throughout Louisiana, New Mexico, Texas and Arkansas. It’s not just tiaras and tutus anymore, but ballet is still the foundation. Louisiana Delta Ballet is the host company for the 2015 RDA-Southwest Regional Dance Festival, and LDB’s Artistic Director Missy Crain and her festival co-chairs Jeanine Balance Patton and Connie Walden have been working for years to ensure an incredible event for participants and audiences alike. Says President and CEO of Northeast Louisiana Arts Council, Tommy Usrey, “As one of the sponsors of Regional Dance America/Southwest Festival 2015, we hope the more than 800 dancers attending will bring their imagination and an appetite for learning, sharing and networking with old friends and new acquaintances; we want them to leave the Twin Cities tired, yet energized, and full of ideas for the future! It is the Council’s objective to continue providing the 142 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

means for access by all to the arts, providing valuable experiences for which there is no substitute, capturing the winning spirit of Northeast Louisiana.” Let’s start at the heart of the art, Regional Dance America began as a movement to advance and foster the growth and education of dancers, choreographers, directors and dance companies in every community across the United States and Canada. RDA provides a national identity and support for its five regional associations; Mid-States, Northeast, Pacific, Southeast and Southwest of which local dance companies, Twin City Ballet Company and Louisiana Delta Ballet are members. Development of member companies is further promoted through regional and national festivals by affirming standards of appraisal, evaluation and performance to which all members are held. The RDA-SW Region was established in 1988. Explains Crain, “Growing up performing with Regional Dance America/Southwest has allowed me to study with some of the world’s finest instructors as a dancer. As a Director, it creates excellent networking for small town regional Companies like LDB and helps to keep us in check by comparison.

Louisiana Delta Ballet Artistic Director, Missy Crain, was instrumental in bringing the 2015 RDASouthwest Regional Dance Festival to this area.

MISSY CRAIN

Dancers from the Twin City Ballet Company perform emerging choreography by Madelyn Clark at adjudication.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Explains Crain, The artistic standards set forth by the region are high, therefore a good motivation in striving for excellence. Each member Company MUST perform at least two times per season in their local towns, and present proof of performance. Each Company is adjudicated once a year by a different dance professional and the assessment for each company goes out to EVERY Company. Our dancers are able to take classes side by side with dancers from other Companies, therefore establishing relationships beyond their local dance peers and instructors.” To get ready for Festival, member ballet companies thoughtfully prepare choreography for adjudication, which is a process of bringing in a juror much like an art show, who views dances and chooses which pieces he or she feels best represent each company and fit them together to create an interesting and thought-provoking Festival, which is comprised of three nights of dance. This year’s distinguished adjudicator, Angela Whithill, is the Founding Artistic Director of Burklyn Ballet Theatre, trained by the National Ballet of Canada and at the Arts Educational Schools in London and performed

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throughout Europe and America during her professional career. In 2012, Whitehill was awarded the Dance Teacher Magazine international award for the development of a major conservatory of dance. (Burklyn Ballet Theatre). She is the recipient of numerous awards including, the Vermont Woman of the Year 1989, NJ Institute of Technology Authors Award 1989 and is listed in Who’s Who Women of the World and Women in Entertainment. She is also the co-author of five books on ballet and the art of its production. So what has Whithill chosen for our local companies to perform? The evening of Thursday, March 26 will open with Louisiana Delta Ballet dancers performing a Nat King Cole/Natalie Cole piece entitled "Hot Coles" followed by the Emerging Choreographers Concert featuring work produced by up and coming choreographers. LDB will also perform “Fate,” a contemporary work by emerging choreographer Kersten Todey from Los Angeles, CA. Twin City Ballet Company will perform “Behind Castle Walls,” choreographed by TCBC Artist in Residence Madelyne Clark. In addition, there will be a special guest performance by professional dancer, Houston Ballet’s Aria

Aleksandra, who is sponsored by Bloch/Mirella. Says Crain, “She is quite stunning and probably worth the ticket just to see her perform!” Friday night will be a mixed repertoire of various Company performances. Regional Dance America/Southwest has 23 pre-professional companies and about half will perform Friday and half on Saturday. Saturday is the Gala Performance. The choreography each night be will be innovative and diverse in style and music, so there will be something for everyone to enjoy. TCBC will dance Leaia Alsup’s intriguing piece set to Philip Glass’ “Continuum” during the Saturday night Gala performance. And LDB will close the Gala with “Dies Irae,” which is quite an honor. The closing piece is a combination of choreography by Alvin Ailey’s Christopher Huggins along with four sections choreographed by Missy Crain. Says Crain, “It is excerpts from Power & Grace, and I chose to adjudicate this due to it being the premier performance for Louisiana Delta Ballet in 2005” when the company was formed. While nightly performances are the public aspect of any RDA-Festival, what’s behind the scenes is even more instrumental

Louisiana Delta Ballet dancers rehearsing.

TAKING CENTER STAGE

in creating the stars of tomorrow. Participants will be able to immerse themselves in classes taught by world-renowned masters of the art in all its forms – from ballet and pointe, to modern, jazz and hip hop. Faculty for the festival includes "the most advanced male ballet dancer in the world" Ethan Steifel, star of the film, Center Stage; internationally recognized choreographer and teacher Thom Clower; former NYCB dancer Jason Fowler; former Alvin Ailey soloist Dianne MaroneyGrigsby; DJ Guthrie, who choreographs for the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders and tours nationally with “Glee Live;” former principal dancer with Joffrey Ballet and ABT, Michael Levine; South African ballet master John Magnus; Valerie Robin, a Varna International Ballet Competition finalist and Joffrey Ballet alum; Freedance creator and dance convention director Jackie Sleight; television and film choreographer and dance convention teacher Christian Vincent; and Maia Wilkins, another former Joffrey Ballet alum. Another treat for festival dancers are the myriad of musicians who will play live music for dance classes. Dance musicians and accompanists for festival dance classes include: Richard Abrahamson, William Catanzaro, Joe Mathia, Steven Mitchell, Michael Orsillo, Natalya Panchenko, and Janeen Vestal. So how do you get tickets for performances of the RDA-SW Festival? Tickets can be purchased at the Monroe Civic Center Box Office. Ticket cost is $25.00 per evening. Your support for RDA-SW Festival 2015 is important to Northeast Louisiana. According to Usrey, “Art and cultural tourism is a major industry in Louisiana. In Northeast Louisiana, the development of our cultural institutions continues to play a major role in the ongoing renaissance of our cities and townships. The Arts Council, in collaboration with Louisiana Delta Ballet and our region’s diverse and vibrant arts partners, works to place the arts on the community agenda, alongside economic development, community planning and other initiatives which shape our quality of life.” Says Crain, “Monroe is a small town with a big heart for the arts, and we are honored to host our prestigious adjudicator, faculty, musicians, directors, dancers and parents for this exciting three day event. It is rare Monroe has the privilege of seeing so many companies, choreographers and dancers all in the same theater. The innovative works will offer something for everyone. ” Sponsors of the RDA-SW Festival include: The City of Monroe, The University of Louisiana at Monroe, Diamond Vault, Northeast Louisiana Arts Council, CenturyLink, Lagniappe Broadcasting and Dr. Dan Holt. For more information about the festival, go to www.rdaswfestival2015.org. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

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Bringing Life to Downtown Monroe Portico Church Revitalizes The Palace Building

OCATED IN THE HEART OF Downtown Monroe on DeSiard Street, The Palace Building is a unique venue perfect for parties, business meetings, corporate events, concerts and wedding ceremonies and receptions. The Palace was originally built in 1924 and operated as a department store for more than 50 years. It was a significant part of life in downtown Monroe, bringing people from all over Northeast Louisiana to shop its six floors for everything from men and women's apparel to wedding gifts; shoes and jewelry to housewares. In September of 2009, The Portico Church bought the historic Palace with plans for the building to serve as a resource to the community and bring life back to

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downtown Monroe. With a desire to join with the others already working to revitalize the area, Portico Church works with the arts community, local businesses and those living downtown. Portico Church gathers for worship and teaching on Sunday nights at 6 p.m. at The Palace, as well as in small groups a few other days during the week in homes throughout Monroe and West Monroe. The Palace is host to a variety of community events, including art shows, familyfriendly events and concerts, in addition to serving as home to The Portico Church's weekly gatherings and other events. The Palace is currently host to Downtown Cinema and is a member of the Downtown Art Alliance, showing exhibits during the

Downtown Art Crawls. The Palace holds up to 200 people for a ceremony, 150 for a stand up cocktail reception and 120 for a sit down reception. There are chairs and tables available to use, as well as audio and visual equipment. There is a small kitchen space as well. In addition to being a unique, historical venue conveniently located, The Palace is affordable! Current rental rates are $500 per day and $250 for a half day. An audiovisual technician is also available to help with sound and lights for $25 per hour. To get more information on The Palace, call 318-884-0599 or visit thepalacemonroe.com. facebook.com/ThePalaceMonroe

Running For A Cause

ReMax Results Realty in Ruston and the Ruston Country Club Will Host a 5K Color Run to Benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation eMax Results Realty in Ruston will partner with the Ruston Country Club to host a 5k Color Run to benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The color run will be held March 21st beginning at 7 p.m. at the golf course of Ruston Country Club. Several years ago, ReMax Results approached the Northeast Louisiana chapter of the Komen Foundation with the idea to host a color run—a particularly festive version of the traditional 5k, in which participants decorate themselves with body paints prior to the race. When it came time to plan this year’s run, event organizers wanted to do something a little different with this year’s color run. “Last year people were sprayed with color paint,” says Komen representative Lacy McCarty. “This year is the glow in the dark

edition. So it’s at night, and we’ll all have glow sticks.” Race participants will have a chance to decorate themselves with glow-inthe-dark paints, glow sticks, glowing bracelets, and other nighttime fun colors. Also, they’ll deck themselves out with special body paints that fluoresce under black lights. McCarty said the route will be decked out with black lights everywhere. Also, the arch runway will feature the Komen Foundation’s signature pink, in addition to many other colors. Other attractions include a Black Light maze, strobe light laser tent and a glowing beach ball pit. All of the festivities, and the money the event raises, goes to support efforts of the Komen Foundation, which is all the more critical in Louisiana, according to McCarty. “Louisiana is among the top three states that

are most affected by breast cancer, and Lincoln Parish has one of the highest mortality rates,” McCarty said. “Komen NELA is extremely grateful for the support it has received from the Ruston community and the people of Lincoln Parish have really come together to make this event successful and a Ruston staple.” Registration is available online at komennela.org, or interested participants can register in person at ReMax Results Realty in Ruston. Packet pickup runs from March 1820, and packets will also be available at the Ruston Country Club for two hours prior to the race.

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Laugh, Letter and Paint Marlen Waters’ exhibition “Laugh, Letter, and Paint” is an exploration of color, spirit, paint and self-discovery using watermedia and calligraphy on paper and canvas. The exhibit is being held at the Old Post Office Museum in Winnsboro and will be up through March 6. An Opening Reception of wine and hors d’oeuvres was recently held to introduce Mrs. Waters’ art to the community. Kay LaFrance Knight, museum director stated, “This is a wonderful exhibit full of life and color!” Former Executive Director of the Dixie Center for the Arts in Ruston, Marlen Waters is a talented professional artist who has studied privately with renowned artists including M. Douglas Walton, Denys Taipale, Thomas Ingmire, Sheila Waters, Mark Van Stone and Julian Waters. Marlen is also a master calligrapher and has studied the arts of calligraphy, papermaking, bookbinding and paper conservation at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia College of Art, Chicago College of Art, Lake Forrest College and St. Johns University. She has studied calligraphy with the Queen of England’s scribe, Donald Jackson, as well as other internationally known calligraphers. She has owned and operated her own graphic art company (Waters and Associates) since 1979. In addition, she has completed many credit hours in the School of Art at Louisiana Tech University, and she has taught watermedia and calligraphy workshops through various venues including the Continuing Education programs at Louisiana Tech University and Grambling State University and Ruston Parks and Recreation. Her work has been selected for inclusion in multiple juried and group exhibitions throughout our region. She is an active member of the North Central Louisiana Arts Council and the River Gallery in West Monroe as well as a roster artist with the Shreveport Regional Arts

Council. Mrs. Waters is a graduate of Louisiana Tech University in Medical Technology and has an MBA from Tech in Marketing. She and her family live in Ruston. The Winnsboro Post Office, built in 1936 at 513 Prairie Street, in Winnsboro’s historic downtown district, has been renovated into a museum, aptly named the Old Post Office Museum. While the building features many new amenities, such as new lighting and a new front door, much of the building remains the same, from the gold post office boxes down to the original wood floors. It now houses not only the museum, but also the offices of the Winnsboro-Franklin Chamber of Commerce, Winnsboro Main Street, Franklin Economic Development Foundation and the Franklin Parish Tourism Commission. Besides a museum and offices, the upstairs portion boasts a conference room, as well as two extra rooms where art classes can be held. The museum has hosted art from internationally known artists such as George Rodrigue of Blue Dog fame and Louisiana folk artist, Clementine Hunter. The museum has exhibited local and regional artists such as Margaret Mays Ellerman, Korey Burns, Caroline Youngblood, Murrell Butler, Loretta Owens, Burg Ransom and Charlie Heck just to name a few. The next exhibit during the well-known Catfish Festival will be an exhibit of photography and artifacts from Louisiana’s Poverty Point. The museum is open 9-5 Monday through Friday and admission is free. For more information visit www.oldpostofficemuseum.com. For more information about Marlen Waters and her work, visit www.marlenwaters.com. All Waters’ artworks displayed are for sale. Part of the proceeds will help fund the Old Post Office Museum.

Photos are courtesy of Monica Huff of the Franklin Sun and Darden F. Gladney.

On the BayouScene

1) Leah Waters Smith holding Collin Ruth Smith, Meg Waters Allen 2) Marlen Waters, Leah Waters Smith holding Collin Ruth Smith 3) Kay LaFrance-Knight and Margaret Ellerman 4) Marlen Waters and Kelsey Flecher-Dugard 5) Sunset on the Water 6) Inspire 148 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

Azure Pools and Spas Your Local Pool Professionals

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 Pools 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 Pools 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 Pool and Spas is locally owned and operated and is your one stop shop to get your backyard ready for warmer weather ahead! WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

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The outdoor kitchen’s oversized island features a hibachi grill. Horizontal planks are stained to look like “an elegant Italian cigarette boat.”

OUTDOOR KITCHEN

DESIGNING DETAILS hen one of your best pals happens to be the über talented interior designer Gregory Hudgins, it makes perfect sense to trust him to guide you through a renovation of epic proportions. “It all started with this,” laughs the homeowner as she points to the oval table and sculptural chairs in the couple’s mirror-walled dining room. “This was the purchase that began the whole remodel.” Hudgins paired with Pat McGuire of Pat McGuire Construction to create a retreat that this power couple could call home and share easily with their children and beloved pet labrador, Delilah. The couple was attracted to the stately, rambling ranch with a distinctive pedigree for its possibilities. “We looked at a lot of houses and really like the openness of the den into the kitchen,” says the wife. Bedrooms were already separated from the public areas of the home making entertaining easy, but the flow needed improvement. The inspiration at the heart of the renovations was to create a warm and very calming retreat from their fast-paced lifestyles. Says Hudgins, “The house in its original form was filled with clutter, and the homeowners wanted simplicity and open spaces. My instructions were to create a modern, traditional space and still keep the integrity of the house.” Hudgins knew exactly what to do to whip this home into a modern era. Technological ad-

vances are woven throughout the home and gardens, making this home an 80% Smart Home. In a page previously out of a futuristic movie, the homeowners are able to activate or program an array of automated home electronic devices by using their smartphones or remote controls. Arming the home’s security system, controlling HVAC systems, switching appliances on or off, controlling lighting, programming a home theater or entertainment system, lighting the outdoor fire pit, or even filling a jetted tub and setting the pools water features in motion is done with the touch of a button. Technology innovations were carried out by Home and Office Technology Solutions, LLC. The back gardens were a blank slate and begged for a landscape plan that would get this family outdoors and enjoying all of Louisiana’s seasons, and Tony Tradewell, an Alexandria-based landscape architect, was just the man to do incorporate the home-

Photography by Martin G Meyers Article by Maré Brennan Interior design and space planning by Gregory Hudgins Landscape Architecture by Tony Tradewell Contracting by Pat McGuire Construction

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owners’ wishes for a Zen-inspired retreat that was peaceful but not kitschy. Low planters of hand-chiseled Pennsylvania bluestone are filled with towering bamboo. The centerpiece of the design is a serene rectangular pool which is punctuated by four bluestone square steps which create a bridge separating the spa from the main pool. Set on axis is a yin/yang fire and water feature that draws the eye and guests toward the furthest end of the pool. A stone scupper spills water onto a bed of polished river rocks which holds an 18th century rose granite Chinese grinding wheel, which has been converted for new use as a fire pit. Cozy seating by Barlow and Tyrie are accented with plump pillows dressed in Schumacher fabrics in blue and green. Marjorelle blue garden stools were found at Parterre. The extensive outdoor living area is pulled together with bluestone, which has been cut in planks and laid like wood flooring. Mahogany columns rise from Pennsylvania bluestone plinths to support the outdoor living area/poolhouse structure which is also set on axis with the pool. Multiple scuppers along a back wall near the poolhouse can be activated to spill water into a long basin and add soothing water music as the soundtrack. During Louisiana rains, Japanese copper rain chains bring water from the roof down to the ground level grates in an aesthetically pleasing way. A fireplace covered in coppery toned slate tiles rises to the peaked ceiling painted in the restful Sherwin Williams hue “Retreat.” Hudgins found a pair of 18th century bronze, Chinese foo dogs and repurposed them as andirons in the oversized fireplace. Barlow and Tyrie sectional seating and sofas in a metallic weave get extra special treatment with colorful dragon print pillows by Scalamandré edged in a lush brush fringe. An over152 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

sized island is outfitted for outdoor living fun, complete with a hibachi grill surrounded by a countertop of “Fusion” granite. A pair of natural wood containers found in Naples, Florida are filled with exotic greenery and blooms. The back accent wall and the island of the outdoor kitchen is horizontally laid mahogany strips stained to look “like an elegant Italian cigarette boat,” according to Hudgins. The outdoor kitchen within the poolhouse is outfitted to accommodate any kind of gathering. The poolhouse bathroom features pink, rose quartz countertops, a vanity found at LCR with basketweave carved doors and an artful mirror from Arteriors illuminated by a pair of lightsaber sconces. Hudgins thoughtfully planned the entire renovation around the way the homeowners live and entertain, which meant designing an area specifically for large events would call for caterers. Says Hudgins, “We measured all the catering vans in the area and made sure they would have enough turning radius to get in and out easily.” The laundry room and storage area was expanded and a pantry conveniently located by the back door entryway and directly across from the kitchen is filled with the homeowner’s extensive cookbook collection. The “Esmeralda” granite, chosen by the homeowner for the center islands was the taking off point for Hudgins’ design. Honed absolute black granite was used around the counters at the edges of the kitchen. Hudgins employed a Chicago-based cabinet maker to design and build the cabinetry in cherry wood, with several key drawers, under the kitchen sink and on the small island, made from quartered anigre wood from Africa. The Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer are outfitted with cherry wood panels which creatively dis-

The den’s trio of French doors flood the room with natural light.

OPEN-CONCEPT DEN

guise their technology. The smaller island is home to an undersink microwave and plenty of storage designed to hold oversize pots or organize cooking utensils since it is positioned across from the Wolf stainless range. The quartered anigre wood oversized drawers beneath the kitchen sink are U-shaped to allow for plumbing and provide storage for necessities best kept out of sight but within quick reach. Backsplash tiles in iridescent tones that mimic the Esmeralda granite countertops are fired art glass handmade and blown in California. The large island is home to a hidden trash bin, warming drawer and beverage cooler. “This kitchen is loaded with technology and Gregory created such an efficient use of space,” explains the homeowner. Hudgins deftly moves around the space pointing out drawers within drawers, soft closing drawers and doors, a wine cooler, hidden dishwashing drawers and space-saving gadgets within cabinets that up the ante with style and functionality. Floors of porcelain tile with a wood grain finish unify the kitchen and the open concept den. The computer “brains” of this technologically smart house are located within custom built-in cherry cabinetry in the den. A trio of 154 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

mahogany stained French doors open out to the poolside. The walls are warmed by wood panels, while a jute rug anchors the comfortable seating space. A pair of textural tweedupholstered swiveling lounge chairs and a nailhead trimmed extra long sofa in a menswear-inspired shade of grey cozy up to a duo of Lucite and grey leather octagonal coffee tables. The den’s tray ceiling was from a previous renovation done by Julie Rogers, as were the columns that separate the dining, formal living area and foyer. Before the renovation, the dining room was accessed by a swinging door from the kitchen. Hudgins seamlessly opened up the spaces allowing tons of natural light to penetrate deep into the kitchen, especially as it is reflected in a large wall of storage covered in mirrored panels. A Johnathan Adler chandelier is resplendent about a large oval table and chairs by Bernhardt. Hudgins found the Spanish rosewood inlaid marquetry commode with gilt ormolu and topped with rose quartz from Nick McKinney’s collection of antiques. Original wood floors are carried throughout the open dining, living room and foyer spaces and down the central hallway toward the master suite.

The husband hails from a creative and talented family. Large canvasses painted by his mother are placed prominently throughout the public spaces of the home for all to enjoy. His musically-gifted father’s 1951 Concert Steinway is sited in the formal living room. A pair of butter-soft leather chairs on shiny chrome “X” bases provide a conversational area to enjoy a musical interlude or a roaring fire in the fireplace. “Those chairs are like sitting in a baseball mitt,” explains Hudgins. A lengthy hallway progressively leads to the most private areas of the home, past the newly renovated guest bath with its organic tones and spaces inspired by the tropics. Hudgins completely reconfigured the spaces that now contain the husband’s study and dressing room, the wife’s dressing room and the master bed and bathrooms. Large marble tiles in a creamy tone transition from the hallway’s wood flooring to signify crossing over to an even more private zone of the home. Space for the husband’s study was carved from extra square footage from a guest bedroom and an unnecessary hall closet. Walls are painted a soothing Farrow

GUEST BATHROOM

The homeowner’s dad’s 1951 Concert Steinway takes center stage in the formal living room.

FORMAL LIVING ROOM

The homeowners call for luxury and simplicity yielded a zen-like master bedroom.

MASTER BEDROOM

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THE FOYER

and Ball shade “Hague Blue.” Mayo Cabinets was commissioned to create custom built-ins for the room which opens into the husband’s dressing room. The linen upholstered sofa and round coffee tables are from Paul Michael Co. In the master bath, Hudgins used a verdant green marble with a custom edge the designer chose for use on countertops and tub surround. The custom cabinetry is painted Sherwin Williams “Oyster Bay” and on the walls is “Peppercorn.” Top Knobs handles on the cabinet doors and Hudson Valley sconces mounted on vanity mirrors add the jewelry for the room. The walk in shower features a mosaic pebble floor with bands of Walker Zanger mother of pearl glass mosaic tile accents. The wife’s dressing room opens from the master bath and redefines the idea of modern luxury. Once again, Hudgins left no detail undone. The central storage island was measured to be exactly the perfect height for packing luggage for one of the homeowner’s many trips. Shallow drawers within the island are perfect for organizing accessories. Tactile leather embellished pulls are employed on the island, and elongated lucite pulls lead to a special closet which is home to a clothes steamer and a just-the-right-size, beverage fridge well-stocked with delightfully bubbly Veuve Clicquot. Cubbies along the top of the U-shaped closet were designed to fit the homeowner’s luggage and hooks positioned around the cabinetry make it easy to pull outfits together. A lounge chair draped with a soft flokati is positioned near a light-filled window draped in a chic black, white and grey striped Duralee fabric. Underfoot is an Italian wool carpet with a subtle stripe which is carried over into the couple’s master bedroom. The wife’s vanity mirror reflects light from glorious Corbett sconces. Says Hudgins, “The sconces were definitely worth the wait. The day we ordered them, the factory burned to the ground!” Adds the homeowner of her luxe private retreat, “This is where people tend to gravitate when we have guests over.” The simple decadence of a well-appointed hotel room was the vibe the homeowners wanted to recreate in their master bedroom. “Good side tables and a super lot of nothing” was the mandate the wife gave to Hudgins. A Hudson bed by Bernhardt Interiors is upholstered in a luxurious grey wool with a masculine nailhead trim. Dransfield and Ross’ ultra-luxe and livable bedding was sourced at Haven. Glamorous bedside tables are topped with the same green honed marble used in the master bath and illuminated by. Tailored drapery panels with a metallic grey, black and silver trellis print are designed with fabrics by Robert Allen for Fabrikut. Renovation of an existing property is not always clear cut and the outcome is not guaranteed. What is clear throughout the renovation process was that Hudgins and his clients possessed that special collaborative experience that took this project to next level, with immaculate planning and execution of the details that mattered. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MARCH 2015

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16th Annual Krewe of Allegro Mardi Gras Ball BY MARLEN WATERS

Laissez les bon temps rouler! And that is just what a sell-out crowd of 450 in Ruston did to celebrate Mardi Gras and support the local arts organizations. This was the second year for the nonprofit arts organizations housed in the Dixie Center for the Arts to work together as the Krewe of Allegro: Dixie Center for the Arts, North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC), Ruston Civic Symphony Society (RCSS), Ruston Community Theatre (RCT) and Troupe Dixie. The Title Sponsor for the ball this year was Bank of Ruston. Other sponsors included: The Biscomb Family, Rogers Furniture and Gifts, Ruston Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau, John Emory, Sr., Elizabeth English, Nancy and Chris Turner, Marsala Beverage, Super 1 Foods, National Jewelry Company, Inc., Soap Opera of Ruston, The Space Station, Mary and Tom Kilpatrick, Lowes’s Home Improvement Store and Walmart. The music for the evening was provided by celebrated local band, the Buddy Terzia Band. Buddy and his 10piece show band provided tunes that spanned several decades. “We like to make sure everyone gets to dance to at least one of their favorites,” said band leader Terzia. “Our band members come from all over North Louisiana and East Texas just to play this gig.” Band members are Roy Waters, Craig Bostick, Doug Crawford, Tony Cortellini, Lisa Lee Phifer and Lisa Spann. The band also provided the traditional Second Line featuring the band’s horn section—Dave Duplissey, John LeBeouf and Al Roberts. Food for the evening was a variety of delectable Louisiana-inspired dishes catered by Linda Peevy. “The food was good; the music is always good. It’s a

great chance for everyone to come out, get dressed up and have fun,” Libby English said. King David Hedgepeth and Queen Melinda Maxwell presided over this year’s Ball. Dukes and Duchesses were: Sandra and Charles Hart for Dixie Center for the Arts; Amanda and Henry McCoy for NCLAC; Shirley and Randall Barron for Ruston Community Theatre; Brittany and Travis Napper for Ruston Civic Symphony Society and Rachel and Josh Shirley for Troupe Dixie. One of the highlights of the event each year is the Silent Auction held by North Central Louisiana Arts Council. According to Slaughter, “This was a great year for our auction, and it is due to the generosity of our donors, the diligence of our committee and the buyers who placed winning bids. The Silent Auction is an important NCLAC fundraiser that goes towards funding NCLAC’s programming, like Summer Art Camps for Kids held in Ruston, and in various locations within Bienville, Claiborne, Jackson and Union Parishes, and the Holiday Arts Tour, a premier local economyboosting event for local artists, craftspersons and business owners. This year, funds raised from the 16th Annual Mardi Gras Ball support the “Sustaining Building Fund” to maintain the historic 1928 Dixie Theatre building and its adjacent properties. The Dixie Center for the Arts has served a pivotal role in the Ruston community over the years by providing a prominent place to promote the arts, and by safeguarding a piece of Ruston’s architectural and cultural history. For more information on any of these organizations, call the Dixie Center for the Arts at 318-255-1450.

On the BayouScene

1) Jason Howell, Kyle and Julie Stephenson, Emily Howell, Kourtney and Cassidy Keim and Jessica Slaughter 2) Mary Ann Woods, Grace Tirado, John Emory Jr. and Mary Elizabeth Halbrook 3) Queen Melinda Maxwell and King David Hedgepeth 4) Amanda and Henry McCoy 5) Jamie Hancock, Missy Farrar, Lance Hancock, Chad Farrar, Dewanna Love, Allison and Tim Rattay 6) Monique Gourd and Meg Waters Allen 7) Haig Kitishian and Richard Anderson 158 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

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SIT

SPRING IN TO THIS SEASON WITH GREAT LOOKS FROM AREA BOUTIQUES. PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRAD ARENDER HAIR AND MAKEUP BY HOLLY & JAMES MCCREADY RAIN THE SALON AND SPA

Ellie looks comfortably chic in this luxurious coral spring cashmere sweater layered over a white Michael Stars tank. Finish the look with these distressed, boyfriend jeans.

PEARL PUMPHREY’S

SPECIAL THANKS TO INSIDE INDIGO FOR USE OF THESE BEAUTIFUL STOOLS AND BLACK LEATHER CHAIR

Ellie looks pretty in pink in this one-piece romper from Beau Monde in Ruston. Accessorize with these charming gold slipon sandals, layered Bourbon & Bowties bracelets and statement necklace.

BEAU MONDE

Looking for a balance of casual and career? We adore the matching white crinkle knit pant and top set with striped sleeveless shirt layered on top. Add a silver cuff for a modern touch to this Spring ensemble.

MODDY BLUES BOUTIQUE

Ellie is haute in this two-piece outfit from Caraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boutique in West Monroe. This uber cute cropped top and high-waisted short features a fringed hem. Pair it with a crotcheted vest with fringe, layered bracelets, and a complementary necklace. Finish the look with these lasercut perforated booties.

CARAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BOUTIQUE

This Spring look for big prints to make a big debut. This printed jogger pant is paired with a matching tank. Add a long tassel necklace and houndtooth cuff for a fashionable fix. Finish the look with a white, cross-body purse and precious strappy flats.

PELICAN DISTRICT

Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Ball Long live King Janus XXXII and Queen Janus XXXII! Michah Goins and Tieise Ardito were presented as the 32nd King and Queen by the Krewe of Janus at the annual Grand Ball, held Jan. 6 at the West Monroe Convention Center. The Grand Ball is the official kickoff of the Mardi Gras season in the Twin Cities. Members of the Krewe of Janus mingled with patrons and dined on fine cuisine provided by some of the area's best restaurants and caterers. The party was sponsored by the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau, Scott Powerline, JPS Equipment Rental and Marsala Beverage, just to name a few. The real celebration kicked off after the presentation of the King's and Queen's courts, the individuals who assist King and Queen Janus with official duties throughout the year. This year's dukes were Michael Brown, Andy Harbor and Peevy Harvey. Duchesses serving Queen Janus XXXII are Denise Duplechin, Kelli Harvey and Lucy Holtzclaw.

On the BayouScene

1 Johnny Williams and Queen Tiese Ardito 2 Kevin Caston, Anthony Perkins and Jiles Davis 3 Queen Tiese Ardito, Daniel Ardito and King Micah Goins 4 Louise Hakim, Steve and Suzanne Courteau 5 Joey Trappey and Matthew Garcia 6 Deidra and Jeremy Adair 7 Spence and Priscilla Turner, Allie and Luke Lary, Jerilyn and Josh Blackman, Abby Abraham and Joey Elawadi 8 Ashley Cochran, Jodi Creech, Sarah Inman and Alicia Norman 9 Lacy McCarthy, Kyle Simpson and Shelley Owen 10 Sarah, Daniel, Lizzie Jane and William Raymond 11 Teenie and Mike McFarlin 12 JeďŹ&#x20AC; and Mandy Freeman 13 Mignon Spearman and Michael Brown 14 JeďŹ&#x20AC; and Evelyn Johnson 15 Don and Anita O'Toole 16 Leo and Cathy Miller 17 Barbara Arrington and Dianne Yarbrough 18 Will and Lauren Erwin

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Mickel Plastic Surgery Continued from page 97

width, the pliability of her skin, the amount of breast tissue she starts out with and where she buys her bra! So choosing the appropriate implant size is a bit more complicated than simply looking at pictures on the Internet and picking a number. It requires thoughtful discussion and assessment of many variables. I try to listen carefully and provide guidance and advice on implant size so the patient can be realistic about the surgical result. In the end, I rely mostly on the patient’s measurements and my clinical judgment. It pays off. In over twenty-five years of breast implant surgery, re-operation simply to change implant size has occurred in only 1-2% of my patients. Overall, complications from breast augmentation are few. In my experience, the infection rate and the risk of a hematoma (blood collection) around the implant are both less than 1%. The risk of a scar tissue capsule around the implant or of implant rupture is around 5%. Most patients can return to work within a week, and can return to full unrestricted activity in three weeks. If you have been considering breast augmentation, call Mickel Plastic Surgery at 388-2050 for an initial evaluation and a thorough discussion of the procedure, the recovery and the risks. I also encourage you to visit www.mickelplasticsurgery.com and browse the before and after gallery. Then decide for yourself. Just one hour of surgery can have a positive impact for years to come.

Meredith’s Musings Continued from page 42

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There’s a closeness; a warm sensation comes over me when I have those seldom moments of recognition of my surroundings, the couch Mom and I contemplated for weeks, Mamaw’s Friendly Village plates, each with a different scene and color, the lime green chair covering Mom and I actually agreed on in the fabric store, the hot tea served from the red toile teapot I bought her for Mother’s Day, Anabeth’s art on the refrigerator, Dad’s forty year old grill he won’t part with, Mom’s overflowing ferns right outside the windows that are always slightly lifted for fresh air and so Henry, the oversized miniature cat, can torment the hummingbirds with his death stare and snarl. It’s home. It’s our home. It’s our place. It’s our permanent reservation. It evolves with us and is a reflection of us. And what a lucky girl I am to have a mother who promotes, uplifts and sustains the true meaning of family.

Rayville First United Methodist Church

Join Rev. Darryl A. Tate for The Parables of Lent

HE BIBLE TELLS US, “HE SPOKE TO THEM IN PARABLES.” In these Lenten services, these very parables of our Lord speak to us of core components of this sacred season, as we reflect on his suffering, death and resurrection for us. Join Rev. Darryl A. Tate as he walks us through The Parables of Lent March 1 – April 5th. From his message on Receiving the Treasure to Receiving the Eternal Life, you will be uplifted by these messages of Easter and the celebration of our Lord’s resurrection from the dead. The Rayville United Methodist Church will also host three Lenten lunches on March 11, March 18 and March 25. Special guests will include Rev. John G. Hankins, Pastor of First United Methodist Church of Winnsboro on March 11, Dr. Eddie Wren, Pastor of First Baptist Church of Rayville on March 18 and the gospel singing group, 4byGrace, on March 25. Join us for lunch at the Family Life Center at noon each Wednesday during the month of March for these Lenten lunch talks. Along with our guest speakers, The Rayville United Methodist Church will also host special services for Holy Week which will in-

clude music performances by the Adult Choir. On March 29th, the RUMC will celebrate Palm Sunday at 10:30 a.m. with a pot-luck lunch following service, the choir will be performing, “Precious Lord, Take My Hand.” On April 2nd at 6:00 p.m., the church will welcome guests to attend Maundy Thursday services, which will be a Tenebrae or Service of Shadows followed by Holy Communion. The choir will be performing three selections: “Once Upon a Tree,” “Of Tears and Sorrows,” and “Bread and Wine of Life with As the Deer.” The Easter services will come to a close in celebration on April 5th with services commencing at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and these songs by the choir: “Fanfare and Alleluia for Easter,” and “Alleluia! Christ is Risen.” There is nothing like being part of a community…especially God’s community. The Rayville United Methodist Church invites you to celebrate the Grace of God throughout the Lenten/Easter season and beyond. For more information, visit our webpage at www.rayvilleumc.org or call our church office at 318.728.4853. The Rayville United Methodist Church is located at 905 Louisa Street in Rayville, LA.

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BAYOUPROFILE

CLIFTON J. DODGE AND COLORS he Ralph Waldo Emerson quote, "Life is a journey, not a destination," is the best way to describe Clifton Dodge and his signature watercraft, COLORS. For the travels they’ve logged thus far, they have definitely etched their journey in the annals of Louisiana history. Having traveled so many bodies of water and accumulating signatures, friendships and most of all memories along the way, Clifton and COLORS embody the spirit of Louisiana. "It was the people along the way," stated Clifton when asked what emotions come back to him while aboard COLORS and traveling the waterways. "They came out to say hello, to see us making our journey, give us a smile and autograph COLORS." As I sat with Clifton and spoke of the adventures, you could almost hear the wind blowing gently, the water rippling past the bow, feel the warmth of the sun or even the rain on every word as he described each experience with crispness and beauty of the outdoors. The journey began with a grandson asking Clifton what his favorite memory from childhood was. Clifton stated, "My favorite memory

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or thing I did was with my grandfather building a pirogue on the banks of the Red River in Avoyelles Parish." His grandson then asked, "Why can't we build one?" "I don't see why not," Clifton then replied. Just like the changing of the wind, a phone call was made and cypress wood was delivered that same day for building what would become COLORS – Louisiana's most famous boat. COLORS is built out of planed 3/4" cypress. Said Clifton, "When the cypress was delivered, my grandson was off-put a little by the weathered looks of the wood." His grandson said, "I expected something a little different." With a smile, Clifton took the wood over to Tallulah to Chip Sullivan to have it planed and prepared. 16' long with 24" bottom and 27" top widths, COLORS has built in seats that dual as ribs, a machete holder, a holder for all of the permanent marker pens used to sign COLORS and a unique feature coined by Clifton as the "rudderlizer." The "rudderlizer is a string controlled, adjustable depth controlled rudder and stabilizer built into one. It can be controlled by hand via the captain if traveling with two persons or by

ARTICLE BY TRENT LIVINGSTON

foot controls if only Clifton is aboard. While on the Mississippi, the "rudderlizer" saved the day when COLORS came upon not one, but two barges, headed different directions but passing each other simultaneously. Clifton said, "I told the captain look, then he said, ‘No, you look.’ It was one of the largest barges I had ever seen with a ten foot wake and 3 to 4 foot waves from the wake. We had lowered the "rudderlizer" all the way once we were in the big rivers and sure enough they kept us from capsizing in the waves of that huge barge. As we rode up one wave, the next one came and we were riding both at the same time before eventually falling behind and outside of their paths." If you have not had time to read Colors: Louisiana's Most Famous State Boat, you can pick up a copy at the historic Rhymes Memorial Library in Rayville or online at www.kidswannahelp.com where 100% of the books proceeds go to those organizations. You can also find the book for free at kindle.com. Congratulations to Clifton J. Dodge and COLORS for representing what the true spirit of Louisiana means.

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P. Allen Smith

Spring is in the Air Tips for Decorating with Spring Blooms PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF: MARK FONVILLE AND KELLY QUINN

pring is my favorite time of year. I love There are over 300,000 daffodils planted at Moss the sense of renewal Mountain Farm. that comes after months of dormancy. Bright colors just seem to start popping up—from the green grass to clear blue skies. It’s no secret I have an affinity for daffodils; their trumpet shape just seems to announce the arrival of a new season. In fact, we have more than with your guests. Give your guests a special 300,000 of these beautiful bulbs planted at the favor to remind them of the day, like a small Garden Home Retreat for a sea of color that terra-cotta pot filled with cut stems from your ranges from cream to a deep, bright sunshine garden. You may also consider including a recipe from the day’s menu. For an extra yellow. special touch, stamp each guest’s first initial on the pot. Spring Decorating The sap from daffodils has the reputation Daffodils are a great cut flower for of a flower killer, but with proper care they can decorating. These bulbs lend a festive, yet be used in a mixed flower arrangement. casual feel to a spring tablescape. One of my Arrange flowers, leaving out the daffodils. favorite ways to set the mood of a luncheon is Soak cut daffodil stems in a mixture of water to place a posy of daffodils in simple vases and floral food for about six hours. Remove the along the length of the table. Keep the stems stems from the solution and add to the other short so guests can easily see each other across flowers. the table and not strain trying to talk over or around the flowers. The concept of the garden home is Indoor Bulb Garden How-to Bring a breath of spring indoors with this simple—bring the outdoors inside and let the indoors extend to outside. I enjoy simple bulb garden. Many garden centers and demonstrating this concept when I decorate for even grocery stores have potted bulbs available guests. A great way to bring the outdoors for sale in spring. inside is to create a chandelier of daffodils. I use a moss lined hanging basket and fill it with Materials small jars of cut stems from the field. I then (4) 6-inch pots of flowering bulbs such as round out the chandelier with grape vine and daffodils Shallow decorative container (wide and deep other natural materials. enough to accommodate the pots) When I open my home for entertaining, Sheet moss it’s about more than sharing a delicious meal with family and friends; I like to share what Line the bottom of the decorative we’ve grown at the Garden Home Retreat. If you plant numerous bulbs, share the bounty container with plastic to prevent water damage 172 MARCH 2015 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

Pots of forced daffodils are available at garden centers and grocery stores.

The Daffodil House at Moss Mountain Farm.

on tables. Arrange the pots of flowers in the decorative container. Conceal the tops of the pots with sheet moss. Keep the arrangement in a sunny location until the flowers open, at which point you can place it in any room in your house. Once the flowers fade you can plant daffodils and hyacinths outdoors. Tulips aren’t reliably perennial in the South, so those bulbs you can toss in the compost pile.

Care After Blooming

As the weather warms and spring starts to give way to summer, you want to make sure to take care of the flowers, so they’ll make a healthy return next year. Be sure to deadhead as the flowers start to fade. Leave the remaining foliage for a minimum of six weeks and apply a low-nitrogen, high-potash fertilizer so the bulbs can be recharged to bloom again the following year.

Daffodil Festivals

If a few blooms in your garden doesn’t satisfy your daffodil desire, there are many festivals around the state swimming in a sea of yellow trumpets.

• H. Nelton Adams Memorial Field – February 27 through March 1; four acres of daffodils blooming in memory of Henry Nelton Adams, who started the field. The planting is open to the public one weekend each year. • Camden Daffodil Festival—March 6 - 7; this is one of the earliest daffodil festivals in the country. The festival committee invites you to see millions of daffodils spread across many acres. www.camdendaffodilfestival.com • Jonquil Jubilee Garden Tour – March 7; enjoy a self-guided tour of historic homes and gardens in Louisiana’s daffodil capital, Gibsland. This year’s event includes Sally’s Field, which has over 6,000 daffodils in bloom.

Left: Bouquets of daffodils bring a breath of spring to a table. Here the table is set with brown place mats and a brown gingham runner. The daffodil filled chandelier adds sunshine to the space. Above: A daffodil at each place setting is a sweet detail.

Fall Planting

Plant daffodil bulbs in the autumn after the ground starts to cool. These flowers prefer full sun, but a little afternoon shade is good for varieties that bloom in shades of orange or red to keep the color vibrant. Bulbs will tolerate most soils, but they prefer well-drained soils. Plant early-, mid-, and late-blooming varieties to extend the blooming season and keep the color popping. If you struggle with pests in the garden including deer, rabbits or squirrels, plant bulbs in those trouble spots. Rodents find these bulbs unappetizing and don’t like the taste. Daffodils will produce more bulbs over time. Lift and divide when clumps become large, and the flowering grows sparse. The best time to divide and move bulbs is when foliage has withered. Lift bulbs with a digging fork or spade, then replant immediately at the same depth and water well.

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.

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30th Annual Northeast LA Arts Council Awards The stars aligned for a perfect night, congratulating arts organizations nominees for volunteer, artist and business supporter of the year, as well as a new category honoring young, emerging artists newly making their mark on the arts scene in Northeast Louisiana. Arts enthusiasts gathered at the Vantage Ballroom in downtown Monroe for the awards presentation and were treated to exuberant musical performances by Dr. Corey Trahan and a quartet of his NSU Vocal Performance students, ULM School of Visual and Performing Arts students, as well as a command performance of Les Miserable’s “One Day More” led by standout vocalist Russ Givens. Accompanying the artists was virtuoso pianist Julian Jones. A hilarious Corey Trahan, with the impeccable timing of a stand-up comic, emceed the event and kept the audience in stitches, recounting anecdotes about Arts Council CEO Tommy Usrey. The star-studded event was cochaired by long-time Arts Council volunteers Cathy Myrick, Leigh Ann Goff and Rhonda Neal. Stained glass artist Bruce Fleming created the Artist and Emerging Artist sculptural trophies. Audie Maxey was responsible for creating the Volunteer of the Year carved wooden bowl. The BART Award trophy was hand thrown pottery by Dr. Gary Ratcliff of ULM. Helping to present the awards, which were juried by Arts Councils south of Alexandria, were Regina Wood, chair of the Arts Council Board of Directors; Patti Nelson, who serves on the State Arts Council; and Michael Echols, Chairman of the State Arts Council. The BART Award, which was established in 1985, was presented to Kiper Hardware of Winnsboro. Also nominated were previous winner CenturyLink and Music City Studios. The Edmund Williamson Artist of the Year was awarded to Dr. Doerle Long of ULM’s School of Visual and Performing Arts. Other nominees included Shawnee Chason, Jenny Ellerbe, Chris Kidd, Donna McGee and Brenda Rowan. The event-goers witnessed a special treat when volunteer and fundraiser extraordinaire Margaret Lauve was awarded the Mary Lee Milam Service Award by Usrey for developing Blend of the Bayou and being instrumental in

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its continued success for over 19 years. The largest category of the night went to the volunteers who give so much of their time and talents to their nominating arts organization. George Prince, last year’s winner, presented Kim Leija with the 2015 award. Also nominated were Mark Allen Dooley and Lisa Patterson, Mike Gibbens, Charles Jackson, Anu Lal, Kathy Lenard, Sherry Randall and Breanna Young. One of the night’s most exciting moments came with the announcement of the Emerging Artist Award. Luke Matherne was presented the stained glass sculpture and a $500 cash award when he became the inaugural recipient of the award. Other nominees included Sarah Cady, Daniel Addison, McKenna Rae Giovingo, William Holly and Victoria Smith.

On the BayouScene

1 Stefanie, Sarah and Blaine Cady 2 Nancy Miller, Patricia Cameron and Sarah Heatherly 3 Kline Crow, Anne Patten, Al Peterson and Evelyn Scott Johnson 4 Cherie and Mark Anyan, Gayle and Scott Frick 5 Lamar Mullican, Linda and Joe Ford, Judge Milton Moore 6 Arts Council President and CEO Tommy Usrey and Bobette Prince 7 Arts Award Chairpeople Cathy Myrick, Leigh Ann Goﬀ and Rhonda Neal 8 Regina Lynch Wood, Michael and Christie Echols 9 Sylvia Masur, 2015 Emerging Artist of the Year Luke Matherne and Phyllis Gordon 10 Vada and Eugene Montgomery, Anne Patten, Arabella Moore 11 Wayne Gentry and Jeanine Balance Patton 12 Brad Arender and Kelsea McCrary 13 Dee and Mike Gibbens 14 Luke Matherne, Alisha Munds, Dr. Corey Trahan, Alexia Mullally and Chase Miller 15 McKenna Rae Giovingo and Julian Jones 16 Chris Edwards and 2015 Volunteer of the Year Kim Leija

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

Through-6/14/2015 51st Annual Juried Competition The Masur Museum of Art’s Annual Juried Competition showcases contemporary artists throughout the United States of America working in any medium. Venue: Masur Museum Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org March 1 Shrek the Musical Time: 3:00 p.m. Explore the world of fairy tales in a way that you’ve never quite heard them before. Based on the 1998 DreamWorks feature ﬁlm, Shrek, the Musical, took Broadway by storm in 2008, and now it blasts onto the stage at Strauss Youth Academy for the Arts. With over 60 performers (ages 8-18) from North Louisiana, you will be blown away with this over-the-top, fully staged production. Don’t miss your opportunity to hang with Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, Lord Farquaad, and Gingy today. Visit www.syaaonline.com to reserve your tickets or call our box oﬃce at (318) 812-7922. Venue: Strauss Youth Academy for the Arts Admission Cost: Adult $12; Student $8 Phone 318-812-7922 Web: www.straussyouthacademyforthearts.com March 5 Warhawk Basketball: ULM v. Georgia State Time: Women's Game- 5:15 p.m.; Men's Game- 7:00 p.m. Show your school pride and come to the ULM Fant-Ewing Coliseum to watch your Warhawks play against the Panthers. Venue: ULM Fant-Ewing Coliseum

Admission Cost: Ticket prices vary; Students get in free with I.D. Phone: 318- 342-1000 Web: www.ulmwarhawks.com March 6 Night of the Cakes Time: 6:30 p.m. Quota International of West Monroe presents Night of the Cakes featuring Live and Silent Auctions and Dinner. Entertainment will be provided by Strauss Youth Academy for the Arts performing music from the Silver Screen along with the WMHS Rebel Raiders. Venue: West Monroe Convention Center Admission Cost: $50 per person Phone: 318-381-1019 Web: www.westmonroe.com/departments/convention-center Full Moon Walk at Black Bayou NWR Time: 6:30 p.m. Come and join the ranger for a guided night walk at Black Bayou Lake. Normally the refuge closes at dusk so this is a chance to see it at a diﬀerent time. Venue: Black Bayou Lake NWR Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-387-1114 Web: www.fws.gov/northlouisiana/black bayoulake March 6-8 Barak Shrine Circus Time: Friday-7:30 p.m.; Saturday10:00 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday-2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Bring the kids out to see the lions, the elephants, the acrobats and silly clowns, the whole works! And don’t forget to get your Cracker Jacks at intermission. Money raised assists with the

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Shriner’s activities. Venue: Monroe Civic Center Admission Cost: Ticket Prices Vary Phone: 318-329-2225 Web: www.ci.monroe.la.us/monroe-civic-center.php March 7 Warhawk Basketball: ULM v. Texas State Time: Women's Game- 2:00 p.m.; Men's Game- 4:00 p.m. Show your school pride and come to the ULM Fant-Ewing Coliseum to watch your Warhawks play against the Bobcats. Venue: ULM Fant-Ewing Coliseum Admission Cost: Ticket prices vary; Students get in free with I.D. Phone: 318- 342-1000 Web: www.ulmwarhawks.com March 13-15 Junior League of Monroe Spring Market Time: Friday 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.; Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Spring is on its way and with it comes the Junior League of Monroe's Spring Market, sponsored by Community Trust Bank. The 17th Annual Spring Market opens with the classic event, "Shop 'Til You Drop. That evening, Spring Market's signature event, "Girls Just Want to Have Fun!" includes catering, entertainment, & door. No strollers please. Venue: Monroe Civic Center Admission Cost: Ticket prices vary Phone: 318-329-2225 Web: www.jlmonroe.org/springmarket March 13 6th Annual Oﬀ the Wall Fundraiser hosted by the Masur Museum

Time: 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. The Twin City Art Foundation hosts the 6th annual Off the Wall fundraiser for the Masur Museum of Art. This fabulous event features a silent auction of wonderful art by local, national and sometimes international artists! The evening will also include great live music and the always popular Bon Voyage Trip Raffle. Proceeds from the fundraiser support exhibitions and educational programs at the Masur Museum of Art. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost: $50 per person Phone: (318) 329-2237 March 14 Le Bonheur Time: 7:00 p.m. The Monroe Symphony Orchestra welcomes spring with Bach, Haydn and Mozart. Virtuosic cellist, Cicely Parnas, will perform Haydn’s Cello concerto in C Major. Venue: West Monroe High School Auditorium Admission Cost: $20 per adult; $5 per student Phone: 318-323-3771 Web: www.monroesymphonyorchestra.com/seasonconcerts.ht ml 3rd Annual St. Paddy's Bicycle Parade and Festival Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. You and your pets put on some St. Paddy's costumes and decorate your bikes, trikes, wagons, scooters and pets for a parade around the field in Kiroli Park. The parade is at 11:30 a.m. and will be followed by a contest with awarding of prizes for “most festive” kid’s, adult’s and pet’s costumes. Free activities include face painting, inflatable jumpers and temporary tattoos. Live Irish music by

Emerald Accent. Free green lemonade and popcorn will be served. Food vendors on site with more substantial fare available for purchase. First 50 kids to register for the parade will receive a free tshirt. Free entry to park between 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Venue: Kiroli Park Admission Cost:mFree Phone: 318-325-1961 Web: www.westmonroe.com/departments/parks/kiroli.php Landry Vineyards presents Nathan Williams and Zydeco Cha Chas Time: 3:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Landry Vineyards winery outdoor concert featuring Nathan Williams and Zydeco Cha Chas. A mix of Classic Zydeco and Cajun music will have you, family and friends dancing all night. Make sure you pack your lawn chair, blanket and picnic dinner and enjoy the outdoor show. Venue: Landry Vineyards Admission Cost: Per Person: $5-$8; Children 12 & under: Free Phone: 318-557-9051 Web: www.landryvineyards.com March 20 Shindig 2015 Time: 7:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. Kick up your heels at the Shindig 2015! Silent and Live Auction, featuring Easy Eddie and the Partyrockers. Event beneďŹ tting Ouachita Council On Aging. Venue: MBH Farm Admission Cost: $60 per person Phone: 318-387-0535 Web: www.ouachitacoa.com Black Bayou Frogs Program and Night Walk Time: 7:00 p.m. Come and learn about the frogs of Black Bayou Lake, we'll start with an indoor program and then go for a walk and listen for frogs. Venue: Black Bayou Lake NWR Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-387-1114 Web: www.fws.gov/northlouisiana/black bayoulake

March 21 Walk With the Wildlife Time: 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Celebrate National Wildlife Week with a variety of family friendly activities. Venue: Black Bayou Lake NWR Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-387-1114 Web: www.fws.gov/northlouisiana/black bayoulake March 28 Landry Vineyards presents: Hands On! Time: 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Landry Vineyards winery outdoor concert featuring Hands On! A mix of Classic Rock, Country, Blues, Soul, and R&B music will have you, family and friends dancing all night. Make sure you pack your lawn chair, blanket and picnic dinner and enjoy the outdoor show. Venue: Landry Vineyards Admission Cost: Per Person: $5-$8; Children 12 and under: Free Phone: 318-557-9051 Web: www.landryvineyards.com March 31 Lyceum Series at ULM featuring George Takei Time: 7:00 p.m. Mr. George Takei, Sulu of Star Trek and social media guru, will speak at ULM in Brown Auditorium on March 31 at 7 p.m. One of the topics covered will be his time growing up in a Japanese internment camp less than 100 miles from Monroe. Venue: ULM Brown Auditorium Admission Cost: General Public$25 Phone: 318-342-1568 Web: http://ulm.edu/lyceum/tickets.html Thank you to our calendar sponsor:

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