SB Women in Business 2022

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� COTILLION COURT � WEDDINGS � NEW COLUMN: DR. LINDSEY PENNINGTON

edding W the

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Mary&Alphonso

#WinningWithWilliams January 22, 2022

Wedding Coordinator: Leslie Coleman Event Planning & Design: Patterson’s Touch of Elegance Pastor: Joey Ketchum and Sharon Ketchum Singer/Songwriter: Kenny Lattimore Photography: Andy Roberts Photography Videographer: Vintage Prints Photography The Location: Western Hills Baptist Church Venue: Independence Stadium Skybox Catering: Taylor’s Catering & Restaurant Cakes: Natalie Ellison Bride’s Gown: Lovely Bride California Boutique Bride’s Accessories: Tiffany & Company Bride’s Headpiece: Pnina Tornai Bride’s Beautician: Dollhouse Beauty Salon & Boutique (Tasha Williams Simmons) Bride’s MUA: Antonette Shivers Bridal Dress Alterations: Ms. Curly Pearson Bridal Jumpsuit Alterations: Louise’s Fashions Groom’s Barber: (3CG Cuts) Carlton Hamilton Groom’s Tuxedo: Joseph Couture Bridesmaid’s Beauticians: Tasha Simmons and Deirdre Wright Bridesmaid’s Dresses: David’s Bridal Bridesmaid’s MUA: Faces by Moe Groomsmen’s Tuxedos: Oxford Street Music: DJ Bedrock (Torrance Bedford), Eddie Spencer, Patrick Dennis of Bright Star Baptist Church Limousine Services: Exclusive Concierge Special thanks to Mary's wedding assistant, LaKesha Henderson.

Wedding story

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PUBLISHER

EDITOR

G. Byron May

I

OWNERS

’ve had many different jobs in my career, and one of my favorites was co-founding an invitation, stationery, and gift retail shop in St. Louis, Missouri. I can identify with how much of your heart and soul and time and energy goes into building your own business. I remember the pride we felt when we were named the “best boutique” in our category in that area’s equivalent to SB Magazine.

A large part of the business was weddings—invitations, bridal party gifts, personalized champagne glasses, napkins, etc., and we knew how vital it was to help a bride enjoy every step to create the perfect wedding.

This February issue touches on both of these aspects, with a special Women in Business section celebrating the hardworking women we know and love, and a Wedding section, with a checklist and tips and a host of vendors ready to help with every aspect of the planning and execution of a wedding. And we are so happy to be able to share the story and photos from the wedding of Mary (Jenkins) and Alphonso Williams.

We are so excited to introduce a new column: L’Amour de Soi (love of self ) by Dr. Lindsey Pennington. Dr. Pennington is the only female double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon with a solo private practice in the State of Louisiana (Shreveport). She focuses on both non-invasive and surgical facial rejuvenation. Her column will be published every other month and we can’t wait to see what advice she has for our readers!

We have (at least) three great happenings coming soon in Shreveport-Bossier: the lighting of the Bakowski Bridge of Lights and the Mardi Gras parades and the Cotillion! Inside you can read about the how the new lighting came to be, and how it is anticipated to impact the vibrancy and economy of the Shreveport-Bossier area. We also present the 2022 Cotillion Court. There are some great Mardi Gras cocktail recipes, plus photos of some recent Krewe celebrations.

Happy Mardi Gras y’all!

G. Byron May Seva May Noble Feldman

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Elizabeth Beard Deal

ASSISTANT EDITOR Hailey Lawson

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Teddy Allen Scott Anderson Adam Bailey Jon Paule Calcote Mindie Kavanaugh, MD Hailey Lawson Seva May Lindsey Pennington, MD

PHOTOGRAPHY Hailey Lawson Debbie Henry

GRAPHIC DESIGN Ryan Watson

SALES TEAM LEADER Keyle Cavalier

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Stephanie Pringle Laura Scott-Speer Katherine Henry-Redding

HOW TO REACH US

318.221.7264 • Fax 318.676.8850 850 Stoner Ave. Shreveport, LA 71101

ADVERTISING 318.221.7264

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right to accept or reject advertisements. Third Class Postage Paid at Shreveport, LA 71101.

Copyright © 2022 SB Magazine, Inc. Volume 23, Issue 2

At Louisiana State University Shreveport, we don’t just educate future female leaders.

We employ them.

In fact, more than 30 of our senior leadership positions are held by women, and 53% of our workforce is female. We consistently recognize the significance of female strength, courage, and achievement. We aim to build the next generation of trailblazers and empower current leaders to innovate and excel beyond their wildest dreams.

The present is female at LSUS.

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LSUS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, sex, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran’s status or any status or organization protected by state or federal law, in SBMAG.NET | FEBRUARY 2022 3 its programs and activities.

FEATURES: 34 Bakowski Bridge of Lights 40 Cotillion Court 72 Health: Colon Cancer Awareness 74 Special Spaces 84 Taste of Mardi Gras

COLUMNS: 5 12 14 32 38 43 68 78 86 88

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Eye on SB SB Beauty Boss SB Business: Sandy & Rizzo SB People: Monro Brown SB Pets Art & Culture Manology SB Good to Know SB Events And Another Thing

SPECIAL SECTIONS: 17 Women in Business 48 Weddings

17 74

48 ON THE COVER Left: Monro Brown Center: Jenny Gauthier and Anna Dickson Right: Mandy Cathey

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12th Night Krewe of Centaur hosted the annual Mardi Gras Twelfth Night at Bossier

EYE ON SB

BY DEBBIE HENRY

Civic Center. This Mardi Gras casual event is the official launch of the Carnival season.

All of the local and surrounding krewes gathered for an evening of fun and merriment to eat, drink and introduce their Royal Courts to each other. 1. Centaur Top Royals with their spouses: King Hal Rogers and wife Patty, Captain Ricky Bridges with wife Dana, and Queen Tracey James with husband Randy James 2. The Ark-La-Tex’s newest Krewe, Oceanus, celebrate their first 12th Night. Duke Jason Ward with his dad, Captain Parker Ward 3. John Herrin with wife, Captain of Captains Tracy Herrin 4. Justinian Royal Court XXVIII 5. Krewe of Akewa XVIII Royals give a toast to the 2022 Mardi Gras Season 1

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Sobek Bal The Krewe of Sobek put on a black-tie affair full of music and merriment at their Grande Bal XVII “Down On Da Bayou,” held at the Shreveport Convention Center.

Captain XVII Johann Cooke as “VooDoo Daddy” and CoCaptain Rachal Virgin as “Mistress of VooDoo” rolled into the bayou along with the fog to begin their tableau. Sobek King XVII Doug Sanders and Queen XVII Janet Armand reigned over the night’s festivities.

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Elders Bal XXIV Safari Fever The Krewe of Elders Grande Bal XXIV at Cross Lake, with Captain Connie Rivet and Co-Captain Patsy McGee as the guides. The Duke and Duchess of Longevity Gary and Jane Hudson brought cameras to capture the wild animals in their natural habitat, while the Duchess of Prosperity Sherrie Vullo was there to study the arachnids. Queen XXIV Dianne Harmon was as beautiful and graceful as the butterflies she saw on her safari adventure.

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Justinian Grand Bal 1. Justinian Captain XXVIII Jimmy Franklin 2. Justinian Queen XXVIII Erin Leigh Waddell Garrett 3. Justinian Duchess Sandra Monroe and Duke Trey Giglio 4. Justinian King XXVIII Larry Pettiette 5. Justinian Princess Chandler Higgins 6. Justinian Prince Tristan Hebert 1

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Atlas Grand Ball XIV Krewe of Atlas Grand Bal XIV

“Holidays” was held at the Shreveport Convention Center. The Tableau production featured “Holidays” as each Royal dressed as a festive day from the calendar. Atlas Captain XIV John Pumilio personified the Carnival Mardi Gras Season as a Jester.

Beautiful and sweet Princess Bella Sims searched for Easter Eggs. Confetti cannons and fireworks shot into the air as Atlas King and Queen conducted their grand march down the runway.

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Centaur Royal Mixer Centaur hosted a Royalty Mixer

the evening before Twelfth Night so that the local krewes could have a nice meal, a few drinks, and mingle before the Mardi Gras madness began. The past Centaur Royals worked the buffet line serving Italian Fare to the attending krewes. Headed up by Centaur Event Chair Tony Prestidge, this Royal Mixer also worked as a walk-through practice before the Twelfth Night activities. Guests were also welcome to peruse The Bead Store.

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Cotillion Announcement

Welcomes

Roopa Muralidhar, MD

INTERNAL MEDICINE Board Certified, American Board of Internal Medicine joining

South Shreveport Internal Medicine

Andrew J. O’Young, MD Erin L. Clements, MD

2508 Bert Kouns Industrial Loop Suite 301, Shreveport, LA 71118

(318) 212-5991

southshreveportinternalmedicine.com

Dr. Muralidhar accepts new patients and most insurance plans.

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The President of the Cotillion Governing Board, Mr. Michael John Hoogland and his wife, Valerie Hoogland held a cocktail party in their home to announce Rex LXXIII. Mark Sealy was chosen to reign as the 73rd King over the Holiday in Dixie Cotillion at the Municipal Auditorium this spring.

A receiving line consisted of the Cotillion Board President and Hosts, The Hooglands, Rex LXXIII Mark Sealy, Cotillion Chairman Eloise Graf, and the parents of the LXXIII Queen, Princess, and Princes. Cotillion 2022 has a fun and whimsical theme “Cotillion LXXIII, The Greatest Show.” This circus theme is near and dear to Cotillion Chairman Eloise Graf’s heart, since she was a promoter for Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus. 1. Cotillion Board President Mr. Michael Hoogland with Cotillion Chairman Eloise Graf and new appointed King, Rex LXXIII Mark Sealy 2. Princesses’ Parents: Martha Ross with Havard and Lara Yerger 3.

Queen’s Parents Patrick and Ginger Lucas 4. Jeremy Knicely with wife Lila Knicely, Cotillion Co-Chairman 5. Rex LXXIII Mark Sealy with wife, Cherie 6.

Mike and Valerie Hoogland host the Rex announcement party

Carter Credit Union’s VIP Happy Hour Carter

Credit Union’s VIP Happy Hour, on November 30th at their Ellerbe Road Bank. Hors d’oeuvres, Open Bar and Door Prizes, Music by the Stilettos and Catering by Savoie’s. Many people attended. It was a huge success.

“My name is Christian Holmes, and I am from Shreveport, Louisiana. I am majoring in Elementary Education. I want to be a teacher to inspire the upcoming generation of young boys. I want them to know that they can do any and everything they put their minds to.”

(2021-2022 Cohort Member)

Dr. Jeremy Alexander and wife Anneka Alexander

Be the Change:

TEACH

Call Me MiSTER® (Mentors Instructing Students Toward Effective Role Models) was founded at Clemson University in 2000 to address the critical shortage of minority male teachers in America’s classrooms. The mission of the program is to increase the pool of available teachers from a broader more diverse background, particularly among the lowest performing elementary schools. Northwestern State University has a rich legacy of teacher preparation and is proud to partner with Clemson University to fulfill this goal.

For more information, please contact: Dr. Michael Snowden snowdenm@nsula.edu or 318-357-4488

Larry Lepinski Carol Schwalke

A musical based upon the Gospel According to St. Matthew Conceived and Originally Directed by JOHN-MICHAEL TEBELAK Music and new lyrics by STEPHEN SCHWARTZ Originally Produced on the New York Stage by EDGAR LANSBURY / STUART DUNCAN/ JOSEPH BERUH

WEEKENDS OF

March 18-27

Emmett Hook Center

550 Common Street • Shreveport, LA

e m m et t h o o kc e nt e r . o r g

(318) 429-6885

Left to right are Jason Weinland, Tyler Shipley and Joel Fair (COO at Carter)

GODSPELL Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

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Your Pride. Our Joy.

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The Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport – St. Mary Medical Center campus is fully equipped to meet and exceed the healthcare needs of women through all stages of life. The newly renovated Women’s Health Center in our Fairfield Medical Office building, along with our OB/GYN Specialists, comprise a strong team of more than 20 OB/GYN providers dedicated to the patients of Northwest Louisiana.

This excellent team of providers offers both outpatient office care and inpatient care for women’s and children’s services. The inpatient hospital is equipped with private labor and delivery suites, labor and delivery operating rooms, a newly renovated women’s services floor, and a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. It is the area’s only hospital with OB/GYNs and anesthesiologists available on-site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Additionally, lactation consultants are available on-site to help new mothers navigate breastfeeding immediately after birth and beyond.

In addition to providing excellent care to women and newborns, we offer the highest quality care for the children in our community. With more than 20 pediatric specialists and subspecialists and multiple new locations, access to primary and specialty care for your whole family is easier than ever.

Ochsner LSU Health – Women’s Health Center 1801 Fairfield Avenue, Suite 106 Shreveport, LA 71101

318-626-0469

Monday – Friday 8AM – 5PM

Ochsner LSU Health – OB/GYN Specialists One St. Mary Place, Suite 160 Shreveport, LA 71101

318-626-2800

Monday – Friday 8AM – 5PM

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SB BEAUTY BOSS

BY JON PAULE CALCOTE

B A L A N C I N G

BODY&STYLE I

t’s not only my personal belief that every body is beautiful, but the mainstream media and society as a whole are taking to that same view point. Different heights, shapes and curves are being showcased and celebrated like never before. It’s always important to wear what makes you feel great, but if you’re looking for styling ideas based on your unique body type, here are some tips to guide you.

It’s always BEST to wear what makes you feel your BEST!

Rectangle Measurements of shoulders, bust, and hips are fairly uniform with this body type. V-Necks and buttondown tops help to create the illusion of more shape up top. For this body type, wide leg pants, flare jeans, a fit and flare skirt or a bell cut dress also help create the illusion of more shape and curve on the bottom. Things to avoid are jumpsuits and monochromatic which can appear visually as one straight line.

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Inverted Triangle This body type is broader up top and narrower at the bottom. Slim fit well tailored pieces up top will help sinch in and streamline the top half. Adding volume to the bottom with wide leg trousers, flare jeans and shirts or dresses that flare will give balance to the silhouette. Things to avoid are skinny jeans, and any top with shoulder pads or embellishments, as they tend to create the illusion of more volume up top.

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Oval Voluminous up top and on bottom, this body type is more of a rounded shape. The goal is to elongate the body while giving the appearance of curves.

Wear tops that cinch in the waistline or wear louder, noticeable staple garments. Things to avoid are garments that add volume overall such as tunics or tent dresses.

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Triangle This body type is typically narrow up top and broader on the bottom. To flatter this body type, wear darker colors on bottom paired with brighter colors on top. Bigger accessories such as necklaces and earrings can help provide balance by adding the illusion of more volume on the upper portion of the torso. Avoid bold prints or patterns on the bottom and dark, structured fitted tops.

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Hourglass This body type typically has hips and shoulders close to the same size, with a defined waistline.

Frequently this body type can wear almost anything as long as the fit and fabric are flattering to the natural curvature of the body.

Things to avoid are garments that are ill fitting and oversized, like tunics or tops that hang off the bust, over embellished tops, or tops with a high neckline as they add too much volume to the top half of the bust.

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SB BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

JENNY GAUTHIER & ANNA DICKSON

SANDY +RIZZO: The Queens of Glitter

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BY ELIZABETH BEARD DEAL

wo local teachers—and now self-trained resin artists—have taken the jewelry scene by storm.

Meet Jenny Gauthier, an art teacher at Southfield School with a background in architecture, art, and design, and Anna Dickson, a Professor of English at Bossier Parish Community College with a background in jewelry sales, art, and what she describes as “a lifetime love of accessories.”

Their jewelry company, Sandy+Rizzo, began with and is best known for the wide-ranging shapes and styles of large, colorful, shiny, dangling earrings—designed and created personally by the two owners with self-selected materials and art resin, mixed in a proprietary design process and hand-poured into specialty jewelry silicone molds. They are always using and testing new ingredients and recipe combinations. They even make their own custom-blended glitter. Anna and Jenny have different art styles, and each poured piece is one-ofa-kind. “It can’t be recreated—it’s art,” says Anna. “We also honor women who have inspired us—daughters, sisters, mothers and friends—by naming styles after them.”

The duo love to create themes for their art pours, inspired by pop culture, film, plays, and even singers. Some of these themes have included the Beatles, Dolly Parton, Wicked, Wizard of Oz, The Greatest Showman, Disney Villains, David Bowie, The Sound of Music, Taylor Swift, the Nutcracker, and the Grinch.

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Anna and Jenny had the support of many friends and family who encouraged them and volunteered to help them get Sandy+Rizzo off the ground. The two also made some important business decisions from the beginning. “We branded early,” says Jenny. Having a professional name, logo, and high-quality marketing materials was important to them. So where did the name come from? A few years ago, Jenny was planning to attend an auction party at school dressed as Sandy from the movie Grease and asked Anna if she would be her Rizzo, to which Anna responded, “That’s the role I was born to play! Of course I will.” They admit the characters fit their personalities—sweet Jenny as Sandy and outgoing Anna as Rizzo—so it seemed the perfect name for their company.

Their slogan: “Less Bitter, More Glitter!”

Anna and Jenny also outsourced what wasn’t directly related to the creative side and production of their products, like hiring a firm to handle the finances and employees to support the business.

Since they began a year and a half ago (during Covid), Sandy+Rizzo has experienced a phenomenal growth in sales. The growth of the business has been an organic process, crossing one milestone at a time. Many friends and family volunteered to help get the business off the ground, and the first big achievement was selling at the Red River Revel. “To me, being local and growing up here, the Revel was always a point of acceptance into the art world,” says Anna. They believe utilizing

various sales channels instead of just one or two—art shows, gift shows, wholesale, retail, social media, and the website— has helped accelerate their brand recognition.

Jenny and Anna have captured the hearts of many followers and customers, affectionately known as the Pink Ladies (also a Grease reference if you don’t know), through Instagram and Facebook, always sharing positive messages along with their jewelry. They go LIVE on Facebook (Mondays at 7:30 pm) to chat with and sell the themed earrings to Pink Ladies of all ages who join in from a multitude of states to view what the owners liken to an ‘evening talk show.’ “It really is an awesome community that we have built, and we are so humbled and grateful that women love our art,” says Anna.

“What we realized early on was that we were only going to be able to pour so many earrings, because as an artist, you can only produce so much art,” according to Anna. This led Jenny and Anna to expand the product line to include acrylic options. “They are still beautiful, still unique, still very sparkly, and something that you haven’t seen before, but we’re able to make more of these because we can use our laser cutter,” says Anna.

Just like with the resin line, only Jenny and Anna select the patterns and hand-draw the designs. “This is our art and this is what’s sought after,” she adds. Seasonal designs are extremely popular, with hard-to-keepin-stock selections from hearts to Mardi Gras and crawfish to Christmas trees.

While the large earrings are wildly popular, a new stud bar featuring designed stud earrings recently introduced has become a surprisingly instant favorite—perfect for young girls (or women battling masks at the workplace!) at a great price point.

Sandy+Rizzo also retails other accessories like bracelets, sunglasses, and headbands to their Pink Ladies. They make a point of purchasing these products from other women-owned brands.

Sandy+Rizzo manufactures and makes all the jewelry, farming nothing out, with help from employees Anna Baker, Kate Wimer, Anne Embry, and Caitlin Lear. “It is very similar to how women used to sit around and quilt. We sit around a big round table and we assemble, so we put together jewelry with our own hands,” says Anna. “We discovered recently that not a lot of people are doing that anymore,” says Jenny. “But we feel like that’s what people really appreciate about it—the art of it.

It’s always new. It’s always unique,” she added. (And once it’s sold out, it’s gone.)

As with many startups, the owners’ respective homes were full of supplies, tools, materials, and workspaces. But they have moved into a leased residential space, fondly called the Pink Lady House, to use as their workshop, a space for designing, testing, creating, assembling, packaging, and shipping their products. “We are excited to have a centrally located place that is kid and pet friendly. This way we and our employees can all take care of work and family together,” says Jenny.

Anna and her husband, Michael, have two daughters, Harper and Annabelle. Jenny and her husband, Wes, have two daughters, Ellie and Kate. You could technically say the daughters are behind the whole story. The girls, best friends, brought their mothers together, who soon became BFFs too.

The business ultimately grew out of this friendship. Anna and Jenny share ideas and responsibilities daily and each one is quick to compliment the strengths of the other.

Jenny and Anna love the fact that they have become role models for their daughters, who see them following a dream and working hard toward that dream every day. “We’re just very proud that they’ve been able to see us build this,” says Jenny.

Right now, you can find Sandy+Rizzo products at sandyrizzo.com, at the Shreveport retail location (The Gilded Oyster shared with Allison Rhymes), and at several local boutiques in the Shreveport-Bossier area. But that’s about to change. Last month, Anna and Jenny decided to try their hand as first-time wholesale vendors at Dallas Market inside the World Trade Center. Somewhat shocked themselves, they sold their jewelry to 22 boutiques across the U.S., seriously expanding their reach!

What do they believe has impacted their success so far? “We’ve always been kind to everybody we’ve encountered including other makers and other resin artists in the indusPhoto: Anna Baker try,” says Jenny. Anna agrees, and adds, “Consistency. We are always focused on keeping the creative design, the quality of the jewelry and our production processes consistent.” Receiving an order this month from a shop on Magazine Street in New Orleans really made the success feel real. “That’s it, we made it! Our Mardi Gras earrings are in New Orleans!”

The old adage says, “people do business with people, not businesses.” You just have to meet Jenny and Anna once to realize how their personalities and business philosophies have, and will undoubtedly continue, to drive their business forward into the future. It appears that the glittery path ahead may be paved with gold...

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re leaders born, or are leaders created? The best leaders most definitely have both - they have good instincts and work hard at what they do. This is especially evident in business. Business is the driving force behind our economy, and small business is unquestionably the backbone of our economy. Great leaders of business find a balance between confidence, commitment, and ambition. These leaders help shape the world we live in. Women are expanding their roles as leaders in business and are making great strides in the world of business, as well as other professions. This year’s Women in Business section spotlights the achievements and passions of some of our top professional women in the Shreveport-Bossier City area. Meet this year’s ambitious group of Women in Business.

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

8445 medical spa

8445 MED SPA YOUR AESTHETIC DESTINATION The love of all things skincare lead to the creation of Shreveport’s hottest destination for all things aesthetic, 8445 Med Spa. “We want to provide state of the art skin care in a chic setting,” says owner, Susanna Cage Van Norman. And while 8445 Med Spa certainly brings high-end glam to the Shreveport spa scene, forming authentic relationships that last and helping clients be their best selves, is at the heart of what Susanna and her team do.

Susanna has a team of aesthetic experts who take a personal approach towards your beauty enhancement needs. “We combine progressive techniques with the best products available in order to create a custom experience for our clients,” said Susanna.

The expertise of team members, Taylor Colvin, a nurse practitioner and lead injector, and lead medical aesthetician, Mari Lou Sharp, offer high-end dermatological treatments in a lush boutique environment. They are passionate about skin care and helping you achieve your ultimate skin goals.

Susanna shares, “We see teenagers struggling with acne, younger women wanting to enhance their natural beauty and clients in their aging prime who are looking to rejuvenate their skin and reclaim their glow. For our new clients, we recommend starting with a facial. This thorough cleaning in our relaxing, two-room spa environment is something anyone can appreciate, and they’ll definitely want to come back for more.”

Our most popular offerings are BOTOX® injections, fillers, facials, lash lifts and microblading – a semi-permanent way to enhance your brows by placing pigment in natural-looking hair

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strokes. Microblading is especially effective for more mature clients looking to fill in sparse patches on their brows. And while many spas offer fillers, you’ve got to go to professionals who know what they are doing to ensure that you get a natural-looking end result.

That’s why our clients come to us.

We are excited to offer laser and skin tightening services. Diolaze XL for hair removal, achieve the smooth and soft skin that you’ve always wanted with the new champion of laser hair removal. Lumecca is the most powerful intense pulsed light to treat pigmented and vascular spots, clients see amazing results. Morpheus8 is fractional skin treatment that stimulates collagen production of the underlying layers of the dermis. By targeting the deeper layers of the skin, tissues of the body can be remodeled to reveal a more radiant youthful appearance.”

Susanna recommends, “Invest in your skin! It’s one of the most important aspects of who we are, and most people spend very little time taking proper care of it. The good news? It’s never too late to start. We are happy to join people wherever they are in their skin care journey and hope to form a lasting relationship as their aesthetic advisor and advocate.”

8445 Line Ave Suite 200, Shreveport, LA • (318) 553-5800 8445medicalspa.com

AUDRIUS M. REED

WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

Audrius is a native of Shreveport, Louisiana. After spending nine years in Baton Rouge to attend school, returning home to Shreveport in 2016 was an easy decision. A two-time alum of the Southern University System, Audrius received her B.S. from Southern University A&M in 2011 and her Juris Doctor from Southern University Law Center in 2015. It was during her time at SULC that her volunteerism with various community organizations and events solidified her passion for assisting the disadvantaged in any way she could.

After her return to Shreveport, Audrius spent time as a legal assistant before finally taking the plunge and sitting for, and passing, the Feb 2018 bar exam ( just seven weeks after giving birth). She later went on to serve as Judicial Law Clerk for the Honorable Erin Leigh Waddell Garrett in the First JDC. Currently, Audrius is a solo practitioner who enjoys volunteering and working in her church community and the Shreveport Bar Association. She is also a Mock Trial Coach at Caddo Magnet High and regularly volunteers with the Shreveport Bar Foundation's Pro Bono Project.

Audrius has always had an interest in how the legal system works. As she grew older and learned more and more about what each part does, she knew she wanted to be an attorney, but she thought her passion would be on the legislative end. It was not until she interned with Family Court that Audrius discovered her passion for family law. While interning with Family Court, the judge she worked for required her to go through each record before court and write down the children’s names, ages, and any information she could find about hobbies or extracurriculars. The task seemed tedious until she started to see herself in the kids listed. When she completed her task, Audrius asked the judge how she would use the list. She explained that she likes to keep the lists to refocus the attention on the children and their best interests. The list was a reminder that the kids were people, not pawns. That stuck with Audrius and forever changed her view of family law, which molded her passion.

Last year Audrius was selected as a member of Southern University System’s 40 under Forty - Cohort Trois, named in SB Magazine’s “Best Of” edition, and received Top Attorney recognition. Audrius is wife to Trenton Reed and a mother of two rambunctious toddlers, Hunter and Harper. Her hobbies include spending time with family and friends, shopping, reading, and traveling.

Family Law Attorney (318) 606-2234 631 Milam Street, Suite 105, Shreveport, LA

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W E A R E S E R I O U S A B O U T YO U R B E A U T Y

avalonhairsalon.net

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WEDDING & EVENTS TEAM

WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

Front Row: Missy Fussell CEO, Jodie Shuff COO, Amy Randall Back Row: Holli Bowman, Amanda Speckman, Rona Rayner, Jim Lee, Morgan Bruce, Katie Dunkleman, Lisa Andress, Amanda Phillips (not pictured)

CFO PROSOLUTIONS CFO PROSOLUTIONS IS GROWING! Two of the top QuickBooks ProAdvisors in the ShreveportBossier City area, Missy Fussell of CFO ProSolutions and Jodie Shuff of SCG Accounting Solutions, are combining their expertise to bring you the most experienced team in the region.

This strategic partnership brings together more than 50 years of expertise in QuickBooks implementation, integration, and business processes. The combined experience and staff further strengthen CFO ProSolutions’ mission to provide each client with personal attention and service in a timely manner. In addition, SCG Accounting Solutions is an Advanced QuickBooks Solution Provider extending CFO ProSolutions’ capabilities to offer preferred pricing on all Intuit QuickBooks products and solutions.

“Our primary goal as trusted advisors is to be available and to provide insightful advice to enable our clients to make informed financial decisions. Our team’s responsiveness to clients is one of the attributes that makes CFO ProSolutions successful,” said Missy.

Over the years, collaboration on special projects developed a natural synergy that made this an easy decision for the two business owners. Jodie affirmed this by saying, “We are really excited about the opportunities this creates. We’ve built an incredible relationship over the years, and it just makes sense.”

CFO ProSolutions specializes in QuickBooks advisory services, bookkeeping, payroll services, and business consulting for small to mid-sized businesses interested in growing their business through sound financial management.

Having trained eyes on your finances can bring considerable peace of mind as well as the confidence needed to make intelligent financial decisions.

405 Ashley Ridge Blvd.

Shreveport, LA 71106 318.629.6266 www.shreveportcfo.com SBMAG.NET

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

CINDER’ELLA IN DISGUISE The best day of the week? Cleaning Day, of course! Nothing makes you happier than coming into a spotless house or business. If you have a cleaning lady, you can quickly agree. If you do not, Hire ME! Organizing, decluttering, basic or deep cleans for residential and commercial, move-in/ out cleans, post-construction sweeps, short-term rental turnover, and last but not least, LAUNDRY are all things that we offer. We have been told repeatedly that it is the little things like using eco-friendly products for those with allergies, offering customizable plans and flexible scheduling, and providing special touches unique to Cinder’Ella in Disguise that keep our clients repeatedly booking. We love what we do, and I am proud that we are known for going above and beyond what other cleaning services may not do. My crew is hands down the best around, and I credit them for helping me get where I am today. Each employee is not only personally trained by me but must also successfully complete a rigorous certification course in both Residential and Commercial Cleaning. My company is licensed, bonded, and insured. We are founding members of the American House Cleaners Association, in which we also hold certifications for Covid 19 Infectious Diseases Cleaning and Professional House Cleaning, as well as Residential and Commercial Cleaning Certifications from NSA. Some of our favorite things to do are investing in our community each month by offering a family in need a FREE clean, donating to local schools and sports organizations, and volunteering. As you can see, we mean serious business when it comes to cleaning. Don’t hesitate to reach out and let my crew take care of you!

(318) 557-8884 Find us on Facebook

Photo by Leslie Whitaker

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

JACQUELINE SCOTT The illustrious Jacqueline Scott is the founder and CEO of Jacqueline Scott and Associates, APLC; Attorney at Law; owner of Exclusive Concierge Limousine Service, and Judge on her reality show Cajun Court TV. Scott meticulously selects cases and relentlessly fights for justice one case at a time. Scott’s firm handles cases involving personal injury, 18-wheeler and commercial truck accidents, oil field injury, with the theme “Make ‘Em Pay.” Scott’s criminal defense theme for clearing records and expungements is called “Scott Free.” The theme for her Cajun Court Reality show is “Do the Right Thing.”

Scott’s peers call her the Bionic Lawyer. One lawyer specifically named her “Jackie of all trades.” Whether it’s fighting for justice, cooking, sewing, tennis, or putting a 1000-piece puzzle together, Scott is always at the top of her game. Scott is a beast of a worker and her Christian faith guides her actions.

Scott is a trailblazer for women and often reminds the guys never to underestimate the power of a woman.

She is adamant about empowering women to know their strength. Scott is a mentor and empowerment speaker at schools, churches, and other organizations.

Moreover, Scott has mentored and consoled children who have lost their parents to violence. She has also donated clothes to Dress for Success and has funded many organizations. Scott has been the benefactor of many community awards in Shreveport. Most recently, Scott was named 2021 Social Circle Lawyer of the year. In addition, Scott made history as the first African American woman from Shreveport to serve on the Louisiana State Ethics board. Scott also served on the LSU/Ochsner Board and is the 1st female Bond Lawyer in Shreveport.

Scott’s advice to young business owners is to start each day with a prayer and try to be a blessing. Seek and expand your knowledge in your work industry with profound commitment. Never forget your ultimate purpose because nothing else really matters. Maintain good mental health and pace yourself.

Don’t cheat or steal; honesty is the best policy. Always be positive. Respect those who have paved the way, especially senior influences. Be grateful and thankful for each experience, whether you think it is good or bad. Try to take nothing or anyone for granted. Show your appreciation by giving back to your community and to the people who love you. Save your money for “rainy days.” Count your blessings to the Glory of God, and you will have the success that surpasses understanding. Jackie is blessed to have a daughter Lawryn Scott, a 2021 graduate of LSU. Offices in Shreveport/Bossier Phone: 318-230-7016 jacquelinescottlaw.com

SB MAGAZINE TOP ATTORNEYS 2003 TO PRESENT SBMAG.NET

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

JOLIE BLONDE GIFTS I always dreamed of owning a gift shop. It all started when we were opening our 2nd location for Novus Glass in the Wallace Lake area. I realized this would be the perfect location for a gift shop because there were no stores on that side of town. Finally, my dream became a reality when we opened Jolie Blonde in 2019.

Since we opened our doors, I have learned that things are never the same day to day— that’s what makes it so much fun! Building relationships with our customers and developing new friendships every day by helping them find the perfect gift or helping them decorate gives me great joy. At Jolie Blonde, you can find the perfect gift for anyone including children of all ages and men.

Whether you’re a jewelry lover, gift-giver, or décor enthusiast, Jolie Blonde is the place for you. We have everything you will need for that special someone. Our shop has all the seasonal décor lover’s essential needs. Whatever holiday you’re shopping for, at Jolie Blonde, you will find unique Louisiana gifts that you will love and treasure!

9210 Wallace Lake Rd 318.773.1055 jolieblondegifts.com

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DONESA WALKER, M. ED.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

Fifteen years ago, a dream started in the mind of an educator. The dream was that Louisiana, her newly adopted state, didn't have to rank at the bottom in literacy. That dream to make a difference in lives of all ages by training brains to read became a reality in 2008! Donesa Walker dreamed big. She sought out a partnership with the premier brain training business in the world and brought that one-to-one individualized brain training for all ages to Shreveport, Louisiana. Over 1500 brains have been trained locally through her efforts, adding to the 101,000 and counting nationally! Donesa has strived to make a difference in the lives of people from ages 4 to 104! Her favorite stories include dads learning to read to their children for the very first time, grandmothers conquering memory issues that have frustrated them for years, and children who conquered dyslexia and ADHD setbacks through brain training.

Donesa has won numerous awards nationally every year, from being a leading center in customer service to a top center in sales. Locally, she has been saluted by LocalsLoveUs, SB Magazine, HulaFrog, and the local Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce for being a Top Innovator and Best Small Business.

In addition, she has been recognized by Marquis Who's Who and many other national-level firms who sing out her praises. Donesa, despite all these awards, is still a genuine person that is extremely giving to our local community by sponsoring many local charities and schools. If you've ever heard about the brain place that makes a difference, you have heard of LearningRx Shreveport! Donesa says she truly believes that it is all about her team. She is nominated as one of the best employers ever when you speak to them. Each team member at LearningRx believes that their boss is truly the one who makes a difference. Making a difference in brains is the passion of each member of this amazing team with Donesa Walker as their leader. It is an honor to recognize this special lady for all that she does in our community to change lives one brain at a time.

LearningRx of Shreveport Master Reading/Dyslexia Specialist Board Certified Cognitive Specialist #BCCS206959 8856 Youree Dr., Ste. D, Shreveport 318.797.8523 learningrx.com/ shreveport SBMAG.NET

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

LORI C. GRAHAM ATTORNEY AT LAW, LLC Attorney Lori C. Graham captures the respect of many as proven by her fight for clients who have received compensation for their injuries and justice in the courtroom. Her areas of practice include personal injury, family, criminal, wills and successions.

She is a passionate and successful attorney with over 20 years of experience as a lawyer. Lori C. Graham was born and raised in Homer, Louisiana, educated at Louisiana Tech University, and received her Juris Doctorate (J.D.) degree from Southern University Law Center in 2000. After working as a law clerk at Caddo District Court and as an assistant district attorney for Caddo Parish, she founded her law practice in 2002. Lori C. Graham has served as Ad Hoc Judge in Shreveport City Court and she currently serves as City Attorney for the Town of Homer. She has received numerous awards and accolades including The Dr. Jesse N. Stone Pioneer Award from the Shreveport Branch NAACP. Advice she offers to young businesswomen is positivity—positivity is a choice.

Tell yourselves daily—you are amazing, you can do and accomplish anything, and you are prepared to succeed. The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.

Lori C. Graham is married to Gerod Durden, owner of Durden Property Group and local broker and realtor in Shreveport. They have two children, Joshua and Brooklynn. She enjoys family time, traveling, camping, fishing, and ATV riding.

Regain your confidence and start building your case by working with a passionate attorney. Call 318-869-0177 now to schedule a consultation.

Lori C. Graham Attorney at Law, LLC 7591 Fern Ave. Ste. 1204 Shreveport, LA 71105 attorneyloricgraham.com

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

REGIONAL UROLOGY CATIE GRIFFITH is a Certified Nurse Practitioner who joins Regional Urology to work as our Hospitalist, which means she sees our patients who are currently in the hospital. She completed her undergrad and graduate studies at Northwestern State University. She worked as a nurse for 8 years in ICU, OR, and neurosurgery with experience in gamma knife radiation before becoming a nurse practitioner. She is a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

Her husband Blake is a songwriter and they have two boys named Hudson and Riser. They love to spend time together outside and playing with their labrodoodle Maggie.

RACHEL SITTER is a nationally certified Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner that joined Regional Urology in November 2020.

Rachel completed her undergraduate nursing education at Northwestern State University and has over 21 years of nursing experience in Women’s Health, Urology, and Internal Medicine. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from Northwestern State University in Shreveport, LA. She is a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Rachel practices in our Shreveport location.

Rachel is married to Shane Sitter and has 2 children: Karli and Riley. She enjoys cooking, the outdoors, traveling the world, and spending time with family.

CAITLYN MATHIAS is a nationally certified physician assistant that joined Regional Urology in 2017. Caitlyn was born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana and completed her undergraduate education at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology. She then made her way back home and obtained her Masters of Physician Assistant Studies at LSU Health Shreveport. She practices general adult urology with special interests in stone disease and female urology such as overactive bladder, urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Additionally, she is trained in performing our MonaLisa

Touch vaginal laser. Caitlyn is also involved with our research department and actively participates in numerous clinical studies offering innovative forms of therapy to our patients.

Caitlyn is married to Austin Mathias and they have a one-year-old daughter, Mae Mathias. Caitlyn enjoys spending time with her family and friends, attending LSU football games, being outdoors, traveling, and attempting to prepare a tasty meal.

ANNA WATSON is a nationally board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, who joined Regional Urology in February 2020. Anna completed her undergraduate nursing education at the University of Louisiana at Monroe and has over a decade of nursing experience in various settings such as the emergency department, acute inpatient, post-surgical, and long-term inpatient care. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Louisiana in Lafayette, LA. She is a member of the American Urological Association and the Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates. Anna practices in our West Monroe location.

Anna is married to Kristopher Watson, from Ruston, LA and has two children, Jack and Molly. She enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.

LINDSEY BALLEW Lindsey Ballew is a nationally board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner that recently joined Regional Urology in January 2021.

Lindsey is originally from Crossville, AL, but her husband’s military career brought them to Louisiana where they decided to make their forever home. Lindsey completed her undergraduate degree in nursing at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches and gained critical nursing skills in the intensive care and post-anesthesia care units. She completed her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, AL. She is a member of AANP and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. She practices at our Natchitoches location.

Lindsey is married to Jeff Ballew and has a daughter, Sina Jade. She spends most of her free time being one of those crazy softball moms, yelling from the stands. Time spent with her family doing anything and everything is her idea of fun!

255 Bert Kouns Ind. Loop, Shreveport, LA • 318-683-0411 www.regionalurology.com SBMAG.NET

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

SLOAN’S FORMALS It seems like only yesterday that Sloan’s Formals opened her doors and now there is a second location at the Shops at Bellemead. Six years can fly by when you’re having fun. Owner, Patti Maughon’s and Co-Owner, Taylor Maughon’s only regret is not going into business sooner. For Patti, going from a stay-home mother and house wife to a business owner has inspired a greater confidence in herself. They both love the face to face interaction they have with their customers. Their best business decision, besides opening a brick and mortar store, is hiring their manager, Maddie Scott, to help with the day to day activities. A typical day begins with a bright smile and warm welcome to customers anxious to find the perfect gown or cocktail dress for that special occasion. Sloan’s Formals offers beautiful gowns to empower every woman of all shapes and sizes. In fact, Sloan’s has the largest selection of plus size formals in the Ark-La-Tex. With gorgeous gowns by Tarik Ediz, Jovani, Ashley Lauren, Ellie Wilde and Sherri Hill, you will find exactly what you’re looking for. Whether your event is a prom, homecoming, pageant, Mardi Gras Bal, or a society gala, you can rely on the ladies of Sloan’s Formals to find the perfect dress for the event. If confidence begets confidence, start your journey at Sloan’s Formals.

Shoppes at Bellemead 6535 Youree Drive #303 Shreveport, LA 71106 811 Benton Road Bossier City, LA 71111 318-584-7048 sloansformals.com

FORMALS

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JETER THERAPY GROUP

WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY Jeter Therapy Group is a locally owned multidisciplinary clinic that specializes in Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapy. For nearly ten years, we have offered proactive, quality healthcare in a safe and comfortable environment. Our mission is to provide evidenced-based assessment and treatment to pediatric and adult populations.

SPEECH THERAPY Our professional team is highly trained to evaluate and treat speech/language disorders, swallowing/feeding, voice disorders, cognitive/memory disorders, social pragmatics and orofacial myofunctional disorders.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Specialized care for fine and gross motor skills development, handwriting, feeding, activities of daily living, sensory, self-care, early intervention, orthopedic rehabilitation including progressive range of motion, strengthening exercises, and splint fabrication, and visual perceptual training.

PHYSICAL THERAPY Offering personalized care for pediatric developmental/ambulation training, strength/range of motion, balance and coordination, flexibility to increase range of motion, pain management, adaptive play, transfer and adaptive equipment assessments.

Jeter Therapy Group Owner, Dana Jeter Williams, became a speech language pathologist after one of her daughters was born deaf. “I wanted to understand how to help her, and that led me to help others,” said Williams, a Zwolle native whose passionate and determined personality fits her profession perfectly. She opened her clinics to fulfill the need for quality therapy service in the Shreveport, Bossier, Haughton and surrounding areas.

1950 E. 70TH ST. SUITE A SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 966 US-80 HAUGHTON, LA • (318) 219-6064 www.jeterslpservices.com

RENEE CARR,

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE RENEE CARR is an excellent Multi Line Insurance Agent that has offered Life Insurance and Annuity products through Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance for 25 years. Renee received a Bachelor’s in Finance from LSUS. During her studies, she took several classes on Risk management. After graduating, Renee met a Farm Bureau Agent that encouraged her to pursue a career as an Insurance Agent.

During her 25 years of experience, she has won multiple Farm Bureau and Industry awards, including National Quality Award, National Multi-Line Sales Award, and Roundtable Award for Life and Annuities.

Insurance is a very rewarding and flexible career path for women. Renee has been very successful in her career while also having the flexibility to participate in the PTA and be at all of her kid’s school functions. Renee is passionate about the service that she provides and loves helping her clients protect their family and assets.

8640 Business Park Dr Shreveport, LA 71105 (318) 532-4900 lafarmbureau.com/agent/la/caddo/shreveport/renee-carr/ SBMAG.NET

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022

Women in Business 2022

Alishea Pipkin · Retail Branch Manager, NMLS ID#626330

How long have you been in the industry for?

To learn more about the mortgage industry, I took a job as a Mortgage Loan Processor in 2006. In 2010, I became a Mortgage Loan Officer, and a few years later, in 2018, I was promoted to a Retail Branch Manager.

What do you consider great success and what keeps you inspired?

I love the satisfaction of seeing the pride people have when they are the first in their family to achieve homeownership, and when a family receives their keys, I am inspired to keep helping families and getting them home.

If you were mentoring a young woman, what advice would you give her?

Never give up. Be encouraged and stay encouraged. Never let someone tell you that you can’t do something and just show them how it’s done!

318-294-4955 ⋅ APipkin@PlanetHomeLending.com NMLS ID#17022

7607 Fern Ave., Suite 602 Shreveport, LA 71105 | Branch NMLS ID#1799105 | Equal Housing Lender. © 2022 Planet Home Lending, LLC | 321 Research Parkway, Suite 303, Meriden, CT 06450 (203) 265-5090 | For licensing information, go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org | NMLS ID #17022, AZ Mtg. Banker Lic MB-0929069, Licensed by The Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the CA Residential Mtg. Lending Act Lic #: 4130947, IL Residential Mtg. Licensee, Licensed by the NH Banking Dept., Licensed by the NJ Dept. of Banking and Insurance, OH Mortgage Broker Act Mtg., Rhode Island Licensed Lender, TX location 5020 Riverside Dr, Suite 300, Irving, TX 75039, Licensed Mortgage Banker—NYS Department of Financial Services.

COMING

NEXT MONTH IN SB MAGAZINE

SB Magazine’s Annual Top Attorneys issue is coming in March. Many will be showcased in a comprehensive enhanced listing. See who made this exclusive list!

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2 Locations to Serve You in Louisiana SHREVEPORT

1953 E 70th Street, Suite 7 Shreveport, LA 71105

318.798.0323

MONROE

1500 Royal Avenue Monroe, LA 71201

318.388.3534

TOLL FREE: 866.484.3878 | 31 SBMAG.NET

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SB PEOPLE

M

BY SCOTT ANDERSON

onro Brown marches to the beat of her own drum. It’s a blues beat, but her outlook for Shreveport is not blue at all.

“This has been a journey,” Brown said of her life that has taken a few unexpected diversions.

“But I try to keep a good attitude all the time. I’m learning that everyone is different. That’s what makes life interesting. It’s like a Louisiana gumbo.”

That is Brown’s approach to building a stronger community. Through her work with Community Renewal and her own non-profit organization, Seniors First, she seeks to span generation gaps by bringing seniors and young people together. “Seniors First is non-profit organization I founded to fill the gap between seniors and youth,” she said. “It reintegrates seniors into the community to sustain their cognitive ability. They become leaders in their own communities.”

Seniors First grew out of life-altering unexpected circumstance in Brown’s life. The Captain Shreve High School graduate earned a dual Associates degree in Accounting and Business Management from Southern University Shreveport in May 2017. She planned to move to Baton Rouge to continue her education, but her father, Lester “Knockout” Brown, died in February and her mother, Martha, eight months later, so she stayed in Shreveport.

“That’s when I started to realize there was a void in our community among our seniors,” she said. “I decided to do a case study, because I was really bamboozled by the fact that both my parents died in such a short time frame.” Her case study became the launching pad for Seniors First. Still, her initial goal was not to run a non-profit service organization.

“When I first started, I thought I was going to have a program every quarter,” Brown said. “Instead, it has turned into a developmental nonprofit. We react to things in the community. Whatever the community needs, we go out and get it.”

“Shreveport is about families that have known each other for years. Seniors First taps into that for the benefit of community as a whole.” Brown is a case manager certified in trust-based relational intervention and crisis intervention.

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MONRO BROWN

Marching On

Brown said her service as a Haven House leader for Community Renewal opened her eyes to a way both seniors and young people could find something they have been missing. “I saw a lack of authority in the community,” she said. “I see a lot of children who don’t identify the difference in themselves and adults. Instead of me trying to implement that connection, I decided to bring the seniors in. The youth are more comfortable with seniors giving guidance. “It helps seniors feel involved and combat loneliness and age- and death-related illnesses due to delayed access to transportation lead-

ing to isolation and depression. And there definitely needs to be some sort of pecking order today.”

“I would never disrespect my elders because that’s what I was taught. Today, we have other challenges. At Seniors First, we try to provide basic needs for the children.” And while Brown’s name is on the letterhead, she knows who’s in charge. “I am not the boss,” she said.

“Those seniors will tell you, ‘No, you can’t do it that way.’”

Brown said the connections she helps foster through Seniors First meet needs on multiple levels.

“The seniors are a lot more patient after all they have gone through in life,” she said. “The children just need something that you can’t see — that’s love. And the seniors give it to them openly. Children and seniors have lots of common emotional needs. The seniors provide legacy to the children by teaching them things.”

Uniting the community is Brown’s passion, but Seniors First is not her only tool. She is equally passionate about bringing people together through her love of music, which started in childhood. Brown grew up singing in choirs and performing in Caddo Parish schools and at church. Her extensive formal training including competing in state festivals. Back then, Brown saw it as her road to the top.

Brown realized she did not speak the language of the business side of the music industry. That’s when she decided to pursue a college degree. And while life changed her plans, she eventually completed her education online in 2019 through Southern University in Baton Rouge, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and Psychology. She also learned something else along the way. “Face-to-face classes aren’t always the best solution, because you don’t get a chance to become digitally advanced,” she said. “It was tough, because I felt like everybody expected me to fail after I lost both my parents. I was out to prove to myself I am not going to fail. College taught me patience with people. It taught me how to ask why and how to do research. It opened my eyes. I don’t point my finger as much anymore.”

“I thought I could make it right after high school, without a lot of college,” she said. Stage fright diverted her from the spotlight, at least for a while. But in 2010, she collaborated with Ron Johnson of the band Windstorm and his sons B.J. and Alex to produce an album titled “Reality Check, No Free Rides.” The album was nominated for three Just Blues awards, alongside Denise LaSalle and Millie Jackson. She was opening concerts for Latimore, Bobby Rush, Calvin Richardson, and others. She also got involved with the local arts community, performing at Christmas in the Sky and other local festivals, as well as fellowship and writing grants.

Music and the arts remain integral in Brown’s life. She has some local projects in the pipeline and is working on a web-based program on the Houston Live TV Network, interviewing movers and shakers in the music industry, like producer Ronald “Slack” Jefferson and global songwriter Michael Garvin, who is a Bossier City native.

Brown believes music and the arts are integral to a strong community. “Music is the core of everything,” she said. “Everybody has a song. Music is a great way to express yourself. Music is therapy.

Music is always going to be there. I think we need more arts here.

It gives people an opportunity to redefine or find themselves.”

She hit another bump in the road when Vicky Marshall told her she should work on building her portfolio. “I was like, ‘Excuse me?,’” she said. “I was a little insulted. I had met B.B. King and opened for Bobby Blue Bland. I had been nominated for awards.

While all those things counted, they really didn’t count in the ways I thought they did.”

And building a strong community is essential to Brown. “A lot of the things happening here I am concerned about because I have children and grandchildren here. I do care about what goes on here, no matter where I may go. My support system is here. It’s important to me to try to make some changes here. Hopefully, as I follow the example of my leaders, others will follow my example.”

Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler

WWW.GARDENPARKNURSINGANDREHAB.COM SBMAG.NET

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Sandra and George Bakowski, MD

Light it UP!

The BAKOWSKI BRIDGE OF LIGHTS Isn't Just Any Bridge

B

BY ADAM BAILEY

ridges come in all styles, shapes, and sizes.

Whether it is what took place on that bridge, its innovative design, or its setting—bridges are memorable. And sometimes, they are worth seeking out even if you simply wish to gaze on them.

Ask anyone. The bridge is arguably one of the most transformative engineering marvels of our time. Throughout history, they have brought people together to not only close the gaps between physical obstacles, but have helped find ways for people to share a multitude of experiences.

Remember the significance of the Bering Strait Land Bridge? The place most archaeologists agree humans first passed from Asia to populate the Americas. Or, thousands of years later, the newly opened Brooklyn Bridge, where Showman P.T. Barnum led 21 elephants, 7 camels, and 10 dromedaries to prove the bridge’s safety (not to mention its usefulness as a public-relations opportunity). What about that known bridge that cuts your commute in half? I bet it has a name, even if it’s an unofficial one.

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Why are they significant? Bridges connect people, communities, and economies—creating possibilities out of impossibilities. They are a powerful creator of opportunity; more than just spans of pavement across a chasm. A bridge is a metaphor that defines a connection through communication and art, binding people together on an issue or idea.

Think about it. The concept of what the bridge is, and what it can become. That notion, too, is constantly changing.

Over the last two decades, cities from London to New York, from San Francisco to Singapore, have transformed their city’s bridges into breathtaking canvasses of light illuminating the landscape—reinvigorating new life where these sprawling structures have made their connections.

Now, thanks to a public and private sector commitment, Shreveport-Bossier will join in this up-and-coming architectural lighting trend that will display a spectacular palette of light, art, color, and creativity over the Red River with the Bakowski Bridge of Lights.

In 1994, anyone driving through Shreveport-Bossier got to enjoy the glow of the neon lights that adorned the Texas

Street Bridge. Even though many people questioned its cost and scratched their heads over the project, the goal was to create a signature piece of public art that would not only help define Shreveport in a creative, strikingly visual, and very public way, but to help connect Shreveport with its sister city on the other side of the river. Was it successful? Absolutely! Has it not become a lasting image that, even to this day, helped give an identity to Shreveport-Bossier? To many, it became a beacon of pride for the two cities and attracted events such as the Miss Teen and Miss USA pageants, where it was proudly boasted, “Our runway is paved in Neon!”

Unfortunately—due to vibration, road dust, weather, and father time—the lights stopped working. However, a recent renovation project on the bridge is calling for something new; one that has been six years in the making. The Shreveport Regional Arts Council (SRAC)—the “Public Art Arm” of the City of Shreveport—took the lead to re-light the bridge. Now, the Texas Street Bridge—officially known as the Long-Allen Bridge—is set to be updated and outfitted with over 13,000 LED lights that will illuminate all 2,982 feet of the bridge, thanks in large part to a one-million-dollar commitment from Dr. George Bakowski and his wife, Sandra.

“For over forty-five years, Shreveport-Bossier has generously supported my optometry practice, and what better way to bring our community together than with light—uniting people with the civic pride as nothing else will,” said Dr. Bakowski. “It will be a catalyst for community involvement, pride and, hopefully, spur economic development.”

The project to relight the bridge, according to Dr. Bakowski, was his wife’s idea.

Over six years ago, when the couple read that the bridge’s neon lights had been extinguished, it was Mrs. Bakowski who said that something should be done to recreate a sense of civic pride for both Shreveport and Bossier City. “George and I are glad to bring this project to light,” says Mrs. Bakowski. “The aim is to not only showcase the great work of art to those traveling daily on I-20, but it will transform the landscape of the Red River and unite the communities and economic development within both Shreveport and Bossier City. Our hope is that this is the first step in incentivizing others to contribute to a new era of vitality for our area of northwest Louisiana and help create a symbol of vision for the community.”

Along with Bakowski’s donation, the City of Shreveport, the City of Bossier City, the Red River Waterway Commission, and the Louisiana Public Service Commission committed funding for the road lighting and the installation of the new lights.

Other project donors were the Downtown Development Authority and Will Atkins who are supporting the programming and maintenance of the bridge. Furthermore, the Shreveport Regional Arts Council (SRAC) has enlisted a team of local art-

ists, designers, and IT professionals to create a state-of-the-art bridge lighting system. SRAC is counting on this team to commit to using the project as a pipeline for training artists, both young and old, to be able to add coding (and other technical skills) to their professional art careers.

“Shreveport is alight with creativity, talent, and public-private cooperation,” said SRAC Executive Director Pam Atchison.

“The Bakowski Bridge of Lights is going to astound people with its interactive and constantly morphing colors, shapes, and forms. It will be a show-stopping statement on the skyline of our two cities, all designed by local artists, both young and old, and programmed by IT professionals—all from right here in northwest Louisiana.”

Everyone—from professionals to kids to newlyweds to all those in between—will be able to contribute to its success.

To begin, William Joyce will showcase his light show at the grand opening, which will include choreographed music and fireworks that culminate in a crescendo of music and energy.

According to Joyce, “It will be like nothing I have ever done before—a fundamental shift in our skyline, turning the bridge into a light sculpture in a dynamic, ever-changing way and pushing technology as far as we can push it to see what we can accomplish. It’s going to be the heartbeat that courses life between our two cities!”

Keith Hanson, Chief Technology Officer, and Smart Cities Director for the City of Shreveport, alongside SRAC’s artist-in-residence, will collaborate all the primary IT-professional programming for the bridge. Hansen stated he is excited about multiple opportunities afforded by both artists and IT professionals and thinks the opportunity will create a new movement within the city.

“This work is a cool blend of Testing the lights. Photo: SRAC the ideas and skills of technologists and artists. I will also have the opportunity to mentor young minds in art and technology to hopefully catapult them into a new career,” said Hanson.

The general public, too, will be able to purchase bridge lighting designs for celebrations, special occasions, and announcements, and specific lighting programs can feature an assortment of causes such as Breast Cancer and AIDS Awareness. Riverfront venues such as the Sci-Port rooftop and the Shreveport Aquarium patio (now heated, cooled, and covered) have developed special packages for weddings, baby gender reveals, anniversaries, etc. These events can include a custom-designed light show for the special occasion.

The bridge lights can also be programmed to welcome visitors to conventions, announce major community events such as the Independence Bowl, the Bass Pro Classic Tournament, Mudbug Madness, and the Red River Revel. Stacy Brown, President and CEO of the Shreveport/Bossier Convention & Tourist Bureau, believes the bridge will “provide an iconic landmark SBMAG.NET

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Photo: SRAC

Don’t Miss It!

“BRIGHT OPENING” of the BAKOWSKI BRIDGE OF LIGHTS Texas Street Bridge 2-22-22 5:30 pm

a “LIGHT FORCE” of art & technology

ENERGIZING Shreveport /Bossier City!

www.texasstreetbridge.com

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It’s what technology has made possible—art that’s dynamic, that shifts mood and shape, and sometimes augments reality. To put it simply, this bridge can create connections—literally and metaphorically. Much like a campfire stimulates conversation and participation from those surrounding it, the Bridge of Lights will be doing something similar. And while it doesn’t hurt that it’s eye-catching— from many points on both sides of the Red River—the added perk is that you will be able to connect with somebody next to you who is also experiencing the same thing you are. It definitely will be a focal point in which people can gather around.

that ties Shreveport and Bossier City together in a way that resonates with residents and visitors. It will also be a unique tool to entice conventions and events to northwest Louisiana with the opportunity to customize the lights to showcase their events.”

Furthermore, starting in June 2022, the first Friday of every month on alternating sides of the river, there will be parties under the bridge with an arts market, street performers, and food trucks. Students from Southern University at Shreveport, Bossier Parish Community College, Caddo Parish Public Schools, and the VOA Lighthouse Afterschool Program plan to create light shows. The bridge, needless to say, will be constantly changing to be the best thing to experience this year.

Just ask anyone involved. They all believe it will be more than just a visual feast. It will be a living, moving example of how art can help transform a city—on many fronts—and it will certainly illuminate the importance of public art, in general. In an era where traditional funding, respect, and attention to gutsy creative endeavors seem to have waned dramatically, shifting to the more distracting fancies found in the babble of Facebook updates, Twitter spawns, or the empty mental calories found in watching TikTok videos—The Bridge of Lights has all the makings to be a remarkable concept.

Here are a few reasons worth noting.

First, public art has come a long way from granite statues of men in city parks. And it’s not just about the scale of something like the Bridge of Lights.

Beyond ‘connection,’ the work unites art with technology. And if there’s one thing Shreveport-Bossier understands—especially considering SRAC’s involvement—it’s “art” and “techy” things.

Finally, there’s the economic boost— the work is bound to lure travelers near and far into the area. While many upcoming, high-profile, events such as Mudbug Madness will attract swarms of visitors to downtown, many will flock to various points of interest on both sides of the river for the lone purpose to experience the bridge.

According to Pam Atchison, a tool SRAC plans to use to help measure economic impact is called the Signify Social Media app, which tracks where “Bakowski Bridge Lights” chatter originates. “For example, we will know when someone makes an Instagram post from the Jack Binion’s restaurant at the Horseshoe Casino, or posts on Facebook from the Louisiana Boardwalk. This information will be shared with the area businesses so that they may consider advertising campaigns.”

Atchison believes the bridge will funnel new economic benefits into the local economy for years to come.

The bottom line is, The Bridge of Lights can be used as a model for how other cities can become more inventive with their infrastructure and public art.

There can be little question that digital technology is now the driver, in not just how we interact with our environment, but also in how we view it. And whether its method is to enhance the world around us or to change entirely how it appears, this is where public art is headed. It will be a catalyst indeed.

With that being said …light it up!

Roald Dahl’s amazing tale is the golden ticket that is touring the imagi-nation!

It’s the perfect recipe for a delectable treat: songs from the original film, including “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man,” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” alongside a toe-tapping, ear-tickling new score from the songwriters of Hairspray. Get ready for Oompa-Loompas, incredible inventions, the great glass elevator, and more, more, more at this everlasting showstopper!

thestrandtheatre.com (318) 226-8555

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SB PETS

BETTA FISH: “BETTA” THAN

A N Y OTH E R FIS H?

BY HAILEY LAWSON

B

etta Fish (or Siamese fighting fish) are a popular freshwater fish with a wide range of brilliant colors, including red, blue, orange, yellow, green, purple, brown, and black. They may be solid, bicolored, multicolored, marbled, piebald, or variegated. Moreover, betta fish are easily recognizable by their beautifully colored, eye-catching tails that gracefully flow through the water.

Bettas are great for small aquariums because they can breathe air or take in oxygen through their gills, making them great fish for a less active tank. Their vivid coloring has made them one of the most popular aquarium fish. Betta fish are originally native to the Mekong River throughout Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia. The very aggressive males will often fight each other to death. Even females can be aggressive, but less so than males. In a community aquarium, bettas will attack other brightly colored fish while leaving less colorful species alone.

Adult bettas grow to be 2 to 3 inches long, not including the length of their fancy flowing tails. Male bettas have more intricate fins than females and are bred to produce fins in various shapes, while wild bettas generally have smaller fins with duller shades of gray, brown, and green. Bettas typically live for about two to five years, but they can live longer than that with proper care. Male bettas are usually sold in pet

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stores after they reach one year old—this allows for full color and fin development. Female bettas are generally six months old when they’re sold.

BEAT THE CROWDS AND START YOUR CHILD IN LESSONS NOW! WINTER SPECIAL 15 LESSONS FOR THE PRICE OF 12

TIPS FOR A HAPPY BETTA ˛ Tank Size: A comfortable 4 to 5-gallon tank or larger

is perfect for bettas. This allows plenty of room for the fish to swim comfortably and for plants.

˛ Water Quality: Bettas do best in

water ranging from a neutral 7.0 pH to slightly acidic. Their water should be kept between 74-82 degrees.

Located centrally on Youree Drive, hundreds of families have visited the center to ensure their children learn to swim in the area’s only purpose built beginners center.

7141 YOUREE DRIVE #100 • SHREVEPORT • 318-995-3043

SHREVEPORT@JUMPSWIMSCHOOLS.COM WWW.JUMPSWIMSCHOOLS.COM

˛ Companions: Male

bettas should always be kept alone; however, females can be kept in small groups in larger tanks with plenty of room.

˛ Tank Care: The tank will need regular cleaning and

water changing to keep the betta healthy. Smaller tanks may need cleaning several times a week, especially if there is no filter.

˛ Plants and Accessories: Bettas do great with denser

plants in their tank. It helps them feel safe and minimizes their aggressive behavior. A small ceramic log is a perfect hide-out for a betta, but avoid any type of tank accessories with mirrored or reflective surfaces.

˛ Proper Food: Bettas are carnivores and require a

diet high in animal protein. Pellet or flake forms of dried bloodworms and brine shrimp are perfect for betta fish, but never feed more than the fish eats in 2-3 minutes.

Bettas are beautiful fish to own. Like any pet, bettas can quickly become a part of your family, and many will even interact with you and be playful. Enjoying your pet betta starts with proper care. Understanding their unique behavior and needs will help you provide the best possible habitat for your betta to thrive.

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t

he Cotillion was started as a festival in 1949 to bring people together, stimulate interest in greater Shreveport and boost the local economy. True to its crest, Cotillion has offered grace and beauty in work and play to our area for more than seventy years. The Seventy-third Cotillion will offer a dazzling world of fantasy on Friday, April 8, 2022 as their Royal Majesties, Rex LXXIII and Regina LXXIII reign over “The Greatest Show” at the Municipal Auditorium.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Children of All Ages, the circus is coming to town!

Logo artwork by Rebecca Hargrove

Cotillion President Michael John Hoogland

2022 COtILLION CLUB ROYAL COURt H i s M a j e s t y ’s Pa g e s

Master Scott Hawkins Fritze Master Jeremy Christian Knicely, Jr.

H e r M a j e s t y ’s Pa g e s

His Royal Majesty: Rex LXXIII, Mr. Mark Pollard Sealy

Her Royal Majesty: Regina LXXIII, Miss Natalie Ann Lukacs

tHE PRINCES & PRINCESSES

His Royal Highness: His Royal Highness: Her Royal Highness: Her Royal Highness: The Prince, The Prince, The Princess, The Princess, Mr. Drew Richard Mr. Lucas Allen Miss Emma Miss Sidney Marie Dethloff LeBlanc Madison Yerger Harman Ross

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Master Graham Stewart Gautreau Master Stafford Sloan Vigen

T h e H e ra l d s

Miss Katherine Ivy Kendrick Miss Mary Louise Kneip Miss Olivia Reese Reesby Miss Elizabeth Ewing White

Duchesses of the Court

Duchess Mary Brandon Harrell

Duchess Avery Anne Jeffcoat

Duchess Caroline Grace Alford

Duchess Sarah Kaitlin Aldredge

Duchess Laura Key Tucker

Duchess Reagan Danielle Stewart

Ladies of the Court

Miss Grace Emory Crooms

Miss Hollice Gene Dorsett

Miss Caroline Gloria Evensky

Miss Mary Eleanor Hooper

Miss Helen Hutchinson Jackson

Miss Madeline Grace LaBorde

Miss Olivia Day Morgan

Miss Mary-Elizabeth Durrett Nordberg

Miss Jane Frances Ponthie

Miss Sarah Grace Prestwood

Miss Mary Frances Elizabeth Ratcliff

Miss Rachel Devereux Richards

Miss Caroline Elizabeth Rockett

Miss Mary Kathryn Ellender Smith

Miss Ainsley Elise Stansell

Miss Allison Grace Trawick

Gentlemen of the Court

Mr. Henry Gunnar Anderson

Mr. Andrew David Atkins

Mr. John Andrew Batson, Jr.

Mr. John Murray Brainard

Mr. Christopher Quinn Ferrier

Mr. Charles Owen Hardtner

Mr. Thomas Everett Hebert

Mr. Bennett Creighton Hodges

Mr. Grant Michael John

Mr. Henry Cole Lott

Mr. Crawford Elam McInnis, Jr.

Mr. Sterrett Samuel McInnis

Mr. Christopher Alexander McJunkins

Mr. Gabriel Lewis Miciotto

Mr. John Peyton Morgan

Mr. Johnathan Campbell Siskron

Mr. Jack Basile Smith

Mr. Beckett Allen Soignier

Mr. James Michael Stuart

Mr. Robert Guice Thompson

Mr. Gabriel Terah Thrash SBMAG.NET

Mr. Allen Benson Williams

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SB ART & CULTURE

OPERA MAY SURPRISE YOU

Y

BY SEVA MAY

ou could have knocked me over with a feather when, a few months ago, my husband agreed to accompany me to the Shreveport Opera’s production of The Marriage of Figaro. Three hours later I was equally thrilled as he proclaimed (while I scraped my jaw off the ground) that he had enjoyed it immensely. I was surprised because he rarely likes this form of entertainment unless I am involved in some form or fashion. He is more of a golf enthusiast, LSU football fan, and now, a Cincinnati Bengals supporter.

When I gave some thought to it, I should not have been so terribly dumbfounded. Opera is the art form that comes closest to expressing our pure emotions. It’s vivid storytelling at its finest and provides a mirror to who we are. A well-executed and performed opera production can make its patrons feel an emotion, not just toward the performers but with each other in the audience.

Opera has been around for well over 400 years and yet it is the first multimedia form of entertainment. Combining theatre, dance, music, and design, opera meets one of our most basic needs: storytelling. As with so many other art forms: drama, music, musical theatre, ballet, modern dance, and visual arts to name a few, opera ranks high on the scale as an essential part of civilized culture.

Opera is the richest, most complex, and most expensive performance art to produce. It requires a great deal more concentration than sitting in front of the television set. You will not want to miss the big moments in an opera production that deal with life, love, death, loss, passion, joy, and anger. You might miss the crucial turning point if you so much as shift in your seat.

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Shreveport-Bossier City is incredibly fortunate to have one of the oldest opera companies in the country, the Shreveport Opera. Under the leadership of General and Artistic Director, Steve Aiken and Executive Director, COO, Jennifer McMenamin, we have been enlightened and entertained by hundreds of beautifully produced operas.

The Shreveport Opera will present Verdi’s Rigoletto in March.

Composed by Giuseppi Verdi with the Italian libretto by Francesco Maria Piave, Rigoletto will treat you to a story filled with suspense.

Add to that a little seduction, a bit of love, and an ultimate sacrifice, and you have the recipe for a legendary operatic tragedy.

Verdi’s Rigoletto will be performed in Italian with English subtitles projected on the stage. With music provided by the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Maestro John Baril, Artistic Director of Central City Opera, and a cast of professional characters, Rigoletto may be that show that gets you hooked on opera. Go out on a limb and reserve your seat. Don’t be the one out of ten people who claim they do not like opera yet have never seen one… shreveportopera.org

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L’ AMOUR DE SOI

Dr. Cynthia Noguera

Getting Ready for

the BIG DAY: SKINCARE TREATMENTS

A

BY DR. LINDSEY PENNINGTON

s we emerge from winter and two years of quarantine—including this most recent Omicron wave—there is a lot to look forward to this spring in Louisiana, including the first real wedding season since 2019.

Whether you are a guest, the Mother of the Bride, or the Bride herself, you no doubt want to have flawless skin for that special day. The best time to start planning for any upcoming event, though, is now!

Give yourself enough time to make a plan with your physician, as well as enough time to accomplish it. As women who have experienced that pressure for everything to be perfect on that special day, we know how much you want to put your best face forward!

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Lauren Vizza undergoing a Diamond Glow Dermalinfusion

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Jordan (Sandifer) Danvers & Mother of the Bride Waynette Ballengee. Photo: John Cain

6-12 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY This is the best time for Brides or Mother of the Brides (and Grooms) to set up a complimentary consultation and exam to determine your goals and develop a plan. A six to twelve month timeline gives enough time to trial new skincare products or undergo a treatment or laser that could have a little downtime while working around your busy schedule of engagement parties, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, and the Big Day. Your skin also needs enough time to regenerate the collagen needed to lift, tighten, shrink pores, and smooth out the fine lines and wrinkles.

A popular non-invasive treatment to achieve those goals is the Morpheus8 device, which uses micro-needling with radio frequency. It combines three treatments into one: radiofrequency for skin tightening, micro needling for collagen production, plus laser skin resurfacing.

At any age, this is an amazing treatment to do on the face, neck and chest with minimal downtime. Treatments should always be overseen by a physician who is trained and experienced with the procedure as these devices have amazing results but are very operator dependent.

The settings have to be adjusted based on your age, anatomy, skin type and goals.

4-6 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY Four to six months before a major event is the optimal time to start facial volume restoration with fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane. These can Haley (Bagwell) Lewis. Photo: Justin Kunimoto add instant subtle volume on their own, or if the goal is to stimulate your body’s own collagen, products like Radiesse or Sculptra are also options. These products are used to lift and contour the cheeks, fill the temples, smooth nasolabial folds, sculpt the jawline and plump the lips.

When done by the right cosmetic physician, dermal fillers can provide a natural result that puts volume back in the areas where you have lost it over time to restore your natural beauty.

It can feel very overwhelming when trying to make these decisions, so be sure to depend on the experts for guidance, whether you have a very specific concern to address, or just require a general consultation to guide you through your options.

There is also a medical grade skincare routine to further reach your skin goals. Products such as SkinMedica’s TNS Advanced+ Serum is a great addition to any in-office treatment

to increase collagen and elastin production and aid in skin renewal. In a clinical study, patients using this product felt they looked up to six years younger after just twelve weeks. If your concern is acne, pigment, sun spots or facial redness, then four to six months gives your physician plenty of time to get you on a prescription treatment and for it to work before the big day.

Some conditions may require in office laser treatments to correct, so you should plan for any needed downtime. With so many options, a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic phy- Lauren Vizza. Photo: Zac Grimaldo sician to tailor an individual plan for you is so important.

3-4 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY Three to four months out from your event is a great time to get your neuromodulator treatment with Botox or Dysport.

These products take two weeks to show results, so you want to give enough time for the treatment to kick-in, while also allowing time for a touch up to ensure it looks perfect.

2-3 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY We also recommend starting facials a couple months out from your event to make sure your skin is glowing by the big day.

The DiamondGlow Deluxe dermal infusion is a non-invasive, medical 3-in-1 treatment that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts and infuses skin with condition-specific serums. It is the first and only critically timed, exfoliation-to serum treatment technology with optimal-depth delivery for immediate and long-lasting results on all skin types-with no downtime!

Depending on your skin goals this facial can be tailored to provide hydration, brighten skin, fight acne or improve collagen production. “I personally did DiamondGlow Facials monthly leading up to my wedding, including the week of my wedding,” says dermatologist Skylar Souyoul, MD. “It calmed my acne, cleaned out my pores, and helped my professional make-up sit so much smoother on my skin.”

Dr. Lindsey Pennington is the only female double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon with a solo private practice in the State of Louisiana. She focuses on both non-invasive and surgical facial rejuvenation. She is joined by Dr. Skylar Souyoul, Board Certified Dermatologist, in Shreveport at their office on Line Ave, Lindsey Pennington, MD Facial Plastics. All brides and the mother of the bride presented here are patients of Dr. Pennington.

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SB WE D D ING S

Mary & Alphonso Williams J A N U A R Y 2 2 , 2 0 2 2 • S H R E V E P O R T, L A

L

OVE AT FIRST LIGHT: “Mary and I met at a traffic light!” shares Alphonso. The light was just about to turn green when he signaled for her to roll her window down.

“I quickly thought of my #1 pickup-line; You’re about to miss your blessing being on that phone.”

The newlyweds exchanged numbers and have been together ever since.

When it came time to plan their nuptials, they had a single vision: “We wanted a traditional yet modern and elegant wedding. Our dream wedding became a reality with the help of Mrs. Lisa Patterson, owner of Patterson’s Touch of Elegance, as our designer, and coordinator, Leslie Coleman, owner of Serenity Events Planning, to create this perfect day!” Alphonso’s main request: A DALLAS COWBOY THEME mixed with Mary’s lace and flowers.

INTO THE CHURCH: The couple are members of the beautiful Western Hills Baptist Church in Shreveport.

“We love our Pastor, Joey, and his wife, Sharon, and wanted them to marry us.” A selection of music was played prior to the ceremony by DJ Bedrock (Torrance Bedford).

THE BRIDAL PARTY & MOTHERS: Bridesmaids and Mothers, wearing dusty blue chiffon gowns by David’s Bridal and Azazie, were escorted to the altar by the groomsmen.

DAPPER GROOM: Alphonso looked magnificent wearing a Joseph Couture original Tuxedo, while his groomsmen complemented the groom by wearing Tuxedos from Oxford Street.

THE WALK DOWN THE AISLE: The couple opted for her nephew, Treylan, to roll a white laced carpet down the aisle for Mary’s walk to the altar, instead of having a flower girl.

Mary’s brother-in-law, singer/songwriter, NAACP Image Award winner, Soul Train award nominee, and Grammy award nominee, Kenny Lattimore, sang one of his all-time hits, “For You,” as she walked to the altar. Kenny is married to Mary’s sister, Judge Faith Jenkins-Lattimore. Mary did not walk alone—in her heart, the loving memory of her beloved Father, Robert Jenkins, led her down the aisle.

Before he transitioned, he gave his blessings to the couple for a loving and successful marriage.

HERE COMES THE BRIDE: Mary looked stunning as she made her debut wearing a Lovely Bride California Boutique V-Neckline Wedding Dress with a Mermaid Court Train and beaded lace applique. The focal point of her dress was the dramatic skirt and train, making Mary’s entrance and exit a show-stopping moment.

Adding drama and elegance as she walked down the aisle was her cathedral veil composed of floral lace, 114 cm in length.

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BOUQUETS & BOUTONNIERES: Mary carried a beautiful bouquet of white roses and tulips as did the bridesmaids, while the groom and groomsmen wore matching white roses made by Flowers and Country.

THE CEREMONY: Traditional vows and rings were exchanged. The couple chose 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 scripture verse because it is a powerful message that fits in with their ideals of marriage: companionship, commitment, responsibility, and mutual support. The Ceremony consisted of the Unity Candle and Cord of Three Strands, while Pastor Patrick Dennis of Bright Star Baptist Church of Shreveport and his ensemble blessed the church with a combination of two gospel hit songs that created a Godly atmosphere for everyone attending. Mary chose the Cord of Three Strands because her mom has always taught her to put God First in your relationship.

SIGNED, SEALED, & DELIVERED: At the conclusion of the ceremony, family and friends witnessed the pure love and joy on the faces of the Newlyweds as they threw their held hands in the air as they exited the church to the song by Stevie Wonder, Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours. The musicality of the ceremony gave a hint as to how the rest of the day would treat their guests.

QUICK CHANGE: For the reception, the bride changed into a Bridal jumpsuit perfect for dancing into the night with her Groom. Mary wore a Mrs. Leather Jacket designed by Brodie Bride.

A SKYBOX RECEPTION: The couple wanted to take advantage of every opportunity to personalize their wedding to make their day memorable for their guests.

Keeping in line with the Dallas Cowboy theme, the couple chose the most obvious venue—Independence Stadium Skybox—for their reception.

Guests were greeted by the voice of saxophonist, Eddie Spencer. Eddie entertained the guests with a mixture of music which left the guests in awe by his rendition of Louis Armstrong’s, “What a Wonderful World.”

The dance reception would not have been complete without the genre music provided by DJ Bedrock. He kept our wedding party and guests entertained and on the dance floor.

BRIDE’S TABLE & FINE SOUTHERN DINING: The Bride’s Table was made of floral swag, sequin napkins, with crystal King & Queen candleholders. Taylor’s Catering served up some Southern Classics favorites putting a gourmet spin on the dinner menu.

THE SENDOFF: The couple walked out of the reception through a long line of friends and family, who sent them off to their honeymoon in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, with a sparkler-flanked exit.

Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Alphonso Williams!

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Lauren Vizza. Photo: Zac Grimaldo

The Big Day will be here before you know it, but it seems a million decisions need to be made between now and then. Find advice and inspiration and venues and services in the pages to follow. Best Wishes for a dreamy wedding and strong marriage.

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Pro Tips to Trim Your WEDDING BUDGET When it comes to weddings we want it all, right?

The love/hate relationship we have with our wedding budget is for real. Pinterest can be a bit deceptive when it comes to the actual cost of aislelength floral installments and beer burros. At a certain point, most of us must come back to reality.

Here are 5 tips for reining in a growing budget: 1. Cut That Guest Count That’s right, we said it! This may be an unpopular idea (initially), but just let it sink in. Trimming the guest list is the easiest way to cut your budget without deflating your dream wedding day experience. What about your day is most meaningful to you? Capture special moments with a top-notch photographer, plan a meaningful menu, hire an amazing band, or even a day-of coordinator to relieve some stress! Do you really need all 250 guests in attendance to have the day of your dreams? What is their current status in your life? It never hurts to take a hard look at the list and do a little editing!

2. Make Smart Menu Choices Brides often mention that they only want ‘small bites’ or ‘finger foods’ at their wedding, with the idea that an appetizer-only menu will cut costs. The truth is, the labor it takes to make small bites from scratch (or even for your caterer to buy them pre-made) can get really expensive! Large-batch foods such as jambalaya, fajita bars, or even BBQ brisket and potatoes are much more budget-friendly. Plus, hearty foods will keep your guests drinking and dancing the night away (rather than ducking out early to find some fast food)!

3. Rethink The Bar Batch-made cocktails are SO on-trend (and SO onbudget)! Offering a full open bar with liquor can definitely be a budget-busting addition. Instead, offer a limited selection of beer, wine, and 2-3 batched specialty cocktails. They are easy for less-experienced bar staff to serve (cutting down on lines at the bar) and still give guests a fun alternative to the standards.

4. Will You Be My Bridesmaid?

How close are you to all of your bridesmaids? Did you know that bouquets for just 8 bridesmaids can cost around $1,000? Trimming down your wedding party - or even exploring alternatives to the traditional bridesmaid bouquets - can really save you in a pinch!

5. Do Your Homework (From Day One!) Find a venue that does not nickel-and-dime you.

Will you have to pay extra for chairs or tables? How about a cleaning fee? Rehearsal fee? Linen rental?

Extra utensils? The list goes on. A space may seem affordable at the beginning, but all those add-ons really add up! Do your homework in advance to nail down what the full investment will be on the back end. Or…find an all-inclusive venue that handles it all!

Thank you to Holly Schreiber and Hillary Moss, Owners of Sainte Terre Events, for sharing these tips!

Photo Sainte Terre SBMAG.NET

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Bella Bridesmaids

Hey girl, hey! Have you been to Bella Bridesmaids?

Feel like you have to make tons of wedding decisions and you just want someone to sort through everything for you based on your vision? That’s where your Bella Bridesmaids styling team comes to the rescue! We have over 1,000 dresses that you can see, touch, and try on to find your perfect dress for your perfect day. It’s the largest selection of bridesmaid dresses in the area!

During your appointment, we work with you and your bridesmaids to guide you through the fabrics, colors, and styles to find your perfect look. Even if you already know exactly what you want, your stylist is here to answer every question you and your bridesmaids have, provide measurements and sizing guidance, and keep track of shipping. We carry an extensive collection of designer dresses that enhance every wedding, at every budget, and can be worn by all bridesmaids. Our styles are made to order, which allows us to offer sizes from 00 to 30W. We also have Mother of the Bride/Groom and Flower Girl dresses!

Our goal is to create a fun experience for each wedding party that walks through our door! You deserve to have the perfect wedding planning experience. Come see us! We are here to help!

CedarCroft

CedarCroft offers an authentic 1930s newly renovated barn, a stately plantation home, and an elegant garden area for your party, wedding, or reception. Visit our Facebook page, Instagram, or website for more information. www.

CedarCroftplantation.com

Dream Vacations

Let Dream Vacations by Crissy Parikh take the stress out of the decision making and help you choose the ideal place for you and your sweetheart to celebrate your “I Do’s!”

❏ ❏ ❏

Sandals Caribbean Mexico

❏ ❏ ❏

All-Inclusive Disney Cruise

And remember… there is never a fee with Crissy!

Happily Ever After

Welcome Brides! At Happily Ever After, brides are our passion! We understand how your bridal gown sets the stage for the most important day of your life, and we work hard to ensure that our brides and their families have the experience to remember. We strive to have a selection of gowns to satisfy even the most particular of brides! We handpick each style with you in mind. We offer a unique and diversified collection of designer gowns, with exquisite lace, beading, fabrics, and details that compliment your shape and express your unique personality. Our stylists are highly trained and work within your specific guidelines and needs to find the perfect gown for your perfect day.

A wedding dress….the garment a woman wears the day her life changes…We look forward to helping you find the dress that most clearly defines you on your Special Day!

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Lewis’ Gifts

Voted best gift shop in SB Magazine, Lewis’ Gifts has a sought after wedding registry in NW Louisiana—with all of the top brand names in the tabletop industry! We carry all of the fine china lines—Herend, Pickard, Anna Weatherly, Ginori and so much more. In addition we have the top brands of everyday tableware—Juliska, Vietri, Skyros, Casafina plus many more!

Registering at Lewis’ is a part of a bride’s entire wedding planning. We set aside a couple of hours to work with the couple in planning both their fine china settings and their everyday tabletop settings. They also register for luxury bedding, kitchen items, home décor—anything they would like on their registry.

We work with the couple from beginning until after the wedding when we sit down and order everything they need to complete the registry.

Our experienced bridal consultants offer advice and can help the bride plan her perfect registry! Everything is online on our website for the convenience of all the guests to see the registry and choose that very special gift.

Just give us a call to make your appointment when you are ready to plan your beautiful Lewis’ registry!

Patterson’s Touch of Elegance

Lisa Patterson has been producing weddings and special events, both big and small for 25 plus years, with a big heart and a love for her clients. In the early 1990’s she branched out and started doing family and friends events such as weddings, birthday parties, and anniversaries, and from there is history. She’s very dedicated when it comes to decorating. Any of her brides will tell you (yes, indeed). Her motto is “Making Dreams Come True.” Lisa enjoys going to church, spending time with family, and traveling. For all your special occasions, let Patterson’s Touch of Elegance “Make your dreams come true.”

Sainte Terre

From intimate ceremonies to events of up to 250 guests, Sainte Terre offers a one-of-a-kind setting for an unforgettable wedding. With the perfect balance of farmhouse charm and modern luxury, weddings at Sainte Terre are elegant, understated, and personally tailored to your tastes and personality, creating a breathtaking experience that is a true reflection of you as a couple. From coordination and planning, menu and catering, cake, photography, florals, DJ, and service staff to set-up and clean-up, we do it all!

We’re also thrilled to announce our newest venue, The Stables at Sainte Terre. Set on over forty acres of rolling hills, The Stables will offer everything you’ve come to expect from a Sainte Terre event…such as an elevated service experience, culinary excellence, and sophisticated style. With indoor and outdoor ceremony options and a uniquely designed reception space, we’ll be able to host up to 350 guests. Join us on March 6th for The Stables Showcase! Get an exclusive first look and more details about our flexible wedding packages. Email to RSVP, as space is limited, at events@ sainteterre.com.

Venue de LaChute

Introducing Venue de LaChute, a Shreveport landmark in southeast Caddo Parish. The stately mansion and grounds opened its doors in 2018, and quickly gained the attention of couples locally and abroad. The venue offers the beauty of multiple outdoor spaces for committing to vows, while providing the comforts and reassurance of indoor spaces to celebrate the special occasion.

The grounds offer breath-taking mature live oaks, vintage brick walking paths, manicured lawns, and tranquil water features.

The Carriage House Reception facility, a newly constructed space, boasts a white, neutral pallet to compliment any bride’s style. Inside the main house, the bride and her ladies relax and prepare for the day in a Bridal Suite designed for pampering and capturing exquisite photography.

Village Cuisine

Need a date night with your special someone? Looking for something different and unique? Look no further than Village Cuisine Catering and Café, located a short drive from Shreveport/Bossier. We offer a respite from the hustle and bustle with food prepared from scratch in the historic Village of Grand Cane. Not only do we offer lunch three days a week, and dinner one night a week - but once a month we offer Steak Night! Local pasture raised beef tenderloin filets hand cut and prepared to order with a red wine reduction, along with delicious sides, salads, and specialty desserts (for those non red meat eaters - we will always have dishes for you as well).

This charming southern estate offers fresh amenities, allinclusive designer wedding services, and a staff committed to assuring your wedding experience is everything you deserve and more.

In addition, we offer full service catering any day of the week, from a small group business lunch to a large wedding. Let us make your event memorable with our delicious meals and appetizers! Contact us for details at 318.858.3200 or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Come dine with us and taste the difference at Village Cuisine!

In 2020, the Venue was voted SB Magazine’s Best Wedding Venue and in 2022, the owners have chosen to introduce their new brand to accurately reflect the needs of today’s couples. You’re invited to experience Venue de LaChute!

Visit us at www.venuedelachute.com or www.facebook.com/ venuedelachute.

Happy

Wedding

Planning

Patterson’s • TOUCH OF ELEGANCE •

Making Dreams Come True!

EVENTS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES!

WEDDINGS, PARTIES, SPECIAL OCCASIONS, AND MORE!

LISA PATTERSON Event Specialist/Planner

CALL US FOR YOUR NEXT SPECIAL OCCASION! • 318-426-8539 • queenlisa2012@yahoo.com SBMAG.NET

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YOUR UNIQUE VISION OUR UNIQUE VENUES

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LUXURY WEDDING EXPERIENCES FEBRUARY 2022

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We are more than a just a venue.

At Sainte Terre, you are surrounded by a team of people with one simple priority - your wedding.. We work to create timeless events filled with joyful memories for families looking for a little less stress on your wedding day.

RSVP T Showca o Our se Even t March 6th!

Now g n i k o o B 3!

2 0 2 r o F

We're thrilled to announce our newest venue, set on over forty acres of sweet meadows and rolling hills. Attend our Showcase Event on March 6th for an exclusive first look, exciting details and package prices. Email to RSVP as space is limited!

E mai l : E ve n ts @s a i n tet er r e .com

•

318 -9 3 6- 95 4 4

•

SBMAG.NET | FEBRUARY 2022 53 www. sa int et er re. com

750 southfield rd shreveport, la 318.698.0075 shreveport@bellabridesmaids.com www.bellabridesmaids.com 54

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The perfect venue for wedding receptions

Open floor plan ballroom adorned with two crystal chandeliers.

Room capacity 500

1600 Sq Ft built in dance floor Beautiful outdoor patio overlooking golf course

1000 Stewart Dr • Shreveport, LA 71106 • (318) 868-6571 SBMAG.NET

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GownBride

A

for every

PIERREMONT MALL 56 FEBRUARY 2022 | SBMAG.NET 4801 LINE AVENUE • (318) 861.0100

SHREVEPORT/BOSSIER E XCLUSIVE CONCIER GE

Jacqueline A. Scott

SHREVEPORT/BOSSIER EXCLUSIVE CONCIERGE IS ALWAYS ON TIME FOR YOUR LUXURY TRANSPORTATION TO YOUR ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS.

Shreveport/Bossier Exclusive Concierge is the premier transportation service for the Shreveport/Bossier area, offering reliable and professional service to passengers. Our Mercedes van and Bentley can transport you to weddings, prom, homecoming, bachelor/bachelorette parties, nights out on the town, and more! We also offer transportation to the Court House!

318.655.8500

www.ShreveportExclusiveConcierge

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Ready When You Are introducing the crown collection The perfect engagement ring settings to compliment our hand-selected diamonds.

Ask about our

special financing options with approved credit

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Voted #1 Wedding Planner in SB Magazine’s Best Of issue, MANDY CATHEY is hailed as an artistic visionary whose ability, uniquely creative talents and outstanding reputation have made her a tremendous success in the lifestyle arena.

Mandy has created a name for herself by taking her passion for designing spectacular events and transforming it into a lifestyle. She continuously exceeds the expected with an unmatched level of inspiration, exquisite sense of style, attention to detail, and ability to transform clients’ visions into unforgettable celebrations which has made her a goto favorite wedding and event planner.

Get Hitched Without A Hitch HIRE A WEDDING PLANNER BASED IN MANY, LOUISIANA SBMAG.NET

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Designing Your Happily Ever After

CALL US TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION 318.865.5136 6505 LINE AVE NO. 67 PIERREMONT COMMON FEBRUARY 2022 | SBMAG.NET 60 SHREVEPORT, LA 71106

www.colonyhouseflowers.com

Shreveport’s Premier Estate Venue

Life’s milestones deserve a unique experience and planning a wedding can be overwhelming. The staff at Venue de LaChute are here to guide you through this complex process. We offer all-inclusive services or the flexibility of an open-vendor policy.

Our in-house designer is committed to making your wedding as unique as you are. You deserve an exceptional wedding encounter. We invite you to experience Venue de LaChute!

Photo Credits: Kaitlin Haley Photography, Three Nails Photography, Meka Bennett Reliford MUA, Glamour & Grace Photography

5949 Yearwood Rd Shreveport, LA 71115 • 318-572-2475

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venuedelachute.com

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8151 Highway 79 South Greenwood, Louisiana (318) 518-7921

• Gorgeous indoor settings for both rehearsal and ceremony • Beautifully appointed banquet rooms • Wedding and event planning services available Register today for your engagement or bridal

• Menu designed to meet all tastes and budgets

portrait photo pass! centenary.edu/photography

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Contact Us! 318.869.5778

Conference and Events Office 2911 Centenary Blvd.

Shreveport, Louisiana 71104

centenary.edu/campusrentals

Make your vision a reality on your wedding day.

Serving bridal parties of all sizes both in salon or on-site. Contact our Bridal Coordinator, Chelsea, at 318.868.1012 ext. 2 for a free consultation.

318.868.1012 • chemistryhairsalon.com

Sandals

HONEYMOONS

THE PERFECT START TO A PERFECT MARRIAGE WHERE LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED Dream Vacations where we make your travel dreams come true!

JUST $98 CAN BOOK ANY SANDALS’ GETAWAY! Call Crissy Parikh for your free vacation planning for honeymoons.

303 Grist Mill Dr Benton, LA

Crissy Parikh 318-347-6944

cparikh.dreamvacations.com/travel/HomePage.html SBMAG.NET

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LEWIS GIFTS’ BRIDES FEBRUARY

Olivia Domangue and Clinton Rasberry Kendall Nelson and Bryan Gibbs

MARCH

Katie Smith and Jack Henson Tracey Frias and John Simpson Madison Montgomery and Aaron Navarre

APRIL

Katherine Herrin and Colin Willoughby Meredith Allen and William Connally Madeline Wagnon and Tyler Mason Caroline Fox and Daniel Hyde Gillian Vanderslice and Robert Crawford Emily Granger and Matthew Kempf Avery Bryan and Joe Bingham Palmer Harbuck and Mitchell Townsend Sasha Pokudina and Bowen McCulloch Samantha Gray and Jake Dean

MAY

Christina Busby and Stafford Johnson Michelle Hansen and Lee Grigsby Whitney Baskin and Andrew Touchstone Kallie Bethard and Tyler Rash

Over 30 Years of Being Your Premier

Bridal Registry Catherine Lewis Hobbs

Register in Store or Online Experienced Registry Consultants to Assist You Free Gift Wrap & Local Delivery Beautiful Online Registry for All of Your Guests to Choose the Perfect Gift!

Visit www.lewisgifts.com To See All That We Have to Offer!

JUNE

Camille Delaune and Nick Hobbs Julia Day and Paul Brown Grace Anne McGill and Cabot Rogers Jennifer Gault and Matthew Farmer Sara Hill and Peyton Moore Allie Marler and Matthew Williams Danielle Dean and Zachary Earnest Caroline Turnage and Thomas Buchanan Martha Williams and Mark Alvarez David Rappaport and Jennifer Rappaport Julia Trunfio and Graeme Weinland Helen Dorsett and John Phillips McNeal Audrey Stephenson and Brayden Hutchinson

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Gifts • Bridal • Biscottis Lewis’ - Your Bridal Registry Destination!

318.868.6700 | 5807 Youree Drive | Shreveport, LA | lewisgifts.com

Your Fairytale Begins Here Say “I Do” at one of the most remarkable locations in Shreveport!

Whether it be an intimate exchange of vows or extravagant celebration, we offer the perfect space to celebrate your wedding day.

The Remington Suite Hotel & Spa 220 Travis Street Shreveport, LA 71101 318.425.5000

Village Cuisine Catering, Café & Gift Baskets

Searching for the perfect caterer to host your special event: bridal showers, baby showers, and rehearsal dinners? Be it a Royal Wedding, or bridal tea party, the Village Cuisine Catering & Cafe, creates a one-of-a-kind event for you and your guests.

Village Cuisine Catering & Cafe offers a charming restaurant atmosphere for your party or off-site catering as well. Village Cuisine serves locally sourced fresh, scrumptious fare for brunch, tea, and dinner. The sandwiches, pastries, pies and cakes are renowned and feature elegant English high-teas.

No matter the occasion, we’ll help you create a great first impression and a lasting memorable one for you and your guests.

CALL US TODAY 318-858-3200 8372 U.S. - 171, Grand Cane, LA

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wedding planner

CHECKLIST

Now that you’ve announced your engagement, it’s time to start planning! ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

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Start a wedding folder Create a budget Determine if you want to hire a wedding planner Research and tour venues Take engagement photos Select venues and reserve your date Schedule hair and makeup artists Select your wedding party Choose wedding colors, theme, etc.

Launch a wedding website Start a bridal registry Start working on the guest list Submit engagement announcement to news outlets Get started on skin care, hair care, and fitness routines Reserve a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests Book the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner venues Finalize guest list Send save-the-date announcement four to six months ahead Shop for a wedding dress Book the officiant Hire a photographer Schedule bridal portrait Book the reception entertainment Hire a florist Hire a caterer Purchase a wedding dress Select groom’s attire Select invitations Plan your honeymoon!

Obtain/renew passports Select bridesmaid dresses Arrange transportation for the wedding party Select the wedding and groom’s cake Mail rehearsal dinner invitations Order signage and programs, menus, seating cards, etc.

Order gifts for bridesmaids and groomsmen Plan ceremony and reception Select music for ceremony and reception dances Review the entertainment’s playlist Plan menu Order wedding favors Order flowers Select people to present toasts at the reception Mail wedding invitations six to eight weeks ahead Order contents for welcome bags Purchase the rings Develop a wedding day schedule Confirm final details with vendors Finalize your vows Meet with the photographer to discuss specific photos Collect the RSVPs Send a final guest list to the caterer/venues Obtain your Marriage License (at least 24 hours ahead in Louisiana) Submit wedding announcement to news outlets Pack for your honeymoon Pay your vendors Have a fabulous rehearsal dinner, wedding, & honeymoon!

Get started on those thank you notes!

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ORDER YOUR WEDDING & PARTY FLOWERS FROM

FLOWERS

& COUNTRY WE’LL ENSURE YOUR SPECIAL DAY IS A BLOOMING SUCCESS!

318-686-3250

CALL US IN ADVANCE TO SET UP AN APPOINTMENT FOR A CONSULTATION. www.flowersandcountryshreveportla.com 9401 Mansfield Rd. Shreveport, LA

Serving the Finest!

WORLD FAMOUS CRAB CLAWS

JUMBO SHRIMP

SERVED WITH CHEF’S FAMOUS REMOULADE

FRESH CRAB CLAWS

IN CHEF ERNEST’S SECRET MARINADE

Signature Style and Taste That ’s Second to None!

1601 SPRING ST, SHREVEPORT 318.226.1325 • ERNESTSORLEANS.COM DINNER HOURS: TUESDAY-SATURDAY 4:30 PM-10:30 PM

ORAL SURGERY ASSOCIATES DR. DAVID C L A R K

O

ral Surgery Associates provides a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgical treatment options. With locations in Shreveport, Bossier, and Ruston, they have served North Louisiana, East Texas and Southern Arkansas for over thirty years. Expertise includes removal of wisdom teeth, corrective jaw surgery, dental implants, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of many conditions of the mouth, face, and jaws.

Dr. David Clark graduated from C.E. Byrd High School in 1997 and received his under-graduate from Louisiana Tech.

• • • • •

DENTAL IMPLANTS BONE GRAFTING WISDOM TEETH FACIAL SURGERY JAW SURGERY

After attending dental school at NYU College of Dentistry, he received training in oral and maxillofacial surgery at Washington Hospital Center. Following his residency, Dr. Clark moved back to Shreveport and joined Oral Surgery Associates in 2011. He is a member of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Louisiana Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and Northwest Louisiana Dental Association. He enjoys golf and spending time with his wife, Katie, and their two daughters, London and Everleigh.

Serving the Oral Health Needs of Northwest Louisiana for over 30 years 2120 Bert Kouns Ind Loop, Suite D Shreveport, LA 71118 318.687.9800

525 Doctors Drive Bossier City, LA 71111 318.747.5791

www.nwlaoralsurgery.com

400 East Vaughn Ave. Ruston, LA 71270 318.251.1111

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8

RULES

MANOLOGY

FOR TEXTING the woman you like.

BY ADAM BAILEY

Take your digital flirting skills up a notch with these simple rules for texting women. Believe it or not, there's a right way to send her a text.

W

elcome to the digital age of dating! Texting allows a man to come up with witty and enticing responses from a comfortable location. It’s easy enough to master and with some basic guidelines—any man should be a pro in no time. Likewise, it can also be nerve-racking to come up with a perfectly good text. Here are some simple points to remember when texting the woman you’re interested in.

1. Focus on Your Goal Do you know the difference between a wish and a goal? A goal has a plan and an end date for accomplishment, and a wish is just a hopeless daydream. So when texting your crush, in addition to keeping the ball rolling, you might want to decide on asking her out eventually. Therefore, just like in any

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other interaction, a back-and-forth text conversation can take on different turns on different topics. And while it's a good practice to take your time, endlessly beating around the bush, wishing for the woman to go out with you miraculously is not a winning strategy if you want to get a date with her.

2. Keep Things Light Women love to see their phone buzz and read a text that’s cute, intriguing, and makes them laugh. But remember, don’t get too personal over text—it isn’t worth it and should be saved for in-person or phone conversations. Tell her something funny, not your life story.

3. Make Her Laugh Sharing funny things with a girl shows her that you have a sense of humor and you like spreading it around. Who doesn't like a person who makes them laugh?

4. Flirt, Flirt, and Flirt Some More Flirting over text is one of the most important things you can do to keep a woman interested—flirtatious texts are a great way to generate sparks. Trust and comfort have to build over time, but light and teasing messages will keep her

S

on her toes until then. Just be short and sweet. If you don't let your soft side out every once in a while, she won’t be interested in you for very long.

5. Be Patient Replying with three texts for every one she sends shows you’re too eager and too invested. You shouldn’t over-think it, but go easy and feel out the pace of the conversation. If she takes an hour to respond, just give it a few minutes before messaging her back.

pletely by surprise with this courtship technique that dates back to the 1980s. Call her! Yes, texting is crazy useful and convenient, but it wouldn't be wise to rely on one form of communication. If you can get her to send a smiley face over text using only a fraction of your ability to communicate, think about the myriad of feelings you can give to her with a phone call.

6. Avoid Improper Grammar Well-written text messages make you look mature and intelligent. Sloppiness is not only a turn-off but also a potential deal breaker. Some shortcuts like “np at all” are okay but “can’t wait 2 c u 2nite” borders on immaturity. Always double-check your spelling, grammar, and auto correct before you press send.

7. Use Emoticons Wisely A smile or wink is great for adding emphasis or being flirtatious. However, using them in every other sentence can be overkill and distracting from what you’re trying to say. Sticking to no more than one emoticon per message is usually a good idea.

8. Don’t Forget to Call Her Do you want to know how to get your crush to instantly like you? Catch her com-

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Some superheroes wear capes…

SOME WEAR BANDAIDS. Our kids deserve to be protected, too.

THE COVID-19 VACCINE IS SAFE FOR CHILDREN. The CDC has recommended that all children ages 5 and up get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Additionally, the CDC recommends that moderately or severely immunocompromised children ages 5-11 receive an additional primary (third dose) of vaccine 28 days after their second shot. The vaccines protect children as young as 5 years old from severe COVID-19 outcomes like hospitalization and death, and the vaccine protects children from current circulating variants.

When your child gets vaccinated against COVID-19, they have a better chance at staying in school and participating in the activities they enjoy.

“This vaccine for children has passed rigorous clinical trials and is safe – just like the other common vaccines we recommend our children receive.”

DR. WANDA THOMAS PROFESSOR OF PEDIATRICS, LSU Health Shreveport

“These vaccines are as safe and as effective as any vaccines we’ve ever had for any disease.”

DR. MARK KLINE PHYSICIAN-IN-CHIEF AND PEDIATRICIAN, Children’s Hospital New Orleans

GET THE FACTS: visit ldh.la.gov/kidsvax or call the Vaccine Hotline at 1-855-453-0774.

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BY DR. MINDIE KAVANAUGH

CANCER PREVENTION: YES, 20 TO 40 YEAR-OLDS, I’M TALKING TO YOU, TOO INCREASING AWARENESS OF COLON CANCER SCREENING AND PREVENTION IS A NATIONAL HEALTHCARE PRIORITY. As a doctor who primarily treats colorectal cancer, I see first-hand the age of patients at the time of diagnosis is becoming younger. Research supports this observation, with the American Cancer Center reporting that from 2012-2016 the incidence rate of adults under age 50 diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer rose by 2% each year. Additionally, Louisiana has the fourth highest incidence rate of colorectal cancer in the nation.

COMBATING COLON CANCER Research is ongoing to determine the exact cause behind the decreasing age of colorectal cancer patients. Until we are certain of the reason, it is important to look at two tools available to combat colon cancer: screening and prevention. Screening involves administering a test to detect precancerous lesions or cancer before signs or symptoms are present. Prevention is acting now to lower the risk of getting cancer.

SCREENING The main screening options for colon cancer are colonoscopy and at-home stool testing. Many people hear these options and immediately dismiss the idea due to fear, embarrassment, or cost barriers, but the truth is these routine exams save lives. So, how do you know if and which screening is appropriate for you? The first step is to learn about your current health risks; knowledge is power.

If possible, find out your family history. Here are a few questions to start with: Did anyone in your family have cancer? What type of cancer? What was the age at diagnosis? Did anyone have colon polyps?

What age? Any illness of the colon in the family?

The second step is to speak to your primary care doctor. The above information will help your primary care physician suggest when screening is nec-

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Usually in the early stages of colon cancer there are no signs or symptoms.

Medical illustration of Colorectal Cancer-Polyp: peterschreiber.media

“No one is too young to discuss when cancer screening is needed.

DO NOT WAIT UNTIL IT IS TOO LATE.”

reduce colon cancer risk, such as managing your diet and physical exercise. Conversely, some lifestyle habits, such as drinking or smoking, can increase the risk. It is important to speak with your primary care physician about prevention methods that could be right for you.

EDUCATION & AWARENESS In addition to screening and prevention, one crucial step we can take as a community to lower the risk of colon cancer is to change the current fear and misinformation concerning colon cancer screenings. Talk to your doctor to find out when you should begin screening and what you can do to prevent colon cancer, but do not stop there. Educate someone else – such as a friend, family, neighbor, or colleague – or challenge someone to incorporate a cancer prevention method into their everyday routine. Openly discussing colon cancer screening and prevention will lead to less misinformation and less fear.

essary and discuss which test is most appropriate. No one is too young to discuss when cancer screening is needed. Do not wait until it is too late.

March is National Colorectal Awareness Month and I challenge each of you to be a part of changing the cancer landscape.

PREVENTION Just as important as screening is colon cancer prevention.

Prevention can be started at any age and cancer prevention methods coincide with other healthy habits. For colon cancer specifically, there are multiple lifestyle factors that

Dr. Mindie Kavanaugh is board certified in Internal Medicine and serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor at LSU Health Shreveport and practices at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport.

Childhood comes and goes in a blink.

We’re here through the stages of your life, with the strength of the cross, the protection of the shield. The Right Card. The Right Care.

01MK7641 11/21

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SPEC IAL

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SPAC ES

BY ADAM BAILEY

O

pen ceilings, exposed brick, cement floors—with more parking for bikes than cars. Don’t forget to add an oversized slide or a ping-pong table.

No, it’s not the warehouses or art galleries that downtown Shreveport has long been known for. Rather, a wave of office projects that double as adaptive renovations of historic commercial buildings that is now fueling the growth of creative space in downtown Shreveport.

Ask yourself this. Why shouldn’t an office space be just as comfortable as someone’s living space? It is, after all, the 21st century, and employers are becoming softer with their office policies, allowing workers to add their own special touches to their workspace environment. Think about it—over the past 15-20 years, workspace design has undergone seismic changes since the halcyon days of the suburban corporate office park. In 2022, the open-floorplan office is the gold standard as the workplace arrangement du jour. Never before have former factories, warehouses and other fringe urban spaces been getting turned into modern offices at breakneck speeds. And, yes, even here in downtown Shreveport.

From the 1990s through the early 2000s, office complexes on Youree Drive and Line Avenue long overshadowed the ‘standard’ office-type development within Shreveport.

However, starting as early as the 2010s, a resurgence began in historic building renovations in the downtown area which started altering the current development cycle.

From an old, gutted paint-and-wallpaper shop to a grocery store to an oilfield equipment business—unique office spaces are making it fun to go to work each day by creating an environment that is reflective of the business’ owners, as well as inviting for their clients and customers. Take a look at these three adaptive reuse projects that show how a little creativity can reinvent any space.

Kevin Bryan, Architect—712 Texas Street In 2012, architect Kevin Bryan personally began witnessing the transformation of Shreveport’s downtown core when he bought a building on Texas Street. “People like historic buildings with character that don’t seem generic,” says Bryan. “They have authenticity. There’s a story about the building, and always a fun place to work at.” The building, which now serves as his architectural studio/office, was a former paint-and-wallpaper shop.

Masterminded himself, this office renovation is a classic example of a revamped-and-adaptive, 90-year-old building. Elements of the original structure are visible throughout—as in the exposed-brick walls, steel columns and exposed floors—all living in harmony with a new storefront, industrial-sized fans, and other modernized touches.

There is even room for people watching, as Bryan puts it, as the inside office space seamlessly extends onto a covered patio and allows for great viewing of any downtown street festival (i.e., Louisiana Film Prize). For Bryan, the trick was going beyond formulaic design features to focus on how the space is used.

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after hour socials and other community events, such as the monthly Artwalk, on which Wieland is a regular stop.

Charley Kingery, the senior business development manager for Wieland’s Shreveport office, said the open-office concept was inspired by their national headquarters in Lansing, Michigan. “There are no doors, basically, and we find that it creates a more collaborative work space,” he said. “You can reach the person and visit with them easily in a space right by each other, and you can have privacy when needed in our quiet rooms.” When the staff needs a little break from the grind, they can play a few rounds of ping-pong on the pingpong table located in the front of the office space.

Wieland Construction—528 Commerce Street In the case of Wieland Construction’s downtown office building, Bryan’s team decided to pay homage to the original Santa Maria Produce Store that the building once housed. “It’s not just about the architectural details,” Bryan noted. “It’s about making them relevant.”

Wieland’s new office was a renovation of one of Shreveport’s oldest buildings, and is located only one block from Shreveport’s downtown Riverfront. The building sat vacant for many years and formerly housed Sci-Port before their expansion into the new, much larger facility on Clyde Fant Parkway.

Bryan worked extensively with Wieland in documenting the existing space and developing a floorplan, material layout and various furniture arrangements in order to ensure their new office would utilize the open floorplan they wanted, without hindering the capacity for individual workspaces to feel private. All of these design considerations were balanced against ensuring that the building’s historic characteristics were left intact and celebrated where possible—such as the salvaged 1960’s mural of John F. Kennedy that was discovered behind an old shaft wall, or the uncovered original fixtures from the grocery which are now used to hang coats and hard hats. An old bar area from the building’s days as Jodie’s Place was transformed into a coffee bar and kegerator (with beer on tap) for

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“How do you take care of these historic buildings and move it into this century?” Bryan asked while critiquing his Wieland-renovation project. “Part of that is to embrace the past while designing for the future—and to do that you often need to take the project to its bones and expose it all. Then, and only then, you’re able to give the modern workforce the creative space they’re looking for.”

Vintage Design Group and iArchitecture—417 Lake Street Vintage Design Group and iArchitecture —two separate architect firms that share the same office space on Lake Street—have an oversized big orange slide beside the stairs in their office space (as well as a convertible conference room which was converted from two large garage doors).

“Everyone that has come in seems to like the space. Some are more amused than others,” says Jeff Spikes, principal architect of iArchitecture. “The reason for the slide was basically to set our tone. It’s just part of what makes it a neat place to work. I wanted everyone to feel like it’s their space and to be comfortable and at ease because I feel like a tense workplace is an unproductive workplace.”

“It’s definitely an attention-getter. It’s definitely unique,” adds Jason Cram, architect and owner of Vintage Design Group. “I was hesitant about it to begin with, but it’s paid for itself just in the attention it’s received.”

Cram believes that every space in downtown Shreveport has potential—and just because you can’t envision what can be done with an empty industrial building, historic landmark, or blighted parking garage right off the bat doesn’t mean it won’t work for a new use, whether it’s retail, office, hospitality, or something else unique.

any street in downtown. Turn the corner and see what you’ll find,” he said. “To Shreveport’s delight, it’s rarely the same experience from one adaptive-reuse project to the next.”

Both Cram and Spikes agree that their unique approach to their office’s design, along with the tenant mix along Lake Street, showcased the full glory and potential of the office market in downtown Shreveport. According to Spikes, the marketplace that has been created on Lake Street—The Sanctuary Arts School and Glass Studio, The Agora Borealis, Good Granoly and, of course, iArchitecture and Vintage Design Group—is a thriving hub where local entrepreneurs get ample opportunity to set up their business and thrive. “The best thing about Lake Street is that seems to be a block-long guild of like-minded business owners,” says Spikes. “Every one of them are generation-X’ers who all get along and have fun.”

Clearly, there is a sense of pride and accomplishment in what the downtown market is slowly (but surely) evolving into—especially when it comes to the renovation of old, historic buildings. Cram added, “All occupants in downtown should feel a sense of pride and accomplishment in what this microcosm of maker spirit on Lake Street provides to the community.” He defines the rejuvenated aesthetic of downtown Shreveport’s ‘unique’ office spaces as a “sense of chaos,” but in the most delightful way. “Just walk down

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SB GOOD TO KNOW

BY SEVA MAY BOSSIER SCHOOLS SELECTS 2021-22 DISTRICT STUDENTS OF THE YEAR Bossier Schools Superintendent Mitch Downey and a cadre of educators surprised Christian Willis, Ella Sims and Jayden Toussaint with news they were selected as the district’s Students of the Year, the highest honor bestowed on students at the parish level. Each of these academically excelled and remarkably talented students are the epitome of excellence in their own right. Jayden Toussaint is a senior at Bossier High School and will represent the parish as High School Student of the Year. Ella Sims is an eighth grader at Benton Middle School and the Bossier Parish Middle School Student of the Year. Christian Willis is in fifth grade and a proud Haughton Elementary Buccaneer. “Each year our district Students of the Year amaze me by their drive and leadership and these three certainly fill that bill,” Downey said. “We are incredibly proud of these students and confident they will represent us well as they move on to the next level of the state competition.”

GREATER SHREVEPORT CHAMBER HONORS BUSINESS LEADERS OF THE YEAR The Greater Shreveport Chamber honored long standing businessmen and philanthropists Glenn and Chris Kinsey as the Chamber’s Business Leaders of the Year for 2021 at its 112th Annual Banquet, presented by Willis Knighton Health System. Each year since 1978, the Chamber has recognized local business leaders who bring together superior business acumen with significant contributions to the development of the greater Shreveport community. “The Chamber is delighted to honor Glenn and Chris Kinsey as our 2021 Business Leaders of the Year”, said Dr. Timothy Magner, President of the Greater Shreveport Chamber. “Glenn and Chris are the third generation of the Kinsey family to take up the mantle of business leadership here in Shreveport. Their business acumen, strategic focus and global investments have developed businesses and enhanced communities both here and abroad.”

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SWEPCO SEEKS APPROVAL FOR NEW LOUISIANA SOLAR PROJECT Southwestern Electric Power Co., an American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP) company, announced plans to add 72.5 megawatts (MW) of solar energy by Dec. 1, 2024, through a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Rocking R Solar, LLC (Rocking R), an affiliate of D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI). The proposal supports SWEPCO’s long-term plan of increasing its use of more clean energy sources, such as solar and wind. In a January 28 filing, SWEPCO seeks approval of the proposal from the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). The proposal is also subject to review by the Arkansas Public Service Commission (APSC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Regulatory filings in Texas will be made at a later date. The project – named Rocking R Solar Facility – will be located approximately 20 miles north of Shreveport, La., near Hosston. The new facility will help fulfill SWEPCO’s commitment made to the LPSC in May 2020 to pursue up to 200 MWs of solar generation in its service territory.

ADAM BASS ASSUMES BOSSIER PARISH SCHOOL BOARD PRESIDENCY Adam Bass, an active businessman and community member who served as Vice President last year of the Bossier Parish School Board, assumed the 2022 Presidency at the January 20 School Board meeting. “As a husband to a Bossier Parish educator and a father to three Bossier Parish students, it is important for me to highlight the fact that every decision that I make for you and your family, I also make for the people I love the most on Earth,” Bass said.

GREATER SHREVEPORT CHAMBER NAMES ALLYSON WALKER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, COMMUNICATIONS, AND PUBLIC RELATIONS The Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Allyson Walker has been appointed as the Chamber’s Director of Marketing, Communications, and Public Relations. Walker, a Shreveport native and Northwestern State University graduate, is a local marketing and communications professional who brings large market, small market and global experience to the role. Walker was most recently the Marketing Manager for the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission where she supported the more than 100 events hosted by the Sports Commission each year.

TERNIUM USA MAKES A $15,000 DONATION TO SHRINERS HOSPITAL FOR CHILDREN IN SHREVEPORT. Ternium, a leading steel production company in Latin America and the United States, demonstrates its commitment to helping communities through actions that have a positive impact.

Ternium USA recently donated $15,000 to Shriners Hospital

for Children in Shreveport. Shriners provides highly specialized medical care to children regardless of a family’s possibility to pay.

In 1922, thousands gathered to witness the placing of the cornerstone of the first Shriners Children’s hospital, in Shreveport, Louisiana. What began as a single hospital is now a world-renowned and beloved healthcare system with locations in three countries.

In addition, outreach programs help Shriners Children provide hope and healing to more children in more places.

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............................................................................................................................................................ MORE NEWS

REPROGRAPHICS, ART/PHOTOGRAPHY PRIN BUSINESS CARDS, BANNERS, SCANNING DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT AND MORE! BOY SCOUTS TO HONOR CHASTAIN, PRATOR, AND CENTENARY COLLEGE

The Norwela Council, BSA will be hosting their American Values Luncheon on March 17, 2022, Merritt Chastain, Sheriff Steve Prator, and Centenary College of Louisiana will be honored for their community service. Merritt Chastain is a respected attorney specializing in real estate law, estate planning, and business law. He serves on the boards of many area non-profit organizations. Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator was elected to a sixth term in October 2019. Centenary College of Louisiana is the oldest educational institution in the state being chartered in 1825 and the 43rd oldest in the country.

THINK BIG.

Willis-Knighton Medical Center has been recognized by the American College of Cardiology in the & Best Hospitals issue of U.S. News & World Report as one of the top health systems in the United States for providing top quality care to heart patients in 2021. Willis-Knighton is one of only 87 health systems nationwide to be included.

NONSURGICAL REMOVAL OF AORTIC VALVE TUMOR AT WILLIS-KNIGHTON BELIEVED TO BE THE FIRST IN THE WORLD Three doctors at Willis-Knighton joined to perform what they believe is the world’s first nonsurgical removal of a fibroelastoma attached to the aortic valve. Doctors found no reference to this type of procedure while searching options to help the patient. The lead cardiologist, Joseph L. Fredi, MD, FACC, with Pierremont Cardiology, was assisted by Boshra Louka, MD, FACC, FSCAI, of Willis-Knighton Cardiology. The two Willis-Knighton Physician Network interventional cardiologists were supported by Syed Mehmood, MD, FACS, of Red River Cardiovascular Surgeons. The minimally invasive procedure at the WK Heart & Vascular Institute hybrid suite was performed on a 77-year-old patient who was not a candidate for cardiac surgery due to multiple severe comorbid conditions.

NORTHWEST LOUISIANA MEDICAL SOCIETY HONORS PHILLIP ROSEMAN, MD, FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE Phillip Rozeman, MD, a founding physician of Willis-Knighton Cardiology, is the recipient of the 59th annual Distinguished Service Award given by the Northwest Louisiana Medical Society. The award recognizes individuals for their outstanding contribution in medicine. In addition to being a founder and president of Willis-Knighton Cardiology and Minden Heart and Vascular Center, Dr. Rozeman is past Chief of Staff of Willis-Knighton and Minden Medical Center and previous president of the Shreveport Medical Society. Dr. Rozeman currently serves on the board of the Louisiana Committee of 100, Louisiana Association of Business, Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, Louisiana Policy Institute for Children, LSUS and Bossier Parish Community College Foundations, and the MagFEBRUARY 2022

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OCHSNER LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT PHYSICIANS HONORED BY NORTHWEST LOUISIANA PEDIATRIC SOCIETY

THINK SMALL. We

WILLIS-KNIGHTON HEART & VASCULAR INSTITUTE RECOGNIZED AS “BEST HOSPITAL”

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nolia K-12 Charter School. He has been named Business Leader of the Year by both the Shreveport and Minden Chambers of Commerce and is a member of the Northwest Louisiana Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame. He received the John Miciotto Healthcare Lifetime Achievement Award from the Bossier Chamber of Commerce and the “Spirit of Martin Luther King Award” from the City of Shreveport.

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The Northwest Louisiana Pediatric Society honored several Ochsner LSU physicians on December 22 with awards commemorating the outstanding commitment providers have in caring for the children in the Northwest Louisiana community.

Dr. Majed Jeroudi was presented with the Joseph Bocchini, Jr. Award for his displays of Humanism in Pediatrics. Dr. Jeroudi, a pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist, has spent his life caring for the special needs of children of North Louisiana who have the uncommon diagnosis of cancer or pediatric blood disease.

Dr. Ryan Jones, pediatric cardiologist, received the Dr. William H. Haynie, Sr. award, which commemorates the recipient for the years of service and commitment to children of the Northwest Louisiana region.

LOCAL BUSINESS LEADERS GIVE $1.2 MILLION TO LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT’S CENTER OF EXCELLENCE FOR EMERGING VIRAL THREATS Dewey and Gigi Corley through their Chaparral Foundation, together with Margaret Place Properties, Inc., Frances and William Comegys, III, and the Family of Aaron and Peggy Selber, have committed a combined $1.2 million to establish the first endowment for LSU Health Shreveport’s Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT). This is the largest private gift in the CEVT’s history. The group presented the gift to leadership of the CEVT and LSU Health Shreveport at a press conference at LSUHS. “Support through gifts like this enhance our capability to address current and future viral threats and elevate LSU Health Shreveport’s position as a national leader in viral research,” said LSU Health Shreveport Vice Chancellor for Research, Chris Kevil, PhD. LSUS STUDENTS AND FACULTY EARN MULTIPLE AWARDS

LSUS students and faculty received multiple awards at the 20th Annual Louisiana Biomedical Research Network Meeting this past weekend. Undergraduates, graduates, and faculty of the Northwest Louisiana university won across several categories. In addition to five LSUS winners, high-school student Raj Letchuman, who was mentored by LSUS’s Dr. Elahe Mahdavian, won the High School poster category, and Prerana Ramesh, who is currently an LSUHSC-S student and an LSUS alumna, worked with Dr. Urska Cvek and Dr. Marjan Trutschl on her award-winning project.

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LSUS CHANCELLOR APPROVES FUNDING FOR SCIENCE RESEARCH ANNEX The LSUS Chancellor has approved a proposal from the College of Arts and Sciences to invest $425,000 to build a Science Research Annex at LSU Shreveport. Envisaged as a multi-purpose space, the 1600 square-foot Annex will be designed to transform according to research needs as they evolve. It will have the capacity to house a variety of projects that cannot be accommodated in existing campus laboratory space.

SHREVEPORT CHAMBER ANNOUNCES BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 2022 The Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the team of local business professionals who will lead the organization in 2022.

BOSSIER CHAMBER ANNOUNCES BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 2022 The Chamber welcomes three new members to the Board of Directors in 2022 while four members of the board have completed their terms of service and have rolled off the board at the end of 2021.

The new board members will be installed at the Annual Meeting on Feb. 2, 2022.

BOSSIER CHAMBER NAMES BUSINESS AWARD WINNERS On February 2, the Bossier Chamber of Commerce honored top business and community leaders at the 74th Annual Meeting, sponsored by Barksdale Federal Credit Union.

Dillas Quesadillas was named Bossier Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year for adding two new locations and 100 jobs to the local economy in 2021 as well as giving away more than $100,000 to community organizations.

Patrick Gullatt was named Bossier Chamber’s 2021 Business Person of the Year for his work in growing Barksdale Federal Credit Union as CEO and also their continued work in the community.

Cyber Innovation Center was named Bossier Chamber’s 2021 Business of the Year for their continued return on investment in the community, helping secure $154.5 million in new business sales for the region, $148.2

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million in new household earnings in the two-parish region, and 2,651 permanent jobs in the region.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR LOCAL BOSSIER PARISH HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATING SENIORS The Tiffany Strong Scholarship Foundation is giving away another $12,000 in the form of 12 -$1,000 College Scholarships to 12 deserving Bossier Parish High School. Seniors who are graduating May of 2022 and attending a Louisiana college or technical school in the Fall of 2022. Apply at www.Tiffanystrongfoundation.com by March 31, 2022.

NATIONAL ORGANIZATION CHOOSES LOCAL LEADER FOR PROGRAM Lydia Earhart, Director of Marketing and Community Relations at The Glen, has been selected as to be a part of the 2022 Larry Minnix Leadership Academy program through LeadingAge, a national organization in aging services. Earhart joined The Glen in

2016 after a lengthy career in journalism. She has been instrumental in the planning, marketing and sales of Redbrook at The Glen, the community’s newest option for independent living.

LOUISIANA FILM PRIZE RETURNS TO $50,000 GRAND PRIZE FOR 2022 Louisiana Film Prize is kicking off its eleventh year in 2022 and returns with the ability for competing filmmakers to win up to $50,000. Filmmakers from around the world are invited to submit their short film– 5 to 15 minutes in length– the main requirement being that the film is shot in the state of Louisiana. If the winning film is shot in Caddo Parish, the filmmaker gets $50,000 – the largest cash prize in the world for a short narrative film. If the film is shot anywhere else in Louisiana, the film wins $25,000 - the second largest cash prize for a narrative short film. Film submissions are due July 12, 2022. The top 20 Film Prize finalists will be announced August 9, 2022. Prize Fest will take place October 13-23, 2022.

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KING Cake Shots & Parade time cocktails

T

he KING CAKE SHOTS replicate all the taste of a traditional King Cake. A cake-flavored vodka forms the base of the cocktail and a cream liqueur gives it a luscious mouthfeel. The shooters are poured into shot glasses rimmed with gold, green, and purple sugars for a festive and colorful touch. To make them even more irresistible, each one is topped with whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg. Enjoy & Happy Mardi Gras!

KING CAKE SHOTS INGREDIENTS ζ ζ ζ ζ ζ ζ

Gold, green, and purple sprinkle sugar, for rimming 1 1/2 ounces Irish cream liqueur, plus more for rimming 1 1/2 ounces cake vodka 1 1/2 ounces cinnamon schnapps Whipped cream, for garnish Ground nutmeg, for garnish

STEPS

1.

2.

3.

4.

Rim the glasses with sugar, dip the rim of 1 shot glass in a shallow dish of the cream liqueur. Let the excess drip off while the glass is still upside down.

Quickly dip the wet edge of the glass in a dish of the colored sugar. Ensure you get a nice, even coat all the way around. Tap off any excess sugar. Repeat with 2 more shot glasses.

In a cocktail shaker, pour the vodka, cream liqueur, and cinnamon schnapps. Fill with ice and shake well.

Strain into the prepared shot glasses. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg. Laissez les bons temps rouler!

PARADE TIME COCKTAIL INGREDIENTS ζ ζ ζ ζ ζ

Gold, green, and purple sprinkle sugar, for rimming 2 ounces of King Cake Vodka (or use 2 ounces vanillaflavored vodka plus 2 drops almond extract) 1/2 ounce of Grand Marnier 1/2 ounce of Baileys Irish Cream Ground Cinnamon, for garnish

STEPS

1.

2.

3.

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Rim the glass with sugar, dip the rim of glass in a shallow dish of the cream liqueur. Let the excess drip off while the glass is still upside down.

Quickly dip the wet edge of the glass in a dish of the colored sugar. Ensure you get a nice, even coat all the way around. Tap off any excess sugar.

Put a small pile each of green, purple, and gold sanding sugar on a plate, keeping them separate. Moisten the rim of a martini glass, then press part of the rim into each colored sugar. Combine the vodka, Grand Marnier and Baileys in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into the prepared glass. Dust with cinnamon.

Mardi Gras

kingcake crescent Bites

T

hese MARDI GRAS KING CAKE CRESCENT BITES are easy to make and are a delicious dessert for the Mardi Gras season!

Yummy crescent filled with a cream cheese filling and topped with glaze.

CRESCENT INGREDIENTS

ʄ ʄ ʄ ʄ

1 can of crescent dough sheet 1/2 cup of sugar 8 oz cream cheese 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

GLAZE INGREDIENTS ʄ ʄ ʄ

1 cup powdered sugar 2 tbsp. of milk Gold, green, and purple sprinkle sugar

INSTRUCTIONS

1.

Spread out your crescent dough sheet on parchment paper.

2. Slice dough sheet into four even strips crosswise.

3. Cream together cream cheese, vanilla extract, and sugar.

4. Divide the cream cheese icing between the crescent strips and spread the long way evenly.

5. Roll up the dough.

6. Spread apart each crescent evenly and bake at 350° for 12 to 15 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool.

7.

Mix together powdered sugar and milk until creamy.

8. Spread glaze with a brush on top of the King Cake crescent bites and sprinkle with purple, yellow, and green sugars.

9. Chill at least 1 hour. Keep refrigerated until ready to eat.

10. Enjoy & Happy Mardi Gras!

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SB EVENTS CREATE YOUR OWN GLASS BLOWING ART WORKSHOPS Venue: Sanctuary Glass Studio Date: Recurring weekly Time: Wednesday–Thursday 9–5 Friday–Saturday 12–8 Sunday 9–5 Price: Contact the studio for pricing Info: sanctuaryglassstudio.com Visit the Sanctuary Glass Studio and create your own glass artwork such as hummingbird feeders, wine glasses, pilsner beer glasses, decorative bowls, olive oil decanters, paperweights, flowers, and more. You heat the glass, gather the color and blow the glass and an artist assists you in creating a one-of-a-kind work of art.

MORGAN WALLEN: THE DANGEROUS TOUR REBA MCENTIRE AT THE BROOKSHIRE GROCERY ARENA Venue: Date: Time: Price:

Brookshire Grocery Arena February 26th 8 pm Visit Ticketmaster for pricing

Country music fans, rejoice! Reba is bringing her much anticipated 2022 tour to Brookshire Grocery Arena on Saturday, February 26th, 2022.

SHREVEPORT’S PREMIER FLOTATION THERAPY STUDIO

Venue: Date: Time: Price:

Brookshire Grocery Arena March 4th 7 pm Visit Ticketmaster for pricing

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SHREVEPORT GARDEN STUDY CLUB TO HOST BRUNO DUARTO Venue: Date: Time: Price:

East Ridge Country Club March 15th 10 am $75, limited seating, jchidlow1@gmail.com

The Shreveport Garden Study Club, a member of the Garden Clubs of America, will host its biennial floral design symposium, “Bouquets” with a floral design demonstration featuring internationally acclaimed designer Bruno Duarte.

AN EVENING WITH BOB DYLAN – “ROUGH AND ROWDY WAYS” Venue: Date: Time: Price:

Brookshire Grocery Arena March 18th 8 pm Visit Ticketmaster for pricing

REMAINING MARDI GRAS PARADES 2022 Krewe of Centaur Parade Saturday, February 19, 2022 Downtown to duck pond route, 3 p.m. kreweofcentaur.org Krewe of Gemini Parade Saturday, February 26, 2022 Downtown to duck pond route, 3 p.m. kreweofgemini.com Krewe of Highland Parade Sunday, February 27, 2022 - Highland Historic District, 2 p.m. mardigraskreweofhighland.com

FAT TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2022 photo sbfunguide.com

SOUTHERN HILLS DOG PARK COMING SOON!

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He travels an eight state region and now he is here in Shreveport! Jeffrey has a true passion for design, the creation of beauty, and experience in all aspects of the process.

He is a Member of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art (ICAA Louisiana).

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AND ANOTHER THING…

Most things considered, it’s confounding that the question of which gender is the “weaker sex” remains up for discussion. My team retired that trophy a long, long time ago. Females are better at navigating, conversating, calculating, laminating, legislating, and procreating, an area in which we are woefully inadequate.

As this issue suggests, it’s not a fair fight anymore. Which is fine.

I sort of like being Number 2. (Wait … did that come out wrong?)

who mind their

BUSINESS B

W

hat I know about business and the business world you could put in a hollow pecan shell and have room left over for a cashew. I know even less about women.

But any male or female being honest would understand that the females featured in this month’s SB Magazine have earned their recognition and our thanks as their neighbors

BY TEDDY ALLEN for taking well-thought-out risks, for persevering, for believing, for getting up early and staying up late when the day or night demanded, and for building businesses that make our twin cities and our area better.

All across the business spectrum, they shine. No job too big or too small. No challenge that can’t be met with some want-to, elbow grease, and cool, calculated thinking.

Decades ago, a popular advertisement was Virginia Slims and “You’ve got your own cigarette now, baby. You’ve come a long, long way.” But wasn’t having “your own cigarette” setting the bar kind of low?

The decades since say yes. Now “you’ve” got your own corporation, your own hours, your own portfolio, your own employees, your own business suit closet and your own bikini drawer. Who says you have to give up one for the other?

We’ve all come a long, long way. Thank goodness.

Back in those late-1960s, early-’70s Virginia Slims days, there were few female business owners in my little Carolina hometown. Mrs. Kay ran Kay’s Hair Here.

Mrs. Ernestine presided over her backyard Little Red Schoolhouse.

That was about it.

Then again, there were few business owners at all. Most business owners were called “farmers.” And all of them had wives, and none of the husbands outworked the women — and these were hard-working men. I’ve seen up close who really kept the wheels turning, kept the family machinery going, and it wasn’t the guys in khaki pants and Penzoil caps, as wonderful as they all were.

Most everyone in my professional world today is my boss. Of my five immediate bosses, three are girl bosses, including at SB. (Hello, Elizabeth!) They feel and see things differently, in a good sense, from the way I’m wired. I’m not saying the girls are better bosses than the boys, but they sure aren’t worse strictly because of gender. They smell a lot better, I’ll tell you that…

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Harder still to understand why women would have anything to do with us at all. We are, after all, only guys. Which isn't saying much.

Early on I learned a hard lesson: guys mean playtime, girls mean business.

It was on the Lake View Elementary playground where Cathy Sims, Southern country cute around age 8, kicked me in the shin with her pointy-toe black cowboy boot for a reason I can’t remember. I can remember the pain and the eggplant-colored bruise. So it figures that in 7th grade she would become my girlfriend, the only one I ever had in pre-teen years, and that was for only a few kick-free weeks.

Naturally, I’d thought things were going well. Sigh … this was only the beginning of a long and painful education in the ways of the boy-girl world.

Women should have the spotlight. They deserve it. They’ve earned it. We guys are rhythm guitar and background vocals, if not the roadies. You need roadies to have a show, but no one’s going to buy a ticket to see you set up the stage. Good roadies understand their place and work with their heads down.

Long after the Cathy Sims Incident, it became obvious not only that girls mean business, but also that girls grow into women.

Thank goodness they do. And to you, we say this: No matter your occupation, thank you for taking care of business and, sincerely, thank you for taking care of us, the Number 2s. We can sure use the help.

Teddy Allen is an award-winning columnist and graduate of Louisiana Tech, where he works as a writer and broadcaster.

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