Features JUNE 2014
30 P. Allen Smith Bringing the garden indoors through the seasons
44 Bayou Artist Vanessa Perkins takes on motherhood, Hollywood, a famous spouse and Buster Keaton...all without breaking a sweat
86 A Quiet Grace This month’s BayouIcons are Carole and Tex Kilpatrick
94 A True Saint New Orleans’ Saints tight end, Ben Watson, talks about football, his passion for family and his foundation, One More
106 Summer Treats We’ve taken the time and sacrificed waistlines to take the guesswork out of your next ice cream excursion
116 Home Grown Cigar smoker and tobacco connoisseur, Friday Ellis, talks about his new venture, Governors Cigar and Pipe
112 Five Essentials for Summer Key pieces for the season from area boutiques 4 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
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HIS MONTH HAS FLOWN BY AND WITH
it a lot of events in north Louisiana. Our team, BayouLife Magazine Deadliners, came in 5th overall in the Bayou DeSiard Dragon Boat Festival, and we had a blast. I want to thank everyone who participated. Much to my dismay, I have to say farewell to my friend, Bam – I mean Anderson Hurd. Thank you for all your help these last two years. We wish you much luck and success in graduate school. Our photo shoot this month was incredible and with a team that included Joli Livaudais, Meka Bennett and Emily Prestridge, there’s no reason why it wouldn’t have been. We focused on the five essentials for Summer: the jean, the necklace, the romper, the wedge and the tee. See pages 122-126. On May 4th, a crowd gathered at Sue and Walter Sartor’s home for this year’s Blend of the Bayou. There were some tasty dishes and delicious drinks, but I have to give a shout out to my husband, Trent Livingston, and his co-chefs John Navarro and Steve Brennan for their Cinco de Mahi fish tacos. Melanie and I left our office and had Eskamoe’s for dinner after laying out the pages for this month’s BayouEats column. Michael DeVault and Joli Livaudais toured our area’s most delicious ice cream stops for this special section on sweet treats. See pages 106111. We were so appreciative to join forces again with the Monroe/West Monroe Convention and Visitor’s Bureau for the Wish You Were Here photo cover contest. Neal Holliman was the Grand Prize winner and his image, Bayou Trails, is our June cover shot. Thank you to everyone who participated this year. FIVE ESSENTIALS FOR SUMMER, PAGE 122
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I feel lucky to have been raised in a small town, and one of the reasons is because you really do know everyone. Our friend Friday Ellis is a fellow Rayvillian and is the owner of one of Monroe’s newest hot spots, Governors Cigar and Pipe. See Mary Napoli’s article on this popular new hangout on page 116. If you’re like me, you grew up watching 3rd Rock From the Sun and loved French Stewart. I had no idea that he was married to a Monroe native, much less that his beautiful wife was a talented screenwriter. On page 47, Michael talks to Vanessa about her newest play, Stoneface, hitting the stage this June. We want to congratulate all the new graduates and wish our dads a very happy Father’s Day. I have been blessed to have a wonderful father who has always made sure that I had his support and also a husband who is a blessing to me and my girls. I love you dearly Jack Green and Trent Livingston! We hope you enjoy reading this issue of BayouLife Magazine.
~ Cassie Livingston
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 7
The Beers of Summer They’re Good for What ‘Ales’ You
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BY DELIA SIMPSON, CRAFT, SPECIALTY & IMPORT MANAGER, CHOICE BRANDS, INC.
T’S TIME TO BEAT THAT SUMMER heat! Here are some of the new summer seasonal selections that will be available in stores in the coming months.
Sam Adams With their seasonal ale, a refreshing Bavarian Radler (Porch Rocker), and a variety pack, the folks at Boston Beer never let us down! Sam Adams Summer Ale is crisp and tangy with refreshing lemon peel and a hint of pepper from rare Grains of Paradise. Golden, hazy and thirst quenching, this American wheat ale balances bright citrus, Noble hops and spice for a lively brew that’s perfect on any summer day. The 2014 Beers of Summer variety pack delivers on the exploration that Sam drinkers have come to enjoy during the warmer summer months. This year marks the return of two favorites (Belgian Session and Blueberry Hill Lager) in addition to perennial summer favorites Boston Lager, Porch Rocker, and White Lantern.
Abita Brewing Company 2014 has been a busy year for Louisiana’s #1 craft brewery. With an expansion of the facility and the addition of several new brews, Abita has definitely stepped up their game. This June will see the debut of Seersucker Pils, the newest in their seasonal 8 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
lineup. Abita Seersucker Summer Pils is a traditional pilsner with a full bodied malt flavor, hop bitterness and a light golden color. It is made with pilsner and carapils malts, hopped with German Tradition and Spalt hops. This Pils pairs well with seasonal summer favorites like grilled chicken, salmon or garden salads. It also is a refreshing choice with spicier dishes, Mexican food and most Asian cuisines. Try it with a mild white Vermont cheddar, Havarti or Monterey Jack cheese. Also on the slate is the newest in the Harvest Collection, Lemon Wheat. It is a crisp, refreshing beer made with lemon peel for a fresh citrus taste and aroma. This unfiltered brew has a hazy, golden color and is made with lager and wheat malts, Centennial hops and Biere de Garde yeast. This brew is an excellent choice with many dishes. It pairs wonderfully with salads if the dressing is not too sweet. Great with shrimp, lobster or any fish, even the most delicate. Leinenkugel’s Over the last few years, Summer Shandy has become the go-to hot weather beverage of choice for many. A shandy is beer mixed with a little something extra like soda, juice or ginger ale. Leinenkugel's Summer Shandy is a traditional wheat beer with refreshing natural lemonade flavor that makes it perfect for the sun-splashed summer months.
Blue Moon As golden as the summer sun with a white, creamy head, Blue Moon Summer Honey Wheat may have a slight amount of haze from the wheat. Take in that rich clover honey aroma. It blends well with the light, biscuity malt notes. You’ll notice a slightly sweet clover honey taste with a hint of citrus. There is just a hint of hop bitterness to provide balance. The mouthfeel is light-bodied with a medium level of carbonation to balance the taste of wheat and honey. The finish is light and sweet with subtle citrus notes to heighten the refreshing character of this ale.
Angry Orchard Everyone’s favorite cider is getting into the seasonal game as well. Angry Orchard Elderflower has tropical notes from the elderflower balanced by a fresh, bright, fruity flavor reminiscent of lychee, pears, and citrus. This flower compliments the crisp apple flavor resulting in a balanced sweetness that brings the fruit and flower together. So, grab your favorite (or several of your favorites), find some shade, and stay cool!
For more information on our products and to keep up with events etc., like us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/choicebrands.
Doc’s Notebook
Real Results for Real Women and Hopkins Dermatology
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BY DR. JANINE HOPKINS
LIDE INTO THE NEW SEASON with smooth glowing skin. Thursday, June 5th is the TNS Rejuvenating Vitalize Peel Event sponsored by Skin Medica at Hopkins Dermatology.
Summer Skin: • MA Mandelic Peel – This is a great starting point for your skin. Have this done for a special occasion to give your complexion a redcarpet glow. • PA Pyruvic Peel – This medium strength peel is designed to reveal fresh new skin with little or no down time. • TCA Trichloroacetic Peel – This is a deeper non-invasive peel with long lasting results. It rids the skin of signs of winter, revealing radiant beautiful skin with a soft glow.
Augment Earlobes: By utilizing a painless 10 minute injection of Juvéderm Ultra Plus, you can re-volumize your earlobes. Years of wear and tear from heavy earrings can age the ear. Restore and replenish the lobes within minutes using this new technique.
The Ultimate: Sculptra Aesthetic and Voluma are the premier fillers in facial volume loss. Around the age of 35 when collagen begins to break down is the perfect time to begin a maintenance pro-
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gram that can last up to two years.
Clean Transformation: Microplane Facial...using a precision tool, a light exfoliation is combined with the removal of the fine velum hair producing a brighter smoother skin surface. The procedure provides a polished radiant look and allows the skin to be more receptive to your skin care regime.
Endless Possibilities: Be sure to focus on the eyes. Splash the color on your lids. Beautiful glossy lips amp up the drama. MD Minerals has your new Summer eye and lip story ready for you. Prep Work: Get ready for Summer with laser hair removal for every area (i.e. bikini line) with no razor rash!
Leg Perfection: It is time to put away those tights and leggings. We use Asclera for uncomplicated spider veins and small Varicose veins. Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure done by Dr. Hopkins in a treatment session that lasts 15 to 45 minutes. Enjoy the freedom to show your legs. For those who have an aversion to injections, laser treatments are also available to effectively treat spider veins on legs.
The Divine Proportion: Artists have used this formula for centuries to create harmony and balance. For lips, it translates into a guideline that the upper lip should be about 40% of the total lips and the bottom lip should be about 60%. Do not lose the Cupid’s Bow… it is most attractive when it is well defined, serving as the focal point of the upper lip. Restylane injectable gel can enhance your lips and more. Let go of marionette and lipstick lines and get the tilt back in the corners of your mouth. The “ideal” lip can be achieved and maintained.
Finish Up: Following any facial procedure, visit the MD Minerals studio for a quick touchup with the MD Magic Concealer. Used with the MD Minerals Pointed Camouflage Brush, this product is “just like magic” to downplay bruising and is perfect for rosacea patients as well. By refracting the light rather than reflecting it, concealment is flawless. Also checkout MD Minerals Liquid Foundation for a smooth seamless finish. Light layering is the key to a natural glow. Inquire about our Sculptra Event June 1718. Call to schedule your "liquid lift" today!
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 11
Balloon Sinuplasty™
The New Minimally Invasive Procedure for Treating Chronic Sinusitis
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INUSITIS IS ONE OF THE MOST COMMON CHRONIC health problems in the U.S., afflicting 37 million Americans each year with symptoms like congestion, fatigue, headache and facial pain. About 12% of Americans under age 45 have symptoms of chronic sinusitis. Here in Louisiana, the number is exceptionally high due to higher pollen counts and year-round humidity. Living with chronic sinusitis can be a full-time struggle. Sufferers often depend on allergy medications, nasal steroids and over the counter pain relievers for sinus headaches to make it through the day. Trouble with sleeping and sleep apnea are common problems because of difficulties with breathing through nose. Recurring sinus infections, often as many as 4 per year, cause missed work and significantly impact the ability to enjoy regular activities. Now available at Glenwood Ear, Nose and Throat, Balloon Sinuplasty™ is a clinically proven, minimally invasive procedure for treating chronic sinus inflammation and pain outside of the operating room and without general anesthesia. Performed by Brent Metts, MD, PhD, it delivers all the benefits of conventional sinus surgery without the bleeding, pain and prolonged recovery time. Most patients feel immediate relief following the procedure and are able to walk out of the office and work without restriction the next day. Until recently, the only surgical option available to correct chronic sinusitis has been standard endoscopic sinus surgery, where bone and tissue are cut and removed from the nasal passages to open obstructed sinuses and promote drainage. This more traditional procedure is usually associated with moderate pain, bleeding and a 7-10 day recovery time. Balloon Sinuplasty™ is designed to open blocked sinuses without removal of tissue or bone from the nasal passages. Dr. Metts passes a small, flexible balloon catheter through the nostril and into the blocked sinus. When the balloon is inflated, it gently reshapes and expands the sinus’ natural drainage pathway to permanently
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restore normal sinus function. A typical procedure lasts approximately 30 minutes. Following the procedure, patients experience less facial pain and improved sleep, use less antibiotics, and are able to perform day-to-day activities at home and work.
ABOUT DR. METTS: Dr. Metts provides adult and pediatric patients with a full range of ENT services. His training began in a M.D, Ph.D. combined training program at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He completed his residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin and earned a fellowship in Endocrine – Head and Neck Surgery at the Medical College of Georgia. He was also a member of the teaching staff at Children’s Medical Center in Augusta, GA. Dr. Metts is one of the few surgeons in the nation who is fellowship trained in “minimally invasive” and “endoscopic-assisted” thyroid and parathyroid surgeries. For decades these were inpatient procedures involving large incisions, extensive tissue trauma and scarring. This procedure is now performed by Dr. Metts on an outpatient basis, with a small incision, much less tissue trauma, less pain, a quicker recovery time and little or no noticeable scarring. In addition, Dr. Metts has a Ph.D. in Vestibular Neuroscience. Combined with his medical training in ENT, he specializes in the evaluation of patients with dizziness and equilibrium issues. Dr. Metts also provides treatment of sinus and thyroid disease, hearing loss, voice care, sleep apnea and dysphagia. Glenwood Ear, Nose and Throat is located in the Glenwood Medical Mall at 102 Thomas Road, Suite 202, in West Monroe. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Metts, call 318-329-8458. Office hours from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (M-F). Most insurances are accepted.
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 13
Overcoming Travel Anxiety Melissa Sanderlin Discusses Ways to Battle Your Vacation Anxiety
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BY MELISSA SANDERLIN, LPC NCC
OR MOST OF US, SPRING BREAK has come and gone. But travel season is just beginning. This usually brings excitement and joy as planning starts. After all, vacations are a time for us to escape our stresses and relax for a bit. But for those if us with travel anxiety, this time can be quite dreadful. It is a common issue that most people have experienced at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, it can drain all of the fun out of vacation, not only for the anxious but also for our loved ones. Some travelers have extreme anxiety for situations in which they feel they have no control. Therefore, the idea of air travel or sea travel can be terrifying. And no matter how many times they are reminded of the statistic that flying is the safest form of travel, they cannot let go of the anxiety related to their lives being totally in the hands of another. Another fear I hear often is the general fear of the unknown. People can get so comfortable in their routines that the idea of going to a new place can become unsettling. They can be flooded with questions. What if I get lost? What if I need a doctor or hospital? What will I do if the car breaks down? What if the destination is not what I expected? What if I lose my passport? How can I ever be prepared for the unexpected? A more recent anxiety I am hearing from friends and clients is a fear of tragedy. There 14 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
have been so many news stories lately related to horrific violence (or cruises gone bad) that some people have become afraid to go anywhere they are not already familiar. Again, statistics do not matter. The fact that they see violence and tragedy occurring in seemingly safe places on a regular basis makes it seem more likely that they could experience such tragedy. Luckily, there are many things you can do to battle the anxiety: • Controlled breathing – Breathe in through your nose to the count of five, hold for five seconds, then breathe out through your mouth for seven seconds. Repeat until anxiety decreases.
• Grounding – When anxiety begins, name 3 things you see. Name 3 things you hear. Name 3 things you can feel. Using your senses keeps you grounded in reality rather than the disconnect felt with anxiety. • Distraction – Read, listen to music, watch a movie, write, draw or have a conversation. Do anything that will take your mind off the anxiety. • Thought stopping – When obtrusive negative thoughts begin, visualize a big stop sign and say to yourself “Stop!” Focus on more positive thoughts, such as what you
are looking forward to on the trip.
• Education/planning – Learn as much as possible about where you are going to ease any worries about being unprepared. This applies to flying for the first time as well. Look online or ask friends questions about what to expect and how to prepare.
• Take stock of your strengths – Remind yourself that you have faced many obstacles in life and always manage fine. Remember your support system and access to help. Tell yourself you can handle any situation that arises.
Whatever the cause of travel anxiety, we are not powerless against it. We cannot let our fears interfere with living our lives. Most regret is related to avoidance rather than experience. And no one wants to wake up one day to realize they have possibly missed out on some of the best times of their lives. Vacations are no different than daily lives in that nothing is ever perfect, and the unexpected usually makes the best memories. If your anxiety is interfering with your life and you would like some help gaining control, please call Sanderlin Counseling Services at 318.323.7575 or email at info@sanderlincounselingservices.com.
Revolutionary Technology Hearing Aids and Smart Phone Technology at Audibel the Hearing Center
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UDIBEL THE HEARING CENTER IS EXCITED TO announce that it is one of the first to offer Audibel® A3i™, a Made for iPhone® hearing aid, engineered to be compatible with iPhone, iPad® and iPod touch®. The A3i hearing aid gives the more than 26 million Americans with untreated hearing loss a new, discreet option that seamlessly connects with some of the most popular electronic devices available. A3i combines Audibel’s superior hearing aid technology with iOS to deliver a revolutionary new hearing solution that makes every aspect of life better – from conversations to phone calls to listening to music. It connects with the TruLink™ Hearing Control app, which is available as a free download in the App StoreSM.
Together, A3i and TruLink, when paired with an iOS device, deliver the most personalized hearing experience ever and are designed to: • Stream calls, FaceTime®, music and more from your iPhone directly to your hearing aids through a Bluetooth® connection. • Allow you to use your iPhone to control your hearing aids’ volume and settings. • Personalize sound settings to any environment and geotag that specific memory. • Deliver pristine sound and exceptional listening clarity. • Help you hear comfortably in noise.
In addition to seamless integration with iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, A3i hearing aids are also stand-alone hearing aids packed with Audibel’s best-in-class performance features including feedback cancellation, adaptive noise management and directionality. For more information about A3i and TruLink, visit TruLinkHearing.com.
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WE CAN HELP! A simple hearing test and video otoscopy can answer a lot of questions about your hearing. We will have a consultation about options to get you on the right track to improve your speech understanding and to make listening in group situations less fatiguing and more enjoyable. We will discuss technologies and fitting options to best fit your lifestyle and budget. The sooner we can get you started with your Aural Rehab, the sooner you will start enjoying those soft sounds.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE Our mission is to bring understanding among people through hearing care by focusing on awareness, education, protection and treatment, So the World May Hear! At Audibel The Hearing Center, we care about your well-being and the lives of the less fortunate around the world. As a proud supporter of The Starkey Hearing Foundation’s “So The World May Hear” program, we are changing lives through the gift of hearing. Your support through the purchase of Audibel Instruments and your donation and trade in of any model hearing aids goes to the foundation’s programs to provide hearing instruments to children in the most remote and poverty stricken regions of the world. ABOUT US Audibel The Hearing Center is Northeast Louisiana’s Audibel dispenser. Cherry Phillips “The Hearing Lady” has been serving this area for over 25 years. We offer free hearing screenings, free second opinions, extended warranties and repairs on all makes and brands of hearing aids. You can find out more by visiting our website www.AudibelMonroe.com and you can see more and like us on Facebook.com/AudibelMonroe.
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 17
The Life of a Race Car Driver
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Revoultion Park Introduces Legend Car Driver Jay Davis O YOU EVER WONDER WHERE race car drivers come from? All have a story – for most the passion for racing begins in childhood. Few can claim racing as their day job. Unlike most youthful sports, racing can be a lifelong pursuit. Pit crews consist of husbands and wives, brothers and sisters, children and friends with all pitching in to help. On the track, the competition to win is fierce. In the pit the neighborly atmosphere usually prevails. Drivers share their knowledge, tools and tips readily with one another. One of Revolution Park’s newest Legends Car drivers, car #55, shared his unique story in the pit on Saturday. Jay Davis, a 47year-old aircraft maintenance supervisor for Express Jet in Shreveport, moved to Haughton, Louisiana from Vermont several years ago. He remembers racing as a young man at Bear Ridge Speedway (Vermont) with his dad in the 34 coupe. He was drawn to Legends Car racing initially because the body of the car resembles a 34 coupe. Jay’s dad died of cancer 5 years ago. Jay now shares his hobby with his wife, Renee. Last year the couple was on vacation driving past Revolution Park on I-20, when Renee spied the track and checked it out on Google. They began coming to the track as spectators, particularly enjoying the “meet and greet” that is traditionally held at Revolution Park each event
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night. Before the race starts, fans are allowed to come on to the track. All drivers and their cars line up along the front stretch to sign autographs and talk to the fans. After getting to know some of the drivers, Jay decided to try a Legends Car. “I was surprised to find how affordable the car was.” Jay had met Chris Freeland, owner of Bayou Legends of Bastrop, at the track. Chris has been a valuable source of advice for Jay in getting his car ready for the 2014 season. Jay and his wife credit their newest hobby with providing the incentive to become more fit. “I had gained quite a lot of weight. Over the past year, I have lost about 80 pounds. Forty of those pounds came off after I bought the car.” Jay and his wife follow Weight Watchers. In addition, they have a regimen of walking for exercise. “I am a diabetic. I feel like my doctor is going to be able to take me off insulin at my next appointment.” Jay wants to keep trim in able to better fit in his race and be competitive with the other drivers. Jay has had diabetes for 14 years. “I bought the car as another way to keep the weight off.” Renee admits that she has also trimmed down considerably along with her husband. Jay says “Revolution Park is the best track I have seen since moving to the South. People here are great, and the facility is outstanding. We thoroughly enjoy the activity.” Renee is the sole member of Jay’s
pit crew. She states, “I have learned about parts of the car I never knew existed. I enjoy having the other drivers come and help. It’s a family atmosphere. The Freelands have really been a big help. Jay’s mother is visiting Louisiana from Vermont. Friends from work will be bringing her to the track tonight. I feel certain I am going to hear that these cars go too fast.” RACING SCHEDULE • May 31 – Military Appreciation Night, Season Race #2 (Saturday Night Race) • June 14 – (Saturday Day Race) Frank Foster Concert (Saturday Night Event) • June 28 – Firecracker 50 Event for Late Models, Season Race #3 (Saturday Night Race) • August 9 – Whelen, Law Enforcement and Military Night, Season Race #4 (Saturday Night Race) • August 23 – Season Race #5 (Saturday Night Race) • September 6 – Season Race #6 (Saturday Night Race) • September 19-21 – Night Races
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For the Man with Good Scents. Created with the refined island gentleman in mind, this cologne spray from Tommy Bahama is sophisticated and complex. Find it at Maison Couture Clothiers.
An Eggscelent Gift. Widely acclaimed as the original Americandesigned ceramic cooker, the Big Green Egg is a modern ceramic marvel known for producing amazing culinary results. Find it at Lincoln Outdoor Living. Floor Him With the Perfect Gift. Time to update the man cave? Or grab dad an area rug featuring his favorite sports team from Bob Moss Carpet One Floor and Home. Carpet is available in wall-to-wall or an area rug of your choice.
A Little Spice. Give dad a great gift this Father’s Day with Panola products from Thurman’s Food Factory and Gifts. Wake him up to a spicy Bloody Mary and finish the day with a great steak!
Time for Dad. Jacob & Company watches are works of art. This watch company has been producing luxury watches for a quarter of a century. Find them at Diamond Vault.
Duck, Duck, Goose. These decorative duck decoys are a great gift idea for the outdoorsman in your family. Great for home or the office, this flock can be found at Material Things.
A Sharp Gift. These beautifully etched pocket knives are handmade by William Henry Studios and are available at Hollis & Company. They feature a 6,00010,000 year old fossil mammoth tusk handle inlaid with 24kt. gold. 20 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
Cool it. Every dad loves a good cooler and this canvas one from Muffin Tin is the best. American made by the White Wing Collection, the construction is simple and classic and includes a lifetime guarantee.
Laid Back. The multi-functional Jimmy Collection recliner from Burney’s Trend House will amaze you. The chair includes a chiller function in the cup holder, a massage function, LED lighting panel and an easy reclining position.
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 21
Here and Now
Beatrice Tatem Discusses Savoring the Present
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BY BEATRICE A. TATEM, PH.D., LPC-S, NCC, ACS
AVOR THE HERE AND NOW AND seize the moment” are thoughts I consider when I am about to experience something, someone or a place I anticipate being positive. I am especially aware of the power of savoring the present moment when I have an emotional, psychological or physical experience I enjoy. Whether it is eating a delicious meal, receiving a wonderful massage, making an over due call to a friend, walking down the beach, shopping with friends, sipping on a cup of tea with that special person, taking in the sun, enjoying freshly delivered flowers, watching the sun set and rise or celebrating a momentous occasion, there is power in celebrating the present moment. However, I can become so focused on thoughts of my past and where I want to be in the future I have to remind myself to experience and enjoy the present moment, the here and now and what is transpiring. When was the last time you took the time to savor a moment or an interaction with a person? When did you stop to take the time to live in the present moment? Studies have shown when a person savors something experienced, positive emotions indicative of joy and happiness are felt and fewer symptoms indicative of depression occur. The act of savoring, which is directly tied to happiness, is the ability to slow down to prolong positive emotional experiences. Savoring is learning to enjoy what each moment offers; it is learning to live in the pres-
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ent. When we cultivate moments worth saving, we lessen our focus on the negative in exchange for what is good. Savored positive emotional experiences benefits individuals across the lifespan. Most agree it is important to live in the moment, yet most people think seeking pleasure in of the moment comes naturally. Learning to savor takes time and practice. In psychology, living in the moment is frequently referred to as mindfulness-a state in which intentional attention is given to the present moment. In essence, it is mindful enjoyment of the present experience. When asked, how does one stay in the present moment? It is suggested to stay in the moment one must be fully engaged in the moment. The familiar adage “to look to the sky“ is a message encouraging one to look to the future. Many are guilty of looking so hard to the future, they forget to look to the present. I am learning through my work with others life has a way of unfolding in the present. Too often we miss this unfolding of life stressing about what is to come and ruminating about the past. Inevitably, we allow the present to slip away for failure to seize the moment and failure to observe what is occurring around us. A savored moment can be big or small, it can vary in quantity and quality, and it can occur in any space or place. Moments of challenge, isolation and boredom can be savored. In essence, there are many moments to be experienced and all
moments can be savored. Savoring is a source of joy, pleasure, happiness and meaning which results in a life that is well lived. Savoring promotes awareness and a greater sense of the world in which you live. Embrace the stillness and calmness that can be found in the present moment; avoid the things that distract you from the present moment; observe and become aware of the present moment; slow down and enjoy the things you take for granted in life; attempt to feel the present moment; take the time to truly appreciate activities and events occurring in your life; increase moments of fun and pleasure and take measures to laugh often; anticipate moments worth savoring and be ready to celebrate when they happen; consider reasons to be thankful as this will stimulate feelings of joy. When or where you are, be there totally and experience fully. Savoring moments enhances the chance of enjoying life. Keep in mind that there is no time like the present to take the initiative to create savorous experiences in your life. Savor the present; savor you in the present; savor you. After all, life is like basking in the sun. Soak it up before the sun goes down. For more information about counseling services and outreach programming contact Dr. Tatem at Wellness Initiatives, LLC 1900 North 18 th Street, Suite 414, Monroe La 71201, 318-410-1555 or at btatem.bt@gmail.com.
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Glenwood Emergency Services
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Fast•ER, Bett•ER Emergency Care
T SOME POINT DURING YOUR life, it is very likely that you will be faced with a medical emergency, such as an injury, life threatening illness, potential heart attack or stroke. Whether it’s a broken bone, a deep cut that needs stitching, or something more serious, we’re prepared to take care of your medical needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our board-certified emergency room doctors and nurses are always here to handle a medical crisis with timely, high-quality treatment. We know that all medical emergencies are stressful. Our staff is committed to easing your fears and concerns by providing frequent progress reports about your diagnosis, condition and treatment. Our state-of-the-art, 16-bed Emergency Department includes: • Only fully accredited Cycle IV Chest Pain Center in Northern Louisiana • Private patient triage area • Comfortable treatment rooms • Bedside registration • Fast-track for minor illnesses and injuries • InQuicker online minor emergency registration service • Advanced patient monitoring equipment • STEMI heart protocols “Seeing patients quickly is vital to providing optimal patient care,” said Ron Elder, GRMC CEO. “We are striving to provide a high level of care, while addressing the grow-
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ing problem of long emergency room waits. At Glenwood Regional Medical Center, your emergency is our emergency.”
INQUICKER® InQuicker® is an innovative online service that allows patients to virtually hold their place in line at the emergency room without having to be present. Patients arrive at Glenwood’s ER at their projected treatment time and are seen as quickly as possible. InQuicker estimates treatment times based on the facility conditions. The InQuicker online portal allows patients to be assessed by evaluating their medical symptoms online to see if immediate care is necessary. Those who indicate a life or limb threatening medical condition are prompted to dial 911 or go immediately to the ER. It’s another way that Glenwood is taking busy lives into account and making access for minor medical emergencies faster and more efficient. To schedule an appointment using InQuicker, visit GRMC.com.
FULLY ACCREDITED CYCLE IV CHEST PAIN CENTER When you’re having a heart attack, where you go for treatment could be one of the most critical decisions of your life. Cycle IV accreditation is the highest rating a Chest Pain Care facility can earn. Glenwood earned it by demonstrating expertise and
commitment to quality patient care by meeting or exceeding a wide set of stringent criteria. Glenwood is the only fully accredited Cycle IV Chest Pain Center in Northern Louisiana.
ER STEMI PROTOCOLS A STEMI is the most severe type of heart attack, in which a clot blocks the coronary artery and as a result, the heart muscle being supplied by the affected artery starts to die. Rapid percutaneous intervention (PCI), commonly referred to as angioplasty, is crucial to the survivability of a heart attack. Experts say the sooner that a patient is treated to relieve the blockage causing the STEMI, the better the outcome. The Glenwood ER’s STEMI protocols ensures that patients with chest pain who need advanced care in a cardiac catheterization lab are taken care of as safely and quickly as possible. The STEMI service, along with Glenwood’s state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization labs and Hybrid OR, is designed to save lives. For more information about Glenwood’s emergency services, visit www.grmc.com or call 877-726-WELL (9355).
LOKTAH’s Featured Local Artists Bridging the Gap Between Artistry and Commercial Printing
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EING TWO OF THE LAST STUDENTS TO GRADUATE with a concentration in sculpture from ULM, Ben and Lacy influence one another in many ways, consciously and subconsciously. They each believe that showing together is an important part of the artistic process, since collaborative events are often ones that teach you more about yourself as an artist. They are both influenced by similar artists, work often in the same medium and frequently find that they both work concerning internalization and identity. Close environment, shared peers and shared instructors provide healthy competition and a limited outlet of critical dialogue. In fact, Ben and Lacy often turn to one another for critical dialogue, often disagreeing and confirming the individual creativity of the other. What is perhaps more important than the similarities in their work are the differences. The way each of them process information and view the outside world influences the decisions they make during the creative process. These things all contribute to the ultimate conversation that the work has. Sometimes in this conversation, the work disagrees and is a display of the individual and the individual creating. Ben is a recipient of the Department of Art Award as well as the Beverly Jean Marvin Award for a consecutive two years. He has been featured in the G.U.T Exhibit at LA Tech, The Delta National Small Print Exhibit in Jonesboro, Arkansas, as well as the Upstairs Gallery in Downtown Monroe. Ben is the Secretary of Kappa Pi Delta Alpha International Honorary Art Fraternity. Lacy is a recipient of the Beverly Jean Marvin Award, Best of Show 2014 ULM Student Exhibition, Peoples Choice 2014 ULM Student Exhibition, and Who’s Who at ULM 2013. She is involved in Kappa Pi Delta Alpha International Honorary Art Fraternity and is serving currently as their President. She is also a member of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Pi 26 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
Delta Phi Honorary French Fraternity and Phi Tau Gamma Honorary Foreign Language Fraternity. Ben and Lacy will also be featured in the Downstairs Gallery in a collaborative exhibit titled “A Dialogue.” Be sure to check out LOKTAH’s featured artists in the Downtown Gallery Crawl, June 5, 2014.
LOKTAH’s featured artists not only use LOKTAH’s services, but they are also vital team members to the LOKTAH Production Office. Ben and Lacy both work in the Fine Art Department and reproduce artwork for tens of thousands of professional customers. Some of the products they create daily are our Fine Art Gallery Wraps, Giclee Prints, Framed Artwork, as well as our newly popular Lagniappe Canvases. LOKTAH is known in the photographic and artistic industry as a unique solution for handmade photographic albums, natural packaging solutions and a variation of other products unlike anything in the artist industry. We specialize in using eco-based and green materials found around the world. LOKTAH strives to always serve you, the customer, and make your experience with us positive and effortless. Our website allows you to upload images and submit artwork to produce different solutions for you and your customers. One way artists can more effectively use the website is by signing up for one of LOKTAH’s Pro Accounts, which allows access to pricing, placing orders, etc. LOKTAH services professional artists, designers and photographers only. As the LOKTAH team grows and our line expands, we promise to always uphold the highest quality standards and more than anything, provide you with the best customer service. Please join us on the journey!
The Yoga Barre
Bringing a Distinct Style of Fitness to Northeast Louisiana
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BY MAURIE HOOTON LOFLIN
OPENED THE YOGA BARRE WITH THE HOPE OF BEING able to offer Monroe something they have not experienced before, while still keeping in touch with something local yogis are familiar with. I grew up dancing at Linda Lavender’s School of Dance and joined the Twin City Ballet Company when I was 10 years old. I danced with the Twin City Ballet Company until I graduated from St. Frederick High School in 2006. I attended LSU and before graduation, danced on their competition dance team, the LSU Tiger Girls for two years. They won the National Championship in 2011. Needless to say, dance has always been a part of my life; it was only natural that I open the area’s first and only barre studio. We offer classes in the style of Gentle Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, Xen Strength: Yoga with Weights, Yin Yoga, Barre Fusion and Booty Barre. Booty Barre is a fun, high energy and unique class that fuses fitness techniques from Pilates, dance, yoga, weight training, and calisthenics. Inspired by ballet, Booty Barre is designed to firm, tone and lengthen your muscles without adding any bulk. This class will also improve your balance, posture, body awareness, flexibility and cardiovascular endurance. Booty Barre is an exercise class, not a dance class, therefore, no prior dance experience is required! Barre Fusion is a class that combines ballet barre technique with vinyasa yoga. This slower moving barre class is great for increasing flexibility, building core strength and muscle toning. The practice of yoga has been around for longer than anyone can remember; it is not a trend that will come and go. Our studio wanted to take this ancient practice and add some modern pizzazz by incorporating rock and roll music and even hosting local musicians to play during classes. The multiple styles of yoga we offer are great for all ages, genders, shapes and sizes. Vinyasa yoga is our most popular yoga class; vinyasa means to place in a particular way. The focus in this class is to encourage students to move with their breath, giving as much attention to transitioning through the postures with grace as the postures themselves. This class is appropriate for all levels of experience; multiple variations of 28 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
the poses are offered, so that students can choose what is right for them. Yin yoga is yoga for your bones and joints; it is the balancing class to your regular yoga practice. Yin targets connective tissues, increasing your flexibility and range of motion. In this class you will experience long periods of stillness while holding yoga postures. Yin yoga focuses on the health of your pelvis, hips and lower spine, while challenging you to still your mind. One of the newer classes on our schedule is Xen Strength: Yoga with Weights. Xen Strength combines vinyasa yoga with weight training and cardio bursts-perfect for anyone who may be pressed for time or looking to build strength. Lastly, Gentle Yoga is the most recently added class, and it is the perfect starting point for students who may be a little apprehensive about starting a regular yoga practice. The name says it all! The Yoga Barre has been open since September of 2013. I am a 200 hour Registered Yoga Teacher and the only certified Booty Barre instructor in Monroe as of April 2014. Teacher, Katie Morstead (200 RYT) is the only certified Xen Strength instructor in the area as of April 2014. Our other instructor, Courtney Thibault (500 E-RYT) completed her second yoga teacher training in May. Kristy Finley just joined our staff in May of this year after she completed her 200 RYT under Courtney Thibault. Starting August 5, Courtney will be leading another yoga teacher training here at The Yoga Barre-we could not be more excited! Our team combined has thousands of hours of teaching and continuing education training. The Yoga Barre strives to bring a distinct style of fitness to Northeast Louisiana, as well as give back to our community and promote our local business families. Our goal is not to intimidate class attendees, but to connect with them to meet their fitness needs. We offer a small, more intimate workout setting that feels safe and fun. In addition to our regularly scheduled classes, we offer private lessons in the form of individual or group lessons. Our instructors are friendly and committed to delivering the best classes possible! Our summer schedule starts June 1, so be sure to check out the website or stop by the studio and grab a schedule! We hope to see you soon!
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 29
P. Allen Smith
Bringing the Garden Indoors Through the Seasons Flowers and foliage to plant for cut arrangements year-round. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANE COLCLASURE AND DONNA EVANS
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id you know that gardening is good for your mental health? Research indicates that nature has a positive influence on our psyches and can reduce stress and increase health and happiness.* I know my soul is soothed when I’m surrounded by the great outdoors, even when I’m inside. To me, a room just isn’t alive without something “wild,” so I’m always on the lookout for odds and ends in the garden to bring indoors. I do this year-round, because all four seasons offer something that I can use for arrangements. The keys to having fresh bouquets in any season are an open mind and planning. First, think beyond summer and spring flowers; foliage, berries, interesting stems and even vegetables all give you something to bring inside no matter the temperature. Next, think ahead a season or two for what you what to use and plan accordingly. If you want dahlias in autumn, get the tubers planted in the spring. Here are a few ideas on what you can grow to give you things to bring indoors all year long.
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Winter Violas and pansies are perfect for dainty bouquets on a side table or night stand. Plant these cool-weather bloomers in Fall and early Spring. I like to plant them in large drifts of the same color family. For interesting branches, choose winterflowering shrubs. These cuttings really add life to a house in the chilly months of February and March. The flowers are produced before the leaves come in, making for an arching branch laden with golden yellow flowers. The best time to plant any shrub, including forsythia is Fall. Bring berries inside for a pop of bright red to complement fresh cut greenery in your winter décor. Try growing possumhaw (Ilex decidua), a deciduous species of holly that produces loads of berries. Similarly, the red twig dogwood shrub has deep red bark. In winter after its leaves have fallen off, the wood makes quite the accent to fresh greenery or on its own in a simple vase. Spring A few of my favorite spring cut flowers are spring bulbs, Japanese camellias, peonies and larkspur. Daffodils, tulips and hyacinths are lovely as cut flowers or pot them up in plastic
containers you can slip into a decorative vessel once the blooms start to appear. Spring-flowering bulbs such as these need a cold season, so plant in Fall. Japanese camellias, often called roses of winter, are large evergreen shrubs that bloom spectacularly in Spring. I like to cut the stems short and float camellias in a bowl of water. Peonies feature extravagant, romantic blooms with a light scent. Plant these perennials in Fall. I love larkspurs for adding a tall and spiky element to arrangements. Scatter seeds in Fall or very early Spring for May blooms. Summer Hydrangeas, roses and lilies are Smmer standbys, but don’t forget about foliage and some of the more unusual blooms. Hydrangeas are classic garden shrubs for partially shaded areas in the garden and they make gorgeous bouquets. The secret to keeping the flowers from wilting is alum. Cut the blooms early in the day and immediately put the stems in water. When you get into the house re-cut the stems and dip them in alum before arranging in a vase. Alum keeps the cut from healing over and allows the stem to take up water. Lilies are another showy flower. They garner much attention in the garden or in containers, where they also thrive. Plant the bulbs in Autumn or Spring and choose early, mid and late flowering varieties to extend the blooming season. They work well in both naturalistic and formal arrangements. Their pollen is bad to stain so snip off the stamens before you bring the flowers inside. One of the perks of growing roses is using the flowers indoors, and since there are so many different forms, there is a rose for virtually any garden. You can plant dwarf, climbing, shrub-like varieties, trees and more. Marigolds are easily recognizable with their iconic, vivid flowers. Plant these annuals in beds, containers and the vegetable garden where their scent will help repel insect pests. For something unusual, plant allium ‘Globemaster’ bulbs in Fall for early Summer blooms. The purple baseball-shaped flowers are also suited for drying. Calla lilies are not true lilies, but they make a statement in the garden with their distinctive wrap around bloom. They are annual or perennial depending on your climate. I like foliage as a bouquet filler or alone for a contemporary look. Try hosta leaves and ferns for a monochromatic arrangement or coleus for bright color. Autumn is all about using richly-hued flowers, harvests from the vegetable garden, dried gourds and ornamental grasses. Dahlias really shine this time of year with bold colors that are stunning in arrangements. Plant the tubers in Spring. Goldenrod adds bright yellow spikes of blooms to bouquets and attracts butterflies to your garden. The aster is a quintessential autumn perennial. The sprays of daisy-like blooms work well to fill out arrangements. Sedum ‘Maestro’ features large flower heads of pinkish purple and plum grey foliage and maroon red stalks. For foliage accents inside the home, plant red mustard greens and ferns. Gourds are a Fall must-have, valued for their unique shapes, colors and sizes. An array displayed on a tablescape brings the garden indoors.
P. Allen Smith P. Allen Smith is an award-winning designer, gardening and lifestyle expert and host of two public television programs, Garden Home and Garden to Table, and the syndicated 30-minute show P. Allen Smith’s Garden Style. Smith is one of America's most recognized and respected design experts, providing ideas and inspiration through multiple media venues. He is the author of the best-selling Garden Home series of books. Allen is also very active on social media such as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Learn more at www.pallensmith.com.
Fall
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A Touch of Home
Kilpatrick Funeral Home Renovates Lamy Lane Location
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ILPATRICK FUNERAL HOME ON Lamy Lane in Monroe has provided thousands of families with critical, compassionate service for more than fifty years, with locations in Farmerville, Ruston, West Monroe and, since 1975, on Lamy Lane in Monroe. At the time the Lamy Lane location opened, there was little development in the area, and the city even named an adjacent street Kilpatrick Blvd. in honor of the new location. Over the years, Kilpatrick Funeral Home on Lamy came to be known as a symbol of compassion and care. But when Mother Nature's high winds last December destroyed the facility's roof, triggering flooding inside and damaging much of the interior, Kilpatrick president Laura Kilpatrick Marchelos says the organization saw an opportunity to improve service. They envisioned a more spacious facility that more closely resembled a home than a business. Also, there were certain areas where space could be better utilized for family comfort and care. So, Marchelos and the Kilpatrick staff began to map out revitalization of the 30year-old building, which at just over 10,000 square feet is a large facility. One principle guided her. "When you have to spend three days with our staff and our family, you're going to feel like you're with family," Marchelos said. So Kilpatrick updated the dĂŠcor from its previous 32 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
dark interiors and low lighting to one with more warmtha and comfort. Following in the footsteps of a similar renovation effort of the Ruston location, Kilpatrick also sought to bring the Lamy Lane building up to today's practices. The result is striking. The beautifully redesigned lobby improves flow for both small and large crowds, while the two staterooms have also been enlarged to be more accommodating to families gathered to remember loved ones. Also, the 300-seat chapel was updated to provide a more comfortable, home-like touch. An improved sound system will allow service officiants and musicians to provide a worshipful environment for religious services. "It helps families deal with the grief of lost loved ones if they are in a home environment," Marchelos said. Neutral patterned wallpaper and traditional furnishings provide ample areas to visit, remember loved ones and host those who have come to pay their final respects. In addition to reworking the lobby, Kilpatrick expanded the family lounge, adding a pair of large, granite-topped serving buffets so friends can bring food for the family and loved ones. They also expanded the size of the lounge, increasing to an ample 14-seat capacity for those who wish to enjoy extended visits with family or friends. The lounge features coffee service and a refrigerator for family use. Hardwood floors and new chandeliers
throughout create a warmth and comfort to help families through difficult times, drawing together the entire facility and providing a touch of home, not business. "It gives more of a resemblance to home than to a funeral home," Marchelos said. In addition to the Lamy Lane location, Kilpatrick Funeral Home has facilities in West Monroe, Ruston and Farmerville. The family operates Kilpatrick's Serenity Gardens in West Monroe. For eighty-seven years, Kilpatrick Funeral Homes have provided full-service funeral planning, from traditional burials to cremations and celebrations of life. "We are here to help a family make their loved one's service their own," Marchelos said. The Lamy Lane location held its grand reopening ribbon cutting May 9, and the friendly, skilled staff stands ready to help their clients through those difficult times. Conveniently located in the heart of Monroe, the Lamy Lane location can host up to three visitations simultaneously. The Ruston branch was updated in September to the more homelike feel, and Marchelos said the company has plans to undertake similar renovations in Farmerville at a later date. "It's our sincere hope that the renovation offers a more tranquil, comfortable setting in which our families can say goodbye to their loved one," Marchelos said.
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Glenwood Medical Group Quality Doctors You Expect. Compassionate Care You Deserve.
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LENWOOD MEDICAL GROUP recruits and employs highly qualified and skilled physicians with diverse medical specialties to support Glenwood Regional Medical Center. Working together, we are making a difference in the lives of our patients, our hospital and our community.
GLENWOOD BRAIN AND SPINE Jorge Alvernia, MD Neurosurgery Dr. Alvernia completed a fellowship in brain tumors in Lyon, France. He specializes in brain conditions, nerve disorders and spinal conditions.
GLENWOOD CARDIOVASCULAR AND THORACIC SURGERY Harry Donias, MD Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery Dr. Donias’ services include mitral valve, tricuspid valve and aortic valve repair or replacement, on and off pump coronary artery bypass, proximal aortic and arch pathology, surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation, lung and esophageal cancer, aneurysms, peripheral revascularization and carotid stenosis, as well as minimally invasive and endovascular techniques.
GLENWOOD EAR, NOSE AND THROAT Brent Metts, MD, PhD Ear, Nose and Throat Dr. Metts is one of the few surgeons in the
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nation who are fellowship trained in minimally invasive and endoscopic assisted thyroid and parathyroid surgeries. His services include sinus disease, balloon sinuplasty, thyroid disease, hearing loss, voice care, sleep apnea, throat problems, tonsillitis and ear infections.
GLENWOOD FOOT AND ANKLE Danier D. Anderson, DPM David Gardner, DPM Podiatry Drs. Gardner and Anderson specialize in bunions, hammertoes, flatfoot, Achilles tendonitis, toenail fungus, ingrown toenails, heel pain, neuromas, corns, calluses, warts, deformities, geriatric conditions, diabetic foot conditions and sports injuries of the lower leg and foot. They also provide wound care treatment weekly at Glenwood’s Hyperbaric and Wound Care Center. GLENWOOD GASTROENTEROLOGY Leonel Lacayo, MD Gastroenterology Dr. Lacayo offers a complete range of state-of-the-art clinical services including diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for diseases of the digestive tract, liver and pancreas. GLENWOOD SURGERY ASSOCIATES Frank Sanfiel, MD General Surgery Dr. Sanfiel specializes in hernia repair,
breast surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, skin and soft tissue infections and other common surgical interventions.
Russell T. Lolley, MD General Surgery, Hyperbaric Therapy and Wound Care Dr. Lolley is the Medical Director of Glenwood’s Hyperbaric & Wound Care Center. The Center offers transcutaneous oxygen monitoring, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, wound debridement, specialty wound dressing and skin grafts, compression therapies and diabetic foot care.
GLENWOOD INTERNAL MEDICINE Alyce Adams, MD Internal Medicine and Cardiology Dr. Adams has been a certified Diabetes Educator who specializes in diabetes, hypertension and preventive cardiology. She also offers EKGs, stress tests and echocardiograms. Roland Ponarski, MD Internal Medicine and Primary Care Dr. Ponarski specializes in diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. In addition, he offers routine physical exams and CDL license exams.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 127
Choosing the Capturer Helpful Tips for Deciding on a Photographer for Your Big Day
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BY ANGELA GROCE, UNVEILED RADIANCE PHOTOGRAPHY
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N THE LONG RUN, WE SHAPE OUR LIVES AND WE SHAPE ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility.” Eleanor Roosevelt quoted these words with a supreme knowledge of what power our choices have in our daily lives. Choices are our greatest responsibility and greatest freedom. We make choices everyday from where to eat lunch or what shoes to put on our feet. We put lingering thought into them or decide at the snap of our fingers. Choices are always going to be a part of moments in our days, months and years ahead. One of the best moments in life is finding the person you will spend your life with. Your choice to love someone until death do you part is one of the most influential and important decsions you make in this life. In this decision comes planning an amazing and wonderful wedding. A wedding comes with numerous decisions and choices. It is the mountaintop of decision-making. The colors, the band, the shoes and the dress are only a portion of choices engaged in creating a perfect wedding day. One choice brides encounter is deciding on who will photograph their wedding. Photographs are the essence of capturing the human experience. They allow us to escape back in time to moments we want to remember, cherish and relive again. When it comes to one of the most monumental days in life, deciding who captures those timeless moments can be a heavily weighted decision. So as a bride and groom, one of your choices in a wedding is choosing a photographer, a true capturer of your love. As a wedding and lifestyle photographer, I want to give some valuable advice from behind the camera to future brides in choosing a photographer for your day. The first tip is budget. Quantity does not decide quality. Sometimes cheaper is not always better, neither is the most expensive a guarantee. As a bride, staying within your budget is absolute. When deciding about a photographer, penny pinching on photography, the one thing you keep from your day may prove to be a headache in the long run if the quality 36 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
of your end product does not meet your standards or expectations. The second thing is research. When finding the right photographer making quick choices without thoroughly researching their work may cause a disaster on your day. Brides, make sure you research not just Facebook work, but actual content from previous weddings. As a bride your should request to have recommendations, past galleries of work and even set up a face-to-face meeting with potentials. Picking a photographer should not be a hasty choice. Give yourself resources and time in your researching journey. The third tip is photography style. Just because a certain photographer shot your friends’ wedding, it does not mean their style compliments yours. Discover what you want out of your photographs, and find a photographer who will capture the essence and vision of your day. Do not put expectations on a photographer who shoots vintage and expect classic traditional photographs. Finally, when choosing a photographer, find someone you can relate with on a personal level. A photographer spends the journey of your trip to the aisle spending time helping you decide on engagement locations, a timeline for your day, a place that fits your bridal style etc. They become more than a photographer. They are planners, designers and creators. A photographer relationship is a value more than budget, research or style. The way you connect with the person, who will capture your love and your moments may hold more value than all the other tips in finding your photographer. The photographer sees you as more than just a job, but a relationship. They see your wedding day as not just an event but as a creative canvas to shoot beautiful photographs. They see your story through the light of their lens. When it comes down to it, choices happen everyday. Choices dictate our paths and the places we go. In picking your photographer, decide with these tips in mind. They will capture the greatest moments of your life. We have some amazing photographers in Northeast Louisiana. Find the perfect fit for you, discover a lifelong relationship with a creative artist who will treasure your moments just as much as you do.
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MyChelle offers environmentallysafe, full spectrum UVA/UVB sun defense that offers powerfully effective protection and is non-irritating near the eyes. Find these products at Fiesta Nutrition Center.
This month’s BayouTrends is all about sun and surf. From sunscreen to flip flops, these items from local retailers will make sure your prepared for fun in the sun.
This dress from Bent Oaks Boutique will make a great addition to this season’s wardrobe. We love the bright colors and bold print.
Overnight stays, journeys to the lake or trips to the beach, whatever voyage you’re venturing out into, this bag is ready to send you out in style. Available at Pearl Pumphrey’s.
These cute sandals are perfect for fun in the sun. Find this and more at The Twisted Peacock.
Stylish and functional, these precious beach hats will keep you shaded from the summer heat. Find this and more at Salt & Pepper Accessory Boutique.
Looking for haute shades this summer? Haik Humble Eye Center has a large variety to choose from.
This Seafolly bikini from HerringStone’s is red hot. We love the ruffled detailing along the edges of the top and bottoms. Enjoy your day in the sun with this super-roomy bag. Like all cinda b bags, this one is water-resistant. Available at Haven. 38 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
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d Arender
photo by Bra
ESSENTIALS FROM TOMMY USREY BY RHEAGAN SUTTON
Taking the family to the WWII Museum in New Orleans Visiting the Ogden Museum of Southern Art in NOLA Sitting around the pool enjoying our granddaughters. A trip to the Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park Butterfly House with my Dallas granddaughters A trip to the Jackson Children’s Museum with my Starkville granddaughters A Jack Daniel’s Mint Julep in a frosted silver Julep Cup A good John Grisham book, I’ll be reading Theodore Book: The Activist A brightly colored linen shirt A long weekend in New York to catch new shows that were nominated for Tony Awards. Vegtrug patio gardening to have fresh Cherry Tomatoes for summer salads Nubuck Oxfords or suede shoes Linen and poplin slacks in various colors A Negroni from Nonna A trip to any of Northeast Louisiana’s arts organizations’ exhibitions and performances A cold crisp glass of Cakebread Sauvignon Blanc accompanied by grilled oysters at Sage 40 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 41
ASK ERIN
ummer is fast approaching, and that means it’s time to start prepping for that upcoming beach trip! When it comes to packing for the beach, “minimal” is the word you should live (and pack) by. Admit it…lugging around a heavy, overly-packed bag isn’t fun - not to mention the stress it will cause when you try to get dressed each day. Vacations are supposed to be fun; why shouldn’t the preparation be fun, too? Below are my tips for packing like a pro:
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Preparation is key! Stop cramming your suitcase with pieces of outfits; instead, take the time to create a written list of what you’ll need based on your itinerary. How many dressy outfits will you need? What about casual outfits? How many days will you lie on the beach or sight see? Once you’ve answered the major questions, you can begin choosing clothes that will mix and match to create the perfect outfit for each occasion. You can even go one step further by taking snapshots of each outfit and labeling them according to activity. No thinking - just fun! Finally, give yourself a little leeway by adding an extra outfit or two for anything that may come up unexpectedly. Never underestimate the power of a list! I suggest making a list of the necessities you will need such as sunscreen, toothbrush and toothpaste. Better yet, print the list that’s included with this article or create your own. Pack efficiently! The better organized your suitcase, the more you can pack! Below is a bullet list of tips for packing efficiently: • Compartmentalize by using plastic baggies and zippered pouches for toiletries and other small items, such as your MP3 player and ear buds. • Roll your clothes instead of folding them. A rolled item takes up less space than a folded one; plus it is less likely to wrinkle. • Shoes and other heavy items should be placed along the wheel base, or the bottom of your suitcase, to balance the suitcase’s center of gravity. Use the inside of those shoes for socks and other small items. • Lining the bottom of your suitcase with a plastic bag helps prevent wrinkles, and you’ll have an extra trash bag if needed. • Crushable items should be the last thing placed in the suitcase. • Utilize all built-in compartments for small items like underwear and bathing suits. • If possible, leave one large compartment empty and ready for any soiled or dirty clothing. It is always better to pack clean clothes separately from dirty clothes. • I suggest packing similar items together, such as shirts with shirts, so nothing gets compressed by a heavier object. This is why my first tip of taking quick snapshots of each outfit comes in handy! • Pack most-used items, like MP3 player and ear buds, near the top or in a separate, easy-to-access compartment.
Remember, the fewer items you pack, the fewer you will need to unpack when the trip is over! One way to pack efficiently is to take one or two basic jeans or pants with three or four tops that would work for both dressy and casual occasions. Remember, accessories can transform the simplest of outfits into the most stylish so be sure to pack some statement-making pieces. Have fun!
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Erin Sharplin Love, owner of Panache by Erin, is a Certified Fashion and Image Consultant, Professional Organizer and Certified Wedding Coordinator whose specialties include outfit coordination and closet organization. Love has a knack for helping her fashion clients develop their own personal style, as well as, helping her wedding clients create the wedding of their dreams within their budget and without the stress. To learn more, please go to www.panachebyerin.com.
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 43
OUT OFTHE SPOTLIGHT
Out of the spotlight and in the wings, the actress-playwright is taking on motherhood, Hollywood, a famous spouse and Buster Keaton...all without breaking a sweat. This month’s BayouArtist is Vanessa Perkins. Article by
MICHAEL DEVAULT
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I
f Vanessa Perkins Stewart was unaware of Buster Keaton's legacy prior to about four years ago, that's understandable. After all, the comedian had been dead for more than fifteen years by the time she made her way into the world. The success of recent films like The Artist not withstanding, silent movies aren't exactly in vogue anymore. "I wasn't necessarily a Buster Keaton fan," says Vanessa. "I just didn't know him." That changed, though, one day midway through her courtship with actor French Stewart, a comedian in his own right who had experienced many of the same career highs and lows as Keaton. "When I first met French and we were falling in love, I found out that one of his greatest idols, one of the people he wanted to portray, was Buster Keaton," she says. Vanessa was intrigued. She wanted to get to know French better, to value the things that he valued, and if Keaton were so important to him, she felt she should know something about Keaton, too. So she did what any good student of the dramatic arts would do. She began to research Keaton's life. Buster Keaton's legacy, by most measures, was the prototypical Hollywood powerhouse of the Silent Films era. Like many of his contemporaries, Keaton wrote, produced, directed and starred in his films. Film critic Roger Ebert called Keaton "arguably the greatest actor-director in the history of movies," hardly faint praise for a man who completed the bulk of his work before the Great Depression. Keaton's comedies set the benchmark for technical achievement—there were frequently massive sets, complex stunts and more times than not heavy machinery, such as automobiles, steam engines, even trains—and comedic acting. Some credit Keaton with the successful integration of slapstick humor and physical comedy to movies. Always, though, Keaton maintained the signature, expressionless façade that ultimately led to his nickname: Stone Face. By the end of 1929, though, Keaton's career was finished. He had become as much a victim of the Sound Revolution as he was of his own creations. The world moved on, and it seemed for a time, it was perfectly content to do so without Stone Face. The more Vanessa read, Keaton's story began to make sense to her, especially in light of French's own life so far. "As a writer, I was intrigued because I felt where Buster Keaton was in his life then was sort of where French was," Vanessa says. After all, French Stewart had been 46 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
dons the pork pie hat and signature dead pan expression of Buster Keaton in the publicity still for Stoneface.
FRENCH STEWART
With no script and his age weighing on him, it seemed to French that the chance to play BUSTER KEATON would never come. Vanessa decided to change that, though. Or at least she'd put a hearty LOUISIANA GIRL effort into it. a household name in the 1990s, when he was starring on the NBC hit show 3rd Rock From the Sun alongside John Lithgow and Jane Curtain. Stewart portrayed Harry, one of the four aliens sent to scout Earth ahead of a planned alien invasion. For much of the series, French's "Harry" provided the physical comedy. Watching an episode today, it's easy to see the connection and inspiration French drew from Keaton. It's also mostly impossible not to recognize the striking physical resemblance the two men share. The
similarities and similar acting styles made it plain why French would be a natural to portray Keaton in a biographical project. There was just one problem. Keaton's greatest fame came when the actor was in his twenties, young even by Silver Screen era standards. By the time Vanessa and French became engaged, French was 45. "He felt he was too old to play him," Vanessa says. The matter of a suitable script was another issue all together. No one had sat down to work up the life of Buster Keaton in a dramatic form,
FRENCH & VANESSA
share a lighthearted moment in the California sun where the couple make their home.
though several had tried—including French himself. "I could never figure out how to get to the story," French tells BayouLife, of his interest in Keaton's story. "But I wanted to play my hero." With no script and his age weighing on him, it seemed to French that the chance to play Buster Keaton would never come. Vanessa decided to change that, though. Or at least she'd put a hearty Louisiana girl effort into it. Shortly before they were married, Vanessa sat down at the keyboard and began to write. She stole moments away to tinker with scenes, to conduct covert research. All the while, she kept her project secret from her fiancé not because she wanted to surprise him, but because she was afraid of what might happen. Vanessa was hedging her bets. "I didn't want to insult his hero," Vanessa says. "If it was good, I decided I would give it to him. If it wasn't I wouldn't say anything." French's 46th birthday was just around the corner, and Vanessa took that up as her deadline. She was working in Hollywood, acting, working in various levels of production, and had even done some writing. But she was still a working girl, so money was an object. So for French's birthday, she booked a hotel room in Long Beach, took her fiancé, and then presented him with the script. "I said, 'I can give you my mind and my heart, but I can't afford to give you a whole lot else'," Vanessa recalls. Together, she and French sat on the sofa in their beachside hotel room and read the script. "It was the thing I wanted most," French says. "It was the most beautiful gift you could give a person. She just handed me something she'd been working on for six months." And, according to French, Vanessa's play was "everything he wanted and needed." Vanessa cut right to the heart of the story, to the
place that meant the most to French's life in that moment, and the story came alive. "It was probably the most personal thing that anybody could give me. Once I read it, it just felt like she'd fixed my problem." A few months later, Stoneface premiered at a tiny theatre in Los Angeles. At just 99 seats, the house was tiny. But Vanessa credits the production with opening doors. "It gave us the right exposure we needed. Everybody came out to see it. We got great reviews and people came out to see it for months." Stoneface is hardly her only writing endeavor, and Louisiana is never far from her mind. She's actively engaged in pitching a television series about New Orleans's Storyville community to cable networks. That endeavor finds Vanessa partnering with producer-director Taylor Hackford, who keeps a home in New Orleans with his wife, Helen Mirren. "We start pitching at the end of May," Vanessa says. She likens Storyville to Boardwalk Empire, and says with a little luck, the show could enter production pretty quickly. "It depends on how excited the network is and how much they believe in us." In late June, Stoneface will open at the Pasadena Playhouse, a 700-seat powerhouse of West Coast theatre that has sent more than a few Tony Award-winning plays and musicals to Broadway. Last year's Tony-nominated A Night With Janis Joplin is just one play that's made its way from the Pasadena Playhouse to New York. The Stewart-Stewart production of Stoneface is set for a four-week engagement with an option for an additional two weeks. Then? Vanessa's hopeful. "We're looking to move to New York after this," she says. "We're trying to get the horses lined up and the ducks in a row." There's reason for her optimism, too. The
producers attached to Stoneface have an existing relationship with the Manhattan Theatre Club, and they're excited about the possibilities for the play. "It's not a Waiting for Guffman kind of optimism. It's a realistic possibility," she says, referring to the Christopher Guest comedy about a troupe of community theatre actors from Missouri. Her community theatre roots have never been far from Vanessa's heart. When she and French travel to Monroe, they visit Strauss and the kids there, take part in frequent YoungTroupe reunions, and even find time for breakfast with her old director, Cathy Webb. Webb says she's not surprised that Vanessa has come so far in the world of show business. She's watched Vanessa's career with optimism, amusement and pride ever since she met Vanessa as a girl. "She was six or seven, and it was 1985," says Webb. "She was a very tiny little one." Vanessa was part of the cast of Magic Theatre a children's ensemble show, where she took part in a segment called "The World of Yellow." Webb recalls first meeting Vanessa. "I really just have this image of looking down at her and thinking 'Now this one has determination!' More acting followed, then came musicals and, eventually, the first true love of Vanessa's theatre life—Shakespeare. Vanessa credits a trip to the Alabama Shakespeare Festival with awakening her love of classical theatre, her first exposure to professional theatre. She decided then she wanted to be an actress. "It made me want to be in the world more," Vanessa says of the trip. She went on to play Juliet in a YoungTroupe production of Romeo and Juliet, before eventually attending the Oxford School of Drama in England, where she was roommates with Busy Philips and attended classes with Zach Knighton, who would go on to star in Happy Endings. Acting was her first love, she fell into writing, but now with the arrival of their first child, Vanessa is returning her attention to performance, which she's never strayed too far from. While she was pregnant, Vanessa shot the film The List, starring Almost Famous's Patrick Fugit and Doctor Who's Karen Gillian. She also is pursuing several other opportunities to appear on screen, though it's too soon to reveal those, she says. Meanwhile, she has a major champion in her husband, and a tremendous opportunity with Stoneface. "We're very proud of the show," says French. "And I'm very proud of my wife." JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 47
Myers ~ Stringer Brittany Layne Stringer and Justin Nolan Myers were married at ten o’clock in the morning on Saturday, October 26, 2013 in an intimate, private ceremony in the sanctuary of McGuire United Methodist Church in West Monroe, Louisiana. The double-ring ceremony was officiated by Reverend Scott Adams, senior pastor at McGuire. Mrs. Biddy Norris and Ms. Suzy Seeber provided lovely instrumental music on the piano and guitar for the ceremony. Brittany is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Gary Layne Stringer of West Monroe. She is the granddaughter of Ms. Verla Stringer and the late Gerald Stringer of West Monroe and the late Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Roark of Jena, Louisiana. Justin is the son of Ms. Holly Nolan and Mr. John Myers, both of West Monroe. He is the grandson of Dr. and Mrs. Harry Miller of Col-
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lierville, Tennessee and the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Myers of Atlanta, Georgia. The bride was given in marriage by her parents and was escorted by her father, Dr. Gary Stringer. The bride wore a vintage knee-length, ivory silk dress with lace cap sleeves. Brittany wore antique jewelry provided by her childhood and close friend, Mrs. Megan Tyson Broussard. On November 29, 2013, a reception was given for the bride and groom at Aubrey Hall in Monroe. Guests enjoyed a delectable dinner catered by close friends, the Hearn Family, owners of Catfish Cabin Restaurant of Monroe. The couple and guests danced to a wide repertoire of music selected from the couple’s playlist. The stately and charming Aubrey Hall in downtown Monroe was adorned extensively with
white lights for the reception as well as candles and fuchsia flowers strategically placed in the windows. The tables were covered in black linens and elegant black and white lustrous damask table runners. Chairs were veiled in classic white linen covers with large, black bows on the back. Candles and fuchsia flower arrangements embellished each table and were created by Ms. Terri Tyson, Ms. Suzanne Lay and Ms. Vikki Mixon. Mr. George Opser of Memphis, Tennessee provided stunning wall decorations. Close friends of the bride, Mrs. Megan Tyson Broussard and Mr. and Mrs. Dustin Ratcliff also assisted with the decorating of Aubrey Hall. The event will be etched in the minds of the couple and attendees by the breathtaking and exceptional photography of Ms. Morgan Tucker of Jolly Tucker Photography.
Brittany received her BA in Speech Communication and MA in Communication Studies from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. She also received her Graduate Diploma in Comparative Law and a Juris Doctor of Law from the Paul Hebert School of Law at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. Justin received a BA in Political Science from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. He also received his Graduate Diploma in Comparative Law and a Juris Doctor of Law from the Paul Hebert School of Law at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. Both of them graduated law school as members of the Order of the Coif. Brittany and Justin presently reside in Shreveport, Louisiana and are both Associates for Ayers, Warren, Shelton, and Williams Law Firm in Shreveport.
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 49
Night Time is the Right Time by Kenny Covington
heart stopping explosion. This is another way to catch a better sized fish, but it is better suited for nights when the wind is at a minimum. I throw a black buzzbait at night 95% of the time.
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hen I was in
college, during the summer months of the year, I probably spent more time fishing at night on Bayou DeSiard than I did participating in my college classes. Night time bass fishing is a good way to escape the hustle and bustle of chaotic times on our summer waterways and while it does require some trial and error, it’s a fun way to catch bass..
Some of our local waters that have proven to be very good night fishing venues include, Lake Darbonne, Lake Claiborne, Caney Lake, Bayou DeSiard, Bayou Bartholomew and Lake Bruin. I am sure there are others that I did not mention so keep an open mind on the possibilities on our local waters. My favorite lures for night time bass fishing are surely not secretive as they have been catching bass at night for as long as I can remember. While there can be subtle changes to each of the following, the basic concept of each will generally work fine. My five favorite night time baits are: • Single Bladed Spinnerbait • Buzzbait • Texas rigged soft plastics • Crankbait Each lure has a specific application, but if
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you notice, all five choices will cover a different spectrum of the water column in a different capacity.
Single Bladed Spinnerbait This lure is arguably the best lure to use at night for quality fish. However, the spinnerbait allows you to not just target a bigger fish, it will also allow you to cover water and find concentrations of fish that you can locate with a spinnerbait first and catch them with a Texas rigged worm later. Standard sizes on night time spinnerbaits are 3/8 or ½ ounce models with blade sizes ranging from #4, #5 or #6 Colorado versions. Many people believe that blade color is important but I think blade color should be based more on water clarity than anything else. In clear water lakes such as Caney, I have better luck throwing a silver blade. In stained water applications, I like gold. Don’t get caught up on bait colors. I like a black skirt with a white trailer when throwing a silver blade or black skirt with a chartreuse trailer when throwing the gold blade.
Buzzbait While this is another really good big bass and search bait, where the buzzbait differs from the spinnerbait is that it will allow you to fish thicker submerged vegetation areas much more effectively. The key to fishing a buzzbait at night is you want to run the bait just slow enough where you can hear the blade churn the water. The strike can be anything from a bass quietly taking the lure from the top of the water to a
Texas Rigged Soft Plastics Of all the night fishing lures we will discuss, a Texas rigged soft plastic is probably the most versatile. Depending strictly on slip sinker sizes you can slowly drag it along the bottom, swim it over a grass bed or slowly swim it at a middepth range. Creature baits such as a Zoom Brush hog or craw worms are good choices as well as 10 inch plastic worms. Always choose darker colors such as black neon, tequila sunrise or a standard black/blue. An all-time favorite is a black blue pincher craw worm. Correctly fishing soft plastics at night will take some getting used to. Sometimes the strikes can be hard to detect. A bass can hit a soft plastic lure and move towards you without giving any indication, so paying attention to what your lure is doing at all times is critical. Crankbait This technique is most effective on lakes that have lighted boat houses and piers. Lake Bruin is a perfect example. Fishermen throw everything from shad patterns to solid black shades and color schemes with equal success. What they are probably overlooking is their casting angle. Like deer, bass are creatures that love the edge of anything. A shadow edge created by a light on or around a pier is a likely area for feeding bass. Try numerous casting angles until you find the one that is most productive. Patience and timing are the key elements when fishing this particular technique. The initial pass through an area may be fruitless, but a return check an hour or so later can bring gold. Another aspect of this technique is that it isn’t limited to just bass. Stripers, white perch, and catfish will surprise you and strike a steadily retrieved crankbait at night. I hope these tips will allow you to put more fish in your livewell this summer. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try some different things while out on the water, remember, catching fish many times is simply a matter of trial and error. Be careful on the water and catch one for me! See you next month!
BY ANGELA GENUSA
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fter the kids get done with all the summer camp fun, they’re gonna be hungry. Here are some deals on meals almost every day of the week that will make parents happy campers, too. (Be sure to call participating restaurants to confirm details.)
MONDAY
O'Charley's 4101 Pecanland Mall Drive Monroe, LA 71203 (318) 651-2034 One kid eats free per adult meal purchase. Ages 10 and younger. All day. Not valid on to go orders. Magic Grill 2500 Arkansas Road West Monroe, LA (318) 396-1603 One free kid's meal per adult meal purchase. 12 and younger. The Pickle Barrel Restaurant & Deli 1827 Avenue of America Monroe, LA (318) 325-5996 After 6 p.m., one kid age 7 and younger eats free per adult meal purchase.
TUESDAY
O'Charley's 4101 Pecanland Mall Drive Monroe, LA (318) 651-2034 One kid age 10 and younger eats free per adult meal purchase (all day). Not valid on to go orders. PieWorks 2252 Tower Drive Monroe, LA (318) 387-1044 5-10 p.m.: one kid eats free per 52 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
adult meal purchase. Dine-in only. 12 and younger.
Peking Chinese Restaurant 412 Thomas Road West Monroe, LA (318) 329-8003 After 4 p.m., kid’s meals are only 99 cents with every adult meal purchase.
Pizza Hut 1301 Lamy Lane Monroe, LA (318) 345-1000 Kids (3 and younger) eat free at Pizza Hut every day on the lunch buffet. 10 and younger one meal per adult.
WEDNESDAY
Sports City Grill 2105 N. 7th Street West Monroe, LA (318) 387-1700 Two kids (12 and younger) eat free per adult meal purchase.
THURSDAY
El Chico Café 226 Blanchard Street West Monroe, LA (318) 322-8500 All day: kids’ meals are only 99 cents with adult entree purchase.
Captain D's (all Monroe-W. Monroe locations) 1800 North 18th Street Monroe, LA
1806 US Hwy. 165-S, Monroe, LA 107 Thomas Road West Monroe, LA Get 2 free kid's meals with any adult entree purchase at regular price (dine-in only). Piccadilly 2203 Louisville Ave. Monroe, LA (318) 325-5414 Kids 12 and younger eat for 99 cents. The kid’s meals at Piccadilly includes an entree (chicken tenders, corn dogs, hot pockets, chicken or fish), two sides, Jell-O or pudding or a cupcake and kid’s drinks.
SATURDAY
Piccadilly 2203 Louisville Ave, Monroe, LA (318) 325-5414 Kids 12 and younger eat for 99 cents. The kid’s meals at Piccadilly includes an entree (chicken tenders, corn dogs, hot pockets, chicken or fish), two sides, Jell-O or pudding or a cupcake and kid’s drinks.
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HerringStone’s 25th Anniversary
On April 1st, HerringStone’s celebrated their 25th anniversary with a party hosted by owner’s Debbie Herrington and Cindy Stone. Loyal customers and friends gathered at the Forsythe location to show their support. Among those in the crowd were Sandra and G.G. Shinn, Hannah and Heather Hayes, Bonnie and Madeline Brister, Peggy Lockheart, Amanda Bennett, Shery Pope, Lilli and Heidi Hilton, Mary and Lisa Nelson, Kim and Tom Lolley, Jan Mason, Blake Herrington, Diane Miletello, Karen McDuffee, current and former employees and many more. A delicious spread was catered by Sports City Grill and perfomances by Lisa Spann, Rod Allen Payne and G.G. Shinn commemorated the occasion.
On the BayouScene
1 Debbie Herrington and Cindy Stone 2 G.G. and Sandra Shinn 3 Merion and Matt Sanderson 4 Lisa Spann and Rod Allen Payne 5 Hannah and Heather Hayes 6 Emily and Sandra Hedgewood
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Downtown Gallery Crawl Celebrate Art at the Downtown Gallery Crawl on Thursday, June 5, 2014 4
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EATURING TEN GALLERIES WITH FINE art, good music, food and drink, Downtown Monroe and West Monroe will celebrate ART on Thursday, June 5, from 5 to 9 p.m. All are invited to “crawl” from one gallery to another, enjoying the architectural jewels of these two cities on the river while visiting with neighbors and having the opportunity to see (maybe even buy!) works by talented local and regional artists. Getting around from Monroe to West Monroe and back again is no problem as the trolley will be running—and it will be free! The Antique Alley Association merchants in downtown West Monroe are hosting an Antique Alley Art Tour, with shops along Trenton Street staying open after hours, hosting artists in conjunction with the Crawl. The Ouachita River Art Gallery (aka The River Gallery), a cooperative gallery with 26 active members, regularly participates in the Crawl, but this time some of its artists will be showing in some of the shops. Musicians will play in several of the shops. For more information on the Art Tour, call the River Gallery at 318-322-2380. Melanie Fitzgerald Douthit, the June featured artist at the River Gallery, grew up in Union Parish. She loved drawing as a child and started painting at the age of 19, beginning her creative endeavors with watercolor, charcoal, pen and ink, acrylic and mixed media. Douthit’s Mardi Gras Dachshund paintings hang in Mimi’s Café locations all over the country, and she often does commissioned creations including French Quarter scenes, whimsical “wordy birdz,” florals and mixed media pieces. Sugar Gallery (on Art Alley in Monroe) will be filled wall to wall with new pieces from its seven artists: Stacy Medaries’ unique aluminum and alco-
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MAD Gallery: Enoch “Doyle” Jeter DOWNSTAIRS Gallery: Lacy Mitcham Sugar Gallery: Leah Smith Reitzell UPSTAIRS gallery: Julie Crew UPSTAIRS gallery: Christen Parker Palace Gallery: Jonathan Edelhuber The River Gallery: Melanie Douthit DOWNSTAIRS: Ben Bennett Sugar Gallery: Stacy Medaries
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hol ink art; Leah Smith Reitzell’s acrylic paintings; award-winning photography by Burg Ransom; Mary Thompson’s oil paintings; beautiful jewelry creations by Dianne Rosenberg and mixed media by Scott Stone. The Palace Gallery (DeSiard Street) proudly presents Jonathan Edelhuber, who was born and educated in Arkansas. After graduating with a BFA, he left for Nashville, where he currently lives and paints in his own unique way. Livaudais Studio is located at 122 South Grand Street, just south of DeSiard Street near the Endom Bridge. Owners Joli Livaudais and Jason Grisham are proud to present talented photographer Mandy Tran during the Downtown Gallery Crawl. Tran, a student of Photography and Design at the Art Institute of Portland, will give an artist talk at 6 p.m., followed by Q & A with attendees. Beginning as a commercial photographer’s assistant, Tran eventually worked on a stop-motion animated movie, Coraline. Tran’s work is a study of texture and light and explores the relationship between man and nature. DOWNSTAIRS, Julie Pearson’s gallery on Art Alley, presents A DIALOGUE: New Works by Lacy Mitcham and Ben Bennett, with the opening reception during the Gallery Crawl and artist talks at 7:30 p.m. Exhibiting their work together is an important part of the artistic process for Lacy and Ben. Two of the last students to graduate with a concentration in sculpture from ULM, they influence each other, saying "We are both influenced by similar artists, work often in the same medium, and often find that we both work concerning internalization and identity.” The Big Room and UPSTAIRS galleries (Art Alley) will feature the Convention and Visitors’ Bu-
9 reau’s annual photography contest, with photos taken in the local area. There will also be photography by Morgan Kee, a Louisiana Tech student; photography and poetry by Donita Bright, formerly of New Orleans; paintings by Julie Crew and Leigh Ann Buffington; and digital work by LA Tech student Ashley Sellers. Resident artists include Rick Sikes, Christen Parker, Victoria Smith, Jon Aiken and Emily Caldwell. At MAD Art Gallery, also on Art Alley in Monroe, musical and visual art will come together with live music by Grey Matter along with lithographs picturing the Beatles by Enoch “Doyle” Jeter. Jeter is a printmaking instructor and artist in residence at ULM. The 14 lithographs in this exhibition are magical illustrations for a new book by Jude Southerland Kessler, the author of the John Lennon Series. Jeter’s lithographs will bring the songs of the Beatles to life for the viewers. Finally, Luna Blue Yoga Studio and Gallery on DeSiard Street is owned by Kim Batteford and curated by Kelsea McCrary. This new gallery will be showing new art, along with Arender Studio and Gallery, owned by photographer Brad Arender and located on Art Alley. Presenting sponsor Creed and Creed Law Offices joins together with several other sponsors to help this bimonthly event come to pass. Sponsors include Bancorp South, Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, Sir Speedy, Northeast Louisiana Arts Council, The News-Star, KEDM Public Radio, the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Delta Syle, Restaurant Cotton, Atmos Energy, Heck Law Firm, Rawls DeSigns, Community Trust Bank, Cross Keys Bank, Hollis and Company Jewelers, Marsala Beverage, Lavalle Salomon Law Offices, and Charles Kincade Law Offices.
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Transforming Lives at LCWLS
Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery Patient Lacy Davis Tells Her Story
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ACY DAVIS HAS LOST 113 POUNDS SINCE UNDERGOING gastric sleeve surgery in April 2013 at Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery. Prior to Lacy’s procedure, Lacy had gained 200 pounds during the past 14 years due to emotional eating. Today, she describes herself with one word: Confident. Eating was my private addiction. After having a child and battling post-partum depression, the eating and weight-gain snowballed. I was embarrassed to eat in front of anyone, and I was even more embarrassed of my appearance. After visiting a fertility specialist and hearing my weight said out loud, I realized my mortality. I was scared of dying and leaving my family behind, most importantly my son and my husband. Our priorities changed that day. Instead of deciding which options were best to get pregnant again, I was researching options for weight loss surgery. Through the depression, anxiety, shame, hopelessness and fear, I was finally feeling hope and determination. I chose Dr. Sartor, because I had worked with him in a medical setting. I witnessed his care and concern for others in the way he treated his patients and his staff. I felt completely comfortable in putting my health in Dr. Sartor's hands. My energy and confidence has increased exponentially. I went camping and hiking with my son and his Cub Scout group and participated in all of their activities— something I would have never even considered prior to the surgery. Now, I can do things most people take for granted, like crossing my legs or sitting in a restaurant booth. I can play laser tag and shop with my mom and mother-in-law. I never grow tired of feeling my husband's arms wrap around me or pulling me close for a slow-dance. One of the great things about the surgery is that in addition to my appetite being virtually non-existent, I don't get the same pleasure from eating large portions of food. Overeating causes discomfort. You become more aware of each bite and what you can and cannot eat. Bariatric surgery is a commitment and a life-style change. It is a tool to help you achieve something wonderful. My husband has said it has changed all of our lives for the better. Because I have to eat healthier and make better decisions in meal preparation, our whole family has become healthier and lost weight. I think one of the moments I felt the most proud of myself was getting onto a roller coaster for the first time since I was a teenager and buckling the seat belt. As much as I enjoyed that roller coaster ride, it wasn't nearly as exciting as buckling that seat belt. Medications can only help depression and anxiety so much, and I was at a point where it wasn't enough. Having the surgery has been a confidence booster for which no medication can compete. I am more outgoing now, and I don't have those overwhelming feelings of anxiety over meeting new people. When the anxiety began to disappear, so did much of the depression. The dark clouds cleared, and I can see the sunshine again. LCWLS is a partnership between Dr. Walter Sartor, P&S Surgical Hospital and St. Francis Medical Center. Like us at www.facebook.com/LCWLS, and call us today at 1-866-821-LIVE.
Losing Teeth as Adults The Benefits of Dental Implants BY DAVID FINLEY, D.D.S
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Before
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HEN WE LOSE TEETH AS ADULTS, OUR PRIMARY concern is the annoyance of having to contend with a gap in our bite. We do not realize that there are far greater concerns than difficulties biting and chewing. Bone, like all living tissue, must work to remain healthy and strong. When teeth are removed, the bone that held them in becomes weak and begins to erode away. Bridges and dentures do fill the gaps, but they do nothing to stop bone loss. Once again science has provided the answer – dental implants. For most people, losing a tooth is traumatic and replacing it is imperative, not only for healthy self-esteem, but to avoid facial and speech changes that take place over time, like jawbone recession and the look of collapsed cheeks. Dental implants are the treatment of choice to replace missing teeth for a completely natural-looking smile. Here are a few benefits to having dental implants: • Implants require normal brushing and flossing for maintenance • Preserve and strengthen the underlying bone just like the roots of natural teeth • Do not alter or compromise adjacent healthy teeth • Can replace the form and function of only one tooth or two, or can replace teeth in an entire jaw • Can anchor dentures to prevent shifting or replace partial dentures and bridgework • Are safe and reliable • Look completely natural – no one will know you have them = unless you tell!
We are excited to announce that Dr. Finley is eager to offer this procedure for you. Whether you require a single implant or a fullmouth restoration, we are available at your convenience. Please let family and friends know that they have a whole new reason to smile. They can book their implant consultation with Dr. Finley today!
Office hours are Monday through Thursday 8-5 and Friday 8-2. Bayou Dental Group is located at 901 North 3rd Street in Monroe. Find us on Facebook and Instagram. JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 59
Dress to Impress with The Spotted Giraffe
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Kids’ Wear, Toys, Puzzles, Gifts and More for the Litte Ones in Your Life HE SPOTTED GIRAFFE, A a premier children’s boutique, located at 1826 Forsythe Avenue in Monroe has had a makeover to get ready for summer! Stop by and see their new look and layout of the store. Nestled in the convenient Northgate shopping center, they feature a selection of baby and children’s clothes that can’t be beat. Owner Erin Weaver makes sure to stay up-todate on the latest styles and lines to keep your children looking stylish from day to night. The Spotted Giraffe keeps in stock everything from pajamas to casual clothing to church outfits, shoes, accessories, luggage and so much more. In addition to kids’ wear The Spotted Giraffe offers a vast array of toys, puzzles and
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gifts for any occasion. Do you need a present for a party or a baby shower? You’re sure to find a gift any child will adore at The Spotted Giraffe. The staff prides themselves on offering the best customer service they can possibly offer. They have a great baby registry for moms-to-be featuring newborn attire and sweet gifts that range from the hottest new styles for baby to old favorites. Summer is just around the corner and The Spotted Giraffe has everything you need to get beach-ready. In addition to having the cutest bathing suits around, they also offer a large selection of beach toys, towels and summer essentials. The school year is coming to a close and it’s time for all those summer parties and gettogethers. Make sure your kiddos are dressed
to impress for all those picnics and play dates. Are you expecting a little bundle of joy? The Spotted Giraffe offers a convenient baby registry with the sweetest gifts for newborns. Follow The Spotted Giraffe on Facebook to stay up to date on sales and specials throughout the year. And don’t forget the Spotted Giraffe has lines that you know and love such as Bailey Boys, Under Armour, Melissa and Doug, Petunia Pickle Bottom, Petit Ami, Mint, Yosi Samra, Trunk and more! 1826 Forsythe Avenue Monroe, LA 318-855-3643 Find them on Facebook!
Treating Reflux in Babies
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GI Peds Provides Tips and Solutions to Help Your Child ASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX (GER) occurs during or after a meal when your baby’s stomach contents go back into the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. GER occurs often in normal infants. Most infants with GER are happy and healthy even though they may spit up often. Spitting up tends to peak at four months and usually tapers off around one year of age. If your baby is spitting up without discomfort and is making appropriate weight gains, it is probably nothing to worry about, but there are some things you can do to reduce this occurrence. Avoid Overfeeding Many parents feel the need to feed their baby immediately after spitting up because it seems as though he hasn’t digested a full
meal. Don’t do this; wait until the next scheduled feeding time to feed your baby. Also, consult with your doctor to ensure your baby is nursing the appropriate amount of time or taking the right amount of formula. Thicken Formula For formula-fed infants, thickening the formula has been shown to reduce the amount that a baby spits up. Add one teaspoon of rice cereal per one ounce of formula. • Pinch the top of the nipple between the thumb and forefinger. • Make a small slit in the top of the nipple with the corner of a sterile razor blade. The blade allows for accurate cutting and prevents shredding the nipple. • Start with a small slit and enlarge as needed
until the formula is flowing easily. • Other Things You Can Do • Keep infant upright for 20-30 minutes after a meal. • Avoid tight diapers and elastic waistbands. • Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke. • Try burping baby more frequently; 2-3 times during a meal. • Try offering smaller, more frequent meals.
If you feel your child is not gaining weight appropriately, bring him or her in to GI Peds and we will evaluate your child’s condition. Contact GI Peds for an appointment today. We can help provide solutions to treat the symptoms of your child’s reflux.
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Technology That Enhances Our Lives
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Digital Dentistry at Amazing Smiles in West Monroe OMPUTERS AND TECHNOLOGY are everywhere. The modern dental office is no exception; in fact, one of the most technologically advanced places you can visit is a modern general dentist’s office. From check-in to checkout, a paperless modern dental office is wired (or not) for the future. Not just accounting, scheduling and insurance management (which is a lot), but the deliveries of dental care more technologically savvy and advancing constantly. Digital Radiography is more accurate and exposes patients to far less x-ray radiation than film systems. A modern Panoramic Radiograph is equivalent to about 2 minutes of cell phone use. Three dimensional computed tomography is available that can aid
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BEFORE
the doctor in diagnosis and treatment of a variety of dental conditions, included the production of surgical guides that make dental implant placement more precise. Digital Extra-oral and Intra-oral cameras allow the doctor to show you exactly what the condition of your teeth and gum are so you can make a more informed decision regarding your treatments options. Dental CAD/CAM systems allow patients to receive beautiful all porcelain crowns, veneers, bridges and other types of restorations in a single visit. Digitally produced (3D printed) plastic aligners can straighten teeth (InvisAlign). Systems are available that allow the doctor to obtain a small sample of blood prior to dental surgery and then extract the patient’s
AFTER
own stem cells and platelets to aid in surgical healing. Digital hand pieces provide safer and more predictable root canal treatment. Education systems provide animated explanations of the procedures being performed, so that patients are well informed about their procedure and postoperative care. Modern dentistry is amazing in its scope and embracement of technology, to bring you the best oral care available. The point of all the technology is to help restore your mouth to function and beauty and, of course, to help keep and maintain your smile for a lifetime.
Swimming Safety
Preventing Swimming Accidents This Summer
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BY DEBORAH S. BLANSON, NURSE PRACTITIONER
UMMER IS A PERFECT TIME TO relax and enjoy water sports with family and friends. Swimming is one of the most popular recreational activities yet is a leading cause of unintentional death among children ages one to four and the fifth leading cause of unintentional death among people of all ages. Each year, approximately 4,000 children drown. Males are more likely to die from drowning than females; and the rate for ethnic minorities is triple that of other races (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2012). Another 16,000 children receive treatment at an emergency department for nonfatal drowning-related injuries (National Traffic Safety Institute, 2012). Approximately 50% of these nonfatal injuries result in brain damage leading to memory deficits, learning disabilities and permanent loss of basic functions (CDC). Residential pools pose the greatest risk for drowning and submersion injuries.
Swimming accidents can be prevented. It is important to make water safety a priority. The most effective strategies to prevent drowning include four-sided fencing, professional swimming lessons, life jackets, constant supervision, knowing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and keeping emergency equipment, for example ropes and poles, readily accessible. The optimum strategy is to combine several measures to minimize drowning risk (CDC, 2013). The American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury (2009) recommends professional swimming lessons as early as one year; this can reduce submersion injuries by 88% among children ages one through four years. Young children can benefit from wearing properly fitting life jackets. Air-filled devices such as water wings, noodles and inner tubes are not designed for safety and should not be used (CDC, 2013).
Drowning happens quickly and silently. Telephone conversations, texting, Facebooking, talking to neighbors and reading are major distractors that increase the chances of children experiencing submersion injuries or death. While in the pool, children should always be kept at arm’s length even if the child can swim. A four-sided, four feet high fence with selfclosing and self-locking gates with alarms that open outward can significantly decrease the risk of accidental drowning (CDC, 2013). CPR improves drowning outcomes. While lifeguards enhance the safety of swimmers, often bystanders and other swimmers are the first to notice someone is in danger of drowning. Time is critical. Do not wait for paramedics to arrive; immediate initiation of CPR reduces the risk of brain damage. Swimming is an excellent recreational activity, but it is important to know and adhere to water safety at all times (CDC, 2013). Deborah S. Blanson is a nurse practitioner and manager of St. Francis Clinic, an urgent care clinic, located at 920 Oliver Road, Suite 1600B in Monroe. St. Francis Clinic treats minor emergencies and illnesses. The clinic offers extended evening and weekend hours: Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 7:30 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., and Sunday: noon – 5:30 p.m.
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 63
BayouOutdoors
ChadW. Powell,USMC KIA: Fallujah, Iraq 23 June 2005 article by Dan Chason
very father dreads the day that his daughter finds the man of her dreams and moves on with her life. I am and was no different. My daughter, Danielle is an exceptional woman. To understand how exceptional, I will divulge some things that have been withheld for many years. I liked Chad Powell from the first time I met him. He was my son's best friend and lived in close proximity to my home in West Monroe. Chad and my son Andy were two peas in a pod. Whether it was hunting or fishing, these two guys spent many an hour chasing critters. Chad soon took to filming our show as that was what Andy was doing. He learned to operate a camera and soon joined us on road trips to places like Lake Fork. I remember one summer where they were feeling their oats. Both of them were about 16 years old and decided that they were big enough to take off in a bass boat and trail me and my fishing partner on a day's venture. We fished and were having a blast catching those big Lake Fork bass. My partner and I left them in a cove and after a couple of hours of not seeing them, we returned to see Andy on the front of the bass boat, arms crossed and apparently not very happy. Chad was sitting in the driver's seat and the boat was going in circles. The boys had found a good stump and had high-centered
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the 20 ft. Skeeter on it. After much ragging and giving them a hard time, we assisted them in getting loose. Then there was a game they called "catfish slopping." Our neighbor, Dr. Jay Weiss had a pond that had some old cagey channel catfish that would not bite. The only way to get them to bite was to use an ultralight with a cricket. Problem is that they would break your line. Chad and Andy figured out that if you waded into the pond and followed the fish, you could shorten the distance and force the fish to the bank where he could be caught. Imagine my laughter when I saw these two young men, muddy from head to toe, swimming in a pond that a beaver would pass up, just to catch a big fish. They were like that at everything. But things changed as my young daughter began to have a look in her eye that I didn't like. She had a big crush on Chad and was ignored for the most part as she was two years his junior. But after time, they began to date, and I feared that the relationship was going too fast and too serious, but I was fairly helpless to stop it. As nature overtook good judgment, I was informed by my daughter that she was pregnant. We decided that not one second of our lives as father and daughter would be spent in regret. She chose on her own to volunteer to talk to
teenagers about the dangers of dating and the inevitable should partners decide to be intimate without proper restraints. She graduated high school and never once held her head down. Hopelessly and unconditionally, we both fell in love with that unborn child who became my first grandson, Elijah. Chad was very much affected by 9/11. I remember how this young man was emotionally connected to the fact that our country could be attacked by a foreign entity. Without hesitation and following the lead of his father and grandfather, Chad enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. It was a joint decision but this young man did it out of a sense of duty for his country and out of a desire to provide for his family while pursuing his dream of being a Marine. That clicked on with deployments to Haiti and Afghanistan when he returned to West Monroe for Christmas of 2004. Chad absolutely loved to deer hunt. When he, Danielle and Elijah arrived at my home, it was a joyous occasion. He was 8 months from discharge and plans were made, a job was found and we even picked out a house for the new family. Life was good. I was very ill that Christmas with a bout of pneumonia and had no desire to go hunting. I was sick. But Chad was persistent and with the nudging of my daugh-
ter, we spent a couple of days hunting. Well, he hunted, and I coughed a lot. First, we went to my brother-in-law's place, where Chad and I sat in the same 25 foot tower stand. The deer cooperated and they were active. The next morning we went to a honey hole of mine, and I put him in the "meat stand" which was my favorite. It overlooked a slough and had a natural draw on both sides of the stand. Chad was so excited as he saw 8 deer. He decided not to shoot as he was waiting on a "real big one". That would be the last time I hunted with Chad. After the hunt, he decided to drop a bomb on me. "Pop," he said, "I've got another deployment. I am being sent to Fallujah, Iraq." I was mad at first, sad afterwards as I had heard the horror stories from that region. Chad and I worked on police procedures, breaking into doors, sweeping rooms and how to cover your partner. This made me feel better to at least share what I knew about tactics from my training in hopes it would help him. What I didn't prepare for was the call at 4 a.m. on June 23, 2005. There is nothing like trying to find an airplane out of Monroe, Louisiana at 4 a.m. in the morning, so you can get to your daughter at Camp LeJuene, North Carolina. Long and short of it was that my daughter made me more proud of her than I have ever been in my life during that horrible time. Not only did she carry herself like a mature woman, she carried on the honor in which Chad laid down his life. ABC News came to interview her one day after Chad's death. The reporter asked her this question: "Ma'am if you could say something to President Bush today, what would it be." My 18-year-old daughter looked the reporter in the eye, sensing that he wanted her to bash the President for Chad's death. Her response made my chest swell: "Sir, my husband was a Marine. His Commander in Chief is President Bush. I will not disgrace Chad's memory and dishonor his service by degrading comments about
his Commander or this Country." When we returned home, something strange happened. Danielle asked to go to the woods with me, and we did. Upon reaching the 25 foot tower stand where Chad and I hunted, we found the tower stand that had stood for years face down. When we came upon the second stand he hunted, there was a red oak tree that had blown straight through it. Through teary eyes, I looked at my daughter and said, "You know the greedy little knuckle head just didn't want me hunting his stand." To this day, that stand has not been touched. I reach to it every time I go into the woods and take a second to think of Chad. In fact, I quit hunting for three years after his death. I just couldn't do it. But time went on and I started the healing process with one step by naming that second stand "Chad's Stand." One day I will rebuild it, and the first person that will hunt it will be the son that Chad honored me with by the name of Elijah. Life has gone on. Danielle remarried, and I can honestly say one thing. If I had to pick a man for her, I could not have done any better. He honors the memory of Chad and is such as wonderful example of a father to the three sons they share. I have said all that to say this: Please don't forget our fallen soldiers and their families. Don't drive down I-20 and see the Powell, Barnes and Deal Memorial Highway sign and not remember. In honor of Chad and his brothers in arms, always remember our vets and on June 23 of this year, pause for a moment, bow your head and thank God for brave young men like my son-in-law and many more before and since who gave it all for our freedoms. But for me this year, on the 9th anniversary of his death, remember a skinny, freckled faced kid with a mischievous demeanor who loved to fish and hunt, is one reason that sign is there. This one is for you, Chad. Rest in Peace.
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 65
We’ve Got Duck Dynasty!
Burney’s Furniture Now Proudly Carries Duck Dynasty Living Room Furniture by Jackson
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URNEY’S IS THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE THE ARRIVAL of the “Duck Dynasty” line of living room furniture –camo patterns that look like they’ve jumped out of the Roberston’s living room straight into yours. In an instant, casual comfort meets down home practicality. Camo Furniture is making a HUGE splash in the furniture industry for one reason – PEOPLE LOVE THEM! And nowhere is the trend picking-up more steam than in the Southeast sportsmen, women and anyone who appreciates the quality of life that the country affords will love this new line. This collection includes entire living room combinations... sofas, loveseats, as well as everyone’s favorite, recliners. Buy a combo or buy a single piece. It’s up to you!
SO WHO MAKES THEM? The Duck Dynasty line is made by Catnapper, whose parent company, Jackson Furniture, has been producing high quality home furniture since 1933. Jackson Furniture is a 3rd Generation USA family owned and operated business with 6 American factories and 1,500 employees and vendors committed to producing the most comfortable and longest lasting furniture that money can buy. BUY WITH CONFIDENCE--Jackson furniture offers an incredible warranty. SO WHERE YOU CAN BUY? Burney’s, of course! We’re a family centered, family-run furniture store, here for you in every way, whether it’s arranging financing for your purchases, helping with design and color considerations or any bumps that might come-up along the way. We’re Here. We’re Burney’s.
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Summer Exercise Tips
Medi-Weightloss is the One That Works with Over 2.6 Million Pounds Lost Nationwide
BY DR. STEVEN MCMAHAN
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OW THAT THE WEATHER IS WARMING UP AND WE are getting ready for Summer, I’d like to provide tips on exercising on staying cool, safe and fit this Summer. At Medi-Weightloss®, we teach our patients how to make healthy lifestyle changes so they can lose weight and keep it off. We prescribe an individualized weight loss plan including a nutrition and exercise plan, supplements, vitamin-based injections, and if medically appropriate, an FDA-approved prescription. On average, our patients lose 6.4 pounds the first week and 14 pounds the first month. Our program is customized to each individual, and the exercise portion of our program is the same way. We want it to fit into your lifestyle so you can keep it up long term. The fitness experts at Medi-Weightloss created InterActive Exercise. It uses resistance bands and DVDs that can be done in the privacy of your own home. You can burn just as many calories through resistance training without having to leave the comfort of your own home or worry about the weather conditions outside. Or, if you have plans to travel this Summer, you can easily take it with you! Another tip is to work out early in the day. This gets you moving before the sun is at its strongest. If you’re not a morning person, work out in the evening after the sun begins to set. This is a great time of year to join a gym. Living in the South, we have a long summer season. Another benefit to joining a gym is the availability of taking group exercise classes. This provides you with a variety of ways to exercise and change up your workout routine. One of the most important things to do is stay hydrated, especially in the summer heat! Together with Dr. Mark Dollar, Dr. Byron Henry and Dr. Michael McCormick, we are proud to now offer Medi-Weightloss® located at 1900 North 7th Street. For more information or to schedule your Free Assessment, please call 318-582-1126 or visit mediweightloss.com. I look forward to helping you achieve your weight loss goals.
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BayouKidZ
Eating Healthy at Home H
Preparing and Eating Meals Together as a Family
APPY MID-YEAR MARK TO THE BayouLife nation! As we welcome June with temperatures still in the 50s, we celebrate graduations and school being out for the summer. Really? Yes, just like that, someone pushed the fast forward button, and it’s time again for summer vacations, pool parties and sleep overs. From a "grown-up" perspective (I’m not sure I qualify as such, so I will use the word loosely), I personally enjoy this time of year from the viewpoint of a "foodie." For certain, I am a person who gets a kick out of visits to the farmer’s market and stopping on the side of the road for home-grown produce. If you circle anywhere near my very boring and somewhat ho-hum network, you already know that this writer has no hobbies, no social life and no enviable travel schedule (unless travel to a ballpark makes you envious.) Like most folks I know, my days are filled with work and children, which I wouldn’t have any other way, but it leaves very little time for a "hobbyful" (Dr. Seuss, meet Cindy Foust) life. There is one thing that does give me great joy, however, and makes the hills alive with the sound of music, and that is cooking. I have come to appreciate that cooking either puts a person in a happy place or it puts them in a grumpy, irritable place. Frankly, there is no in between, you either love it or you don’t. For
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by Cindy Gist Foust
me, that happy place is in my kitchen, performing some new experiment on a shrimp, with my family and friends standing around like the proverbial guinea pigs. However, not everyone embraces the warmth from the oven, and for many families, the kitchen just becomes the place where your kids set their backpacks. Some of the buzz words in education today are obesity, childhood obesity and healthy eating, and heads scratch daily on what we, (my fellow Americans), can do to change this trend. Many believe that we are too far gone, and it would be impossible to eradicate the damage. Just call me Hopeful Holly, but there is boatloads of research out there, and experts that share the opinion that if families will cook and eat together, it could be a vital step in resolving obesity issues, and not just for children. In my humble opinion, it seems there could be an entire revolution just waiting to happen...and that revolution could start in the kitchen (I’ve got to start with my friend Melanie, who thinks takeout chicken nuggets are a food group.) I read somewhere that cooking with your children is a "lost art" in households across America today. Common sense supports that primarily because families lead such hectic, busy lives and the family time that probably suffers the most is the dinner hour. It's just easier to pick up pizza or run through a drive-
through. Let’s face it, planning, grocery shopping and preparing meals takes time. How many readers have ever found themselves rushing from work to the grocery store and after trying to decide what to cook, rolling in the garage on two wheels to get dinner "on the stove?" Probably everyone that reads this column. As the research suggested, family dinnertime is a lost art. But that same research says that if families today would slow the cycle down just a bit, and evaluate the value of organizing family meals, prepared some nights by the entire family, what an impact that effort could make. How so? By encouraging your children to take part in the process, they will be more inclined to try healthier foods. Listen, I'm not saying you have to plan a seven-course meal that includes sorbet and eating with the right fork, but the reality is that good, home-cooked meals are going to be much healthier than takeout. Most people are probably not aware that the average calories for a fast food meal (burger with cheese, fries and a soda) is 1300, and if you add a shake or dessert, it goes up even more. Cooking at home however, reduces the caloric intake drastically, depending on your meal choice (half of a roasted chicken, baked potato and green beans averages 350 calories). CONTINUED ON PAGE 129
Beautiful Skin
Mickel Plastic Surgery to Host Wine and Cheese Open House May 29th
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BY TIMOTHY J. MICKEL, MD, FACS, BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
HE RECIPE FOR GLOWING SKIN used to be pretty easy. Wash your face, get plenty of rest, drink a lot of water and don’t sleep in your make up. But skin care is not so simple anymore. And it’s big business! When was the last time you took a trip to the cosmetic counter at a big department store? Gone are the days when lipstick, make-up and perfume were the main offerings. Now you’d think you were at a medispa in a resort. There are bottles of goo that will lift, smooth, rejuvenate, remove hair and give you inner peace all at the same time. The marketing materials tout active ingredients that sound like they came from a presentation at the National Academy of Science. Products promise to utilize “aquacurrent science” to repair your DNA and stem cells to provide “cellular level cleansing” - because everyone knows that just cleaning the
surface and leaving behind a bunch of dirty cells makes no sense at all. In general, over the counter products, no matter what they claim, contain a lower concentration of active ingredients than comparable prescription grade products and therefore are not as effective. Unfortunately, as most women know, they don’t always cost less. So if you are going to spend money on a skin care regimen, it makes sense to spend it on products that have ingredients with proven medical benefits at a high enough concentration to produce a noticeable result. Retin-A is a time-honored agent with proven therapeutic results. Scores of scientific studies have shown that retin-A improves fine wrinkles, increases cell turnover and reverses aging skin changes over time. That’s why I believe retin-A or one of its vitamin A derived cousins, should be the cornerstone of
any skin health and maintenance program. The original Obagi program – which I introduced to this area over fifteen years ago – was built around retin-A. It was (and still is) a good program for patients who are willing to be flexible and put up with a significant degree of initial skin irritation and redness. They also need a sense of humor to put up with the smell of the products, which is similar to my dog’s “garbage can” breath. And what about people with sensitive skin or young patients who don’t need such an aggressive regimen or people too impatient to wait for the redness to subside? Dr. Zein Obagi, the creator of the original skin care program, sold the company (and the name) and no longer has anything to do with the Obagi line. In 2007, he started a new company, ZO Medical, with an expanded line up of effective and pleasant smelling products. Retin-A is still the cornerstone of the program for patients that need a more aggressive approach. It is used in conjunction with cleansers, toners, pigment equalizers and exfoliants in much the same way as the original Obagi program, so the transition to ZO will be easy. For younger patients, gentler products that still offer the therapeutic benefits of CONTINUED ON PAGE129
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 71
Fiesta Nutrition Center Fiesta Adds Local Grass-Fed Lamb to Their Meat Section
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INDING A LOCAL SOURCE FOR GRASS-FED MEATS TO offer their customers has become a reality for Fiesta Nutrition Center. The latest addition to their expanding meat section is lamb, a lean versatile source of protein. Abby Farms in northeast Louisiana is a treasure to this area with its lovely pastures that is home to a herd of Katahdin sheep. Local attorney Brady King chose sheep as the livestock to raise on a particular twenty acres of his ranch. When asked why he chose sheep for this farming venture, he said, ”Sheep are easy to raise, and they are easy on the land. The popularity of sheep is growing worldwide and becoming more-so in Louisiana.” The Katahdin breed originates in South Africa and the Caribbean, allowing them to be tolerant of the Louisiana heat. Great care is given to the Abby Farms sheep. They graze on Bermuda grass and clover, are given no growth hormones or antibiotics and are harvested locally at a reputable state-inspected qualified facility. Typically lamb has the reputation as having a strong, earthly flavor. Perhaps this is characteristic of certain breeds and from the conditions of raising, The over-whelming consensus of customers and staff of Fiesta that have tried the Abby Farms brand is that it has a very mild, light flavor. King’s theory is that this breed sheds its wool coat on its own, therefore the lanolin produced is minimal. Fatty lanolin content may explain the strong distinctive flavor of some meats. Fiesta has hosted Chef Mark of Restaurant Sage in Monroe to do cooking demonstrations and taste-sampling of the ground lamb. His version of Lamb Burger Sliders was met with rave reviews. Many were pleasantly surprised at the light and fresh flavor of the visually-appealing meat. The cuts available in the Fiesta frozen section are ground, liver and bone-in leg. Fiesta Nutrition agrees with Abby farms. Eating local foods is better for you, the environment and for your tastebuds!
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We Deliver... Quality Care
Morehouse General Hospital Provides Quality Care and Delivery Services For Mothers and Babies
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OREHOUSE GENERAL HOSPITAL HAS PROUDLY SERVED residents of Northeast Louisiana and Southeast Arkansas since 1930. Delivering babies is one of the things that we do best. We love bringing new babies into the world at Morehouse General Hospital, and we are committed to providing quality healthcare before, during, and after birth for all of our mothers and their babies. Dr. Janos Guoth graduated medical school in Hungary and relocated to the US in 1986. He completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine in Cincinnati, Ohio. Dr. Guoth has practiced in the US for more than 25 years and has been a valued member of the Morehouse General Hospital medical staff for the last 6 years. He is board certified with the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He is located at 425 South Vine Street. To schedule an appointment, call (318) 281-8555. Dr. Curtis Sanders earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas, School of Medicine in 1996. He completed his internship and residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at LSU Health Sciences Center
in Shreveport in 2000. He practiced at EA Conway in Monroe for 12 years before joining the medical staff at Morehouse General Hospital. Dr. Sanders is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He is located at 618 South Washington. To schedule an appointment, call (318) 281-5035. Dr. Martin Young graduated from the University of London, in London, England. He completed a fellowship in pediatric endocrinology at Children’s Hospital of Boston and is a member of the Endocrine Society and the American Diabetes Association. Dr. Young has practiced for more than 30 years and in 2012 joined the medical staff at Morehouse General Hospital. He is located at 420 South Vine Street. To schedule an appointment, call (318) 283-3032. Rachel Waller is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner who has more than 10 years’ experience caring for pediatric patients. She graduated from the University of Louisiana at Monroe with a BSN, and went on to obtain her Master’s Degree from Grambling University. Rachel is certified by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board and is now a member of the Morehouse General Hospital medical staff. She is located at 420 South Vine. To schedule an appointment, call (318) 283-3032.
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 73
MAISON HOMME HOME OF MARK TURRENTINE by Maré Brennan
Live oaks shade the façade of local business executive Mark Turrentine’s exquisite home nestled on a unique oval cul de sac located in the heart of River Oaks neighborhood in North Monroe. Originally Mark was working on plans with architect Larry James to build his dream home in another neighborhood. “My son, Nick, and I were living near here when this house came on the market. I’m kind of a perfectionist,” explains Mark of the experience. “This house had so many things I wanted in the house I was designing, like cathedral ceilings and good bones.” And it also offered a chance for the men to get settled into a place of their own sooner. Painted brick and stucco in shades of cool limestone, Turrentine’s home is surrounded by well-manicured gardens and foundation plantings designed by Laura Schween and installed by Larry Griggs, including a secluded garden filled with exuberant roses and a birdbath beside the home’s
photos by Joli Livaudais
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topiary-flanked back door. “I told Laura I wanted something maintenance free,” adds Mark. Brick walkways lead to the back garden and pool area which is defined by lush and fragrant ligustrum. Jets of water gracefully arc into the turquoise bottomed pool as bronze cranes keep watch at the water’s edge. Chaise lounges with Sunbrella fabric cushions are the perfect perch for summer tanning. Mark added a new spa beneath an existing arbor. Knockout roses in vibrant pink add punches of color leading to the outdoor kitchen and living area. With Versailles patterned travertine flooring, the outdoor living area is warmed by a large woodburning fireplace and cozied up with wrought iron furniture with plush Sunbrella fabric cushions in a soothing pebble color. An arched mirror reflects images of the pool and beyond, and a plasma screen above the fireplace adds another element of entertainment. The pool bathroom is just inside the home was redesigned by Misty
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Cordell. The marble shower with elegant glass door features a dark river rock inset. A copper vessel sink sits atop a granite topped vanity. Cordell was instrumental in helping Mark choose the hard materials and finishes used throughout the home, as well as redesigning the home’s bathrooms. “We started with renovating the floors and paint, and then we kept going,” Mark says with a smile, remembering how he made this home his own. The whole downstairs flooring was black slate and carpet, which Mark replaced with large plank black walnut flooring. The home’s media room/den has a plethora of man-friendly features. With a soaring cathedral ceiling covered in a pickled pine, the den, outfitted with surround sound and a 144” projection screen by Mason Granade’s Home Cinema, is the perfect venue that puts you in the center of the action. Masculine overstuffed leather sofas and comfy lounge chairs that swivel keep everyone’s head in the
game. It’s no wonder that Mark’s home is ground zero for watching everything from the Olympics to sporting events. Above a large brick fireplace is a whimsical dog portrait, reminiscent of William Wegman’s famous weimaraner photographs, found by Mark’s friend Suzanne Underwood, who shares a common sense of style with Turrentine. A driftwood sculpture, European deer mounts and a shotgun that was a given to Mark’s dad when his friend, Fred Jacobs, passed away add interest to a corner of the man cave. Steering wheels from vintage English sports cars allude to Mark’s “need for speed.” Grins the effervescent Turrentine, who is president of Standard Enterprises, “I like to go fast,” but when he slows down you’ll more than likely find him in the media room or his beloved wine cellar. A home for Mark, a connoisseur of the grape, would not be complete without a wine cellar to house his vast collection. “The wine cellar is one of those places where I went a little crazy,” he laughs. In what used to be a closet, a glass-paneled, coded-lock door grants access to a temperature and humidity controlled wine cellar. Key Millwork created the cabinetry with pullout drawers for caskets and insets for special vintages with LED lighting. Rough edge natural stone mosaic tiles provide a dramatic backdrop for a 100-year-old, French grapevine candelabra the homeowner found on Etsy. The walls were faux finished by Amy Peters Simmermaker to enhance the room’s cavern-like appearance. The den’s wet bar with a copper awning with rich patina also received a complete overhaul replacing the bar top with black walnut. Upper cabinets with glass panes and rough stone mosaic tiles travel up the wall adding interest and texture. Amy Peters Simmermaker used her faux finishing artistry to make existing cabinetry look like black walnut. The wine cellar and media room are not the only high tech additions to the home. Mark had Home Cinema wire his home so that all electronics, heat and air can be controlled through a central panel or through your iPhone or iPad. “Mark loves his gadgets,” adds his girlfriend Michelle. In the more formal central living room, Mark’s love of classic French furnishings becomes more defined. The large Impressionistic painting by America Makke above the fireplace mantle was a housewarming gift to Mark from his father. Mark describes how Makke’s wife, Eva, also an accomplished painter, offered to paint Mark into the painting. Once Eva had a photograph of Mark, she was able to paint him into the foreground of the painting and sent signed paintbrushes, paints and a book about Makke’s work as well. Lanece Lasseter framed the brushes and paints sent by the artists, and Mark has hung them in an alcove leading to the kitchen. Lanece also framed three Makke prints that line the wall of the staircase. Says Mark, “Lanece came up with great ideas for framing and helping me place my artwork.” The original turned wooden staircase railings were replaced with wrought iron railings custom designed by the homeowner and Walker Glenn and welded by Shane Wallace. A large bronze sculpture, “Celebration,” by Vietnamese artist Tuan is placed in front of a beautifully draped window that looks out onto the pool and outdoor living areas. Drapery throughout the home was custom designed and fabricated by 78 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
MARK’S LOVE OF CLASSIC FRENCH FURNISHINGS IS DEFINED THROUGHOUT THE HOME. Sandy Gimber of Haven Interiors. Furnishings in luxe gold velvet and rich burgundy leathers are illuminated by a French chandelier. ”I tend to like ornate French style furnishings, and my friend Suzanne Underwood has been a great resource and has guided me as I’ve furnished by home. She even went to Malouf and John Richard in Mississippi, handpicking things I might like and brought back a truckload of furniture and accent pieces for me to try. She knew that I know what I like when I see it.” Throughout Turrentine’s home, designer Misti Cordell introduced a subdued palette of colors. New paneled wainscot, luxurious damask wallpaper, and columns which add definition to the space add architectural details that take the dining room’s “wow factor” up several notches. Antique idyllic landscape paintings which the homeowner acquired from a Swedish dealer flank a large, custom-carved gilt mirror from Haven above a marble topped buffet. “A lot of my furniture came from Malouf, including the dining room table and chairs,” explains Mark. “Beverly from Malouf took dimensions of the house, I would pick designs that I liked and she would
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View of the Kitchen
Detail of the Office’s Shower e Master Bathroom
Turrentine’s Home Office
e Master Bedroom
make sure the furniture would be the correct scale for the space.” The drapery, created by Sandy and Jessie from Haven, is a pleated silk with bullion fringe hung from a gilded rod. Through a brick arch lies the home’s spacious kitchen with beamed ceilings. “One of my favorite things about this kitchen,” says Mark with a grin, “is the built-in Miele coffeemaker.” Mark and Michelle traveled to a Dallas warehouse to find just the right marble for countertops and backsplashes in the kitchen and what they found was a spectacular greyish-white marble with subtle sage green veining. “Michelle has been great in helping me pull all this together,” explains Mark. Stainless steel appliances like a double door Thermador refrigerator and double oven gas range make this a cook’s kitchen. Mark and his son especially love when Michelle bakes on the weekends. A built-in table, which extends from the edge of an island and is topped by a wine barrel lid converted into a lazy Susan, was restained a richer color by Amy Peters Simmermaker. Just beyond the formal living room is Mark’s personal office. “I’ve had this desk for
a long time,” Mark says wistfully. Wood paneling and a coffered ceiling with recessed lighting was added to create a masculine feel. A Glenn Gore “Spirit of LSU” print creates a focal point within the built-in cabinetry. An inlaid bombe chest with a marble top is a prized piece Mark acquired from an antique dealer in California. It originally belonged to the estate of General Curtis Lemay, an Air Force General, an architect of the Cold War and a vice presidential running mate of George Wallace. A full bath is attached to the office and features a shower with metallic sculptural tile inset within a dark metallic rectangular tile designed by Misti Cordell. The coffered ceiling from the office carries over into the bath. Walls are covered in an elegant damask wallpaper. A vessel sink is a jewel atop the bathroom vanity. The master bedroom’s carved bed is covered in dreamy custom bedding and pillows designed by Sandy Gimber from Haven. The bench at the foot of the bed was reupholstered by Gimber in an elegant cut velvet. Lovely silk panels, also designed by Gimber and her staff, cover the double windows which look out
onto the pool and backyard. To organize his closet, Mark called in Susan Duke, who is known for her no-nonsense approach to storage. Built-ins were designed and now there is a place for everything and everything is in its place. The master bathroom is a harmonious space with double vanity sinks and a jetted tub surrounded by built-in niches. Amy Peters Simmermaker faux finished cabinetry and doors which are fitted with jewel like mother of pearl drawer pulls. Fixtures, mirrors and lighting were found at Restoration Hardware. An opening fitted with a pair of faux-finished swinging doors leads the extravagant walk-in shower designed by Misti Cordell with oversized rain shower fixture and decorative tiles with leaf designs inset into floor to ceiling travertine tiles. Turrentine’s home makeover was made possible by a man who knows what he wants and makes it happen with the help of his designing friends.
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 81
Junior League of Lafayette Cookbooks
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A Must-Have for Every Louisiana Kitchen! UNIOR LEAGUE OF LAFAYETTE cookbooks have been staples in kitchens across Louisiana for years. Each book is unique, and there is something for everyone from the veteran cook to the delightful entertainer. The series boasts awards including the Walter S. McIllhenny Hall of Fame Award and Southern Regional Tabasco Community Cookbook Award, and has been featured in In Style Magazine and Southern Living. They are great hostess, wedding and Christmas gifts, but you will definitely want copies for yourself!
FOR THE EXPERIENCED COOK The original cookbook from Cajun Country, this first Junior League of Lafayette Cookbook takes you on a journey through south Louisiana's traditions, cultural heritage and culinary artistries of Cajun food. This versatile
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cookbook starts with a "roux" and ends with a Gumbo! Talk About Good! is a timeless classic and a must for all great cooks.
FOR THE ART COLLECTOR Talk About Good II is adorned with 12 fullcolor prints, only available in this book, by internationally acclaimed "Blue Dog" artist, the late George Rodrigue. It features a unique menu selection with authentic Cajun recipes and an unpretentious yet exotic flair. You'll also treasure its wine reference guide, 12 special occasion menus, wild game recipes, party planning hints and its spice and herb guide. FOR THE READER A cookbook spiced with Cajun traditions and food memories, Tell Me More is bursting with recipes and stories chronicling Cajun
ways, past and present. You'll learn to make great dishes using basic pantry items, by following recipes from legendary Cajun cooks and those of a new generation. The book features prints by the late world renowned Cajun artist Floyd Sonnier.
FOR THE ENTERTAINER Something to Talk About, the fourth in the Talk About Good! Cookbook Series, provides an abundance of kitchen-tested recipes from Louisiana's Cajun Country. It features 12 menus for the occasions celebrated in South Louisiana, entertaining hints, and vibrant color photography that enable readers to recreate South Louisiana-style celebrations in any locale. To purchase, call 337-988-2739, or visit us online at www.juniorleagueoflafayette.com.
Jesus the Good Shepherd Takes a Vacation
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JGS Hosts 5th Annual May Day Celebration ESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD SCHOOL recently held the fifth annual May Day Celebration on the school grounds in front of an enormous crowd of parents, grandparents, friends and family members. As always, the celebration was a way to honor the graduating sixth graders as well as celebrate another successful school year. This year’s theme was “JGS Takes a Vacation,” and we followed the famous Griswold family as Pre-K 3 through 5th grade danced and sang their way across the USA! Each class was assigned different songs that evoked a particular vacation destination, and all the students were costumed in coordinating outfits. From “Frozen” at Disney to Elvis and Showgirls in Vegas to, of course, California, our JGS students were in full-on Griswold mode for the performance. A huge “THANK YOU” goes out to Beth Swanner for
chairing May Day for the fifth year in a row! She always does an amazing job of organizing, choreographing and making sure everyone has an opportunity to shine. The show was capped off with a celebration of our graduating sixth graders. Each graduate was dressed in white and the entire class wrapped a traditional May Pole; a symbol of their passage out of JGS and on to middle school. The evening was a wonderful commemoration of not only the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of our sixth graders, but also the end of another successful school year at JGS. This year our P.T.O., led by Amy Taylor and her committee, organized an awesome Trip Raffle where the winner received an $8000 vacation package. Fr. David Richter pulled the winning raffle ticket from the thousands of raf-
fle tickets sold during our recent school trip raffle fund raiser. Congratulations to Ainslee Peters for winning the raffle! The festivities continued after the May Day performance with our annual school carnival. Thank you to Jane Gunter and Courtney Holyfield for organizing the carnival, Rebecca Leaumont and Jenny Pankey for organizing the food, as well as the countless others who donated treats, prizes and their time for the carnival. Thanks also goes to Sheri Hand and Caron McPherson for their outstanding backdrop design as well as all of the volunteers, without whom, May Day would not have been such a success. Our JGS family is awesome, and our school is very blessed to have so many wonderful, giving people who are actively involved!
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Red, White and Brew Pub Crawl on July 5th
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Monroe Renaissance Celebrates Independence Day ONROE RENAISSANCE IS celebrating Independence Day with a bang by presenting their bimonthly downtown pub-crawl on Saturday, July 5. The non-profit group, made of volunteers that are working to revitalize downtown, have coordinated a pub-crawl for the past year that has brought hundreds of visitors to downtown to visit pubs, bars and restaurants in downtown Monroe. Participants check in at Bry Park, located at the corner of South Grand and Desiard Street. They will receive their pub passport, which will have a map and list of the participating locations, along with drink specials at each location. After making each stop and getting their passport stamped, pub-crawlers will drop off their completed
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passport at the last stop – Restaurant Cotton - for the chance to win prizes. Restaurant Cotton will also be a great viewing spot for the Star Spangled Spectacular Fireworks Show, presented by CenturyLink, which starts at dusk. The Downtown Pub-Crawl is a free event and participants must be 21 years of age. Participants can also hop on the party bus for free transportation along the pubcrawl route. The participating locations are Enoch’s Irish Pub, Shananigan’s, Live Oaks, Restaurant Cotton and River & Rail Cantina. Local distributors – Marsala Beverage, Choice Brands and Glazer’s – will be on hand at each location to showcase some of their beer products, keeping in line with the “Red, White and Brew” theme. Sponsors for
the event are BayouLife Magazine, Monroe Renaissance, Lamar Outdoor and The Radio People. For more information, find Monroe Renaissance on Facebook – facebook.com/MonroeRenaissance Monroe Renaissance is a non-profit organization consisting of volunteers whose mission is to stimulate and make possible the re-awakening of downtown Monroe through community participation, resulting in an enhanced quality of life.
Life... Don’t Miss a Moment
Sneak-a-Peek and Ashley Dickens Photography Can Capture Every Special Moment
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NEEK-A-PEEK IS OWNED BY Jennifer Lowery and she has partnered with Ashley Dickens of Ashley Dickens Photography. They have been friends since high school. They both share the same ideal of preserving cherished moments of your family from conception through adulthood. Through Sneak-a-Peek’s HD Live technology, you are able to see what your special bundle of joy is really doing inside that beautiful baby bump you have been blessed with. We invite you to come to Sneak-a-Peek and have your baby’s first ultrasound photos in HD Live with Jennifer and afterwards with Ashley Dickens Photography to follow your family’s life in pictures! We use state of the art technology, so you can rest assure you will be able
to see not only what he or she is doing inside the womb, but also exactly what your baby looks like! At Sneak-a-Peek, you will be able to find out the gender of your baby as early as 15 weeks. HD Live is the second-generation rendering tool that provides exceptional anatomical realism and helps increase depth perception. This imaging capability can help you achieve a deeper understanding of relational anatomy. The Voluson E8 Expert is a premium ultrasound system for extraordinary vision inside the womb. Innovations in image quality, automation, transducer technology and image analysis help give you the extraordinary vision you need to help you see what your baby really looks like. Your Sneak-a-Peek experi-
ence will be amazing and a memory you and your loved ones will cherish for a lifetime. Don’t forget with Ashley Dickens Photography we can capture your beautiful creation with maternity sessions, as well as the life of your child outside of the womb as he/she grows with her amazing newborn photography sessions! You don’t want to miss those sweet and dreamy photos of your baby that you can have within the first ten days of birth. Ashley will provide all props necessary to make your photography session a memorable experience. Ashley has you covered with all ranges of photography from newborns, maternity, family and even seniors!
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 85
A Quiet Grace B AY O U I C O N S : C A R O L E A N D T E X K I L PAT R I C K
At first, it's a biography fitting of many couples borne of post-World War II America. Carole and Tex Kilpatrick met, married, started a business and a family, and along the way became philanthropists, pillars of their church community, education activists and patrons of the arts. All the while, they operated Kilpatrick Funeral Homes with a quiet grace that has over the years come to define both Tex and Carole. Spend any time whatsoever with Tex and Carole, and you'll leave feeling like you've known them for years—or at least like they've known you for that long. Tex arrived in West Monroe after college to establish a funeral business there. It was 1953 and West Monroe was booming, with a new high school set to open its doors later that year, retail and business development, even a hospital. There was just one problem, according to Tex's wife, Carole. "When he came to West Monroe to open the funeral home, he had to be emancipated," Carole recalled. "He had finished college and wasn't even 21 yet." But, Tex addressed the problem like he would all the other challenges that would face him over the next fifty years—one step at a time. The result? He opened the first Kilpatrick's Funeral Home in West Monroe in 1953. Since that time, the business has grown to numerous locations, cemeteries and even for a while a life insurance business. For his wife Carole, she took her own path into the world. And that path started with a trip across the Ouachita River. The West Monroe-raised Carole was actually born in Monroe, and for good reason. "They didn't have a hospital in West Monroe," she told BayouLife. Carole was a member of the second graduating class of West Monroe High School in 1955 before enrolling in classes
at Northeast Louisiana State College, now ULM, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and English. "I was planning on being a teacher," she said. She even completed her student-teaching rotations, but a classroom career wasn't quite in the cards. After she married Tex, her path changed. "I did my student teaching, and then I stayed home to rear children," Carole said. The couple has three daughters—Kerry and Robin are both attorneys, and Laura, the youngest, is now president of the family business, a thriving enterprise that provides crucial services at a critical time in people's lives. Tex was a natural candidate for successful funeral director. He had grown up in his father's funeral home in Farmerville. After embalming school and college, Tex and his brother bought the company from their father, and that's when Tex decided to expand into West Monroe. "There wasn't enough business in Ruston and Farmerville for me and my brother," he recalled. Along the way, the Kilpatrick clan branched out. Early on, Tex hit upon a big idea, one that would lead to rising fortunes for the Kilpatrick family. At the time, funerals frequently represented a significant and unexpected expense. Families could go into significant debt to pay for their loved ones' services. Tex saw a way to avoid that distress and to provide a valuable service to his clients. So, in 1957, he opened Kilpatrick Life Insurance Company. "That really kicked off the funeral business, because people could buy a life insurance policy to pay for their funeral when they died," Kilpatrick said. The business exploded, with new locations and services popping up quickly. By 2005, when Kilpatrick Enterprises sold the insurance component, the company started to ease paying for a funeral had become some-
Article by Michael DeVault & Photography by Joli Livaudais JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 87
thing more than Tex ever anticipated. "At the time, it was the largest life insurance company in northeast Louisiana," Tex said. "We sold it to the largest in the country, a firm out of Wisconsin." Today, the Kilpatricks still provide life insurance services through that company. That Tex found success in an innovative manner is no surprise to one of Tex and Carole Kilpatrick's closest friends, West Monroe’s former First Baptist Church Pastor David Uth, who first met Tex and Carole when he came to First West. During his time in the Twin Cities, Uth served on the board of directors of Kilpatrick Enterprises, giving him a front row seat to witness what he called Tex's visionary leadership. "He's a gifted visionary," Uth said. "He is always on the cutting edge of both the funeral and the insurance business." Uth attributes this foresight to Tex's time with people, to the individuals Tex meets at church, in the community or in his business. Tex can assess a person's needs and abilities quickly and often before anyone has noticed those needs or abilities. "He sees things in people that others simply cannot see," Uth said. Uth credits Tex as a significant influence in his life and recalled frequent trips to Tex's office to seek advice. On one such trip, Uth had been struggling for days with a personal decision. He had sought the council of family, of other friends, and of God, but felt no closer to an answer. So, he went to see Tex. "Tex, in his advice and council, but also in his encouragement, really gave me a sense of God's direction. I walked away feeling like I really had my answer," Uth said. This gift extends to Carole, too, according to Uth. "They have an incredible gift of knowing how to encourage and to bless people and to let them know how valuable and important they are, just expressing appreciation," Uth said. "They do this with a real sense of kindness." Tex and Carole bring this sense of kindness and encouragement into all their endeavors, from the church—where they are tithing members and then some—to the arts, where they are patrons and supporters of numerous area arts groups. But it's in education where the Kilpatricks have left their biggest mark, so far, after deciding early on to become supporters of ULM. "We just realized what an asset we have in ULM here in our commu-
LAURA, TEX & CAROLE
pose as ULM presented Tex with an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters.
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nity," said Carole. "We all need to support it as much as we can, especially in light of the cuts they've been receiving." In addition to major financial contributions over the years, Tex and Carole are fixtures at ULM events, and the couple endeavors to raise money for the university whenever they can. Tex also served terms on the ULM Board of Supervisors and on the ULM Foundation Board of Directors. Now, he's a key figure in the ULM SOAR initiative, an effort to secure $54 million in contributions to benefit the university. The money will be used across the university's offerings. "It's not just one area," Tex said. "There are so many areas where they need money to help them be up to speed." If he's remembered for anything, Tex said, he hopes it is for his contributions and efforts in education, especially at the university level. "I've had a dream life," Tex said. For the most part, Carole has focused efforts on supporting Tex, caring for the family and overseeing the home they share on Bayou Desiard in Monroe. The home is as much an extension of Tex and Carole as it is a house. Quiet, comfortable, well apportioned but by no means ostentatious, it arose in 1977 from their shared tastes—and the vision of renowned Louisiana architect A. Hays Town. Carole and Tex learned a lot about their mutual tastes during the construction of the home, which Carole says is very much an extension of themselves. "When we went with Mr. Town, he took us through Baton Rouge and drove around," Carole recalled. During that trip, the couple remarked on features they found interesting. They discussed architectural elements they liked or disliked in each house. After the drive, Town turned to them. "He said, 'I know what kind of house you need. It's going to be for Tex and Carole.'" A month later, the plans arrived. Immediately, they knew they were done with houses for the rest of their lives. "We didn't change anything," Carole said. In keeping with Town's signature style, they used recovered materials as much as possible. Columns came from the Missouri Pacific Depot in downtown Monroe, a site that also yielded the lumber that would eventually become the Kilpatrick home's floor. Tongue-andgroove accent woods in the bedroom wing were salvaged from the antebellum home of Jefferson Davis's brother-in-law in Mississippi. Meanwhile, the home's architecture was crafted to fit the family's unique style. A garçionniere wing provided space for the children, connected to the main house by a wide, welcoming loggia. Town even picked the home's furnishings. The result was a timeless classic, as up-to-date in 2014 as it was the day they turned the key in 1977. In fact, according to Carole they have only replaced some of the furniture a couple of years ago. "It was almost like, until he passed away, I felt like I'd need to run this by him before I changed anything," she said. Tex attributed the home's timelessness to Town's attention to detail. He pointed to the mantle around the fireplace in the living room. When Dalton Taylor, the family's contractor, first installed that mantle, it was pristine, its wood unblemished and smooth. Tex recounted what happened next. He happened by one afternoon during the final days of construction to check progress, only to find Town in the living room with hand tools and a hammer. Town was "aging" the mantle by hand, a process Tex is sure would have sent Dalton Taylor into a fit. When the
process of aging the mantle was complete, Town produced a small penknife. Tex searched the mantle for a moment and then ran a finger across a particularly rough spot. The faint outline of a “T” and a “C” still shows, years later. A “T” and “C” that Town said was "for Tex and Carole." "He stood there and etched that with a little penknife," Tex said, still touched all these years later. Hanging above the mantle, a Boone and Crocket certified eleven-point buck presides over the room, the lone trophy from Tex's hobby—hunting and fishing—that Carole allows her husband to display in the home. An avid outdoorsman, Tex kept a fishing camp on the Gulf of Mexico for forty years. He's since brought fishing closer to home with a camp in Newellton. In addition to deer hunting and fishing, Tex enjoys duck hunting as well. Even in his hobby, though, he finds ways to leave a mark. He served as state chairman of Ducks Unlimited. While at DU, he was invited to the national convention, to reveal how Louisiana Ducks Unlimited had, under his guidance, recruited more members and more donations than any other state's DU chapter. Tex shrugged. "I looked back to my insurance days, where the more people you see and talk to, the more possibility you have for sales," he said. Ducks Unlimited saw his insight a little differently and rewarded him with a seat on the national board of directors, just one of the dozens of honors he and Carole received over their lifetime. For more than thirty years, West Monroe Mayor Dave Norris has watched Tex and Carole Kilpatrick's interests in the community blossom, grow and bear fruit. Situated in his City Hall office just a few blocks away from Tex's own office, Norris has gotten to know both of them, calling Carole "one of the most gracious ladies you could ever meet." And of Tex, his
praise is equally high. "Tex has been a very successful businessman," Norris told BayouLife. "But they've also returned an awful lot to this community, helping to fund the arts and education. Tex has devoted so much of his time to educational interests." On a Saturday morning in late May, Tex and Carole dressed early, gathered family and friends around, and made the trip across town to ULM's Fant-Ewing Coliseum for the Spring Commencement. Norris was on hand, too, to provide the graduation address to the 2014 Senior Class. Hardly their first commencement invitation at ULM, this one was special, as on this particular day Tex was to be a platform guest of ULM President Nick Bruno, also not a first for Tex. This graduation service was different, though. ULM was set to present Tex with an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters, in recognition for his decades of service to higher education in northeastern Louisiana. The honorary doctorate is one of the highest, "if not the highest," honor a university can present to an individual, according to Bruno, and it is awarded sparingly and with much deliberation. "Tex Kilpatrick, with his service to higher education statewide, to LSU, to the system board, the foundation--there's no question he and his wife have committed a great deal of their life to higher education," Bruno said. "I was proud to confer that degree upon him." In front of more than 700 graduating seniors and their families, joined by his wife, his children, his grandchildren and friends, Tex became Dr. Kilpatrick. At the mention of the honor, Tex demurred. "The truth is, when they told me I had been selected, I said very plainly, and I mean it, that there are so many other people who are worthy of receiving this great honors." He flashed a wink, and then added playfully, "But I'll tell you what, I'll certainly take it."
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 89
Louisiana Peach Festival in Ruston
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Squire Creek Presents Annual Event June 27-28 HE RUSTON-LINCOLN CHAMBER of Commerce hosts the Louisiana Peach Festival in Ruston’s downtown area each year during the fourth weekend of June. The festival, which coincides with the beginning of peach season in Ruston, celebrates Ruston’s famed produce crop and is the oldest agricultural festival in Louisiana. Festival goers can indulge in Ruston’s famous peach ice cream, peach cobbler and various other peach delicacies. Peach lovers also have opportunities to participate in the festival’s peacheating contest or the peach cookery contest. Additionally, the Louisiana Peach Festival features live music entertainment, an extensive arts-and-crafts market, a parade, an antique car show, fishing tournaments and more. With events that people of all ages can enjoy, the festival offers a weekend full of family fun.
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There is an admission fee for anyone over the age of seven. Admission is $10 Friday (includes evening concert) and $5 Saturday 8:00 a.m. through 6:00 p.m. Tickets for the Saturday evening music in Railroad Park are $10, or armbands that cover both Saturday admission and the evening concert are available for $10.
PEACH FESTIVAL EVENTS 5K Run/Walk • Arts and Crafts Show • Antique Car Show • Baby Photo Contest • Bass Tournament • Carnival •Children's Expo and Kid’s Zone • Diaper Derby • Fabric Art Challenge Quilting Contest • Festival Parade • Golf Tournament • Kids' Fishing Tournament • Peach Eating Contest • Peach Cookery Contest • Peach Hunt • Rodeo • Tennis Tournament • Quilting Contest
ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE Friday, June 27: 6:30 p.m. – Louisiana Swamp Donky, www.facebook.com/swampdonkymusic 8 p.m. – The Molly Ringwalds, themollyringwalds.com Sat, June 28 7 p.m. – Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band, www.chubbycarrier.com 9 p.m. – Dylan Scott, www.dylanscottcountry.com For more information visit www.louisianapeachfestival.org
Take a First Glimpse of Your Little Miracle
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First Glimpse Ultrasound Offers the Newest Ultrasound Technology
T FIRST GLIMPSE, WE ARE VERY excited to offer an experience you will always cherish. That unique experience makes the moment you see your unborn child that bit more exciting and memorable, whether it be the first time, or you're following your child's development. First Glimpse Ultrasound offers expecting mothers and their families a unique and breathtaking window into the Miracles of Life. The technology behind this imaging works similar to a standard 2D ultrasound, but delivers a 3D/4D/HD live images of the family's soon-to-be newest member as he or she moves around in the safety and comfort of Mom’s womb. We are the first in the area to offer HD Live Ultrasounds with the GE's newest and best technology, the Voluson E8.
HD Live is an extraordinary rendering method generating amazingly realistic images of the human fetus from sonographic data. Through the use of an advanced illumination model, HD Live supports shadows, a virtual light source and advanced skin rendering techniques. These breathtaking images will be saved as stills and/or as a small movie that can be easily transferred to DVD. So come relax in our warm, home like environment and witness your little miracle on a 60-inch television in our viewing facility. From those adorable chubby cheeks to seeing your baby’s hands and feet, we provide a bonding experience like no other, while surrounded by several family members and friends. There is nothing more precious to an expectant Mother than the sound of her baby's
heartbeat. We capture the sound of your baby's heartbeat and create a keepsake that will be cherished forever. All of our packages come with an adorable stuffed animal, and a recording of your baby’s heartbeat. We have a party room that is over 1,000 sq. ft. available for baby showers, gender reveal parties, bridal showers or any other event that you may be planning. At First Glimpse, let us take care of your baby’s before and after photos with our onsite photographer Kristen Davis! Check out her work at kristendavisphotography.com or on Facebook. Schedule your appointment today by going to www.firstglimpseofbaby.com or Call us at: 318.807.4618.
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 91
The Second City – 50 Years of Funny
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ARCO Celebrates 60 Years with Special Entertainment from The Second City
I, I AM DOUG PEDERSON, THE Offensive Coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs and NLU Alumnus. I started my football career as an Indian and have made it full circle, you could say! Having attended NLU (now ULM), I have lots of family and deep roots in northeast Louisiana---including my longtime support of ARCO, A Community Resource a nonprofit United Way Agency that provides services for babies and adults with developmental disabilities. I have been hosting the Doug Pederson Event for twelve years now, and this year’s will be one of the best! Not only are we celebrating ARCO’s Sixtieth Anniversary but we will have special entertainment from The
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Second City! This fundraising event will be memorable, and I hope you join me in honoring ARCO’s services and individuals with developmental disabilities by attending. The event will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2014 at the West Monroe Convention Center. No plane ticket needed; you are headed to “The Second City” of Chicago-50 Years of Funny! The main event will feature a one-hour comedy skit that has been custom written for the ARCO event. There will also be an improvisational part of the event that you won’t want to miss. Be prepared to laugh, folks! Then, let the fun continue with the golf tournament, which takes place on Monday,
June 23, 2014 at Calvert Crossing. This year there are two flights to choose from, AM or PM, and each golfer will receive a gift card from Titleist! Please consider becoming a sponsor. We have many levels to choose from. Or perhaps, giving an in-kind donation is a better fit. If you need a little help figuring it out or have questions, we have an awesome group of volunteers that can help. Please go to ARCO’s website for all the details and sign up today! Sincerely, Doug Pederson
Quality Care
First Choice Hospice Offers the Best Care for the People You Love the Most
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BY DEBBIE RAINWATER
ONSIDERED TO BE THE MODEL for quality, compassionate care for people facing life-limiting illness or injury, hospice care involves a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management and emotional and spiritual support expressly tailored to the patient’s needs and wishes. Support is provided to the patient’s loved ones as well. At the center of hospice and palliative care is the belief that each of us has the right to die pain-free and with dignity and that our families receive the necessary support to allow us to do so. At First Choice Hospice, this is our goal. Hospice care is used when you can no longer be helped by curative treatment, and you are expected to live about six months or less if the illness runs its usual course. Hospice treats the person rather than the disease, work-
ing to manage symptoms so that a person’s last days may be spent with dignity and quality, surrounded by their loved ones. First Choice Hospice focuses on caring, not curing, and in most cases care is provided in the patient’s home. Hospice care may also be provided in nursing facilities, assisted living facilities and hospitals, if needed. Hospice services are available to patients of any age, religion, race or illness. Hospice care is covered under Medicare, Medicaid, most private insurance plans and other managed care organizations. The hospice team develops a plan of care that meets each patient’s individual needs for pain management and symptom control. The team members usually consist of the patient’s personal physician, the hospice medical director, a RN case manager, home health aide, social
worker, chaplain and trained volunteers. The main responsibility of hospice is pain and symptom management, assisting the patient with the emotional, psychosocial and spiritual aspects of dying, providing needed drugs, medical supplies and equipment, and teaching the family how to care for the patient at home. Hospice staff is available 24 hours a day, with a nurse on call to take care of any needs after hours and on weekends. When is the best time to ask about hospice? Now. Now is the best time to learn more about hospice and ask questions about what to expect from hospice services. The best time for family members to share their thoughts about the kind of care and intervention they want at the end of their life is before there is a crisis. For more information about hospice care or to schedule an informational visit, please call Debbie Rainwater or Rachael McIntyre at First Choice Hospice at 318-322-0049. First Choice Hospice is located at 426 DeSiard Street in Monroe. Debbie Rainwater is a Nationally Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Administrator and has been a hospice care administrator for ten years.
JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 93
A REAL SAINT
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T New Orleans’ Saints tight end, Ben Watson, talks to BayouLife about football, his passion for family and his foundation One More.
he country song “Chain of Love” was released in 2000 and sung by Clay Walker. It was a song about how one random act of kindness can be passed along and somehow it ends up coming back around when it is needed most. The song starts with a man helping a woman in a Mercedes with a flat tire. The woman then goes on her way and stops at a restaurant in the same town. Her kind waitress is a pregnant woman and because of the previous act of kindness, she decides to leave her a $100 tip.The pregnant woman ends up being married to the man who helped the woman with the flat tire and little did the woman know how much the couple was struggling to make ends meet. The concept of the song is to not let the chain of love end with you – keep it going forward. The same year that song came out, current New Orleans Saints tight end Ben Watson was a college student athlete at the University of Georgia. He had transferred from Duke University and was sitting out the one year due to the NCAA transfer rule. During that year, the finance major met a co-ed named Kirsten. This may have not been a chain of love because it was just two involved, but the first date turned into a chain of dates and in no time at all became a never-ending love and an unbreakable bond. “Our first date, we were going to eat at the lunch room at school – the dining hall together,” Watson said sheepishly, almost ashamed of the cheap date. “The second date we went to church for an off-campus ministry that we had become involved with and all these kids in Athens. “They had no aspirations to even be associated with the University of Georgia. We were somewhat mentors, but just encouraging them that you can go to school in your own backyard, if you apply yourself, make the grades and have the spiritual aspect. We were trying to be a positive impact with them.” Ben and Kirsten married in 2005, one year after the New England Patriots selected the tight end in the first round of the 2004 NFL draft. Although it doesn’t seem like that long ago, the NFL draft has changed in a lot of ways. For starters, Ben did not travel to New York like most first-round potential draft picks currently do. He sat at home with his family back in South Carolina, but the tight end said even if given the option today he would still choose the same setting for when he got the call that made his NFL dreams come true. Not all of the dream, though, is ideal. Ben had never traveled as far north as Boston. He visited Washington D.C. when he was younger and when he got the call that he was the newest member of the Patriots, he didn’t even own a winter coat. “It was a total culture change, not to mention the weather change,” Watson said. “You have no idea what guys go through, to live in one place my whole life then go to another part of the country.” That wasn’t the only struggle. In fact, if that was the only hurdle, Watson would have been fine. However, there were other impacts that set him back even further. He tore his ACL in his first year with the New England Patriots, and it did not help the competitor inside of him, who is used to being on the field for every play to sit on the sidelines and watch his team win the Super Bowl without him. “That was a very tough thing,” Watson recalled. “It was a learning JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 95
that sleeve may be. As much as he loves football, he loves his spiritual life with his wife and kids even more. Within four years of marriage, Ben and Kirsten was able to develop the foundation “One More.” Ben is the oldest of six children with a minister as a father. Ken played college football at the University of Maryland, but he did not allow his sons to play football until high school. “I always had a love for football with my father playing, so I just gravitated toward the game,” Ben said. “I liked the contact and the competition and playing on the team. I didn’t really play organized football except one year of little league. “My dad wanted me to wait. It was kind of tough when you’re young and not developed and the coach may not know what he’s doing and you develop bad habits.”
process, but there were other things I enjoyed about being on a winning team. There were a lot of great veteran players, and I learned where to lead and be an example for younger players.” He did not know at the time, but Watson’s setback helped him to mentor future rookies, including some of Monroe’s own years later. After spending six years in New England and three with the Cleveland Browns, Watson was traded to the New Orleans Saints in 2013. He reported and had free agents and former ULM receiver Brent Leonard and tight end Keavon Milton on the same field with him, if only for a brief time. “Keavon and I were in meeting rooms together for the whole training camp, and I had an opportunity to talk to him a lot and just kind of tell him about the path he might have to take,” Watson said. “I told him he’s a really talented and big guy, 96 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
Photo Credit: New Orleans Saints Organization
WHO DAT? After bouncing around to a few places, Watson has found his home with the New Orleans’ Saints.
but he can move really well. The big thing is I tell young players, especially when they come in as free agents, ‘Just because you don’t make it with one team, doesn’t mean you won’t make it with another.’” The Saints cut Milton late into preseason camp last August, but within 24 hours he was picked up by Watson’s old team, the Browns. “The one thing I said to him was, ‘Sorry about that. You’re going to be cold,’” Watson said with a laugh. Like free agents, Watson bounced around to a few places and wearing different color uniforms in the process, from blue and red to orange and black and now to the black and gold. However, his path in life has never seemed to waiver. He’s always worn his love for Jesus Christ on his sleeve, no matter what the color of
IF YOU CAN SPREAD GOD’S LOVE TO ONE PERSON IN ONE SIMPLE WAY EVERY DAY AND ANOTHER PERSON DOES THAT TO SOMEONE ELSE, THINK OF HOW AMAZING THE WORLD CAN BE.
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That did not keep Ben and his brothers, along with the neighborhood, from playing a pickup game in the streets. Ben still has a few scars from running into parked cars or getting tackled on the asphalt, but his spiritual impact has been imbedded for some time. The concept of One More is to pass along the message and the love of Jesus Christ to others and hopefully those individuals will carry it on to the next person…kind of like a chain of love. “Our (Ben and Kirsten’s) whole relationship is based on always wanting to serve other people,” Watson said. “So we came up with this idea of One More in 2009, spreading the love of Jesus Christ to spread it to one more soul by meeting people’s needs whether that be clothing, education or partnering with different charities. “I feel like everybody to some extent can lend a hand to other people. They just don’t know how. If you can spread God’s love to one person
PHOTOS BY IMAGES OF GRACE PHOTOGRAPHY
in one simple way every day and another person does that to someone else, think of how amazing the world can be.” Watson and his family, along with the others who help with the foundation, have already seen the gratifications in the first five years of One More. “Whatever we have done – an event here or there – a lot of people who have been served with food or presents or whatever, a lot of times they want to come back and help the next crop of people,” Watson said. “People want to help people who are in need. “We wanted a legacy that could one day grow into something bigger than we imagined it to be. Something our kids can be involved with and have a household of legacies of giving, because we were both given by our God.” Soon after the jumpstart to their foundation, Ben and Kirsten welcomed their first child Grace. The family has since multiplied with Grace now 5, Naomi recently turned four and their sons Isaiah and Judah are 2 and 1, respectively. Ben joked this past Spring was the first time Kirsten was not pregnant or nursing, making their busy lives somewhat easier. However, they continue to stay in the fast lane. Between the football world and always keeping God first, the couple still finds ways to stay humble. Ben even admits he’s not the best athlete in His family. The oldest sister, Jessica, ran track at Coastal Carolina, but he gives his youngest sister Karis, a volleyball player at Clemson, the best athlete award for the Watson family. He doesn’t even give himself the best male athlete award. Ben said that would go to his oldest brother, who chose to not play sports and is now with an NBC affiliate in Charlotte, North Carolina. The two youngest of the Watson’s are also boys, with Asa just finishing his football career at North Carolina State. Like his brother, Asa plays tight end and actually just signed a free agent contract with Ben’s first team, the New England Patriots. With all the athletes in one family, it’s hard to get everyone home at once. However, with their upbringing, it doesn’t matter where they live for his message to continue to get carried out. “My parents instilled in us early the fact that we were always to serve people in different ways, whether that be giving of our time or money,” Watson said. “Whatever it is, God has given us many things, talents and blessings, and we must be compassionate to people about tell people about Him.” With a grandfather like Ken and a dad like Ben, it’s safe to say Grace, Naomi, Isaiah and Judah will be carrying the chain of love throughout their lives, too. JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 97
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Off the Wall
The Twin City Art Foundation hosted its 5th annual Off the Wall fundraiser for the Masur Museum of Art. This fabulous event, held at the Masur, featured a silent auction of wonderful art by local, national and international artists! The evening included great live music by Rocket 88 of Oxford, MS, and the always popular Bon Voyage Trip Raffle. Proceeds from the fundraiser support exhibitions and educational programs at the Masur Museum of Art.
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On the BayouScene
1 Ann Bloxom Smith and Arely Castillo Vargas 2 Mara Loeb and Dr. Bob Eisenstadt 3 Kevin Reddic Jr. and Nelita Bailey 4 Robert Riddle and Gretchen Dean 5 Jim and Nelsie Bershen 6 Grisham Lenard and Alissa Sutton Russell 7 Evie Stewart, Jorenda Stone and Marilyn Stern 8 Cli Tresner, Christian and Mary Dunn, Frank Hamrick 9 Kelsea McCrary, Anu and Shirish Lal 10 Charlie and Kay McDonald 11 Emily Caldwell, Charles Heck and Doug Caldwell 12 Jenna Fincher, Rachel Spencer, Marguerite Hogue and Tess Stickney 13 Michael Echols and Mary Ann Riddle 14 Wayne and Jeanette Buckley 15 Robbie and Angela McBroom, Lindsey and Mala Torrence 16 Marianne Jones, Cecil and Annetta Hill 17 Mike Walsworth and Michael Echols 18 Jane Elisabeth Sanchez and E. Orum Young
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Ballet Under the Stars
The moon and stars shone brightly on Twin City Ballet Company’s fabulous Ballet Under the Stars which took place the weekend after Easter at Kiroli Park’s lakeside Ballet Amphitheatre. Capacity crowds filled the outdoor theatre both Friday and Saturday nights to see ballet company members perform amazing dance choreographed by dance luminaries Joe Istre, Diane Maroney-Grigsby, Leah Alsup and up-and-coming choreographer Leah Stephens, a talented artist-inresidence with the company. On Saturday night, patrons were treated to a post-performance dinner beneath a giant tent decorated with gorgeous flowering plants from Panzico’s and Kiroli’s even taller pines. Catered by Randall’s, guests dined on Louisiana specialties at burlap covered tables decorated with daisy filled mason jars tied in raffia and votives designed by Susan Lolley. Of course the event came off without a hitch under the direction of Kay Harrison who has 5 chaired the event for over 17 years! Kiroli Park was in splendid form thanks to Doug Seegers, Christy Nichols and the busy as bees park staff.
On the BayouScene
1 Jenna and Billy Justice 2 Jodi Wright and Chery Denson 3 Joe, Linda and Johnnye Ford 4 Tommy and Melanie Usrey with Bill Street 5 Chip and Lila Strode 6 Mary Ann Brown, Sue Ellen and Rod Cascio 7 Bill and Michelle Harvey and Johnnye Ford 8 Sarah Cady, Peyton Braswell, Cathy and Steve Whipple, Archie and Lucy Brown, Anne Brown and Patrick Whipple 9 Barrie and Blaine Brennan, Emma Barham 10 Linda Lou and Sam Bourland 11 Ana Bernal Vines and Meredith Pilcher 12 Nicole and Abagail Creighton 13 Meg and Mary Margaret Hayden
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Brown Bag Concert
It's not May without the Brown Bag Concert Series, held each Wednesday in April at the Anna Gray Noe Park in downtown Monroe. Situated on two acres of beautiful manicured lawns, the Brown Bag Concerts have become a staple of Spring in Monroe. Tommy Fields was on hand for one such concert, and crowds enjoyed his tunes as they munched their way through picnic lunches under clear Louisiana Spring skies. Sponsored by area businesses including Community Trust Bank and CenturyLink, the City of Monroe also provides support for the concert series. Businesses and organizations situated in the downtown area also get involved, with complementary tea and lemonade provided by First Baptist Church of Monroe and freshly baked cookies from TruCare Home Health. The concert series is organized annually by the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council.
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1 Lisa Dixion, Georgia Street and Pam Kearney 2 Jean New and Cindy Aicher 3 Kim Hinson and Heather Trichell 4 Lanell and Ray Armstrong 5 Ericka Lyles, Ella Reed and Adrian Washington 6 Leslie and Henry Bauman, Jack Averitt 7 Entertainment by Tommy Fields 8 Pam Kearney, Tommy Fields, Georgia Street, Lisa Dixon and Meg Breard 9 Karen, Olivia and Casey Stevens 10 Kim Hockensmith, Kristie McGough, Karla and J.P. Christiansen
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Wish You Were Here
On Monday, May 5th, the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau, Monroe Chamber of Commerce and West Monroe/West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce hosted a “Tourism is Business” Chamber After Hours event. In addition, Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne was also on-hand to announce and present the awards for the CVB’s “Wish you Were Here” photo contest. Neal Hollimon was named the Grand Prize winner for his photo, Bayou Trails. First place was awarded to Chris Ringo for RiverMarket Fireworks. Rebekah Landry’s photo Landry Vineyard Concert won second place. Congratulations winners and thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s contest.
On the BayouScene
1 Lt. Govenor Jay Dardenne, Alana Cooper and Neal Holliman 2 Leesa Patterson, Stacy Medaries and Karen Laban 3 Scott Bruscato and Ralph Calhoun 4 Chris Ringo 5 Staci Mitchell and Libby Landry 6 Penny Jones and Terri Coates
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Friends of KEDM Beer Tasting
Sample Beers from Around the World and Celebrate Summer
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HAT BETTER WAY TO GET THE SUMMER GOING than by getting together with friends and trying out new beers? As the weather heats up, Friends of KEDM cools it down at the seventh annual Summer Beer Tasting at Marsala Beverage on Thursday, June 12 from 6 to 8 p.m. “We’re excited for people to have a chance to try out new things,” says Tyler Flemister, vice-president of marketing for Marsala. “Each beer is unique, and each brewer works hard in experimenting for just the right flavor – from fruit to flowers, even coffee and chocolate.” The staff from Marsala has a huge selection of beers to sample, featuring Louisiana-brewed ales, as well as beers from around the world. Featured brewers include New Belgium, Stella Artois, Tin Roof, Saint Arnold, Lazy Magnolia and Shock Top. Many of the brewers will be on hand to answer questions about how the idea for each beer was conceived and to talk about the brewing process. Once again, Rhoda Brown brings his mouth-watering barbeque. Rhoda is two-time People's Choice winner at “Memphis in May” and was featured on TLC's BBQ Pitmasters. Be quick, though, because when it’s gone, it’s gone! Talented singer and songwriter Zach O’Neil, a native of Simsboro, Louisiana, provides live entertainment during the event. Friends of KEDM President Babbette Adcock says, “This is such a great way to get into Summer, with good friends, great beers, live music and barbeque!” Adcock adds, “We’re so grateful for Marsala Beverage for all of their help putting this together this year.” Admission is $10, with barbeque plates also available for $10. Marsala Beverage is at 825 Stone Avenue, near the Monroe Civic Center. Proceeds from the event will benefit 90.3 KEDM Public Radio. KEDM Development Director Lila Strode says, “We’re tremendously fortunate to have a loyal crowd of patrons, members and friends of KEDM to support this unique event. We only ask that you show up looking to find your new favorite beer!”
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Jackson...The City with Soul
Jackson,MS Offers a Variety of Events This Summer
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ACKSON, MS OFFERS A MYRIAD OF events this summer to quench the thirst of travelers seeking to satisfy their collective interests. Jackson has incredible arts events, one-of-a kind exhibits, wondrous attractions, exceptional eateries, an array of accommodations, and more! Visit the Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center featured in CNN’s 50 States, 50 Spots for 2014. Jackson affords visitors the experience of world-class events with a small-town charm. Kicking the summer off in June, literally, the dance world comes to Jackson as America’s official International Ballet Competition celebrating 35 years. Ninety-nine dancers, representing 20 countries, have accepted the invitation to participate in the 2014 USA IBC June 14-29. This event is held every four years
and is synonymous with the discovery of new talents and the launching of careers. June 14 –August 31, the Mississippi Museum of Art will present Norman Rockwell: Murder in MS. This iconic exhibit illuminates the artist’s creative process as he was commissioned to provide an illustration for LOOK Magazine after the murder of three civil rights activists on June 21, 1964. This event evoked the Summer Project of 1964, known as Freedom Summer. The 50th year of this event will be commemorated with a conference, exhibits and events throughout the city June 25-29. The two-day premier Jackson Rhythm and Blues Festival is set for August 15-16 with a stellar music mix with over 30 Artists, including Ziggy Marley, FANTASiA, Shannon McNally, Curtis Salgado, Marc Broussard,
Bobby Rush, and Denise LaSalle on 5 stages, including 3 indoor, air-conditioned venues, transformed into Juke Joints! Get your taste buds ready for the 20th Annual Ice Cream Safari, July 12 at the Jackson Zoo. Local celebs will scoop the top Blue Bell flavors for your vote. This is a fun-family event! The local cuisine is classic Southern, ranging from satisfying Soul Food to creative Southern Fusion, to international fare with a Southern flair. “Guy’s Grocery Games” champion, Chef Tom Ramsey’s restaurant is here, LaFinestra, along with The Mayflower’s Comeback Sauce, recently featured in New York Times. Life in this city pulses with music— gospel, blues, rock, jazz, classical and everything in between—born from a tradition steeped in the arts. Scores of unique museums and outdoor attractions, hundreds of events and festivals, three historic cultural districts, innumerable visual and performing arts, hot sports action and cool nightlife await you in Jackson, the City with Soul.
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Nightstands and Coffee Tables Four Masterpieces to Becoming a Well-Rounded Reader
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by Michael DeVault
ITTING AT A DINNER PARTY, YOU hear two friends discussing characters and events that sound familiar, and you start to play closer attention. They're talking about a book, a classic that maybe you were supposed to have read when you were in high school. But you didn't. Consigned to silence, you think to yourself, "This sounds like a good story. I wish I had read it." Who hasn't been there, right? With Summer just around the corner, now is as good a time as any to knock the dust off of Hemingway and Fitzgerald, snuggle up with Mr. Steinbeck, or get to know Nabokov and Walker. Here are fourmasterpieces of 20th Century literature that every serious reader should read.
For Whom the Bell Tolls Ernest Hemingway When it comes to American literature, no author stands taller in the nation's consciousness than Hemingway, who towers over the 20th Century a literary colossus. Hemingway won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1954 for his body of short stories, nonfiction and novels, including The Old Man and the Sea. But many critics agree that Hemingway reached 104 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
his pinnacle with For Whom the Bell Tolls, his 1940 novel about the Spanish Revolution. In the book, Robert Jordan is an American professor of Spanish who also happens to be an explosives expert, skilled with the demolition of bridges and tunnels. When a communist leader instructs Jordan to travel behind enemy lines to destroy several critical bridges, Jordan falls into a guerilla camp of revolutionaries and meets a woman. Jordan is a true believer of the revolutionaries' cause, but his compatriots in the camp are anything but, and the leader, Pablo, refuses the mission. Jordan convinces the rebel camp to aid him in the bridge attack, but it's too late and the group is ambushed, placing Jordan into a precarious and ultimately life-threatening decision. For Whom the Bell Tolls is a gripping, gutwrenching war story that betrays the realities of warfare, the danger of loyalty and the price of civil wars. In frequent poetic flourishes, Hemingway paints scenes that transport the reader from the comfort of their home to the stark, battle-ravaged forests of Spain at the height of Franco's revolution. This masterpiece is a must-read for anyone interested in warfare or good literature.
The Great Gatsby F. Scott Fitzgerald If the recent Baz Lurhmann flick caught your eye and set your toes tapping, you're in for a real treat with the F. Scott Fitzgerald masterpiece The Great Gatsby. Fitzgerald captures the zeitgeist of the Roaring Twenties in this novel, which he published at the height of the Jazz Age in 1925. In the book, the author tackles lives of excess, greed and covetousness while presenting readers with a love story that defined a generation. Jay Gatsby is a mysterious, wealthy benefactor in Long Island's "less fashionable" West Egg, a fictional village in which the young, rich and powerful flaunt their wealth and display a wanton disregard for Prohibition. But Jay's ulterior motives are the stuff of legend. He hopes to woo his long-lost love, Daisy Buchanan, who is married to Tom, a socialite who lives in the more fashionable—and aristocratically connected—East Egg, across the water. Chaos ensues when Daisy, torn between Jay and Tom, confides in her cousin, the book's narrator Nick Carraway. Will Daisy choose Jay and flee to a life of love? Or will she choose Tom and set into motion a series of events that will lead, inexorably, to tragedy? Many readers slogged through The Great Gatsby's hundred or so pages over summer reading in high school. But for the adult
reader, Fitzgerald presents a cautionary tale about the dangers of pursuing lost youth, of love and of loose morals. It's easy to see in a close reading the parallels between Fitzgerald's Roaring Twenties and today's rampant consumer culture. Revisit this masterpiece, and you're sure to come away with a different view of the world today.
The Grapes of Wrath John Steinbeck In the waning days of the Great Depression, John Steinbeck presented readers with a realistic, harsh look at the reality of life in the Dust Bowl. The Grapes of Wrath earned Steinbeck a National Book Award, the Pulitzer Prize, and was cited as an example of why Steinbeck received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1962, almost thirty years after the book first appeared. The Joad family has fallen on hard times. Tenant farmers from Oklahoma, they load up the family wagon and head West, with the hopes of finding success or escape from a crippling drought in California. Tom, the protagonist, has just earned parole from prison, where he was serving time for murder, and he
arrives at the family homestead to find it deserted. He and his traveling companion follow the great Route 66 overland road to find his family, though doing so risks breaking parole if he leaves Oklahoma. Tom departs anyway and, ultimately, recognizes the futility of the family's efforts. Tom goes on the run, pledging to become a fearless advocate of the downtrodden, the mistreated and the oppressed. With three quarters of the nation currently experiencing a major drought event, and coming on the heels of a major economic downturn, The Grapes of Wrath presents contemporary readers with a stunning picture of a world turned upside down by the one-two punch of a faltering economic and manmade ecological disaster. With his novel, Steinbeck cemented himself as one of the masters of the naturalist school of literature and secured a place in the nation's canon of great works. The Color Purple Alice Walker Unless you lived under a rock in 1985, you heard of the film adaptation of Alice Walker's epic novel The Color Purple. If the film is your only exposure, to this monumental
book, chronicles the lives of African-American women in the South of the 1930s, a time when the idea of Civil Rights was a distant dream, is a great choice for summer reading. Celie is a poor, ignorant girl of just 14 living with an abusive man she believes is her father. She is married off to a man identified in the book only as Mr. ___. Celie's sister, Nettie, also flees Alphonso's house, but Celie's home with Mr. ___ offers little in the way of protection, and Celie sends Nettie to live with a wealthy black woman in town. Over the course of years, Celie recounts the lives of herself, Nettie, Sophia and Corrine, four women who decide, ultimately, that their lives are what they make them窶馬ot what some man gives them. Told from Celie's perspective in a series of letters addressed to God, The Color Purple earned Alice Walker a National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize. The film version was nominated for eleven Academy Awards, though it failed to win a single Oscar. Fifteen years later, a musical version of the story took Broadway by storm, where it was nominated for an ironic 11 Tonys, and the play won all 11 awards.
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Summer Treats PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOLI LIVAUDAIS & ARTICLE BY MICHAEL DEVAULT
Unseasonably cold temperatures in May might have put a damper on thoughts of Summer, but with the mercury rising, cool weather could be just about ready to give way to a scorching hot summer. But don't despair. BayouLife has a way to help you beat the heat, with tasty, delicious frozen treats. No matter your heart's—or taste buds'—desires, we've got it covered. From icy, milky concoctions to dairyfree, gluten-free probiotics, BayouLife has taken the time and sacrificed waistlines to take the guesswork out of your next ice cream excursion. 106 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
Step back in time
and take a walk through the 1950s at the Creamery, on Forsythe Avenue in Monroe, where you can reminisce about the Good Old Days or travel back in time with a group of friends. With its chrome-lined booths and classic wrap-around bar, you'd be forgiven if you think the Creamery has been there for decades. But the restaurant first opened its doors in 2005, and it quickly became a community fixture. Renee Hogg has worked at the Creamery for five years, and in that time she says she's enjoyed getting to know some of the regulars. She is especially fond of the nostalgic atmosphere and the memories that it triggers in some of the customers. "It's an atmosphere where you can bring your children, your grandchildren," Hogg says. "The 50’s theme is popular." On this particular afternoon, music from the musical Grease is streaming over the sound system. At the counter, high school students pour over textbooks in preparation for final exams. At a booth near the front, an elderly woman and her son are eating ice cream after burgers. And that's exactly what the Creamery is about, according to Hogg. More than twenty flavors of hand-dipped ice cream are available in the freezer. There are the traditionals of Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry, and mixed in are more exotic flavors—like Toffee and Crazy Berry. And what's that peeking from around the corner by the soda machine? Is that a Malt machine? "Our absolute most popular is the Chocolate-Vanilla Shake," says Hogg. Scoops of vanilla ice cream are blended with chocolate syrup to create this popular and timeless dessert. Another favorite Hogg says is the Banana Split, with its three big scoops of ice cream served over a banana, topped with whipped cream, cherries, and syrup. For a smaller treat, consider the Hot Fudge Sundae, with nuts and whipped cream and a cherry. If it all sounds traditional, that's by design. When you step into the Cream-
ery, you should feel like you've stepped back in time a little. In addition to ice cream treats, the Creamery also serves a full-service menu of what Hogg calls "Americana" food. Hot dogs, fries and Frito Pie are served alongside one of the best hamburgers in northeastern Louisiana. For a delectable and diet-busting lunch, order up a cheese burger, curly fries and a root beer float. In keeping with the 50’s theme, it'll all be dished up by a waitress with a smile. "This is the place where good food and good service never goes out of style," Hogg says.
RENEE HOGG
HOT FUDGE SUNDAE
HAND-DIPPED ICE CREAM More than twenty flavors of ice cream await those looking for a cool treat at The Creamery. JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 107
Rushing home
from work, your car beeps at you and, suddenly, you realize you're almost out of gas. So, you swing into the Chevron station on the corner of Highway 165 and Forsythe Avenue. After filling up at the pump, the scent of something catches your attention. Coffee. More precisely, good coffee and fresh baked bread. Intrigued, you head for the front door. It's been a long day at the office and a cup of Joe sounds good right now. Stepping inside, you're expecting a convenience store, with its rows of shelves stocked with those necessities you can't live without. Instead, you're shocked at what you find. Along one wall, banks of coffee machines brew coffee in combinations even Starbucks hasn't imagined. Another wall, another surprise, with a full-service sandwich bar, where a friendly server passes a Panini to a smiling customer. And along the back row, tucked between the Icee machine and the soda cooler, there's a yogurt bar. Co-owner Jared Evans laughs when he thinks about the times travelers have stopped, only to find themselves buying gas at a restaurant. He admits that, many times, people aren't quite sure what to expect. So, he and his crew have developed a solution. "We walk samples out to the pumps and introduce people to the product right there," Evans says. "I don't think they come to a Chevron looking for probiotic frozen yogurt." But that's exactly what they're getting at the Daily Press, our final stop on the tour of sweet treats. The Daily Press began as a wild idea just two years ago, when Benny Evans began to explore ideas of breaking away from the traditional convenience-store-gas-station combination. What he came up with was a coffee and sandwich shop, tucked inside an existing Chevron. It was a risky move, abandoning the traditional convenience store setup, but it's one that has paid off. Two years in, Jared says they're looking at new concepts and to expand the Daily Press model to other holdings throughout the state. One of the
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biggest surprises so far has been the success of that yogurt bar. And, unlike many offerings from their competitors, the yogurt dished out at the Daily Press isn't a mix. It's a live-culture yogurt. "There's no powder or cream mixing going on here," Jared brags. "They're all real products." That means anything contained in the name will be in the yogurt itself, from pineapple to pretzels. Pretzels? "Yes. If it says pretzel in the name, it's got real pretzel in it," Jared says. The Daily Press offers customers a choice of 14 flavors and seven complimentary flavor combinations for a total of 21 offerings. Each machine is marked with what Jared calls "the code," so that customers know what they're getting. "NF" stands for non-fat and "LF" for low-fat. There are NSA yogurts for those avoiding added sugar, and there are ND offerings, too, for the lactose wary. Pick your flavor, fill your cup and then step on over to the toppings bar, where you can dress it up with flavored syrups, whipped cream and more than thirty sprinkled toppings. If you're nervous about probiotic yogurt, we suggest dropping by between the hours of 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., for Happy Hour. "All yogurt and espresso coffee drinks are half off," Jared says. If you're looking for a quick dinner, step up to one of the handy touch screens, order a few Paninis for the family, and watch as your sandwich comes to life before you, all prepared with the freshest ingredients available. Jared is quick to point that out because, unlike other convenience stores, "There's no pre-packaged here." On this late afternoon, after traveling from custard stand to coffee shop, it is time for a healthy dinner—and one that is, hopefully, low calorie, too. The Daily Press solution is a heaping scoop of chicken salad, served atop a bed of fresh, leafy greens, and surrounded by fruits, nuts and delicious feta cheese. And maybe some Wild Berry Sorbet for dessert.
JARED EVANS
PROBIOTIC YOGURT
ESPRESSO COFFEE DRINKS
Out for a stroll
after dinner at Portico's or Pie Works? Maybe that's when your sweet tooth strikes and you find yourself on the sidewalk, bathed in the warm, inviting glow of Orange Leaf on Tower Drive. Step inside, and chances are you'll find Brad or Amy Lawrence chatting up customers while dishing out desserts. Whatever you can imagine, chances are you can create it at their shop, a serve-yourself frozen yogurt buffet. "You're the master of your creation here," says Amy. Her particular favorite? Carrot Cake yogurt with marshmallow cream and marshmallows on top. But, she grants, some people are nervous about marshmallows and frozen yogurt. And that's okay, too. "That's the great thing about it. It's totally individualized." Brad takes another tack about the family business. He says his favorite part of the Orange Leaf experience so far has been working with new employees. "I like the way we teach the kids to work here," Brad says. "We're the first job experience a lot of these kids have." That includes the couple’s four sons, all of whom have worked for the Orange Leaf location on Tower Drive. Yogurt machines churn all day to produce soft-serve yogurt in more than two dozen flavors and combinations. The national best seller is Cheesecake, which is always on tap. Also perennial favorites include vanilla, chocolate and classic tart yogurt. Patrons serve themselves in Orange Leaf bowls, waffle bowls or waffle cones, and then they make their way past the toppings bar before paying and receiving their signature, Orange Leaf yogurt shovel, which Amy reminds is biodegradable—though that hasn't stopped customers from saving them and collecting them. Just make sure to hand wash them, she cautions, because they'll melt in the dishwasher. Most of the Orange Leaf products are gluten free. Also, they offer several varieties that are
non-fat or non-dairy. There's something for everyone, Brad says. Orange Leaf even offers no-sugar-added flavors for those who are mindful of sugar intake. Over the loud speakers, "Disco Inferno" plays as the first post-lunch customers straggle in. Amy says the music is part of the fun, hip atmosphere, which makes Orange Leaf the perfect place for a birthday party or fundraiser. Orange Leaf also caters to students, with 10% discounts on Tuesdays for high schoolers and high school staffers, and a similar 10% discount for college students and faculty on Thursdays. They also give customers the chance to earn points and discounts through a loyalty card program. Brad encourages local nonprofits and school groups to inquire about fundraisers at Orange Leaf. "They call us and anyway we can
WAFFLE BOWL
BRAD AND AMY LAWRENCE The owners of Orange Leaf in Monroe offer something for everyone including gluten-free yogurt.
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TRASH CAN SUNDAE This tasty sundae is one of Eskamoe’s most popular items - a whipped cream topped delicacy complete with a set of candy eyes.
KELLE MESSER
Our taste buds
tour takes us to Eskamoe's, where we meet up with owner Kelle Messer, who's just about to get the day kicked off in a sweet way—and by sweet way, we mean Frozen Custard sweet. Kelle and her husband Dan started Eskamoe's more than 12 years ago, with a single location on Forsythe Avenue. Response to their offerings was overwhelming and, within just a few years, the Messers have grown to a chain of four family-run stores. Their secret? It's in the cooler, that right now is churning out ribbons of chocolate, vanilla and cake batter frozen custard. "It's a super-premium ice cream," says Kelle, of Eskamoe's offering. A scooped product, frozen custard contains egg yolks, which add to the creaminess of the ice cream. Also, at 19 degrees, it's a balmy ice cream compared to others. "It's served at a warmer temperature than typical ice cream." The warmer temperature prevents the taste buds from freezing, which means you can enjoy more of the flavorful deliciousness longer. Also, ice cream headaches are less frequent, so chow down. Kelle adds that a warmer serving temperature isn't the only unique aspect to their frozen custard. Typically, manufacturers inject air to increase volume. "We don't, so ours is a very dense product," Kelle says. Eskamoe's serves up scooped custard in bowls, in waffle cones and in any number of confection-laced concoctions. One of their most popular products right now is the Trash Can Sundae, a whipped cream topped delicacy aimed at the younger set. "The kids go crazy over them," Kelle says. Served in a plastic trash bin, topped
with whipped cream, and finished with a set of candy eyes, the Trash Can Sundae calls to mind images of Oscar the Grouch from Sesame Street. Trash Cans come in three colors, though Kelle says they tried for a while to discourage kids from ordering a specific color. Too often, though, the kids say they've got a particular color or are missing a different one. So, like any good hostess, Kelle tries to oblige. For the older customers, it's all about the Arctic Turtle, a custard-andfudge heaven of roasted pecans, whipped cream and cherries. Since they opened, the Arctic Turtle has been a persistent best-seller, and if you only order one thing on the menu, it's a good bet. Unlike some of their competition, Kelle says Eskamoe's is targeted at life on the go. Patrons place their orders at the window—not at the menu several cars back—and a friendly server prepares their order on the spot. "So you're going to get the freshest treat, made right to your order, and it won't be melted away by the time we hand it to you," Kelle says. There are picnic seating areas outside the window, but seating is limited. Instead, Kelle says she recognized from her own life as a mother the need for "treats on the go," which is one of the reasons they picked an ice cream stand concept for their business. "We were looking for something fun," says Kelle. "And who doesn't like it when you're getting ice cream?" In addition to ice cream treats, Eskamoe's serves a food menu of what Kelle calls "quick" foods, including pulled pork sandwiches, hot dogs, chili dogs and Frito Pies.
ARCTIC TURTLE This custard and fudge concoction can be served in a waffle bowl and is topped with roasted pecans, whipped cream and cherries. JUNE 2014 BayouLife Magazine 111
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BASH 2014
Hundreds of guested showed up April 26 at JPS Hangar #9 for the 18th Annual Bash, hosted by the Northeast Louisiana chapter of the American Red Cross. The military-themed BASH has become a staple of the spring party scene, and this year was no exception. Patrons dined on grilled steak and chicken provided by the folks at Outback Steakhouse. Also, visitors enjoyed libations provided by some of the area's premier brands. Meanwhile, they took a stroll through the more than 200 items donated for the silent auction, including gift baskets, home dĂŠcor items and more than a few sports packages. Entertainment came by way of crowd favorite, Luv Sexy, one of the most popular party bands in the South. Hailing from New Orleans, Luv Sexy wowed the audience with dance numbers and party favorites from the 60s through today. And, like always, General Anne Patten was on hand to make sure people had a good time, ate plenty and showed their support for the American Red Cross.
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On the BayouScene
1 Misty Owens, Rachel Russell, Carol-Ann Barnes and Brittany Ramsey 2 Wes Martin, Carrie Siudy and Joe King Montgomery 3 Tammy Soignier, Amy Neal and Scott Sumrall 4 Brad Shows, Sarah Johnson, Stephan and Lauren Wall, Jess Brodnax and Topher Cagle 5 Micheal Craig, Dana Evans, Brittany and Dillon Evans 6 Kate McClelland and Erica Hoag 7 Cully Graceson and Rod Jenkins 8 Teri and Cully Graceson, Debra and Landon Wood 9 Crystal Harper, Amy Horstkamp, Patrick Horstkamp and Scott Savanna 10 Brandon Garcia, Alex Ruhl, Marcus Pope, Christina Monroe, Sarah Embry, Katherine Connors, Brooke Wilcher and Alicia Johnson 11 Sadye Richert, Jodee Bruyninckx and Ashley West 12 Josh Varnado and Amy Jabbia 13 Joshua Mitchell and Victoria Smith 14 Judy Wagoner and Dr. Victor Zuckerman
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Blend of the Bayou
The Men Who Cook, Men Who Brew and Men Who Mix took over the beautiful Island Drive home of Dr. Walter and Sue Sartor for the annual Blend of the Bayou celebration, which benefits the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council. More than one hundred grill masters, cooks and drink mixers donned their aprons for the event, serving up locally brewed beers, specialty lemonade and more than a few delicious morsels. If it could go on a grill, chances are someone was grilling it. There were pork loins marinated in secret combinations of ingredients. Mahi Mahi sizzled from another grill. Across the way, there were stuffed mushrooms, cheesecakes and beignets. There were even vegetarian options for those who eschew meat. The Sartor family driveway became an art gallery, featuring works from area artists like Lacey Stinson and Caroline Youngblood. Local favorite Mason Granade and his band were on hand to provide entertainment for the 17th Annual Blend of the Bayou celebration.
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On the BayouScene
1 Steve Mintz and Johnette Sellar 2 Pam Maunz and Patti Nelson 3 Wes an Claire Brockman 4 Michael DeVault and Lori French 5 Ashley and Hayes West 6 Courtney Curry and Susan Crawford 7 Mike and Susan Healey, Doug Seegers and Holly Healey 8 Charles and Brenda Marsala, Julie Kicey 9 Phyllis Gordon, Sylvia Thompson, Susie Cumpton and Melanie Kalil 10 Michael Sandifer, Melanie Liles and Bart Liles 11 Burg Ransom, Margaret Lauve, Adele Ransom and Carol Layton Parsons 12 Megan Smith and JW Perry 13 Janelle and George Snellings 14 Shelby, Wilson, Christine and Jarod Rambo 15 Margaret Ellis and Leigh Ann Go, Taylor Grace Harris 16 Maggie Zentner and Hunt Neely 17 Amber Salas and Delisa McGuire
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Wine Over Water
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The threat of a little inclement weather couldn't dampen spirits at the University of Louisiana-Monroe, when it hosted its annual Wine Over Water fundraiser. While the annual Alumni Association event is usually held on the bridge across Bayou Desiard, this year's event moved indoors, to Fant-Ewing Coliseum. Attendees enjoyed wines from area vendors and hors d’oeuvres while taking in the tunes of the Memphis-based Funk de Ville. Prior to the main event, patron-level sponsors also enjoyed panoramic views as they hobnobbed at a private party in the ULM Conference Center on the 7th floor. Proceeds from the event each year go to benefit the ULM "Spirit of the Warhawk" scholarship, a general scholarship awarded annually by the ULM Scholarship Committee. Now in its 9th year, Wine Over Water has grown into a ULM tradition and is one of the university's most visible community events.
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1 Linda Bruno, Linda Holyfield and Nick Bruno 2 Quentin and Janie Holmes 3 Matt Braunscheidel and Maggie Warren 4 John and Wendi Tilmon, Mike Moore, Valerie Matherne and Jay Russell 5 Meg and Ben Doughty 6 Tyler Flemister and Genny Marioneaux 7 Ron and Christine Berry 8 DJ Fortenberry and Justin Williams 9 Michele and Tripper Lowentritt 10 Ashley and Frederick West, Stewart Cathey Jr. 11 Jay and Staci Mitchell 12 Heather and G.G. Grant, Megan Jeffcoat 13 Caleb Clark and Arely Castillo 14 Ashley Sutton and Amanda Bethea
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Dress Up 2 Cure
Recently, Montessori of West Monroe held Dress Up 2 Cure – A Fundraiser with Girl Power 2 Cure in honor of Hannah Hooks. In December, Hannah was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome, a debilitating neurological disorder that primarily affects girls. It is the most severe form of Autism that takes away the girls’ ability to walk, talk and use their hands. Research has proven that Rett Syndrome is reversible, which is why raising money for a cure is so extremely important. Students, teachers and parents, along with local businesses raised a total of $2,200 for Rett Syndrome Research Trust in honor of Hannah. Local businesses that made donations for the event included Johnny's Pizza, Spherion, Teresa's Flooring, Dr. E. H. Baker, Counter Culture and First Presbyterian Church of Monroe.
On the BayouScene
1 Cindy and Caroline Vance, Sherry Holton 2 Students and teachers at Montessori of West Monroe 3 Lily Neal, Nancy Griggs and Hudson Hooks 4 Hannah Hooks 5 Conlan Gillespie 6 Hudson Hooks 7 Arabella Butler
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ARTICLE BY MARY NAPOLI PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOLI LIVAUDAIS
FRIDAY ELLIS
The most congenial cigar smoker and tobacco connoisseur in town is Friday Ellis, proprietor of Governors Cigar and Pipe.
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CLOCKWISE FROM THIS PHOTO: A wide range of pipes are available including this work of art by master carver, Ismet Bekler. There is a smoking room available for those who want to get away and watch the game. have a drink and puff a cigar. Owner of Governors Cigar and Pipe, Friday Ellis, poses in the walk-in humidor.
T
he people of Cuba have a saying: "Where there's good smoke, there's a cigar smoker."
The most congenial cigar smoker and tobacco connoisseur in town is Friday Ellis, proprietor of Governors Cigar and Pipe. The establishment, located at the corner of Oliver Road and Forsythe, has a modern feel with old school sensibilities. Governors is new to the scene, but has many locals talking. It’s the place to go to find a topnotch selection of fragrant loose tobacco, pipes that have been hand carved in far away lands, high quality lighters and cigar clippers, and a distinguished selection of cigars chosen by Ellis, whose discerning palate and vast knowledge of cigars is quite remarkable. Friday Ellis is something of a throwback to a more genteel generation. Dripping with old Southern charm and a door’s-always-open disposition, it is hard to believe Ellis has ever met a stranger. He has a gift for gab and an appreciation for craftsmanship and quality that are not often found in folks his age. Although in his 30s, he can spin a comical tale much like your grandfather might. Perhaps this has something to do with his tightly knit relationship with his father, Oliver "Friday" Ellis, who raised his son in Rayville. Ellis says with a soft smile, "He and I were cut from the same cloth. We were really close. Me and that man were down like four flat tires. He was such a character...a charmer and a true Southern gentleman. " Ellis' memories of his late father partially served as inspiration when it came to finding a name for his business. "One of this things Louisiana is known for is its colorful political history, our governors in particular. My dad was an old Southern Democrat and loved his photos with Edwin Edwards. When I came up with the name "Governors," the associations were endless." Upon entering the cigar and pipe establishment, a black and white photo of Huey P. Long smiling with some pals is on display. Ellis plans to continue to fills his walls with other behind the scenes photos, but it is what he has in mind for his own line of cigars that is most interesting. "The first cigar I would like to create will be named the "Kingfish," after Governor Long. What do you think of when you think of him? Huge personality. I want to use a big, bold Nicaraguan, spicy tobacco. Another cigar would be named for Governor Jimmie Davis, who always makes people think of "You Are My Sunshine." For that cigar, I would use a sun grown wrapper," Ellis explains with excitement. It is obvious that his enthusiasm and passion for the product, as well as his creativity, is limitless. Cigars are not a temporary fascination for Ellis. After completing his service with the Marine Corp, he moved to Kansas City with his beautiful wife, Ashley. As fate would have it, Ellis happened upon a man who was an experienced cigar enthusiast and took Ellis under his wing and further developed his interest in tobacco. "In Kansas City, I met a guy who hand rolled cigars and sent them out all over the country for establishments to use as their house cigars.
That is where my real education began. He taught me so much about the process and how to actually roll cigars," says Ellis. He claims to still be an apprentice, but his knowledge on the history of tobacco and the art of harvesting, aging and rolling tobacco is incredible. "Its an educational process," explains Ellis. "I feel about cigars the way some people do about wine. It all starts with a grape seed or a tobacco seed. The tobacco seed takes on the qualities of the soil and water the same ways that the grape seed does. The flavor begins to develop the moment that seed is planted." He eloquently explains how each tobacco leaf has its own particular flavor profile and that the combination of various leaves is what gives each cigar a particular taste. Layers of flavorful leaves are blended to impart notes of oakiness, spiciness, sweetness or bitterness, among others. Ellis seems to know nearly everything about each cigar he carries and is happy to educate his customers on how the different sizes and shapes effect the flavors of the cigars. "Notice how the caps are differently shaped?" he says, pointing out the end of the cigar that the lips touch. "Some are more pointed, some are more rounded. It’s the same as the opening of a wine glass-the shape affects the flavor." This astute knowledge allows him to be able to expertly recommend cigars for his customers. This keeps them coming back, but it’s not the only thing. Not long after opening, Ellis created the idea of offering "premium memberships" to the smoking room, located in the back of the building. It’s a "man cave" of sorts, rustic and welcoming with comfortable furniture and a large screen tv. The exclusive membership has tempting privileges, which includes 24 hour access to the spacious room. "Last weekend, it was standing room only," says Ellis. "One of the guys suggested I start carrying milk and bread, so he would have another reason to stop in on his way home." Governors is quickly gaining popularity, and Ellis has his own ideas why. "I carry pipes, cigars and tobacco, but what I really sell is an experience," says Ellis. "Cigars are conversational by nature and are a rite of passage in some cultures. We also use them to celebrate special occasions. The other day, I had a young man bring his grandfather in for his birthday. They sat in the back and shared a cigar and talked and talked. That's a conversation they will always remember." Like the product he sells, Ellis is also conversational by nature. He welcomes each of his patrons like old friends and is happy to share amazing and amusing experiences he has had since opening Governors. "I've got enough stories from the last two weeks that I would have never dreamed of happening," says Ellis with a charismatic smile. "It’s those kinds of things that let me know we are here to stay."
Stay up to date with Governors on their website, www.governorscigar.com. They can also be found on facebook, twitter and instagram, or keep it old school and dial 318.355.9869.
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Antique Alley Open House
Shoppers abounded at the annual Spring Open House, on West Monroe's historic Antique Alley shopping district Sunday, May 4. Strolling along the broad sidewalks of Trenton Street, shoppers visited and enjoyed light refreshments provided by the shops, but most importantly, the shoppers hunted for that perfect treasure they've been looking for. Ducking into Spice and Tea Exchange, patrons had a chance to sample the wares, from teas to gourmet salts, and more than a few used the visit as an opportunity to restock the spice racks of their kitchens. Just up the way at Traditions, visitors took in the sights of classic antique furniture and home fixtures while enjoying the soft sounds of jazz. The Antique Alley Association hosts two open houses each year, one in the 5 Spring and one in Fall. The shopping event has grown over the years into an almost festival atmosphere and draws thousands of shoppers to downtown West Monroe, where they browse antique stores, boutiques and art galleries.
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On the BayouScene
1 Jessica and Ellie Grace Pollard with Josh Goldman 2 Juanita Gooding and Desirae Gooding Trappey 3 Susan Aguettant, Brenda and Micheal McMahan 4 Phyllis Kerrigan, Donna Greer and Wilda Alford 5 Randy Stinson and Gloria Madden 6 Caroline Moore and Jeanette Farrar 7 Anne Cookston and Jenny Hood 8 Benay Knowles, Courtney Knowles and Jimmie Wilhite 9 Sandy Winney, Melanie Liles, Pam Wood and Rebecca joiner 10 Dawne Walsworth, Chris Lewis, Wendy Smith, Corbin Walsworth and Patty Fuller 11 Cindy Wilmore and Sarah Lee 12 Leslie King and Angela Harrell
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F I V E E S S E N T I A L S F O R S U M M E R Our key pieces for the season from area boutiques.
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THE JEAN Pair a distressed straight leg jean with a simple white ruana and tank for a classic look. Available at Pearl Pumphrey’s.
photography b y j o l i l i v a u d a i s h&m by meka b e n n e t t model: emily p r e s t r i d g e chairs from m a t e r i a l t h i n g s 122 BayouLife Magazine JUNE 2014
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THE NECKLACE It’s easy to make a statement with a bold accessory. This beautiful piece from Salt & Pepper Accessory Boutique will turn heads this Summer.
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THE ROMPER Beat the summer heat in style with one of the season’s biggest trends – the romper. Find this and more at HerringStone’s.
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THE WEDGE A nude wedge is the perfect shoe for the season’s best looks. Worn with jeans or a dainty dress, these shoes will get you where you need to go. Find them at The Twisted Peacock.
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THE TEE We love a simple, soft tee for Summer. This shirt features a slit waist and solid back with striped front. Find this and more at Bent Oaks Boutiqe.
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Glenwood Medical Group CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34
GLENWOOD NEUROLOGY SPECIALISTS Michael Boykin, MD Neurology Dr. Boykin completed his residency at the Medical College of Virginia and attended Loyola School of Medicine for Neurology. Dr. Boykin’s services include: EEG, NVC/EMG studies, Parkinson’s Disease, headache disorders, strokes, tremors, epilepsy, sleep disorders, myasthenia gravis, ALS, multiple sclerosis and neuropathy.
GLENWOOD PSYCHIATRY Michael B. Wright, MD Psychiatrist Dr. Wright specializes in psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment for adolescents and adults. His services include psychopharmacology and medication management, outpatient consultations, crisis management, psychiatric emergency management and referral and consultations for psychiatric problems related to medical illness. GLENWOOD PULMONARY Ronald Hammett, MD Pulmonary Medicine Dr. Hammett specializes in critical care medicine, internal medicine and pulmonology. His services include treatment of disease and infection of the respiratory tract including cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, asthma, tuberculosis, emphysema and chest infections.
Askin Uysal, MD Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine Dr. Uysal is board certified in critical care medicine, internal medicine and pulmonology. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary (lung) conditions and diseases including COPD, chronic cough, asthma, bronchitis and obstructive sleep apnea. GLENWOOD UROLOGY Edward Rutland, M.D. Urology Dr. Edward Rutland is a board certified urology specialist & the only robotically trained urologist in Northeast Louisiana. His services include the evaluation and treatment of bladder, kidney and prostate cancer, kidney stones, urinary incontinence, vasectomy and erectile dysfunction.
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JGS May Day
The students, staff and families of Jesus the Good Shepherd School borrowed a page from Clark W. Griswold to take a day-long vacation and travel the continent, from New York to Nevada for the 2014 May Day celebration. Parents and students from Pre-K3 to 6th Grade enjoyed a day of fun and festivities, with each class assigned a destination that they represented in song, dance and costume. Disney's "Frozen" and Las Vegas made appearances at destinations that included New York, California, Texas and even an Elvis appearance. Organized by a massive parent's committee, JGS Takes A Vacation was chaired by Beth Swanner. Also, the JGS P.T.O. was on hand with prizes, including a Trip Raffle featuring an $8,000 vacation package that ultimately went to Ainslee Peters. The festivities concluded as the sixth grade class wrapped a traditional May Pole to bring to a close their transition from elementary to junior high school.
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1 Caroline Coon and Fran Turpin 2 Tim and Kelly Southern 3 Roxie and Brinkley Bennett 4 Vickie and Anthony Jacola 5 Barrie Brennan and Reagan Patrick 6 Chris and Sheri Jackson 7 Lori and Charlie French 8 Vickie Barnes and Sue Blackford 9 Carrie Rocconi and Anne Shockley 10 Je and Rebecca Leaumont 11 Christie, William and Emily Brodtman 12 Mark, Missy, Christopher, George and Henry McKenzie 13 Christine Monk and Connie Stokes 14 Audrey Malloy and Annie Ajlani 15 Leslie Trahan and Aimee Anthony 16 Thomas and LaTonya Williams
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Beautiful Skin with Dr. Mickel CONTINUED FROM PAGE 71
retinol (a cousin of retin-A) and the protective effects of sunscreens and antioxidants have been added. There is even a simple regimen for men. We introduced ZO to this area and have used ZO products as our main skin care line for almost a year. The results have been remarkable. To learn more about the new ZO line, we invite you to call Mickel Plastic Surgery at 388-2050 and set up a free skin care consultation with my aesthetician, Natalie Green. Better yet, join us for a wine and cheese open house on Thursday, May 29 at our office in the Garden District. Sample the products and let us help you make the transition from the old Obagi to the new ZO program. Your skin will thank you for it.
BayouKidZ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 70
Children that are challenged with weight control could benefit greatly from the extra time and effort it will take to prepare your meal at home. There are plenty of meal choices that the family can make together, that doesn't include cabbage (I'm not trying to offend the cabbage farmers of America, because I love cabbage), that will encourage healthier food choices that are lower in calories. I've written before about how a person's general health as an adult is overall improved based on their health as a child. In fact, this could be an entire column, but it's just the plain truth...if you are a healthy child, chances are you will enjoy good health as an adult. And as with most every column I write, encouraging families to spend time together at every opportunity is just something I am passionate about. Time spent in the kitchen together, preparing a meal is yet another opportunity for structured family time. Hey, I think Ward and June were on to something in the Cleaver household, having meals together, talking about the events of the day. And finally, eating at home is certainly more economical than eating out, so if you need to appeal to the bread winner in the family as you make an argument for the family to gather in the kitchen to bake some chicken, there's your argument. All these arguments make for a win-win opportunity. In the words of the great culinary genius, Julia Child, "Learn how to cook, try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless and above all, have fun!" So readers, get those notebooks out, plan some weekly meals with your family, carve out some time to prepare it together and enjoy your family time around the table. With this extra effort, your family will be healthier, they will begin to look forward to this time and your pocketbook will be fuller. Just don't be surprised when your friends start comparing you to the Waltons.
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Ronnie Kole Concert
The crowds turned out at Neville High School Saturday, May 10, to witness New Orleans jazz legend Ronnie Kole dominate the keys and tickle the ears of music lovers with a Concert to End Polio. The concert was organized by the Monroe Rotary Club as a benefit for Rotary International's "End Polio Now" campaign, which raises funds to pay for polio vaccinations in countries around the world. A crowd favorite, Kole is a member of the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame and tours extensively. He's best known for stints in Las Vegas, New Orleans, and on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, where he was a frequent guest. Prior to his solo career, Kole frequently appeared with bands led by musical giants such as Al Hirt and Pete Fountain.
On the BayouScene
1 Doug Seegers, Greta Jones and Michael Fox 2 Phyllis Taylor, Frank and Flip Spooner 3 Pat Summerville and Tim Knight 4 Jamie and Judy Orten, Kathy Fox 5 Jeerry Verbios and Rebecca Fuller 6 Dr. Judy Fellows and Brain Fassett 7 Lydia Gilmore and Roger Johnston
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Calendar of Events For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com
June 1 & June 6 The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Six young people in the throes of puberty, overseen by grown-ups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves, learn that winning isn't everything and that losing doesn't necessarily make you a loser. The 25 Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a hilarious tale of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time. Strauss Theatre Center www.strausstheatrecenter.com/ June 5 Downtown Gallery Crawl Time: 5:00 pm-9:00 pm Start visiting nine galleries hosting the Downtown Gallery Crawl on either side of the Ouachita River. On Antique Alley in West Monroe, you can peruse the works of over 30 artists, all part of the Ouachita River Art Gallery. Then, crossing the Endom Bridge and turning right on South Grand, you can visit Livaudais Gallery, which always generously
hosts guest artists. Backtracking a bit to DeSiard Street, you might then stroll down to the Palace Gallery, housed in the historic, now renovated Palace Department Store. Finally, almost directly across DeSiard, you will hit the mother lode—UPSTAIRS, the Big Room, the new Downstairs Gallery + Studio, Arender Gallery, Sugar Gallery, and MAD Gallery—all located on Art Alley (formerly known as North 2nd Street). Downtown Monroe and West Monroe www.downtowngallerycrawl.com June 6-7 Monroe Symphony League Book Fair Time: Friday & Saturday-9:00 am5:00 pm; Sunday-1:00 pm-5:00 pm The Monroe Symphony League Book Fair will be held the first and second weekends in June. Come purchase moderately priced books from a vast array of subjects. Proceeds from the sale benefit the Monroe Symphony Orchestra Monroe Symphony League Book Room
June 7 Landry Vineyards presents: Brian Sivils Time: 4:30 pm-8:00 pm Landry Vineyards winery outdoor concert featuring Brian Sivils. A mix of Blues, Classic Soul and Rock will have you, family and friends dancing all night. Make sure you pack your lawn chair, blanket and picnic dinner and enjoy the outdoor show. Landry's Vineyard www.landryvineyards.com/ June 7-8 Kevin Blackwell Team Roping Time: All day starting at-9:00 am Join the fun at the Ike Hamilton Expo Center with Kevin Blackwell Team Roping. Family and friends are all welcome for a fun day of exciting roping! Ike Hamilton Expo Center Arena www.westmonroe.com/departments/ike-hamilton-expo-center June 8 Spring Tea Talks: Summer Citrus Time: 2:00 pm-3:00 pm The Spice and Tea Exchange invites you to their Spring Tea Talk Series on Sunday afternoons. There will be Hot Brew, Cold Brew, Flash Chill and other fun ways to Brew or Cook with tea. Summer Citrus features Earl Grey, Blood Orange Smoothie and Earl Grey Creme. Spice and Tea Exchange June 9-14 Rodeo Bible Camp Time: 9:00 am-6:00 pm Calling all kids! The Cowboy Church Group and Ike Hamilton Expo Center invite you to Rodeo Bible Camp. Learn about calf roping, barrel
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racing and bull and horse riding/bucking! With a morning and evening church service and rodeo fun in between, you'll be an experienced cowboy or cowgirl by the end of the week! The last day features a rodeo for family and friends to come see what the children have learned. Ike Hamilton Expo Center Arena www.westmonroe.com/departments/ike-hamilton-expo-center June 13 Moonlight in the Garden Time: 7:00 pm-10:00 pm Treat yourself, your family and friends to a Coke Float courtesy of the Biedenharn Coke Museum and The Creamery. Bluebell Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream adds a great taste to a glass of Coca-Cola served up by some of Monroe's best soda jerks. Enjoy this nostalgic treat as you stroll through ELsong Garden by the light of the full moon. Biedenharn Museum and Gardens www.bmuseum.org June 13-15 Monroe Symphony League Book Fair Time: Friday & Saturday-9:00 am5:00 pm; Sunday-1:00 pm-5:00 pm The Monroe Symphony League Book Fair will be held the first and second weekends in June. Come purchase moderately priced books from a vast array of subjects. Proceeds from the sale benefit the Monroe Symphony Orchestra Monroe Symphony League Book Room June 14 Better Than Ezra: A Bayou Benefit Time: 7:00 pm Better Than Ezra: A Bayou Bene-
fit is a private "special concert event" helping to offset medical bills associated with Multiple Sclerosis for our favorite Bayou Belle, Beth Payne Cummings. General admission wrist bands are on sale now at Portico, Coffee Bean, Trios and Ryan Chevrolet. Monroe Civic Center www.ci.monroe.la.us/monroecivic-center.php June 14 Revolution Park Presents: Racing and Frank Foster Concert Time: Gates open: 12:00 pm; Race begins: 2:30 pm; Concert following the race Day racing action includes: Legends, Bandoleros, Thunderstock and Factory Stock. And don't forget the Frank Foster Concert following the race. A day of sunshine and fun out at Revolution Park. Revolution Park Race Track www.revolutionparkentertainment.com June 19 Bottles and Brushes Painting Class with Rene Hatten Time: 6:00-8:00 pm The Masur Museum of Art is proud to announce the return of Bottles and Brushes Painting Class with teacher René Hatten! Students are welcome to bring a bottle of wine or other preferred beverage. You must be 18 or older to attend the class, and 21 or older to drink alcoholic beverages. Bottles and Brushes will be held on a regular monthly basis: the third Thursday of every month from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Masur Museum of Art Carriage House. A new painting will be offered every month. No prior painting knowledge is needed. Masur Museum of Art www.masurmuseum.org/index.php June 22 Spring Tea Talks: Decadent Desserts Time: 2:00 pm-3:00 pm The Spice and Tea Exchange invites you to their Spring Tea Talk Series on Sunday afternoons. There will be Hot Brew, Cold Brew, Flash Chill and other fun ways to Brew or Cook with tea. Decadent Desserts features Black Chocolate, Hazelnut Cookie and Pear Caramel.
Spice and Tea Exchange (318) 388-3920 June 26-28 Miss Louisiana Pageant Time: Thursday-Friday-8:00 pm; Saturday-7:30 pm Come support your favorite contestants at the 51th Miss Louisiana Pageant. The contestants will dazzle you while they compete in; interview, talent, swimsuit, and evening gown. A special variety show on Friday night will light up the audience and is the perfect lead into the crowning on Saturday. W.L. "Jack" Howard Theatre at the Monroe Civic Center (318) 329-2338 June 28 The Downtown Cinema presents: Madagascar Time: Begins at dark-7:30 pm Join the fun in Downtown at the showing of "Madagascar," presented by Downtown Cinema. Downtown Cinema is a free outdoor movie event that showcases family friendly movies once a month during the spring and summer. Admission to the movie is free and Downtown Cinema also provides free popcorn and water. Guests only need to bring their own seating! Downtown Monroe www.facebook.com/thedowntowncinema June 28 Revolution Park presents: Firecracker 50 for Late Models Time: Gates open-5:00 pm; Race begins-7:15 pm Racing action includes: Bandos, Thunderstock, Factory Stocks, Legends, Compacts and Pro Late Models. Join the thrill of all things racing at Revolution Park. Revolution Park Race Track www.revolutionparkentertainment.com Thank you to our calendar sponsor:
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Voices: One Night Only
A sell-out crowd that spanned the ages packed the Biedenharn Recital Hall at ULM to hear four amazing voices and two virtuoso pianists create aural magic as they performed everyone’s ultimate showtunes to benefit the Strauss Theatre Center. The Strauss had a streak of unfortunate events culminating in a devastatingly damaged roof and the resultant rain damage from a storm in December, but you knew that. But the show must go on, so the Theatre Center’s resourceful board of directors led by can-do prez Bobbette Prince came up with the idea to hold a benefit concert. The allstar vocal line-up included: Corey Trahan, a former Biedenharn Endowed Chair of Music at ULM who is now on faculty at Mahidol University in Bangkok; Travis Sherwood, a resounding Baritone who is the Chair of the Classical Voice Department at the College of Music at Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand; Claire Vangelisti, ULM’s international superstar and Voice Area Coordinator and Associate Professor; Lisa Lee Phifer, a gorgeous vocalist who is no stranger to northeast Louisiana audiences; and Margaret Ann Zentner, Monroe’s wunderkind who at the tender age of 16 made her Carnegie Hall solo debut in February 2013. Tinkling the twin Fazioli ivories and accompanying the Voices were masterful pianists, Rick Seiler and Julian Jones. The Voices performed a setlist from Broadway’s best like Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon, The Music Man, Wicked and so much more. “You’ll Never Walk Alone” was performed by Vangelisti and was dedicated to a Bobbette Prince from her prince, George. Steve Mintz had his special request “Til There Was You” from The Music Man performed by Zentner. Jimmy Beach and Martha Ryan were honored by Kevin Caston and Anthony Perkins with an unforgettable duet “For Good” from Wicked sung by Margaret Ann Zentner and Corey Trahan. After the performance patrons were invited back to view the newly-completed renovations at the Strauss Theatre Center and for champagne toasts. Sage catered the after-party and the Strauss lobby was in top form with decorations coordinated by designer Gregory Hudgins.
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On the BayouScene
1 Stuart Scalia, Mary Simpson, Delia Simpson and Georgie Sartor 2 Todd Bonin, Elisabeth Grant-Gibson and Tommy Usrey 3 Phyllis Gordon and Sylvia Masur Thompson 4 Frank Bennett, Evelyn Johnson and Karen Bennett 5 Cathi French Roberts and Blair Shemwell 6 Bobbette Prince and Scott Zentner 7 Gegory Hudgins and Evie Stewart 8 Julian Jones and Corey Trahan 9 Kathy Chandler, Michael Sandifer and Anne Patten 10 Claire Vangelisti and Rick Seiler 11 Pat Hoover, Anthony Perkins, Denise Duplechin and Kevin Caston 12 Lisa Lee Phifer and David Evans 13 Marion and Tommy Zentner, Virginia and Joey Haddad 14 Travis Sherwood and Margaret Ann Zentner
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