SB WEDDINGS / WOMEN IN BUSINESS / MARDI GRAS / DOWNTOWN HOME!

EDITOR

Tis the season of love. And Mardi Gras.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, so it’s time to grab some chocolate or wine or roses or dinner reservations at one of the great dining spots in the SBC. Inside there’s a story with interesting facts about Valentine’s Day (which happens to be the same day I met my husband)!

Speaking of marriage, check out our special Wedding section to help couples find details on wedding venues and vendors for their Big Day.

You’ve got to check out the home feature – a fascinating rebirth of a downtown Shreveport office building, sure to provide inspiration to others.

See the Mardi Gras photos, recipes, and event schedules to go with the story on things you may not know about Mardi Gras and Carnivale.

We celebrate all local women business owners in the SBC and you can read detailed profiles in the Women in Business special section. For this issue we interviewed the owner of Jolie Blonde Gifts and the owner of Vegans on the Run for some insight on running their respective businesses and how they began.

Enjoy and best winter wishes,

Elizabeth Beard Deal Executive Editor

PUBLISHER

G. Byron May

OWNERS

G. Byron May

Seva May

Noble Feldman

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Elizabeth Beard Deal

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Hailey Lawson

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Teddy Allen

Scott “Scooter” Anderson

Adam Bailey

Ursula Brantley

Arshpreet Kaur, MD

Hailey Lawson

Seva May

Ellen Nicholson

PHOTOGRAPHY

Hailey Lawson

Debbie Henry

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Ryan Watson

SALES MANAGER

Keyle Cavalier

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Stephanie Pringle

Laura Prissy Scott

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Volume 24, Issue 2

SPECIAL SECTIONS

2nd Annual Battle of the Bags Cornhole Tournament

1. Charlie Spraggins, Christian Lara, Shawn Jenkins, Jonathan Odom, and Mike Martinez 2. Chris Robinson, Chief of Fire Prevention and Jeff Dixon, Retired Fire Captain 3. Serah and Corey Norris 4. Kyle and Meaghan Willis with baby, Alexandria 5. Seventh Tap Brewing Project Owners: Jose Cardenas, Colby Miller, and Samuel Norton 6. Michael Jenkins with S-B Sports Commission Members Matthew Hammock, Sara Nelms, Cicely Parson, Seventh Tap Brewing Project Owners Colby Miller, Jose Cardenas, and Samuel Norton and Shilpan Patel

Bossier Chamber 75th Gala

1. Margaret Shehee with husband David Newton Cole 2. Dr. Morgan Lang husband Eric Lang 3. Jenni and Don Tubbs of Tubbs Hardware 4. Cindy Aubrey, Nicole Wilhite, Jason Smith President and CEO, and Frances Dufrene of Citizens National Bank 5. Bossier Chamber President and CEO Lisa Johnson with incoming Chairman of the Board Nicole Wilhite

6. Base Commander Col. Scott Weyermuller and Retired Col. Trey Morriss with outgoing Chairman of the Board Eric Barkley and BPSB Superintendent Mitch Downey

Krewe of Sobek 1. King Sobek XX Daryl Lane and Queen Sobek XX Tamesha Lane 2. Captain XX Johann A. Cooke, Sr. and CoCaptain XX Virgin L. Rachal 3. Krewe of Sobek XX Royal Court 4. Keeper of Wind Brandon Hancock with Keeper of Fire Stormy Gage-Watts

5. Keeper of Earth Freddie Russell 6. Keeper of Water Shondreka Fitch

Twelfth Night The Krewe of Gemini hosted one of the biggest parties of the year, Twelfth Night, kicking off the 2023 Mardi Gras Season. Captain of Captains Paul Lopez introduced each Krewe Captain and their Royal Court including Kings, Queens, Dukes and Duchesses, High Chieftains, High Priestesses, and Keepers of Earth, Wind, Fire and Water. Co-hosted by the Krewe of Centaur, this evening of fun, merriment, and Open Bar was held at Phoenix 2.0 Downtown Shreveport.

Entertainment was provided by The Wonderfuls.

1. Krewe of Gemini Royalty 2. Krewe of Centaur Royalty 3. Krewe of Justinian Royalty 4. Nemesis King, Queen and Captain 5. Captain of Captains Paul Lopez 6. Krewe of Highland Royal Court 7. Krewe of Ambassadeurs Royalty 8. Krewe of Atlas Royalty 9. Krewe of Demeter Royalty 10. Krewe of Akewa Royal Court 11. Krewe of Elders Royalty 12. Krewe of Oceanus Royal Court 13. Krewe of Harambee Royalty 14. Krewe of Sobek Royal Court 15. Krewe of Barkus & Meoux Royal Court

Award-winning outdoor workouts for adults of all fitness levels!

CHANGING FITNESS CHANGING LIVES

At Camp Gladiator, we are passionate about helping people with their fitness and nutrition goals. We offer full body workouts! Workout anytime, anywhere. Choose from thousands of workouts online or join a group fitness class in your area.

BPCC Foundation Theatre The Bossier Parish Community College Theatre Foundation hosted a reception at the Stephen W. Slaughter Theatre to announce their 2022-2023 Performing Arts Theatre Season. The Cavalier Players under the direction of Dr. Ray Scott Crawford performed an outstanding rendition of the gothic melodrama of Dracula, starring Josue Escobar. The pre-performance reception was held for members of the Bossier Parish Community College Theatre Foundation, advisory board members, and friends of BPCC. A beautiful buffet of hors devours was provided by Pastry Chef Julie Dupont of Norway and the BPCC Culinary Arts staff and students. Look for the Cavalier Players in the upcoming performances of The Three Little Pigs - a BPCC Children’s Show in February, and the musical comedy, The Addams Family, in April.

Independence Bowl

The 46th annual Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl featured the Houston Cougars vs LouisianaLafayette Ragin Cajuns at Independence Stadium in Shreveport. Nationally televised on ESPN, the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl is one of the most historic events in college football history, as it is the 11th oldest bowl game. Dedicated fans braved the cold temperatures of single digits to watch one of the most exciting games in Independence Bowl history. With 20 seconds left in the game, Offensive Player of the Game Houston Cougar Clayton Tune threw a touchdown pass to Nathaniel Dell for the win. Houston Cougars defeated Louisiana Ragin Cajuns 23-16.

1. Dr. Ray Scott Crawford, Professor Theater and Program Director with Stan Copeland and Kim Condon, Events & Program Coordinator for Communications and Performing Arts 2. Wesley Bange, Chief Information & Technology Officer, Michael Whitaker, Dean of Nursing & Allied Health, Megan Bange, Associate Vice Chancellor of Academic Planning, Budget & Resources, and Vicki Dennis, Dean of Arts, Humanities, and Social Science

3. Vicki Dennis, Dean of Arts, Humanities, and Social Science, Jennifer Lawrence, Vice Chancellor for External Affairs & Chief of Staff, Jennifer Robison, Instructor of Photography, and Kirk Fontenot, Assistant Professor Liberal Arts 4. Advisory Board for BPCC Theatre Michael and Alisa Schutza

1. Independence Bowl Board of Director Phil Stewart with Mayor Tom Arceneaux and SPAR Director Shelly Ragle 2. Karen and Roger Merritt

3. Independence Bowl Executive Committee Member Michael Melerine with 2nd Vice Chairwoman of Executive Committee Sarah Giglio and Stacey Melerine 4. Sam Landers with Kerry and Dr. Bryan Maggard, University of Louisiana at Lafayette Athletic Director

BY ADAM BAILEY

hen February 14th rolls around—lovers and friends exchange letters, chocolates, jewelry, and other gifts in honor of Valentine’s Day. While this popular holiday has become known for its cards, flowers and romantic dinner escapades, the history of Valentine’s Day is actually darker than most people realize. If you find yourself wondering about the origins of this midFebruary holiday—and its candy-filled traditions—check out these fascinating Valentine’s Day facts, which offer a deeper look into the age-old celebration.

VALENTINE’S DAY MAY HAVE ITS ROOTS IN AN ANCIENT PAGAN FESTIVAL.

Though some historians believe that Valentine’s Day commemorates the death of St. Valentine on February 14th of each year, others believe that the holiday actually has its origins in a Pagan fertility festival called “Lupercalia”—which was celebrated on February 15th in ancient Rome. Dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, and the Roman founders Romulus and Remus, the day was celebrated by sacrificing animals and smacking women with animal hides—a practice that was believed to encourage fertility.

IN THE 1300S, VALENTINE’S DAY OFFICIALLY BECAME A HOLIDAY ASSOCIATED WITH LOVE. At the end of the 5th century, Roman Pope Gelasius officially declared the date of February 14th to be “St. Valentine’s Day.” However, it wasn’t until the Middle

Day

Ages that the holiday became associated with love and romance—a tradition that first started from the common belief in France and England that birds started their mating season on February 14th.

Fascinating Facts about W

LOVEBIRDS ARE ACTUAL BIRDS. While the term “lovebirds” has become a popular figure of speech, it’s also the common name for the Agapornis bird. This bird is a type of parrot that is native to the continent of Africa and can be found throughout the eastern and southern regions. The animals typically travel in pairs, which is why many couples are referred to as lovebirds.

CUPID IS FROM GREEK MYTHOLOGY. He’s the charming cherub—the winged angelic being—that appears on Valentine’s Day cards, often depicted with a bow and arrow. But how did Cupid become a common symbol of Valentine’s Day?

According to Time Magazine, the figure can actually be traced all the way back to 700 B.C., to the Greek god of love named Eros, who was a handsome, immortal man with the intimidating power to make people fall in love. It wasn’t until the 4th century BCE that the Romans adopted Eros into the image of a cute little boy with a bow and arrow, naming him “Cupid.” By the turn of the 19th century, Cupid had become linked to Valentine’s Day due to his love-matching powers.

THE FIRST VALENTINE WAS SENT IN THE 15TH CENTURY.

According to History.com, the oldest record of a valentine being sent was a poem written by a French medieval duke named Charles to his wife in 1415. Charles penned this sweet note to his lover while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London at just 21 years old. One

of the lines in the poem? “I am already sick of love, My very gentle Valentine.”

THE TRADITION OF GIVING VALENTINE’S DAY FLOWERS DATES TO THE 17TH CENTURY. Giving red roses may be an obvious romantic gesture today, but it wasn’t until the late 17th century that giving flowers became a popular custom. In fact, the practice can be traced back to when King Charles II of Sweden learned the “language of flowers”—which pairs different flowers with specific meanings— on a trip to Persia, subsequently introducing the tradition to Europe. The act of giving flowers then became a popular trend during the Victorian Era— including on Valentine’s Day—with red roses symbolizing deep love.

AMERICANS SPEND MILLIONS ON VALENTINE’S DAY EACH YEAR. Americans will spend over $20 billion on Valentine’s Day gifts—including $2.4 billion on candy alone! According to the National Retail Foundation, the average person will spend approximately $196 for Valentine’s Day, with men spending around $291 compared to women spending $106.

THE VALENTINE’S GIFT PEOPLE SPEND THE MOST ON IS JEWELRY. Candy and flowers might be some of the most common gifts for Valentine’s Day, but the category that we typically spend the most on for February 14th is jewelry, at a whopping $5.8 billion! The second mostpaid-for gift on Valentine’s Day is an evening

CONVERSATION HEARTS GOT THEIR START AS MEDICAL LOZENGES.

per day! Each box has approximately 45 sayings — including “True Love,” “Hug Me” and “You Rock” — but you can personalize your own, too. Don’t worry if you still have last year’s box — they have a shelf life of five years.

VALENTINE’S DAY IS CELEBRATED DIFFERENTLY AROUND THE WORLD.

Many Latin American countries know the holiday as el Día de los Enamorados (day of lovers) or Día del Amor y la Amistad (day of love and friendship). Though couples exchange flowers and chocolate on this day, the holiday’s focus is also directed at showing gratitude to friends!

In Japan, it’s customary for just the women to give confections to the men in their lives, with the quality of the chocolate indicating their true feelings. On March 14th, exactly a month later, the men repay the favor by celebrating the increasingly popular “White Day.”

“XOXO” DIDN’T ALWAYS MEAN HUGS AND KISSES.

Today, more than 8 billion conversation

you know, that’s almost 100,000 pounds

“XOXO” is a popular signature this time of year. The origins of the signature, however, stem from the Middle Ages. During those times the “X” symbolized the Christian cross, and letters ended with the sign of the cross and a kiss to

Finding Best Friends in Unexpected Places... HappyDay!Galentine’s

symbolize an oath. As the gesture became more popular in literature, letters, and paperwork, it came to mean something had been “sealed with a kiss.”

THERE IS AN OFFICIAL VALENTINE’S DAY ALTERNATIVE FOR SINGLES. International Quirkyalone Day is the holiday for single people on the same date. The holiday isn’t an anti-Valentine’s Day event, but rather a moment to celebrate individuality and platonic relationships. International Quirkyalone Day has been celebrated globally since 2003.

SHAKESPEARE INSPIRED A TRADITION. Writing “letters to Juliet” has become a Valentine’s Day tradition for many and even inspired the 2010 film Letters to Juliet. Around Valentine’s Day, thousands of letters are sent to Verona, Italy, addressed to the Romeo and Juliet character Juliet Capulet. These love letters to Juliet are filled with emotion, passion, and in many cases heartbreak. Volunteers, called Juliet’s secretaries, read through each letter, write responses and pick a winner of the “Cara Giulietta” (which translates to “Dear Juliet” in English) prize. The winner gets to visit Juliet’s home in Verona and attend a special ceremony.

ENGAGED MAN for every

BY ADAM BAILEY

So, you’ve dated this girl and decided that you cannot live without her. Your money has been saved. You’ve researched the diamond market, and can easily converse about cut, clarity and color with the best of them. You planned a special evening for the two of you, got down on one knee and even managed to be romantically eloquent. Life couldn’t be more perfect.

Be warned! At some point between the moment she said “yes” to the moment you both say “I do,” you will probably tear out your hair and wonder why your bride-to-be gets a little nutty. While she starts morphing before your very eyes, here is some helpful advice every engaged man needs to consider.

BE SENSITIVE. GROW A TOUGH SKIN. Try to be sensitive to what your fiancée is going through—trust me when I say she has a lot to think about. Every decision is monumental and affects every other aspect of the wedding. Do you invite the friend you haven’t seen in 10 years? What color of frosting do you use—vanilla, white, eggshell, or offwhite? Do you decorate with bunting? What is bunting?

There is truth in the adage, “If you can make it through your wedding, you can make it through anything.” You need to be supportive and sensitive while she is coordinating this complex event. Learn to anticipate her needs and discover ways to relieve her stress. Remember that you are not the enemy.

LEARN TO COMMUNICATE. Hopefully you did this before you were engaged to be married. If not, learn to communicate! Communication is a twoway street—it involves being assertive

and listening actively. This means telling her that you need to talk and then honestly articulating your feelings about a given subject. Express yourself without fear of rejection and without the guilt of being selfish for having an opinion. Most importantly, learn to listen (preferably, all the way through, before you offer a response).

WHEN IT

the you a just

TO WEDDING PLANNING—DON’T BE TOO HELPFUL. It’s not that men want control, but simply equality. As thoughtful males, many of us want to be involved in our woman’s sphere of decisions and problems. But, when you try to be helpful, and get pushed back, it’s easy to think, “Fine! I really am better off without all this lace and flower nonsense anyway!” Unfortunately, you’ve just created another problem for her, and she really doesn’t have time for it.

COMES

If you want to be helpful, don’t be too helpful.

LEARN TO SAY “YES” AND SOUND LIKE YOU MEAN IT. Don’t be insincere. Speak up if you have a genuine concern. But put aside dogmatic opinions. If this sounds easy, it’s because it is. Simply say “yes” and be done with it.

PRAY WITH HER.

The engagement period is a time of drawing closer together until the culmination of the wedding day when you become “one.” This is not just a physical act, but a union of your entire person. Prayer can also be therapeutic for your frantic bride.

PLAY ON THE SAME TEAM.

There were times in my own engagement period when my fiancée and I were on opposite sides of the tennis court, and every time we had to make a decision, we lobbed arguments at each other, firing off 100 mph serves, trying to beat the other person. As we learned to communicate, and I made my bride a higher priority than winning an argument, our relationship was relieved of a lot of stress. In the process of becoming one, we moved to the same side of the court and began facing decisions as a team.

ENJOY THE PROCESS WITH HUMOR.

This is the only way you will survive. And, as the groom, you have to accept in good humor that the wedding is not about you. Weddings—which includes fashion, catering, event planning, photographs, etc.—are all focused on the bride. The bride is beautiful and graceful and charming, while the stereotypical groom is a good-looking oaf with the intelligence of a bag of rocks. All you need to do is smile, enjoy the process, and don’t let the activities grind you down.

SAY THE WORD “ELOPE.”

Go ahead, say it—you’ll feel so much better. No, of course you’re not going to elope, but your wedding plans wouldn’t be complete without suggesting it at least once.

Weddings

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 a strong marriage!

Bride Camille Tharpe McCall; Photography by Bryan Nash with Gigi Pierre; Dress and Veil, Happily Ever After; Hair and Makeup, Kate Tharpe; Flowers, Summerlin Florist; Jewelry, Once Upon a Diamond; Earrings, Mary Caroline Spano; Ceremony, St. Mark's Cathedral; Reception, The Golf Club at StoneBridge; Wedding Coordinator, Rebecca Galloway; Rentals, Pelican Tents & Events; Transportation, iShuttle.

It’s Your

There are so many decisions to be made when planning a wedding. Whether you follow tradition or create your own way, here are a few things to think about for your special day!

QR Codes

Technology continues to be an integral part of life, and wedding planning is no exception. Using QR codes on save the dates is a great way to send guests directly to your wedding website, registries, or a wedding photo gallery, and even collect RSVPs if you choose. QR codes don’t have to be generic or just black and white either. There are many websites where you can customize and design your own QR code.

Wedding Planning

Some brides love the idea of planning a wedding and other don’t have the time or desire. That’s when a wedding planner or day-of coordinator comes in. A wedding planner will take on everything you need them to do relieving you of your wedding planning stress! For short-term help, you could benefit from a day-of coordinator. You can relax and enjoy your wedding day while the coordinator works with the vendors and makes sure everyone is where they need to be, when they need to be there. Your venue may even have one!

Venue

You’ll want to select your venue based on a number of factors, such as your style, size of the guest list, your budget, and dates of availability. You should make a list of your priorities to keep on hand when you visit site options. Venues have varying rules and restrictions about hours to liquor to music to catering to vendors and more, so you’ll want to review these before making your choice. And you may not have to look far if you have a friend or family member willing to open their home for a beautiful backyard wedding! Regardless of the location you choose, remember to get everything you discuss and agree to with vendors in writing.

Vows

Reciting the tried-and-true marriage vows is something many couples look forward to with great anticipation. Others want to include personal sentiments or stories, serious or funny. Either way will be cherished, but if you write your own vows, start early, write more than one draft, and practice!

Atmosphere

Renting furniture, lamps, lighting, tents, and accessories can make your reception feel unique to you. Create a modern aesthetic or a warm and cozy feel, or whatever vibe you want. Comfortable sitting areas are a popular way to create a relaxed and intimate setting for your guests. And don’t forget the fifth wall. Adorn the ceiling with flowers, ambient lighting, or fabric ceiling draping to transform your venue!

Flowers & Plants

Flowers seem to be almost synonymous with weddings, and the combinations are endless (budget permitting!) From beautiful centerpieces to extravagant arches or walls of flowers, there are so many ways to incorporate your favorite colors and flowers. Using or adding live plants (which can be rented) is another way to “be green” and incorporate greenery throughout your venue.

Bridesmaid Dresses

More and more brides choose for their bridesmaids to wear similar dresses in different cuts that fit their respective body types and style. Some are taking it further, where bridesmaids select individual dresses. If you want to go this route, provide several choices or a color theme and decide on the selection together before the dresses are purchased.

Dance Lessons

Looking forward to your “first dance?” All eyes will be on you at that moment! It’s your choice of song and style of dance so make it special. Whether you want to learn some formal dance steps or wow your guests with some choreographed dance moves, taking some dance lessons ahead of time could be the answer for you!

Personalized Touches

Your wedding is the perfect place to honor loved ones, include your pets, share special photos, or leave special mementos or poems for your guests. Including your names and/or monogram or creatively displaying artwork, photos, and signage will elevate the uniqueness of your wedding (and many can be DIY). Order a “permanent” wedding logo out of metal or neon that you can display in your home. Get whimsical by personalizing the groom’s cake with his favorite sport, hobby, or joke. For more fun set up a photo booth or backdrop or hire an artist to create a live painting.

First Look

Are you considering the modern tradition of taking “First Look” photos? Some couples want to take photos together privately before the ceremony to have some time alone together—and maybe get some tears out of the way. On the other hand, there’s something intensely special about the big reveal and the walk down the aisle, looking into each other’s eyes for the first time that day as the joining ceremony begins.

Photos Photos Photos

Your formal photos are timeless and an important part of capturing your wedding day. Many couples are also incorporating candid photos of the wedding party and family throughout pre-nuptial events of the day for more memories you’ll want to keep. Disposable cameras for guests at the reception are also making a comeback, but remember, developing loads of film can be an expensive endeavor. An additional idea: Put a sign at the entrance asking your guests to send their photos and videos to you and include contact information to text or email. But you might not want to use your personal info, so your phone won’t be blowing up your entire honeymoon!

Sit or Stand?

Traditionally, wedding parties stand up next to the couple during the entire ceremony. But it can be tiring and hard to see and hear from there. Some couples are creating special seating for the wedding party to enjoy during a portion of the ceremony.

The Budget

Oh the dreaded word, budget. Discuss early in the planning process who will be paying for what, and if there is a set budget to work within. Then work together to prioritize where you want to spend your money. Videographer? Dress? Flowers? Specialty Food? Photography? Venue? Honeymoon? This will guide your decision making and hopefully relieve a lot of stress along the way.

Shreveport’s Hidden Gem

The Remington Hotel is named after the Western American artist Fredrick Remington. The exposed brick in the Remington Suite Hotel is more than 100 years old. The building was originally the Morris Dickson Pharmacy. Each room is inspired by a well-known artist, including the original work of local artists, including family members. In 2011 Shreveport was named the “Hollywood of the South” while television and film boomed for nearly a decade. The Remington Suite Hotel has been an oasis for many famous stars over the years and now.

“We met at a friend’s wedding in Fairhope, Alabama. Our next three dates were traveling to see each other as wedding dates in Texas and California. I find this funny because, at the end of the day, we decided to elope (February 7th, 2022, at the Santa Barbara courthouse with our parents and dogs present). Later we decided we wanted to have our friends together for a wedding celebration. All the fun, none of the stress. All weekend we had food from our favorite places around Shreveport. (Ki Mexico, Fat Calf, Lowder’s, and more). Maison Louisiane served delicious food at our celebration, and the Phunky Monkeys were amazing all night long. It truly was a Louisiana Saturday Night that our friends and family will never forget!”

— Michael & Hannah Floyd

WEDDING VENUE & BOUTIQUE HOTEL

220 Travis St. Shreveport, LA remingtonsuite.com

Planning & Coordination: Delia Jeffcoat Event

Florals & Event Design: The Colony House

Rentals: Party Central & Perch Decor

Caterer: Masion Louisiane

Photographer: Unveiled Radiance

Videography: Braniff Productions, LLC

Band: The Phunky Monkeys

Mandy started her floral career 26 years ago and has been a licensed florist for 33 years. Her company, Mandy Cathey Weddings, has been in business for 10 and has planned too many beautiful weddings to count. Her experience and professionalism are what guests love, in addition to her incredible designs. Mandy and her team believe in making visions become reality.

Mandy Cathey is the #1 Wedding Planner in SB Magazine’s Best Of Issue and is a go-to favorite wedding and event planner.

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

Saying Yes

has never been so easy

MEET OUR TEAM OF STYLISTS: Amanda, Abbie, Mackenzie, Victoria, Chrystal, Andy, Tori, Heather, Allie, Addie, Kyrah, and owner/stylist, Grace Anne Blake. We specialize in all bridal hairstyles and can accommodate the whole bridal party including groomsmen. We offer many services to complement any look you desire.

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Why Choose a Wedding Shuttle with iShuttle?

It is our special honor to be part of your special day! Let us help you transport your guests and your wedding party between venues with a personalized shuttle service just for you. With a wedding bus, no guests will end up lost, show up late, or waste time searching for parking. It’s the perfect way to keep your guests organized before arriving at your event.

Travel Reliably & Comfortably

One of the many benefits of a wedding transportation shuttle is that you can relax while you travel and enjoy comfortable amenities such as plush seating, extra legroom, and air conditioning. Additionally, buses offer far more legroom than cars or limousines. Formal clothes can be difficult to move in and are easy to wrinkle; after traveling on a bus, everyone will still be looking sharp. When you call to book your bus, be sure to let your reservation specialist know what amenities you’d like to see on your wedding day, and we’ll make sure you’re matched with the perfect shuttle!

Ducote

BIGGER Capturing the Picture

BY SEVA MAY

An elective class in photography during her final semester of college at Southeastern ignited a love for the craft. Mandy Ducote was in the last few months of earning a degree in Marketing with a minor in graphic design when a photography class caught her eye and helped her to see life in a more refreshing way. She learned the old-school way, using film and developing those pictures herself. Already gifted with an eye for composition and design, Mandy’s early photography efforts were admired by family and friends.

She quickly found herself being asked to photograph weddings, parties, and family gatherings until the demand had snowballed into a business. During this time, she found employment using her graphic design and marketing skills. She also soon discovered that she liked and was proficient at writing. However, photography kept tugging away at her heart and it seemed to be her destiny to be a full-time photographer.

She and her husband, Dr. Colten Ducote, settled in Bossier after medical school and extended training brought him to the ArkLaTex Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery group. Being somewhat new to the area, Mandy found herself starting over building a client base as well as her reputation of being a gifted photographer. She understands that to be a good photographer can be as easy as pushing a button. It’s more than getting that “perfect” shot. To be a great photographer, you must find the connection with your subject.

Mandy’s company is Galerie D Photography and she photographs families, graduating seniors, children, and weddings.

“One of the things that I love about photography is the storytelling aspect of it. So many times, when I’ve shot weddings and I’m shooting a father-daughter dance, I’m literally crying behind my camera because I connect with these people so much, ” says Mandy.

She remembers fondly a photography experience she had with the family of a dear friend. It was a multigenerational event –children, parents, grandparents. She recalls taking a shot of the daughter with her 85-yearold father and thinking “this is a legacy moment.” We never know when our loved ones are going to leave us, so capturing those

special moments in a photograph becomes extremely important. A single photo can tell a story without speaking one word.

“With digital photography, we’re able to take so many pictures I feel that the value has diminished. People tend to keep them digital instead of printing them out,” she says. Because of this, Mandy has put her graphic design degree to good use and has started designing traditional family albums for clients so that these memories can be more tangible.

Whether telling a story with a snap of the lens or sharing a memory in an album, Mandy believes that a picture not only paints a thousand words, but it also brings people together.

All photography and self-portrait by Mandy Ducote.

A visionary couple— probably the greatest ambassadors for living in downtown Shreveport— breathe new life into a rugged downtown building, and the results are a striking mashup of old and new with a nod toward fun.

BY ADAM BAILEY

Shreveport, LA. On a corner in downtown Shreveport nestled between three sets of railroad tracks, sits three buildings owned by a former furniture warehouse and showroom. When Liz Swaine and her husband Steve Culp first came across this trio of spaces, they weren’t looking for a new project.

“We had literally just completed a cool new workshop addition for Steve at our converted grocery store/flower shop on Southern Avenue,” says Liz. “We were really happy with the way the residential conversion there had worked out and intended to stay awhile. Things didn’t work out that way.”

In 2014 when the buildings were going on the market, Liz asked to take a tour and brought hubby Steve along. “It was not love at first sight for me,” she says. “There was a lot of deferred maintenance; floors were rotten, bricks were falling out of exterior walls, one corner of the three-story building wasn’t long from caving in, and everything was dark, dirty, and filled with debris.”

Every floor of the building needed to be removed and replaced, none of the systems was up to code, it needed all new plumbing and electrical, gas, air conditioning and heat. “It was seventy-four thousand square feet of nasty and needy, and all I could see was the work it was going to take and the fact it was going to put us in the poorhouse. I could not see how it could work.”

Steve, on the other hand, was smitten. “He kept saying, ‘this place will look great, I can do this.’ I responded with ‘you and what army?’” Liz recalls.

But Steve persisted. “I loved the sense of space—a big, voluminous space—and the fact that it had that sense of hav-

ing had a life before,” says Steve. This property offered the potential for everything that we wanted in a residence— lots of space, an industrial aesthetic, and a fantastic urban setting. It just wasn’t residential yet,” he says.

“Steve has proven time and again that he can build anything, so I didn’t doubt that; it was just the scope of the thing,” says Liz. “But he promised he could make it happen and I believed him. You can see he’s a man of his word,” admits Liz.

“But block in-

The couple has spent long evenings at the LSUS Archives and Special Collections, dug through old City Directories and Sanborn Fire Insurance maps and can tell you the history of their buildings, the businesses that came before, the neighborhood and railroad activity nearby. One of the buildings was an icehouse, one was a hotel. There was a period when the block was called ‘Supplier’s Row’ and offered a variety of oil field supply services. During this period, one of the buildings was the Hughes Tool Co. There was a bar and several different furniture stores, including Awalt, Arnolds, Inc., Frank Lyons Company, and Interstate Wholesale Furniture.

To date, Liz and Steve have fully renovated about 10,000 square feet. Amid the trash, rotten wood, and leaking roof, they found potential—arched doors, brick walls, old growth timber beams, and tall windows topped by half

rounds. “The oldest building of the three was built around 1895 and for most of its history operated as a hotel and bar. Liz and Steve sold that space to another like-minded couple intent on finding a space downtown to renovate and live in. The other two buildings seem to have been built in around 1902 (the three story) and 1906 (the middle two-story).

Liz doesn’t think old buildings have to be stodgy and has worked hard to fill the place with surprises. In their living space, an old elevator has been converted into a spacious pantry complete with fire doors rescued from the former Sears building on Texas Street. Historic porcelain signs share walls with modern abstract art, and the lighting fixtures used in the showroom have been updated and reused. Steve built a hanging library shelving unit with wood from the building and airplane flying wire and turnbuckles. He used new galvanized tin ductwork but aged it with muriatic acid to give it a warm patina.

When the quote for the material Liz wanted came in too high, Liz and Steve decided to use spare metal fire doors for counter tops in the kitchen and master bath, and everywhere old things were given new life. Both Liz and Steve joke that you can’t even see much of what much of the money was spent on. One thing Liz remembers as a head-scratching challenge was the oven vent hood. “We found a great gas stove just like I wanted at a scratch and dent sale,’ Liz laughs. “I wanted it built into the island so when I cooked, I would be facing guests instead of having my back to them. So, Steve and a carpenter friend of ours built this beautiful island and cut a hole in it for the oven- we were committed at that point! I figured we could go to Home Depot and find

an 8-foot-tall vent hood, or worst case, find one online. Was I WRONG!” Liz says the vent hood they needed was going to cost thousands of dollars – IF she could find it. “It was Steve to the rescue again,” she says. “He made it with a historic roof vent from the Sears building and more of the aged tin ductwork. It turned out fabulous!”

“We love the practice of renovating spaces, because we get better with practice, practice, practice,” says Liz. “We’ve definitely matured as we do these types of projects. This place gave us a chance to work on some of the ideas we’ve been playing with for years, but it also required us to use some restraint, to get out of the way and let the bones of the building read through.”

“That’s been a challenge,” adds Steve. “Sometimes we want to put every good idea into a project, but here, it was a place where we wanted to be as restrained as we could, so that we did not overshadow the good elements of the building.”

So, the couple practiced deliberate minimalism, embracing negative spaces where walls would have traditionally provided a transition. Open spaces can be tough, they admit, because everything has to work together.

With their residence complete, the two have turned their attention to the middle two-story building, where work has already started. Eventually, it will see new life as artist, commercial and retail space. They are also thinking about ways to incorporate more of the area’s railroad history into the building.

The only thing that might compete with the love of their comfortable and funky abode is Liz’s unabashed enthusiasm for the revitalization of downtown Shreveport. After all, she is the Executive Director of the Shreveport Downtown Development Authority, where day-after-day she preaches the benefits of downtown living, working, and playing. Liz says she hopes the knowledge she has gained from working on these buildings will help other building owners and developers do the same.

“I think that Steve and I are showing people that every historic building, even the ones that are down on their luck, has another life left in them,” she said. “Done correctly, these buildings can become part of the revitalization of downtown for years to come. These buildings tell a story. They are part of our history, and they deserve a chance.”

We have been building and delivering some of the most durable storage buildings and all American steel structures in Louisiana FOR OVER 25 YEARS.

OUR WARRANTY We use all-American steel materials to build our portable buildings. We believe in our durable material choice and we proudly back up our quality with an incredible 10/10/40 warranty!

FINANCING OPTIONS Take advantage of our financing options today! We offer both traditional loans as well as rent-to-own shed options (without a credit check).

TESTIMONIALS Our previous customer reviews are the best gauge of our quality. Visit our reviews page on our website to read what people say about Gemco Building Systems.

Are 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. 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.

WE BELIEVE IN A BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITY

AVALON HAIR SALON

People ask all the time “Why did you open a salon company ?” There are many reasons, but the most important to me and the company is that I believed I could create a diverse team of stylists, provide continuing education, and teach our team to support one another so we could collectively reach a wider range of clientele in the community to give everyone a beautiful experience. A dear friend Bill Geaslin who now owns SkyDive Louisiana sat down with me 25 years ago and helped me create my 3-year business plan. I had family and friends who believed in me and saw my passion to help others while I enjoyed my craft of hair and makeup. I am truly grateful for these relationships and it is what inspires me to give back... to support our team of stylists and licensed professional makeup artists by providing continuous education, encouragement, and opportunities for each team member to grow a wonderful career. Every day I hope to help others to feel strong, capable, confident, and

beautiful. Thank you to my team who believes in best practices, kindness overcoming all, and in giving back to the community! We get one go around! Be Bold, Be Beautiful Be You!

— XO Grace Anne

3730 Youree Drive

318-861-HAIR

@AvalonHairSalon

AvalonHairSalon.net

MAUREEN O’NEAL, MBA, CFP®, APMA™PRIVATE WEALTH ADVISOR

Maureen has been with Cardinaux Wealth Advisors, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, for ten years. In 2022, Maureen was the recipient of two prestigious industry awards – InvestmentNews’ 40 Under 401 and Forbes Best-in-State Next-Generation Wealth Advisors™2

The InvestmentNews 40 under 40 award is a national award in which the honorees are judged on their accomplishments, contribution to the industry, leadership, and promise. With thousands of nominations nationwide, Maureen was one of 40 selected nationally to receive this award. The Forbes Bestin-State Next-Generation Wealth Advisor award recognizes “next-generation” financial advisors who have demonstrated high levels of ethical standards, professionalism, and success in the business.

Maureen’s purpose as a Private Wealth Advisor is to help clients feel more confident, connected, and in control of their financial lives. When you work with Maureen, you can expect advice based on your goals and needs, personalized recommendations for a diversified portfolio, regular meetings to review your goals and investments, and digital tools to help you stay on track.

Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.

1Recognizing professional accomplishment of financial advisors and other industry professionals.

2The Forbes Top Next-Generation Wealth Advisors, Best-in-State NextGeneration Wealth Advisors and Top 250 Wealth Advisors rankings are developed by SHOOK Research and are created using an algorithm that includes both qualitative (in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings; client impact; industry experience; review of best practices and compliance records; and firm nominations) and quantitative (assets under management and revenue generated for their firms) data. Certain awards include a demographic component to qualify. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. These rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC, are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience and are based on data from the current calendar year. Forbes magazine and SHOOK Research do not receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information: www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.

Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2023 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

738 N. Ashley Ridge Loop (318) 861-3521

www.cardinauxwealthadvisors.com

CFO PROSOLUTIONS

CFO ProSolutions was founded by one of the top QuickBooks ProAdvisors and businesswomen in the Shreveport-Bossier area, Missy Fussell. She believes that women offer the business world a big advantage. “We have a unique set of life and work experiences as well as different perspectives. These differences bring about contrasting opinions, preferences, and strategies,” said Missy. Women are typically seen as caregivers or nurturers and usually excel in skills like task management, communication, patience, and empathy. These qualities are extremely important when working closely with small businesses.

Missy and her stellar team of accountants are meticulous with their bookkeeping and accounting services. Each advisor has close personal and professional relationships with their clients and wants them to succeed in their business ventures.

“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.

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.

CFO ProSolutions is also a QuickBooks Solution Provider with the capability to offer preferred pricing on all Intuit QuickBooks products and solutions. They will assist you in selecting the right QuickBooks software specifically for your business needs.

Missy has over thirty years of experience in business advisory and accounting. Her team of accounting advisors are friendly, professional, and always willing to make time for clients.

A testimonial by long-time client and female business owner, Lauren LeCompte, states it all -- “They are professional, knowledgeable, prompt to reply, reasonably priced, and always willing to help. Perhaps the most important thing to me is their sincere desire to help me become more successful in my business.”

their sincere desire to help me become more successful in my

405 Ashley Ridge Blvd. Shreveport, LA 71106 318.629.6266

www.shreveportcfo.com

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

KRYSTAL KELLER BREAKING BARRIERS IN MULTI-BUSINESSES

It’s no secret that construction is one of the most maledominated professions in the world. And while women are underrepresented in the trades, statistics show that more women are joining the construction industry. Krystal Keller is a testament that women can be successful and transition to several different roles in construction.

A resident of Gloster, Keller grew up in Keithville and graduated from Southwood High School. She started her career in the plumbing business. After years of honing her trade, she accepted a position working in the construction/ remodeling industry. Sixteen years later, in 2020, Keller knew she had the experience and confidence to strike out on her own, so she opened her first business Designer Products and Installation.

“I do a lot of investor work for flippers,” Keller explains. “I do a lot of insurance claims for State Farm and Liberty Mutual. Also, local banks will call me for HELOCS, which are like home improvement loans.”

Keller says “from time to time, banks will call me to see if I would like to purchase a foreclosure property. I usually buy them from individuals, not realtors, rehab the home, rent it, and then I usually end up selling them.”

During Designer Product’s first year, despite the Covid year of 2020, it grew substantially therefore, Keller decided to tap into her entrepreneurial drive and open LOL JK Properties, LLC (Laugh Out Loud, Just Kidding), a roll-off dumpster business used by construction sites all over Louisiana. Fast forward 2 years, Keller recently bought 21 dumpsters bringing her total to 50. Keller forecasts more growth potential with LOL JK Properties.

by Louisiana. Properties.

Keller did not stop there, she recently opened a used car dealership, Drive Now Pre-Owned, located on Hearne Ave. “A car salesman had refused to sell me 2 trucks I needed. I told him, “Well, either I can buy from you, or I can be your competition,” said Keller. She enlisted two other people as co-owners and this new venture is doing great.

In addition to her businesses, Keller donates her time to volunteer work. “I do a lot with Every Warriors, an organization that seeks to give support to servicemen and veterans.

Why does she do it all? “I feel like I’m providing a lot of employees with a good life. It’s knowing you can take care of other people’s families.” For Keller, the sky’s the limit!!!

318.469.9617

designerproducts andinstall.com

DR. CAYCE CLOUD

• Board Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics

• University of Tennessee Health Science CenterDoctor of Dental Surgery

• University of Tennessee Health - Certificate in Orthodontics & Master of Dental Science

Dr. Cayce Cloud joined Graf Orthodontics in May 2020. She was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. She attended the University of Florida and is a big gator fan! After graduating from orthodontic residency, she practiced for two years outside of Nashville before making the move to Shreveport. Dr. Cloud is married to her dental school sweetheart, Dr. Corey Cloud, who is a pediatric dentist. They have two children; Claire, who is two years old, and Cooper, who was born in December 2022. When not working on teeth, the Clouds enjoy traveling, snow skiing, and spending time outdoors with their mini Goldendoodle, Mae.

DR. LAUREN FLYNN

• Board Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics

• University of Texas Health San Antonio - Doctor of Dental Surgery

• Texas A&M University College of DentistryCertificate in Orthodontics & Masters in Oral Biology

Dr. Lauren Flynn joined Graf Orthodontics in July 2020 and is from Dallas, Texas. She has lived all over the Midwest, and attended Texas Tech University for her undergrad. She and her husband, Dr. Indrajit Sehbi, met in dental school, and recently tied the knot last year in Dallas. As an accomplished flutist (really!), Dr. Flynn can be found performing with the Shreveport Symphony and South Arkansas Symphony. Dr. Flynn prefers to spend non-office days playing tennis, traveling, and teaching flute lessons.

Dr. Cayce Cloud

Dr. Lauren Flynn

DONESA WALKER, M. ED.

15 years ago a dream started in the mind of an educator that Louisiana, her newly adopted state, didn’t have to rank at the bottom in literacy. That dream to make a difference in the lives of all ages by training brains to read became a reality in 2008! Donesa Walker, MEd. BCCS. dreamed big. She sought out a partnership with the premier brain training business in the world and brought that one-toone individualized brain training for all ages to Shreveport, LA. Through her efforts, over 1500 brains have been trained locally adding to the 101,000 and counting nationally!

Donesa has strived to make a difference in the lives of people from ages 4-104! 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. She 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, and HulaFrog as well as the local Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce for being a Top Innovator and Best Small Business. Recently she won the BBB Torch Award for Customer Commitment in 2022 and Top Small Business of the Year for The Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, she also received the SB Magazine and Business Hall of Fame awards for Best of Shreveport in 2022. 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 member of the team 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. Donesa is also a published author in many local magazines and most recently a devotional book titled “Oceans of God’s Love”. 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.

Donesa Walker, M. Ed. LearningRx of Shreveport  Master Reading/Dyslexia Specialist Board Certified Cognitive Specialist  #BCCS206959

8856 Youree Dr # D, Shreveport, LA 71115 (318) 797-8523

www.learningrx.com

MAXIE RAMBIN

Louisiana Building Products, locally owned and operated by Maxie Rambin, serves the Shreveport/ Bossier City and surrounding areas with the highest quality building supplies for all of your building needs.

Maxie has been in the building industry since 1996. Her wealth of knowledge and love for helping people are just a few attributes of her success. In 2016, Maxie received the sales achievement award from Huttig Building Products for the fastest annual growth. After a few years, Maxie opened Maxie’s Interior & Exterior of Louisiana. Being over 9,000 sq ft, it is one of the largest showrooms in the Ark-La-Tex. Maxie’s Interior & Exterior of Louisiana has buying power in the market - that is what gives them the ability to offer you the best services and products at the lowest price. From windows and doors to lighting and floors and everything in between, Maxie strives to ensure Louisiana Building

Products and Maxie’s Interior & Exterior of Louisiana is the most efficient one-stop shop for her customers.

Maxie is a proud member of the Home Builders Association, a proud member of BBB, and also serves on the board of The Fuller Center giving back to the community.

Maxie’s Interior & Exterior Of Louisiana (318) 219-4190

www.maxiesinteriorandexteriorofla.com

Louisiana Building Products (318) 219-3510

www.labuildingproducts.com

DR. NATALIA LURAGUIZ CONCIERGE MEDICINE

Dr. Natalia is a private concierge medical doctor, her medical practice is a new experience for medicine with the personalized healthcare you deserve. Our goal is to help you navigate the Healthcare system and be your advocate every step of the way. We offer preventive care, including in-house lab work, EKG, vascular screenings, sleep studies, calcium scores, PAP smears, etc. We offer direct access to your doctor 24/7 by phone, longer appointments, and sameday appointments without any waiting time. We also set up referrals to other doctors and procedures, take patients to their specialist appointments, and offer home visits if necessary. The concierge medical practice reconnects you with the joy of your health journey and delivers the highest standard of primary care in a safe space to work on your emotional and physical wellness.

Our Medspa services are also concierge services, without any waiting time, our patients can enjoy our facilities for services like IV Fluids, vitamin infusions, weight loss consults, aesthetics, including injectables and laser services to rejuvenate and refresh.

Dr. Natalia Luraguiz is a Board Certified Family Doctor. She received her undergraduate and doctorate from Hospital Italiano in Buenos Aires, Argentina. After completing her elective internship and Postdoctoral Fellowship at LSUHSC in Shreveport, LA, she completed her Family Medicine residency at UAMS, Little Rock, AR.

Before coming to Shreveport, LA, Dr. Natalia practiced in East Texas for six years, serving as Clinic Director at the Toledo Bend Clinic, ER Trauma Director for Sabine County Hospital, and as a Hospitalist in Nursing Home Services. In 2007 she opened her MedSpa and Wellness Center in Hemphill, Texas, and became certified as a Yoga instructor. Shortly after that, Dr. Natalia opened her own Yoga Studio and received her firstdegree Reike level. With her practice continuing to grow, Dr. Natalia also worked as an Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine while practicing in Lufkin, Texas.

During the COVID-19 crisis, Dr. Natalia found the importance of her patient’s happiness, health, and wellbeing. “I want to help my patients reconnect with their body, mind, and soul.” She decided then to start concierge medicine and relocate to Shreveport with her family. She uses mindful techniques and the opportunity to get you started on your personal wellness journey. Dr. Natalia is fluent in Spanish and English. She has spent years practicing Western and learning Eastern medicine. By combining the two, Dr. Natalia has learned to apply a holistic approach to the care of her patients, and she works closely with each individual to address their unique concerns.

NEW LOCATION!

1534 Elizabeth Ave Suite 401 Shreveport LA 71101 318-4318613

Like us on Facebook natalia@luraguizmd.com

opened her MedSpa and Wellness Center in Hemphill, Texas,

DR. RAE SCRUGGS SCRUGGS FAMILY DENTISTRY

Dr. Rae Scruggs is a third-generation dentist and business owner of one of the oldest and most successful practices in Shreveport. Already named one of SB Magazine’s “Top Docs and Dentists” two years running, she continues a legacy of providing top-rated services and prides herself on a premier patient experience, every time.

As a student, Dr. Scruggs took advantage of the opportunity to serve in her father’s practice, learning the ‘ins and outs’ of dental operations from both the clinical and business perspectives. She scheduled patients from the front desk, educated herself on the intricacies of filing insurance, and spent crucial hours face to face with patients; learning to build rapport while developing her business fundamentals. In just a year, she was able to double the revenues for her father’s practice.

Now Dr. Scruggs brings with her a new suite of dental technologies, as well as advanced certifications for Invisalign products and cosmetic services like Botox and Fillers. Her addition to Scruggs Family Dentistry has updated the practice and expanded its reach to handle a higher volume patients without sacrificing the familiar and personal experience patients have come to expect. Their brand new office now boasts eight beautiful new operatories, industry leading technologies like iTero scanners and digital cameras, and a stunning new lounge for patients as they await treatment.

As a leader, Dr. Scruggs has used her female perspective to transform and nourish the office culture. She has implemented a daily team huddle, bringing together staff from every department and making communication more efficient, and helping each member of the staff to feel seen and heard. Her focus on practice-growth coupled with her down-to-earth and confident approach with patients led to rapid development of her loyal patient-base. For Dr. Scruggs, being excellent in the operatory starts with building a family that pushes for excellence all as one.

Teeth Whitening:

Get FREE whitening gel with Scruggs Family Dentistry every time you visit for routine six-month cleanings. With our Whitening for Life program, you’ll receive this perk with an initial payment for your unique whitening trays. Patients can expect 1-2 shades of lightning in as little as two weeks!

Smile Transformation:

Anyone can be self-conscious about their smile. At Scruggs Family Dentistry, we walk hand-in-hand with you each step of the way to create a smile that fits each patient’s unique desires. We take patient input seriously, and work with local labs to custom shade your crowns in the dental chair with you.

7030 Youree Dr Suite B Shreveport, LA 71105 (318) 450-6456

scruggsdentistry.com

AUDRIUS M. REED

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 been recognized as a Southern University 40 Under Forty – Cohort Trois, 2022 YPI of Shreveport Bossier 40 Under Forty, and 2022 LSBA Young Lawyers Division Pro Bono Award Finalist. She has been placed on the 2021 and 2022 SB Magazine Top Attorney lists and was recognized in the 2021 and 2022 “Best Of” Family Law Attorney Category. Audrius is the wife of Trenton Reed and the mother of Hunter and Harper. Her hobbies include traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Family Law Attorney

(318) 606-2234

631 Milam Street, Suite 105, Shreveport, LA

MICHELLE PENNINGTON HIGH GRAVITY GLASSWORKS

Michelle Pennington discovered glassblowing during her last semester in college and completely fell in love with the material. She continued to study with several Masters of Glass from places like Italy, Czech Republic, and Turkey until she felt confident enough in her craft to apply to graduate school. She was awarded a full scholarship to attend the University of Texas at Arlington where she began teaching glassblowing and developing her artwork, and ultimately earned her Master of Fine Arts Degree specializing in glass.

She moved to Shreveport soon after and opened her studio called High Gravity Glassworks. There she offers artwork for sale in her gallery, glassblowing workshops for the public, and 8-week intensive courses for people wanting to learn how to blow glass. She loves that she gets to create art and share her passion with the residents of the Shreveport/Bossier City area.

(318) 582-1424

1200 Marshall St

Suite 500

Shreveport, LA 71101

highgravityglassworks.com

JETER THERAPY GROUP

SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY Jeter Therapy Group is a locally owned multidisciplinary clinic that specializes in Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapy. For nearly eleven years, Mrs. Williams worked throughout North Louisiana providing home-based therapy services. This month Jeter Therapy Group is celebrating 3 years as a “brick and mortar.” Our mission is to provide evidence-based assessment and treatment to pediatric and adult populations improving their quality of life.

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.

OROFACIAL MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY Form affects function. Orofacial myofunctional therapy focuses on the muscles of the mouth and face in order to re-educate or retrain clients on how to swallow, breathe, speak, and have proper tongue posture. Orofacial Myofunctional disorders affect all ages.

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 a progressive range of motion, strengthening exercises, 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.

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

RENEE’S DANCE STUDIO

Renee’s Dance Studio was established in 2007. Owner, Renee Oates, who holds a Bachelor’s in Theatre and Dance, has been sharing her love of dance with others as an instructor for over 20 years. The first studio campus is located in Natchitoches. The second campus, located in Stonewall, opened its doors 5 years ago. Renee is passionate about combining correct technique with fun to create age-appropriate classes for every dancer! The current season will close in May and summer registration will begin.

“I’m thankful to have the opportunity to influence lives daily! As dancers, we ask our bodies to do impossible tasks and make it look flawless. Helping others understand their abilities and seeing them overcome challenges is what makes my job so rewarding!” - Renee Oates

318-564-7916

128 Diane Lance Suite C Stonewall, LA ReneesDance

Stonewall@yahoo.com

STAR BOUNCE & BALLOONS

Star Bounce and Balloons bounce houses are all white, modern, clean, great quality, and custom-made to the specifications that make the jump experience fun. They are also made to look picture worthy! The balloon decor is classy, trendy, and elegant, and Star Bounce designs the balloon decor for each event’s theme, whether it’s a birthday party, bridal shower, wedding, baby shower, or any occasion. So when clients book with Star Bounce and Balloons, they’re not just booking a bounce house; they’re booking a wonderful experience.

Owner, Rachna Patel, enjoys the creative process, especially designing and styling, and she has always liked nice, clean, aesthetically looking things, so she started this business with that in mind. As a mom of three, Rachna wanted to make things easier for other moms. She knows mothers juggle so much - they’re working, raising kids, tending to household needs, and often don’t have time to plan out all the details to make their kids’ parties extra special. This realization sparked the idea for Star Bounce and Balloons to fill that need. Rachna makes it easier for anyone to have a fantastic birthday party or event so that her customers can spend more time enjoying themselves and creating memories with their friends and families.

Turn your party into ONE of a kind with Star Bounce and Balloons!  Serving Shreveport/Bossier City & the surrounding area!

starbounceandballoons@gmail.com

(512) 289-2331

starbounceandballoons.com

ALL DOLLY’D UP ESTHETICS, LLC

Madison Borst Morasco is the owner and operator of All Dolly’d Up LLC where she provides customized facials, skincare advice, dermaplaning, lash lifts, and brow waxing! She hopes to also provide a confidence boost for every client that comes in! This is her 3rd year of being an esthetician and 2nd year of owning her business. Madison is inspired by Dolly Parton because she truly believes she has the key to success. She’s genuine, kind-hearted, and all around makes you feel like a good type of person, and that’s all Madison could hope to be! This is why Madison decided to incorporate her into the business name. She hopes to create a relaxing and peaceful environment for all of her clients and is always looking into new techniques and services to provide for her customers!

Book your appointment with Madison today!

318-751-8271

madisonborst12@gmail.com

JANEY MACEY & ASSOCIATES

Janey Macey is a SpeechLanguage Pathologist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She pursued an education in Communication Disorders after being introduced to the field by a Phi Mu sorority sister at Louisiana Tech University.  In 2016, she pursued a second Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis in order to continue to grow in the field of pediatrics and specialize in treating children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). With the completion of her second Masters in 2018, Janey became one of only seven dually certified Speech-Language Pathologists and Board Certified Behavior Analyst in the State of Louisiana. She chose the field of Speech-Language Pathology and Applied Behavior Analysis based on her love of helping a child with disabilities to achieve their highest potential. Janey Macey & Associates has been in business for 19 years. The children they work with at the clinic inspire Janey and have taught her that making small improvements can lead to big leaps in development.  So many of the children at the clinic have overcome so many adversities and watching them succeed makes Janey feel successful.

(318) 741-5909 • 2285 Benton Rd # C200, Bossier City, LA

Photographer Micahla Vaughn

Dr. Joslin Mar-Dai Pickens

BY SCOTT ANDERSON

Dr. Joslin Mar-Dai Pickens didn’t grow up wanting to be a college professor.

“We’ve got the right stuff,” Wrobel said of the science labs that he helped start up in his time at Byrd. “We’ve got the right tools. We’ve got the talent. Everything’s in place. We’ve just got to keep it plugging.”

“I wanted to be a fashion designer,” she said. “I always had a creative mind and have been against the grain. Even now, people say, ‘You don’t act like a doctor.’ Well, I have no idea what they are supposed to act like. I’ve always been a little different.”

Pickens got her bachelor’s degree in mass communications. And, because she “wasn’t ready to be an adult yet,” she continued her education and received a master’s degree in cross-cultural communications from Grambling University. Her particular interests were political campaigning and public relations.

AN IMPACTFUL JOURNEY

She returned to Shreveport and got a job in marketing in the television and radio industry. But she soon discovered she did not enjoy the sales component of that career. “I was at a crossroads,” she said. “I was driving down the street, and I said, ‘I wonder if they are hiring.’ I stopped in at Southern (University Shreveport) and asked. They said, ‘No, but here’s a number.’ I gave them my resume and everything.”

That’s when a little patience paid off for Pickens. At the end of that semester, an opening came up to teach mass communications. She was 24 when she started at Southern, almost the same age as her students. But she has enjoyed the journey. “It’s something that I love,” Pickens said. “I am passionate about education and educating others.”

She is now in her 20th year teaching at Southern. Recently, her desire to learn led her to launch another journey — this time as a vegan chef. One of the things Pickens presents in

her classroom is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. It’s a theory of motivation that states humans are driven by five categories of needs. Ranked from the bottom up, they are physiological (food and clothing), safety, love and belonging, esteem and selfactualization.

“When you ascend to that top level, self-actualization, and take a moment to figure out who you are, you don’t do that one time at 17 or 18 years old,” she said. “I have done that several times. That’s where this transition came from as well.”

In 2011, Pickens was having some medical issues. So, she turned to her lifelong love of learning, or “being nosy,” as her grandmother called it, to find an alternative to the medications the doctor was prescribing. That research led her to make the transition to veganism “cold turkey.”

“Taking meat and dairy out of my personal diet was something I was interested in doing,” she said. “I had no clue what I would eat. I lost about

I

65 pounds. I lost a lot of muscle mass. I was very sick. I didn’t know what I was doing.”

She started her vegan journey by herself, but that didn’t last long. She was open about her experience on social media, and soon her family members and friends were joining her. “My mother got off her high blood pressure medicine when she decided to transition to veganism about five years ago,” Pickens said. “There were little wins along the way with the family joining in and my friends coming over seeing different foods.”

The journey took another turn when Pickens became hungry for more — literally. “I posted, ‘Man, I wish someone sold vegan food in Shreveport, because I am starving,’” she said. “I posted that one day in 2017, and people said, ‘You should do it.’

“I thought, ‘Maybe I should do it. But that’s silly. I didn’t go to culinary school.’”

She didn’t let that stop her, though. She took her creativity, her love of learning and the support from her family and friends and went to work. Her journey took her first to Dr. Sebi, a Honduran herbalist known for developing alkaline vegan recipes. She calls that a “traditional” vegan diet — one that “is not fun or good or tasty to eat.” She said it wasn’t until others, especially her daughter, Jalynn, joined her on her journey that “the fun happened.”

“When it was just me, I was just being sad and eating the boring stuff,” she said. “When they came into the picture, they wanted things we were accustomed to eating. My daughter was a teenager at the time. She didn’t want quinoa. She wanted burgers and pizza.”

Pickens sat with her daughter, her mother, Linda, and her sister, Kimberly, and discussed how to make vegan food better. They found their biggest inspiration in her late grandmother, Mary Southall.

“She has woven herself into the legacy of our business,” Pickens said. “A lot of the things we learned just by being in her kitchen, all the little tips we remembered, we use those in our food. It’s become something we love to eat at home.”

Pickens started out selling prepared meals out of her mother’s house. It became popular quickly, she said, and she knew it was time to turn it into a business. But she didn’t know any more about launching a business than she did teaching college or vegan cooking when she started those ventures. So, she once again turned to her lifelong love of learning.

“I know that my connections and people I have met through Southern University over the past 20 years have put me in a place with certain people that I can ask questions of,” she said. “So, I started asking.”

What she found was the Milam Street Kitchen Incubator and Community Kitchen, which provides food entrepreneurs with commercial kitchen space and the business education to grow their operations. “I was almost salivating when I saw that kitchen equipment,” she said. “We could really legitimize our business by coming this way.”

Pickens opened Vegans on the Run in June of 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. She said that unique situation gave her the chance to “learn along the way.” Linda, Kimberly, and Jalynn all work with Joslin sharing responsibilities for the day-to-day operations.

Vegans on the Run continues to operate out of MS KICK at 1210 Milam St. It offers curbside pickup from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and Sunday, as well as meal prep pickup from noon to 1 p.m. on Sunday. The menu and online ordering are available at thevegansontherun.com.

menu

In November of last year, Pickens received the ATHENA International Leadership Award from the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce.

“That had to be the most surreal moment of my life,” she said. “I get emotional even thinking about it. Being nominated for something so prestigious, and then actually receiving it, has been the biggest highlight of my last decade, and one of the highlights of my life.”

The recognition helped her to see how far the once-aspiring fashion designer has come.

“When you’re in the journey, you don’t think of all the things you do,” Pickens said. “I just live. I just work. I just do. I don’t think of it as being exceptional. Being acknowledged for doing exceptional things when you’re just being yourself is really cool. It brought it back to me, like, ‘Oh wow, you really have made an impact.’”

The recognition is another part of a legacy that remains important to Pickens, for her own sake and her daughter’s. It’s a legacy of life, liberty, and learning.

exceptional everything

“I feel like I am such a novice at so many things, and people laugh at that. They say, ‘You’re the expert.’ I want to know so much. I think that thirst for knowledge is what catapulted everything that I do and made me push toward excellence.”

Scott Anderson is a freelance writer with more than 20 years’ experience in journalism. He enjoys discovering and sharing people’s stories.

Dr. Joslin Mar-Dai Pickens, Jalynn Pickens, Linda Pickens. Not pictured: Dr. Kimberly Pickens.

Jamie Kochakian DREAMS& Determination

BY ELLEN NICHOLSON

Jolie Blonde – what better name for a shop full of beautiful things with a Cajun flare?

Gifts fill each nook and cranny of this small, boutique-style gift store nestled amid a row of businesses located at the busy corner of Shreveport’s Wallace Lake Road and Bert Kouns Industrial Loop. Store owner Jamie Kochakian believes Jolie Blonde’s success can be attributed, at least in part, to the neighboring beauty salon, spa and restaurant who refer clients to her store and vice versa.

Another reason is a diverse assortment of hand-selected merchandise.

Jolie Blonde shoppers move easily among shelves and displays of wares that include everything from gourmet foods, table décor, baby items, men’s toiletries and gifts, to jewelry, holiday items and clothing. A custom-created line of candles, soap, lotion, and room spray bear the store name, and Louisiana and Cajun-themed goods can be found mixed in among almost every shelf. Kochakian’s sunshiny personality is apparent throughout the shop.

Originally from Hot Springs, Arkansas, a 19-year-old Kochakian followed her parents to Shreveport. She pursued a career in retail sales, but all the while dreamed of owning her own gift shop. After meeting and marrying her husband Tim, the young couple worked together establishing a glass repair and replacement franchise. That business’s success led to 2019 plans to open a second location near their home on the southeast side of Shreveport. That expansion swung wide the door for Jamie’s gift shop dream to come true. One side of the new building would house the glass franchise - the retail operation would take the other side.

skills were put to the test with merchandise postings utilized to to see the store’s unique array of offerings. A given day may

BY HAILEY LAWSON

hen thinking about getting a bearded dragon, the first thing people usually ask is, “Do bearded dragons make good pets?” The short answer is yes, bearded dragons make GREAT pets! Affectionately called “beardies’’ by their owners, these exotic lizards from Australia are known to be very friendly and curious little creatures. Because of their good temperament, bearded dragons have become one of the most popular reptile pets. Beardies are active, inquisitive, and fun to watch and play with; however, they require a bit of a learning curve for the beginner reptile pet owner.

Here are a few reasons why a bearded dragon may be the right pet for you:

� BEHAVIOR

Bearded dragons definitely have the best behavior of any pet lizard. If you handle them gently, beardies are generally easygoing and non-aggressive. They have great personalities and dispositions. Bearded dragons often display amusing behaviors like arm waving, head bobbing, and beard billowing. They will run around their aquarium for attention and stare you down if dinner is late! Beardies enjoy daily interactions with their owners and want to be taken out of their cages and explore your home — under careful supervision, of course.

� SLEEPING

Bearded dragons are diurnal, which means they are active during the day and sleep at night — just like us humans. So fortunately, bearded dragons won’t keep you up at night scratching around or planning a big nighttime escape like nocturnal pets. Beardies generally wake up around

sunrise; however, the time they wake up is affected by environmental factors. They are cold-blooded, which means the temperature affects their daily activities and waking time.

� HANDLING

Smaller animals are usually harder to handle and easier to injure than larger animals, but bearded dragons are generally easy to handle because they’re calm and hardy. Also, the size and temperament of bearded dragons make routine care simple. Beardies are the perfect size to handle and enjoy being handled. The Proper handling of your bearded dragon is crucial to building a solid and trusting bond. Additionally, they are large enough to be taken safely by younger children with little risk to them or the child.

crucial

� LIFESPAN

In the wild bearded dragons typically live about five years, but they often live 8-15 years in captivity with

proper care and nutrition. Bearded dragons are very robust animals and generally don’t suffer from disease or serious health complications. With adequate housing, a nutritional and balanced diet, and veterinarian check-ups, your bearded dragon may live a long and healthy life, making them great long-term companions. Raising a beardie from a juvenile can be a rewarding and joyful experience.

� CLEANING

Fortunately, bearded dragons are one of the easiest pet lizards to maintain. Beardies like keeping themselves clean

and don’t smell. However, your bearded dragon’s home will need daily spot cleaning to keep it healthy and happy. You’ll need to spend a few minutes cleaning up any unwanted food and cleaning up droppings each day. With daily care, your bearded dragon’s home will only need a full cleaning once or twice a month.

� FEEDING

Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning they eat plant and animal-based foods. Therefore, you’ll need to provide your bearded dragon with a proper diet and plenty of clean water each day. Young bearded dragons are fed once or twice a day, while adult beardies are fed once a day. Luckily, beardies are not fussy eaters. They enjoy a wide variety of insects, vegetables, and fruits. So, finding inexpensive food they like is not too difficult.

FINAL THOUGHTS : Bearded dragons are great pets for many people. They are suitable pets for adults and older children. Beardies are friendly, animated, curious, easy to care for, fun to watch and play with, and capable of bonding with their owners. They are hardy and robust animals when cared for properly. Remember to always do your homework about this type of pet or any pet before adding them to your family!

Dr. Ashlei Bauer has been practicing since 2007 and is the proud owner of Southside Animal Hospital. It has always been Dr. Bauer’s intention to own a practice and she had a wonderful opportunity arise in 2018 with the retirement of Dr. Ed Loyd. Dr. Bauer took a big leap of faith in leaving the practice she had been at for 10 years to purchase Southside Animal Hospital, but it has been an amazing journey for her. She inherited a fantastic group of women that are vital to the clinic’s success every day. The clinic grew beyond her wildest dreams that first year and she was able to add on her rockstar cousin, Dr. Mallory Campbell, in the second year of ownership. Southside Animal Hospital is a full-service clinic, where Dr. Bauer and Dr. Campbell offer the most compassionate, comprehensive care for your pets. They provide the best service in the area for clients and are fully experienced with all breeds of dogs and cats, including specialty breeds.

VISIT SOUTHSIDE ANIMAL HOSPITAL TO SEE WHAT THEY CAN OFFER YOU AND YOUR SPECIAL PET!

His Royal Highness, The Prince Mr. Andrew Robinson Briley

Her Royal Highness, The Princess Miss Elizabeth Claire Wooldridge

Master David Patrick Garrett

Miss Caroline Walker Farr

Miss Katharine Gray Knicely

BY URSULA BRANTLEY

American Psychiatric Association, parental burnout is recognized by many psychologists as well as the World Health Organization.

down just because life circumstances change. I went on working hard and tirelessly, but eventually took a little time off to recharge.” Hill went on to say, “Navigating my journey has at times been a bit difficult, sometimes exhausting, but at best very rewarding. For me there is something very fulfilling about operating in the many roles that God has called me to using the many gifts He’s blessed me with.”

Licensed esthetician and salon/school owner Carmen Evans is a single mom of three who is thankful that she has always had a solid support system, but that didn’t stop burnout from creeping up on her. Evans, who has been a permanent makeup artist for 12 years, said, “I cannot recall the last time I felt so drained and depleted. I am thankful for the improvements I have made more recently, though I wish I would have listened to my body sooner.” Her experience with burnout was a surprise to her, but it wasn’t a surprise to her body and mind. She explained, “The simplest everyday things were going haywire with no logical explanation. Just complete and total overwhelm that slowly creeped up on me and knocked me to my knees. My body just gave out and I was asleep every day for weeks in December.” Evans is now on a mission to help others to avoid getting to that point she never saw coming.

come with a mental, emotional, and

in the New York Times showed that 66%

due to ongoing demands. Parental burnout has become a global crisis. Though it’s not included in the DSM-5,

Since 2012, wife & mother of two, Treneisha Hill, has been an Assistant DA with the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office. Over the last decade she has tried a plethora of homicide and sexual assault cases. She also assists with handling and resolving high profile cases. Being that she and her husband of 8 years, local attorney Kerry Hill of Hill Law Firm, both have high demanding careers, it’s vital for them to work together setting firm boundaries so their children always know that they come first. Shortly after having their second child, Hill was faced with a few unforeseen life circumstances while balancing home and a hefty workload. Hill said, “Our jobs don’t slow

Though both women walk the tight rope of work/home life, they make a point to keep their families in the foreground. Whether through movie nights, traveling, date nights, or just talking about their days, Hill and Evans prioritize the functionality of their families and the happiness of their children. There is nothing more important than to keep a proper work/home balance for the stability of the children.

100 YEARS OF SAVING LIVES

research benefits millions of lives in every community and in every nation, and is translated into guidelines to provide the best, most updated care. Many life-saving devices and measures were initially funded and researched through the American Heart Association. Any healthcare provider who has ever provided or anyone who has been the recipient of CPR, pacemakers, drug-eluting stents, clot-busting medicines, or cholesterol inhibitors to patients, has benefitted directly from the impact of AHA research funding.

Lucero is passionate about teaching CPR in our community and the AHA is a world-wide leader in CPR training. The lifesaving skill of CPR recently received nationwide attention when Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills collapsed on the football field bill on January 2 of a cardiac arrest. Lucero said the AHA is “committed to educating the public about Hands-Only CPR. Hundreds of these kits have been delivered to Louisiana schools to help districts ensure that every high school senior learns hands on CPR skills as well as the importance of an AED. This training will add thousands of life-savers to our community annually. By-stander CPR is important because 90% of people who experience an out of hospital cardiac arrest die. For every minute CPR isn’t performed, the person’s chance of survival diminishes by 10 percent.

“Heart disease is the number one killer of women and the number one killer of Americans. A woman dies every 80 seconds of heart disease.” Symptoms of heart disease are not as pronounced in women as in men. Women are our mothers, our sisters, our daughters, our spouses, and our friends. They give and give and give - often at the expense of their own health. The more a woman knows about heart disease, the better chance she has of beating it. Heart disease and stroke cause 1 in 3 deaths among women each year – more than all cancers combined. Women need to be more aware of the signs.”

For nearly a century, the American Heart Association has been at the forefront of cardiac research. The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association is not just a charity; the staff and volunteers are crusaders, innovators, scientists, and partners. The American Heart Association will celebrate its 100th Anniversary in 2024. Jill Lucero, the Regional Director for the American Heart Association in Northwest Louisiana shares that there is a lot more to the organization than people realize. This non-profit is dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and volunteers, they raise funds for innovative research, advocate for the public’s health, and share lifesaving resources. The AHA started with six cardiologists in 1924 so that they could take science and bring to the surface the causes of heart disease.

Funding research is the cornerstone of the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission, and the organization is supporting research at the Center for Cardiovascular Disease and Science (CCDS) at LSU Health Shreveport with approximately $1.4 million. The AHA has invested over $4.6 billion in research since 1949, second only to the federal government. The knowledge that results from AHA funded

they

own

Over the past 20 years, Go Red for Women (GRFW) has been changing the perception women in Northwest Louisiana have about heart disease and stroke. Throughout the year, we share life-changing stories of triumph and loss to inspire women (and men) to make changes to their own personal health. The movement strives to provide women with opportunities to prioritize and take charge of their own health; build communities that support and provide access to healthy choices; demand equal access to healthcare for all women and their families; and increase women participation in STEM in future generations. GRFW challenges women to know their risk for heart disease and stroke and to take action to live a healthier lifestyle. Through celebrations like the GRFW Luncheon on February 28th and National Wear Red Day, February 3rd, they are giving women in Northwest Louisiana the tools they need to overcome heart disease and stroke. The funds raised through the campaigns remain in Northwest Louisiana and support local programs. The Chair for the 2023 GRFW campaign is Dr. Steen Trawick, CEO of CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health.

Another activity is the NWLA 5K Heart Walk/Run, which is scheduled for April 29th at Festival Plaza. Lucero said the Heart Walk “is an opportunity where we ask companies and community groups to get their employees, families or members engaged so they can be a part of making a difference,” she said. There is no fee to register for the Heart

Walk and special guest will be Miss Louisiana Jordan Green. The Chair for this campaign is Sarah Collier, Owner/VicePresident of Collier Investments DBA Manpower.

There are several areas that the AHA is committed to impacting: women’s health, eliminating tobacco and vaping; community needs and nutritional security, controlling blood pressure, heart attack & stroke, improving nutritional security, and building mental well-being.

The NWLA AHA has partnered with Community Foundation of North Louisiana, Southern University and LSU Health Shreveport to fund and mentor three Nursing students from Southern University-Shreveport to participate in our Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Scholars program: Jayla Oliver, Lindsey Cawthorne and Shandrika Morris. Through their participation in the Scholars program, these students will study how the social determinants of health and other health disparities impact underserved communities. They will also participate in scientific research projects and present their findings at the end of the program. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, only 8% of medical students and 5% of physicians are Black and African American.

The students are being mentored by physicians at LSU

Lucero is working with Willis-Knighton Health System and Collier Investments-Manpower to increase and improve maternal health-care through a blue tooth blood pressure cuff loaner program with local and rural health clinics. “A big problem is high blood pressure, and we’re providing education, as well as a program whereby pregnant women, can self-monitor their blood pressure and report those results to their doctors. Lucero continued, “If somebody has high blood pressure, it’s especially important they learn how to reduce and manage it. It is important for everyone to know their numbers- blood pressure, A1C, and cholesterol. We have an underserved population that may not have the resources to get such a device, and so we are working with clinics to better serve the community.

We love creativity and art is used as one method to help stroke patients recover. The AHA Strokes for Stroke program provides an opportunity for stroke survivors to create a piece of artwork and the canvases are brought together for a traveling art exhibit throughout Caddo and Bossier Parishes. Strokes for Stroke recognizes local individuals who have shown invincible strength, resilience, perseverance, and aptitude in their fight against stroke. Creating images uses the physical and cognitive sides of the brain and making art combines the two. Engaging with art has shown early promise

n and program with the event concluding by 1 pm

hy, Rhonda Anderson, Chief Clarence Reece, Stephen Wright

BY DR. ARSHPREET KAUR

where the blood sugar levels due to the rise in childhood obesity. hormone made by our pancreas which insulin to try to get cells to respond.

to keep up with the insulin resistance, blood sugar rises, leading to prediabetes

What is concerning about prediabetes is that it usually does not have any symptoms and therefore, often goes undetected until serious health problems occur. More than 80% of American adults with prediabetes do not know they have the condition. Screening of people at risk is the key to early diagnosis and prevention of type 2 diabetes. The risk factors

include being overweight, being age 35 or older, having a first-degree family member with type 2 diabetes, having a sedentary lifestyle (physically active less than 3 times a week), having a history of gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or giving birth to a baby who weighed more than 9 pounds, having HIV or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Smoking

poses an additional risk in prediabetes and diabetes; stopping smoking is of paramount importance to prevent cardiovascular complications. Race and ethnicity are also a factor: African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians, Pacific Islanders, and some Asian Americans are at higher risk.

Prediabetes screening is also recommended in children aged 10 years or above who are overweight or obese and who have one or more other risk factors for type 2 diabetes, such as family history of type 2 diabetes, race or ethnicity with an increased risk, mother with gestational diabetes, or other conditions associated with prediabetes like PCOS, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or low birth weight. Children and adults who have prediabetes should be tested for type 2 diabetes every year or more often if they experience a change in weight or develop signs of diabetes such as increased thirst, increased urination, fatigue, or blurred vision.

Diagnosis of prediabetes is based on one of the following blood tests: hemoglobin A1C, fasting blood sugar (after 8 hours without eating) and an oral glucose tolerance test (performed fasting in the morning, with blood glucose measured 2 hours after ingestion of a 75-g oral glucose load). Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test indicates the average blood sugar level for the past 2 to 3 months. Certain conditions like pregnancy or having an uncommon form of hemoglobin can make the A1C test inaccurate.

The good news is that progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes is not inevitable. Healthy lifestyle choices including healthy diet, regular physical activity and weight loss can help to lower the risk for developing type 2 diabetes by as much

as 58%. These changes can also improve cardiovascular risk factors and even bring the blood sugar level back to normal. A diet low in carbs, fat, and calories with an emphasis on whole grains, legumes, nuts, fruits, vegetables and minimal refined and processed foods is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. A small amount of weight loss, around 7% of your body weight which is just 14 pounds for a person weighing 200 pounds, can lead to a significant risk reduction. Regular physical activity means getting at least 150 minutes a week of brisk walking or a similar activity - that is only 30 minutes a day, five days a week. The CDC developed the National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP), an online resource for lifestyle change programs for preventing type 2 diabetes and providing locations of CDC-recognized diabetes prevention lifestyle change programs. At Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, a prediabetes group class or an individual session is offered at the diabetes education center with a focus on healthy eating and increasing physical activity.

In summary, prediabetes is a silent disease with serious longterm complications if not detected and treated early. It can be diagnosed with a simple blood test and lifestyle changes can improve outcomes significantly. The best time to act is NOW!

Arshpreet Kaur, MD, FACE, is an Assistant Professor of Endocrinology and the Director of Diabetes Initiatives at 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.

The category of Day Spa was accidentally left off of the Best of List printed in our December 2022 issue. Congrats to winner Spa Concepts and runners-up All Dolly’d Up and Glamor’Us!

NWLA MASTER GARDENERS GRANTS

The Northwest Louisiana Master Gardeners announce the 2022 recipients of NWLAMG community grants to support beautification and horticultural education within our community. Of particular interest are projects that make a difference in the community, that are sustainable, The mission of the Master Gardeners is to educate the public about gardening and engage the community in horticultural pursuits. Giving these grants allows them to multiply their efforts by aiding and funding projects envisioned, implemented, and maintained by other groups. Grant recipients are:

• Faith and Fostering - $904

• Highland Center - $951

• Keep Bossier Beautiful - $1850

• LSUHS Growing for Good - $1000

• MLK Health Center & Pharmacy - $340

• Shreveport Garden Study Club - $3500

• Shreve Memorial Library - $2397

CARDINAUX WEALTH ADVISORS RECOGNIZED AS A BEST-IN-STATE WEALTH MANAGEMENT TEAM

BY FORBES

Cardinaux Wealth Advisors, a private wealth advisory practice with Ameriprise Financial in Shreveport, was named to the list of “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” published by Forbes. The list recognizes financial advisors and their teams who have demonstrated high levels of ethical standards, professionalism, and success in the business.

The rankings are based on data provided by thousands of the nation’s most productive advisors and their teams. Cardinaux Wealth Advisors was chosen based on assets under management, industry experience, compliance record and best practices in their practice and approach to working with clients. Cardinaux Wealth Advisors is led by Mark McCrocklin, MBA, CFP®. The team also includes private wealth advisors Maureen O’Neal and Cody King, associate financial advisors Nicholas Hammond, Jordon Davisson, and Sheri Wilson, and support staff Renisha Sanders, Julie Chapman, Lauren Matthews, Dragan Matic, Brittany Peevy, James Valente, Josh Miller, Amber Mahgoub, Gabe Rodriguez, and Megan Mahoney.

LOCAL STUDENTS WIN NATIONAL AWARD AT THE 2023 JUNIOR THEATER FESTIVAL ATLANTA

Students representing Stage Center’s School of Performing Arts in Shreveport won a Freddie G Excellence in Music award and earned other recognition at the 2023 Junior Theater Festival Atlanta (JTF Atlanta) in January. Students Mia Kiihnl and Christian Perkins were named to the festival All-Stars.

The 2023 JTF Atlanta was an incredible weekend of singing, dancing, acting, and learning. There were 125 groups from 28 states, as well as Washington DC, Canada, and Australia, participating in the festival.

Stage Center’s mission is to produce plays and musicals for professional and community actors, advanced student actors, and community-based musicians and artists at the highest caliber of professionalism and talent. The program aims to work on new material as well as retell classic work to enrich the lives of Louisianians.

At the festival, each group performed 15 minutes of a Broadway Junior® musical for adjudicators. Stage Center’s School of Performing Arts presented Shrek The Musical JR. to actor Daniel J. Yearwood (Hamilton, Broadway), director Lotte Wakeham (Associate Director: Matilda the Musical, Broadway & West End), and Kenny Shepard (Professor, Musical Theatre and Dance Departments: Ball State and Anderson University and Choreographer for The Children’s Museum’s Lilly Theatre/ Indianapolis).

Said Shepard, “What a memorable and moving show! I am so impressed with how Stage Center’s School of Performing Arts brought these iconic characters to life with no costumes or prop pieces. They are triple threats who go for it! There are too many standouts to mention. Christian Perkins as Donkey has impeccable comic timing. Vocally, Mia Kiihnl had an amazing command as the dragon, and the movement and voice of the dragon were just incredible! Without a set, the staging of the three Fionas was brilliant, moving us through time and local. It’s obvious SCSOPA students are receiving fantastic training in all disciplines: voice, dance and acting. These students are the full package, such strong technicians, and performers!”

go dragon

Photo: Avery Brunkus/JTF

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LSU HEALTH SCIENCES FOUNDATION IN SHREVEPORT NAMES BOARD CHAIR

The LSU Health Sciences Foundation in Shreveport is pleased to announce Tom Ostendorff, III was elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors for a 2-year term, which began on January 1, 2023.

Ostendorff is a lifelong Shreveport resident and has served on the LSU Health Sciences Foundation Board of Directors for four years, most recently as Vice Chairman. He is the current owner and President of Southern Research Company, which focuses on background investigation for employment, tenancy, and volunteerism. Previously, he worked for the Shreveport Police Department in the Division of Special Investigations and as the District Manager of Purolator Armored. Ostendorff is a member and former Regional Vice President of the American Society of Industrial Security, a Member of the Committee of One Hundred, and Former Chairman of the Committee of One Hundred Healthcare Subcommittee.

“I look forward to leading this dedicated board and continuing to grow and use Foundation resources to strengthen LSU Health Shreveport in its mission to train our future healthcare providers, deliver exceptional health care, and expand research opportunities. We will continue to help position our academic medical center as a leading economic driver for North Louisiana,” said Ostendorff.

The LSU Health Sciences Foundation’s mission is to inspire donors to invest in LSU Health Shreveport and steward contributions toward its support. Ostendorff will lead a 22-member board which includes the following officers and committee chairs:

• Bill Comegys, III - Vice Chair & Investment Chair

• Ray Lasseigne - Treasurer & Finance Committee Chair

• Valarie Jamison - Secretary & Audit Committee Chair

• Bubba Rasberry - Governance Committee Chair

• Shane Bridges - Property Committee Chair

• Susan Moffitt - Development Committee Chair

• Armand Roos - Immediate Past Chair

CADDO PARISH COMMISSION SELECTS 2023 OFFICERS

The Caddo Parish Commission selected its 2023 leadership at its first regular session meeting of the year

on January 5. Commissioner Roy Burrell, District 5 was selected as Commission President. Commissioner JohnPaul Young, District 4 was elected Vice-President, and Commissioner Stormy Gage-Watts, District 7 was selected as Parliamentarian. The newly elected officers will serve in their leadership roles for one year.

CADDO PARISH COMMISSION SELECTS INTERIM DISTRICT 8 COMMISSIONER

The Caddo Parish Commission selected Ronald Cothran as interim Commissioner for District 8. Cothran will fill the seat left vacant by former Commissioner Jim Taliaferro, who was elected to the Shreveport City Council in 2022.  The appointment was made at a special called meeting of the Commission on January 12. Cothran was sworn in immediately following the Commission vote by Caddo Parish Clerk of Court Mike Spence. Ronald Cothran is a graduate of Grambling State University, the University of Oklahoma and Wright State University with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social welfare, human relations and educational leadership. He brings a variety of work experiences to the Commission, including positions in the public school system and as a 23-year veteran of the United States Army. The Commission also voted to call for a special election to fill the District 8 seat that will run concurrent with the general election on October 14, 2023.

COMMITTEE OF 100 FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, INC. ANNOUNCES NEW OFFICERS AND MEMBERS

The Committee of 100 for Economic Development, Inc. has elected new officers and executive committee members for 2023. The Committee of 100 for Economic Development Inc is Louisiana’s Business Roundtable promoting public policy that makes Louisiana more competitive in retaining existing business and industry and attracting more innovative businesses to Louisiana.

New Officers are Chair Wayne Brown of Brown Builders, Bossier City; Vice-Chair Dr. Phillip Rozeman, Cardiovascular Consultants, Shreveport; and Secretary/Treasurer Scott Ballard, Ballard Brands LLC, Mandeville. Tim Temple, Temptan LLC, Baton Rouge, will continue on the Executive Committee as Immediate Past Chair.

New Executive Committee members are Jude Melville, b1 Bank, Baton Rouge, and Julie Stokes, Ellevate, New Orleans. Continuing as members on the Executive Committee are Tom Clark, Breazeale, Sachse & Wilson, LLP, Baton Rouge; Carlton Golden, Builders Supply Company, Bossier City; Rodney Greenup, Greenup Industries LLC, Kenner; Trott Hunt, Hunt Guillot & Associates, Ruston; Kris Kirkpatrick, Long Law Firm, Baton Rouge; Kellen Mathews, Adams and Reese, Baton Rouge; Phillip May, Entergy, Baton Rouge; Gray Stream, Stream Company, Lake Charles; Mary Leach Werner, Sweet Lake Land & Oil Company, Lake Charles.

New members joining C100 are—Matthew Block, Block Law Firm, Thibodeaux; Lyla Corkern, Finding Solace LLC, West Monroe; Annette Dowdle HUB International Gulf South, Covington; Charles Fenstermaker, C. H.

Fenstermaker & Associates, L.L.C., Lafayette; Spencer Martin, Roy O. Martin, Alexandria; Brett Mattison, AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company, Shreveport; Edgardo Tenreiro, Baton Rouge General Medical Center; Sharonda Williams, Loyola University, New Orleans.

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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.

Virginia Bullock is the proud owner of Jump! Swim Schools. For almost four years, she has been helping children and adults learn how to better enjoy the water and enjoy it safely. Virginia and her husband, Jim, are lifelong residents of the SBC and enjoy continuing to give back to the families who reside here. Mention this AD at enrollment to get Free Registration for one Child.

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10 Things You May Not Know About

Mardi Gras. Two little words with an infinitely large explanation.  For different people, it means different things—an event, an idea, a day, a way of life, a piece of history, a state holiday, or a million parades and countless memories. If you think you know Mardi Gras, think again!

1. “LAISSEZ LES BON TEMPS ROULER” IS THE OFFICIAL GREETING OF MARDI GRAS. Sooner or later, you’re bound to hear the phrase “laissez les bon temps rouler” (pronounced lay-say le bon tom roo-lay) over and over again at Mardi Gras celebrations. It means “let the good times roll” in Cajun French.

2. CARNIVAL IS A SEASON. MARDI GRAS IS A DAY.

This year, Mardi Gras festivities are set to take place on Tuesday, February 21 around the world. However, truth be told, preparations for “Carnival” begin months in advance, sometimes years. It’s safe to just assume they never stop. The Carnival season will officially start the night of January 5th (known as Twelfth Night) and last until Fat

Lent season begins on Ash Wednesday before change other When in doubt on figuring out the date

Tuesday, which translates into “Mardi Gras.” Fat Tuesday—also known as Shrove Tuesday—marks the final day of feasting and celebration before the Lent season begins on Ash Wednesday (or 40 days before Easter). This explains why the actual date of Mardi Gras can change depending on the year. Sometimes there is a long Mardi Gras season, and other times a short one. When in doubt on figuring out the date of Mardi Gras, always count back from Easter.

3. CARNIVAL IS CELEBRATED NOT JUST IN NEW ORLEANS, BUT ALL OVER THE WORLD.

Louisiana is the only state in which Mardi Gras is a legal holiday—and parades and festivities will take place all over the state—from New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette to Alexandria, Lake Charles, Monroe, and, yes, right here in ShreveportBossier. However, elaborate carnival festivities draw crowds in other parts of the United States during the Mardi Gras season as well, including Mobile, Alabama, and St. Louis, Missouri. Each region has its own events and traditions. Across the globe, preLenten festivals continue to take place in many countries with significant Roman Catholic populations.

and, yes, right here in Shreveport-

tourists flock to Venice’s Carnevale,

Brazil’s weeklong Carnival festivities feature a vibrant amalgam of European, African, and native traditions. In Canada, Quebec City hosts the giant Quebec Winter Carnival. In Italy, tourists flock to Venice’s Carnevale, which dates to the 13th century and is famous for its masquerade balls.

Known as Karneval, Fastnacht or

ends

Known as Karneval, Fastnacht or Fasching, the German celebration includes parades, costume balls and a tradition that empowers women to cut off men’s ties. For Denmark’s Fastevlan, children dress up and gather candy in a similar manner to Halloween— although the parallel ends when they ritually flog their parents on Easter Sunday morning.

4. THE FIRST NORTH AMERICAN MARDI GRAS WAS CELEBRATED IN ALABAMA—NOT LOUISIANA.

MARDI GRAS WAS CELEBRATED IN

French-Canadian explorer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville arrived in what is now modern-day Mobile, Alabama, on Fat Tuesday, 1699. He named the location Point du Mardi Gras and threw a little party. In the years that followed, French travelers would come to the spot explicitly for Fat Tuesday celebrations. To this day, Mobile, Alabama, claims to hold the oldest Mardi Gras celebrations in the country.

threw a little party. In the years that followed, French travelers would come

5. THE TRADITIONAL COLORS OF MARDI GRAS ARE PURPLE, GREEN, AND GOLD. AND THERE’S A REASON.

It has been rumored that when Grand Duke Alexei visited in 1872, his welcoming committee handed out purple, green, and gold beads to the partygoers that year, as they were the colors of his family. The trio of shades came to symbolize the festivities and were later given meanings: purple for justice, gold for power, and green for faith.

6. MARDI GRAS BECAME THE CELEBRATION WE KNOW TODAY BECAUSE OF A SECRET SOCIETY.

Since its first impromptu celebrations in the early 1700s, Mardi Gras was regularly cancelled or banned for its destructive drunken parties—that is until 1837, when a New Orleans’ secret society known as the Mistik Krewe of Comus aimed to elevate the chaotic experience, replacing the debauchery with lavish balls and parades. Eventually, the “Fat Tuesday” celebrations of New Orleans garnered much support and enthusiasm, later establishing itself as the Mardi Gras capital of the country.

7. WHAT ARE MARDI GRAS KREWES? AND WHAT DOES IT COST TO JOIN?

The Shreveport-Bossier area is home to some of Louisiana’s largest parading Mardi Gras organizations—known locally as Mardi Gras clubs or “krewes” (pronounced the same way as “crew”). These krewes produce a busy calendar of parties, parades, and other events each Carnival season. Many krewes act as secret societies and make sure their participants’ identities are never publicized (which is why krewe members wear elaborate masks during parades). Each Krewe builds a float to represent their specific theme on parade days and features a celebrity guest to regal their audience.

Want to join a krewe and ride in a parade? Joining a krewe in Shreveport-Bossier is really quite simple. While dues vary, membership typically allows you to ride in the parade and attend the ball and other events throughout the year. For example, membership in the Krewe of Centaur—the largest Mardi Gras Krewe in north Louisiana—are $150 per person a year. Membership includes the opportunity to ride a throwing float or be in a walking-marching group in the parade, attendance to monthly meetings, full voting privileges, Krewe parade liability insurance, monthly newsletters, float group parties and events

throughout the year, discounted ticket costs to Krewe parties and events.

Due to the membership size of many of the krewes— some over 500 members—float ridership privileges are treasured and are becoming harder and harder to come by. The sooner you join in the new Mardi Gras year, and sign up for a position, the more likely it is you will find a float position.

Also, it’s important to remember if you do get the opportunity to ride in a parade—you have to pay for beads and trinkets for the entire parade route, which aren’t cheap.

8. WHY DO KREWE’S HAVE ROYALTY?

On its surface, the election of Royalty may seem comical. However, being chosen is a very special honor and is taken very seriously by krewes in the area. Mardi Gras Royalty are typically elected because of their contributions and standing in the community. Being chosen to represent a Krewe as a King or Queen is an honor that announces to the community at large that these people have made our city a better place and we recognize their hard work and dedication. So, be sure to raise your cup and toast every King and Queen this Mardis Gras season!

9. KREWES HURLS PARTY FAVORS INTO THE CROWDS.

Floats notoriously give out “throws,” which are exactly what they sound like—objects thrown into the crowd. Anything and everything can be thrown from hot dogs to stuffed

animals to plastic cups to gold doubloons to MoonPies. Beads are the most ubiquitous throws, which are given by almost everyone. A known code of asking for throws is to shout the phrase “throw me something mister”—which is probably gendered because the first women’s parade did not hit the streets of New Orleans until 1941.

It’s considered a great honor to receive a throw. This custom—the throwing of beads and fake jewels—is thought to have started in New Orleans in the late 19th century when a Carnival king, who may or may not have been dressed liked Santa Claus, threw fake strands of gems and rings. Due to the popularity of these “throws,” other krewes soon followed suit, which only makes sense—before that krewes threw mostly food and dirt. By the early 1920s, krewes were regularly handing out tiny trinkets to the parade followers. The original Mardi Gras beads were made from glass. Today, if you’re lucky, you can still catch a krewe throwing one of these vintage beads.

10. THE KING CAKE, A TRADITIONAL DESSERT, HAS BIBLICAL ROOTS. WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THE BABY?

By far the most delicious of Mardi Gras traditions is the King Cake and dates back to the Medieval Times when French, Belgian, and Spanish cultures commemorated the 12th day of Christmas with gifts and sweets. And, like many Christian folk traditions, it may originally have had pagan origins. During Saturnalia—the ancient Roman winter solstice celebration of the deity Saturn— the person who found a special item hidden in a cake would be “king of the day.” Biblically, the kings during this time would have been visiting the newborn baby Jesus—bringing gifts and sweets of their own. That’s where the “king” in king cake comes from. However, the precise reason behind the tiny baby figure in the cake may be a little bit more down-to-earth. In the 1940s, a New Orleans baker chanced upon a surplus supply of French porcelain dollhouse figures that first gave the cake that local spin. Traditionally, a king cake is a coffeecake type pastry, fried and doughy, glazed and frosted, typically in the Mardi Gras colors. They’re usually circular and braided, to resemble a King’s crown. Most cakes are baked with a tiny baby figurine on the inside, and whomever finds the toy—as tradition holds—must host the next big party (or at least buy the next year’s king cake).

JUST REMEMBER … PACE YOURSELF!

Carnival is a season; Mardi Gras is a day. It’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced—and everyone experiences it in their own way, whether ensconced along a parade route, hopping between house parties, or wandering the festive streets with family and friends. However you do it, remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

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CREATE YOUR OWN GLASSBLOWING ART WORKSHOPS

Venue: Sanctuary Arts School

Date: Recurring weekly

Time: see website for available times

Info: sanctuaryglassstudio.com

BOSSIER MARDI GRAS NIGHT MARKET

Venue: Pierre Bossier Mall

Dates: Saturday, February 4th

Time: 3 PM – 8 PM

Info: www.BossierNightMarket.com

SECOND SATURDAY DOWNTOWN

Venue: Downtown Development Authority

Dates: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Saturday

Time: 10 AM – 6 PM

Info: www.downtownshreveport.com

ELLEN SOFFER: PINK SKY

Venue: Artspace

Dates: January 26th - April 8th

Info: www.artspaceshreveport.com

GLASS-BLOWING ART WORKSHOPS

Venue: High Gravity Glassworks

Date: Recurring weekly

Time: see website for available times

Info: www.highgravityglassworks.com

CAMP AQUA: POLAR PLAYOFFS!

Venue: Shreveport Aquarium

Dates: Monday, February 20th

Time: 9 AM – 4 PM

Info: www.shreveportaquarium.com/wintercamp

EAST BANK MARDI GRAS MARKET

Venue: East Bank District & Plaza

Dates: Saturday, February 25th

Time: 4 PM – 8 PM

Info: facebook.com/EastBankDistrict

OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS

Venue: Shreveport Little Theatre

Dates: February 23, 24, 25, & 26

Info: www.shreveportlittletheatre.com

Owner - Kenzie Gill

Drop tablespoonfuls of batter, a few at a time, into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on both

chocolate and cinnamon. Then there’s a crunch and Lightly spray with cooking spray.

Combine butter, brown sugar, Bring to a boil over medium-high

Break into pieces, removing from the paper.

of a certain young age like the couple of honor, to gawk and ooh and ahh. When the bride made her appearance at the back of the church, all her young well-coiffed female friends stood and their mouths dropped and they gasped, all wide-eyed, and if it hadn’t been tacky they would have squealed and raced down the aisle and carried Alina to the front of the church on their shoulders.

If you knew the bride and groom— we’d known the bride since she was just past little bitty — you knew it was going to be a good time, even if you had to get all dressed up.

So happy for her. So happy for this young man, who’d met her at church when she was a college freshman and he was a sophomore and finally, after a couple of years, asked his future wife out. Book-learning or not, he got his college money’s worth because this young dude lucked into a first-stringer, a young woman just a little crazy, semi-whacky, ever playful, smart and loyal and good right down to the marrow, raised right and true blue.

She also comes fully equipped with a top-shelf mom, dad and baby sister, which means the groom hit the In-Law Trifecta.

Clean livin’.

During the ceremony proper, the smooth young pastor — he’d brought his “A” game — read some answers from questions he’d asked during the pre-marriage counseling phase, like, “What was your first impression of each other?”

Jump LOVE for my

BY TEDDY ALLEN

Moments before the groom was to kiss her, the bride started jumping up and down, not like she was going to dunk a basketball but more like on a pogo stick, and the guests clapped wildly, a sonic burst, all unrehearsed, and if the sanctuary had seen moments more authentic or spontaneous or ferociously fun, it couldn’t have seen many.

Every time I want to beg an engaged couple to take the Wedding Ceremony Money and go tour Europe or put it in savings or do anything with it besides blowing it on flowers and candles and faultless dresses for a 25-minute show, I go to a wedding like Alina’s — and it all makes sense again.

It was on a weekend afternoon this December, clear and cool, and maybe there were Christmas parties to go to but this came first for the several hundred there to support and, if you were

The bride had answered, “I thought he was insanely smart ... and he looked good in glasses.”

The groom: “Really kind-hearted and funny. But definitely also weirder than most girls I had met.”

Love is blind. And, sometimes, weird.

For a “funny story from your relationship,” the groom had answered that the night he’d finally decided to ask Alina out, she showed up at church in a black T-shirt that read, “Called to a Season of Singleness.”

Some would take this as a sign, “some” meaning “any sane person.” Especially at church.

The future groom did not. He endeavored to persevere. And for that reason, there we were, together at Christmas, a whole bunch of imperfect people and an imperfect couple and an imperfect pastor, all luckily together for a perfect moment.

A final prayer concluded, the couple looked at each other, holding hands at the ends of outstretched arms, and the kissing part was coming, and that’s when Alina started hopping. Just two or three or maybe 10 hops, ready to get on with the show, and I promise after they kissed and the preacher presented them, either the couple or the preacher or God Himself, the inventor of marriage, got a standing ovation. A standing ovation at a wedding.

If confetti had started falling from the ceiling and a sideline reporter had grabbed the couple, exiting amid shrieks and high-5s, it would not have surprised me. Not at that point. Not even a little bit. A glorious moment.

Thinking about getting hitched? Some of you are. If you’re sure, do as my friend Alina did: hop to it, and jump right in.

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

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