SB Magazine -June - East Bank Mafia - Locally Owned

Ȱ LOCALLY-OWNED BUSINESSES Ȱ Ȱ Ȱ

PICKLEBALL LE TOUR DES JARDINS AUTHOR’S CORNER

EAST BANK SBMAG.NET | MAY 2022 |

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Heirloom Portraits that capture the

innocence of life.

Morgan Negard is a full-time photographer specializing in classic, heirloom vignette portraits. Heirloom portraits are a form of classic artistry that captures the essence of your child in a truly timeless way and tells the story of the precious innocence that each stage of life holds.

Heirloom portrait sessions are geared toward children between the ages of 6 months and 18 years, but Morgan has also photographed collegeaged children and loves the way those portraits turn out just as much as those of the young children. Her studio is in Shreveport and portraits are photographed against a white backdrop with studio lighting.

Morgan offers a large selection of outfits for both boys and girls in various sizes which are free for you to use for your child’s portrait if you don’t already have something in mind. “Some clients like to have custom heirloom outfits made that will be passed down in their family or use outfits that they wore as children which is always sweet! Since only the shoulders and up will be seen, children can come in their Mickey Mouse slippers or sparkly high heels if they want!”

Email Info@heirloomsbymorgan.com Website www.heirloomsbymorgan.com � Instagram @Heirloomportraitsbymorgan

From miscarriage number one, Morgan decided to keep her mind busy, to find happiness during their struggles, and avoid falling into a depression or losing hope. She dedicated every spare thought and moment during that time to growing and learning as a photographer.

They went down a tough road, but it led them to their greatest blessings, their children, and it revealed Morgan’s true passion to be photography.

“God really can create such beauty in darkness, and I realized that through capturing other people’s joys, I was brought such happiness and hope,” says Morgan.

In the studio, her goal is to make the photography experience super enjoyable and easy for parents, since photographs with small children involved can often be stressful. Sessions are only 20 minutes long, and most of the time, she gets all the shots that she needs in about 10 minutes—about the length of time a child will normally sit still for portraits!

Morgan lives in Shreveport with her husband, Chris, and their four children. She taught elementary school for seven years before becoming a full-time photographer.

She builds in the extra 10 minutes just in case the child needs to take a break, run laps, eat a snack, or have a quick meltdown. Morgan is both patient and understanding, as her children are ages 5 and under. “I have seen the largest tantrums known to man. Not much shakes me, and I have always been able to get “the shot” for every single child I have photographed.”

Several years ago, when she and her husband decided to start a family, they faced a difficult journey—the pain of multiple miscarriages followed by fertility troubles, doctor visits, treatment plans, and surgery.

An heirloom vignette portrait will become a treasure in your home.

“What an honor it is to be able to freeze such precious moments in time that will be passed down for generations to come!”

SBMAG.NET

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PUBLISHER

EDITOR

G. Byron May

T

OWNERS

his issue we celebrate all our locally owned businesses and their commitment to our communities.

It’s really exciting to see how the East Bank District is taking off in Bossier City. If you haven’t seen it for yourself, you should go! Our cover story is about a group of local business owners who have helped bring the vision for the District to life.

We have a new Author’s Corner this month where we give a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of a book by a Shreveport native. I can’t wait to read this one myself.

Spring is almost behind us, as is school. Parents, look for some tips on healthy eating with your kids this summer. It’s a bittersweet time for parents (like me) who have a graduating senior. Best wishes to all parents and to these students as they enter the next phase of life.

We are interested in what our readers would like to see in future issues. We want to hear from you! Scan the QR code below to respond to a brief survey. Thank you!

Elizabeth Beard Deal Executive Editor

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 Brad Jones Hailey Lawson Seva May Michelle Yetman, PhD

PHOTOGRAPHY Hailey Lawson Debbie Henry

GRAPHIC DESIGN

editor@sbmag.net

Ryan Watson

SALES TEAM LEADER Keyle Cavalier

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

HOW TO REACH US

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

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POSTMASTER Send address changes to SB Magazine, Inc., 850 Stoner Ave., Shreveport, LA 71101. SB Magazine is published monthly by SB Magazine, Inc., 850 Stoner Ave.,

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Shreveport, LA 71101. Advertising Rates on request.

Subscription Rate: $16 per year. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily constitute the view of SB Magazine, Inc. SB Magazine reserves the right to accept or reject advertisements. Third Class Postage Paid at Shreveport, LA 71101.

Copyright © 2022 SB Magazine, Inc. Volume 23, Issue 5

See yourself

here.

apply.LSUS.edu R

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

SBMAG.NET | MAY 2022 3

COVER STORY 18

East Bank Mafia

FEATURES Le Tour des Jardins Home Feature Mental Health Awareness Pickleball

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COLUMNS And Another Thing Art & Culture Author's Corner Beauty Boss Events Calendar Eye on SB Good to Know Manology Parenting Pets Profile Savor

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SPECIAL SECTIONS Locally Owned

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18

22

ON THE COVER

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L to R: Doug Rodgers, Lindsey Rodgers, Aaron "Chef Peanut" Hanning, Beau Hays, Haylie Hays, Brittney Reeve, Brian Reeve. See East Bank Mafia article on page 18.

EYE ON SB

Cotillion LXXIII Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, and Children of all ages,

BY DEBBIE HENRY

The Cotillion Club welcomed guests to “The Greatest Show” Cotillion LXXIII. The historic Shreveport Municipal Auditorium was turned into a three-ring circus with actual circus performers for entertainment. After the Grand March, there was Jester Merriment with Call Out Dancing with music from The Bill Causey Orchestra. A Royal Banquet of Circus Faire was held outside the Municipal, just Under the Big Top Tent. Dancing continued through the night in the Three Ring Circus with musical stylings from the Dallas Band, Grooveline.

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1. His Royal Majesty, Rex LXXIII Mr. Mark Pollard Sealy and Her Royal Majesty, Regina LXXIII Miss Natalie Ann Lukacs 2. Her Royal Highness, The Princess Miss Sidney Marie Harman Ross and His Royal Highness, The Prince Mr. Lucas Allen LeBlanc 3. His Royal Highness, The Prince Mr. Drew Richard Dethloff and Her Royal Highness, The Princess Miss Emma Madison Yerger 4. Lady Rachel Devereux Richards, Lady Ainsley Elise Stansell, Lady Mary Frances Elizabeth Ratcliff, and Lady Holly Gene Dorsett 5. His Majesty’s Page, Master Scott Hawkins Fritze with grandparents George and Minou Fritze 6. Hannah and Lexie Kendrick with little sister and Court Herald, Miss Katherine Ivy Kendrick 7. Her Royal Majesty, Regina LXXIII Miss Natalie Ann Lukacs with her family Andrew, Ginger and Patrick Lukacs 8. Jesters! 9. Ushers Holden McInnis Webb, Samuel Stephen Vekovius, Graham Steen Trawick, and Andrew Ramsey Stuart SBMAG.NET

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Crawfest 2022 Crawfest 2022 was held at Betty Virginia Park off Line Avenue. The three-day festival is a celebration of

food, music, heritage, and community. As soon as guests entered the park, the aroma of crawfish boil was in the air. Shane’s Seafood provided the abundant and absolutely delicious crawfish. Several local food trucks and vendors were also on the scene.

Crawfest 2022 featured local bands such as Cory Cross Band, Cody Cooke & the Bayou Outlaws, Dan Smalley and BCAM & the Zydeco Youngbucks just to name a few. Grammy Award winner Wayne Toups, an internationally known American Cajun singer and songwriter was the Crawfest Headliner. Toups brought high energy to the stage, and told everyone to “Pass a Good Time.”

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Best in Sheaux The William A. Robinson Foundation presented “Best in Sheaux- A Homecoming to Remember” at Shreveport Riverview Hall. The Westminster Style dog show showcased a dozen adorable pooches as the “Homecoming Court.” ArkLaTex Therapy Dog “Beanie” was crowned Homecoming Queen and winner of Best in Sheaux 2022. This runway dog show and gala benefitted the Robinson’s Rescue Low Cost Spay/Neuter Program. 1. Caddo Commission Clerk Jeff Everson with Andrea Everson, CEO & Medical Director of Robinson’s Rescue 2. Deb Badt and “Murphy” with Best in Sheaux Event Chair Sherron Bihm 3. Heather Birmingham with Jamin Dooley 4. Courtney Wingate and Sarrah Walton 5. Harriet and Litt Martin 1

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Christmas in the Sky Theme Announcement Party Shreveport Regional Arts Council hosted a Theme

Announcement Party at Central Art Station for the internationally award-winning gala, Christmas in the Sky. Chair Heidi Kallenberg introduced her Co-Chairs, Auction and Design Chairs, Design Teams, Sponsors and all of the many volunteer teams that create this magical event. Dressed as cupid, Pam Atchison, SRAC Executive Director along with actors and performers revealed the 2022 Christmas in the Sky theme: Kiss a Frog! Atchison welcomed everyone to the December 2022 black-tie glamorous fundraiser for SRAC, promising “An Enchanted Evening of Fairy Tales, Tall Tales and Cocktales!”

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Cypress Baptist Pastor John and Darla Fream with Tim Tebow

Tim Tebow at Cypress Baptist Church in Benton

Internationally known athlete, author, and inspirational speaker Tim Tebow came to the town of Benton to speak at Cypress Baptist Church. As an NFL quarterback, Tebow tackled religion on the field, by publicly kneeling on football fields to pray. Tim Tebow not only has won the Heisman Trophy and two national championship titles, but has also become a New York Times bestselling author for his book Mission Possible. Outspoken about his Christian Faith and dedicated to philanthropy, Tim Tebow encouraged those in attendance to “find their mission and pursue a bolder, brighter, more fulfilling life.”

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1. Co-Chairs Ro White and Elizabeth Kennedy with Christmas in the Sky Chair Heidi Kallenberg 2. Production Director Bruce Allen with Clint McCommon, and Jim Malsch 3. Daryl and Yvonne Mitchell 4. Sky Auction Co-Chair Melanie Johnson with Sky Auction Chair Julie Lyles, and Sky Co-Chair Ro White 5. Sky Team Committee Member Gail Brown with Sandy and George Bakowski 6.

Randy and Tracey James with Courtney Batts and Presenting Sponsor Michael Acurio, M.D. 7. Martee Reeg, Sky CoChair Elizabeth Kennedy, Sky Auction Display Chair Jessica O’Neill, and Stacy Calligas 8. Gregory Kallenberg with Sandi Kallenberg, SRAC Chairman

Gumbo Gladiator The 9th annual Battle of the Gumbo

Gladiators, a gumbo cook-off fundraiser for Volunteers of Youth Justice was held at Festival Plaza in downtown Shreveport.

Nearly 30 gumbo teams battled for the best gumbo with Team Smokehouse ISD crowned as the “Ultimate Gumbo Gladiator.”

Smokehouse ISD won 1st Place with their chicken and sausage gumbo and also 1st Place in the Lagniappe category. Thrifty Liquor’s Team Thriftus Liquerus won 1st Place with their Seafood Gumbo. Glazer’s Team, The Roux Lounge won the People’s Choice award. Best Booth Design Award went to Raise the Rouxf

by TCS and the Best Team Spirit Award was given to The Krewe of Centaur. No one went home hungry and the proceeds went to a good cause. The Volunteers for Youth Justice help abused, neglected and at-risk children throughout Northwest Louisiana.

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25 YEARS INSTALLING & REPAIRING GATE OPERATORS & ENTRY SYSTEMS

1. Smokehouse ISD took home the 1st Place trophy for Chicken & Sausage Gumbo and also the 1st Place trophy for the Lagniappe category. 2. The Gumbo Gladiators People’s Choice Award went to Glazer’s “The Roux Lounge.” 3. BOM Jana Forrest, Clint Oliver, Kira Yeates, Breanne George, and Jonathan Wall 4.

NOLA Lending Group Derin Patterson, Brian Davidson, Jonathan Clem, and Brandon Burnside 5. Stephanie Williams with Dianne Graham and Joseph Crayton 6. Thrifty Liquor team “Thriftus Liquerus” won 1st Place in the Seafood Gumbo category.

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CORK 2022 Red River Revel’s CORK, a Wine Festival was held at Festival Plaza, Downtown Shreveport. CORK XVI offered

gift bags and signature CORK wine glasses for guests to sample over 85 varieties of fine wines as well as delicious samplings of signature dishes from the area’s finest restaurants and local eateries. The sold-out soiree also included live music and raffles. Wine experts were on hand to share their advanced knowledge of wine. CORK delivers a truly spectacular wine tasting for our region.

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The Robby’s The Robinson Film Center rolled out the red carpet for “The Robby’s” which is our areas version of the Oscars, held on the eve of Hollywood’s Academy Awards. 1. Morris Nichols walks the red carpet with Marilyn Monroe? Aka Waynette Ballengee 2. John and Christy Frierson 3. William and Anna Priestley 4. Corranza and Dr. Evelyn Pryor 5. Dee and Carol Peterson with Sherry Kerr and Tom Giles 6. Sanford and Michelle Katz 7. Drs. Holly and Simeon Wall 10

MAY 2022

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2022

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SB BEAUTY BOSS

TRAVELING IN

At

one point in time, traveling was seen as a major event. People dressed accordingly, pulling out their “SUNDAY BEST” to take to the skies, roads, and railways.

These days, traveling has become such a normal way of life that it seems many of us have lost our sense of traveling style and opted for a more comfortable approach. But I’m here to tell you, you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort! Looking fashion forward and stylish while feeling at ease and comfortable is totally doable. Below are a few tips on how to travel in style:

1. Carry-On Bags Whether it’s a backpack, duffle bag, cross body, or large tote, we all have that extra big bag we carry while on the go. We also tend to carry valuables in them, like credit cards, identification cards, jewelry, and more. Look for a bag in a beautiful neutral shade, like black, white, brown, or gray, which will match any outfit. Try to avoid large prints or flashy branding.

2. Luggage The luggage you choose to carry is undoubtedly an accessory to your travel style and is another form of self-expression. There’s no need to go out and buy a full set of designer luggage; you can find luggage that is stylish at many different price points. Just remember the luggage you select is going to speak to your sense of personal style so make sure it reflects who you are. Purchase a matching set if you truly want to travel in style!

3. Travel Size Cosmetics When traveling, you never know when you are going to have an unnecessary layover or delay and you don’t want to be stuck without some of your beauty basics with you. Many brands produce their most popular products in travel sizes, or in the cosmetic industry, minis. It’s a great idea to have your favorite mascara, blush, lip stick, and concealer in a small version to fit in your carry-on. And don’t forget the trusty makeup wipes to clean that beautiful pallet before freshening up!

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BY JON PAULE CALCOTE

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Buy luggage in a neutral color—like black, white, brown, or gray—so it goes with everything.

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4. Easy On-the-Go Hair Styles A few timeless hair styles that are comfortable to wear and easy to achieve are the sleek high ponytail, the low bun, or the currently trending braid. Whether it’s a French braid or a braided ponytail, braids look cute on anyone at any age and are one of this year’s hottest looks in hair.

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5. Sunglasses Not only do sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays, but they have also become a fashion staple among those who travel frequently as sunglasses can hide the tired eyes of the weary jet lagged traveler catching a connection!

The aviator style and the square frames styles are timeless choices.

6. T-shirt Dress The T-shirt dress— cute, flirty, and easy to wear—is a great, comfortable option when on the move.

Just pick your favorite color and go!

7. Denim Jacket A style staple in many closets throughout the decades, a denim jacket is a perfect choice when traveling. It’s lightweight enough to carry and insulated enough to cut the chill from the A/C or cooler climates.

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s e d i l s t a h t e A sho ff with on and o great ease worksveling. when tra

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8. Boyfriend Jeans These jeans with the baggy fit are both comfortable and stylish, an easy wear no matter your means of transport this traveling season.

9. Travel Shoes When running through airports or train stations, or even just riding in a car, comfortable shoes are a must. Many individuals turn to their trusty athletic sneaker…but there are so many other, more stylish options. Why not try a mule slide, or an adorable pair of timeless ballet flats? In the cooler seasons, a flat ankle bootie is a great choice, and a knee-high boot will keep you warm yet stylish and comfortable.

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♥ Volunteer ♥ Donate ♥ Sponsor

Follow us on

baylorboyd@ renestingprojectinc.org

Reclaim • Renew • Renest

WELCOME TO THE RENESTING PROJECT Renesting Project, a volunteer-powered furniture bank. We offer services to the clients of 50+ partner organizations in North West Louisiana.

Together we serve a very diverse cross-section of our community: school children, mentally or physically disabled persons, domestic violence survivors, and Veterans, among others. Our goal

is to improve the quality of life of those we serve as they transition into permanent housing by providing the basic furniture and household items FREE OF CHARGE to hundreds of men, women, and children in need.

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, we accept donations of gently used furniture and household items, as well as monetary donations. Open for donation drop-offs on Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 AM – 6 PM, and the 2nd & 4th Saturdays of every month from 10 AM – 2 PM.

318.747.5520 • www.renestingprojectinc.org • 1331 Driftwood Dr. Bossier City, Louisiana 71111

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2022 Le Tour

W

des Jardins

ant to see some of the most beautiful gardens in the Shreveport-Bossier area? It’s that time of year again for the Northwest Louisiana Master Gardeners annual spring garden tour. Proceeds from the garden tour fund future Master Gardener projects and help promote the Master Gardeners’ mission to enhance the quality of knowledge for gardeners in the community.

SEE SIX PRIVATE GARDENS:

1. STAN AND BOOTS SWEN GARDEN This Green Acres Place, Bossier City garden has wonderful yard art that tells a story of the garden owners’ travels. The fairy gardens can be enjoyed from multiple seating areas that offer whimsical accessories and lots of color. The gardens contain many unusual plants, and is a true delight, from the Princess Diana Clematis to the Peggy Martin roses, cassia vine, coral bean, Japanese quince, and crinums.

With a gazebo and covered patio, this garden is a must-see.

4. SHARYE AND STEVE ATCHISON GARDEN Located in the Ellerbe Road area, this garden is a delight the moment you arrive, as you wander around part of its five acres and find hidden treasures down each path.

You will be greeted by a fountain surrounded by many perennials, such as black and blue salvia, Shasta daisies, Mexican petunias, and daylilies. As you continue around the back garden you will see a greenhouse, pool, pond, and barn, along with many winding paths covered with Louisiana irises, daylilies, cone flowers, hydrangeas, azaleas and much more.

5. POLLY BULLER GARDEN As you walk up to this South Highlands home, you are drawn to the southern charm with azaleas, Japanese maples, crinums, and a quiet area to reflect.

As you continue past the lace-cap hydrangeas, down the caladium edged driveway to the back garden, you will

A Garden Bazaar will be held during the tour in South Bossier city at the Red River Research Station, with food trucks and vendors and the opportunity to tour the Louisiana Super Plants gardens. Mark Wilson, Northwest Louisiana Horticulture Extension agent, will be on hand to discuss Louisiana Super Plants and answer any questions. find beautiful patios surrounded with maple trees, irises, salvia, foxglove, daylilies and so much more. This garden is a delight!

6. CHARLES RASCOE GARDEN A South Highlands charmer, with a sunny front garden filled with blueberries, daylilies, black-eyed Susan’s, irises, crepe myrtles, roses, and yarrow. This cottage garden has a large collection of irises which will be worth the visit. Not to be missed is the Chinese dogwood. The backyard is a shade loving garden filled with hydrangeas, peonies, Japanese maple, and a lovely, shaded sitting area.

2. JUDY DONALDSON GARDEN Located in Plantation Trace, Bossier City, this home is situated on a corner lot, with wonderful beds everywhere. At the side of the house, there is an oak tree with resurrection fern, surrounded by roses, cannas, loropetalum, Japanese maples and much more. A wrought-iron gate leads to a retreat, complete with a gazebo and She-Shed. As you wander throughout the gardens you will find yard art, gaura, butterfly bush, kaleidoscope abelia, hydrangeas and more.

3. SCOTT AND CHRISTINA CABELL GARDEN Located in Kings Pointe subdivision in Shreveport, this garden is beautifully manicured with a variety of annuals and perennials along with established evergreens. Once you enter the backyard, you have entered an oasis of Oakleaf hydrangea, roses, beebalm, echinacea, African iris, widow’s tears, crown of thorns and summer phlox. Don’t miss the night blooming cereus.

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MANOLOGY

AFATHER'S DAY BRIEF history of

F

ather’s Day is just around the corner. So, in honor of dear old dad, let us look into the history of this great holiday that celebrates fathers everywhere. Unfortunately, most retailers and marketers, in an effort to make a quick buck, have weakened the original meaning of Father’s Day. A holiday that was supposed to honor dad and enumerate his special qualities—now is used to sell gift cards, neck ties, and home improvement tools. But, hopefully, by understanding why the concept of Father’s Day was created, we can better celebrate and honor the all the fathers out there.

There are two stories of when the first Father’s Day was celebrated. According to some accounts, the first Father’s Day was celebrated in Washington State on June 19, 1910.

While listening to a Mother’s Day sermon at church, a woman by the name of Sonora Smart Dodd came up with the idea of honoring and celebrating her father. She felt as though mothers were getting all the acclaim while fathers were equally deserving of a day of praise.

Sonora’s dad was quite a man. William Smart, a veteran of the Civil War, was left a widower when his wife died while giving birth to their sixth child. He went on to raise the six children by himself on their small farm in Washington. To show her appreciation for all the hard work and love William gave to her and her siblings, Sonora thought there should be a day to pay homage to him and other dads like him.

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Inspired, Dodd drew up a petition for the first Father’s Day, which she argued should be celebrated on her father’s birthday in early June. Even though the petition only earned two signatures, Dodd convinced several local church communities to participate— on the condition she pushed the date to the third Sunday to give them more time to prepare. The resulting celebration, in Spokane, Washington, kicked off Dodd’s nearly lifelong mission of promoting Father’s Day for national status.

Over the next half-century, Dodd would travel the United States, speaking on behalf of Father’s Day and campaigning for the cause.

The other story of the first Father’s Day in America happened all the way on the other side of the country in FairBY ADAM BAILEY mont, West Virginia, on July 5, 1908. Grace Golden Clayton suggested to the minister of the local Methodist church that they hold services to celebrate fathers after a deadly mine explosion killed 361 men.

While Father’s Day was celebrated locally in several communities across the country, unofficial support to make the celebration a national holiday began almost immediately. However, it wasn’t until 1972, during the Nixon administration, that Father’s Day was officially recognized as a national holiday. Throughout the years, Presidents Woodrow Wilson, Calvin Coolidge, and Lyndon B. Johnson all wrote in favor of the holiday, but none passed legislation ratifying the holiday during their administrations. In 1970, Congress finally passed Joint Resolution 187, which called on citizens to “offer public and private expressions of such day to the abiding love and gratitude which they bear for their fathers.” President Richard Nixon signed the resolution into law two years later.

To this day, fatherhood has, and continues to be, both a demanding and gratifying endeavor. Father’s Day is an occasion to thank every person who has embraced the challenging role. “If the father's responsibilities are many, his rewards are also great—the love, appreciation, and respect of children and spouse,” wrote President Lyndon B. Johnson.

To all dads—Happy Father’s Day!

IT’S TIME TO GO

EXPLORE Choose from 150+ restaurants, 45 miles of trails and an array of shopping in this vibrant small town with big city vibes.

Plan your trip now at www.visitridgeland.com.

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EAST BANK THE

BY ELIZABETH DEAL

O

Mafia

ld Bossier, the city’s historic downtown neighborhood, had struggled for decades. Like most communities in the US, the city had looked for ways to revitalize its downtown area but had always been faced with the challenge of how to go about the process and how to finance the project. Since knowing that a re-energized downtown would aid in the success of the new high technical jobs that were coming to the area, Bossier City took action.

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The Role of Rebranding and Infrastructure Improvements Recognizing that Old Bossier lacked the charm and polish of newer developments, the Bossier City Council began the process in 2014 with public input forums with young professionals in the area and asked what they would like to see in a downtown area. These forums led the city to the design of a downtown area to be built with a modern, clean, and contemporary feel and style about it. The city did not want to simply copy the styles of typical architecture of a Southern community but wanted a unique look and vibe to the area.

The goal was to create a vibrant arts and entertainment district, rebranding Old Bossier’s identity to attract new visitors, shoppers, and businesses. The city council believed that upgrading the public infrastructure would spur private investment, attract businesses to the area, and ultimately help create the desired arts and entertainment district.

The East Bank District The area had been struggling for an identity for many years and the newly renovated area is now bringing a new synergy to the area. Along with that new synergy, the area needed a new name different from “Old Bossier,” so the area was branded as the East Bank District.

The district has been designed to create a unifying thread that ties the East Bank District together with the adjacent River Front Development area, which hosts our local casinos. Visitors can easily enjoy its entertainment plaza, bike paths, revamped sidewalks, and landscaping, as well as numerous local restaurants, bars, and sporting establishments. Located less than half a mile of nearly two thousand hotel rooms, five casinos, the Louisiana Boardwalk, and I-20—East Bank has quickly become the entertainment jewel of Northwest Louisiana. The East Bank District already had some favorite fixtures in the area like The Original L’Italiano Restaurant, Flying Heart Brew and Pub, and the Bossier Arts Council.

The district has seen a new growth of small businesses that are proud to be a part of the synergy that is taking place in this newly renovated area. Beau Hays, Aaron “Chef Peanut” Hanning, and Brian Reeve opened the first new restaurant in the new district: BeauxJax Crafthouse, a creole and cajun restaurant with plenty of craft beer and cocktails.

Peanut and Hays operated the BeauxJax food truck which preceded the restaurant.

“I think the city had a real focused plan at one point for there to be some synergy there. And then I think everyone was like, ‘I don’t know if it’s really gonna work.’ But they had already presented the opportunity for us to just kind of step in. We got in at the beginning and we were able to run with it. I think we ran as hard as we could as fast as we could to get as much done as possible while it was cheaper. And now that we take a breath we look up and now the property values are all up,” says Hays.

On a trip to Dallas, a friend took Doug Rodgers to “throw axes and drink some beer.” They went to place in Fort Worth similar to a storage unit with a roll up door. “They had a water jug and a boom box.

That’s all there was in this place and there was a line around the corner,” says Rodgers. He decided to open up an axe-throwing joint in this area and was set on an East Bank location. “I said ‘It’s gotta be right here.’ I just knew it had to be by these guys.

It’s hard for the pioneers. The new East Bank District didn’t kick off until these guys did what they did,” says Rodgers. He opened Bayou Axe Company, North Louisiana’s first indoor axe throwing range.

Bayou Axe has a full bar and is located next door to BeauxJax. The four soon went in together to open a third business, The Frozen Pirogue, a seafood restaurant and bar offering Gulf Coast cajun food, oysters, and specialty daiquiris.

Bayou Axe Company

BeauxJax Crafthouse

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Hurricane Alley

The East Bank Mafia Soon after they opened the Frozen Pirogue, they decided they should put a brand together representing their group of businesses. “We’ve always called it ‘the 500 block.’ We’ve just always wanted to kind of make that our home base,” says Rodgers. That’s when they came up with the idea to call themselves the “East Bank Mafia.” “The mafia name really started as a joke, but then it took off,” says Hays. “I’d call it a hospitality group.” Building the district—not just individual businesses—became priority.

Chef’s Table

“The one thing that’s different about what we do and what everybody else does is that most restaurants are very competitive. But we figured out that if we work together, our businesses grow together. It’s a rising tide kind of mentality,” says Hays. As the saying goes, a rising tide lifts all boats.

When Covid hit, they didn’t stop. It was just another hurdle and they were used to jumping hurdles. “We were already in that adapt-as-quick-as-you-can mindset,” says Hays. “We’ll figure out how to do because we’ve always had to figure out how to get the doors open or get past this or that. So really it was just ‘give us the new rules and let’s figure out what we can and can’t do and let’s roll with it,’” says Rodgers. “They said everybody had to eat outside. We’re like, ‘alright,’ and we got 60 picnic tables,” says Chef Peanut. They now had an outdoor area in the back.

They kept moving toward the goal of a true, vibrant arts and entertainment district which didn’t exist before. “On Bourbon Street, people can bounce in one place and then to the next and there’s never been anything like that here. And that’s what we have now—just cleaner and safer.” says Hays.

And the “mafia” takes care of business: they hire the Bossier City Police Department, the City Marshall’s office and the Sheriff’s department to patrol the area. “The one thing

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that would prevent the area from turning around, is it not being safe,” says Hays. “We keep it safe and keep it friendly.”

Rodgers notes that the East Bank is Louisiana’s only open container district outside of New Orleans. These business owners encourage people to walk up and down the street and go to any number of places. “Yes, go check it all out. It’s what it’s about,” says Rodgers.

With the success of the 500-block outdoor dining area, they realized they might be onto something, and the idea for Hurricane Alley was born. The four purchased the land behind the restaurants to build Hurricane Alley, a space like no other in the Shreveport-Bossier area. “I think the property owners always had a vision of bringing Bossier back. They saw our effort of going in and redoing some things and I think they trusted us enough to fulfill their vision,” says Hays.

It’s the perfect spot for both locals and tourists alike. “I think it’s the first time in the city that you could do everything right there in the same area. You don’t have to eat dinner one place and drive someplace else for entertainment,” says Rodgers.

“And it’s the first time ever that you really see traffic coming out of the casino, getting out of town traffic start to support local culture. The casinos have been really good partners.

We’re building an area that is a destination not only centered around gambling,” says Hays. “I thought we might be the first step for the business that’s coming from the casinos outward. And, I think as time goes by, you’ll see more and more of all the businesses working together.

Peanut and Hays have since expanded to open Chef’s Table

by BeauxJax a few doors down. This small private event space and catering kitchen has on-site dining and beverage service for birthdays, anniversary parties, rehearsal dinners, corporate meetings, private cocktail hours, network-

Hurricane Alley Hurricane Alley is a block-wide outdoor entertainment space featuring a large patio, green space, and performance stage one the back side of the 500 block businesses. The division between the businesses and Hurricane Alley is almost seamless, with picnic tables on the patio and walkup windows to purchase beverages. There’s a giant television screen, outdoor lighting, outdoor heaters, and even restrooms. Hundreds of people of all ages show up to eat, drink, and be merry, to listen to music or just hang out. Two thousand showed up for a recent concert and more talent is lined up. The four all grew up in the party scene around the same time. “That’s why it’s so atmosphere driven, because we’re doing things that we think are fun,” says Hays.

The atmosphere of the East Bank District attracts all ages— from families with small children and young couples to retirees.

ing events, and small weddings. According to Hays, “we’ve spent the last several years listening to what our guests want, and a private space seems to be high on their list.”

“I don’t think we ever could imagine what it has turned out to be today. So many other things are coming in now—breweries and restaurants and more that we encourage. When we started there was nothing down there. For those coming in now there’s built in traffic already,” says Rodgers.

“In true “mafia” form, we do get a lot of the new businesses that are coming in wanting to meet with us and ask us for advice,” says Hays. “When they come in, we say ‘here’s the playbook.’”

Cheers to the East Bank Mafia — they’re good guys.

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LOCALLYOWNED

special advertising section

The locally owned businesses in Shreveport-Bossier provide a strong foundation and commitment to our community. And each business has its own unique history, values, and goals. Supporting locally owned businesses strengthens our local economy and adds to the diversity of choice in goods and services in our area. Read on to learn more about these businesses.

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LOCALLYOWNED

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ROSE-NEATH FLOWER SHOP Rose-Neath is a family-owned and operated florist in Shreveport, Louisiana, and has been in business for 23 years. We have three licensed florists and three other talented and creative designers and together accumulate over 125 years of experience! The flower shop’s manager, Wanda, has been in the floral business for 58 years.

Whether you wish to send your sympathy to a friend or family member, congratulate an anniversary, birthday, or graduation, or simply wish to brighten someone’s day, Rose-Neath Flower Shop offers flowers for all occasions, seven days a week! They are the only full-service florist open on Sundays, and they offer delivery to all of the Shreveport/Bossier City areas. Roses are received weekly from Ecuador, and other flowers are grown in Florida and California. Visit the flower shop today for beautiful fresh

flowers and the largest silk floral arrangements in the area, plus much more!

“I HAVE BEEN IN THE BUSINESS 58 YEARS. I ENJOY MAKING PEOPLE SMILE WITH CHEERFUL FLOWERS. I AM HERE TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR THE CUSTOMERS TO SELECT JUST THE RIGHT THING TO MAKE PEOPLE SMILE.” - Wanda Hendricks

2529 SOUTHSIDE DRIVE SHREVEPORT, LA 71118 | 318-687-2200 | WWW.ROSE-NEATHFLOWERSHOP.COM SBMAG.NET

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LOCALLYOWNED

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Larry J. Hawkins – Cemeterian, Funeral Director, and Manager

ROSE-NEATH CEMETERY “Since 1932, Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Homes, Crematorium and Cemeteries, Inc. have been serving northwest Louisiana families during the most difficult of times.” — Margaret Shehee, President, Rose-Neath Funeral Homes.

Pre-planning is the greatest act of love that you can do for your spouse and children. It allows your family the opportunity to grieve on the worst day of their life when there has been a death in the family instead of having to be at the cemetery looking for a suitable burial type and site. It benefits both you and your loved ones since you get to choose what you want. You will work with a Professional Cemeterian who will discuss your many options and show you the different aboveground Entombment and inground interments. Pre-plan purchase options are available at affordable and reasonable prices that you will be comfortable with, and the price is locked in. This loving act from you should remove the stress from your loved ones who may otherwise be rushed into choosing a cemetery, type of final disposition, and a burial site shortly after the passing, where it is too easy for them to emotionally overspend and not know your wishes.

There are several choices at Rose-Neath Cemetery, and many more are coming in the near future. We currently offer inground interments in our beautiful, manicured gardens.

People have the option of above-ground Entombment in a Private Walk-in Mausoleum of one’s choice or a Private Estate (above ground crypt). Offered to families (or individuals) are

breathtaking shrubbery-lined Family Estates that can be used for above-ground or inground final dispositions. Rose-Neath Cemetery also has a beautiful Veterans Garden for Veterans and their spouse. For those wishing to be cremated, various Cremation options are available to choose from. In addition to a loved one’s final resting place, Memorialization is also offered by Rose-Neath Cemetery.

At Rose-Neath and Round Grove Cemeteries, we treat people like family. We listen to them, their concerns, needs, desires, and dreams and deliver without high-pressure tactics and at their pace. Our cemeteries take pride in being the most beautiful park-like cemeteries in the ARK-LA-TEX. Rose-Neath Cemetery was once a pecan orchard, keeping many features today from back then. Well-maintained gardens with extra attention given to detail give our families a place to visit with pride and a feeling of peace and tranquility. For what Rose-Neath and Round Grove Cemeteries offer, it is said that they are also the most reasonable-priced cemetery in the ARK-LA-TEX. These are new and different times that we live in. The Cemetery Staff is compassionate and understanding when it comes to people saying goodbye to their loved ones. We encourage the use of wearing masks, social distancing, and hand sanitizing. We have adapted to the new age by offering Zoom Services for those who choose to participate from an offsite location.

5185 SWAN LAKE RD | BOSSIER CITY, LA | 318-746-9344 2869 ROUND GROVE LANE | SHREVEPORT, LA | 318-464-4343 | WWW.ROSE-NEATH.COM

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LOCALLYOWNED

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ROSE-NEATH FUNERAL HOME Since 1932, Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Homes, Crematorium, and Cemeteries, Inc. have been serving northwest Louisiana families during the most difficult of times.

This family-owned company is dedicated to providing the compassionate care families need when a loved one dies.

Funerals bring family and friends together for comfort and support. They reaffirm relationships, celebrate achievements, and give all an opportunity to appreciate the gift of life. Let us be of service to you by contacting any of our twelve locations. Call today for a free, no-obligation consultation to see how a pre-arranged funeral plan through Rose-Neath and Kilpatrick Life Insurance Company can provide peace of mind for your family.

Pre-planning benefits both you and your loved ones. You get to work with a funeral director to plan the funeral that you want without the pressure of time. The funeral that you want at a price that you are comfortable with and the price is locked in. This is much less stressful than your loved ones trying to put together a whole funeral in a few hours, where it is too easy for those in grief to

emotionally overspend, and you get your wishes followed.

Once you have planned out your funeral, you will know the costs and can begin to prepare. This may involve creating a savings account or a pre-need policy. The traditional method of financing a funeral is a life insurance policy designed to pay for the service and other expenses. A Kilpatrick Life agent will be happy to create a policy tailored to meet your needs. By pre-planning your service and how to pay for it, it saves your family money by freeing them from the need to pay for the service with a high-interest rate credit card or having to come up with cash with no notice.

We are privileged to serve families generation after generation. When we help a family get through such a difficult time, we don’t intend for the relationship to end there.

At Rose-Neath, we aren’t just here to earn your business but also to earn your trust.

Since 1932 — Celebrating 90 Years!

“Since 1932, Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Homes, Crematorium and Cemeteries, Inc. have been serving northwest Louisiana families during the most difficult of times.”

— Margaret Shehee, President, Rose-Neath Funeral Homes

www.rose-neath.com 1815 MARSHALL STREET SHREVEPORT, LA 318.222.0348

2201 AIRLINE DRIVE BOSSIER CITY, LA 318.746.2543

2500 SOUTHSIDE DRIVE, SHREVEPORT, LA 318.687.1256 SBMAG.NET

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LOCALLYOWNED

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Stephen Tyer, DDS, Stephen R. Hooper, DDS, & Christopher Hooper, DDS • Proudly Serving Bossier, Shreveport, Barksdale, & Surrounding Areas

HOOPER FAMILY DENTISTRY THE OFFICES WITH THE RED DOORS. For over 30 years, Hooper Family Dentistry has been serving satisfied customers by providing dental needs in Bossier, Shreveport, Barksdale and surrounding areas. The magic of dentistry comes alive in the attractive smiling faces of so many satisfied customers. In this high-quality, family-friendly, peaceful atmosphere, three experienced dentists listen carefully to their patients’ concerns and desires ensuring them of an exceptional dental experience.

To them, quality is more important than quantity, and each dentist is committed to giving their patients the very best dental care possible in the most comfortable environment possible.

HOOPER FAMILY DENTISTRY TREATS PATIENTS LIKE FAMILY AND WITH THE UTMOST RESPECT. YOU WILL BE KNOWN BY YOUR NAME, NOT A NUMBER. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Philippians 4:13

5148 Airline Drive, Bossier City, LA | 318.742.2272 | 1613 Jimmie Davis Hwy Suite 1, Bossier City, LA | 318.752.3939 www.hooperfamilydentistry.com

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LOCALLYOWNED

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2022 TRENDS IN

DENTISTRY Trends in dentistry have rapidly changed just within the last few years. With technological advancements and the new “norms” of personal health due to the Coronavirus pandemic of 2020, the medical and dental fields have had to adapt and change accordingly. A couple of the technological advancements that we currently use in our practices, treatment specific, are that of laser dentistry and digital impressions, in office CAD/ CAM milling of crowns, bridges, splints, etc. Lasers can accomplish a wide variety of tasks in surgical dentistry. Personally, I use a laser almost daily in my practice to gather precision accuracy via impression of crown and bridge margins by troughing small amounts of gum tissue around the preparations so that the impression material can flow “under” the margin and show the lab the perfect location of where the new crown or bridge will meet the tooth.

Less routine procedures I may perform are excisions of pathologies, such as tumors on the tongue, gum tissues, or cheeks; releasing a tethered tongue or lip to promote proper speech as well as many other reasons, also known as tongue and lip ties; and finally desensitizing a tooth where a patient may have “gum line sensitivity” due to recession of the gum tissue, exposing the more porous and sensitive portion of the whole tooth, the roots. Lasers come in a very large variety of shapes, sizes, and method of function; however, if you were to see one in a dental practice it will most likely be a diode laser, although the other varieties can serve the same purpose, do more (e.g., tattoo removal, etc.), and do it a lot faster than a diode.

milling unit for design and construction of a crown, bridge, splint, mouthguard, models, etc. made right before your eyes, or to send to a lab for similar purposes but providing different aspects of dental treatments, one of the most well know being Invisalign orthodontic treatment.

Convenience is what everyone craves when they see a healthcare provider, and some of these technological advancements in patient care and treatment planning can drastically change a person’s perception and mindset of “going to the dentist.”

So, come on in and experience the new standards of dental care!

Be safe and God Bless, — MAJ Christopher G. Hooper, DDS

Another, more recent addition to the practice is the iTero scanner, which is a digital impressing “wand” that can remodel your mouth three-dimensionally on a computer.

Their uses serve a multitude of purposes and offer incredible convenience. Digital technology is instantaneous data transmission wherever we want to send it, and for whatever purpose that may be, whether it’s to send to our in-office 1613 Jimmie Davis Hwy Suite 1, Bossier City | 318.752.3939 www.hooperfamilydentistry.com SBMAG.NET

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LOCALLYOWNED

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BALENTINE AMBULANCE SERVICE Providing quality ambulance service to the ShreveportBossier area for 39 years, Balentine Ambulance Service is the only locally owned and family operated ambulance service in all of Caddo and Bossier parishes. Started in 1983 by the late Ralph D. Balentine, the Balentine Slogan “Caring, it’s a family tradition” is enforced through having multiple generations of family involved daily in the business. Mr. Balentine’s daughter Pam McBeath has taken the reins as president and CEO, along with her husband Carl McBeath and their son Casey, handling the day-today operations ensuring first class quality of care to every patient a Balentine ambulance transports. Providing quality transportation services across town, across the state, or across the region, Balentine’s trained staff of nationally registered and state licensed EMTs and Paramedics can provide basic life support care all the way to replicating ICU care with Paramedics providing Advanced Life Support with on board ventilators and cardiac monitors.

major Mardi Gras parades, you didn’t have to look very far to see one of the iconic white and blue ambulances parked nearby keeping revelers and fans safe.

National EMS week is May 15-21, 2022. Balentine Ambulance urges you to thank these special individuals who day in and day out care for the sick and injured as if they were their own family members.

Balentine Ambulance Service generously gives back to the community by providing services to some of the most high-profile events in the SBC. If you have been to the Independence Bowl, Barksdale Air Show, or any of the 3516 Mansfield Rd, Shreveport, LA 71103 | (318) 222-5358 | www.balentineambulance.com

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LOCALLYOWNED

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CFO PROSOLUTIONS Two of the top QuickBooks ProAdvisors in the ShreveportBossier City area, Missy Fussell of CFO ProSolutions and Jodie Shuff of SCG Accounting Solutions have joined forces to bring you the most experienced team in the region.

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

OUR SERVICES ☑ QuickBooks Products & Solutions As an Advanced QuickBooks Solution Provider we offer preferred pricing on all Intuit QuickBooks products and solutions, including checks. ☑ QuickBooks Services From software selection to specialized training and everything in between, we have your QuickBooks needs covered. ☑ Small Business Accounting Save valuable time and resources with our wide range of small business accounting services. ☑ Payroll Our worry-free payroll solutions enable you to spend more time running your business. ☑ Part-Time CFO Services Gain a better understanding of the financial side of your business with the experienced support of a professional financial manager.

405 Ashley Ridge Blvd. Shreveport, LA 71106 | 318-629-6266 | www.shreveportcfo.com

Intuit and QuickBooks are registered trademarks of Intuit Inc Used with permission under the QuickBooks Solution Provider Program.

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SHOP LOCAL LOCALLYOWNED

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Local businesses create jobs and provide character and vibrancy to the Shreveport-Bossier community.

Local tax bases grow, and taxes help pay for roads, water and sewer services, and police and fire departments, among many other things.

81% of business owners work nights, and 89% work weekends.**

The Northwest Louisiana economy is strengthened, because money is recirculated into the community when businesses and employees purchase from other businesses and service providers.

53.6%

of Louisiana employees work in small businesses.*

Small businesses make up 99.5% of all Louisiana businesses.* 30

*U.S. Small Business MAY 2022Administration | SBMAG.NETOffice of Advocacy 2021 Small Business Profile Louisiana **Fundera Data and Reports, November 11, 2020

LOCALLYOWNED

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Owner Robert Bakowski

COUNTRY MARKET & DELI A SOUTH WEBSTER TRADITION FOR MORE THAN 50 YEARS! Family-owned and locally owned, Country Market & Deli has been a Sibley, Louisiana institution for more than 50 years!

Robert Bakowski, a native of Shreveport, bought Country Market in March 2021.

Country Market & Deli in Sibley is a meat market, deli, convenience store, and gas station, too.

We are proud to carry certified Louisiana products: Boudin from Beaubridge, Laffitte’s Gourmet Cajun pickles and jalapeños, Richards products, and Menard Cajun seasoning, to name a few.

more. If you’re after bass or crappie, come see us for the largest selection of crappie jigs and Bobby Garland plastics in Northwest Louisiana.

Our goal is always to make sure we have what you need. We pride ourselves on our quality, friendliness, and cleanliness.

And unlike at the big chains, when you shop at Country Market, you can be sure the money you spend stays local.

Not only do we promise to do our very best to provide the highest quality products available anywhere, but we are also big supporters of our local schools and community groups, as well as the annual St. Jude’s fundraising efforts.

To us, nothing is more important than friendly, courteous service. Give us a chance to show you. Come in and experience our genuine warmth for yourself!

Our old-fashioned meat market features hand-cut certified Hereford beef, fresh pork, young fryers, and more. We carry an incredible inventory and can usually special order any unusual requests.

Whether it’s lunch or supper, let us do the cooking. Our deli sandwiches are made right in front of you using freshly sliced, premium deli meats. And our barbecue meats are second to none, available at the deli or by the pound.

Do you love fishing? We do too! Stop in and pick up the supplies you need for a great trip, from baits, lures, rods, reels, lines, hooks, crappie jigs, jig heads, soft plastics, weights, and

Country Market | 503 S Main Street | Sibley, LA | SBMAG.NET

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LOCALLYOWNED

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DOWN HOME MEATS FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1982

“OLD SCHOOL SAUSAGE DONE RIGHT”

Down Home Meats has been serving the good folks of Stonewall, Louisiana and surrounding areas for over 36 years. We’re dedicated to creating sausage the way it was made 100 years ago, focusing on using 4 main ingredients and natural casings to give you the very best, old school smoke flavored sausage.

Top Selling Sausage Smoked to Perfection Whether you’re grilling outdoors, looking for some hearty and flavorful sausages for breakfast, or preparing a gumbo platter, Down Home Meats has the perfect sausage for all occasions.

Featured in The Food Network’s BBQ America, highlighted in the Houston Live Stock and Rodeo Show World Championship Cook-Off and known as the top selling sausage item in all of your favorite grocery stores. We can be found within a 250-mile radius of Stonewall, LA. Down Home Meats Inc | 5236 State Hwy 3276, Stonewall, LA, USA | 318-925-6915

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LOCALLYOWNED

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GLASS SERVICES Glass Services began serving northwest Louisiana 20 years ago when the first location opened in Bossier City and now maintains locations in Shreveport and Mansfield. Charlie Pippin moved to Shreveport 15 years ago and took over the business from Mike Rose when he retired. Pippin welcomes you to stop by Glass Services, give him a call or visit the website if you need glass for your vehicle, home or business.

auto glass technicians are certified by the Auto Glass Safety Council.

Windshield glass repair and replacement, calibration of camera systems that control Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems, shower glass, windows and mirrors for your home, and commercial glazing are just some of the specialized services offered by Glass Services. With its three locations, they offer mobile service as well as 24-hour emergency service, seven days a week. Glass Services offers highquality glass products and services and utilizes trained technicians for installations and repairs. On average, their technicians have over 15 years of experience, and many of the employees have over 30 years in the business. All

Pippin and his team appreciate the support of their customers in the past and they look forward to serving the people of northwest Louisiana for many years to come.

1118 E. Bert Kouns Shreveport, LA 318.524.9980

If you want to know how Glass Services treats their customers, read testimonials on their website or Facebook page from both residential and commercial clients. Fast, competent, amazing, and even awesome, are some of the words repeated along with “highly recommend!”

2803 E. Texas St. Bossier City, LA 318.747.6700

1009-A Polk St. Mansfield, LA 318.872.0017

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Proud to be the Boutique F O R

M I S S

T E E N

L O U I S I A N A ,

A I N S L E Y

R O S S .

OWNERS TAYLOR MAUGHON AND PATTI MAUGHON

FORMALS 811 BENTON RD • BOSSIER CITY • 318.584.7048 6535 YOUREE DR #303 • SHREVEPORT • 318.754.4475

SLOANSFORMALS.COM

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LOCALLYOWNED

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A TASTER’S CHOICE CATERING

Since 1996 A Taster’s Choice Catering’s mission has been to cook quality and customer satisfaction into every recipe. From feeding thousands of your friends at the latest fundraiser to feeding your family after a day at the ballpark, A Taster’s Choice is truly the “Swiss Army Knife” for your culinary needs. Family style customer service paired with an eclectic selection of delectable dishes is how A Taster’s Choice Catering earned SB Magazine’s Favorite Catering Company award for 2022.

The reputation of A Taster’s Choice for made from scratch, home cooked, stick-to-your-ribs style food is well established but owner Dona Tyndall recognized a need in the community for something else. “People would tell me at events ‘I wish we could eat like this all the time!’ so I thought, ‘why shouldn’t they?’” In 2018, ATCC’s Take & Bake line was launched. “We have single servings to family size selections, we have casseroles, salads, sides, desserts, and our signature Tom’s Famous Brisket - all in the cooler

waiting for you. Why settle for fast food or wait at a restaurant when we have home cooking you can take home?”

But the choices at A Taster’s Choice don’t stop there. “Many of our customers have medical issues, special diets, or are just trying to drop a few pounds. The last two years have really brought home the importance of healthy eating, but I believe you don’t have to sacrifice quality and taste to do it.” Enter A Taster’s Choice LCL (Low Carb Life) and Keto selections. “We have many of our most popular dishes in low carb versions, as well as some new ones you have to taste to believe. The LCL Chicken Salad is my favorite. Try it and you won’t believe how amazing eating healthy tastes!”

Hungry? Come see Dona at A Taster’s Choice!

9216 Linwood Ave, Shreveport, LA 71106 | (318) 688-5977 | www.atasterschoice.com

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Vice President Chalaine McCraw

LOCALLYOWNED

President Betty Carroll

TRI-STATE OPTICAL Established in 1950, Tri-State Optical has been in the Shreveport area for 72 years. The founder, Henry Peyton Cox, originally opened the business on the third floor of the Levy Building which is now the Petroleum Tower in downtown Shreveport. Two years later he relocated Tri-State Optical to its current location, 1014 Creswell Ave. Mr. Cox’s initial capital investment was $9,000 and after two years in business, he was able to hire a local contractor, L.D. Elder, and architect, W.L. Weigle, to build the current location for $21,000.

the few locally owned female manufacturing companies in the area, Tri-State Optical is also still family-owned and operated. Betty Carroll Cox, Mr. Cox’s daughter, and Chalaine McCraw, his granddaughter, employ 5 highly skilled optical technicians. After taking a typing class in high school, Betty Carroll began doing clerical work at Tri-State at the age of 14. Chalaine began working in the business at age 16.

As a small business with 150 years of combined optical experience, Tri-State Optical provides problem-solving solutions for Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, and Opticians.

Taking care to build close relationships with their customers, Tri-State is able to listen to their customer’s concerns and provide customized ideas - not “one size fits all.” They provide quality products and fast turnaround on orders, even on complicated prescriptions.

Tri-State Optical is a full-service wholesale optical laboratory that serves the Shreveport-Bossier City area, North Louisiana, South Arkansas, and East Texas. Currently one of

1014 Creswell | Shreveport, LA 71101 | 318-425-7432 | www.tri-stateoptical.com SBMAG.NET

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LOCALLYOWNED

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TRI-STATE MOBILE Tri-State Mobile Parking Lot Maintenance and Services has exceeded customer expectations in Louisiana, Arkansas, Texas, and Mississippi for 25 years, and the company is growing each year. Tri-State Mobile began as a commercial power washing company and, over the years, has added new services to better meet their customer’s many needs until they have become what they are today - the premier local company for all your commercial construction, remodeling, and parking lot needs. In fact, they have gotten so busy lately that you have no doubt seen one of their trucks around town with their logo and wondered exactly what they do!

Tri-State Mobile offers: • • • • • •

New commercial construction or remodeling services Asphalt - new lay, overlay, patching, crack filling, and seal coating Concrete - new pour, repair, expansion joint repair, and raising Commercial power washing Commercial soft washing & elastomeric roof coating Parking lot striping

Tri-State’s professional teams are highly trained, licensed, and insured and can handle anything- even if you don’t see it listed above, give them a call. Chances are, they know how to get the job done!

1608 Wells Island Road | Shreveport, LA 71107 | www.tristatemobileservice.com | 318-404-1694

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LOCALLYOWNED

special advertising section

JOLIE BLONDE GIFTS Jamie Kochakian always dreamed of owning a gift shop. It all started when Novus Glass opened its 2nd location in the Wallace Lake area. Jamie realized this would be the perfect location for a gift shop because there were no stores on that side of town. Finally, her dream became a reality when they opened Jolie Blonde Gifts two years ago.

Since they opened their doors, Jamie has learned that things are never the same day to day--that’s what makes it so much fun! Building relationships with customers and developing new friendships every day by helping them find the perfect gift or helping them decorate gives Jamie great joy.

At Jolie Blonde Gifts, you can find the perfect gift for anyone, including children of all ages and men. Whether you’re a jewelry lover, gift-giver, or décor enthusiast, Jolie Blonde Gifts is the place for you. For Father’s Day, we have gifts for every dad in your life: beverage life vests, rechargeable lighters, grill seasoning, crazy socks, and more! Whatever you’re shopping for, at Jolie Blonde, you will find unique Louisiana gifts that you will love and treasure!

9210 Wallace Lake Rd | 318.562.3229 | jolieblondegifts.net

NOVUS GLASS REPAIR Tim and Jamie Kochakian, owners of Novus Glass, know how stressful windshield damage can be on your lifestyle. For over 17 years, they have been making things easier for you and your family. When you need a windshield replacement, Novus Glass can come to you, or you can go to them.

They specialize in windshield repair for auto, heavy equipment, motorhomes, and big trucks. They also do automotive tint, residential tint, and state inspection stickers. Novus Glass will work with all insurance companies for individuals and fleet management companies. With two convenient locations, give Novus Glass a call and let them handle the hassle!

9210 Wallace Lake and 6161 Financial Plaza | Shreveport, Louisiana | 318.603.9122 SBMAG.NET

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LOCALLYOWNED

special advertising section

BOBBY L . GREENE PLUMBING Bobby L. Greene Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. is the name you can trust for all of your plumbing needs in the Shreveport/Bossier and surrounding areas.

The Greene Team can handle your toilet repairs, leak detection, water heater replacement or a complete bathroom and kitchen remodel. Big or small, residential, or commercial, they do it all and they do it right. Their expert plumbers keep up with the latest technology in plumbing, offering Sewer Lining, Trenchless Sewer Repairs and more.

Bobby L. Greene Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. is a family owned and operated business.

Bobby and his wife, Doris, started out with one truck, a card table and an old typewriter!

Together they built their reputation and public demand helped them grow to several employees and trucks.

Today Greene Plumbing is in good hands with son Ricky and grandson’s Justin and Michael sharing daily responsibilities. Beginning at a very early age, they all learned the business from the ground up and each one has earned a Master’s Plumbing License.

They are Backflow Licensed, Boiler Licensed, Louisiana Master Plumbers and Texas Responsible Master Plumbers.

Justin Greene, Ricky Greene, Michael Greene

Bobby L. Greene Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. offers emergency services 24 hours a day, seven days a week! Today and for the past 63 years Bobby L. Greene Plumbing is only a phone call away.

BOBBY L. GREENE

PLUMBING & HEATING CO., INC.

2630 Midway Ave, Shreveport, LA 71108 | (318) 631-0235 | www.greeneplumbing.com | LMP #6481

Family owned £ Fresh Produce and operated £ Home-Cooked Meals since 1970! £ Award Winning Burgers

Hurry to Gullo’ s where the service is friendly and the food is guaranteed delicious!

Mon – Fri 9am - 7pm, Sat 10am - 3pm

Lunch Specials Daily 11am - 3pm

Find us on Facebook

724 East Flournoy Lucas Rd • Shreveport, LA 71115 • 318. 797.0361 40

MAY 2022

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LOCALLYOWNED

special advertising section

Snell's Orthotics and Prosthetics offer the latest in technology with fully customizable products. From hand painted flowers to your favorite sports team, we can customize your prosthesis however you like.

A long-time patient, Connie, customizes her socket to match her interests. When asked about Snell’s, Connie says, “They’re amazing. I’ve been with them about 14 years and anything and everything I want, they work with me to get it. . . . The other thing I love about Snell’s is that they really get how important my art is to me. I’m picky about it and they spend the time it takes to satisfy me.”

1833 Line Avenue | Shreveport | 318-424-4167 211 Hall Street | Monroe | 318-388-3126 1004 Bayou Place | Alexandria | 318-443-6391

TITLE BOXING CLUB – SHREVEPORT Brent Smith - Owner Brent Smith was born and raised in Shreveport, La. Brent is a CE Byrd, Grambling State, and LSU Shreveport Alumni. As a former athlete, Brent has always loved fitness and known the value of good health. In 2019, Brent visited a boxing class in Texas after a stressful work week and immediately fell in love with the workout and

the sense of community. At that point, he was focused on bringing that same energy and family culture back home to Shreveport. He discovered TITLE Boxing Club and the rest was history. His ultimate goal is to introduce boxing fitness to people of all fitness levels to increase confidence and relieve stress.

FOUNDING MEMBER PROMOTIONS AVAILABLE!

BOOSTED ENERGY � STRESS RELIEF � STRENGTH IN FOCUS & CORE �

EXPERIENCE THE BEST FITNESS BOXING WORKOUT! 1409 East 70th St., Ste 125, Shreveport, LA 318-545-1069 • shreveport@titleboxingclub.com www.titleboxingclub.com

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LOCALLYOWNED

special advertising section

ADMIRE. AFFIRM. ADORE.

Your business is personal to us.

3730 YOUREE DRIVE • AVALONHAIRSALON.NET

Are you planning on expanding your business? Citizens Bank and Trust Company can help you find the perfect lending solution.

"AVALON HAIR SALON STARTED WITH A DREAM AND A VISION 24 YEARS AGO TO PROVIDE BEAUTIFUL HAIR & MAKEUP FOR THE COMMUNITY OF SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER… WE’RE NESTLED CONVENIENTLY FOR THE PORT CITY IN THE BROADMOOR NEIGHBORHOOD. SHOP OUR RETAIL STORE FOR YOUR REDKEN, MIRABELLA & BRAZILIAN PRODUCTS FOR ALL YOUR BEAUTY NEEDS! THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING LOCAL!" GRACE ANNE BLAKE – 318-861-HAIR

318-629-3217 www.cbtbankco.com STEVE FULCO

Sr. Vice President / Lender 318.629.3217 • NMLS #1850736 6330 Youree Drive Shreveport, LA 71105

A family friendly place to enjoy good food and good times since 1936.

The World Famous

Shrimp Buster!

1833 PIERRE AVE w w w. h e r b y k s . n e t

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SHREVEPORT, LA |

(318) 424-2724

s e t a B t t o c S

MAS, President Master Advertising Specialist

(318) 221-3596

www.lambandassociates.com

LOCALLYOWNED

special advertising section

Authentic Mexican Meals Made With Fresh Ingredients Locally owned and operated, Sooter’s offers in-home or outbound personal chef services from meal planning, meal prep, and event planning.

S A L S A V E R D E • R E M O U L A D E • S I G N AT U R E S A L S A • M A R I N A R A

TACO WARS 2022 WINNER BEST SALSA!

sootersbespokecuisine@gmail.com

318.579.0633

318.754.4581 www.ramirezmexicanrestaurant.com

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318-469-2044

Coverage includes a description of the wedding and reception, your wedding dress, your list of vendors, and full color or black and white photos.

Printed in the issue of your choice and posted online.

Share your Big Day!

CALL 318 . 221 . 7264 O R EM AIL K EYLE @ SB M AG . NET FO R PR ICES

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2022

43

SB PROFILE

TUREAZA

LOPEZ

B

The Baker’s Path

aking is many things to Tureaza Lopez.

Baking is a science. “Baking takes components to make it arise to what it’s supposed to be. If it lacks one of those components, it won’t be the product you wanted. But it’s a fun science, and it’s not complex.”

Baking is art. “I like to compare it to being a painter,” she said. “I am not a painter. But they can visualize something, and they can paint it. I can paint a taste in a product without knowing if it’s going to taste good or not. It’s kind of like when you paint a picture. You just know.”

“Baking is a lot different than cooking,” she said. “I am a great chef, but my passion is in baking.”

Lopez fondly recalls baking oatmeal cookies as a girl growing up in California. But she wasn’t so sure the kitchen was where she wanted to be when she chose the United States Air Force as part of her life’s path.

“When I joined the military and I found out I was going to be a chef, I put my head down on the desk and I cried,” she said. “I didn’t join the military to work at Denny’s. In the end, God showed me where I was supposed to be.” She served more than 20 years in the military.

While overseas, Lopez discovered another pursuit outside the kitchen. “I was stationed in Germany and was going through a personal trauma,” she said. “I wanted something to focus on. One of my old friends was in the fitness industry. She had started competing.

She said, ‘Tess, you should really do this.’ So Tess began to compete.

It was during that part of her journey she learned something more about herself.

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BY SCOTT ANDERSON

“I like goals. If I want something, I want it. But at the end of it, once I accomplish it, I don’t carry on with it. If I put a goal out there, the goal was the great thing about it for me.” She stopped competing, but she discovered a new passion — creating a cupcake that was balanced for carbs, fats and proteins but still tasted like a cupcake.

“I was literally at the gym pushing cupcakes in people’s faces and saying, ‘Try this. Does this taste like a cupcake?’ I was trying to create something that tasted like the traditional thing,” she said. But when that path proved rocky, a revelation led her to a new fork in her road.

“In trying to sell to the body-building community, even though I knew and trusted my product, I wasn’t able to sell the trust,” she said. “I sat there and said, ‘Why am I selling to less than 1 percent of this nation when I should be selling to the 99.9 percent of this nation that just wants to have a healthy dessert that tastes like the real thing?’” She launched Prep Cakes to serve those who were struggling to meet their health and weight-loss goals.

“People rely a lot on diets,” Lopez said. “I can support that. Some people need that strict thing to follow. The problem is it’s not a lifestyle. Prep Cakes is a lifestyle. It allows you to have your cake and eat it too. You can pick and choose.”

The concept took off. So much so that many of the people who enjoyed her healthy take on traditional sweet treats encouraged her to take another big step in 2018. “I had a lot of customers who said I should audition for ‘Shark Tank,’ she said. “Because my customers wanted me to, I did.” She traveled to Dallas for the audition. It was a long, arduous nine-hour day, she recalled. About 48 hours later,

she came upon another fork in her road when she got an email saying she had been accepted to go on the show. “I thought and prayed about it, and I knew in my heart the time wasn’t right,” she said.

“That wasn’t where I was supposed to be. So, I declined the offer.”

She knew she had more to learn. “People jump into business without understanding business,” she said. “Because you have a great idea and concept, or even a skill, doesn’t mean you know you can run a business. God will put you in positions to lead, to understand the financials, to build your team.” One of those positions Lopez was put in was director of the incubator kitchen at Cohab in downtown Shreveport.

She also launched the MS Kick kitchen with Southern University.

She spent about three years with those two projects, helping others launch their food businesses.

“The time in Cohab definitely helped,” she said. “Going in there and turning that back into an incubator kitchen.” That’s also when she met Jim Malsch, who became a mentor to her in her business. “Usually when you meet people who are coming with a business idea, you can tell pretty quick if they’ve got it or not,” Malsch said. “Tess definitely had the attitude and passion. She has incredible drive. She just needed a little guidance and the confidence.”

In both cases she knew it was time for her path to veer again. “I had to leave Cohab because at that point I was consuming space when I was beyond it. That wasn’t fair for new entrepreneurs. I left MS Kick because I realized I was focusing on so many other people’s businesses and not my own. I felt in my heart that God kept my business afloat even though I wasn’t in it. When I came back, it flourished. That was a sign to me. I put my heart and soul into my business, and it’s been great.”

While the business has flourished, Lopez refuses to rest on her laurels. She is putting her marketing background to work on rebranding her “guiltless desserts.” “I don’t like the word ‘guiltless.’ Just because you have diabetes doesn’t mean there’s something wrong

9111 LINWOOD AVE, SHREVEPORT, LA • (318) 688-0961

with you,” she said. “Guiltless is a negative. I don’t like that. It’s ‘food that fits your lifestyle.’

“Ultimately, I want to be a household name for ‘you can have your cake and eat it too.’ It doesn’t have to be bad. I have wholesalers ask, ‘Do you make guilty cakes?’ Why do I need to? If my stuff tastes like the real thing, why do you need the sugar in it. It’s a rewiring of the brain that desserts don’t have to be a bad thing.”

When Lopez retired from the military at Barksdale Air Force base, she didn’t just make Shreveport and Bossier City her customer base.

She made it her home, where she has raised her two children. “I am a realist,” she said. “Money comes and money goes. I don’t worry about that stuff. My greatest success is my children—them finding their success would be my greatest success.”

She is also a proud Shreveport resident who actively campaigns against things like blight in the Highland neighborhood. “I believe in this community,” she said. “I am not going to sit by and watch our community in turmoil.”

Lopez has found community, even among the city’s bakeries, and she knows she isn’t walking this journey alone. “Our bakery community is family-centric,” Lopez said. “There is no competing. I love that. I can go to Lilah’s, and they give me boxes. The Lowders brought me flowers when I opened. Julie Anne’s recommends people to my bakery when they have an allergy. That’s how close we all are.”

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

WWW.GARDENPARKNURSINGANDREHAB.COM

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SB PARENTING

Healthy

Summer Eating

BY URSULA BRANTLEY

S

ummertime is right around the corner, and we all know what that means! For children and young people, it’s “School’s Out” like Alice Cooper.

For parents, it’s trying to keep kids productive and active while making sure there are plenty of kid approved, healthy food options around to be devoured.

HEALTHY HABITS Healthy eating habits are fundamental to the physical and mental development of children and adolescents. It sets them up for success as they mature into adults. Eating right doesn’t always have to be expensive or less than delicious. It’s our job as parents to introduce children to quality foods in a way that they’ll embrace. Parents can begin introducing tasty healthy snacks and meals to their families and in no time those habits of healthy eating will be second nature.

RIGHT FOODS, RIGHT PORTIONS Nutritious eating is all about eating the right foods in the right portions. A growing child’s diet should be portioned based on their age group and activity level. The CDC recommends that people aged 2 and older follow a healthy

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eating pattern that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fat-free and low-fat dairy products, a variety of protein foods, and oils while limiting calories from saturated and trans fats, sugars, and sodium.

According to the Harvard School of Public Health, fill half of the plate with colorful vegetables and fruits (and choose them as snacks), and split the other half between whole grains and healthy proteins.”

A SWIM SCHOOL DESIGNED FOR LEARNING TEACHING YOUR CHILD THE BASICS OF SWIMMING FROM JUST $22/LESSON HEALTHY REPLACEMENTS Kids seem to always want to eat! During the summer, more free time means more munch time. Summer can be a great time to try making healthy versions of children’s favorite meals—a good start to helping children accept healthy eating. For example, for burgers, try using turkey meat on wheat buns instead of ground beef on white buns.

Replacing pizza crust with cauliflower crust on pizza will make a world of difference. When they’re craving chicken nuggets, try cut up chicken bites with breadcrumbs cooked in an air fryer instead of fried in fatty grease.

PREPARE AHEAD A clever way to make sure that kids choose health over convenience is to combine the two. Preplanned meals and snacks are a game changer once you get the hang of it. Meal planning doesn’t have to be time consuming or overwhelming. For example, talk with kids about some delicious, quick meal options they might like and then let them assist in preparing them with you. For snacks, parents can cut up strawberries or portion out grapes in small containers.

Buying easy to peel clementines or cutting up orange slices can motivate kids to eat those instead of chips. Parents can also try making cost efficient and healthy snacks of crackers, cheese, nuts, and fruit.

PRE-BOOK LESSONS FOR THE END OF MAY THRU AUGUST NOW!

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

SHREVEPORT@JUMPSWIMSCHOOLS.COM WWW.JUMPSWIMSCHOOLS.COM

VISIT A FARMERS MARKET Parents may also introduce their families to beneficial eating by making the shopping an adventure. Planning an outing to a farmers market can be a fun, educational escapade for the whole family. Both Shreveport and Bossier have a market! Take the opportunity to meet the growers of the produce and even ask them questions about the process from planting to purchase. A farmers market helps kids develop an appreciation for the foods they eat, while learning where the food came from. Parents and kids can purchase many go-to fruits and vegetables like apples, melons, tomatoes, carrots, and onions. They can also acquire fresh foods like squash, zucchini, eggplant, eggs, beans, and herbs to make family friendly meals and snacks or even revamp those food choices they love.

Though healthy eating may present some hurdles, the benefits are vast. All it takes is some structure, discipline, and the right tips to get and keep families on the healthy lifestyle bandwagon.

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SB PETS

JUNE IS

ADOPT-A-CAT MONTH

J

une brings beautiful flowers, delicious fruits and vegetables, sunny skies, school-free days…and kittens! It’s AdoptA-Cat Month, and with “kitten season” upon us, we are encouraged to remember our furry feline friends when considering a new pet. The end of spring is always one of the busiest times of the year for animal shelters due to the increase of kitten litters. Adopt-A-Cat Month has been celebrated by animal lovers every June for the past 45 years. The month helps promote cat adoptions across the U.S. and highlights the importance of cat spaying and neutering. So, what better time than right meow to welcome a new fuzzy feline furball into your home?

ADOPT A CAT AND SAVE A CAT’S LIFE The obvious reason for adopting a cat is that they are just so crazy cute and fabulously adorable! However, did you know that thousands and thousands of kittens are born each spring during “kitten season,” adding to the over 3 million cats already waiting in shelters to be adopted? Unfortunately, these shelters often have limited funding and space, making it very difficult to care for such a large influx of animals. The sad truth is that more than 70% of sheltered animals are eventually euthanized. But even sadder than that is that close to 80% of cats and dogs euthanized in shelters are healthy or have treatable conditions.

ADOPT A CAT AND IMPROVE YOUR LIFE Cats make for purrfect companions. Cats tend to be indepen-

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BY HAILEY LAWSON

dent and low-maintenance. They don’t have to be walked, and your neighbors won’t have a reason to complain about any boisterous barking. But more importantly, having a feline friend comes with bonus health benefits for you and your family. That peaceful purring is therapeutic! Being around cats can: 🐈🐈🐈🐈 Lower your risk of heart disease and strokes. Cats provide calming energy, making you less prone to heart attacks and strokes. 🐈🐈🐈🐈 The purring power of a cat is believed to help with infections, swelling and pain, muscle growth and repair, tendon repair, and joint mobility. 🐈🐈🐈🐈 Relieve stress and anxiety. A cat can improve your sense of happiness and general well-being by helping you cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness.

READY TO ADOPT A CAT? Right meow is the purrfect time to bring that new feline home!

By adopting a cat, you’ll support your local animal shelter and help reduce stray cats in your area. If you can’t adopt a cat permanently, consider fostering. Contact your local shelter or cat rescue group to see how you can become a foster parent. Lastly, you can always help by donating money or cat-related items to your local shelter or rescue. Spread the word, June is Adopt-A-Cat month!

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SB HOME FEATURE

A GORGEOUS

South Highlands REMODEL

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Step inside to see how this his transitionalstyle home in South Highlands boasts modern elegance with traditional charm.

S

BY ADAM BAILEY

hreveport. Face it—we all love a Cinderella story, especially when it's something as simple and inspiring as a home renovation. We all know home renovations can be tough, stressful, and downright unpleasant. So, when the homeowners decided to remodel this home in Shreveport’s South Highlands neighborhood, they knew they needed to go big. And so they did. The goal was to meld classic taste with modern twists to enliven the space.

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Remodeled in 2013 by Rand Knicely Construction, this four-bedroom-four-bath residence has a new master suite, outdoor porch, and upgraded kitchen. Yes, it’s traditional, but in a kind and formal style. Simpler details were employed to keep the home from feeling heavy and too formal. The home is fresh and reflects a youthfulness for its inhabitants; therefore, the main color in the home is white—with white walls, white textures, and white cabinetry. The finished design emits a traditional, homey feel, while the neutral colors and symmetrical lines add a modern edge.

The floor is one of the many minimalistic, yet striking elements throughout this house—helping create its traditional look. There are elements of color dotted throughout the house, creating an unexpected pop of light in contrast to the stained floor.

And while it looks simple at first, every layer of this home inspires a different feel. Blending updated elements, the traditional (yet transitional) style is created by balancing white, modern color palettes with natural wooden textures.

The aim was to create a space full of dimension without losing any traditional details along the way. The fun thing about the design is there’s no rules, so to speak. When it comes to proportion and

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sizes, there is the perfect mix of different elements of design. The interior pops with comfort and unique furnishings, thanks to inventive design work seeking a cheerful vibe with eclectic touches at every turn.

Finally, home doesn’t look “cookie-cutter” in any way.

Rather, every room offers a bit of a surprise—delivering interesting decor that engages everyone who sets foot in the space. And while designers brought in a little bit of a funky flair, there’s also a lot of nostalgia. Step inside to see for yourself.

Clean Slates This bright, white kitchen doesn’t lack any character. Cool whites and a refined, modern backsplash greet you as you enter this place, while the grey countertops pull your eyes forward. The hood serves as a focal point of the kitchen with its contrasting wood tone against the walls, and grey countertop bring in a touch of color and texture. There is ample storage for serving dishes and stemware, and there is just enough space for a few added features—like a wine

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refrigerator. Even the hardware has a vintage feel and gives the kitchen a seamless look.

A dining table sits against the other end of the kitchen, adding a cozy, yet practical element to the monochromatic feel of the space.

It offers a more casual, inviting spot for everyday family meals.

Hidden Outdoor Details The outdoor room is full of distinctive pieces and was built to be an entertaining area. The longer you look, the more detail you’ll see. Layering design elements, unique accessories and textures were key in creating dimension and depth and is outfitted with a mix of furniture styles.

The large brick fireplace creates a focal point, adds a heat source, and visually links the porch to the home. It has a lighthearted and celebratory feel. The sofa and chairs create the perfect spot for lounging around the fireplace, making this space usable yearround. The furniture is made with weather-resistant materials.

Furnishings with an interior influence—the rug, sofa, and wall mounted television—all look great in this space. The fireplace is flanked with handy storage for stacked wood. The distinctive, yet different chairs help mix SBMAG.NET

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some modern elements with traditional and create a relaxed, but inspiring, vibe.

Making a Fun Statement The bedrooms upstairs are perfect for lounging, playing, and, of course, sleeping. The soaring ceiling make these bedroom spaces rife with possibilities. Natural light pours into these rooms, highlighting their bright neutral colors, high vaulted ceilings, and minimal decor. And although the color scheme is simple, the wood-panel ceiling makes a statement with its abstract design, while the window treatments translate the sun perfectly into each room.

Eclectic Furnishings The public spaces are furnished with an eclectic mix of pieces. A shared affinity for natural fibers and textural elements injects organic warmth and interest into the decor. And while the large-scale architectural overhaul could only have been envisioned by a professional, the interior decorating was done in close cooperation with the homeowners, whose aesthetic and existing possessions drove the direction of the project.

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Mental Health deserves

our attention more than ever.

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BY DR. MICHELLE YETMAN

ach year, millions of Americans face the reality of living with some form of a mental health condition.

They are our friends, our family members, and our co-workers. One in four adult Americans have a diagnosed mental health condition. Many of these individuals get up every day and make meaningful contributions to society, all while privately struggling with their own issues. Since May is designated as Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s use this opportunity to educate ourselves on how we can positively protect our own mental health, along with that of our children and others.

Mental health challenges are common and often a normal reaction to life stressors. It is important to remember that it is okay to ask for help in life. When life becomes overwhelming, it is important to know that there are valuable resources that are available that can help an individual manage and cope. We should all be vigilant about protecting our mental health, just as we try to stay in the best physical shape possible. Managing stress, maintaining social contacts, and engaging in purposeful tasks all help to bring balance to our lives.

First and foremost, we must make a concerted effort to eliminate the stigma associated with mental health struggles so more people will seek the help they need without fear of being negatively labeled. Individuals’ suffering with mental health should not be treated any differently than those diagnosed with other diseases.

1.

Talk about your feelings. Do not let negative emotions build up. Talking things out can often resolve issues. If you do not have family or friends who are willing to listen, therapy can be a valuable way to help process things and learn more about yourself. You can also develop effective coping skills.

2.

Keep active. Regular exercise has been shown to be a wonderful stress reliever. It can improve concentration, mood, and sleep. In addition to the physical benefits of exercise, the mental health benefits are many.

3.

Eat well. You are what you eat! A healthy diet can impact mood and improve cognitive functioning.

4.

Drink sensibly. Alcohol is a depressant. Drinking to change our mood can make bad things seem worse. Alcohol or drugs are never effective coping strategies. When the substances wear off, you will feel worse. Never use alcohol or substances to manage difficult emotions.

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

Over the course of your life, mental health problems will likely impact your thinking, mood, and behavior. Many factors contribute to mental health problems, including: • • •

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Biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry Life experiences, such as trauma or abuse Family history of mental health problems MAY 2022

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It is important to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. Below are simple, practical suggestions to help promote mental well-being:

5. Keep in touch. Loneliness is a toxic emotion. It is essential for people to maintain meaningful relationships throughout their lifespan.

Calling or texting someone to let them know you are thinking of them will brighten someone’s day and is a good thing for your mental health.

6. Ask for help. Life can be hard. No one is superhuman and there is no shame in asking for help. Therapists and doctors specialize in treating individuals who are having mental health challenges. If you ever feel overwhelmed, reach out. Things can get better, but you might need to ask for some help first.

7. Do something you’re good at or what you love. What did you do for fun as a child? What activities can you lose yourself in? What did you love doing in the past? People who had hobbies faired better during the pandemic. Enjoying yourself

can help you beat stress. Work to find a group of people who also enjoy the same hobby.

8. Finally, accept who you are.

No one is perfect. Acknowledging your weaknesses and being proud of your strengths is part of being a mature adult.

Growth is a lifelong process.

Continue to discuss what you like about you.

EARLY WARNING SIGNS Ƚ Ƚ Ƚ Ƚ Ƚ Ƚ Ƚ Ƚ Ƚ Ƚ Ƚ Ƚ

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.

Ƚ Ƚ

Eating or sleeping too much or too little Pulling away from people and activities Having low or no energy Feeling numb or like nothing matters Having unexplained aches and pains Feeling helpless or hopeless Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried, or scared Yelling or fighting with family and friends Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships Having persistent thoughts and memories you can't get out of your head Hearing voices or believing things that are not true Thinking of harming yourself or others Inability to perform daily tasks: taking care of your kids, getting to work/school

If you or someone you care about feels overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or like you want to harm yourself or others - Call 911. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Helpline 800-985-5990. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-8255 or text MHFA to 741741.

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SB ART & CULTURE

THE CARREFOUR COLLABORATIVE MUSIC PROJECT

BY SEVA MAY

“Music is the language of the spirit. It opens the secret of life bringing peace, abolishing strife.” — Kahlil Gibran

T

here we were. All of us were stuck in a limbo state with government ordered mandates in place due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It seemed as though everything closed: schools, restaurants, grocery stores. Unless you were considered essential you were trapped with nowhere to go.

Among the hardest hit were the arts organizations. Museums, theatres, music halls – all went dark and quiet. Quiet. What a horrible sound “quiet” makes. It was during this period of stress and anxiety that two local musicians knew that keeping music alive would not only ease our minds during these troubled times but would “strengthen an awareness of our shared humanity.” With the birth of the Carrefour Collaborative Music Project (CCMP), inspired by Robert Cruz and Brett Andrews, a series of on-line music

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concerts were planned. The first one was ready to launch when, four days prior to the event, a “shelter in place” order came down and so did the concert.

However, this did not deter these musicians.

They kept working, laying the groundwork for a Facebook livestream concert. Their follow up was a series of Beethoven’s complete works for cello and piano; a cabaret featuring performers associated with local theatre companies; and a program of piano quartets. The response from the community was strong enough to re-form Carrefour as a non-profit organization guided by a diverse board of directors.

The Carrefour Collaborative Music Project’s vision is “to be a catalyst in growing a healthy, vibrant, and sustainable artistic ecosystem in Shreveport that has a positive ripple effect throughout the community at large.”

“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.”

— Plato Today, CCMP remains committed to fostering a vibrant and sustainable cultural life in the Shreveport-Bossier City area. By connecting audiences with local artists and providing an inclusive repertoire, the organization has successfully instilled a sense of pride in what we, as a community, can accomplish.

From in person formal concerts to online events to pop-up performances in non-traditional venues, CCMP has the ability to reach every community in our area. With its small ensemble size and huge repertoire, CCMP has the flexibility to go anywhere and entertain everyone.

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Everyone's Falling in Love with

L L A B PICKLEBALL E L PICK

U

BY ADAM BAILEY

nless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you’ve probably heard someone in Shreveport-Bossier raving about the sport pickleball. So, what is the ‘dill’ with pickleball? And why is it appealing to anyone and everyone?

Out of nowhere, pickleball is everywhere. This sneaky, fastpaced mixture of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong has been embraced by celebrities, athletes, and everyone in between.

First, it’s important to remember that pickleball is just a goofy-sounding game featuring plastic balls (which are usually yellow) and composite paddles (which are usually ugly) on a hard surface roughly a third the size of a tennis court. Three numbers are called before each serve in a doubles match, second shots must bounce, “bangers” are players who drive hard shots, and the area on either side of the net is known as “the kitchen.”

You don’t want to be in the kitchen until the ball has bounced in it. After that, you dink.

Confused? Don’t be. — Intrigued? Absolutely!

PICKLEBALL HISTORY While it’s recently become really popular—pickleball has actually been around for over 50 years. The game was invented in 1965 when Joel Prichard, a US congressman from Washington state, and a friend returned to Prichard’s home on Bainbridge Island after a golf outing. Dismayed that their families were lounging around, bored, they decided to initiate a game of badminton because the home had a court. When they couldn’t find all the necessary equipment, they started playing with pingpong paddles and a Wiffle ball. Once they discovered that the ball bounced well, they moved the game to asphalt and lowered the net. The next weekend, another friend joined the group, and then another. Due to its newfound popularity, they created a set of rules, and the game was born.

There is a raging controversy about the origin of the sport’s name. Some contend it was named after the Prichard family dog, Pickles. Others argue that the derivation stems from a pickle boat in crew—which is composed of random rowers picked from the leftovers of other boats. No one knows for sure except, today, 50 years later, it’s a very, very popular sport to play.

How popular? According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, as of 2020, more than 4 million people play it in the US—an increase of 21 percent from 2019. There are numerous pickleball YouTube channels, podcasts, and books. There’s even a new magazine, solely dedicated to it. In Pickleball is said to be the “the Vogue of Pickleball,” printed on heavy stock and appeals to the mostly older and well-off Americans who live for the game. Several cruise lines have added courts to their ships to appeal to devotees. And while the sport is a low-key diversion for many, pickleball is be-

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Piper Brightwell, Laurel Rice Brightwell, and Parrish Brightwell playing at Southern Trace.

coming increasingly competitive. There are tournaments in almost every major city, and professional tournaments are aired on CBS Sports Network, ESPN3, and the Tennis Channel.

What makes pickleball so addictive? “The secret sauce—and the reason the intergenerational stuff works—is because pickleball is very easy to learn, very easy to play and it’s super social,” says local pickleball enthusiast Laurel Brightwell.

The social aspects are baked in. The small court size encourages chit-chat between partners and opponents. A single-match rule in drop-in open play promotes ever-changing player combinations because a new foursome takes the court after each set. A paddle queuing system keeps track of who’s up next. If you show up alone, your paddle is randomly paired with another in the queue, sparking new friendships.

“That’s what makes pickleball so great. I love all the people I get to interact with,” Brightwell says. “It’s an inclusive community that welcomes anyone who wants to experience the joy of play-

Penn Brightwell

ing. The minute you step onto a court, you can have a good time. It’s something we need in our culture.”

But one shouldn’t be fooled by pickleball’s ease of play.

As one grows into the sport, strategy and technique become crucial— which is why hard-bitten competitors like Brightwell can never get enough.

3.

Naples, Florida, is The Pickleball Capital of the World. The term is actually trademarked by the Naples Pickleball Center, located at East Naples Community Park, with good reason. It’s home to the largest dedicated pickleball facility in the world, with an amazing 64 pickleball courts, and is also where the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships tournament is held. The largest spectator and participation pickleball tournament in the world, the tournament attracts over 25,000 visitors over a seven-day period.

4.

Gold Medal, anyone? According to the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP), the world governing body of pickleball, officials are working to get more countries interested in pickleball, and ultimately seeks official recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in order to establish pickleball as an Olympic sport and, hopefully, be introduced at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

5.

Need a court? While many new pickleball courts are being built, due to pickleball’s popularity, some tennis courts have been repurposed as pickleball courts. In fact, you can fit four pickleball courts in the same area as one tennis court.

6.

Tennis anyone? Tennis pros of all ages and abilities are moving to pickleball—as pros and players. Pam Wilkinson was a teaching tennis professional in New Jersey and Florida for over 20 years when she signed up to learn pickleball at a local tennis center. “I was hooked,” she says. Soon she started playing pickleball and became certified as an instructor. Today, three years later, she is the pickleball pro at Patch Reef Tennis Center, in Boca Raton, Florida. Tyson McGuffin was a tennis pro-teacher and is now one of the top-ranked tournament pickleball players in the world.

7.

Celebrities love pickleball. Larry David, Melinda Gates, Jamie Foxx, the Kardashians, Owen Wilson, Jillian Michaels, Zach Braff, Giuliana Rancic, George Clooney, and Leonardo DiCaprio. Even pro athletes from Russell Wilson to Annika Sörenstam have mastered the dink and drive.

8.

Where to play locally? According to USA Pickleball, there are more than 34,000 pickleball courts in America. Here are some options in the Shreveport-Bossier area:

“For me, if you play it well, you’re moving all the time,” she says. “While it’s exhausting, I still can’t play it enough!”

HOW DO YOU PLAY PICKLEBALL? According to Brightwell, the game of pickleball, is extremely easy to learn. It’s also accessible, affordable, and allows an almost unparalleled competitive balance across generations and genders. While some people consider pickleball similar to tennis, except for a smaller area of play, there are many differences.

Singles or doubles pickleball is played on a 20’ x 44’ court with a net. Paddles are made up of a composite of materials, which may include polymers, fiberglass, aluminum and graphite. They are smaller than tennis racquets and larger than ping pong paddles.

The game is played with a plastic ball with holes, similar to a Wiffle ball.

Games are played to 11 points, and many of the rules are the opposite of those in tennis. These include only getting points when you (or your doubles partner) are serving, no second serve and the service return must bounce before being hit.

Today, you can enjoy pickleball in any state in the U.S., as well as in 60 countries around the world. There are currently more than 35,000 courts across the U.S., across 9,000 locations.

Still intrigued? Here are a few more interesting aspects of this rising global sport.

8 FUN FACTS ABOUT PICKLEBALL Pickleball isn’t just for old people. While it became popular in senior communities, today the fastest growing pickleball-playing demographic is people ages 18-54.

1.

2.

You can get a workout playing pickleball. While there is definitely less running in pickleball (especially if you play doubles), it’s pretty easy to work up a sweat while playing.

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SB GOOD TO KNOW WILLIS-KNIGHTON MEDICAL CENTER MAKES NEWSWEEK’S WORLD’S BEST HOSPITALS LIST

Willis-Knighton Medical Center has been named one of the best hospitals in the United States by Newsweek magazine in its annual “World’s Best Hospitals” rankings.

There are more than 6,000 hospitals in the United States and Willis-Knighton was among 420 of those hospitals that earned the distinction. Hospitals in 27 countries were ranked. Willis-Knighton is the only North Louisiana hospital to make the Newsweek list. Hospitals were selected for the list based on recommendations from physicians and health care professionals; patient survey results; and key medical performance indicators, including data on quality of care, hygiene measures and patient safety.

TACO WARS 2022 ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF BEST TACO & BEST SALSA A record-breaking crowd flocked to this year’s Taco Wars to celebrate Latino culture and food at the region’s only taco and salsa festival and competition. The festival, presented by Modelo, Jose Cuervo, Maestro Dobel and the Prize Foundation, returned for 2022 on April 30 outside the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium to much fanfare of taco lovers throughout the area and generated over $60,000 in revenue for these local businesses.

The festival featured ten local taquerias, selling tacos to the public and battling it out for the coveted Golden Taco (Best Taco) and Golden Molcajete (Best Salsa). Participating taquerías included El Novillo Carniceria, La Potranca, Mi Mercadito, Mi Mera Latin Cuisine, Taqueria El Eden, Taqueria La Reyna del Sur, Taqueria Mi Palmar, Taqueria San Miguel, Ramirez Mexican Restaurant and Uneeda Taco. A panel of celebrity taco aficionados visited each of taquerias tents, tasted all of the submitted tacos and after careful deliberation, declared El Novillo Carniceria the winner of the Best Taco and the $1000 cash prize. Ramirez Mexican Restaurant defended its 2019 title and was again crowned best salsa by the audience and awarded a $500 cash prize.

MEDICAL CONFERENCE FOR PEDIATRICIANS, FAMILY PRACTITIONERS Many internationally recognized experts in the field of pediatric rheumatology will participate in the Cassidy Conference on June 16 at Shriner Hospital. Registration is open at childrenandarthritis.org/CassidyConference. Early diagnosis is essential to avoid joint and internal organ destruction and developmental issues. Presenting Sponsor is Willis-Knighton Health System in partnership with Shriner Hospital, Northwest Louisiana Pediatric Society, and Pediatric Rheumatologists of the South. Hosted by Children and Arthritis, Inc. CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATE ANNOUNCEMENT Mavice Hughes-Thigpen, owner of Eddie’s Restaurant on Hollywood Avenue, has announced that she’s running for city council in District B. The District B seat is currently held by LeVette Fuller and includes Highland and the South Highlands areas. Thigpen has worked in legislative affairs for the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce and the Caddo Parish Administrative office and worked for twenty years in the federal court system.

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BASTO NAMED ALL-CONFERENCE, DE MICHELE NAMED TO ALL-TOURNAMENT TENNIS TEAM LSUS Tennis’ Angela Basto has been named RRAC Second Team All-Conference, and Sophia de Michele was named to the All-Tournament Team. Basto has had one of the best seasons a Pilot has ever had on the court, resulting in the first All-Conference selection in program history. Her play this season helped the Pilots receive votes in the NAIA National Poll for the first time in program history. Both Basto and de Michele will be back next season as the Pilots hope to build upon the success they had this season.

ism, Jernigan brings her knowledge of marketing and public relations to the Alumni office. She earned two degrees from LSU Shreveport: a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Art with a concentration in Graphic Design and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus in Marketing. She also served on the LSUS Alumni Board of Directors, most recently as the vice president.

As an alumna herself, Jernigan looks forward to serving the Shreveport community within her new role. “I’m so excited to start a new journey in a place that already feels like home,” she says. “The last few years have been full of growth—both professional and personal. I can’t wait to translate those hard-won lessons into meaningful impact.”

KEVIN MURPHY, TIMOTHY CAIN HONORED AS BEST-IN-STATE WEALTH ADVISORS

LSU SHREVEPORT ALUM NAMED OPERATIONS MANAGER AT THE SPRING STREET MUSEUM LSUS alumna Claudia Finley has been named operations manager at the LSUS Foundation Spring Claudia Finley Street Museum. Finley earned a bachelor’s degree in history with a concentration in political science in 2021.

While attending LSUS, she interned at the museum. She worked at the Karpeles Museum in Shreveport before accepting the job with the Spring Street Museum. Finley will be responsible for daily museum operations and will work with the university to develop exhibits. She also will work with LSUS students interning at the museum. She will also assist with special events planning, including on-site lectures and community programs.

LSU SHREVEPORT NAMES NEW DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI DEVELOPMENT Jazmin Jernigan, MBA, was recently selected as the new Director of Alumni Development at LSU Shreveport.

Along with over a decade of nonprofit board service and community volunteer-

Jazmin Jernigan

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Kevin Murphy

Timothy Cain

Kevin Murphy and Timothy Cain, both Private Wealth Advisors with Ameriprise Financial in Shreveport, were named to the list of “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” published by Forbes magazine. The list recognizes financial advisors who have demonstrated high levels of ethical standards, professionalism, and success in the business.

NATIONAL CONFERENCE SPEAKER Dana Fergins, Adjunct Professor at Southern University Shreveport, will be a conference presenter at the National Institute for Staff and Organizational DevelopDana Fergins ment’s (NISOD) International Conference on Teaching and Leadership Excellence, to be held May 28-31 in Austin, Texas. Her presentation on Equity, Diversion, Inclusion, and Justice will have participants explore Growth Mindset Leadership for Equitable Education.

2-FOR-1 ENCHILADAS MON & TUES

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8995 MANSFIELD ROAD SHREVEPORT 318-687-1441

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AUTHOR'S CORNER

So you became interested in writing as well?

In 1995, Teddy Allen, for his book Blue Plate Special had the cover photo taken at Strawn’s. I was enthralled by that. I was 11 years old. And I thought, “Wow, what is it like to write a book?”

I think Teddy Allen at that time was the first real writer I knew of—someone who is obviously smart but also a relatable person.

It was the recognition that ‘real people’ write books.

What influence did attending Loyola Prep have on you?

Sister Sharon our religion teacher was really lovely, and she helped me think about the meaning of my actions to inspire me to want to be a good person. I don’t think I was an especially brilliant or strong writer but I remember Ms. Yates being a wonderful English teacher. And teaching me, you know, really, really teaching me, how to write and what that means. My senior year I discovered the ability to use writing as a means of translating my passion for the stories of real people. The principal was Ms. Whited. It was, an important formative moment of my life in terms of learning to write but also being in an environment that is caring and loving and is ideally teaching you to be caring and loving.

Your PhD is in Modern History. At what point in time does Modern History begin?

There’s no one answer on that. I would say more contemporary history would be from the 1500s onwards. Others might say the last hundred years.

How long did it take to write the book?

It took me three and a half years. You do one chapter, maybe every two or three months, and you end up with 18 chapters. So that’s the long road, but I feel very energized because I I believe deeply that it’s profoundly important.

BRANDON

Gauthier

& Before Evil

S

BY ELIZABETH DEAL

hreveport native Brandon K. Gauthier completed his doctorate in Modern History at Fordham University. He is the Director of Global Education at The Derryfield School and an Adjunct Professor at Fordham. He lives in Concord, New Hampshire, with his wife and two daughters. SB Magazine recently talked with him about the release of his first book, Before Evil: Young Lenin, Hitler, Stalin, Mussolini, Mao, and Kim. Have you always been interested in history?

I’ve always been a huge history buff from a very young age. My father would take me on a history trip once a year. There used to be an antique bookstore next to Strawn’s (the Gauthier family business) which has now been folded into King’s Antiques. I loved as a kid going into that antique bookstore and wanting all those books. My dad would bring me books from there all the time, bring me history books and that was super special. That’s the very earliest origins of me thinking about why people write books.

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What is the audience for Before Evil?

The book is meant to be very accessible to people of all backgrounds. The language of the book itself is more colloquial; the introduction is more academic. I try to write in a way that I think is going to be very engaging, blending storytelling with a lot of research which is reflected in the citations, but you know history must pop, it must be really interesting. And if it is boring your you are making a grave mistake because history is about the meaning of reality. History is about trying to derive meaning from the experiences of men, and what is the meaning of this existence.

I think a major problem with historians and academics is they speak in a way which is not engaging to the vast majority of people, and they fail, as a result, to realize the larger importance of what it is they have to say. I don’t think that good historical scholarship is talking to only 300 other professors. How is this important for someone, whether they be a Harvard scholar, or whether they have a blue-collar job? The book for me is about the notion of the humanity of inhumanity. Where do these men come from? What is the human story? But something I feel really strongly about is trying to offer a message that is rooted in the antithesis or an antidote to what they were. To encourage human beings to see a more complex story and to encourage individuals to recognize that love and mercy is our only salvation from tyranny.

How did you settle on this topic for your book?

Throughout the process of doing my dissertation I focused on the history of the United States, North Korea. And kind of the driving idea of what I learned in graduate school is one of the biggest reasons why things happen the way they happen is because of ideas. It’s the way that we see the world, and so, when I studied the United States and North Korea, I had the opportunity to think a lot about North Korean dictators and I started to think “What’s it like to be a North Korean dictator? Do they wake up in the morning and look in the mirror and think “I’m a horrible person who does horrible things.”

I really struggle with the fact that people who do really awful things are human beings. These are still homo sapiens. A lot of times you have people who commit crimes go to prison—a serial killer or sadist who will say “I know this is wrong, but this is just who I am and I’m going do it anyway.” Come what may, that’s not the story of these dictators. The story of these dictators is one of ideas and ideological fanaticism—they believe what they’re doing is right.

been asked, “Why should we care that he liked to read a classic novels as a kid? Should we not be talking about the victims of his crimes?” We can distinguish ourselves by trying to humanize and empathize with even the worst among us, even if we hold them accountable. Nothing we do in that regard can ever diminish or excuse their evil. That is the path to being different but that’s hard. But to romanticize or try to introduce any element of description that diminishes their evil—that’s inherently wrong.

The power of ideas can blind us from not being able to recognize what is inherently wrong or evil. We might see someone doing something terribly unethical and we wonder how they can’t see that this is wrong. The story is one that I think is a bit disturbing because it’s not about just only trauma or being born as evil and predetermined to do these terrible things. It’s about kids who want to make the world a better place. They’re all huge readers and become obsessed with ideas and they view themselves through this heroic lens.

If you can show empathy or compassion for those who least deserve it, that doesn’t mean that they’re not held accountable.

The right to be compassionate doesn’t mean that someone is not going to be punished.

The story of crimes against humanity and evil is a human story.

It’s about the humanity of inhumanity and now we’re getting to an uncomfortable place because nobody wants to examine the story of murderers and dictators. We see these men who thought what they were doing was right. It’s called Before Evil because it returns to the time in their life before they were evil, the story of their childhoods.

The larger purpose is to encourage readers to recognize what happens when we lose empathy for others. When the ends justify the means that’s how we ourselves become evil, but very rarely do people realize it. Those who are doing terrible things think they’re right.

Kim Jong-un would say “I’m doing what I have what has to be done for the sake of my country and you don’t understand it, but I do.”

In carrying out the Holocaust and murdering six million Jewish men and women and children, Hitler doesn’t do it because he believes it’s wrong. Somehow, in his warped view of the world, he believes it’s right.

Why should we humanize the world’s most inhumane leaders?

I will say directly, I think we must humanize the most inhumane, because they are in fact human beings.

If we don’t humanize them, it suggests that their actions aren’t explicable. If we don’t humanize the perpetrators of that evil we lose sight of how human beings can do these things, whether it be as a result of mental health influences. I don’t think that’s necessarily true for these dictators at all, they think they’re quite rational. Their actions are based on an ideological fanaticism.

The reason why we should humanize the inhumane is because we care so much about what happens to their victims. Why should we be talking about the fact that Hitler loved his mother? Who cares? Shouldn’t we be talking about the Holocaust? It’s because we care so much about the Holocaust that we seek to understand the humanity of the person who did it.

The fact that Benito Mussolini loved Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables as a kid. Does it really matter that a 10-year-old Mussolini was really into Victor Hugo? I argue this is an important part of his life.

He would become a fascist dictator, but there’s a time in his life, he really believes he’s going to fight poverty that he believes he’s going to end. It doesn’t start with a fascist dictator who wants to be a war criminal; it starts with a little boy reading about poverty.

Why should we be taking the time to humanize Mao Zedong?

He was responsible for the death of 45 million people. I’ve

But we try to be what they were not capable of being, which is individuals who not only struggle against what’s wrong, but individuals who are capable of love and mercy.

You say that historical conundrums keep you up at night?

I think about history through that lens of what it means to be a person. It’s hard to be a person. It’s hard to be a human being.

What also keeps me up at night, is something that Ronald Reagan said in his evil empire speech in 1983. He was quoting CS Lewis, but that the worst evil that plays out doesn’t happen only in concentration camps, where we see its end result. Some of the worst evil that occurs happens in warm offices with men who are very well dressed, who don’t have to yell. They speak very quietly.

They do paperwork and sign orders that send many people to miserable circumstances where they’re going to suffer. And that is evil, because those individuals are totally removed from that suffering, and they don’t feel the pain of others. So I can’t get over it, I never will. I wrote a book about it for that reason. How do people become that person, but how can we strive to be different, and how can we try to teach kids?

Any final thoughts?

In working with kids, I feel it in my gut, I really do, day after day, you have to be willing to stand up for what is right. We should challenge things that we find to be wrong, but we also have to be good people.

I realize that the worst moments of my life were the moments when I did not consider the harm that my actions caused, did not consider the pain that I could cause someone else. So my role as an educator is to try to inspire kids to be empathetic and to care about other people, and this book is an effort to grapple with some of the very worst things that have ever happened. Some of the most evil people who have ever lived. For the larger purpose of encouraging the opposite: empathy.

Shreveport is my home—you know it will always be my home.

I really appreciate and respect SB Magazine and it’s really fun to be able to share this with the community. Thank you for the opportunity.

Before Evil Book Reading and Signing with author

Brandon Gauthier

Sunday, August 14 3-4 PM Strawn’s Too 7803 Youree Drive, Shreveport On sale at the Barnes & Noble on Youree Drive SBMAG.NET

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THIS AD IS PAID FOR BY PROUD SUPPORTERS OF JIM TALIAFERRO FOR MAYOR.

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Beautiful tells the true story of Carole King’s remarkable rise from teenage songwriter to global superstar.

She fought her way into the record business as a schoolgirl, but it wasn’t until her personal life began to crack that she finally found her true voice and went on to become one of the most successful solo artists in pop music history.

Featuring famous songs like “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “You’ve Got a Friend” and “Will you Love Me Tomorrow” this captivating musical will make you laugh, cry and cheer for more!

thestrandtheatre.com (318) 226-8555

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SB EVENTS

Celebrating 25 years of bringing this regional musical event to the downtown historic district and Cane River Lake, the festival offers a variety of music from jazz and rock to soul and country.

The Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival truly promises something for everyone. The festival will be held on Saturday, featuring three stages of music on the historic and picturesque downtown riverbank in Natchitoches with food vendors on site.

CREATE YOUR OWN GLASS BLOWING ART WORKSHOPS Venue: Date: Time: Price: Info:

Sanctuary Glass Studio Recurring weekly Wednesday–Thursday, 9am to 5pm Friday–Saturday, 12pm to 8pm Sunday, 9am to 5pm Contact the studio for pricing sanctuaryglassstudio.com

MARKETS & MUSIC IN THE PARK

Visit the Sanctuary Glass Studio and create your own glass artwork such as hummingbird feeders, wine glasses, pilsner beer glasses, decorative bowls, olive oil decanters, paperweights, Christmas ornaments, pumpkins, and flowers. You heat the glass, gather the color, and blow the glass while an artist assists you in creating a oneof-a-kind work of art.

BOSSIER CITY FARMERS MARKET Venue: Date: Time: Price: Info:

Pierre Bossier Mall Opens April 2nd and continues every Saturday through November Saturdays 9am to 5pm Free www.bossiercityfarmersmarket.com

Produce, Arts & Crafts, Food Trucks, Handmade Goods, Plants, Baked Goods, and More! Bossier City is booming, and so is the Bossier City Farmer’s Market! Located in the ample parking lot of Pierre Bossier Mall every Saturday!

JAZZ FEST 25 Venue: Date: Price: Info:

Natchitoches, Louisiana May 20-21, 2022 $40.00 www.natchjazzfest.com

Live music in a family-friendly atmosphere on the beautiful Natchitoches downtown riverbank! COMMODORES HEADLINING!

Venue: Date: Time: Price: Info:

Windrush Park at Provenance May 19, 2022 4pm-7pm Free 318-683-0399

Join us for Markets and Music at the Park. You can look forward to enjoying a free outdoor concert at Windrush Park and shopping for locally grown produce and homemade food, art, and more. Bring chairs and a blanket to spread out and enjoy the neighborhood! Food trucks will be in attendance.

GAMEPORT EXHIBIT AT SCI-PORT Venue: Date: Info:

Festival Plaza May 27-October 2, 2022 www.sci-port.org

Sci-Port Discovery Center’s special exhibit, GamePort, returns on May 27 and will be open through October 2, 2022. From coding challenges to classic games, GamePort puts a new spin on learning S.T.E.M. This exhibit features interactive stations designed to enhance critical thinking skills, learn some basic classic science principles, and promote a variety of science-driven career options in the video game industry in a fun and stimulating environment.

KIM CRAWFORD WINES EVERYDAY $ .49 LOW PRICE

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750ML

*Buy a case of 12 and receive each bottle at $14.99.

WATERMELON SPRITZER COCKTAIL RECIPE • 2oz Watermelon Juice • 1/2oz Lemon Juice • 1oz Vodka • 1oz Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc • 1 ½oz Sparkling Water • Lemon Twist

For catering & daiquiri machine rentals call Tyler Miller (318) 742.3240 • 15 LOCATIONS!

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MUDBUG MADNESS Venue: Date: Time: Price: Info:

Festival Plaza May 27-May 29, 2022 11am to 11pm $6 318-226-5641

This year’s Mudbug Madness Festival will be held at Festival Plaza in Shreveport on May 27-29. Join Mudbug Madness for a full weekend of festivities. Mudbug Madness Festival began in 1984 as a two-day street festival in downtown Shreveport and is now one of Louisiana’s largest and most popular Cajun festivals, featuring renowned Cajun, Zydeco, Blues, and Jazz artists, mouth-watering Cajun cuisine, crawfish eating contests, and fun for all ages. Now a three-day festival held each Memorial Day weekend, Mudbug Madness is nationally recognized as one of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 Events and the American Bus Association’s Top 100 Events in the nation.

SEE #1 WORLD RANKED US WOMENS VOLLEYBALL TEAM Venue: Date: Price: Info:

SHREVEPORT FARMERS MARKET Venue: Date: Time: Price: Info:

Festival Plaza June 4-August 27, 2022 Saturdays, 7:30am-12:30pm Free www.redriverrevel.com/farmers-market

We seek to provide a forum creating cooperation among farmers, other vendors, and our community, while educating consumers, offering a market for farmers to sell their goods, serving as a business incubator for food artisans, and bring together people from the Northwest Louisiana, Far East Texas, and Southern Arkansas region.

STORY TRAIL CRAFT & ACTIVITIES Venue: Date: Time: Price: Info:

Red River National Wildlife Refuge June 11, 2022 10am to 11:50 am Free 318-742-1219

Brookshire Grocery Arena May 31-June 5, 2022 $99 318-683-0399

The U.S. Women’s National Team will play on U.S. soil for the first time since winning the Olympic gold medal in Tokyo when it competes in the 2022 FIVB Volleyball Nations League (VNL) on May 31-June 5 at Brookshire Grocery Arena Bossier City, Louisiana. The U.S. Women ranked No. 1 in the world, are the three-time defending VNL champions. Their Louisiana stop will kick off three weeks of VNL preliminary-round competition, and the only preliminary round hosted in the United States. Top teams in the preliminary round advance to the final round on July 13-17.

GLASSBLOWING SHREVEPORT/BOSSIER’S HOTTEST PARTY VENUE

Come join us at Red River National Wildlife Refuge for a Story Trail Craft! On the second Saturday of each month, walk the trail and stop in at the Education Center to meet the staff from the Bossier Parish Libraries for a craft and activity. These crafts will change every month to reflect the theme of our book on the Story Trail. For now, these crafts will be prepared in grab bags so you can take them home to complete or do them here at the Refuge! There will be two sessions. The 10 a.m. session is intended for younger children, and the 11 a.m. session is designed for older children. Complete a craft to earn an entry for this month’s storybook prizes.

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BY BRAD JONES

FATHER’S DAY PREP: Seven Tips to Open Fire Cooking

Is

Dad firing up the grill or smoker this year for Father’s Day? Are you planning to cook the perfect steak for him this year?

As we get closer to summertime and Father’s Day, everyone will be venturing outside to do more cooking. Each year there are ‘set it and forget it’ gadget lists to perfect your Father’s Day cooking, but we believe some of the best flavors and experiences come from open fire, outdoor cooking instead of the latest gadgetry. This year we are providing you with seven tips to perfect your own open fire cooking projects to unlock your home cooking potential.

TIP 1. BE PATIENT WITH YOUR FIRE

The easiest way to burn your food using an open fire method is to be impatient. Wait for your wood or charcoal to burn down to embers before you begin cooking. If you put your food directly over large flames you risk burning and over charring the outside of your food before the inside cooks properly. Letting your fire burn down to coals should take anywhere from thirty to forty-five minutes depending on your fuel source.

Just be patient, it will be worth it. Some of the greatest barbecue pit masters actually start their fire separately and transfer the coals to the cooking area.

TIP 2. COOK USING ZONES

All grills, ovens, fire pits, and smokers have different heat zones you should familiarize yourself with when cooking. Try holding your hand over your cooking area about eighteen inches above your heat source. Where is it unbearably hot? Where is it more tolerable? These are spots to remember when you need a really hot sear, or if you are finishing a slower roast. Don’t be afraid to move things around the grill constantly, depending on the cooking method you need. The shorter the cook time, the hotter spot you need, and the opposite is true for longer cook times.

TIP 3. DON’T OVER COOK IT

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The majority of open fire cooking is for quick cooking, such as grilling, but there are many other ways to utilize hot coals and flame. Remember, always try to preselect the cooking method that suits your food. For example, a ribeye steak is going to be a quick grill, versus a whole chicken might be a longer roast. The beauty of open fire cooking is its versatility. If you have limited yourself to only grilling, try baking flatbread or doing a roast in a Dutch oven.

TIP 4. PREP YOUR FOOD

Once you start open fire cooking, things happen quickly, so make sure you have everything ready before you start.

Does your meal require a marinade? Make sure you plan for it in advance. Also, have all your equipment ready and on hand before you start. Some of our favorite cooking equipment for open fire cooking includes a long pair of sturdy tongs, a large metal spatula, and a well-seasoned cast iron pan or Dutch oven.

TIP 5. WATER IS YOUR FRIEND

Sometimes open fire cooking can get out of hand, always keep a nearby water source at hand to put out any rogue flames. A spray bottle full of water also comes in handy to tamp down flames from dripping food or wild coals. If you are doing a long roast or smoke, try filling a spray bottle with apple cider to marinate and glaze your meat as it cooks. Spray every thirty to forty-five minutes. Also, don’t forget to stay hydrated, open fire cooking is hard work!

TIP 6. GETTING THAT GRILL FLAVOR

Did you know the majority of that ‘grill’ flavor isn’t technically coming from your charcoal or wood source?

The majority of the ‘grill’ flavor most people experience is actually from fat and juices vaporizing when they come in contact with your coals or burning wood. That vapor “infuses” with your food as it cooks and imparts a ‘grill’ flavor. So don’t be afraid to let the juices from that burger or steak run onto your coals, because they are just adding more flavor!

TIP 7. KEEP IT CLEAN

No one likes their food covered in crusty, burned food.

Make sure you are keeping your open fire cooking vessel as clean as possible. Most grills, smokers, and fire pits are constructed out of metal that can rust. One of the major factors causing your metal to rust is left over food particles that haven’t been properly cleaned out.

A sturdy grill brush or steel wool is a great investment to keep your open fire cooking vessel clean. Also, don’t forget to remove any ashes once your coals have cooled down. These will impede proper air flow in future cooking. You can use these ashes in your compost or garden soil!

CHEF ALLISON’S ALL PURPOSE SOUTHERN TWIST MARINADE à

à à à

2 Pounds of your favorite meat - skirt steak is great for this recipe!

1 Cup Worcestershire 1/2 Cup Soy Sauce 1/2 Cup Lime Juice

à à à à à

4-6 Cloves Garlic Minced 2 TBL Gochujang 2 TBL Olive Oil 1 TBL Onion Powder 1 Teaspoon Fresh Black Pepper

INSTRUCTIONS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Place meat in a shallow dish or sandwich bag.

In a medium bowl combine all other ingredients.

Pour marinade over meat and refrigerate 4-8 hours.

Grill or roast meat, salting to taste.

Discard marinade unless cooking all the way through.

You can reduce marinade in a sauce pot and add sugar to create a glaze for meat.

Thank you to Cypress by the Revenir for the open fire cooking tips, recipe, and photos. Recipe by Allison Gras.

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AND ANOTHER THING…

For the first time — on Opening Night, 1986 — the Shreveport Captains line up at Fair Grounds Field.

(Shreveport Journal photo)

in 1986 to overflow crowds and was home to the San Francisco Giants Class AA-affiliate Captains for 14 years, it now defines “aged poorly.”

Mother Nature can be a beast; I wouldn’t walk through those old hallowed grounds now after four tetanus shots and wearing a hazmat suit.

I’d hoped back then it’d be built on the river, and people getting off work would hear the music and the P.A. and batting practice and start wandering down after work. My dreams were big. Never did I imagine it would become a luxury condo for flying mammals.

Soon it’ll be gone. For good.

Though in all honesty, the ballpark left a long time ago.

She was

But there was a time …

MORE THAN

FAIR

BY TEDDY ALLEN

T

he sweet smells of hot dogs and nachos rode the summer wind then, back when Fair Grounds Field was a baseball arcade, a giant toy where the Shreveport Captains played, a diamond of Texas League titles and All-Star games.

But the once noble 4,200-seat stadium, which for 16 years provided summer fun and created lifelong memories for area baseball fans, will soon be brought to its concrete knees.

By now we all know that Fair Grounds Field is scheduled to be demolished around the end of the summer or this fall, and not a minute too soon. If the city waits until Christmas, maybe the accumulated bat poop alone will cause it to collapse.

It hasn’t hosted an event since 2011, back when Green Bay (Super Bowl), the Dallas Mavericks (NBA), and Charl Schwartzel (Masters) were champions, and Hangover II was a hit. Since, it’s slumped slowly by Interstate 20, an obvious victim of time, weather, weeds, hobo animals, and lack of care.

How the demolition company hired to bring it down will do so, well, that’ll be a sight to see. It’ll take a minute or two; there’s enough concrete in that thing to pave Powhatan.

It’s a demented fantasy to think it can be saved in any sort of way practical. Precious memories of double plays and double dates don’t dismiss an ugly reality that the one-time red carpet-worthy movie star of yesteryear is now Norma Desmond on the corner of Sunset Boulevard and Don’t Go Near That Place.

A shame for sure, but what’s done is done. It wasn’t built in the best spot, wasn’t built in the best way, and although it opened

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Soft serve in a little plastic batting helmet. Children running the bases after a game. The Captains Club for kids (18 bucks a year, and that’s including a T-shirt!) Terri and Jon and Taylor in the front office, and all they were was perfect…

Season tickets and friends in Section 105. Free Arnold Palmers in the press box. The beer garden. The (Hated) Jackson Mets. Sticky nights and kids playing catch outside the visitors’ bullpen…

Calvin Murray and Royce Clayton, Damon Minor and Jeff Brantley, Wendell Kim and Ron Wotus and Texas League championships in 1990, ’91, and ’95. Mackey “The Hacker” Sasser. Craig Mays. Benji Simonton…

“Preacher” lyrically working the stands.“Old Mother Hubbard, went to the cupboard, to fetch herself a beer. But she didn’t have any ’cause I have them all right here.” …

Charlie Hayes. Charlie Corbell. Romy and Medvin and Yorvit Torrealba. Jason Grilli. Everett Graham. Todd Thomas. Deron McCue. Former Tennessee quarterback Alan Cockrell…

Little League teams standing on the field in their little uniforms, caps over their little hearts by the Captain of their choice during the National Anthem. Headlines and game stories and features in the Shreveport Journal and in The Times the next day. Box scores and the agate page. Checking today’s starters and “Daddy, can we go tonight?” …

She was never the prettiest girl in town. Well … maybe she was for a short while. But still, for the longest time, she was quite the looker. And everybody had to look. You were helpless not to.

Remember the magic number?

318.636.5555. Try it if you want.“The number you have reached is not in service…”

But once, it was. And it was a beautiful thing.

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

Hunter G. Crain, MBA Financial Advisor CA Insurance #4135191 AR License #19940185

Timothy B Crain, CFP®, BFATM, CRPC®, AAMS®, CLTC® Financial Advisor, Managing Partner CA Insurance #0G32450 AR License #1687363

Christopher P. Murphy, CRPC®, APMA®, BFA™ Financial Advisor Christopher.P.Murphy@ ampf.com CA Insurance #0I90593 AR License #4713796

Kevin L Murphy, CFP® Private Wealth Advisor Managing Partner Chairman’s Advisory Council 2000 - 2022 Kevin.L.Murphy@ampf.com CA Insurance #0H32796 AR License #1224061

Tanner Murphy, CFA®, CRPC®, CLTC® Financial Advisor Tanner.Murphy@ampf.com CA Insurance #0L80486 AR License #18201351

Jennifer Floyd, CRPC® Financial Advisor CA Insurance #0M07456

Laveer Wealth Management Ameriprise Private Wealth Advisory Practice

Kevin L. Murphy Honored As Best-In-State Wealth Advisor by Forbes 2020-22 and Timothy B. Crain also Honored As Best-In-State Wealth Advisor by Forbes 2022.

Murphy and Crain were chosen based on assets under management, industry experience, compliance record and best practices in his practice and approach to working with clients. Murphy and Crain are part of Laveer Wealth Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. As a Private Wealth Advisors, Murphy and Crain provide financial advice that is anchored in a solid understanding of client needs and expectations, provided in one-on-one relationships with their clients.

Murphy has 40 years of experience and Crain has 26 years with Ameriprise Financial.

The Forbes Top Women, Best-in-State Women and Best-in-State Wealth Advisor rankings are developed by SHOOK Research and are created using an algorithm that includes both qualitative (in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings; client impact; industry experience; review of best practices and compliance records; and firm nominations) and quantitative (assets under management and revenue generated for their firms) data. Certain awards include a demographic component to qualify. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. These rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC, are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience and are based on data from the previous calendar year. Forbes magazine and SHOOK Research do not receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information: www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC.

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