TOP ATTORNEYS 2022 SB MAGAZINE

EYE ON SB: MARDI GRAS BEAUTY BOSS FROM THE ARCHIVES

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Steward Partners Global Advisory, LLC and Poljak Group Wealth Management maintain a separate professional business relationship with, and our registered professionals offer securities through, Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Steward Partners Investment Advisory, LLC. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

The Forbes ranking of Best-In-State Wealth Advisors, developed by SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative criteria, mostly gained through telephone and in-person due diligence interviews, and quantitative data. Those advisors that are considered have a minimum of seven years of experience, and the algorithm weights factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience and those that encompass best practices in their practices and approach to working with clients. Portfolio performance is not a criteria due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. Out of approximately 32,725 nominations, more than 5,000 advisors received the award. This ranking is not indicative of an advisor's future performance, is not an endorsement, and may not be representative of individual clients' experience. Neither Raymond James nor any of its Financial Advisors or RIA firms pay a fee in exchange for this award/rating. Raymond James is not affiliated with Forbes or Shook Research, LLC. Please visit https://www.forbes.com/best-in-state-wealth-advisors for more info.

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PUBLISHER

EDITOR

G. Byron May

S

OWNERS

pring is in the air! I imagine this will be a great time of year to start experiencing evening activities around and near the new Bakowski Bridge of Lights, which has brought both a spectacular view and promising vibrancy to Shreveport-Bossier. Thank you to all who made this a reality!

March is the annual SB Magazine Top Attorneys issue. We are excited to provide our readers with a list of Top Attorneys as voted on by their peers, as well as a People’s Choice award.

When we were putting together this section, I was intrigued to learn about each attorney’s unique priorities and approach to handling cases and being the voice for their clients. We are fortunate to have so many talented attorneys at our disposal, with such distinct individuals, with various backgrounds, achievements, accomplishments, community impact, personal interests and families. My father Roy Beard (who we lost in October) was one of those individuals, and he was extremely proud to practice law in Shreveport for over 55 years. So my personal thanks in his honor to all individuals in all positions in the Shreveport-Bossier legal community.

Did you know that March is Women’s History Month? We pulled quite an interesting historical account from the SB archives and also have a great story about Shreveport’s very own 90-year-old YouTube star to share.

New this month is a Kids profile section and a Parenting section.

Don’t forget to check out the events calendar as well as spring looks in makeup, hair, and fashion with the Beauty Boss!

G. Byron May Seva May Noble Feldman

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Elizabeth Beard Deal

ASSISTANT EDITOR Hailey Lawson

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Teddy Allen Scott Anderson Adam Bailey Ursula Brantley Jon Paule Calcote Hailey Lawson Seva May Donesa Walker Michelle Yetman, PhD

PHOTOGRAPHY Hailey Lawson Debbie Henry

GRAPHIC DESIGN Ryan Watson

SALES TEAM LEADER Keyle Cavalier

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

HOW TO REACH US

All the best,

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

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Copyright © 2022 SB Magazine, Inc. Volume 23, Issue 3

Serving the Wealth Management Needs of Northwest Louisiana Argent is a leading, independent wealth management firm that has served clients for over 30 years and today has responsibility for over $35 billion in client assets. We provide individuals and families with a broad range of services, including trusts and estate planning, investment management and oil and gas (mineral) management, as well as a variety of services for businesses and institutions.

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FEATURES: 12 19 36 114

Twists and Turns of Memory Home Feature: Provenance Junior League: Designer Bag Bingo Managing Stress

COLUMNS: 5 7 16 30 32 34 102 104 106 110 118 120 128 130 132

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ATTORNEYS

Eye on SB SB Beauty Boss SB Art & Culture SB Manology SB People SB Pets From the SB Archives SB Good to Know SB More News SB Kids SB Parenting More Eye on SB SB Events St. Patrick's Day Treats And Another Thing

SPECIAL SECTIONS: 40

Top Attorneys 2022

2022

130 ON THE COVER

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Ryan Gatti, Top Attorney List Joshua Williams, Top Attorney List and People’s Choice Attorney Courtney Harris, Top Attorney List Andrew Hodges, Top Attorney List

EYE ON SB

Bakowski Bridge of Lights The opening celebration for Louisiana’s first

BY DEBBIE HENRY

programmable LED lit bridge, the “Bakowski Bridge of Lights,” located on the Texas Street/LongAllen Bridge was the BRIGHTEST event ever produced in the State of Louisiana. Dr. George and Sandra Bakowski donated $1 million for the LED lights and the Red River Waterway Commission matched the $1 million grant to install the lights. On 2-22-22 an amazing light show produced by Broadway Lighting Designer Jason Lyons and Academy Award-winning Director William (Bill) Joyce debuted. A special recognition was given to 250 students from Caddo Parish Schools, Southern University Shreveport, Bossier Parish Community College and the VOA Afterschool Lighthouse Program who report to Sci-Port Discovery Center each month to learn the STEAM skills required to design and program the light shows. These educational programs are made possible by the Shreveport Regional Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, Powers Foundation, Community Foundation of North Louisiana, Louisiana Division of the Arts and the City of Shreveport. Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins and Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler dedicated the bridge to the twin cities and recognized the sponsors and partners making all of this possible with special recognition to the Louisiana Public Service Commission, Downtown Development Authority, Will Atkins, and the Shreveport-Bossier Convention & Tourist Bureau. The celebration continued with bright futures and bright lights with at least 22 couples getting married or renewing their vows on this especially bright and special day. 1. Dr. George and Sandra Bakowski with son, Robert Bakowski 2. Jeffrey and Sandi Kallenberg 3. Academy Award-Winning Director William Joyce with Hilary Wooley 4. Ashley Henning and Christopher Clarke were married at the Bakowski Bridge Lighting Ceremony 5. Artists Dorothy Kristin Hanna and Bruce Allen unite in marriage surrounded by friends, family, and half the city at the Bakowski Bridge Lighting Ceremony 6. Katy and Keith Larsen renewed their marriage vows on 2-22-22 at the Light It Up Ceremony on the Riverview Amphitheatre stage 1

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Bossier Chamber Business of the Year Bossier Chamber of Commerce 74th annual Business Award Ceremony “Out of

the Box’’ was held at the Bossier Civic Center. Each year, the Chamber celebrates the successes of the previous year while sharing plans for the year ahead. It’s also a time to honor outstanding chapter members and local businesses. 1. Chairman of 2022 Bossier Chamber Board of Directors Executive Committee Eric Barkley with wife, Shannon. 2. MSG Tommy Tidwell, Retired Col. Scott Soloman and Maj. John Carmouche 3. Stan Wallace and Christian Burney of Magee Resource Group, Out of the Box Sponsors 4. Greg Nichols with Britney and Adam Bass 5. Margaritaville Asst GM and CFO Michael Gallagher, with 93rd Bomb Squadron Tre Matthews, Margaritaville GM and Bossier Chamber Chair Leader Barry Regula with 343d Bomb Squadron Commander Jesse Hildebrand 6. Bossier Chamber Executive Director Lisa Johnson 7. Business of the Year Cyber Innovation Center accepted by Kevin Nolten, Business Person of the Year Parick Gullatt of Barksdale Federal Credit Union, and Small Business of the Year Dillas Quesadillas accepted by Pete John, Bossier Franchise owner. 8. Doug Rogers and Judge Jeff Cox 9. Bossier Chamber Vice President Jessica Hemingway with Carter Federal Credit Union CCP Jonathan Reynolds and Hilton Shreveport Business Travel Sales Manager Katie Theriot 1

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SB BEAUTY BOSS

SPR NG

BY JON PAULE CALCOTE

F T

R WA R D !

FASHION

he flowers will soon be in full bloom, with birds chirping, bees buzzing, and the sun shining brighter than fashions we have seen on the runways worldwide. As we enter Spring 2022, we should do so with an open mind and bravery in our style choices—as the season is full of bright colors and interesting cuts!

Neon Colors Tap into your inner 80’s diva this season and pull out some of those beautiful, bold, bright neons. Try it as a staple piece of your outfit or just a pop of neon in your accessories like a belt or earrings—but you really can’t go wrong with this trend.

ks oo l l a r eut styling. n r e d n Ge about the minine are all ith super fe cute this Pair w ories to exe ssly. access ook seamle l •

Gender-Neutral Cuts This trend is sexy and fun in an edgy androgynous way. To achieve this look, shop for pieces that have a more masculine or unisex silhouette cut. Or even better, throw on one of your spouse’s button down shirts with a cute pair of cut off shorts and wedge sandals. Another option is a classic fitted men’s t-shirt with a pair of distressed blue jeans and heels.

•

Statement Jewelry There is no easier way to shift the vibe of your outfit than mixing and matching accessories. This fashion rule has stood strong for years but this season we are seeing even more oversized necklaces, earrings, and cocktail rings. The key to wearing statement jewelry is to focus on one piece. For example, if you wear a bold beautiful necklace, try a minimalist approach to your earrings. Or if you’re wearing a bold beautiful cocktail ring, wear a delicate simple necklace.

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between e n li e in f a is There ding style and a bold outstan one look. “Before tacky overd our house, look in you leave yand take one thing the mirror - Coco Chanel off.”

HAIR Hair Clips Instead of neatly tucking away and hiding your bobby pins or hair clips, let them show! Hair clips and pins are made in many colors, styles, and sizes, even stoned and jeweled.

Using them to highlight your hair style is a trend in full bloom this spring.

High-low Cuts A sweet and playful trends that certainly looks cute on any body type at any age. It is simply a top, shirt or dress that is cut higher in the front and longer in the back, giving the illusion of a train effect.

Slip Dress Popular in the late 90’s, this trend--a dress made in the fabric of and cut just like a slip--has made its way back on to the runways. Though this is a very cute, flirty look, it can sometimes feel a bit revealing. If so, grab a cardigan or cute duster to wear over it!

Sleek Straight Hair Use a straightening iron to achieve the shiny, smooth, bone straight hair look. The key is to first protect your hair from extreme heat by using a smoothing serum and heat protectant in your hair before you blow dry. This will also help you achieve that super smooth healthy hair shine.

Head Scarves This trend is like a field of spring wildflowers popping up everywhere and is shaping up to be one of this season’s biggest trends.

Adding a head scarf to your look is a sure-fire way to stay right on trend.

Easy Braids are a trend in hair that we have seen the past few seasons and is clearly not going away any time soon.

The key to this trend in 2022 is to forget about striving for perfection.

The looser and more fun your braid is, the more on trend!

Chick Chignon Traced back to ancient Greece and also popular in ancient China, this style is when hair is worn as a roll or knot at the nape of the neck, or “chignon du cou,” in French. This style has been a formal wear staple for years!

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• Dewy Creams & Liquid

Highlighters Glowing dewy looking skin is a forever favorite in the beauty industry. The most common way to create this effect is by dusting on a powder highlighter to the high points of our face. This year’s trend in highlighting uses the same product placement, but instead of powder products, uses a cream or liquid formula to add even more of that dewy hydrated look.

your g n i ll i f f o Think ou normally brows as y then brushing would, but ut to create a them o feather softly light-as-a-lpted look. scu

• Bronzed Skin The bronzed sun-

kissed look is a trend that has been hanging with us for quite some time and looks to be here for a while. One key tip for rocking this sunny spring look: make sure you purchase a body bronzer when purchasing your facial bronzer, so you won’t be caught with a nice, tanned face that doesn’t match the rest of your body!

• Jewel-Toned Eyes Jewel-toned

eye shadow looks are something we are used to seeing in the fall, but this eye look was up and down spring 2022 runways and has been all the talk amongst beauty bloggers worldwide. To pull this off successfully in a ready-to-wearway, stick to colors that personally remind you of spring. For me, it’s the emeralds, golds, and amethyst.

• Softly Sculpted Brows Light, airy,

soft brows are center stage for brow artistry these days. Long gone are the thin barely-there brows, which went out the door alongside bulky, heavily drawn-out brows.

Trending brows for the upcoming season and year are softly sculpted.

• 90’s Nude Lips Instead of wearing

your favorite nude lip stick or gloss alone, line your lips heavily in a coordinating lip liner. You want to blend in slightly, but the objective is to have a lip liner that is visibly stronger and more noticeable, giving you dramatic framing to your lips.

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years, memory training has become more efficient as we understand more of how the brain works.

M

emory is such a tricky thing. It’s the powerhouse of our brain which allows us to make connections to our world, our people, our society, and yet it is so fickle. I like to think of memory in terms of a computer because it is easier that way, but the truth is, this visualization is a tool of memory too.

Our brains have multiple memory banks and storage strategies that we have yet to completely unlock and understand. But we do have a basic knowledge of how memories are formed and stored which we use in AI and this is quite incredible. The work on memory is ongoing but through the

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Synaptic thoughts are the connections we make when something is triggered in our brain. The more

BY DONESA WALKER connectivity that one thought has, the longer it stays and begins to link to others which then forms a memory synapse or connection which can be used, stored, retrieved, or discarded. Like a computer, what is deleted or trashed is truly rarely deleted or trashed but rather minimized and left unstimulated until another connected thought stimulates it… bringing it back to life, so to speak.

Most memory is visually stored or connected. Even people who are completely blind create mental imagery to store memory, which makes those who struggle with visual imagery at a larger disadvantage to store memory. With all the visual input in today’s society, we are harming this creative

imagery maker in our brain which is impacting our memory connections. When our imagination is not triggered constantly and consistently, this skill of creating visual imagery retards and doesn’t develop as it should, which can cause memory issues which impact connectedness.

Let’s imagine for a minute that we have never seen a squirrel in person, but as a child we saw the movie UP where the dog freezes and has attention issues every time that the word “squirrel” is mentioned. A child who has not pictured the word squirrel creatively now thinks that “squirrel” is a freezing motion when it is said. So, one day a squirrel runs across the ground and someone says “squirrel” then the child suddenly freezes and starts turning their head side to side distractedly. Immediately the other person thinks something is wrong with the child while the child is only imitating what they think the meaning of the word “squirrel” is.

This is a true story, by the way. This happened to a teacher friend who was noticeably startled by the young child’s behavior. The visual memory was triggered but in the wrong manner because of miscues in the visual processing which affected memory.

Memory stimulation comes from connecting to experiences and from imagination. So building memory is just that easy! It is a deliberate exercise of imagination and connection! Remember the “I’m going on a bear hunt and taking a [ fill-in-the-blank]” game? This game actually is a way to train long term memory, just like how listing things that start with “P” triggers Retrieval Fluency. The “I SPY” game trains visual skills and imagery which leads to a boost in memory also. Picture-it games like Pictionary trigger the imagination, just like charades and other games of this type.

Making connections is truly the key to boosting memory and the more you connect, the more places your mind can go in memory!

Donesa Walker, M. Ed., BCCS, is the owner of LearningRx of Shreveport and BrainTrain Learning Solutions.

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Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Care at Willis-Knighton Health System

Make Your Appointment with Dr. G.E. Ghali Patients in the Ark-La-Tex now have greater access to one of the country’s most distinguished oral and maxillofacial surgeons, G.E. Ghali, DDS, MD, FACS, FRCS(Ed).

Following a prominent career in academic medicine, Dr. Ghali is now a full-time member of the Willis-Knighton Physician Network, practicing and operating at all Willis-Knighton hospitals.

You can be treated by this internationally recognized oral and maxillofacial surgeon who has taught and mentored surgeons throughout his career.

Choose Dr. Ghali for: • Cleft lip and palate or craniofacial surgery • Tumor removal/ head and neck surgery • Oral surgery • Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) • Sleep apnea surgery • Facial/jaw pain • Trauma surgery of the jaw and face (injury/accident) • Cosmetic surgery of the jaw and face

2508 Bert Kouns Industrial Loop. Suite 410

(318) 212-5944

We gratefully acknowledge our 10th anniversary with Snell’s Orthotics – Prosthetics and the service they have provided our craniofacial and cleft team at Willis-Knighton South & the Center for Women’s Health. Thank you for | SBMAG.NET 14 being Always Here to provide support and comfort for our patients.

MARCH 2022

KNEE-HIP-SHOULDER CARE With You Every Step of the Way

Reclaim your life with joint preservation and joint replacement care from Willis-Knighton Physician Network specialists. Choose one of our specialists to address your joint pain and recommend the right treatment, including joint replacement surgery for knees, hips, and shoulders.

Technological advances – many including robotic-assisted procedures – offer you smaller incisions, less pain, and a quicker return to normal. Our technology includes: • ROSA Robotic Knee System – precision placement of the knee implant • ROSA Robotic Hip System – for anterior total hip replacement • Digital 3 Tesla MRI – ideal for imaging small bones and the musculoskeletal and neurological systems You’ll also want Willis-Knighton Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Willis-Knighton Home Health as you recuperate.

Call for an appointment and gain the benefit of WK quality orthopedic care every step of the way.

SHREVEPORT The Orthopaedic Clinic 7925 Youree Drive, Suite 200

(318) 212-3610

BOSSIER Bossier Orthopedics 2449 Hospital Drive, Suite 200

(318) 212-7841

Find an orthopedic surgeon at Willis-Knighton

wkhs.com/ortho

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SB ART & CULTURE

BPCC Chancellor Dr. Rick Bateman Jr. presents KCACTF Region 6 Gold Medallion award to Dr. Ray Scott Crawford.

Photo: BPCC

DR. RAY SCOTT CRAWFORD: BRINGING HOME THE GOLD

A

s we close the book on another exciting Olympics, we applaud our fellow Americans who brought home medals. Think of the hours these athletes must spend training and honing their skills for competition. Making it to the Olympics is a proud moment and bringing home the gold is the highpoint of their career.

Here in Shreveport-Bossier City, we have a gold medalist— and although he is not exactly an athlete, one could draw a parallel between what he does and that of a trained athlete. The similarities will amaze you.

Bossier Parish Community College Dean of Communication and Performing Arts, Dr. Ray Scott Crawford, has been awarded the prestigious Kennedy Center Gold Medallion for Region VI during the 54th Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF).

Crawford found out about the award through an email and the timing could not have been more perfect. After performing the National Anthem at one of the Mardi Gras Bals, Crawford, all alone in his vehicle, happened to check his phone, and there it was: the notification that he would be the recipient of this honor.

“I was coming home from a Shreveport Mardi Gras event where at least a dozen of my present and former theatre students had worked as designers, technicians, and talent. I received the

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BY SEVA MAY

email announcing the award. I was happy and surprised for the honor, but mostly I was reminded of the wonderful opportunities that BPCC theatre and KCACTF have provided for our students,” Crawford recalls.

This is the highest award the festival gives and is considered a great honor in theatre education. Region VI covers Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Each year, the eight KCACTF regions honor individuals or organizations that have made extraordinary contributions to the teaching and producing of theatre and who have significantly dedicated their time, artistry, and enthusiasm to the development of the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival.

With theatre degrees from Louisiana Tech and Texas Tech University, and a dozen years of professional work in and around the Chicago area, Crawford has taught theatre performance, directing, management, and applied voice at BPCC for almost 24 years. He helped establish the Associate of Arts degree in Theatre, along with Stephen W. Slaughter, shortly upon his arrival at the school. The degree continues as the AA in Performing Arts (with concentrations in Theatre and Music) as the only two-year theatre degree offered in the state. He was promoted to dean of Communication and Performing Arts in 2012 but has continued teaching and directing plays and musicals for the school all during his tenure.

For KCACTF, Crawford has served as a regional respondent, traveling to Arkansas, Texas, and within Louisiana to evaluate and respond to other college and university theatre productions hoping to be considered for presentation at the regional festi-

val. For BPCC, he has coached dozens of performers and singers in the regional Irene Ryan acting and Musical Theatre Initiatives (singing) scholarship competitions for KCACTF. Many of his students have been finalists. He has also entered numerous shows in festivals in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Texas. BPCC’s productions of The Woman in Black, Echoes, The Turn of the Screw, and A Texas Romance all received the highest recognition at the state level. The Turn of the Screw went on to garner top honors regionally and to become one of the top five productions in the nation at the National KCACTF in 2016, with Crawford as Distinguished Director.

This summer Crawford begins his 37th year as Artistic Director of the Canterbury Summer Theatre in Michigan City, Indiana. Each year he offers professional opportunities to many, including BPCC students, some of whom he hires as talent and technicians for the whole season.

Others who are the cast and crew of the summer show at BPCC are hired to tour the production to the Canterbury at the end of the summer to com-

plete the season. “It’s a win for both the Canterbury and for BPCC,” Crawford says, “as the Canterbury gets an additional show for the summer and the students get a professional gig.”

In April, the Performing Arts Program at Bossier Parish Community College will premiere The Rat’s Tale of Cinderella, an all-new, fairytale children’s musical. Rat’s Tale is one of almost three hundred theatre productions directed by Crawford, which has provided opportunities for innumerable students and young theatre professionals from all over the world. While his resume may reflect his accomplishments (all eight pages), it certainly cannot describe all the hurdles he has had to jump or the rehearsal marathons he has had to run. Although he did not get to stand on a podium on national television (the ceremony was virtual), he was surrounded by a host of his peers, students, and close friends. Shreveport and Bossier City is proud of his accomplishments and happy for this achievement.

About The Rat’s Tale of Cinderella This sparkling princess production – adapted by Crawford – tells the familiar story of a mistreated young woman whose life is transformed through magic, love, and her own grit and determination. Audiences will be excited to experience this well-known story told with a nod to Louisiana Mardi Gras culture through the point of view of the animals. Join the Rat Brothers, Alphonse and Gaston as they narrate their version of the story!

Brimming with physical comedy, funny jokes, interactive Q&As, and astonishing theatrical effects, The Rat’s Tale of Cinderella includes everything you can think of that makes a show fun for children of all ages: ridiculous stepsisters, a magical and kooky fairy godmother, a beautiful ball, helpful animals, and of course a new twist on Cinderella’s shoe that gets left behind with a handsome prince.

The show opens on April 22 and will run on the 23, 29, 30 at 7:00 p.m. and April 24 and May 1 at 2:00 p.m. The Rat’s Tale of Cinderella is for children of all ages. Call 318-678-6021 for tickets.

Or visit www.ticketsource.us/bpcctheatre for online reservations.

SHREVEPORT METROPOLITAN BALLET PRESENTS

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Supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council, as administered by the RAC. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. Supported in part by a grant from the Shreveport Regional Arts Council with funds from the City of Shreveport.

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Experience Shreveport’s Best Communities New Home Sites Now Available PROVENANCE

PROVENANCE

PROVENANCE

PROVENANCE: Award-Winning Traditional Neighborhood Development on Southern Loop

THE GROVE AT GARRETT FARM: A New Gated Community on Wallace Lake Road

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MARCH 2022 | SBMAG.NET All information contained herein is believed to be accurate, but is not warranted and no liability of errors or omissions is assured by either the property owner or Provenance Realty Group or its agents and employees. Prices as stated herein and product availability is subject to change and/or sale or lease without prior notice, and all sizes and dimensions are subject to correction. [3.2022]

SB HOME FEATURE

Look inside. These contemporary design elements offer new life and a modern twist to the traditional homes in Provenance— making them anything but your mother’s house!

BY ADAM BAILEY

S

hreveport. Provenance is one of South Shreveport’s most unique communities.

Its idea is simple—bring the traditional neighborhood back to Shreveport.

But what exactly is a traditional neighborhood development? Also known as a TND, it is a new urbanism concept where homes, commercial spaces, parks, offices, restaurants, and other conveniences are in close proximity to provide a strong sense of community and walkability. Part of “getting” what a TND is, is understanding that the architecture of the homes is part of the quality of life in the neighborhood. Therefore, living and working in Provenance means a life less ordinary.

And though Provenance is wellknown for its “traditional” heritage and architecture, who doesn’t love a new contemporary home for its smart design and curb appeal.

Contemporary living adheres to a few principles that define its simple aesthetic—open-floor plans, clean lines, minimal clutter, and a neutral color palette. These elements are key to a serene and sophisticated lifestyle, and general wisdom says that when you elevate a home, you elevate your life. Today’s architects and designers continue to push the

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envelope and reimagine how to live by using tight angles mixed with curved surfaces, floor-to-ceiling picture windows, and innovative design. This new-construction home in Provenance is no exception.

Alison McKenzie of Medina Interiors opted to break from tradition, using a more modern approach for her latest project. “On the whole, new construction is going more contemporary,” McKenzie admits. “My client, Jason Kirk, wanted to build a home that embraced an overall fresh feel with clean modern lines yet was still warm and welcoming. Most importantly, it had to work for his family. As a mom myself, I fully understood the importance of creating spaces that everyone could enjoy.”

Why Provenance? Aside from beauty and charm, McKenzie says Jason was clear on how the neighborhood provided a better quality of life for himself

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and his family. “My job was to design a home for a single dad that reflected that! I opted to embrace a relaxed Louisiana vibe with a modern twist. It’s like a breath of fresh air, and a warm hug all in one. But, most importantly, I wanted to help design a home with an open layout and soaring ceilings that contribute to a comfortable living on the inside and out.”

McKenzie and her team worked alongside architect Bennett Sabatier and homebuilder Matt Jenkins, who from the start really jumped on board with the overall goal and, who the designer credits, were both equally an integral part of bringing her client’s vision to life. “We truly functioned as a team, and because of that we were able to avoid any challenges along the way,” she says. “We added character through custom built-ins, geometric tile and various custom tile patterns throughout the home—all which were layered with warm textures and a soothing color palette.”

The house’s shape fits within its setting, appearing to grow from the ground itself. That means fewer hallways and tiny, wasted rooms. Its open floor plans afford more useable space—the kitchen that opens to the den and dining areas. An abundance of glass and doors—designed to open and disappear—bring the outdoors in. Here, efficiency is key.

McKenzie reemphasized it was the teamwork that made it all happen. “I am so proud of the collaboration of everyone involved on this project. The whole team was able to create a beautiful home that not only reflected the client’s personal style, but one that he can enjoy with friends and family for many years to come.”

Step inside to see all the details.

Distinctively Detailed Entry Taking advantage of modern performance with a traditional aesthetic, the entry creates a calming space that everyone can enjoy.

Given its first impression a visitor will have, the material and furnishings of this entryway set the stage for home’s overall tone and vibe. “When you walk through the front door, you are greeted with the warmth of the natural light streaming through large windows. We carried the white and black in from the exterior as our base and used a combination of boho accessories, natural textures, and live greens to infuse the residence with a sense of personality and whimsy but overall, the quiet monochromatic palette, clean lined furnishings and contemporary forms keep the ambience hip and sleek.”

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Mixing Metals “When working on a kitchen, classic is key,” states McKenzie.

She believes the forces of fashion and trends have begun to push back the pendulum towards neutral colors. Yes, whites and greys are popping up and appear in color forecasts and are seen in many fashion and furniture production runs. “If you want a space that’s truly bespoke and unique to your family while having the wide appeal and resale value—it’s in those base colors, the whites and the greys, that you should start your journey.”

“Furthermore,” she adds, “mixing metals is the wave of the new traditional. In this kitchen, there are antique pewter faucets and fittings, stainless steel appliances, and brushed brass hardware.” She commented on how her client loves to cook so she chose top of the line Thermador appliances, custom-designed crisp white custom cabinetry, and quartz countertops for durability with light wood flooring for a natural warm feel. “We wanted an open, clean yet functional kitchen design.”

A Colorful Palette The dining room is not the place to skimp on style, and the balance of light plays a huge role throughout this space. “From the size of the tabletop—which adds just enough natural interest without being overpowering—to the size and scale of the light fixture; it was all important since we were working with tall ceilings and windows, I wanted to make sure it felt balanced.”

The round dining table suits Jason’s easy, everyday style. It’s inviting and puts everyone on equal footing since there is no hi-

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erarchy at either head of the table. The simple skirted chairs, along with the artwork, steal the show and provide warmth to this modern, trendy space.

Powder Bath Small bathrooms are the perfect place to take risks.

Here, one can easily get inspired by wallpapers, minimalist vibes, eclectic materials, and unexpected elements. “This is one of my favorite spaces to get really creative!” says McKenzie. “It’s often overlooked in design, but it’s actually one of the most important rooms in the house. This wallpaper made this small space come alive.”

If you’re into taking risks, that’s exactly what McKenzie did—in order to keep the room masculine yet fun. “We decided to go with a floating vanity to make the room feel a little larger instead of a vanity that goes all the way to the floor.”

A Designer’s Dream McKenzie’s success in designing a home that both meets Jason’s expectations and satisfies the property's local reputation is attributed to her adherence to marrying Kirk’s lifestyle with appropriately scaled and proportioned design, respecting the cultural and historic landscape of the neighborhood and, finally, accommodating his future generations.

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McKenzie further believes that, as a designer, her job to find the true essence and style of Jason Kirk, elevate it, and make his home reflect that style. “My goal is to continue to have amazing clients, such as Jason, that inspire me to create something that makes him feel excited to come home.” To McKenzie, Jason’s new home in the beautiful Provenance neighborhood was an interior designer’s dream job. After discussing all of Jason’s needs and dreams, she was given free reign.

The end result speaks for itself.

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MANOLOGY

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BET TER M AN

A gentleman is one who values hospitality, generosity, intellectual curiosity and, yes, chivalry. Day-in and day-out, all gentlemen should seek to incorporate these traits into their lives. To take it a step further, all of these characteristics can be found, honed, and showcased in the most unlikely of places—the kitchen.

BY ADAM BAILEY

side on the grill. To play off the title of one of Hemingway’s memoirs—A Movable Feast—a kitchen is anywhere you hang your cast-iron skillet.

verybody knows that fast food is an easy, convenient, and generally inexpensive way to stay fed. But it’s also a great way to fill the body with a bunch of unhealthy crap. Want to be a better man? Cooking real food takes time, effort, and skill. Plus, ladies love it— trust me on this one.

Hospitality. Cooking and sharing food with others allows you to perfect this centuries-old practice. Inviting others into your home to sit and enjoy a meal cooked by hand is one of the most simple yet fulfilling forms of hospitality. Your kitchen should serve as an open invitation to friends, family, and strangers—it’s a place to celebrate the joy of friendship, the miracle of birth, the sting of loss, or the settling of differences. Breaking bread with others is one of life’s most primal instincts. It fosters tradition and community, and creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere in your home.

Adventure. Cooking should be viewed much more as an adventure than a task. Whether you are fishing, hunting, or simply acquiring goods at the local market—much of the thrill that comes from cooking lies miles away from any stovetop. The idea of spending more time in the kitchen is all relative. Yes, typically it’s in the home—but, too, it can be on the road, a field at a hunting camp, or out-

Generosity. Generosity is defined as the habit of giving without expecting anything in return. And people often showcase this habit to others by the sharing of gifts— whether it be money, talent, or time to help aid and serve others. The key component is giving freely— without expecting anything in return. Cooking and the sharing of food can easily provide a daily platform to exhibit gener-

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osity to others. And while generosity is most often connected to serving up generous portions of food to friends and family—don’t forget it, too, can be about teaching your talents so that others might also reap the same rewards.

Intellectual Curiosity. I’m of the mindset that we—as a society—are at our best when we constantly challenge and educate ourselves. No matter how much is studied, learned, practiced, and repeated—no one should ever be able to quench their desire to stop learning! It’s that intellectually curious attitude that should keep us exploring and learning in the kitchen. Cooking offers an autonomous and never-ending challenge to continue to study and evolve. New ingredients, types of cuisine, techniques, and equipment create opportunities for each of us to challenge ourselves. Learning the nuances and complexities of slow-smoking a pork shoulder, or tenderloin, is just as manly and stimulating as finely tuning a carburetor on a motorcycle.

said heart. To answer your next question, yes, this can be done in the kitchen!

One of the simplest ways to express one’s love and care to a woman is by serving her food prepared by your own two hands. A home cooked meal is just one of the many ways that a man can let a woman know he cares about her. What woman doesn’t love a man who can cook?

Chivalry. Good behavior and social practices help remind men to open doors, offer up their seat, and stand when a lady enters the room. Still, these are only the outward actions of being a good gentleman; how often do we put them into practice? To truly practice chivalry, one must pursue, understand, and fulfill the heart of a woman.

Men must take on a bit of adventure and risk to pursue

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SB PEOPLE

sing before in Minneapolis,’” she recalled.

MARILYN

PETTIETTE The Musical Life

M

The Benedictine nuns at the Parish of Our Lady of Lourdes in Little Falls, Minnesota, gave Pettiette her first lessons on the piano. She received instruction in the organ from the Franciscan nuns at St. Francis High School. She continued her studies at the Minneapolis College of Music. She met entertainers there who introduced her to improvisation and jazz. Before long, she was performing in big bands throughout Minneapolis.

That’s also where she met her husband, saxophone player Larry “Tex” Pettiette.

“Here is this guy who’s playing sax,” she said. “I didn’t know him well. But there was a band my friend and I wanted to hear playing at this club. Back then, women didn’t go to clubs unescorted. I approached him and asked if he’d escort us to this club. I guess you could say I asked him out for our first date.”

BY SCOTT ANDERSON

arilyn Pettiette is the 90-year-old matriarch of a modern-day von Trapp family, spreading a message of faith, hope and joy through song in cyberspace.

Pettiette and her family have a YouTube channel called Three Generations Singing.

The channel features family members — actually from four generations — singing holiday favorites, popular tunes, jazz standards and more. In five years, the channel has grown to almost 100 videos and nearly 1,800 subscribers and more than 1 million views.

It all started with Pettiette singing Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” with her daughter, Julia Pettiette Doolin, and her grandson, Sean Doolin. At first, the concept was simple — to create a special memory for the family. Sean wanted to sing with his grandmother. Julia already was working with videographer Brent Latin on a project, so she asked him to record the trio.

“People thought it was so beautiful,” Julia said. Soon after that, granddaughter Kelleen Doolin stepped up and wanted to do a number with her grandmother too. So they recorded “River.”

“That’s when we said, ‘Let’s get all the grandkids in a video,’” Julia said. “That Christmas, everyone comes in. There were probably about 30 of us. We did our first family group recording. Now, every Christmas we do one.”

Pettiette finds a great deal of satisfaction in the success of the channel. “It’s extremely gratifying,” she said. “My whole reason for being… I see it expressed when Sean starts singing. And now the little ones from the next generation (to include great grandson Howell) want to play the piano and sing.”

The family revels in their success. But by no means has it happened overnight for Pettiette. She began performing as a young child, about 4 or 5, on stages in Minnesota. “The church had programs going on constantly,” she said. “Music was a given.” As a child, she also performed as a Shirley Temple lookalike. Pettiette remembers a bit of controversy over a talent show she won when she was 7 or 8 years old. “This guy comes in and says, ‘She’s a professional. I’ve seen her

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David Pettiette, Jr., Julia Pettiette Doolin, Howell Pettiette, Marilyn Pettiette, Baby Theo Pettiette, Tim Doolin, Larry Pettiette, Jr.

She and Larry got married. During her early days of marriage, Pettiette continued to perform in big band groups. Sometime later, a producer called her looking for someone to fill in on the “Phil Silvers Top Banana” stage show. “He said, ‘I’ve got to have somebody who is small enough to fit into the wardrobe,’” Pettiette said.

“I said, ‘I’m sorry, I can’t. I am three months pregnant.’”

Pettiette also saw the music business changing at that time. The popularity of the big bands was waning. With her star no longer on the rise, she told her husband she wanted to move to Shreveport to check out a new musical sensation. “People went whippy over that Hank Williams,” she said. “That shut the big bands down. We came to Shreveport to see what it was all about and to be closer to Larry’s family in Texas.”

Pettiette began a 23-year career teaching music in the schools.

“I found talent galore out there,” she said of her students. Even now the family occasionally reconnects with someone who learned music from Pettiette. “We will see someone in the grocery store, and they will recognize her and say, ‘Your mom had such an in impact on my life,’” Julia said. “Music really is what brings people together.”

cause of the people and the music.”

That unifying power of music is what carried the family when they moved out to Dixie in northern Caddo Parish. “We moved under dire circumstances,” her daughter noted. “But they became some of the most wonderful times in our life be-

Pettiette founded the Young Americans while in Dixie. The group included her own six children and children from that rural farming community. “Everybody in Dixie wanted their kids in it,” Pettiette said. “I was thinking, ‘What am I out here for?’

And then I find all this talent out there.”

Pettiette took those neighborhood kids to perform at nursing homes, the VA hospital, and for shut-ins across the area. They even made an appearance on Bob Griffin’s Saturday morning television show “Bob and His Buddies.” “It identified us as a musical family,” Pettiette said. “And it never left us.”

The family moved back to Shreveport. The children grew up and started families of their own. Now Pettiette’s clan spans four generations and the country. But the family that sings together, clings together. “It’s creating wonderful memories for our family,” Julia said. “We are so lucky to have these experiences with our mom.”

Three Generations Singing has grown momentum despite some

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challenges, including a fire that destroyed Pettiette’s home.

While they were rebounding from that experience, they shot some of the videos for the channel at Pendley’s Piano Gallery.

And the family searched high and low to find a 100-year-old piano they could borrow to get just the right honky-tonk sound for one of the numbers. Clearly, Pettiette is very particular about the pianos she uses for her videos.

Then there was the pandemic. “The channel really took off during COVID, especially when no one went anywhere for two weeks,” said Julia, who oversees the channel. “That’s when we made the most progress.”

The family is pursuing more opportunities to make progress and share their message of faith and family. “I dream of the day I open up the channel and see not just 1 million views on the channel, but 1 million views on the songs,” Julia said. “We are reaching a lot of people.”

The entire family encourages people to subscribe to the YouTube channel and to follow Three Generations Singing on social media @ThreeGenerationsSinging. Pettiette said it’s a message of positivity that people need right now. “We want to pull this out of people,” she said. “To get them to feel what I feel.”

And even at 90, Pettiette has no plans to slow down. “I’m going to do this as long as I am able to do it,” she said.

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

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SB PETS

PET RABBIT KEEPING YOUR

H A PPY & H E A LTH Y

BY HAILEY LAWSON

R

abbits are unique pets and are becoming more and more popular as house pets. However, many new pet rabbit owners adopt them without knowing the requirements to take care of them, and because of that, a lot of pet rabbits end up having preventable health issues. Like any pet, rabbits have specific needs in order to live a long, happy, and healthy life. So whether you’re deciding to or have already adopted a beautiful baby bunny, here are some tips to get you started and to make sure your longeared friend is in top condition.

SAFE INDOOR HOUSING Domestic rabbits are best kept indoors. They need the safety and warmth provided by living inside. House rabbits can live free-reign in a bunny-proofed room or rooms, confined within a puppy pen, bunny condo, or a large rabbit cage.

They should always have enough room to hop around and should be let out daily for a few hours of exercise. The primary location of your rabbit should never be isolated from you and your family. The family room or living room is an excellent place for your rabbit’s home.

BUNNY-PROOF YOUR HOME Rabbits like to chew on things. Rabbits need space to run around and explore; however, you need to make sure to keep your rabbit away from electric cords, household chem-

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icals, and house plants that could be potentially poisonous to your rabbit. To create a safe space for your bunny and to protect your belongings, you will need to bunny-proof your home. Cover electrical cords with flexible plastic tubing or lift them out of reach. You can protect your baseboards and furniture from being gnawed on with plastic guards. Just remember, your rabbit will basically try to chew anything and everything in their reach.

KEEP A FRESH LITTER BOX Rabbits generally have a natural inclination to pee and poop in one area. Set up a medium-sized cat litter box near their food and water bowls.

Use a rabbit-safe, recycled newspaper pellet litter on the bottom of the litter box. Do not use cat litter or wood shavings; these are not safe for rabbits. To encourage good litter box habits, place a layer of hay on top of the litter. Rabbits like to eat hay and poop at the same time.

FEEDING YOUR RABBIT A rabbit’s diet should be mostly hay and vegetables with some fruit as a treat. Do some research to determine which vegetables and fruits are rabbit safe. Never give a rabbit human processed food. You can also feed rabbit pellets, but these pellets should be supplemented with hay and fresh vegetables. A rabbit’s diet should consist primarily of hay. Fresh hay and water should be provided to rabbits at all times.

GROOM YOUR RABBIT Rabbits are naturally clean and wash themselves often, but you still need to groom them on a regular basis. It’s

important to brush your rabbit daily to remove excess fur because your rabbit could ingest it, which could cause serious digestive issues. Rabbits cannot cough up fur balls like a cat. Also, regular nail clipping is necessary because long nails can curl and grow into your rabbit’s paw or get snagged on something.

VET CHECKS Take your rabbit in for regular veterinary checkups.

The vet will check their ears, eyes, teeth, and gut to ensure your rabbit is in good health. Vet checks will help keep your bunny in tip-top condition and identify any early signs of disease. Also, consider spaying or neutering your rabbit. Spaying and neutering can reduce aggressive behavior and improve litter box habits.

There is nothing more fun for a home than a bouncing bunny. Rabbits are very sociable animals and love to spend time with their humans.

Their energy is contagious. As caretakers, we want our companion rabbits happy.

Understanding how your bunny experiences the world will help keep them happy and healthy in life.

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Women as Catalysts for Lasting Community Change

T

BY ELIZABETH BEARD DEAL

he Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier, Inc. has been serving the community for over 85 years. This non-profit organization of women is committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

The Junior League provides training to its members, develops and supports community projects, bestows grants to organizations in need, and gives scholarships to deserving high school graduates. Junior League projects include Mentoring Ambitious Girls to Inspire Change (MAGIC), Artist for a Day, Health Literacy, Super Safety Saturday, Safe Sitter, and the Red Apron Pantry.

To support its mission and projects, the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier is hosting the Third Annual Designer Bag Bingo fundraising event on April 21. The 2022 Designer Bag Bingo Chair is Amanda Dewett, and Assistant Chair is Catherine Simpson.

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Photo: Jennifer Bradford Photography

The “Girls Night Out” event pairs the fun of Bingo with designer handbags as prizes! Emcee for the evening will be Courtney Butts, Miss Louisiana 2020.

Attendees can enter a $25 Diamond Raffle from Sid Potts and $10 “Treat Yourself” Raffles for spa treatments, local art, restaurant vouchers, and more! There will be 10 rounds of Bingo. Prizes for the first nine are designer handbags, most donated by Dillard’s in Mall St. Vincent and Dillard’s in Pierre Bossier Mall. The Grand Prize is a Louis Vuitton “Graceful” handbag.

Win the 2022 Grand Prize!

In the past, the event has raised over $30,000. “We hope to exceed that amount this year,” says Dewett. “We are so excited about returning to an in-person event and grateful to all our supporters and sponsors. Grab your girlfriends and come out for a great evening!”

League members are devoted to serving the community and seeking projects in which they can have a measurable impact.

Members provide approximately 4,000 volunteer hours annually devoted to community projects, a testament to the Junior League slogan: “We are women as catalysts for lasting community change.”

April 21, 2022 — 6:00 pm “Your continued support of our events in turn supports our mission of promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Thank you for supporting the work of the JLSB.” – Sarah Giglio, President

Cocktails, Dinner, Raffles, and Bingo!

Horseshoe Riverdome

Tickets: $60 Individual; $600 Table of 10 jlsbdesignerbagbingo.eventbrite.com DESIGNER BAG BINGO SPONSORS PRESENTING SPONSOR Morris and Dewett Injury Lawyers LOUIS LEVEL Lindsey Pennington, MD Facial Plastics CINTAS Clarkes Jewelers SB Magazine PRADA LEVEL The Moppet Shoppe Lang Orthodontics Community Bank of Louisiana GUCCI LEVEL Republic Finance Progressive Bank L and Johnson Rental Properties and Investments, LLC Lee Davis CHLOE LEVEL BOM Bank A Brighter Smile Dental Care Debbie Angelo Please and Thank You Paper Company Waynette Ballengee HANDBAG SPONSORS Dillard’s Mall St. Vincent Dillard’s Pierre Bossier Mall

Junior League Board of Directors: Kezia Pigford, Melanie Peacock, Molly McInnis, Jennifer Pou, Margaret McDonald, Sarah Giglio-President, Courtney McBee, Carolyn Murphy Thompson, Chelsea Adcock, Alex Pearson, Michelle Wallace. Photo: Jennifer Bradford Photography

The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier, Inc. juniorleaguesb www.jlsb.org SBMAG.NET

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SHREVEPORT/BOSSIER E XCLUSIVE CONCIER GE

Jacqueline A. Scott

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

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

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www.ShreveportExclusiveConcierge

Generations of care

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Finding the best attorney for a particular legal issue is a critical decision, which is why SB Magazine annually presents a list of Top Attorneys in the Shreveport-Bossier City area for our readers.

To compile the 2022 Top Attorneys list, SB Magazine requested peer recommendations from local attorneys via mail and online ballots with the question, “Which Shreveport-Bossier City lawyers, of those whose work you have witnessed firsthand, would you rank among the current best?”

We also introduced a new category in 2022: People’s Choice Award for Top Attorney. These votes were collected via an online ballot on the sbmag.net website.

SB Magazine is pleased to present the individuals recognized on the 2022 Top Attorneys List.

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ATTORNEYS 2022

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Joshua K. Williams, Top Attorney List and People's Choice attorney

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Royal Alexander

Elizabeth Carmody

Lori C. Graham

Ethan P. Arbuckle

Paul J. Carmouche

Shelvia R. Grant

Thomas M. Arceneaux

Cynthia Carroll-Bridges

Whitley R. Graves

Brittany Arvie

Scott J. Chafin, Jr.

Jessica Greber

Louis Avallone

Joshua S. Chevallier

Britney Green

Lee Ayres

R. Clayton Christian

Joseph A. Gregorio

Jack Bailey, III

Joshua O. Clayton

Fernando Grider, Jr.

Jack Bailey, Jr.

Chaz Coleman

Richard E. Griffith

Chris Baker

Stephen T. Collins

Jeff Guerriero

Rachel Bays

J. Allen Cooper, Jr.

J.P. Guidry

Verity Gentry Bell

Mekisha Smith Creal

James Hall

J. Todd Benson

Stuart J. Crichton

Senae Hall

Kevin Berg

John Davis

Christian Hall

Nicole Berg

S.P. Davis, Sr.

William D. Hall

Kristen B. Bernard

Amy Gardner Day

Felicia M. Hamilton

Henry Bethard, V

Jerry Deason, Jr.

John L. Hammons

Summer Bluford

Valerie DeLatte

Elizabeth Hancock

John N. Bokenfohr

Justin C. Dewett

John R. Harris

Marianne Boston

John W. Evans, Jr.

Courtney N. Harris

Clinton Bowers

Daniel Farris

David O. Harville, Jr.

William C. Bradford, Jr.

Cornell R. Flournoy

William Haynes

Eron Brainard

Chris Forester

John O. Hayter, III

Donald L. Brice, Jr.

W. Jarred Franklin

Cary Hilburn

Meredith Bro

Ryan E. Gatti

Jennifer Hilburn

Christopher Broussard

Lynn Geneux

Treneisha Hill

Nichole M. Buckle

Sarah R. Giglio

D. Garrett Hill

Michael J. Busada

Katherine E. Gilmer

F. Weber Hill

Mary Lou Bylsma

Daniel Gordon

W. James Hill, III

Nelson W. Cameron

Stephen Gordon

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Andrew Hodges

Brittany McKeel Young

Wilbert Pryor

Nicole Holmes

Charles Taunton Melville

Rebecca S. Luster Radford

Brian A. Homza

Monique Metoyer

Frederick Ratzburg, II

Sarah Hood

J. Christopher Miciotto

Audrius M. Reed

Dorothy Jackson

Mark J. Miciotto

Joel A. Rice

Patrick Jackson

Ronald J. Miciotto

J. Marshall Rice

Shan Jackson

John Milkovich

Kyle M. Robinson

Alonzo P. Jackson, Jr.

George H. Mills, Jr.

Justin Cole Sartin

Charles Jacobs

Patricia Miramon

Jacqueline A. Scott

Richard John

David Moore

Zach Shadinger

Eric G. Johnson

Kyle Moore

Curtis R. Shelton

Todd M. Johnson

Trey Morris

J. David Shepherd

Ginger West Johnson

Gordon Mosley

Clinton Simon

J. Marshall Jones, Jr.

Lance Mosley

W. James Singleton

J. Ransdell Keene

Edward Mouton

Kimberly Smith

William F. Kendig

William W. Murray, Jr.

Ronald D. Smith

Damon D. Kervin

J. Chancellor Nerren

Randall Smith

Pamela King

Meghan Nolen

Craig Smith

Sarah Kirkpatrick

Ebonee Rhodes Norris

Jennifer N. Soto

Gia Kosmitis

Anna O'Neal

Frank H. Spruiell, Jr.

Glenn Langley

Sandra James Page

Christopher M. Stahl

H. Lyn Lawrence, Jr.

Stephen J. Paine

Allie Aiello Stahl

Trinicia Leonard

Julianna Petchak Parks

Ron Christopher Stamps

Lisa D. Lobrano

Santi Parks

Alan Stegall

Kelly Long

Mark Perkins

Ryan P. Telep

William R. Long

Marshall Perkins

T. Luke Thaxton

Dannye Malone

Larry Pettiette, Jr.

J. Dhu Thompson

Schuyler Marvin

Nyle A. Politz

Julia Miramon Todd

Kyle McInnis

Josh Powell

Heidi A. Trant

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Zelda W. Tucker

Kammi R. Whatley

Sherron Phae Williams

Yves M. Verret, III

Jacob C. White

Aaron R. Wilson

Becky Vishnefski

Walter D. White

Mary Winchell

Alexandra E. Vozzella

Eric M. Whitehead

Richard D. Woolbert

Alex Washington

John R. Williams

Timothy R. Wynn

Victoria Washington

Stacey D. Williams

Shante Wells

Joshua K. Williams

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ALAN STEGALL ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������91

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CRAIG SMITH ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 100

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THE LAW OFFICE OF ALLEN COOPER, L.L.C.

5 5 1 K I N G S H I G H WAY • S H R E V E P O R T, L A 7 1 1 0 4 • 3 1 8 . 8 6 5 . 5 2 9 1

P A M E L A K I N G N E W L E N, C H R I S B R O U S S A R D, A L L E N C O O P E R , C H R I S M I C I O T T O

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T H E L AW O F F I C E O F A L L E N CO O P E R WORKERS COMP PERSONAL INJURY SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

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hen people aren’t in a position to help themselves - that’s when The Law Office of Allen Cooper, LLC steps in to provide the HELP they need.

ALLEN COOPER of Shreveport, graduated from Caddo Magnet High School in 1984 and later attended LSUS, where he was named the Outstanding Student in his major. After graduating from college with honors, he attended law school at LSU Law Center in Baton Rouge. In law school, Allen received the AmJur Award in Insurance for receiving the highest grade in insurance law. He was also named to the Chancellor’s List. Allen is now in his 30th year of practicing law. He was recently given the highest peer review, category rating awarded

by Martindale Hubbell, a legal information service organization founded in 1868.

Throughout his 30 years of practicing law, Allen has made it his mission to help people who are injured or disabled. He helps people injured in motor vehicle collisions, people injured due to falls, people injured by falling merchandise, and people injured in on-the-job accidents. He also helps those people that are disabled and seek Social Security Disability benefits. Allen practices primarily in the areas of Workers’ Compensation, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice and Social Security Disability.

When not busy at the office, Allen loves spending time with his family. He is married to Kim Leone Campbell Cooper. Together they have five children, Hayley, Zack, Tyler, Chance and Kaylee.

They also have an Australian Shepherd named Ace and a Yorkie Poo named Obi. CHRIS MICIOTTO has been named one of the top lawyers by SB Magazine in multiple years, practicing in the areas of auto and truck accidents, workers’ compensation (on-the-job injuries), criminal defense, and Social Security Disability. He was born and raised in Shreveport, where he attended high school at Loyola College Prep. Chris received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisiana-Monroe (1993) and his law degree from Oklahoma City University (1997).

Chris strongly believes in giving back to the community. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling and has worked closely with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office to provide assistance to those in the legal community suffering with addiction. Chris also serves as a mentor to individuals battling drug, alcohol, gambling, and other addictions.

Chris, who lives in Blanchard with his wife Christie, enjoys helping his clients through a difficult time. “Our clients come to us because they need help, whether it’s a car wreck, an on-thejob accident, or other cases,” says Chris. “It’s an honor to represent our clients, many of whom have just suffered through one of the most traumatic experiences of their lives,” added Chris. “It’s

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a great feeling to receive a hug and a ‘thank you’ from a client after helping them reach a resolution to their case. It makes working all of those long hours and weekends worthwhile.”

PAMELA KING NEWLEN is not your “typical” attorney. Pamela decided to pursue her law degree at the age of 34. Prior to law school, Pamela spent ten years working in the land management and insurance field. She went to law school with the expectation of advancing her career in those fields. However, during Pamela’s time in law school her motives changed. Pamela became passionate about helping those in need and prides herself on working to protect the rights of her clients along with her ability to guide each client through the litigation process.

Pamela became a notary public in 2008 and obtained a bachelor’s degree from Louisiana Tech University in 2012, where her focus was on business administration. Pamela also holds an individual producer insurance license for life, health, accident and title.

Pamela conducted her post-graduate studies at Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, during which time she held the position of vice-president of the Tax Law Society. She also served as the law center’s site coordinator for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program and volunteered at the Baton Rouge Family Court Self Help Resource Center. Pamela graduated with her Juris Doctorate in 2017 and was admitted to the Louisiana bar in 2018.

Pamela then began a solo practice where her primary focus was on family law. While in solo practice, she also worked as a contract attorney for the Shreveport Bar Foundation’s Legal Representation for Victims of Domestic Violence, where she represented victims seeking protective orders. Pamela left solo practice and joined The Law Office of Allen Cooper, LLC in 2019.

Pamela lives in Haughton with her husband, Josh, and their children, Kayleen, Morgan and Raegan. When Pamela is not working to protect the rights of her clients, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

CHRIS BROUSSARD was born in Orange, Texas in 1971, graduated from West Orange-Stark High School near the top of his class in 1989, received his B.A. in Political Science and a B.S. in Communication from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas in 1995. He received a Full Dean’s Scholarship to the University of Houston Law Center and graduated with a Doctorate in Jurisprudence in 1998. He was admitted to the Texas Bar that same year and practiced in Texas until moving to Shreveport in September of 2000. He was admitted to the Louisiana Bar in April 2001 and went into solo practice in 2002. He has extensive experience in the areas of personal injury litigation, family law, and criminal law.

In 2019, Chris left solo practice and joined The Law Office of Allen Cooper to continue fighting for the legal rights of the injured and disabled. He is married to Lori Broussard and has two children, Bay Berger and Jordon Davisson. Raised on union wages and a lifelong proponent of organized labor, Chris proudly battles for justice on behalf of working people.

551 KINGS HIGHWAY SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 318.865.5291 WWW.ALLENCOOPERLAW.COM SBMAG.NET

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R YA N E . G AT T I AT TO R N E Y AT L AW

needed until they graduated from High School. However, the passage of Katie Bug’s Law was a special accomplishment for a local family. This legislative experience, from drafting to final passage, benefits his clients with a unique perspective of the legal system.

SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS INCLUDING TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY SPINE INJURY CASES WRONGFUL DEATH WORK ACCIDENTS

Ryan is a graduate of Airline High School (1992) where he was valedictorian, Student of the Year, and Football Team Captain.

At LSU in Baton Rouge, he received his undergraduate degree in history, with a minor in political science. He also received Sophomore Honors Distinction and graduated in two years and nine months. Ryan served as President and Vice President of Kappa Sigma Fraternity at LSU and was inducted into the LSU Law Center Hall of Fame for his service as Student Bar President. Ryan is an LSU Law School graduate.

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yan Gatti and his staff are dedicated to personal service for their clients. Ryan has handled hundreds of cases and has collected millions of dollars for clients who are seriously injured. Ryan has practiced for over 22 years in Northwest Louisiana and has served as a Workers’ Compensation Judge and a State Senator. He has a unique perspective in representing his clients. The office is conveniently located at the corner of Benton Road and Shed Road in Bossier City with plenty of free parking.

Ryan was recently voted “Bossier’s Favorite Attorney” for the 16th year in a row by the Bossier Press Tribune’s Reader’s Choice Awards.

Ryan focuses on severe personal injury claims, including traumatic brain injury and spine injury cases, wrongful death and work accidents. Ryan represents clients in family law, workers' compensation cases and other civil matters.

As a father to a spastic quadriplegic daughter-a victim from an avoidable medical mistake during her birth-Gatti understands life before and after a brain injury.

Ryan has successfully handled 100's of Personal Injury and Worker's Compensation cases. In fact, from October 2007-November 2009, Ryan was appointed to serve a seven-parish area as a Judge for the Office of Workers' Compensation. On the bench, he presided over hundreds of trials and hearings. This experience benefits his clients with the highest standard of legal representation. During his service as a Workers' Compensation Judge, Ryan also completed training at the National Judicial College in Reno, Nevada.

Ryan served as a State Senator for Bossier, Webster, Claiborne and Bienville from 2016-2020. His election fell on the same day as a family mission trip to Haiti, so Ryan was elected while he was away. Ryan was active in the Senate, passing 22 pieces of legislation. Ryan donated his Senate salary each year to local charities. Ryan received a Life and Liberty Award for his legislation outlawing the sale of organs from planned abortions. Ryan received awards for his legislation helping first responders receive PTSD treatment without a long wait and cancer treatment for on-the-job exposures. Ryan’s legislation on foster care helped foster children maintain the help they

Nominated by the Judges of the 26th Judicial District Court, Ryan received the Crystal Gavel Award in 2013 for his pro bono efforts.

Ryan serves as President of the Bossier Parish Bar Association and served as Vice-President. He is a member of the Louisiana Bar Association, the Shreveport Bar Association, and the Louisiana Association of Justice (Louisiana Trial Lawyers Association). LSBA House of Delegates, 2014-2015; LSBA District 8 Regional Panel, 2014-2015; 2012-2013; Louisiana Trustee to the Ethics and Religious Liberties Commission.

Ryan served as a deacon and teacher in his church and as a volunteer coach for Dixie League Softball and Upward Sports.

He enjoys going on mission trips and has visited El Salvador, Haiti and Mexico. Ryan and his wife, Dr. Susan Gatti, teach High School Seniors at Cypress Baptist Church. They have four daughters: Katherine who is a Senior in TCU’s Fellows Program studying Business and Marketing; Elizabeth who is a freshman at Vanderbilt University studying Biomedical Engineering, and Charlotte, a middle schooler, who enjoys volleyball and gymnastics. Rebecca, the Gatti’s third daughter, passed away in 2017 after a 10-year battle with an avoidable birth injury. Rebecca’s story is chronicled at www.gattigirls.blogspot.com In their spare time, Ryan and Susan enjoy hosting and volunteering for Men of Courage, Women of Courage and Students of Courage. These local ministries gather once a month and strive to meet the needs of our local communities.

2123 SHED ROAD • BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA 71111 (D) 318.560.6587 • (O) 318.752.1012 • (F) 318.752.5720 RYAN@RYANGATTI.COM WWW.RYANGATTI.COM

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THE HALL L AW F I R M INJURY AND CRIMINAL LAWYERS 828 SHREVEPORT BARKSDALE HWY, SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 318.868.1246 WWW.HALLLAWLOUISIANA.COM

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For over 65 combined years our firm members have represented individuals injured in all types of accidents. In addition, the firm also represents those charged with a crime.

Life is made up of choices. William Hall made a significant choice almost 50 years ago that he has never regretted. He relates, “I was approached by a scared young man who was searching for an attorney. He had been injured in an auto accident and the insurance company had denied his claim. The man made HIS choice that day by asking if I could help him. I made MY choice that day that this profession is what I wanted to pursue – aid others in bettering their circumstances whether caused by accident or being charged with a crime.” The Hall Law Firm settled the young man’s case that day for full policy limits.

When an individual makes the choice for our firm to represent him in a criminal case, he is literally trusting us with his life. This is a responsibility that is never taken lightly. A previous client had been incarcerated for an extended period of time. After choosing to hire our firm we were able to obtain a jury trial date. We do not shy from court. The case was tried and the jury returned approximately thirty minutes after their deliberation.

The verdict was not guilty-the defendant went home with his father and brotherthat day. Choices are indeed important.

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For half a century The Hall Law Firm has represented parties in death, serious injury, and criminal matters. Our firm has a committee approach to each case where no less than three attorneys and a paralegal debate your claim or charge. This process determines the optimal approach for the success of your claim or defense. We are a local, hands-on firm with our client’s best interest at heart.

WILLIAM D. HALL William D. Hall graduated from Louisiana State University -Baton Rouge in 1970, with a B. A. in Psychology. He obtained his Juris Doctor in Louisiana Law from the Paul M. Hebert School of Law at LSU. Upon his return to Shreveport, he served as a law clerk to Judge R. B. Williams at the Second Circuit Court of Appeal and then entered private practice.

His practice consists primarily of representation of individuals who have been injured in accidents through no fault of their own, and the defense of individuals charged with committing criminal acts. Some personal injury cases have resulted in recovery of millions of dollars. All clients receive the same professional treatment in all cases.

Mr. Hall practices in all city and state courts in Louisiana and is admitted to practice before the United States District Court and the United States Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. He is a member of Shreveport Bar Association, the Louisiana Bar Association, Louisiana Bar Foundation, and the National Trial Lawyers Association and National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

In addition, Mr. Hall has been selected for membership in: •

The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 civil plaintiff

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Martindale-Hubbell AV preeminent

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National Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys 10 BEST ATTORNEYS

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Multi Million Dollars Advocates Forum

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Top 100 Litigation Lawyer in the State of Louisiana

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SB Magazine Top Attorney

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American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys-10 Best Attorney

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Attorney and Practice Magazine-Criminal Defense Top 10 Award

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National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys-Top 10 Louisiana

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Best of the Best Attorneys Top 10 Criminal Defense Louisiana

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Distinguished Justice Advocates Top 1% Attorneys in America

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Elite Lawyers of America-trial lawyer with verdicts of 2 million

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American Institute of Personal Injury Attorney-10 Best Louisiana

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American Institute of Trial Lawyers-PI Law Selection

Because of his deeply-held belief that a lawyer has an obligation to his community, Hall is a supporter of ShreveportBossier Community Renewal. He has served on the boards of the Shreveport Symphony, Shreveport Opera, the EnglishSpeaking Union, and the Demoiselle Club. He is a member and former captain of the Krewe of Justinian. He is a member of the Cotillion Club, Shreveport Club, and The Metropolitan Club of New York.

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Hall is married to Deborah Brewster Hall and they have three sons. He encouraged his sons to participate in sports and enjoyed coaching their teams in football, hockey, and lacrosse.

His family attends and are active members of St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral.

CHRISTIAN HALL Christian graduated from Southern Methodist University in Dallas and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and a Bachelor of Science degree in economics with a financial application. Upon graduation from SMU, he attended the Paul M. Hebert School of Law at LSU in Baton Rouge. As an LSU law school student, he also studied law abroad in Lyon, France. He graduated from LSU law school with a degree in Comparative Law and a degree of Juris Doctor in Law. Additionally, he completed an externship for the Federal Indigent Defender Board of the Western District of Louisiana in Shreveport and worked for a local law firm. Upon graduating from LSU Law School, he entered into a clerkship at the 1st Judicial District Court in Caddo Parish where he clerked for five district court judges during 2020-2021.

Christian is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and the Shreveport Bar Association. He attends St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral. He is also an active member of the Krewe of Justinian.

J. P. GUIDRY Jean-Paul “J.P.” Guidry is a proud cajun from Lafayette, Louisiana. J.P. is a graduate of LSU’s E. J. Ourso College of Business and LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center. He bleeds purple and gold. He has been recognized as Top 40 Under 40 by the National Trial Lawyers, which is extended solely to a select few of the most qualified attorneys from each state who demonstrate superior qualifications of leadership, reputation, influence, stature, and public profile.

He has won numerous cases before both judge and jury, focusing primarily on personal injury cases. Local defense attorneys have referred to him as a “dog” which he takes as a compliment (a reflection of his tenacity and zealous advocacy for his clients).

CATHY NANCE Cathy was born and reared in Shreveport, Louisiana. She serves as our paralegal and office manager with more than 23 years of experience in our office. Responsibilities include assisting clients, handling subrogation/liens, calendaring deadlines/scheduling depositions, drafting pleadings and providing critical support preparing cases for trial. She is essential in making sure all required payments are made to the necessary medical providers so there is no later recourse against the client. Cathy came to our office with considerable knowledge of medicare, medicaid, and health insurance subrogation. She enjoys spending time with her family, cooking and gardening.

The mission of The Hall Law Firm is to represent every client with persistent commitment and a relentless search for the best resolution.

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PERSONAL INJURY • WRONGFUL DEATH

ompassion, Respect, Honesty, and Integrity are our core values and principles at the Shan Jackson Law Group, LLC, said founder and lead attorney, Shan Jackson. From our relationship, respect and commitment to each of our clients, to honoring our community, and emphasizing the critical importance of fairness and equality in the legal system - attorney Shan Jackson remains true to her core values.

Rather than trying to be the largest injury law firm in the state or nation, the Shan Jackson Law Group is purposely structured as a local boutique law firm, dedicated exclusively to personal injury, wrongful death and other motor vehicle accident related matters in Louisiana.

Jackson is a Northwest Louisiana native, growing up in Belcher, Louisiana. “With that local focus, our clients can be confident that ALL decisions are made by legal professionals you know and most importantly, by people who know YOU,” said Jackson.

The Shan Jackson Law Group dedicates its expansive resources, experience, and efforts to providing the highest quality legal representation in Louisiana.

"Beyond her legal experience and skills, attorney Shan Jackson always keeps the focus on the best interests of her clients. She’s able to zealously advocate for her clients by illustrating they are real people with families and lives that were negatively impacted by the negligence of someone else,” said a former client of the law group.

“After an auto collision and injury, victims need an attorney and law firm that are fully committed to using their resources, advocacy skills and experience to fiercely fight for their clients,” she said. The Shan Jackson Law Group, LLC invests the necessary time in getting to know each and every one of their clients and their individual stories.

Jackson’s sole focus is representing individuals who have been seriously injured due to the negligence of others, including collisions involving 18-wheelers, automobile accidents, and oil field negligence. Jackson has successfully recovered millions of dollars on behalf of her clients.

The Experience Benefiting from her years of experience representing clients with serious and traumatic injuries, Jackson has developed an approach to serving clients that is personal and accessible for those who are making tough decisions for themselves or on behalf of their family members.

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down-to-earth and sincere demeanor — especially since they know she is also assertive and will fight to win.

Jackson and her team are committed to treating every case, no matter the size, like it is their most important case. “Being injured in an auto accident can be a very stressful experience; however, I am confident that injury victims will have peace of mind knowing that our experienced team of legal professionals will protect their rights and compensation.”

Jackson and her team have extensive knowledge and resources to handle the most complex auto accident litigation matters in state and federal courts.

Jackson is recognized for her committed advocacy and her unique ability to understand the individual needs of her clients. Former clients and fellow attorneys often refer legal cases to Jackson because she achieves remarkable results on behalf of her clients.

When seeking an aggressive and highly effective injury attorney, victims of auto collisions know they can count on attorney Shan Jackson.

Honor the Past Jackson feels blessed to have been afforded with the opportunities that have contributed to her success in the legal profession. She does not take any of these opportunities for granted as she knows that many civil rights leaders, clergy and others fought for the opportunities she has today.

Jackson believes in paying forward the blessings through numerous acts of gratitude including community service, giving to non-profit organizations and creating positive social changes. She supports numerous local churches throughout the Shreveport/Bossier area, and she and her staff participate in various volunteer and community outreach programs throughout the year.

Jackson is very active in the legal and civic organizations both locally and nationally. Locally, Jackson is a member of the Shreveport Bar Association, Harry V. Booth Judge Henry A. Politz American Inn of Court, Louisiana Association for Justice and Louisiana State Bar Association. Nationally, Jackson is recognized as The National Trial Lawyers – Top 40 Lawyers under 40 years old.

7330 FERN AVE., SUITE 501 SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 833.333.SHAN P: 318.620.0808 • F: 318.703.2847 WWW.SHANJACKSONLAW.COM

“The law provides strict rules for recovery in personal injury and wrongful death actions, making your choice of an injury attorney a crucial decision,” Jackson said.

“Our clients are our first priority and we strive to bring “recovery” in every sense of the word: physically, emotionally and financially,” said Jackson. Clients appreciate Jackson’s SBMAG.NET

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We appreciate and thank all of our clients and colleagues for trusting us with their case.”

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LAW OFFICES OF

DAMON D. KERVIN, APLC

7607 Fern Avenue, Building 203 Shreveport, Louisiana 71105 Tel: (318) 754-3492

PERSONAL INJURY & WRONGFUL DEATH

911 Julia Street Rayville, Louisiana 71269 Tel: (318) 728-3060

Louisiana and Texas

Our firm focuses on catastrophic personal injury and wrongful death cases. These cases include: • • • • • • •

18-Wheeler Crashes Car Crashes Offshore and Maritime Injury and Death Oilfield Injury and Death Construction Injury and Death Plant and Refinery Injury and Death Industrial Accident Injury and Death

My entire professional career has been devoted to serving as a trial lawyer representing victims.

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SHELLY HEBERT, RN MSN LEGAL NURSE CONSULTANT

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NURSING HOME NEGLECT

ia Kosmitis has represented victims of nursing home neglect, nursing home abuse and medical malpractice for over 30 years. Kosmitis Bond APLC have handled more successful claims against long term care corporations than any other law firm in Louisiana. “Our law office is dedicated to improving health care in our community and throughout Louisiana,” said Kosmitis, a Shreveport native who graduated from C.E. Byrd High School and went on to LSU and LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center.

acting as an advocate for victims of medical malpractice.

Avery is a graduate of C.E. Byrd in 2013, an LSUS graduate with a B.S. in Cellular & Molecular Biology in 2016 and an LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center graduate where she obtained her Juris Doctorate and diploma in Comparative Law in 2019. Avery's knowledge and grasp of the laws applicable aids clients to obtain the outcomes available under Louisiana law.

“Corporations that own nursing homes are making millions of dollars in profits while they are not providing basic care and failing to provide sufficient numbers of staff to meet the needs of their patients. We not only work to help victims and their families to fully recover,” Kosmitis said, “but we work to protect their rights and seek justice against corporations that seek to place profits over people.”

“Louisiana ranks the worst in nursing home care in the United States because there is little enforcement against these ill practices,” she adds. Kosmitis Law Office has battled against corporate lawyers all over the country and obtained judgement and settlements for the nursing homes’ abuse and neglect for all her clients. “I have a team that doesn’t give up,” Kosmitis said.

Kosmitis hired Shelly Hebert RN MSN as part of her team back in 1999. Hebert has passion, knowledge and experience making her an integral part of the office. Hebert earned a Bachelor’s of Science in nursing from Northwestern State University and a Master’s of Science in health care services management from Loyola University of New Orleans. She has been a registered nurse for 26 years and has national certifications in rehabilitation nursing and legal nurse consulting, and is also a fully trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) forensic nurse.

Having a nurse on staff in their law office allows them to serve their clients better and offers more reward for clients. They feel it is important that only valid claims be brought into the courtroom. “I love discerning the truth and helping others,” said Hebert. “I get to be an advocate of the truth. I love that serving as a consultant allows me to read and utilize my critical thinking. Through doing these things, I get to have an influence on health care in this community and hopefully improve both care and the patients understanding.”

Avery E. Bond, a partner in Kosmitis Bond APLC, has joined the team as a recent licensed attorney in 2019. Avery has a passion for the medico-legal aspects of the cases and

AVERY E. BOND ATTORNEY AT LAW Kosmitis, Hebert, Bond and the staff of Kosmitis Bond APLC are dedicated to serving their clients and are ready to help anyone who may have experienced neglect or abuse.

“Our clients are not just a name or another case. Our clients become part of our mission to help improve health care in Louisiana.”

3316 LINE AVE. • SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 318.865.9800 WWW.GIAKOSMITIS.COM

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KOSMITIS BOND

A Professional Law Corporation

SBMAG.NET | MARCH 2022 55 www.louisianamedmalattorney.com 318-865-9800

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THE NORRIS L AW G R O U P

“When clients come to our law firm, whether it’s a criminal defense matter or a domestic matter, those are the most fragile times in a person’s life,” Norris said. “Someone that really empathizes with whatever legal matter they have will be a better advocate for them in the legal system.”

CRIMINAL LAW • DOMESTIC LAW ESTATE PLANNING

In addition to her success in private practice, Norris is active in the community, serving on the Board of Directors for both Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana and the Robinson Film Center.

or Ebonee Rhodes Norris, practicing law was an easy choice — she was practically born to be an attorney. She is a native of Shreveport, and graduated from Caddo Parish Magnet High School and Louisiana State University in Shreveport.

Norris’s mother, Sharon, is a retired paralegal of 30 years.

Growing up in Shreveport, some of Norris’s earliest role models were lawyers and judges that her mother worked with.

In fifth grade, Norris was instructed to select a career person to shadow for a day at work. Norris picked a judge — one of the few African-American female administrative judges of that era. “It was so insightful to be able to learn from her and to interact with her,” Norris said. Having this interaction early in life solidified Norris’s belief that the only limits in her career would be those that she set for herself.

While obtaining her Juris Doctorate from Southern University Law Center, Norris clerked for the Louisiana Second Circuit Court of Appeals and the Louisiana Attorney General's Office.

Norris began her career at a non-profit law firm that defended the rights of low-income and elderly residents. She then moved on to a private firm, practicing in the areas of criminal defense, personal injury, estate planning, and municipal bonds.

A CLIENT-CENTRIC APPROACH Norris founded The Norris Law Group in an effort to take a client-centric approach to legal representation.

“Because law has always been my passion, I have held virtually every job within a law firm,” Norris said, “from an office runner, to a file clerk, receptionist, legal assistant, and even an associate partner in another law firm.”

“I have witnessed client interaction from all of those different vantage points, and I know the importance of client experience.”

“That’s what distinguishes our law firm,” she said. “Our clients are not just file numbers. We really try to form long-term relationships and bonds with them.”

THE VALUE OF EMPATHY For Norris, the issue was deeply personal. Growing up in a working-class neighborhood, she saw first-hand the impact of criminal justice and incarceration on her peers, especially children. Coming from a divorced household, she also knew the critical role domestic law played in children’s lives.

A SECOND CHANCE Norris is most proud of her expungement advocacy. She has partnered with the New Orleans-based Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana to provide free criminal-record expungement services for Shreveport residents.

“A lot of the people that we helped through the expungement initiative were young individuals who simply made mistakes,” Norris said. “Having a criminal record could have devastating consequences and adversely impact an individual’s employment opportunities, academic advancement, and housing.”

“Criminal expungements give individuals an opportunity to have a second chance,” Norris said.

In addition to assisting with expungement clinics, Norris has also helped draft proposed legislation for the Louisiana State Legislature, in an effort to automate the expungement process, making it quicker, easier, and — crucially — more affordable for qualified persons to expunge their criminal records.

Although the bill was unsuccessful in the most recent legislative session, Norris and her colleagues are gearing up to try again in the next legislative session.

“I believe everyone should be able to seal their criminal record without having to spend thousands to do so,” she said.

ABOUT EBONEE RHODES NORRIS Born and raised in Shreveport, Norris now resides there with her husband, John, her four-year-old daughter, Madeline Joy, her newborn twin sons, Saint John and Sire Robert, and her two Yorkies, Remy and Martin.

Norris’s accolades include American Institute of Trial Lawyers Litigator of the Year, Lawyers of Distinction recognition, The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 under 40, and National Black Lawyers Top 40 under 40.

6130 FAIRFIELD AVENUE • SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 318.771.7000 WWW.ATTORNEYNORRIS.COM

Norris vows to have an empathetic ear and be a tireless defender for all clients, including those that are facing domestic or criminal consequences. Married to her college sweetheart and a new mother of twins, her devotion to this calling has only increased. Her passion and focus have made her a respected force in criminal and family courts throughout Louisiana.

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A HEART OF SERVICE Rice & Kendig Injury lawyers have been serving North West Louisiana for over 30 years. Core values that guard our practice are justice, mercy, humility, compassion, truth, and growth. Our team members are driven by these values and have a heart to serve our clients. If you ask our team what their favorite part of their job is, they will tell you it is being able to truly help people and know that their work is making a difference in people’s lives. We believe that everyone who walks through our door should feel taken care of and leave with complete physical, emotional, and financial recovery.

Our care doesn’t just stop with our clients. We believe that it is our responsibility to share our blessings with our community. Our success has allowed us to reach out to our community in a variety of ways. We have had the opportunity to support a number of local charities and events from the Crisis Pregnancy Center to the Firecracker 5-K Race for Research. We also host community events at our office on Kings Hwy. Two of our biggest events are the Trick or Treat Drive-Thru and our Back to School Giveaway.

We have been able to reach hundreds of families through these events. There’s nothing we love more than the smile on a child’s face when they receive a brand new backpack or bag of candy!

Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on social so you don’t miss any of our upcoming events! Scan the code on the next page to find us on Facebook.

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Trick or Treat Drive Thru

Join us on Oct. 31st, 2022 for free candy, safety tips, and a fun experience for the whole family!

2

Child Passenger Safety Week

By partnering with the NWLA Transportation Safety Coalition we were able to help promote child passenger safety and give away free car seats to those in need.

3

Back to School Giveaway

Last year we were able to provide 250 students with a new backpack full of school supplies.

Join us for our next event on Aug. 1, 2022.

CLIENT

TESTIMONIALS

Ronnie R.

They’re awesome! From taking care of business, keeping you up to speed, and making sure you get the best treatment. Great staff. Would highly recommend.

Samarita W.

They were very professional, treat you like family and always make sure they kept me updated on what’s going on in my case. They fought to make sure I got what I deserve. Thank you Rice and Kendig law firm. I sincerely appreciate all of your hard work.

Sara H.

He took all the stress from being in a car accident off of me and made my life way easier during that time.

He also got me the best treatment for my injuries. I appreciate that he makes you feel as if you are his own family. You do not feel as if you are just another person walking in the door.

DON’T MISS ANY UPCOMING EVENTS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL

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You really c an’t comprehend justice unless you have be en direc tly confronted and af fe c te d by injustice.

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Voted and featured in SB Magazine Top Attorney 2002-Present.

We are here when life brings the unexpec ted and unthinkable.

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JACQ U E L I N E A . S COT T PERSONAL INJURY • CAR WRECKS WRONGFUL DEATH • WORK RELATED INJURIES SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT CRIMINAL LAW EXPUNGEMENTS 18 WHEELER/BIG RIG ACCIDENTS MEDICAL MALPRACTICE • PRODUCT LIABILITY MUNICIPAL BONDS • LICENSED MEDIATOR

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ew lawyers have the experience, victorious triumphs, achievements, and accomplishments—or overcome barriers—as Jacqueline Scott, founder and principal owner of Jacqueline Scott and Associates.

She uses her life experiences, endurance, knowledge, and spirit to turn negative situations into positive ones, helping each client with empathy and compassion, whether it’s a million-dollar injury or a criminal case.

Scott fiercely fights to defend liberty and taps her creativity in the pursuit of justice. “You really can’t comprehend justice unless you have been directly confronted and affected by injustice,” says Scott. “But one cannot use injustice, bad experiences, or poverty as an excuse not to chase your dreams.”

FIGHTING FOR JUSTICE SINCE AGE 5!

Scott rarely talks about the negative experience of growing up poor in a small alley in the Allendale community back in the 1960s but acknowledges that sometimes humble beginnings are the foundation of our growth as productive citizens.

Scott remembers an experience at the age of five when Shreveport police stormed her home in the middle of the night with flashlights and guns drawn. “They were looking for my older brother because someone had broken into the neighborhood store and stolen cookies. My brother was snatched out of the bed and taken to jail without any evidence,” she recounts.

My mother—a single parent of six—was helpless and could not afford to make the bail. My brother was only released from jail after someone broke into the store again a few days later. Because of his bad experiences in Allendale as a child, my brother left home for New York, never to return.

My family’s negative encounter with law enforcement caused me to fear police officers. Moreover, I refuse to steal because jail was no place for me. I grew up wanting to change the stigma of police officers. Consequently, a probation and parole officer for the state of Louisiana was my first job after college and later law school. My desire was to be a good example of law enforcement, help reform criminal offenders, and to lend a helping hand for second chances.

My firm helped raise over 200,000 for Shreveport police officers body cameras to help keep officers accountable.

Sometimes poverty or injustice keeps us from doing what is right; however, I was taught that everyone deserves respect and dignity. Injustice sometimes was a way of life in our community.

My mom always taught me to take a negative and turn bad things into positives, and to stay on the right side of the law. That’s what I’ve always tried to do in my career. Having honesty and integrity has resulted in great outcomes in just about every legal case be it civil or criminal.

Scott believes that the longevity of practicing law and building strong, trusting relationships is a key to success. To date she has served over 25,000 clients, and prides herself on offering competitive rates. Additionally Scott has expounded approximately 5,000 criminal records. Scott says she has been blessed, and with her blessing she can afford to give back by offering reasonable and negotiable fees to clients. “Since there are many offenders who cannot afford to pay for representation, I often find myself discounting fees to those in need.”

Scott is known for her ability to work personal injury cases, holding insurance companies accountable for taking advantage of individuals, resulting in the millions of dollars. She has also made her mark on the municipal bond industry by being hired to work on over a billion dollars in municipal bond transactions.

Scott has come a long way in achieving her dreams and is committed to helping others achieve theirs.

Scott’s affiliations and awards speak to her excellence in the practice of law and serving her community.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce - Minority Business Leader Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce – Board Member Louisiana State Bar Delegate Inns of Court National Women in Finance Member Louisiana State Ethics Board LSU Ochsner Board First minority bond lawyer in Caddo Parish and the City of Shreveport North Shreveport Business Association Louisiana Association of Justice American Bar Association 2022 Lawyer of the Year National Bar Association Nominated Super Lawyer of Louisiana Lawyer of the Year – American Institute of Legal Professionals America’s most honored professional as noted in the American registry Martindale-Hubbell Top Noted Lawyer of Louisiana National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Best Lawyers’ Association Notre Dame graduation American Association for Justice High rating in both legal and ethical standards Sponsor of gospel concerts Social Circle Lawyer of the year and more

“I would not be where I am, had it not been for Jacqueline Scott and Associates. I did the unthinkable. My family hired her, and she fought for me and got my record expunged. I now have my own business training famous people and owe Ms. Scott my life. Thank you.” — Kory Phillips, Lovely Bodies

SHREVEPORT, BOSSIER AND MONROE 318.746.5997 OR 800.660.5448 WWW.JACQUELINESCOTTLAW.COM WWW.MAKEEMPAY.COM SBMAG.NET

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T H A X TO N T I T L E , L LC L U K E T H A X TO N

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COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE LAW

veryone is excited when purchasing a home and for any kind of property transaction, you’ll want a title attorney to work with your team. Understanding the importance of having a reputable title company in a real estate transaction is the first step in making one of the biggest investments of a lifetime.

Shreveport native Luke Thaxton believes the most important part of the job in a real estate transaction is communication.

“Most people are not familiar with the process. It’s our job to research the title, prepare the legal documents to facilitate the transfer, and communicate with the other parties involved in the transaction. Our firm focuses on communicating to the client where we are in the process, at all times.”

The Thaxton Law Firm has been providing the crucial services needed for residential and commercial real estate transactions for over ten years. Working with clients, responding quickly and efficiently to their needs, and maintaining a higher standard has made for a successful practice. “I enjoy the people. I get to build relationships with so many people in our city, such as, realtors, lenders, and mortgage brokers, nurses, doctors, military, government employees, business owners, and teachers, for example.” He credits his team for working together to accommodate clients and form relationships.

A title search for the property you wish to invest in is only the beginning. It’s also one of the most important duties that provides a history of the rights and interests of your potential purchase. This may include: • • • • • • • •

Secondary or junior mortgages Lines of Credit Judgments Demands Liens Unpaid taxes Special assessments Other legal issues specific to the area

To ensure that the title is as clear as possible from any hidden problems, title insurance is essential. Protection from fraudulent ownership claims and any other unforeseen issues that may arise is a guarantee that you will be free from any risk.

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time ensuring everyone understands all the details of the transaction.”

Thaxton Title serves all of Louisiana including Bossier, Caddo, Webster, and DeSoto parishes. Working with Thaxton Title as a part of your mortgage closing process prevents you from encountering potential problems. Thaxton Title and Thaxton Law Firm goes above and beyond to uncomplicate an otherwise complicated real estate closing. By crossing all the “t’s” and dotting all the “i’s” as well as acting as a mediator between the buying and selling party, you can rest assured that all the necessary documentation will be signed, sealed and delivered.

Luke Thaxton graduated from C.E. Byrd High School, earned his Bachelor of Science from Louisiana state UniversityShreveport and graduated from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, Michigan. Upon graduation, Luke was admitted to the Louisiana State Bar, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, Western District of Louisiana, and the United States Court of Appeal, Fifth Circuit.

He has served as a Member-at-Large on the board of the Shreveport Bar Association, Member-at-Large on the board for the Louisiana Association of Independent Land Title Agents, Committee Member of the Louisiana State Bar Association Committee Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse, and is a past Executive Member of the Young Lawyers' Association of the Shreveport Bar Association.

Luke has served as President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Member at Large, and Chair of the Fundraising Committee for the Shreveport Bar Foundation, a non-profit organization formed with the purpose of performing charitable and educational services in the Shreveport and Bossier communities.

He was named to the 40 under 40 class of 2020, is a Board Member of Louisiana Independent Land Title Agents, and a Board Member at Aneca Federal Credit Union. Luke supports numerous local charities for our community and the military.

He has been married to his wife, Amanda, for 13 years and they have one daughter, Tegan.

Thaxton Title, LLC stands ready to make buying a home a memorable experience.

1325 BARKSDALE BLVD., STE 105 BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA 71111 318.383.1313 WWW.THAXTONTITLE.COM

From conducting a title search and issuing title insurance to serving as the closing agent for your transaction, Thaxton Title, LLC makes buying a home a little less stressful. Thaxton believes a Title Attorney should be someone who has great attention to detail, but also has the ability to be extremely personable. “At Thaxton Title, we make the closing process fun and enjoyable for everyone involved, while at the same SBMAG.NET

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L AW O F F I C E S O F J . D H U T H O M P S O N , A P LC PERSONAL INJURY • FAMILY LAW • NURSING HOME NEGLIGENCE FEDERAL, STATE & MUNICIPAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE

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hu Thompson, along with Associate Attorney Taylor Hipp and the staff of the Law Offices of J. Dhu Thompson, APLC, work hard and use the latest advances in trial practice technique to litigate their clients’ legal interests. Mr. Thompson has a diverse law practice and trial experience in criminal defense (securing the first not guilty verdict in a second degree murder trial in Sabine Parish in over 37 years), family law (successful custody trials involving parent and grandparent actions), business law litigation (currently represents the newly formed Shreveport Police Union), nursing home negligence (numerous settlements for wrongful death and abuse actions), and catastrophic personal injury cases (recent six-figure trial verdict in a wrongful death action). He has conducted over 100 jury trials in his career, including civil and criminal trials. He has further tried hundreds of custody cases.

The diversity of his legal experience allows him to litigate a variety of legal matters throughout Louisiana in Federal, State, and Municipal Courts. Mr. Thompson is also an appointed Hearing Officer Judge for the 5th Judicial District Court, where he presides and makes recommendations on child support, protective orders, custody, spousal support, and community property cases. Serving as a hearing officer complements his current trial practice, allowing him to view cases from the court’s perspective, which helps him to effectively advocate for his clients. In 2021, he presided over 400 family law actions centering on custody, spousal support, protective orders and community property partitions.

J. Dhu Thompson Mr. Thompson graduated from Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After graduation, Mr. Thompson worked for the Louisiana Department of Insurance. He then joined the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office as an assistant district attorney, becoming an original member of the Special Homicide Offender Targeting Unit. From 2004 to 2015, Mr. Thompson was an assistant district attorney in the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office, where he successfully tried hundreds of criminal cases, such as armed robbery, DWI, and murder. As a special assistant district attorney, Mr. Thompson successfully prosecuted many high-profile criminals, including Brian Horn, who was convicted of the heinous murder of young Justin Bloxom, and Michael Kevin Hailey, whose cases and prosecution were portrayed in the book Among Murder and Madness.

Mr. Thompson is also a lecturer at police academies, colleges, and local civic organizations on current law and liability issues. He is a member of the Louisiana State Bar, Shreveport Bar Association, American Association for Justice, American and Louisiana Association for Criminal Defense, and North Shreveport Business Association.

Taylor E. Hipp Taylor Hipp is an Associate Attorney at the Law Offices of J. Dhu Thompson. Taylor earned her Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Political Science at Florida State University, and then went on to earn her Juris Doctorate from Stetson University College of Law in 2015. While in law school, she was an editor for the Journal of International Wildlife Law and Policy and she interned with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Following law school, Taylor went on to earn her LL.M in Environmental Law from Vermont Law School in 2018. Taylor has a broad range of experience in environmental law, wills and trusts, guardianships, and in contract drafting and review, including in commercial and residential rental and leasing agreements, as well as construction contract agreements. Taylor is a valuable asset to the firm and assists with all domestic and criminal cases.

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THE LAW OFFICE OF CHRISTOPHER M. STAHL PERSONAL INJURY • CRIMINAL DEFENSE FAMILY LAW • WILLS AND ESTATES

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hristopher M. Stahl knows it's next to impossible to navigate the legal system alone. That's why he's there to step in and make the process less intimidating and stressful for his clients. "It's important to have an attorney and staff who return phone calls, e-mails, and consistently communicates with clients," Stahl said. "I work hard to develop a good rapport with clients to make sure they are advised of every possible outcome, and to keep the client informed as the case unfolds."

Stahl was born in Shreveport and raised in Minden, Louisiana. He attended Cedar Creek High School in Ruston, Louisiana, and obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration from Millsaps College in 2008. In 2012, after graduating from Loyola New Orleans College of Law, he was admitted to the practice of law.

He moved back to Minden to launch a solo practice before migrating to Bossier City, where his office has been located since 2015.

Stahl practices in a variety of fields, but focuses his practice on personal injury, criminal defense, family law, and wills and estates.

He actively works throughout Caddo, Bossier, Webster, DeSoto, Claiborne, and Beinville Parish. He works almost exclusively through word of mouth referrals, and has received glowing reviews from his clients for his accessibility, professionalism, and down-to-earth character.

Stahl is married to Allie Aiello Stahl, and resides in Bossier City with their three-year old daughter, Elizabeth. He is a member of the Louisiana Bar Association, Shreveport Bar Association, Bossier Bar Association, and Webster Bar Association.

He is also a member of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce and the Krewe of Justinian.

In 2017, Chris started the Kay Stahl Foundation in honor of his late mother. The organization provides monetary assistance to teachers for classroom essentials.

Stahl enjoys a thriving practice, and treats his clients' matters as his own. Stahl wishes to thank his staff, Jordan Chevalier, Ashley Courter, and Matthew Coleman for their hard work and dedication. Whether it be a delicate custody matter, or an intricate succession issue, Stahl and his dependable staff remain dedicated to the clients' needs and objectives.

707 BENTON RD., STE 200, BOSSIER 71111 318.746.5610 WWW.CMSTAHLLAW.COM

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THE LAW OFFICE OF YVES M. VERRET, III CRIMINAL DEFENSE PERSONAL INJURY • FAMILY LAW

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Louisiana native and veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Yves Verret obtained his B.A. in Criminal Justice from Northeast Louisiana University, and subsequently entered the work force, prior to attending Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he obtained his Juris Doctor.

Upon completion of law school, Yves moved his family to Shreveport where he began his career as a law clerk at the First Judicial District Court.

Yves maintains a thriving private practice—focused on criminal defense, DUIs, personal injury/motor vehicle accidents, as well as some oilfield contaminating matters—located at 3985 Airline Drive in Bossier City, Louisiana 71111.

“Every client matters to me, and I strive each day to communicate the same to clients through my actions, by zealously advocating for their best interest.”

In 2018, Yves expanded his practice by opening Sevy Title, LLC, located at 1000 Benton Road, Bossier City, Louisiana, 71111, providing Northwest Louisiana with title insurance and closing services for residential, commercial refinanced properties, as well new construction. For more information, contact (318) 900-SEVY(7389).

Through his life experiences and as a practicing trial lawyer, Yves has become acutely aware of the importance in hiring driven people with experience, who share his passion for helping those in need. “I am incredibly fortunate to have such great support staff. My paralegal, Brittany Tootikian, and legal assistant, Natalie Ballou, without question are a crucial component to my success.”

For his professional achievements and commitment to the betterment of Shreveport-Bossier City, Yves was nominated and subsequently selected as a member of “Shreveport-Bossier’s 40 under 40 class of 2012”. He has also been recognized on numerous occasions in SB Magazine’s annual “Top Attorneys” edition.

Yves is a member of the American Bar Association, the Louisiana State Bar Association, the Shreveport Bar Association, the Bossier Bar Association, the Louisiana Association for Justice, the Krewe of Justinian, and is also a member of the Marine Corp Association and the National Rifle Association.

3985 AIRLINE DR, BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 318.742.7474 VERRETLAWFIRM.COM SBMAG.NET

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WA LT E R D. (D O U G) W H I T E , A P R O F E S S I O N A L L AW CO R P O R AT I O N

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ESTATE PLANNING & ELDER LAW

alter D. (Doug) White, A Professional Law Corporation, was formed in 1991 and is focused exclusively on protecting the needs of the common man — hardworking, local families, that is — through estate planning and elder law. Mr. White provides various legal services to businesses and families in the North Louisiana area. He provides counsel and representation to new businesses, and provides litigation services to businesses in Northwest Louisiana and surrounding areas.

A native of Shreveport, Doug has been practicing law since 1981, providing assistance to families, protecting families, and providing for their needs in the areas of Interdiction Services. His expertise extends to Elder Law, Medicaid Planning, Powers of Attorney, Wills, Trusts, Probate, and Succession matters. With over 40 years of experience practicing law, Mr. White has come to understand that you don’t need to be wealthy or own multiple houses to take advantage of estate planning with a lawyer. Instead, estate planning is for anyone who wants to protect their family's financial and emotional needs.

A veteran of twenty-five years of military service, Doug retired from the Louisiana Army National Guard in 1999 and is familiar with veteran-related matters. He is a frequent lecturer in the areas of Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, and collection services for businesses. He practices in North Louisiana's local, state, and federal courts, is engaged in various services in the Shreveport locale, and serves as a Deacon in the Trinity Baptist Church in Shreveport. He is an attorney for the Alliance Defending Freedom and has served as Chairman of a Hearing Committee for the Louisiana Attorney Disciplinary Board. He has sat as an Ad Hoc Judge in Shreveport City Court for the past 20 years. He and his wife have been married for forty-nine years and are the parents of four children.

Doug’s goal is to offer resources for the future that provides families with the care, compassion, and peace of mind they deserve. His commitment to faith, family, and community has helped him earn the trust of many local families, and he will work hard to earn your trust too. Whether your needs are simple and straightforward or require meticulous attention, Doug is ready to meet with you, address your concerns, and tailor a plan that is unique to your family.

111 FREESTATE BLVD, SUITE 117 SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA 71107 318.213.9350 NLALAW.COM SBMAG.NET

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J O S H UA K . W I L L I A M S AT TO R N E Y AT L AW, L LC

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PERSONAL INJURY • CRIMINAL LAW oshua K. Williams was born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana. He is a 2003 graduate of Capt. Shreve High School. In 2009, Williams received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of New Orleans. He went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from Southern University Law Center in 2013. During his time at Southern University, Williams served as 3L Class Representative and the director of corporate relations for the Southern Region of the Black Law Students Association.

Williams was also a junior staff writer for the Louisiana Public Defender.

Williams was hired straight out of law school in 2014 by the late Caddo district attorney Charles Scott as a misdemeanor assistant district attorney in Judge Katherine Dorroh’s court. He spent five years fighting for victims and conducted over twenty jury trials as First Chair – resulting in a 96 percent conviction rate. Williams has presented at numerous continuing law enforcement trainings for the Shreveport Police Department and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office.

During his time at the DA’s Office, Joshua also maintained a part-time private practice where he primarily assisted clients in personal injury matters.

In December 2019, Williams transitioned into private practice fulltime. He now fights for injured parties as well as those charged with crimes across Louisiana.

Williams is an active member of the Louisiana State Bar Association.

He is a graduate of the 2016-17 LSBA Leadership Class, and served as the Eighth District Representative for the LSBA Young Lawyers Division from 2016-2020. Williams served as the 2021 Mock Trial chair for the SBA Young Lawyers Division. He also handles child in need of care cases in juvenile court.

He enjoys giving back to his community through several organizations, including Community Renewal International. He also supports Shreveport Parks and Recreation athletic and youth programs.

9284 LINWOOD AVE SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 P. 318.562.1140 • F. 318.562.1141 WWW.JOSHUAKWILLIAMS.COM SBMAG.NET

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E T H A N P. ARBUCKLE DIVORCE/CUSTODY ESTATE PLANNING PERSONAL INJURY

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than P. Arbuckle became a lawyer so he could help people. “I always shoot straight with clients,” said Arbuckle, a North Desoto High School graduate who went on to LSUS and then Southern University Law Center. “I keep them updated on their case and fight for them relentlessly.”

Helping people runs in his family. His father, Rodney Arbuckle, was Desoto Parish Sheriff for more than 17 years. Arbuckle makes sure he’s always available when needed.

“My firm gives clients the feeling of availability,” said Arbuckle, who’s at the helm of a general practice firm that focuses on divorce custody law, probate/succession law, estate planning law, and personal injury law.

“I know how frustrating it is when that aspect is missing from a business.”

At this point in his career, he can’t imagine doing anything else. “I never know what type of phone call I’m going to receive or who is going to walk through the door,” Arbuckle said. “Each day is a surprise.”

He credits his can-do attitude for his early success.

“I’m a people person,” Arbuckle said. “I’ve never met someone I couldn’t talk to. This helps me in my daily negotiations with other attorneys and prosecutors to ensure the best outcomes for my clients.”

He plans to grow his firm and continue to do what’s best for anybody who seeks his assistance.

“I don’t take my clients for granted,” Arbuckle said. “I treat them right – and it’s only a matter of time before that word gets around.”

Arbuckle is a member of the Desoto Parish Bar, the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys, and the National District Attorney’s Association. He is also an Assistant District Attorney in the 42nd JDC. He and his wife Aly have two sons: Decker and Lawson. He enjoys spending time with his family whether that be on the couch watching TV, outdoors playing, or sharing a meal around the supper table.

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671 HIGHWAY 171, SUITE L STONEWALL, LA 71078 318.775.4141 FACEBOOK.COM/ARBUCKLELEGAL WWW.ARBUCKLELEGAL.COM

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he Jack Bailey Law Corporation, better known as THE JACK PACK, is ready to take on the stresses of your legal matters so that you can focus on getting back on the right track! THE JACK PACK represents clients in Shreveport-Bossier City and the surrounding communities, including Arcadia, Homer, Coushatta, Mansfield, Minden, Gibsland, Haynesville, Springhill, and Oil City.

THE JACK PACK is comprised of a skilled team of trial lawyers who will be in your corner every step of the way. With experience spanning over three decades, we have thousands of satisfied clients and a remaining dedication to exhaustively researching and evaluating the cases we’re presented with.

You’re not just a number in the file cabinet with Jack Bailey Law Corporation.

Our injured clients deserve to have personal representation and consistent communication throughout the handling of their case and THE JACK PACK works tirelessly to settle your case and address every expressed concern.

THE JACK PACK is led by leader Jack M. Bailey, Jr., who has been practicing since 1977. His wealth of knowledge and experience has led to the honor of being awarded the title of one of “SB Top Attorneys” – an honor awarded to the Jack Bailey Law Corporation for numerous consecutive years. The entire team at Jack Bailey Law Corporation, including Jack M. Bailey, Jr., Jack M. Bailey, III, Mary Lou Bylsma, and Valerie DeLatte, feel honored to be voted by the public for this prestigious award and to continue fighting on behalf of the area’s residents.

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JAC K B A I L E Y L AW CO R P O R AT I O N PERSONAL INJURY MOTOR VEHICLE WRECKS – 18-WHEELER • CAR TRUCK • MOTORCYCLE WORK INJURIES – CONSTRUCTION OIL AND GAS • MANUFACTURING EVERYDAY OFFICE INJURIES SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE 2790 FAIRFIELD AVENUE SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 318.222.5200 WWW.JACKBAILEYLAW.COM

Legal cases are a maze to navigate, but they are especially challenging if tackled alone. Fight with someone on your side! Get in touch with THE JACK PACK team of lawyers today about the journey towards the benefits and compensation you deserve following an injury. We are ready for the challenge and are committed to creating solutions for you, as each case represents an opportunity to be the voice of justice for those injured.

If you have been hurt in a work-related accident or an automotive accident, get back on track with THE JACK PACK! SBMAG.NET

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EXPERIENCE MATTERS

55+ YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE REPRESENTING NORTH LOUISIANA CLIENTS

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t Evans & Franklin, John W. Evans, Jr. and W. Jarred Franklin offer a unique combination of personal experience, customer service and the art of negotiation in order to achieve a successful outcome for their clients. There can be many legal issues for which you need legal representation.

“We are committed to serving our clients by providing solid legal counsel based on our knowledge and experience, while paying close attention to every detail,” said Evans, a graduate from both LSUS and Southern University Law Center.

Born and raised in Bossier City, Evans is a descendant from the family of the city’s patriarch, Pierre Evariste Jean-Baptiste Bossier. His desire to help people and his tendency to never back down allow him to be successful when dealing with personal injury, criminal, family law and bankruptcy cases. He’s married to Geneva Evans and they have 3 wonderful children, Clare, Sarah and Will.

Franklin, a Shreveport native, received his law degree from Mississippi College School of Law. His private practice focuses primarily on criminal defense, family law, personal injury, medical malpractice, nursing home negligence, wills and successions and general civil litigation.

“We know the law, we know how to argue the law, we think outside the box and we know how to get favorable results,” said Franklin.

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E VA N S & FRANKLIN CRIMINAL LAW FAMILY LAW BANKRUPTCY LAW PERSONAL INJURY LAW NURSING HOME NEGLIGENCE LAW MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAW WILLS AND SUCCESSIONS YOU DON’T HAVE TO FACE A LEGAL CHALLENGE ALONE – CALL US TODAY! 3001 OLD MINDEN ROAD BOSSIER CITY, LA 71112 318.746.7467 WWW.EVANSFRANKLIN.COM

Franklin currently serves as a board member of the Independence Bowl and Progressive Elder Care Services. He is a member of the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, the Bossier Chamber of Commerce, and East Ridge Country Club. He’s married to Kathy French and has a son, Will, who recently graduated from LSU-Baton Rouge, and a daughter, Lillie, who is a junior at the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville.

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K AT H E R I N E E .

GILMER & SARAH R. GIGLIO CRIMINAL DEFENSE PERSONAL INJURY 3541 YOUREE DRIVE SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 318.459.9111 WWW.GILMERGIGLIO.COM

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riminal defense and personal injury attorneys Katherine E. Gilmer and Sarah R. Giglio strive to positively impact the lives of their clients.

“I consider myself an outspoken advocate for my clients and their best interests,” said Gilmer, who received her law degree from LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center but has always had a fascination with the legal system. “I want to help people who are suffering, whether as a result of an accident or criminal arrest.”

Neither can imagine a career in any other field.

“I love it when clients tell me I’ve had a lasting positive impact on their lives,” said Giglio, a Texas native who graduated from SMU’s Dedman School of Law. “Sometimes I’ll call and check on former clients who, at one time, had drug or alcohol problems, and when they tell me how successful their lives have become, it makes my day.”

Both Gilmer and Giglio believe their compassion sets them apart from other area firms, and they have big plans for the future.

“We want to stand as a shield between our clients and the legal system. Our desire is to identify and solve any underlying issues that caused them to come into contact with it in the first place,” said Giglio. “Clients know they can trust us.”

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GORDON & GORDON L AW F I R M PERSONAL INJURY CAR ACCIDENTS MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS 18 WHEELER ACCIDENTS WRONGFUL DEATH WORKERS COMPENSATION ON THE JOB INJURY OIL FIELD ACCIDENTS CONSTRUCTION INJURIES SCAFFOLDING ACCIDENTS

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ttorneys Stephen Gordon and Daniel Gordon founded the law firm of Gordon & Gordon to provide legal representation for personal injuries due to the fault of others. Both injury attorneys work and live right here in the Ark-La-Tex and have 43 years of combined legal experience in Workers Compensation & Personal Injury Cases.

Daniel R. Gordon and his brother, Stephen T. Gordon, founded Gordon & Gordon Law Firm to continue serving people hurt either on the highway or in the workplace.

Daniel R. Gordon was born and raised in Shreveport and after graduating from Southwood High School, he obtained his bachelor of arts in business from Ouachita Baptist University, his MBA from Henderson State University, and his law degree from Mississippi College School of Law. He has been practicing since 2003 in the area of personal injury law and workers’ compensation. Daniel married Jenifer in 1999 and they have three sons.

Stephen T. Gordon was born in the Panama Canal Zone, the son of Air Force Captain Norman R. Gordon and Sherry Gordon. Shreveport has been home to Stephen since 1973 — the year that Stephen’s father began his law practice.

Stephen graduated from Southwood High School in 1987, and from East Texas Baptist University in 1990. Stephen earned an MBA at Millsaps College in 1994. He earned his law degree at Mississippi College in 1997 and has been practicing law for more than 24 years. He and his wife, Sheralyn, have been happily married since 1992 and have four sons.

5105 HEARNE AVE., SHREVEPORT 1910 CITIZENS BANK DRIVE, BOSSIER CITY 1204 POLK ST., MANSFIELD 318.716.HELP WWW.716HELP.COM SBMAG.NET

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LO R I C .

GRAHAM AT TO R N E Y AT L AW, L . L .C .

PERSONAL INJURY CRIMINAL • FAMILY • WILLS SUCCESSIONS MUNICIPAL LAW

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passionate and successful attorney with 21 years of experience as a lawyer, Lori C. Graham was born and raised in Homer, LA, educated at Louisiana Tech University, and received her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Southern University Law Center in 2000. After working as a law clerk at Caddo Parish District Court and as an assistant district attorney for Caddo Parish, she founded the Law Office of Attorney Lori C. Graham in 2002. Lori also serves as City Attorney for her hometown.

Graham captures the respect of clients and jurors alike, as proven by her fight for the many clients who have received the compensation and justice they deserve. She is passionate when it comes to serving her clients and feels that her willingness to listen, knowledge of the law, and perseverance are all important factors in representing clients and for successful outcomes. Graham is a member of the Louisiana State Bar and Shreveport Bar Association. She also participates in youth volunteer work and community outreach programs with her church. Outside of work and volunteering, Lori spends time traveling, camping, ATV riding, horseback riding, and fishing with her husband, Gerod Durden, and their children, Joshua and Brooklynn.

7591 FERN AVENUE SUITE 1204 SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 318.869.0177

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hreveport native Richard E. Griffith practices in all areas of family law including adoption, child custody, community property, divorce, and support issues. He has been in private practice for more than 20 years and prides himself on assisting clients through highly emotional issues involved in custody and divorce proceedings. "You want a lawyer you can trust will give you the whole picture and promote your best interest both inside and out of the courtroom," said Richard, who earned his law degree from LSU in 2000. Richard especially loves doing adoptions.

Having been adopted at birth by two wonderful parents, he feels a personal connection with his adoption clients. There is nothing more rewarding than joining families together in a bond of love. It is one of the few times everyone leaves the courtroom happy."

Richard is a member of the American Bar Association, Louisiana Bar Association, and Shreveport Bar Association. He has been recognized by SB Magazine as one of Shreveport Bossier's Top Lawyers for the past 17 years.

The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys recognized him as one of the Top Law Firms in Louisiana 2017–2022. He was recognized in the Three Best Rated Divorce Lawyers for 2019–2022. He is Boy Scout Troop Committee Chair for the Shreveport Elks sponsored Troop 5, an Eagle Scout, and a member of Broadmoor Baptist Church.

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RICHARD E. GRIFFITH DIVORCE CHILD CUSTODY ADOPTIONS SPOUSAL SUPPORT 839 KINGS HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 SHREVEPORT, LA 318.222.0337 WWW.MILLSLAWYERS.COM

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GUERRIERO & GUERRIERO MEDICAL MALPRACTICE • PERSONAL INJURY 18-WHEELER & MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS WRONGFUL DEATH • OILFIELD ACCIDENTS NURSING HOME NEGLECT DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS • DRUG RECALL • CLASS ACTION

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ounded 96 years ago, the law firm of Guerriero and Guerriero is one of the oldest and most prestigious firms in North Louisiana. With over three decades of litigation experience, Jeff Guerriero continues the legacy started by his grandfather, Joseph S. Guerriero, and his father, Joe D. Guerriero. Jeff, his wife Elizabeth, and son-in-law Bryan Creekmore are proud to be a part of the legal profession and to carry on a family tradition of providing tough and aggressive legal representation to Louisiana plaintiffs. Jeff, a respected trial attorney known for his compassionate and tenacious representation, has obtained some of the largest settlements and verdicts in Northeast Louisiana, collecting millions of dollars for his clients. He gives each case his personal attention and cares about his clients like family.

The firm handles cases involving personal injury; 18-wheeler, motorcycle, and car accidents; wrongful death; nursing home neglect; medical malpractice; drug recalls/injuries; defective products; oil field/rig accidents; and mass tort/class action litigation. Jeff and the Law Firm of Guerriero & Guerriero also negotiate domestic and international multimedia contracts for corporate clients.

Jeff is committed to our community. Each year Guerriero & Guerriero partners with Stephen’s Media Group to hold annual coat, toy, and bike drives to provide local families in need with warm coats and help ensure every child has a reason to smile on Christmas Day. Jeff and the Ouachita Parish firefighters personally hand-deliver toys and bikes to local families every Christmas Eve. In 2017, Jeff started “Jungle Bells” at the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo. This annual community event with free zoo admission, amusement rides, crafts, snow, and Santa is enjoyed by thousands of Louisiana residents. Jeff also devotes a considerable amount of time to Pro Bono work and helping veterans and the elderly who cannot afford effective legal representation.

Over his accomplished legal career, Jeff has won numerous distinguished awards including Bayou Life’s Best of the Bayou Top Attorney; SB Magazine’s Top Attorney; Super Lawyer distinction; Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year; and the Better Business Bureau’s Good Neighbor Award.

Additionally, the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys recently voted Guerriero Law Firm one of the 10 Best Law Firms for Exceptional Client Services.

Jeff and Elizabeth both attended ULM and received their Juris Doctorates from Tulane University School of Law. Jeff served on the House of Delegates, the Board of Governors, and the Legislative Committee for the Louisiana State Bar Association for several years. He also served as the chairman of the Ethics Committee for the Fourth Judicial District Bar Association for over 10 years.

Elizabeth, an accomplished attorney in her own right, taught Business Law at ULM for 25 years and served on the House of Delegates for the Louisiana Bar Association. Specializing in contract law, she has negotiated multi-million dollar entertainment, television and sports contracts.

The Guerriero Law Firm is available 24/7 to call for FREE consultations: 318-325-4306.

820 JORDAN ST., SUITE 340 SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 • 318.841.0055 THEINJURYATTORNEY.COM

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JOHN HARRIS E S TAT E P L A N N I N G F O R LO U I S I A N A ESTATE PLANNING • SUCCESSIONS INTERDICTIONS

SAFEGUARDING YOUR SIGNIFICANCE

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ohn Harris with Estate Planning for Louisiana is overjoyed to once again be selected as a Top Attorney! By addressing the challenges presented in recent years head on, the firm has been able to continue to thrive and lead more families to success with their Estate Planning and Succession needs.

The focus of the firm has always been to help families “Safeguard their Significance.” In order to do that, John and his team develop relationships with their clients and really dive into what the clients hold most important. By asking many questions and listening intently, John is able to ascertain those relationships and possessions that create significance for the client and design a plan in order to achieve exactly what the client desires to accomplish.

“The backbone of our firm is education. Clients need their attorney to break down a complicated matter into straightforward, easy to follow segments so they can decide whether they need a Last Will and Testament, Revocable Living Trust, or Irrevocable Trust as the correct Estate Plan to meet their individualized needs and concerns,” said Harris. When it comes to handling a deceased family members estate settlement, Harris stated, “Clients come to me when making stressful decisions or confronting the hurdles of handling the home or assets after the death of a loved one. Our firm helps clients navigate these difficult waters with compassion and professionalism.”

The firm’s down-to-earth approach has worked wonders in assisting clients through a variety of areas many people try to avoid, including the complicated considerations of step-family planning, preservation of hard-earned assets from the devastating costs of nursing homes, the interdiction process necessary when a parent has lost the ability to care for themselves, and the convoluted area of Estate Tax Planning for those individuals with large estates.

“We know the most common reaction in our world today to these types of matters is procrastination.

When we can help clients transition these challenging areas into something they know is manageable, we have done our job well,” stated Harris.

7591 FERN AVE #1303, SHREVEPORT, LA 318.408.1400 WWW.ESTATEPLANNINGFORLA.COM SBMAG.NET

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avigating the legal system in any climate is intimidating for most people; however, it has been incredibly daunting for the past two years. We began 2022 with the delusion that the coronavirus was behind us. Unfortunately, the reality emerged quite differently. In January, Caddo Parish suspended jury trials for the first two months of the year. Between courtrooms closing and our local judicial systems operating under different guidelines, helping our clients navigate this new reality is a priority.

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We continue to work with our clients after resolving their case, whether that resolution is a plea or a trial. I am available to talk with clients as different situations arise long after resolving their case. We still adhere to our original mission statement: It is better to guide a client in the right direction than have a repeat client.

We appreciate the support of our local community. In addition to the 2022 Top Attorney edition, being voted Best of SB #1 DWI Attorney in 2021 cemented our belief that the dedication we put into the legal profession and our community pays off. Thanks again, and we look forward to continuing our work.

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A.J. HODGES, IV

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CRIMINAL DEFENSE

ndrew Jackson Hodges, IV, brings almost 30 years of extensive criminal trial experience to his clients throughout northwest and central Louisiana. His practice is dedicated to serious criminal, white collar, and DWI/DUI defense.

Born and raised in Shreveport, Andrew graduated from Captain Shreve High School and attended LSU Baton Rouge, where he earned a degree in Criminal Justice. Graduating from Southern University Law Center, Andrew served as a Judicial Criminal Law Clerk in the 19th Judicial District Court. From 1996 until 2002, Andrew handled thousands of criminal cases and tried numerous felony jury trials as staff attorney for the East Baton Rouge Parish Public Defender’s Office. In 2002, he became special counsel to Keogh, Cox and Wilson, Ltd., managing the firm’s criminal practice until 2015.

Andrew is a lifetime member of the Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (LACDL), and past-president of the Baton Rouge Bar of Criminal Justice. He also has the distinction of serving for more than a decade as Judge Pro Tempore in Baton Rouge City Court. “Sitting as judge provided a unique and invaluable perspective. Rarely does a lawyer have the opportunity to try cases as a judge, and then use those skills to better assist clients in private practice.”

Andrew knows that facing criminal charges can be a terrifying experience. “I pride myself on being accessible to my clients at any time, and you will have comfort knowing I am there to get you through the process and resolve your case to your complete satisfaction.”

In his spare time, Andrew volunteers and serves as Vice President of the A.J. and Nona Trigg Hodges Foundation, which operates the non-profit Louisiana Ecological Forestry Center at Hodges Gardens in Sabine Parish.

Andrew is married to Shreveport native and real estate broker Susannah Rice Hodges, and both returned to their hometown of Shreveport in 2011, where they are raising daughters Katherine and Elizabeth. He is an avid drummer and guitar player, photographer, writer, and wine collector, and is equally at home diving and spearfishing the oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico as he is in his kitchen preparing great dishes for friends and family.

“South Louisiana was a wonderful experience, but Shreveport is and has always been our home! We could not be happier raising our family here and are proud to serve the great people of north Louisiana.”

416 TRAVIS ST SUITE 1004 SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 LOCAL 318.990.1089 800.640.1954 AJHODGESATTORNEY.COM SBMAG.NET

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PAT R I C K JAC K S O N AUTO & TRUCKING ACCIDENTS GOVERNMENTAL LITIGATION MEDICAL MALPRACTICE NURSING HOME NEGLIGENCE PERSONAL INJURY IMMUNIZATION INJURY PHARMACEUTICAL NEGLIGENCE QUI TAM

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atrick Jackson is the parish attorney for Bossier and Webster Parishes and has been for over 20 years. He also practices extensively in personal injury, nursing home negligence, medical malpractice, qui tam (Medicare/Medicaid or other fraud involving federal money) and auto and trucking accidents in Louisiana and Texas.

“My approach to the practice of law is trying to ensure every day that I am accessible to my clients and that I give my clients the same advice I would give my family or friends,” he said. “The parish work is what I love to do most. It is so exciting to be able to work with a group of elected and appointed community leaders that try every day to do something good for Louisiana. Many times, I see those leaders worn down by detractors and still persevere to do the right thing. It is an honor to work in this capacity.”

In addition to his many duties as Parish Attorney, Jackson is a member of the Louisiana Bar Association, Texas State Bar Association and and admitted to all federal courts in Louisiana and Texas. Jackson is also admitted to the United States Court of Claims and the United States Supreme Court.

“I went into law to help people,” he said. “My father’s best friend was a lawyer, and I saw how people turned to him for help at their most desperate hour. He always seemed to make such a difference in those people’s lives around him. It was always something I admired as a child, and frankly, I wanted to be just like him.”

Jackson graduated from Parkway High School and attended Louisiana Tech University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then went to the Baylor University School of Law in Waco, Texas, where he earned his law degree. Jackson is currently seeking an L.L.M in Litigation Management at Baylor.

Outside his legal practice, Jackson is the Chief Legal Administrator for the Louisiana Army National Guard, having been in active service since 1988.

Jackson just completed his 34th year of service to the United States Army - Louisiana Army National Guard. Jackson is married to Tonya Jackson and has three children: Lee, Luke, and Ellie Kate.

4442 VIKING DRIVE, STE 100 BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 318.752.3335

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J. RANSDELL KEENE CRIMINAL DEFENSE • CIVIL LAW • SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY • FAMILY / DOMESTIC LAW PERSONAL INJURY • ADOPTION LAW

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former U.S. Attorney, J. Ransdell Keene handles cases involving personal injury, business law, adoption, domestic, civil, criminal and general litigation. He has 50 years of experience, trying cases in city, state, juvenile and federal courts.

“I enjoy the challenge of a difficult case, and I believe in the power of experience,” he said.

Keene is a graduate of the University of Southwestern Louisiana. He received his Juris Doctorate from the Louisiana State University School of Law in 1972. He began his legal career as a trial attorney and became first assistant to the U.S. Attorney and later was appointed as U.S. Attorney.

Born and raised in Shreveport, he opened his own office in 1982. “Our smaller law firm is able to give you the highest quality personal attention you deserve,” he said. “You’re not just another case. We take time with you so you understand your case and how we plan to represent you.”

He is a specialist in litigation and enjoys the diversity of the cases he handles. In 1978, President Jimmy Carter appointed him as the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana. The Western District includes 42 parishes.

Keene is a member of numerous professional organizations.

He is admitted and licensed to practice law in all Louisiana State Courts, the Louisiana Supreme Court, the United States Supreme Court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit (New Orleans), the U.S. Eleventh Circuit of Appeals (Atlanta), the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals, the U.S. Tax Court and the U.S. Court of Claims. He has tried cases throughout Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, New Jersey, California, Oklahoma, North Dakota, and the District of Columbia.

From 2001 to 2005, he served as a commissioner with the Metropolitan Planning Commission. Keene is a member of the National Association of Former United States Attorneys, Louisiana Association of Justice, Louisiana Baptist Foundation, Carter Foundation, Louisiana State Bar Association and American Bar Association.

Keene is married to Elizabeth McLean Keene and they have five children and six grandchildren. His hobbies include building museum quality sailing ships for charities, and he coached baseball for over 40 years and is a loyal St. Louis Cardinals fan. An avid reader, gardener and dog lover, he and his wife love to travel to see their college-age son play the violin and perform in college and professional orchestras and ensembles. He often gives historical lectures and book reviews and loves U.S. history and all issues involving public education. All five children graduated from Caddo Parish Public Schools. The Keenes are active in several animal rescue organizations and are members of the Shreveport Club.

9105 ELLERBE ROAD, SUITE 200 SHREVEPORT, LA 318.219.3921 JRKEENELAW.COM SBMAG.NET

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J U S T I N P. S M I T H , R A C H E L D . W O R T H A M , R O N A L D J . M I C I O T T O , H O L L A N D J . M I C I O T T O

LAW OFFICES OF RONALD J. MICIOTTO PERSONAL INJURY DOMESTIC LAW CRIMINAL LAW 628 STONER AVE. SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.424.0200

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onald J. Miciotto has created a presence of respect and hardworking ethic throughout the community for his firm since being admitted to the bar in 1977. He is involved in many community and legal organizations that strive to achieve the best possible representation for his clients and the public.

In the courtroom, he has an aggressive and effective presence. He participates in active trial practices consisting of high profile litigation of all forms including, but not limited to, personal injury cases.

He is past President and member of the Shreveport Bar Association. During his time as President, he was instrumental in changes that have made the local bar a more public service related organization.

In 2015, 2016, and 2017, the American Institute of Family Law named Miciotto as being in the top 10 for client satisfaction. The American Institute For Personal Injury Law also placed him in the top 10 for client satisfaction.

He and his wife, Natalie, have four children.

Holland Miciotto joined the firm after being admitted to the Louisiana Bar in 2017. His primary focus is on personal injury and criminal defense.

Justin Smith joined the firm in 2017. He was admitted to the Arkansas Bar in 2009 and the Louisiana Bar in 2012. He is a former Shreveport City Prosecutor. His practice is primarily focused on personal injury and criminal defense.

Rachel D. Wortham, was admitted to the Texas Bar in 2007, and to the LA Bar in 2018. She joined the firm in 2012. Her primary practice is family law.

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R . " C L A Y T O N " C H R I S T I A N , J O H N L . H A M M O N S , C O R N E L L R U S H I N G F L O U R N O Y, W I L L I A M W . M U R R A Y, J R .

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elson & Hammons, A Professional Law Corporation, was formed in 1977 by the late Sydney B. Nelson and John L. Hammons. Since 1980, the firm has been dedicated to investigating and handling meritorious medical malpractice claims.

JOHN HAMMONS graduated from Northeast Louisiana University, magna cum laude, in 1973 with a B.A. in government. He then graduated from Louisiana State University Law School with a J.D. in 1976, where he received the award of First Place in the Robert L. Tullis Moot Court Competition. Over his career, Hammons has handled hundreds of malpractice cases and has been featured in Super Lawyers continuously since 2007.

CORNELL RUSHING FLOURNOY grew up in Shreveport and graduated from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge with a B.A. in English in 1980. She graduated from Louisiana State University Law School in 1984 and returned to Shreveport to clerk in the First Judicial District Court, Caddo Parish. She joined Nelson & Hammons in 1986. Flournoy has been a diplomate of the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys continuously since 2009.

NELSON & HA MMONS MEDICAL MALPRACTICE PHYSICIAN NEGLIGENCE NURSING NEGLIGENCE HOSPITAL NEGLIGENCE 705 MILAM ST. • SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 • 318.227.2401 WWW.NELSONHAMMONS.COM

WILLIAM MURRAY graduated from Louisiana State University Shreveport, summa cum laude, with a B.A. in accounting in 2004 and an M.B.A. in 2005.

Murray graduated from Louisiana State University Law School, earning his Juris Doctor/Diploma of Civil Law in 2010, where he received the award of First Place in the Ira S. Flory Trial Advocacy Competition. Murray began practicing law in Shreveport at Mayer, Smith, & Roberts and joined Nelson & Hammons in 2012. He has been selected as a Super Lawyers Rising Star continuously since 2018.

R. CLAYTON CHRISTIAN graduated from Rhodes College with a B.A. in International Studies and History in 2015. He graduated from Tulane University Law School in 2020, earning his Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration. While at Tulane, Clayton served as the Senior Articles Editor of the Tulane Journal of International and Comparative Law. Additionally, Clayton served as a Student Attorney in Tulane’s Juvenile Litigation Clinic.

Clayton joined Nelson and Hammons in 2020.

Nelson & Hammons has offices in Shreveport and Lafayette. The main office is located in downtown Shreveport in a historic, three-story building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The building was purchased by the founding partners and renovated, but still retains its early 1900’s charm.

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ZACH AND MEAGAN SHADINGER

THE LAW OFFICE OF ZACH SHADINGER CAR WRECKS 18-WHEELER WRECKS OIL FIELD ACCIDENTS PERSONAL INJURY CRIMINAL DEFENSE 2123 SHED ROAD BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 • 318.742.1111 WWW.ZSHADLAW.COM

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ince starting his practice, Zach Shadinger’s law office has continued to grow. Clients come to Zach because they know he’s a lawyer they can trust and Zach is proud of the reputation he has built. “A lot of people come to me based on a recommendation from someone. That really means the world to me -- that my clients and my community think highly of me, both as a lawyer and a person.”

Zach has always taken a hands-on approach to his practice. “When a client comes to my office, I know exactly who they are and the details of their case.

In bigger firms, clients sometimes talk more to assistants than their attorney.

When you don’t interact your clients or files on a regular basis, you never really get to know them. That’s not how we do things in my office.”

As his practice continues to grow, Zach remains committed to making sure his firm maintains its hands-on approach. When it was time to add another lawyer to his practice, Zach turned to one of the best attorneys he knew and decided to team up with his wife, Meagan. Meagan is a talented attorney who has experience working on multi-million dollar cases. But most importantly, Zach knows that she is an attorney his clients can trust.

Meagan is excited about working with Zach, “I always admire the relationships Zach builds with his clients. He genuinely cares about them as people. In the past, I have seen firms prioritize case value over the clients themselves. I know Zach’s office will never be like that. As attorneys, we want the best outcome for our clients, but we shouldn’t forget about our clients as people either.”

The Law Office of Zach Shadinger may be smaller than the other firms, but that “small-town feel” of their firm is what sets it apart. “We want to have the type of practice that values people first.”

Zach and Meagan are looking forward to opening their new office in Benton.

“Zach tells everyone to stop by and have a cup of coffee once the office is completed. And he genuinely means it. That’s one of the things I love about working with him.”

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AL AN STEGALL PERSONAL INJURY MOTOR VEHICLE COLLISIONS

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obody asks to be injured in a car wreck or to be injured by a defective product. However, when the unexpected happens, Alan Stegall assists his clients in getting the best possible resolution for their case, and in turn, eases the stress of the process so the client can move forward.

Alan Stegall represents people in cases involving car wrecks, truck wrecks, defective products, brain injuries, and wrongful death, among other matters. Alan has been practicing law for over twenty years and has spent that time focusing on helping people that have been injured because of the negligence of others.

Alan finds helping others rewarding. “I represent people when something unfortunate has happened to them. My clients often face difficult situations, and we try to help them move forward. I want to provide my clients with the help they need, and I try to reach the best resolution possible as quickly as I can for them.”

One of the greatest compliments Alan receives is the many referrals he receives from past clients. Part of the reason for those recommendations is the personal attention he pays to each of his clients.

“When someone hires my office, I am their attorney,” said Alan, noting he answers calls, letters and emails promptly.

“My clients speak to me and not someone else. I handle their case from the beginning until the conclusion of the matter, and I work to get the best result possible.”

Alan is a graduate of Northwood High School, Northwestern State University, and LSU Law School. Alan has been practicing in Shreveport since 1999. He launched his solo law practice in 2007.

Alan is licensed to practice in both Louisiana and Texas. He is a member of the Louisiana Association for Justice, the American Association for Justice, the Louisiana State Bar Association, the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, the Texas Bar Association, and the American Bar Association. He is a member of the National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers since 2014 and received an America’s Top 100 Attorneys lifetime achievement award in 2017.

212 TEXAS ST., SUITE 100 SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.221.8000 WWW.ALANSTEGALL.COM SBMAG.NET

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VISHNEFSKI L AW F I R M

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FAMILY LAW & MEDIATION

here are plenty of divorce and custody lawyers in town. But within five minutes, prospective clients know that Becky Vishnefski is a different breed of lawyer. Friendly and outgoing, Becky instantly puts clients at ease.

She takes the time to explain the process and answer their questions. Clients say that Becky is compassionate and cares about their cases. Clients also appreciate that Becky is a straight talker. Becky says that clients hire her to help them win their case, not to tell them what they want to hear.

Becky has a special rapport with her clients. Besides a virtual receptionist that schedules new client consultations, Becky has no support staff. She communicates directly with her clients. This allows her to develop a better relationship with them. It also means that she knows their cases thoroughly. Clients appreciate Becky’s accessibility. While she does not keep regular office hours, she is always available to meet by appointment. Becky even offers Saturday appointments.

Becky has had a diverse range of experience. She practiced labor and employment law with Cook, Yancey, King & Galloway for several years. Becky then served as a law clerk to the Honorable S. Maurice Hicks, Jr., United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana. Becky eventually opened her own practice as the owner of Castillo Law Firm, LLC., a bilingual firm which represented clients in family law and immigration matters, civil litigation and criminal defense. Becky’s current practice as owner of Vishnefski Law Firm, LLC concentrates exclusively on family law and mediation.

Becky earned her undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University in Shreveport in 1997. She received her law degree in 2000 from the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center, where she was the Articles Editor of the Louisiana Law Review and a member of the Order of the Coif. She also represented LSU on the 1999 National Moot Court Team. Admitted to practice in 2000, she served as a law clerk to the Honorable Frank J. Polozola, United States District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana.

Becky truly feels like she is helping people and making a difference in their lives. In addition to her law practice, Becky is also qualified to mediate family law and civil disputes.

Becky grew up in Shreveport. She currently lives in Bossier with her husband David, who is a detective with the Bossier Sheriff’s Office. Becky’s son Patrick Castillo, who lives in Shreveport, is a cyber security analyst.

Becky’s newest love is her grandson, Thomas Gerard Castillo, who was born on Halloween 2021.

628 STONER AVE. SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.562.6942 WWW.VISHNEFSKILAW.COM

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B E R G L AW F I R M

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CRIMINAL DEFENSE & FAMILY LAW

et our family help your family. That attitude and devotion to clients has driven Kevin Berg and Nicole Holmes since opening their office. This husband and wife team focuses on criminal defense and family law. Every case that comes through their door gets the time and attention of both attorneys. A diverse perspective sets the service to their clients apart. Every case is viewed from a male and female point of view, so no details are overlooked.

They attribute their unique perspective to their diverse backgrounds. Kevin, a Shreveport native and Byrd High graduate, and Nicole, a country girl from Foxworth, Mississippi, met in law school and began playing off each other’s strengths immediately. Kevin has a sharp wit and easy manner that sets him apart in navigating the court room and presenting cases to a jury while Nicole has the interest and passion for research that ensures every option is explored and every right is protected.

In addition to their passion for law, they are also avid photographers and world travelers. These experiences carry into their practice because, just like photographers are always looking for different angles to tell the full story, Kevin and Nicole are working every angle to ensure their client’s best angle takes the spotlight. Additionally, travel broadens the mind and opens you up to different experiences, enabling you to see issues from different angles. The Berg Law Firm uses those experiences to craft firm, aggressive defenses for their clients.

When you or your loved one is in trouble or when you are looking for guidance during family disputes, call The Berg Law Firm. “Because we are a family, our clients make up our extended family. Their problems are our problems,” Berg said. When you need more than just one in your corner, let two fight for you!

2902 CENTENARY BLVD. SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 318.946.8962 WWW.THEBERGLAWFIRM.COM

W H I T L E Y R . G R AV E S , A P LC

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DWI / DUI

hitley R. Graves has been a driving force in the field of Alcohol/Medication driving offenses (DWI/DUI) for more than 45 years, first as a Trooper with the Louisiana State Police, then as an assistant district attorney and now as a defense attorney in private practice. He has been continually elected by his peers as one of the top attorneys in SB since 2005. Graves has earned the reputation of being a prepared, aggressive and effective trial lawyer in the Shreveport-Bossier City area. He and his office manager of 21 years, Robin Rue, have dedicated their skills to obtaining the best possible resolutions for people accused of DWI/DUI and those efforts are recognized by judges and prosecuting attorneys as well as law enforcement personnel.

Graves has tried more than 100 jury trials and literally thousands of bench trials methodically sifting through the innocuous and pinpointing the specific legal issues that need to be addressed. With an impressive success rate, he has presented more than 60 matters before the Courts of Appeals including the Louisiana Supreme Court. He is licensed to practice in all Louisiana Courts along with the Federal Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States Supreme Court.

P.O. BOX 219 BENTON, LA • 318.965.5001 WWW.WHITGRAVES.COM SBMAG.NET

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H A R R I S L AW F I R M , L LC

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CRIMINAL DEFENSE • PERSONAL INJURY FAMILY LAW • ESTATE PLANNING

ourtney N. Harris has always had an overwhelming passion and desire to practice law. “I have a loyalty that runs deep within me to see and evoke change,” said Harris, a Shreveport native, who comes from humble beginnings in the Lakeside neighborhood of Shreveport.

Harris is a graduate of Southern University Law Center and Southern University Nelson Mandela School of Public Policy in Baton Rouge and was the only student in her graduating class to obtain a Joint Juris Doctorate and Master’s in Public Administration.

Since she returned to her hometown of Shreveport, Harris has continued to make significant strides in her career that has gained the attention of her peers and colleagues, all of whom have a tremendous amount of respect for her hard work, dedication and professionalism.

As a former Judicial Law Clerk at the First Judicial District Court and former Assistant City Attorney for the City of Shreveport, Harris has continued to expand her presence in the community.

In her private practice (Harris Law Firm, L.L.C.), she attributes her growing success to her faith, hard work and dedication. Her areas of practice include Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, Family Law and Estate Planning.

Harris is the former 2021 President of the Women’s Section for the Shreveport Bar Association having been elected as the Vice-President in 2020. She is currently a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and Harry V. Booth - Judge Henry A. Politz Inn of Court.

839 KINGS HIGHWAY, SUITE 115, SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 • 318.402.9129 WWW.HARRIS-LAWFIRM.COM

A LO N ZO P. JAC K S O N , J R .

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CRIMINAL DEFENSE • PERSONAL INJURY • FAMILY LAW lonzo was born and raised in Shreveport, LA. He is a lifelong member of Lane Chapel CME. Alonzo attended and graduated from Huntington High School in 2005 and went on to further his education at the University of Louisiana at Monroe where he received his Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Sociology in 2009.

Alonzo pursued his legal studies at Southern University Law Center in 2014. He also received his Masters in Public Administration at Southern University Nelson Mandela School of Public Policy in 2015. While attending law school, Alonzo was a member of the Black Law Students Association, served as Vice President of the Sports and Entertainment Law Association, and was 3L Class President.

After completing law school, Alonzo had the honor of being an associate at Washington and Wells Law Firm where he began practicing several areas of law, but primarily focusing on Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, and Family Law. Alonzo also spent time as an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Shreveport.

He served as legal counsel for Shreveport Police and Fire Departments, as well as Shreveport Parks and Recreation.

In addition to his private practice, he is currently employed as a contract attorney with the Caddo Parish Public Defender’s Office. Alonzo has a passion for helping others and provides compassionate, professional, and effective legal representation. His primary focus is helping people who do not have a voice of their own and making a difference in the lives of those who need help the most.

In his spare time, Jackson Jr. enjoys attending sporting events, traveling, and indulging in a good game of dominoes. Alonzo plans to continue to grow his firm and continue to fight for the justice that his clients deserve. He credits his recent professional success to his loving parents, the late Alonzo P. Jackson Sr. and Anita Jackson, his sister, Chelsa, and his wife, Kenitra Jackson.

BROWN O’NEAL BUILDING, 2210 LINE AVE #103, SHREVEPORT, LA 318.779.1587 WWW.JACKSONJRLAW.COM

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H . LY N L AW R E N C E , J R .

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PERSONAL INJURY • FAMILY LAW • CRIMINAL LAW . Lyn Lawrence, Jr. is one of the premier trial lawyers in the Bossier City area, representing individuals and families throughout northwest Louisiana for over 29 years. He is an aggressive advocate for his clients and is dedicated to helping members of his community with their legal problems.

Lyn’s paralegals, Sandra Monroe and Robin Barr, have a combined experience in the legal field of more than 30 years. They all work closely together to assist clients in navigating through the complex and intimidating issues that surround the areas in which he focuses his practice, including personal injury, family law and criminal defense, as well as an additional range of general civil litigation matters. He calls it a “People’s Practice” and he and his staff enjoy representing people and solving their problems.

HismembershipsincludetheLouisianaStateBarAssociation,ShreveportBarAssociation,Bossier Bar Association, the Louisiana Association for Justice and is a Board Member of the Louisiana Public Defender Board. He enjoyed his reign as Captain of Justinian XXV, King of Justinian XXI, as well as serving as Duke of Justinian XVIII. The Krewe of Justinian serves not only as a social avenue, but also donates funds to the Pro Bono Project of the Shreveport Bar Foundation, as well as sharing the spirit of Mardi Gras with several local elementary school students.

Born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana, Lyn graduated from Woodlawn High School and earned a scholarship to Louisiana Tech University, where he graduated with a degree in accounting. He attended law school at LSU, where he earned his law degree in 1993.

He is the proud father of three children: Peyton, Harrison, and LauraLeigh. He is very excited to announce the birth of his first grandchild, John Cooper, and is loving his new role as “Pops”. He is an avid sports fan, loves to fish at his camp on Lake Bistineau, but most of all, loves spending time with friends and family.

3985 AIRLINE DRIVE • BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 318.741.9595 WWW.LYNLAWRENCE.COM

W I L L I A M R . LO N G

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WORKERS’ COMPENSATION SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

illiam R. (Randy) Long is a Bossier City native approaching his 35th year practicing law in Shreveport/Bossier and North Louisiana. He began practicing his law career as a personal injury attorney. Over the years his concentration of practice evolved to include Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability claims. He is knowledgeable, dedicated and works diligently to assist his clients in obtaining the maximum compensation owed for lost wages, medical bills or permanent disability. Randy establishes one on one relationships with his clients and fights for their rights. He strives to make positive differences in their lives, providing his clients with the best legal representation and advice possible.

Randy is married to Deanna (Schwartzenburg) and has two children, Darbi L. Long and Hunter Long. All are Louisiana Tech University alumni. Randy and Deanna are active members of St. Jude Catholic Church in Benton, Louisiana.

2250 HOSPITAL DRIVE, SUITE 216 BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 • 318.797.8288 WWW.LONG-LAWFIRM.COM

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M A R K J . M I C I OT TO

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FAMILY LAW CRIMINAL PERSONAL INJURY REAL ESTATE

ark J. Miciotto, a 2016 Rising Star Super Lawyer, has always had a passion for standing up for other people’s rights.

The hard-working attorney, who has been practicing since 2012, enjoys helping people deal with their legal issues. He focuses intently on his clients and showers them with the utmost personal attention, often working long hours in the process.

Born and raised in Shreveport, Miciotto has strong family ties to the community. After completing his undergraduate work at Northwestern State University, he graduated from Southern University Law Center in 2010.

Soon he became a law clerk for the Caddo Parish First Judicial District Court and later an associate at his cousin Ronald J. Miciotto’s law firm.

In October 2013, Mark started his own practice (Mark J. Miciotto, L.L.C.) with a focus on family law litigation, criminal defense, estate/successions, civil disputes and personal injury.

Since opening his practice, he has experienced tremendous growth and aims to continue this by providing top quality service to his clients.

2902 CENTENARY BLVD. 628 STONER AVE • SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.221.7806

L ANCE MOSLE Y & GORDON MOSLE Y

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MOSLEY TITLE COMPANY • CORPORATE LAW REAL ESTATE • SUCCESSIONS

ance Mosley has been in the title business for over 30 years and is the managing member at Mosley Title Company, where he specializes in residential and commercial development work. “We are a locally owned business. Our employees live in Bossier or Caddo Parish.” Mosley, a Bossier City native, graduated from LSUS and Tulane University Law School. Lance served as 2021 President of the Greater Bossier Economic Development Foundation.

Gordon Mosley is an attorney at Mosley Title Company, where he works on commercial and residential real estate transactions. He graduated from Tulane University’s business and law schools. He clerked for the 26th Judicial District Court and was the Assistant City Attorney for Bossier City for four years. Gordon served as the President for the Bossier Rotary and is the past President of the Shreveport Bar Association — Young Lawyers Division. Gordon serves on the Board of Directors for the Bossier Chamber of Commerce.

GEAUX LOCAL • 2907 E. TEXAS BOSSIER CITY, LA • 318.549.2009 WWW.MOSLEYTC.COM

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AU D R I U S M . R E E D AT TO R N E Y AT L AW, L LC

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FAMILY/DOMESTIC LAW • CRIMINAL DEFENSE • PERSONAL INJURY • ESTATE PLANNING

aith, purpose, confidence, and intent are just a few of the characteristics that drive attorney Audrius M. Reed. Audrius has been practicing for almost three years and believes her relatability is what sets her apart. Knowing that an attorney understands the severity of a client’s situation from a legal perspective, as well as the emotional toll, is reassuring. Audrius finds that clients are more apt to heed the advisement of someone who “gets it” and Audrius primarily focuses areas based on the needs of the communities where she grew up: Family/Domestic Law, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, and Estate Planning. She prides herself on being able to relate to the majority of her clientele. Clients need that. Audrius recommends that individuals seeking legal representation should look for someone ethical, trustworthy, transparent, and approachable.

Audrius graduated from Caddo Magnet, Southern University and A&M College, and Southern University Law Center. She is the President of the Shreveport Bar Association’s Women’s Section, the IT and Public Relations Chair of the Young Lawyers’ Section, and a volunteer with the Shreveport Bar Foundation. She is a member of the Booth-Politz Inn of Court and the Shreveport-Bossier African American Chamber and is the Vice President of Membership for the Shreveport Chapter of the Southern University Alumni Federation. Audrius recently received Southern University System’s 40 Under Forty award (Cohort Trois) and is a finalist for the Louisiana State Bar Association Young Lawyers Division Pro Bono Award. In 2021, she was named to the SB Magazine Top Attorney list and recognized in the “Best Of” attorney category.

What Audrius loves most about practicing law is having the opportunity to help individuals navigate some of the most challenging times of life. Audrius is a wife and mother of two who enjoys spending time with family and friends, volunteering through her church, shopping, reading, and traveling.

631 MILAM STREET, SUITE 105 • SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA • 318.606.2234

JOEL A. RICE — RICE LAW FIRM

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PERSONAL INJURY

oel A. Rice is an experienced personal injury attorney and resident of Shreveport. “Rice Law Firm is here to serve our clients and see that they are restored from the harms and losses they have suffered,” he said.

Rice has been practicing law for 16 years, the majority of that time spent protecting the rights of victims of motor vehicle accidents. “People often say, ‘Oh well, accidents happen.’ While the saying is true, it is also true that there are always reasons accidents happen and those reasons are usually carelessness or negligence. When it is a motor vehicle accident, it can have a serious impact on a person’s life. We want to help injured people reclaim their lives.”

Rice Law Firm was established to protect individuals and their families from the injustice and mistreatment that often follows a collision. “Serious personal injuries can result in enormous medical bills and permanently compromise your physical and emotional well-being. If your injuries were caused by the negligent actions of someone else, you have the right to obtain full compensation from those who are responsible.”

Rice is driven by a desire to seek justice for people who have suffered life-changing events through no fault of their own. His love of God and people drive him to help those who are unable to help themselves. “I want to serve people and serve God through the people He sends to us,” he said.

After a car crash, people already have enough stress to deal with. They need an attorney to help them get through the process. Rice Law Firm is fully dedicated to serving the needs of our clients. Whether you were injured in a truck or car wreck, bicycle accident, hit by a drunk driver, or injured in the oilfield - even if your loved one died - we can provide you with the representation you need.

“Our goal is to make sure our clients are not taken advantage of by big insurance companies and that they get what is owed to them when they have been injured,” he said.

Rice Law Firm provides access to the court system to individuals who could not otherwise afford legal services.

910 PIERREMONT ROAD, SUITE 410 • SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 318.861.8661 RICELAWFIRMLLC.COM SBMAG.NET

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special advertising section

SMITHERMAN, HILL & BRICE, L.C. PERSONAL INJURY • DIVORCE • WILLS & ESTATE BUSINESS & TRANSACTIONAL LAW • REAL ESTATE CRIMINAL DEFENSE • TRUSTS • ELDER LAW • TAXATION WORK COMP • OIL & GAS • MEDICAL MALPRACTICE NURSING HOME NEGLECT

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he law firm of Smitherman, Hill & Brice, L.C. prides itself in helping people solve all types of problems and serving its clients by assisting them in focusing on their needs and goals.

Founded in 1922, Smitherman, Hill & Brice, L.C. has a tradition of providing a complete spectrum of legal services, while devoting personal and individual attention to every client. The firm holds the AV rating (highest possible) in the Martindale-Hubble attorney referral publication.

W. James Hill, III (COL(R) USAR) a Shreveport native, is a graduate of Vanderbilt University with a Master’s from North Texas State and his J.D. from LSU Law School. He is also admitted in TX, OK, MO, CO, KS, MS and DC, and has over 45 years of broad legal experience. Donald Lee Brice, Jr., a Minden native, is a graduate of LSU and LSU Law School and adds his own 33 years of broad legal expertise.

F. Weber Hill received his MBA and JD degrees from Oklahoma City School of Law. He joined the firm in 2015 after clerking for the First Judicial District Court for three years. D. Garrett Hill received his MBA and JD degree from the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth. He joined the firm in 2016 after clerking for the First Judicial District Court for two years. Both are Shreveport natives.

8570 BUSINESS PARK DRIVE, SUITE 100 SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 • 318.227.1990

K A M M I R . W H AT L E Y AT TO R N E Y AT L AW, L LC

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CRIMINAL DEFENSE

ammi Whatley has a passion for protecting the rights of others. This passion is why she focuses exclusively on criminal defense. As a lifelong resident of Shreveport, returning to the area after graduating from LSU Law Center to establish her practice locally was always the plan. Growing up in the area, she knew the hardships people faced when accused of a crime. She saw firsthand the impact that accusations had on their lives, how they were perceived in the community, and even on their ability to maintain employment.

Her goal from the outset was to be the voice for her clients. Every individual has a right to be heard.

Whether it's vigorously defending her clients in the courtroom or making a positive impact in the community, this passion for serving others is still her driving force. She is approachable and accessible to her clients, which is a source of great pride. Clients know there is no judgment and that she is there to help, regardless of the situation. Building this rapport with her clients and effectively advocating for them with a logical, thorough, and aggressive defense earns her clients' trust. Kammi Whatley's clients trust her with the thing they value most: their freedom.

668 JORDAN STREET, SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.425.9667 WWW.KAMMIWHATLEY.COM

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A ARON R. WILSON

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REAL ESTATE, WILLS AND ESTATES

aron R. Wilson believes that everyone deserves a fair shake.

He prides himself on being accessible and approachable by all those that seek advice, whether it’s someone he has never met, or a long-time client.

Aaron was born and raised in the Shreveport/Bossier City area. He attended both Captain Shreve High School and Airline High School, and obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Louisiana State University in Shreveport. In 2016, after graduating from Southern University Law Center, he was admitted to the practice of law. After completing law school, Aaron joined his father and attorney of 36 years, Donald L. Wilson, with whom he shared a practice until 2020.

Aaron’s practice includes several areas of the law, but his primary focus is real estate, including transactions, successions and probate, landlord/tenant matters, and property taxes. He currently represents clients from all walks of life in several parishes, including Caddo, Bossier, DeSoto, Natchitoches, and Rapides. Aaron also serves the public as a Public Defender in Bossier Parish.

Aaron is married to Lacie G. Kempff and resides in Caddo Parish. He is also the Owner of Landowners Abstract & Title, Corp. and is a member of the Louisiana Bar Association, Shreveport Bar Association, Bossier Bar Association, and is an active member of several committees for the Louisiana State Bar Association.

707 BENTON ROAD, SUITE 125 • BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA 71111 318.752.4106 WWW.WILSONAPLC.COM

SHELVIA R. GRANT ATTORNEY AT LAW

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ESTATE PLANNING • SUCCESSIONS

Shelvia R. Grant is a Shreveport native and a proud graduate of C.E. Byrd High School.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, and her Juris Doctor from the Southern University Law Center.

Grant returned home to Shreveport and was admitted to practice in 2014. She began her legal career as a staff attorney with Legal Services of North Louisiana and later worked as an Assistant City Prosecutor for the City of Shreveport.

Throughout her eight years of practicing law, no area has brought her more fulfillment than estate planning and successions. “I am able to empathize with my clients and provide a service that often lifts a burden off of their shoulders during a trying time,” said Grant, who is passionate about preparing for the future today through estate planning.

She is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association, C.E. Byrd Alumni Board of Directors, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier, American Cancer Society of NWLA’s Executive Leadership Council, and was recently named a 2021 “40 Under Forty” honoree by the Young Professionals Initiative.

333 TEXAS STREET, SUITE 1300 • SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.666.8355 SBMAG.NET

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CRAIG SMITH ATTORNEY

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T H E L AW O F F I C E S OF SANDRA JA M E S PAG E

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PERSONAL INJURY • WILLS CRIMINAL DEFENSE • CONTRACTS

andra James Page pursued a law career because of her vision to change the world and a relentless desire to help people. Growing up in Shreveport, Louisiana, Page has always been passionate about defending the defenseless and doing what’s right.

She attended Southern University Law Center. After graduating in 2019, she began her legal career at The Singleton Law Firm and the Caddo Parish Public Defender’s Office.

“My mission is to ensure that every client feels represented and valued throughout the process. I want my work to showcase just how invested I am in people and community.”

In 2020, Sandra opened her own practice and continues to practice across the state of Louisiana. Sandra is currently a Public Defender in St. Martin Parish.

Sandra is an active member of the Louisiana Bar Association, Shreveport Bar Association, National Black Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, Louisiana Association of Justice, Public Defenders Association of Louisiana, C.E. Byrd High School Board of Directors, GNO Martinet Society, and Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity.

LAWOFFICESOFSJP@GMAIL.COM • 318.261.8887

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WA S H I N G TO N & W E L L S L AW F I R M PERSONAL INJURY LAW CRIMINAL LAW • MUNICIPAL LAW PUBLIC FINANCE CIVIL LITIGATION

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stablished in 2001, Washington & Wells, L.L.C. is a full-service law firm, which maintains its principal office in Shreveport, Louisiana. The firm also maintains a satellite office in Dallas, Texas. In addition to successfully obtaining substantial judgments, settlements, and favorable results for their clients in both Louisiana and Texas, Attorneys Alex Washington and Shante Wells have zealously represented a multitude of clients across the nation. Consistently voted one of the best law firms in northern Louisiana, the firm’s practice areas include personal injury law, criminal law, municipal law, public finance, civil litigation, and family law. Additionally, Attorney Alex Washington was appointed as the City Attorney of Natchitoches in 2020. All of the firm’s attorneys are actively involved in a variety of community activities and civic engagements throughout the States of Louisiana and Texas, and they are wholly committed to providing each of their clients with the highest quality of legal advice and representation, which has become synonymous with the name Washington & Wells.

1700 IRVING PLACE, SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA 318.841.1233 WWW.WASHINGTONANDWELLS.COM

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

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originally published May 2004

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SB GOOD TO KNOW

BY SEVA MAY

LOCAL BUSINESS OFFERS COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY Office Furniture Source, LLC is proud to announce once again this year our Community of Excellence Scholarships.

These awards offer outstanding graduating seniors the opportunity to help pay for their upper education costs. This is more than a scholarship. It is an investment in our future, our community & youth. We want to inspire others through resiliency and dedication to protect our community by giving back to those who will lead our community in the future. Applications are available at www.OfficeFurnitureSource.net or 2218 E. Texas Street in Bossier City. Deadline is 5:30 pm on May 1, 2022.Winners will be announced Monday, May 4, 2022. Our Annual Awards Ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, May 17, 2022, at 11:30am.

UNITED WAY INVESTS $6 MILLION INTO NORTHWEST LOUISIANA United Way of Northwest Louisiana (UWNWLA) and area businesses recently celebrated $2.2 million raised for Northwest Louisiana.

UWNWLA’s Celebration of Impact event shared fundraising and impact results from the previous year and acknowledges the supporters that made it possible, including approximately 100 partner companies. The top five companies that raised the most dollars include AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO), International Paper Mansfield Mill, Caddo Parish Public Schools, Enterprise Holdings, LLC, and Zachry Group.

These funds have an impact value of nearly $6 million for our community, helping more than 100,000 lives in need in our region. Allocations will be made to UWNWLA programs and nonprofit services that work to serve ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) citizens.

“It is a pleasure to have the opportunity to properly thank and honor our community partners that make our work possible,” said UWNWLA Vice President of Donor Relations, Carly Koen. “After years of hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s moving to see that our partners still understand the value and importance of remaining united when times get tough. We are grateful for all of our allies’ continued support.”

In 2021, more than 100 presentations were made to 60 companies running workplace campaigns. A total of 4,000 donors gave, and 84 of these were leadership donors who donated $1,000 or more. United Way of Northwest Louisiana is honored to have such generous supporters and looks forward to another year of changing lives in 2022.

Ameriprise Private Wealth Advisory Practice

Kevin L Murphy CFP® Private Wealth Advisor Managing Partner of Laveer Wealth Management A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

Christopher P. Murphy CRPC®, APMA®, BFATM Financial Advisor

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Laveer Wealth Management ▪ 318.861.3521 738 N. Ashley Ridge Loop, Shreveport, LA 71106

Forbes/SHOOK Research listings are based on data compiled by many of the nation’s most productive advisors, selected by their firms, which is then submitted to and judged by SHOOK Research. Key factors and criteria include: assets under management, revenue produced for the firm, regulatory and compliance record, and credentials/years of professional experience. Selection of winners is done by comparing advisors at a national level, selecting winners, and then sorting them into state-specific lists. A separate evaluation is not done for each state. Portfolio performance is not a factor. This award is not indicative of this advisor’s future performance. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receives compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking.

The Compass is a trademark of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Investment products are not federally or FDIC-insured, 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. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. ©2021 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

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SHREVE MEMORIAL LIBRARY CHILDREN’S BOOK FESTIVAL RETURNS MAY 7 The Shreve Memorial Library Annual Children’s Book Festival returns Saturday, May 7 on the beautiful campus of LSU Shreveport. The festival, last held in 2019, is a family-friendly, daylong literary event that features children’s book authors and illustrators, costumed characters, and interactive games and activities for children of all ages.

R.L. Stine, author of the internationally bestselling Goosebumps series, will headline this year’s event that is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission to the festival is free and open to the public.

“We are so excited to be able to hold the Children’s Book Festival again this year and to once again be able to bring this event to the people of Caddo Parish and northwest Louisiana,” stated John Tuggle, Shreve Memorial Library Executive Director. “The library is dedicated to encouraging a love of reading, promoting early literacy, and creating young readers. What better way to do that than to bring in authors such as R.L. Stine, who is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Goosebumps series this year, to encourage children to read, stretch their imaginations and bring stories to life.” The Guinness Book of World Records cited Stine as the bestselling series author in history.

In addition, the festival will also feature Jennifer L. Holm, New York Times bestselling children’s author and recipient of three Newberry Honors for her books Our Only

Buying or Refinancing, We are Here to Help You!

May Amelia, Penny from Heaven, and Turtle in Paradise.

New York Times bestselling author, Kwame Mbalia, whose debut middle-grade novel Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky was awarded a Coretta Scott King Author Honor, and Brenda Maier, picture book author of The Little Red Fort, Peeping Beauty and The Little Blue Bridge, will also be among the festival’s featured authors.

Children, parents and all festival attendees will have an opportunity to meet each of these authors, get their autographs, and see the authors bring their stories and experiences to life on stage.

Local authors and illustrators are encouraged and invited to participate in the festival by reserving a 10’x10’ booth space. Booth spaces are available for $25 each and include listing in the Children’s Book Festival Guide, table and chairs. The deadline for reserving booth space is Thursday, April 21. Those interested in being a part of the festival are asked to contact Emily Horan at (318) 226-4980 or by emailing ehoran@shreve-lib.org.

Community groups, organizations and businesses are also invited to join Shreve Memorial Library in Literacy Lane, a special area of the Children’s Book Festival where community partners will come together to promote a love of reading and lifelong learning in a fun, interactive way.

Organizations are encouraged to sign up for a free booth space to provide a FREE activity or game for children and festival attendees. Those interested in being a part of Literacy Lane are asked to contact Samantha Bonnette at (318) 213-4992 or via email at sbonnette@shreve-lib.org.

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............................................................................................................................................................ MORE NEWS VIRGINIA K. SHEHEE MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMAN AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED

LOCAL PHYSICIAN SELECTED FOR THE RACZ EXCELLENCE AWARD

Virginia K. Shehee paved the way for women leaders in our community through her business leadership, civic engagement, and philanthropic heart. The selection criteria include showing a commitment to philanthropy by helping children, the elderly, those in need, the arts, business development, education, or other acts of caring through un-paid positions.

Winner of the Virginia K. Shehee Most Influential Woman Award was Lisa Cronin, attorney at Cook, Yancey, King and Galloway Law Firm and Executive Director of Common Ground Community. Other finalists included Penny Durham, Dr. Gayle Flowers, Jacque Jovic, Candy Peavy, and Dr. Melva Williams.

Winner of the Virginia K. Shehee Most Influential Young Woman award was Catherine Briery, a junior at C.E. Byrd High School. This is a new award added in 2022 given to a female, high-school junior or senior whose leadership, poise, and determination are demonstrated through meaningful acts of philanthropy for her fellow students or her community. Other finalists included Madalyn Eagles, Hannah Beth Herrington, Abigail Nickelson, Mary Osborn, and Olivia Stringham.

The prestigious Racz Excellence Award is given to one physician annually. Alan Kaye, MD, PhD, DABA, DABPM, DABIPP, FASA, Professor of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neurosciences at LSU Health Shreveport has been chosen as the 2022 recipient by the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians (ASIPP). Dr. Kaye is Board Certified as a Consultant in Anesthesiology, holds a special certificate in Pain Management from the American Board of Anesthesiology and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pain Medicine and the American Board of Interventional Pain Physicians. He is editor-in-chief of the journals Pain Physician and Current Pain and Headache Reports and is on the FDA Advisory Board on Anesthetics and Analgesics. Dr. Kaye also currently serves as the Provost and Chief Academic Officer at LSU Health Shreveport.

NEW LEADERSHIP AT SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY The Southern University System Board of Supervisors today named Dennis Shields as the next president of the Southern University System and chancellor of Southern University and A&M College. Shields, the current chancellor of the University of Wisconsin Platteville, will succeed President-Chancellor Ray L. Belton, who announced his retirement in 2021. Belton’s contract ends on June 30. Shields, who has been the chancellor for the University of Wisconsin Platteville since 2010, has spent most

DOCUMENTARY ABOUT WIENER BROTHERS FEATURED AT PRESTIGIOUS CELEBRATION OF MODERNISM The locally produced film tells the story of Jewish architects Samuel G. and William B. Wiener, half-brothers from Shreveport, whose modernist designs of residential, institutional, and commercial buildings from the 1930s through the 1960s made Shreveport an early hub of International Modernist design in the United States. Modernism Week highlights midcentury modern architecture, art, interior and landscape design, and vintage culture in the Palm Springs area of Southern California. “Getting this honor has been our proudest moment for our film,” said Gregory Kallenberg, director of “Unexpected Modernism.” “The world needs to rediscover the important work of the Wiener brothers, and I can’t think of a better place than the incredibly influential Modernism Week in Palm Springs.” Local fans will be able to see “Unexpected Modernism” in Shreveport on May 20. To learn more visit unexpectedmodernism.com.

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of his career advocating for better access to higher education — especially those who have been historically underrepresented. Under Shields’ leadership, the campus has had tremendous growth. Enrollment grew nearly 11 percent from 2010 to fall 2016 and he led successful efforts to gain legislative and gubernatorial approval for enhanced facilities.

LOCAL BUSINESS WINNER OF LANTERN AWARD Louisiana Economic Development created the Lantern Awards in 1979 to recognize excellence in manufacturing and exemplary public service from businesses and employees to their local communities. Lantern Award recipients are selected

by Louisiana’s Regional Planning and Development Districts, based on the overall contribution of the manufacturers to their communities, including investments in employment growth and facility expansions as well as public service activities with employee participation. Honorees are selected from seven regions and must have been in operation at least three years prior to their nomination to demonstrate sustainability. The 2021 Lantern Award winner from the Louisiana Northwest Region is Maxim Watermakers of Shreveport. LED’s program partners include the Louisiana Industrial Development Executives Association and the Louisiana Association of Planning and Development Districts. Since 1992, Lantern award-winners have received lanterns handcrafted by Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights of New Orleans, the oldest and largest copper gas lantern manufacturer in the U.S., and the second-oldest in the world.

THE GREATER SHREVEPORT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 2022 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Francesca Moreland, Williams Creative Group, Inc., Chair of the Board David Alexander, Vintage Realty Company Jeremy K. Moore, Capital One Bank Roy Prestwood, Heard, McElroy & Vestal, ChairmanElect Melissa Couch, Barksdale Federal Credit Union Kenneth Morrow, Metro Aviation, Inc. Brian Mcnew, Mcnew Architecture, APAC, Immediate Past Chairman Andrew Craig, Mohr and Associates, Inc. Grant Nuckolls, Twisted Root Burger Tom Simms, Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC, Treasurer Brian Crawford, Willis-Knighton Health System E. Conner Peterson, Keith D. Peterson & Company Inc. William C. Bradford, Jr., Blanchard, Walker, O’Quin & Roberts, PLC, Vice Chair-Economic Development Robert Crawford, ATCO Investment Company, LLC Robert Pou, Romph & Pou Agency Mark Snow, P.E., Aillet, Fenner, Jolly & McClelland, Inc., Vice Chair–Education Suyi Georgewill, Cintas Corp.

George Sirven, KTBS, LLC Linda M. Biernacki, Fire Tech Systems, Inc., Vice Chair-Marketing/Investor Relations Rickey Hall, Hall Builders, Inc David R. Smith, EAP Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program

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The services and products advertised are not approved or endorsed by HUD, USDA, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or any government agency.

Information stated above is subject to change without notice. All applications are subject to underwriting guidelines and approval. This does not constitute an offer to lend or offer an extension of credit. All loans are subject to credit approval. Not all applicants will qualify for all products offered. All loan programs, terms and interest rates are subject to change without notice and may only be available in select markets. Fidelity Bank Co. NMLS# 488639 SBMAG.NET

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• • • • • •

Terry Moore, Merrill Lynch, Vice Chair-Membership Carly Koen, United Way of Northwest Louisiana Scott Ward, Southern Components, Inc. Michael Corbin, Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO), Vice Chair-Public Policy Susan Moffitt, Porsche Shreveport Kendra M. Wheeler, Red River Bank

BOSSIER CHAMBER ANNOUNCES BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 2022 Executive Committee • Eric Barkley, Chairman (CenterPoint Energy) • Barry Regula, Past Chairman (Margaritaville Resort Casino) • Nicole Wilhite, Chair Elect (Citizens National Bank) • Jonathan Reynolds, Finance Chair (Carter Credit Union) • Jerome Dubois, Government Relations Chair (Louisiana Tech Research Institute) • Kathy French, Business & Workforce Development Chair (Port of Caddo-Bossier) • Mike Busada, Community Sustainability Chair (Butler Snow LLP) • Col West Anderson, USAF Retired, Military Relations Chair (Boeing) New to Board • Vita Riner (318 Latino) • Damien Ford (Mike McSwain Architect) • Todd Blanchard (Willis-Knighton Health System) • Col West Anderson, USAF Retired (Boeing) • Kevin Nolten (Cyber Innovation Center) • Carlton Golden (Builders Supply Company, Greater Bossier Economic Development Foundation representative) 2021 Board of Directors Rolling Off • Mike McSwain (Mike McSwain Architect) • Daniel Keeton (Citizens National Bank) • Sgt David Stuart (USAF Retired, KT Consulting) • Terry Moore (Merrill Lynch) • Brad Morris (Cyber Innovation Center) • Rhonda MacIsaac (Willis-Knighton Health System) UNITED WAY OF NORTHWEST LOUISIANA ANNOUNCES 2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS • • • • • • • • • • • •

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Darrin Dixon, Board Chair (Southern University at Shreveport) John Adams, Immediate Past Chair (Marketplace Chevrolet) Don Olson, Vice Chair-Operational Excellence (Retired) John Tuggle, Vice Chair-Impact (Shreve Memorial Library) Keith Carter (Always Best Care) Brittney Dunn (BD Accounting Services) Dr. Rodney Ellis (Southern University at Shreveport) Stormy Gage-Watts (Ochsner Health System) Suyi Georgewill (Cintas) Lyndon Johnson (Calumet) Wayne Lancaster (Coca-Cola) Greg Lott (Progressive Bank) MARCH 2022

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Thomas O’Brien (Raymond James) Christopher Poplawski (Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino) Malcolm Smoak (AEP SWEPCO) Mark Snow (Alliet, Finner, Jolly & McClelland Inc.) Ron Stamps (Ron Christopher Stamps, LLC, Caddo Parish, & the City of Shreveport) Mary Webber (OMNI, L&R Human Resource Consulting, LLC)

GREATER SHREVEPORT CHAMBER ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP CLASS OF 2022 Founded in 1977, the Greater Shreveport Leadership Program is an engaging, in-depth program that develops community-minded business and civic leaders of tomorrow. This yearlong interactive program provides a behind-the-scenes view of the issues that impact the region’s economy. Members of the Greater Shreveport Leadership Class of 2022 include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Emily Antony, Heard, McElroy & Vestal Crystal Blow, LaVanna Properties Olivia Broussard, Progressive Bank Rand Cathey, Eagle Distributing, Inc. Danielle Cooper, BancorpSouth Corey Craft, Home Federal Bank Brandi Falting, Red River Credit Union Walt Gaskins, Community Bank of Louisiana Kevin Gullatt, U.L. Coleman Companies Lauren Hannon, Heard, McElroy, & Vestal Casey Harvill, Bossier Parish Community College Von Jennings, Goodwill Industries RJ Johnson, PFH, Inc. Chris Jones, Eagle Distributing, Inc. Kendra Joseph, Blanchard, Walker, O’Quin & Roberts Jarrett Lofton, Legal Weapon LLC/First District Court Carrie Loridans, Caddo Parish Schools- Captain Shreve Michelle Marcotte, SWEPCO Shelly Marshall, The Providence House Ann Maxey, U.L. Coleman Companies Suzanne McDonald, Cintas David Pratt, Brown Builders Laurie Priftis, Williams Creative Group Tori Smith, Providence House Graeme Weinland, jweinland Group Benefits Regan Wooten, Origin Bank Allison Youngblood, Seeds in Action Community Health

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LOUISIANA , LET’S GIVE COVID THE BOOT!

Louisianans come from all different walks of life.

Whether you work in an office or on a farm. Put out traps or put out fires. Dribble a ball or walk the mall. It’s time we all stepped up and gave COVID the boot.

If you’re vaccinated, get the booster for maximum protection. If you’re not, get vaccinated so you don’t get sick or pass the virus on to someone who is vulnerable like a tiny baby or an older adult.

Whatever shoes you wear, step up Louisiana and give COVID the boot.

To book your free vaccine or booster, visit vaccines.gov. or call 855-453-0774 to speak with a trusted medical professional.

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MAX SAX

ON THE

SB KIDS

BY SCOTT ANDERSON

As Max’s skills improved, he outgrew that starter saxophone. It was time for an upgrade. So Max had a choice to make. “He gave up going to Camp Ozark one summer to buy a new saxophone,” Peyton said.

In the music business, landing your first big break sometimes depends on who you know. For Max, it was who his mom knew that opened that first door with Professor Porkchop and the Dirty Dishes.

“My mom gets her hair done by Jason Coffield’s wife,” Max said. “Mom showed her videos of me playing. She told me to come out one night.” Max met bandmember Coffield along with lead singer and Professor Porkchop himself, Chris McCaa, and the rest of the band one night at Superior Grill. They invited him on stage, where he played “Havana” as his debut.

M

ax Mayeaux is not a typical 15-year-old boy. You see, before “Max on the Sax” blows at shows, Max on the Sax rides a horse, of course. And he’s pretty boss when it comes to lacrosse.

Max is a sophomore at Loyola College Prep, where he plays lacrosse and football. He also trains and competes in equestrian events with Hidden Acres Equestrian Center in Stonewall. He’s done that for 10 years. But Max found his love for music at an early age. He remembers listening to the music his parents enjoyed when he was very young. He also performed in plays at South Highlands Elementary, including the lead role in “Aladdin.”

He picked up the saxophone for the first time as a sixth-grader in the Caddo Middle Magnet band program, under the direction of Krista Fanning. Why the saxophone? “My brother played before me,” Max said. “He played the saxophone, so I started with it, too.” His parents, Peyton and James Mayeaux, still remember that first instrument. “We just got a $250 alto sax I found online,” Peyton said.

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“I still can’t believe I played that in Superior Grill,” Max said.

Max caught the attention of Chris Campisi with the band The Good News. “I was in sixth grade,” Max said. “I didn’t know how to do half the stuff I do now.” That all changed when bandmates Omenka Webb and Dirty Redd stepped in to augment his musical education. “I learned to really play in front of people, to know where I am in the music, to know what’s right and what’s wrong,” Max said.

He started playing in front of people more often, with The Good News and also with Robert Trudeau’s Shreveport Second Line Brass Band.

Max’s mom was aware from the beginning they had a showman on their hands. “When all this first started, we knew he was a performer,” Peyton said. “That wasn’t a surprise.

It was when the switch flipped, and he could hear what others were doing and just play. When all of a sudden he could transpose in his head. That was huge. That’s when we realized we had an awesome responsibility.” It was a responsibility that took some adjustments, she added.

“It was a bit out of our wheelhouse,” she said. “We’d be at Superior, and he’s studying spelling words between sets.”

But the more he played, the more he learned. “Basically, all these bands taught me to play without looking at music,” he said. “I was taught by reading music. But these guys taught me how to improvise correctly.”

Shreveport musician Brady Blade also took Max under his wing as mentor. Thanks to Blade, Max got a behind-thescenes look at live music in New York City. Peyton said that Blade had arranged for Max to meet the saxophone player from the Dave Matthews Band at a concert. But those plans fell through when the sax player contracted COVID. They still enjoyed the concert before landing at Ashford and Simpson’s bar for open mic night after the show.

“They called him up, and the man asked, ‘What are you going to play for us?,’” Peyton said. “Max said, “I’ll just play what you’re playing.’ “We’re sitting there, in this very strange place. The guy starts singing a Christmas song. I’m filming. I say, “Oh, no. Here we go.’ That guy sang and sang.

He never gave Max the chance to get in. Finally, he did, and it was beautiful. I stood there, filming and sobbing. That’s when I realized this is a phenomenal talent,” says Peyton.

Max’s father James adds, “None of this would have happened without Jason Coffield and Chris Campisi. The entire Shreveport music community has embraced our boy and given him amazing opportunities. We will always be thankful for them, and we are incredibly proud of Max.” Max said the biggest thing he has learned about playing music is the importance of the fundamentals. “Improv is very

hard,” he said. “It’s really making sure you know your scales.

Knowing all the scales will get you anywhere in the improv world. And sometimes you have to know when to play the wrong note. It’s all about how you make other people sound, too.” Back in Shreveport, Max is diligent about keeping up with his music, his academics, and his athletics. It’s a delicate balancing act, he said.

“I leave the house when it’s dark, and come back when it’s dark,” Max said. “It’s hard to balance waking up, going to school, coming home, and riding my horse, too. It’s hard to get good grades. But staying busy keeps you out of trouble.

I’d get bored if I didn’t do it.”

Max does not have definite plans yet for college or beyond. After all, he is a teenager. But he does not foresee losing his love of music. “I really don’t have an idea yet what I want to do, or where I want to go to college,” Max said. “I know I’m not going to go for sports or anything like that. I’d like to keep playing music throughout my life, even if it’s not my paying job.”

Music has taught him one other important lesson he will carry throughout his life. “What I have really learned is how to communicate with people,” Max said. “I have learned to deal with all types of people. I worked with artists and producers in New York and learned what I want to do and what I don’t want to do. You have to know your audience and who you are playing to. Learn to read the reactions of the crowd.

If your audience isn’t paying enough attention, play the wrong note to get them back. It’s all a balance of learning how to communicate with someone.”

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Why are we all so

STRESSED

H

—and what to do about it?

ave you been feeling tense lately? Have you noticed that simple interactions with store clerks, support staff, or co-workers have suddenly turned into a tense, stressful episode?

Since when did Americans, who have the international reputation of being friendly and outgoing, become a stressed-out bunch of individuals? Over two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, the long-term psychological effects can still be felt.

While acute levels of anxiety and depression that were experienced during the early stages of the pandemic may have subsided for many, evidence of pandemic-related stress in the form of burnout is becoming more of a concern.

Employees have had to learn more, do more, and adapt more.

The buzz word from last year was ‘pivot,’ meaning, you had to suddenly shift your way of doing business. While change can be exciting and good, too much change coming too fast and for too long can result in stress. Even watching the morning news invites stressors, such as a volatile stock market and an increasingly unstable situation in Europe. Given these facts, it is not surprising that many individuals may find themselves facing increasing levels of stress. For many, stress may begin to manifest as ‘burnout’ in the workplace.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), burnout results from chronic workplace stress characterized by feelings of exhaustion or energy depletion, negative or cynical feelings related to a job, and reduced professional efficacy. Burnout is a state of mental and physical exhaustion that can zap the joy out of your career, friendships, and family interactions.

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BY DR. MICHELLE YETMAN

Continual exposure to stressful situations, like caring for an ill family member, working long hours, or witnessing upsetting news related to politics and school safety can lead to this stress condition. Our bodies are not unbreakable machines. Physically and mentally, our bodies can only stay in a state of stress for so long before negative things begin to happen.

Ironically, many individuals do not recognize when they are experiencing burnout. Since the signs are not always easy to spot, burnout can slowly build over time until it reaches a crisis level. Thus, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms so you can protect yourself against burnout. Like most things in life, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

While burnout is not a diagnosable psychological disorder, that does not mean it shouldn't be taken seriously.

Here are some of the most common signs of burnout: Increased Work Stress. Did you used to like your job and feel competent at it but not anymore? Individuals experiencing burnout view their jobs as increasingly stressful and frustrating. They may grow cynical about their working conditions and the people with whom they work. They also may begin to isolate and pull away from colleagues who could provide support.

They may begin to feel numb, angry, or resentful about work and no longer find pleasure in it.

Physical symptoms. The mind-body connection is clear. Stress often first shows up physically. Chronic stress may lead to physical symptoms, like headaches and stomachaches or intestinal issues. Sleep problems, such as fatigue or insomnia, may also present.

Emotional exhaustion. Where an individual was once an efficient, productive employee, burnout causes people to feel drained, unable to cope, and tired. They often lack the energy to get their work done. This can result is irritability and impatience with others.

Reduced performance. Burnout affects everyday tasks at work— or in the home—when someone's main job involves caring for family members. Individuals with burnout feel negatively about tasks.

Concentration and focus problems are common. It is hard to feel creative and enthusiastic about work when you are suffering from burnout.

Most people have been in a period of prolonged stress before they begin to recognize the negative effects. Once you recognize you may be suffering from burnout, it is important to begin to take immediate action. Here are a few steps you can take: 1.

Take Control / Make Changes Taking immediate action, even in small ways can be empowering. Is it necessary you attend every meeting in person all week? There are only 24 hours in a day. You need to prioritize what is important to you and be okay with leaving something on tomorrow’s ‘to do’ list. Delegate whenever possible; do not try to be the hero. Know it is okay to ask for help.

2.

Talk to Someone Use the support of your work colleagues, friends, or a therapist. Burnout is a very real and quite common phenomenon. During certain stages in life, e.g., working women with young children at home, juggling it all can seem impossible. Other people have been where you have been. Reach out for help, guidance, support, or just a good listening ear.

3.

Recharge Your Battery You know what they say about all work and no play? Not only does it make you dull, but it will also make you very unhappy. Every day, practice some form of selfcare. Do something that makes you happy. Walk for 30 minutes in the sunshine at lunchtime. Too busy? Close your office door and meditate for 5 minutes. Do something for yourself every day that recharges you and makes you feel happy. Remember to leave work at work (if possible), but at a minimum, have a cut off time.

4.

Practice Preventive Mental Health We all need to be vigilant about protecting our mental health. Making sure to get good quality sleep every night, eat healthy, exercise and spend time with friends and family are important ways to protect mental health.

It is important to note that burnout shares many of the symptoms with other more serious mental health conditions such as depression. Depression can be a life-threatening condition and individuals with depression often experience negative feelings and thoughts about all aspects of life, not just at work. Depression symptoms may also include a loss of interest in things, feelings of hopelessness, cognitive and physical symptoms as well as thoughts of suicide. If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.

Michelle Yetman, PhD, is a Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Associate Professor Clinical at the Children’s Center at the School of Allied Health Professions at LSU Health Shreveport.

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Make a Statement E M P O W E R I N G

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SLOANSFORMALS.COM

THE OFFICES WITH THE RED DOORS.

I

was born and raised right here in Bossier City, where I attended Apollo Elementary, Greenacres Middle School, and Airline High School. I went to undergrad at LSU, then dental school at LSU School of Dentistry. I am happily married to my beautiful wife, Rebekah, and have two wonderful sons, Patrick (2) and Luke (3 months).

I went into dentistry because I wanted to be in the health profession like my mom and dad. My mom was an RN, and my dad was a CRNA. I got out of braces in high school, and my self-confidence improved because of my smile. I was no longer worried about having a large diastema (gap) in my upper front teeth.

That, and my parents, helped steer me towards dentistry. It just so happens that my now mother-in-law was a dental hygienist, and I got to observe her and her office. It confirmed my thoughts of wanting to go into the dental profession.

I have always had a passion for helping others, pretty much like anybody else, but I wanted to help improve their comfort at the dentist and their smile. We have many people who come to Hooper Family Dentistry, who have had previous bad experiences. One of our main goals is to make a patient feel comfortable and to build trust. We try to listen then assess. I aim to help a patient understand anything I am doing, which will help build trust. I welcome questions and try to treat everyone how I want to be treated. Of course, I also want to help a patient smile more, whether that is just making someone feel comfortable, getting somebody out of pain, performing a simple filling, giving someone a smile back with dentures or partials, or doing veneers/crowns.

God has blessed me, and I hope to pass His blessing onto others. I love being back home and being able to help my community.

PROUDLY SERVING BOSSIER, SHREVEPORT, BARKSDALE, & SURROUNDING AREAS HOOPER FAMILY DENTISTRY TREATS PATIENTS LIKE FAMILY AND WITH THE UTMOST RESPECT. YOU WILL BE KNOWN

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SB PARENTING

the value of

QUALITY TIME

BY URSULA BRANTLEY

I

n a world full of careers, bills, extracurricular activities, home management, and a slew of other responsibilities, parents do their best to make sure they’re spending much needed quality time with their children.

It’s not always easy balancing life and parenthood, but consistent one-on-one time with your children is vital to their development. According to Our World in Data, a trusted source of information for publications such as The Wall Street Journal and institutions such as Oxford University, the amount of time that parents are spending with their children has been increasing over the last 50 years. When it comes to getting in that one-on-one time with children, the key things are consistency and undivided attention. That means disconnecting from devices and really focusing on one another.

Quality Over Quantity Many parents feel guilty when various responsibilities cut into time with their children, but studies have shown that the quality of time parents spend matters more than the quantity. The National Association for the Education of Young Children, or NAEYC, reports that high quality time is what is most beneficial to children and has a positive effect on them as they grow.

Having a weekly movie night, participating in a favorite activi-

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ty, or reading before bed are all great ways to connect.

Individual Time Strong child-parent relationships help build self-confidence, promotes positive behavior inside and outside the home, helps children with their academics, and strengthens the family bond. Children need quality time from both parents if that is an option for them. It’s true that many children are raised in single parent homes, but if they have access to both parents, it is crucial that they receive consistent quality time with each parent. According to Psychology Today, time alone with mom can be different from time alone with dad, and those differences reinforce the strengths that come from each of them.

Small Gestures Time doesn’t always permit for certain activities or routines and that’s completely understandable. Something as small as leaving a note in your child’s lunch or telling jokes and sing-

ing songs on the way to school can also make a child feel seen and valued. Those moments may not seem like much, but it can mean the world to the child as well as the parent.

Communication Spending valuable time with your children also encourages positive communication skills. It can be difficult to get more than a one- or two-word answer when asking your child about their day so it matters how you phrase your questions. Instead of asking an open-ended question like, “How was your day?” try asking, “What was your biggest challenge today? How did you work through it?”

You’d be surprised at how much information children are willing to share if they are asked the right questions. Participating in quality conversations also teaches children how to properly express themselves in a safe space.

Love It’s also essential to tell your children that you love them every day. When a child feels loved at home, they won’t feel the need to find love and affection elsewhere. As adults, we know that searching the world for love and attention can lead to the dangerous situations and unwise choices that we try to protect our children from. Building emotionally and mentally strong children be-

gins at home with their parents and families. Children who are raised in loving environments tend to carry those values with them as they grow up and go on to raise their own families.

As the saying goes, it’s easier to raise strong children than it is to fix broken adults.

STILL MINISTERING TO OTHERS

Harvey Gafford and his wife of more than four decades, Sandra, have been blessed with a nicely sized family that includes five adult children and ten grandchildren.

(Harvey himself is the 14th of 19 siblings.) When he’s not wrapped up in his own family, he ministers to others in God’s family as a deacon at his church.

After suffering from a gunshot wound when he was 18, Harvey struggled for years with drop foot and partial paralysis in his right leg. His job at a hospital contributed to further issues, beginning with an infection that took half his foot and ultimately caused recurring infections that led to the amputation of his leg below the knee.

He grappled with inferior prostheses for years that gave him “nothing but trouble”—until by chance he struck up a conversation with a stranger wearing a prosthesis, who happened to work at Snell’s and invited Harvey to come by for an initial consultation.

“That’s how I got started going to Snell’s and I’ve been happy ever since.” He hopes his life may somehow serve as an example for others. “If the pictures (and my story) can help anyone who is going through something similar, then that’s what I’m all about.”

Image by Neil Johnson Photography

www.SnellsOnline.com ORTHOTICS • PROSTHETICS

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Nemesis Grand Bal V Krewe of Nemesis Grand Bal V “It’s 5 o’ clock Somewhere” was held at the Springhill Civic Center.

The Royal Court dressed in costumes representing different places around the world raising a glass in celebration of Mardi Gras.

1. Queen V Meredith Johnson 2. King V Shane Nippers 3. Captain V Michelle Parkerson 4. Co-Captain V Melanie Scruggs 5. Nemesis King V Shane Nippers with daughters Shelbi and Skye Zaruba 6. Duke of Mayhem Nathan Pickard 1

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Oceanus Grand Bal Krewe of Oceanus Grand Bal was held at Cordaro’s Event Center. The newest krewe was formed in 2020 by residents of Southern Hills who wanted to give back to their community in a positive way. 1. Captain I Parker Ward 2. King I Shilpan Patel, Queen I Christel Patel and their little Princess Emily Patel 3. Co-Captains Casey Cobb and Roann Nolen 4. Duke and Duchess of Cross Lake Paul and Danielle Driver-Roussel with their son, Prince Sutton Driver 5. Duke of Red River Jason DeLoach 120

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The Queen’s Cartoonists play music from classic cartoons and contemporary animation.

With their performances synchronized to video projections of the original films, the band of six worldclass professional musicians will lead you through a world of virtuosic musicianship, multiinstrumental mayhem, and comedy. Expect the unexpected from a repertoire that includes the Golden Age of animation, cult cartoon classics, modern animation and elements of a musical circus. The Queen’s Cartoonists present a concert for everyone!

thestrandtheatre.com (318) 226-8555

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Go Red for Women The 2022 Northwest Louisiana Go Red for Women Gala “Reclaim your Rhythm” was held at Sam’s Town Casino Ballroom. Go Red for Women is not just about wearing red and donating to the American Heart Association, it’s also about preventing heart disease and stroke by promoting a healthy lifestyle through education and awareness. Local Sponsor CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health Systems had blood pressure screenings during the pre-event and encouraged guests to “Stay on Beat and Know your Blood Pressure Numbers.” SB Magazine was proud to be a sponsor of such an amazing charitable event. 1. Go Red Chair Jana Freeman Forrest with Vice President Greater Louisiana American Heart Association Kerin Spears 2. CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System CEO T. Steen Trawick, M.D. with wife Ronda Trawick 3. Ryan and Brandy Thompson 4. Rhonda Anderson and Margaret Shehee 5. Karen M. Barnes and Dana Smelser 6. Mona Cunningham, Laura Scott Speer, and Pam Dunlap 1

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Critical Mass 10 Literacy and Visual Arts Showcase was held at Artspace with more than 100 Northwest Louisiana artists participating in this Shreveport Regional Arts Council event. Critical Mass 10 brought professional critical reviews from nationally acclaimed Visual Art Critic Emily Wilkerson and Literary Art Critic Leigh Camacho Rourks. 1. Genaro Ky’ ly’ Smith won Critical Mass 10 Literacy Award of $2,000 for his fiction entitled “A Napalm Lullaby.” Smith is pictured with Artspace President Joe Kane and Literary Critic Leigh Camacho Rourks 2. Debra Roberson won the Critical Mass 10 Visual Award of $2,000 with her photography piece entitled “A Voltre Sante’’ of Highland Hospital hallway to the Cancer Center. Pictured with Debra Roberson is Artspace President Joe Kane and Visual Art Critic Emily Wilkerson. 3. Artist Devin Rachuk with her son Lukin McClintic and her photography artwork entitled “The Empath.”

4. Artist Kinberger embossed a copper sheet with alcohol ink to depict “Throw Me Something Mister!” pictured with Janice Dailey

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Krewe of Centaur Grand Bal XXX “Centaur Reminisces,” held at Shreveport Convention Center, was a walk down

memory lane, sharing memories of the past 30 years. Captain Ricky Bridges began the Tableau followed by the Duke and Duchess of Frolic Jason and Marji Howard, the Duke and Duchess of Fantasy Fred Lowery II and Linda Meservey, Duke and Duchess of Fun Dustin and Rachel Powell, and Duke and Duchess of Food Steve Mrozek and Margaret Farmer. Also included in the Tableau were Princess Landry Brancamp, Princess Zoey Hays, Princess Marianna Murphey, Princess Anna Claire Smith, Prince Blake Brown, Prince Christian Meehan, Prince Darren Melton, and Prince Collin Saunders. The grand finale of the Tableau was the presentation of the ever so graceful and elegant Centaur Queen XXX Tracey James and the Regal Centaur King XXX Hal Rogers. 1. Centaur Captain XXX Ricky Bridges 2. Centaur King XXX Hal Rogers and Queen XXX Tracey James 3. Centaur King XXX Hal Rogers 4. Centaur Queen XXX Tracey James 5. Centaur Duke of Food Steve Mrozek and Duchess or Food Margaret Farmer 6. Grand Marshal and American Idol Winner Laine Hardy performs “Hurricane” for Centaur Queen XXX Tracey James 7. Centaur King XXX Hal Rogers, Captain Jimmy Bridges, Grand Marshall and American Idol Winner Laine Hardy, Marguerite Papa, and Queen XXX Tracey James 1

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Gemini Grand Bal XXXIII “Night at the Movies” was held at the Shreveport Convention Center. It was Lights, Camera, Action! as Gemini paid tribute to some of their favorite films like Goldfinger, Forrest Gump, Cannonball Run, Talladega Nights, and Aquaman. The Royal Court came out in elaborate costumes representing their most treasured movies. The Gemini Captain XXXIII Jamey Purdy introduced his cinema loving royals: Duke of Arkansas Reno Arnold, Duchess of Arkansas Ramee Dickerson, Duke and Duchess of Louisiana Robert and Cathy Zahn, Duke of Texas Sam Cooksey and Duchess of Texas Anita Seggelink. The young Royals were Prince Noah Matlock, Princess Anna Claire Criswell, Princess Hannah Matlock, and Princess Kinsley Peyton. Gemini King XXXIII Patrick Gallagher and Gemini Queen XXXIII Mary Gallagher were Majestic Monarchs of the Sea in their royal aqua attire.

The Krewe of Gemini is a non-profit volunteer organization who enjoy giving back to the community and promoting the Mardi Gras Spirit in Northwest Louisiana.

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1. Duke of Texas Sam Cooksey with wife Sue Cooksey 2. Gemini Captain XXXIII Jamey Purdy 3. Gemini Queen XXXIII Mary Gallagher 4. Duke of Louisiana Bob Zahn 5. Gemini King XXXIII Patrick Gallagher 6. Duchess of Texas Anita Seggelink 7. Duchess of Louisiana Cathy Zahn 8. Duke and Duchess of Arkansas Reno Arnold and Ramee Dickerson 9. Gemini XXXIII Princess Kinsley Peyton, Prince Noah Matlock, Princess Anna Claire Criswell, and Princess Hannah Matlock 10. Former Queen Mary Louise Stansell

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SB EVENTS

5TH ANNUAL CANE RIVER FILM FESTIVAL

CREATE YOUR OWN GLASS BLOWING ART WORKSHOPS

Venue: Date: Price: Info:

Venue: Sanctuary Glass Studio Date: Recurring weekly Time: Wednesday–Thursday 9am to 5pm Friday–Saturday 12pm to 8pm Sunday 9am to 5pm Price: Contact the studio for pricing Info: www.sanctuaryglassstudio.com Visit the Sanctuary Glass Studio and create your own glass artwork such as hummingbird feeders, wine glasses, pilsner beer glasses, decorative bowls, flowers, and more.

You heat the glass, gather the color, and blow the glass while an artist assists you in creating a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Historic Downtown Natchitoches March 18-19 $4 www.caneriverfilmfestival.com

The Cane River film festival is produced by the Resurrection Fern Foundation, Inc., a Louisiana non-profit 501(c)3 organization founded in 2012 with the mission of historic preservation of the Cane River Creole heritage. We want to share our Louisiana stories with a Worldwide audience, seek opportunities for distribution and celebrate student and independent filmmakers’ achievement in telling the stories they want to tell.

BOSSIER CITY MAKERS FAIR Venue: Date: Time: Price: Info:

Louisiana Boardwalk in Bossier City March 19 11am to 6pm Free www.BossierCityMakersFair.com.

The event features a large all-handcrafted fair showcasing artisans selling everything from canvas and multimedia art, stained glass, canning, jewelry, knitting, fruits and veggies, salsa, upcycled furniture, artisan soap, pies and cookies, signs, clothing, food, candles, pottery, food trucks, pizza, tacos, tamales, leather goods, wreaths, textiles, home décor, clothing, knives, ceramics, homemade artisan food, baked goods, honey, and more. So grab a bite to eat, shop the handmade maker booths located around the entire boardwalk, and enjoy the atmosphere with live music, belly dancing, and fun activities for the whole family.

THE LOUISIANA REDBUD FESTIVAL Venue: Date: Time: Price: Info:

Vivian Town Square March 19 9am to 5:30pm Free www.laredbud.com

The Louisiana Redbud festival will feature arts, crafts, food, entertainment, and a 5-K run and walk at 8:00am.

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EAST BANK EASTER MARKET Venue: Date: Time: Price:

East Bank District and Plaza April 9 1pm Free

The April Easter Market will showcase artists’ latest creations.

Bring the kids and the pets. There will be a scavenger hunt throughout the East Bank District from 1pm - 6pm. Everyone that completes the scavenger hunt will receive a prize egg and will be entered into a drawing for a large gift basket.

SYMPHONY OF ILLUSIONS Venue: Date: Time: Info:

RiverView Theater April 2 7:30pm www.shreveportsymphony.com

Master illusionist Michael Grandinetti brings his magic to the stage with Michael Butterman conducting the SSO. Enjoy a spell-binding evening of fun and surprises for all ages.

CORK XVI: A RED RIVER REVEL WINE EVENT Venue: Date: Time: Price:

Festival Plaza in Shreveport April 2 2pm to 5pm $85

Enjoy the area’s premier spring wine event with all your friends - be seen on the scene of CORK XVI! Receive a signature CORK wine glass and spend the afternoon socializing and tasting from a selection of over 100 wines and impeccable bites from local eateries. Wine experts will be on hand to offer advice and answer questions. Live music, raffle drawings, and fun await at CORK XVI!

SHREVEPORT’S PREMIER FLOTATION THERAPY STUDIO

SHREVEPORT BALLET PRESENTS COPPELIA Venue: Date: Time: Prices: Info:

Riverview Theatre April 9 and April 10 2:30pm $35, $45, $55 www.shreveportmetroballet.org or 318-221-8500

Coppélia, performed by professional ballet companies worldwide since its debut in Paris in 1870, is an enchanting comic ballet with something for everyone: quirky personalities, mistaken identity, a little magic and mayhem, and triumphant love.

RUN WITH THE ANGELS Venue: In person and Virtual options Holy Angels Campus, 10450 Ellerbe Road Date: April 23 Time: 8am Price: $25 Info: www.laholyangels.org The 21st Annual David Rice Memorial Angel Run and Walk helps to further the Holy Angels mission to provide individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities a path to self-fulfillment through education, empowerment, spirituality, independence and work.

GLASSBLOWING SHREVEPORT/BOSSIER’S HOTTEST PARTY VENUE

• Reduce inflammation • Soothe back & joint pain • Relieve stress

www.floatshreveport.com 318-426-1910 • 714 Azalea Dr. Shreveport, LA

www.sanctuaryglassstudio.com

423 Lake Street • Shreveport, LA • 504.390.4377 SBMAG.NET

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Saint

PATRICK’S JELL-O parfait

B

oth adults and kids love Jell-O®, and with so many flavors to choose from, it’s no surprise that it’s a go-to snack for many people. Of course, it’s easy to whip up some Jell-O on its own, but what about a St. Patrick’s Day Jell-O Parfait? This perfect sweet treat is so simple to make and tastes delicious! You can even modify it by using different flavors of Jell-O and different colors of sprinkles to suit the holiday. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

INGREDIENTS ζ ζ ζ

Lime Jell-O (1 package or 3 oz) Cool Whip whipped topping (1 cup thawed) Green Sprinkles

INSTRUCTIONS

1.

2.

3.

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Prepare Jell-O: Prepare Jell-O according to package directions. Set aside 1/3 cup. Spoon remaining Jell-O into 4 to 5 dessert or wine glasses.

Chill Jell-O: Chill glasses at an angle until Jell-O is set (overnight is best) Prepare whipped topping: Fold whipped topping into remaining (1/3 cup) Jell-O. Refrigerate until ready to use.

4. Prepare Jell-O Parfait: Spoon topping mixture into glasses of set Jell-O. Top with a dollop of Cool Whip and meringues, then sprinkle green sprinkles over the top. Chill and serve.

Saint

PATRICK’S CRISPY treats

W

ho doesn’t love Rice Krispies® treats?

Say hello to easy rice krispies treats with sprinkles! Gooey, marshmallow-y, and addicting, these homemade rice cereal treats are simple and fun to make, plus they taste amazing. With St. Patrick’s Day right around the corner, this is the perfect ‘leprechaun’ friendly desert! Be sure to save this recipe in your dessert recipe book when you need something quick, cute, and tasty.

INGREDIENTS ̗ ̗

̗

̗ ̗

Butter (2 sticks or 1 cup): Salted or unsalted will work.

Marshmallows (2-20 oz bags of marshmallows, reserve 2 cups): Mini ones melt easier. If you’re using large marshmallows, melt on low heat to avoid unnecessary burning.

Salt (1 teaspoon kosher salt): Balances out the sweetness from the marshmallows. If you’re using salted butter, you can leave the extra salt out.

Rice Krispies (8 cups of rice cereal) Green Sprinkles (3/4 cup of green St. Patrick’s Day sprinkles)

INSTRUCTIONS

1.

2.

3.

4.

Melt your butter & marshmallows: Melt down your butter in a large pot. Add in the marshmallows and cook on medium-low heat until they are melted.

Add in your Rice Krispies: Remove marshmallow mixture from heat and add in rice krispie cereal and mix until they are incorporated.

Sprinkles + Extra Marshmallows: Allow the mixture to cool slightly (this will help the extra marshmallows and sprinkles from melting into the batter), and then add the sprinkles and extra marshmallows.

Mold your Rice Krispie Treats: Line a sheet, pan, or rectangle cake pan with parchment paper and spread out the rice krispie mixture evenly. Top with a bit more sprinkles and cool until hardened.

Remove and cut into squares.

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AND ANOTHER THING…

PeaBug & the Parable of

THE GNAT

A

fter the coldest, wettest, most bitter late winter most any of us can remember, we should be kicked in our nether regions if we complain when it gets Africa hot here soon in north Louisiana.

Sweat beats shivering any ol’ day.

Come on, sweet springtime!

Spring. It always takes the little-boy

BY TEDDY ALLEN part of my brain back to Mr. PeaBug, who lived in a big white two-story wood farmhouse with the same dirt circle driveway of most of the other farmers in our Carolina county. He was short and tan and always carried a look of youthful surprise and wonder and happiness on his fleshy face.

The story of the nickname he earned in childhood should be better, but the simple fact is he liked to find a bug and eat it with a raw pea, right there in the field. Who doesn’t?

PeaBug. It fit. You loved him for his name and his easy-going disposition, but I had an extra reason: he gave me the best grass-mowing lesson I ever received.

Besides paying an 8-year-old-me to drive one of his tractors and occasionally pick his cucumbers when everything ripened at once, he paid me to mow his grass. The first day I did he stopped me in mid-mow because I was swatting gnats with one hand and pushing the mower with the other, one hand short of what was needed. Miserable.

“Cut a hole in your britches,” he said.

“Sir?” “If you cut a little hole in the back of your britches, the gnats will swarm down there and leave your face alone.”

Brilliant. That was Mr. PeaBug. Wisely, he didn’t use that as an illustration the next weekend, the Sunday morning he had to fill in for the preacher at our little church. If he did, I didn’t hear it. This is because no one heard a single word of what we suspected was his sermon that morning.

It wasn’t his fault. Out of his heart’s goodness, he’d volunteered to pinch-hit when the preacher phoned him, somewhat shyly, to share the disconcerting news that a testy demon-possessed hemorrhoid he’d encountered would have to be exorcised. At once.

Exorcism or death, said the pastor, his distress obvious.

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The timing was not ideal; this was Saturday evening. Sunday service was a few short hours away. Even under this kind of pressure, Mr. PeaBug was moved to compassion, maybe because he’d experienced a bothersome hemorrhoid, or maybe because of the pastor’s sobs.

Either way, it was A Moment.

Unfortunately, sincerity does not a public speaker make. Mr. PeaBug was like all the other farmers I grew up around in that he never raised his voice. Calm on the outside through flood or drought, or at least that’s the way it appeared behind the clouds of cigarette smoke.

But on this Sunday morning, Mr. PeaBug, clearly out of his element, needed to raise his voice a little. The man who stood behind the pulpit was a man I’d never seen before. Or heard.

We could tell he was talking, or trying to, because his mouth was moving…wasn’t it? Yes, it was definitely moving, because in the early going the gum he’d been chewing dropped out onto his Bible.

It is possible I heard him say something about God. He might have mentioned prayer, and possibly the devil. Something about a fishing net. And suddenly, his head was bowed, his eyes closed. He must have been leading us in prayer, because as soon as his head lifted, he walked quickly to the preacher’s chair and sat down.

He looked so wilted you couldn’t tell if he’d been preaching or plowing.

The whole thing lasted five minutes.

After it was all over I found him getting into his LTD. I thanked him.

“It’s not easy doing the work of the Lord, Mr. PeaBug,” I said. “That’s what my momma tells me. Says it’s a hard, hard thing to do sometimes.”

He smiled, or tried to.

And I told him I always cut a hole in the back of my britches whenever I mowed. And thought of him whenever I killed a gnat.

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