BayouLife January 2017 by BayouLife Magazine

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JANUARY 2017 26/ WINTER SKIN WOES Tips from Local Skin Expert Dr. Saidi Sowma-Fakhre 40 / POSED FOR SUCCESS A Simple Yoga Workout to Start Your New Year Off Right 46 / BAYOU ICON Success Comes Naturally for Angie O’Pry Blades 64 / THE BENEFITS OF RESVERATOL Potential Health Benefits of Red Wine and Grapes 66 / SETTING GOALS Encouraging Your Children to Create Goals for Themselves

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70/ LUXE LOCKS Our Hair Pros Give Tips on Achieving Four Great Looks 84/ THE SOUL MAN Blues Singer Robert Finley Follows His Dreams 94 / MATERIAL GIRLS Nine Looks to Inspire Your for The Year’s Biggest Party Night 102 / GRAPHICALLY SPEAKING Bayou Artist Jake Dugard is an Artist, Designer, Professor and Much More 116 / BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU EAT Navigating the Minefield of Food Allergies, Gluten Sensitivity and Celiac Disease

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122 / RIVER GRILLE New Owners Revamp This Neighborhood Gem

BayouLife

T’S HARD TO BELIEVE

that 2017 is right around the corner. 2016 has definitely been full of challenges, but it has also been a blessing. This year, I’m resolving to find the silver lining in even the most difficult situations. When our office flooded in March, all I could think about was being displaced and the inconvenience it would cause. But, thankfully, things weren’t as challenging as I initially thought they would be. We had a few months in cubicles – but we had someone to make coffee every morning, clean the bathroom and a safe office space with really friendly co-occupants. Ultimately, I feel really thankful and am making that my #1 resolution – be thankful every day. Health & Beauty is the theme of this month’s issue. The new year marks a time for fresh beginnings and healthy living, and we’ve gathered information to help you on your quest to a healthier lifestyle. A few years ago, I was diagnosed with Celiac disease. Thankfully, I met with Dr. Gary Jones and nutrionist Amanda Wood early in my diagnosis, and they have helped me along the way. But, I’ve also realized how our community, especially our food and service industries, lack the knowledge to properly handle those with food allergies and intolerances. On page 116, Kay Rector talks to area experts who help navigate you through the minefield of food allergies, gluten sensitivity and Celiac disease. The battle with dry skin during winter months is a common concern. Meredith McKinnie talks to skin expert, Dr. Saidi Sowma-Fakhre at DermaMediQ for tips on battling winter skin woes. See this article on page 26. Nils Borquist takes a look at the value of cold-water

1201 Royal Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 Phone 318.855.3185 Fax 318.855.4645

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treatment. Although the notion of sitting in ice water may sound a little crazy, there are benefits to subjecting yourself to a little ice, ice, baby! Read all about it on page 34. Years ago, I remember walking into Fiesta Nutrition Center – I also remember their logo having a cat wearing a sombrero. Fifteen years later, things have definitely changed. With Angie O’Pry Blades at the helm, Fiesta Nutrition Center has been redesigned and reinvigorated. Health food is no longer assigned to a “bunch of hippies.” It’s a universal language, and we are thankful to have someone like Angie who speaks it. Read BayouIcon on page 46. Toni Navarro and I were recently at Enoch’s to celebrate our friend Alicia Thomas’ 40th birthday, when we ran into Robert Finley. Toni had just told me about hearing him on NPR, and she thought we should interview him. As luck would have it, we reached out to his manager and got in contact with him. Mr. Finley is not only an amazing vocalist, he is a genuinely nice guy from Bernice, LA. See his interview with Nils Borquist on page 84. We want to wish you a Happy New Year. As always, thank you for reading this issue of BayouLife Magazine and keep supporting your local businesses.

PUBLISHER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com EDITOR Maré Brennan mare@bayoulifemag.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Moffett melanie@bayoulifemag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Taylor Collins taylor@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Toni Navarro toni@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Ashley Hubenthal ashley@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Amanda Singley amanda@bayoulifemag.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tara Ambrose Jen B. Avis Nills Borquist Maré Brennan Kenny Covington Lou Davenport Dr. David Finley Cindy Gist Foust Andi Holyfield April Honaker

Paul Lipe Erin Love Meredith McKinnie Dr. Timothy Mickel Kay Rector Delia Simpson P. Allen Smith Beatrice A. Tatem Analeise Thomas Judy Wagoner

Cassie CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Scarlett Garcia Aaron Greenhood Martin G Meyers ON THE COVER Posed for Success Model: Taylor Collins Clothing by If the Crown Fits Photography by Martin G Meyers BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Circulation: 13,000 copies monthly. Postal subscriptions ($20) can be ordered online at www.bayoulifemag. com. BayouLife Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts or other materials. Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited.

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Washington Wine & Spirits Whiskey: The Water of Life

S WE MOVE FORWARD INTO WINTER AND THE DAYS get colder, whiskey starts to call our name. Cold weather and whiskey go hand in hand, and right now, whiskey is a booming industry filled with some great works of art. Below is your personal guide into the world of whiskey and an invitation to join us Thursday, February 2nd for Washington Wine & Spirits’ Winter and Whiskey event, where you’ll be able to learn about and sample a great collection of whiskies. Whiskey is a very broad term that begs to be defined more specifically. Whiskey is made from fermented grain mash and typically aged in wooden casks. A mash is simply a combination of grains such as barley, corn, rye and wheat in varying proportions. Whiskey can refer to American whiskey, bourbon, rye, Scotch, Irish, Canandian or Japanese. Scotch, Canandian and Japanese whiskies are traditionally spelt without the “e” (whisky). Each type of whiskey is distinguished by their production methods, mash bills, and aging process that contribute to their individualistic taste. So what are the main differences between each type of whiskey? Although bourbon was originally made in Kentucky, it can currently be made anywhere in the United States. In order to be classified as bourbon, the whiskey must follow these guidelines: made in the United States, mash bill must be at least 51% corn, bottled at a minimum of 80 proof, and must be aged in new charred oak barrels. There is no age minimum requirement; however, in order to be called “straight bourbon,” it must be aged for a minimum of two years. Rye is a type of American whiskey that was originally produced in Maryland and Pennsylvania. The guidelines for rye made in the United States are: mash bill must contain 51% rye, bottled at a minimum of 80 proof, and must be aged in new charred oak. Just like bourbon, there is no minimum age requirement, but in order to label it “straight rye,” it must be aged for at least two years. Bourbon and rye are distinct in taste profile mainly because of their mash bill. A bourbon is traditionally sweeter than rye with notes of caramel, vanilla and oak ,while rye generally shows characteristics of red fruit, cinnamon and orange peel. 8 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Canadian whisky was traditionally known as rye whiskey to distinguish it from bourbon whiskey. It was originally made with a high rye mash bill, but there are currently no restrictions on the mash bill. Guidelines for Canadian whisky include: made in Canada, aged in wooden barrels, bottled at a minimum of 80 proof, and aged for at least three years. Irish whiskey is very similar in guidelines. In order to be classified as Irish whiskey, these guidelines must be met: made in Ireland and aged in wooden casks for at least three years. Not far from Ireland, Scotch whisky is made in Scotland. Guidelines for Scotch whisky include: made in Scotland, mash bill must contain water and malted barley (may also include other grains), must be distilled and aged for at least three years and one day, and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof. Typically, scotch is aged in ex-bourbon casks but may also use ex-sherry, wine or rum casks. Although Irish and Scotch whiskies are close in region, their grain drying processes are very dissimilar, which contribute to their differences in taste profile. Scotch whisky is typically dried over peat while Irish whiskey is typically dried over kennel. The latest development in the whiskey world is Japanese whisky, and it has definitely started to make a name for itself with its many awards and accolades. Masataka Taketsuru studied the art of distillation in Scotland and brought back his knowledge to Japan in the early 1920s. To be called Japanese whisky, the whisky must be made in Japan from malted barley and other grains, water and yeast. Each distillery creates in-house variations of methods and mash bills to blend together for a very complex profile. Japanese whisky is typically characterized by flavors of honeysuckle, toffee, acetone and orange. Neither a scotch nor a bourbon, Japanese whisky has its own character and is a delicious new alternative that holds its own next to the old schoolers.

Haik Humble Eye Center

First in Louisiana to Offer KAMRA™ Inlay– An Advanced Solution to Reading Glasses

N OUR 40S AND 50S, WE BEGIN to experience the naturally frustrating effects of blurry near vision and turn to readers for help. This near vision loss is called presbyopia. Presbyopia reduces the ability of the eye to focus on near objects, causing blurry reading vision. An advanced surgical procedure to treat this condition is now available from Haik Humble Eye Center. The KAMRA™ inlay has helped thousands restore their near vision and reduce the constant frustrations of reading glasses. Drs. Raymond Haik, Thomas Parker and Baron Williamson were the first ophthalmologists to do the KAMRA inlay procedure in the state of Louisiana. Those patients tell us KAMRA is the best thing they’ve ever done for themselves. You can have that same experience as those first Louisiana KAMRA patients! Why does near vision fade? The lens in your eye is stretchy and flexible. With time the lens stiffens. As a result it can no longer bend into the right shape to bring close objects into focus. To compensate, you end up moving objects further away at just the right distance to focus. This is why you start holding reading materials at arm’s length. The clinical term is presbyopia, and it happens to everyone eventually. How does the KAMRA inlay restore near vision? The KAMRA inlay sits in the first few layers of the eye known as the cornea. Smaller and thinner than a contact lens, the inlay is a mini-ring with an opening in the center. By using this pinhole effect, the inlay focuses light coming into your eye. This restores near vision

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while maintaining distance vision without blurry zones. Who can benefit from the KAMRA inlay? The KAMRA inlay is ideal for individuals ,who want to reduce their dependency on reading glasses and meet all medical criteria. It is important to understand there may be times when additional magnification is needed for small print, to see in dim light or to perform a near task for an extended period of time. What benefits does the KAMRA inlay provide? KAMRA inlay treatment: • Restores everyday vision so you can see text messages, a computer screen and the time on your wrist watch, without the constant frustrations of reading glasses or contact lenses. • Provides a natural range of vision – from near to far—without blurry zones. • Offers long-term performance to help you enjoy clear vision over time. How long will the KAMRA inlay last? Do I need to replace the inlay if my presbyopia worsens? The KAMRA inlay is a long-lasting solution to presbyopia. Assuming your eyes don’t change, the effect of the KAMRA inlay will go unchanged. However, with the development of cataracts or changes in your underlying prescription you may need an enhancement (i.e. LASIK or cataract surgery). This will be advised by your eye doctor. If it doesn’t affect my far vision, then why is it put in only one eye? The KAMRA inlay is place in only one

eye allowing you to see up close, while maintaining your distance vision in both eyes. Your non-KAMRA eye is left untouched. Working together, the eyes allow you to see near to far. The inlay does not affect your side or peripheral vision. Will I feel the inlay in my eye? Unlike a contact lens, the inlay is placed within the first few layers of the clear part of the eye, also known as the cornea, so it is not felt. It is secured into place and does not move after it is implanted. How new is the KAMRA inlay? The KAMRA inlay has been around for more than 10 years. It is the number one prescribed corneal inlay in the world. It provides an excellent long-lasting, natural range of vision from near to far for those who have become dependent on glasses to read. Can the KAMRA inlay be removed? Yes, the inlay can be surgically removed if necessary. Will I notice an immediate improvement? As with any eye surgery, healing is a process. Recovery will depend on personal healing patterns. While some patients see an improvement within the first weeks to a month, others may require additional time. To determine if you’re eligible for KAMRA, your eyes will need to be assessed by an eye doctor. Please call Haik Humble Eye Center at (318) 325-2610 today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

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Glenwood Bariatric Services Make 2017 the Year to Lose the Weight

ECEMBER IS SUCH AN EXCITING and delicious month…full of holiday and family gatherings, favorite holiday dishes and tasty treats…who can resist? But once the holidays are past, we start thinking about our resolutions for the New Year. If you or a loved one struggles with obesity and health problems associated with it, January is a perfect time to make the decision to do something about it. Choosing to have bariatric weight loss surgery could change your life forever. Research has shown that diet and weightloss medications are of little use to people with extreme obesity. Their best chance for long-term weight reduction and improved health is bariatric surgery to promote weight loss. Even more than a decade after surgery, 90% of those who have undergone gastric bypass, the most common bariatric procedure, manage to keep off an average of 50% of the excess weight.

HOW OBESITY CAN AFFECT YOUR HEALTH People who are obese, compared to those with a normal or healthy weight, are at increased risk for the following: • Type 2 diabetes • High cholesterol • Osteoarthritis • Hypertension (high blood pressure) • Sleep apnea and breathing problems • Coronary heart disease • Some cancers (endometrial, breast, colon, kidney, gallbladder, and liver) • Reproductive and child-bearing difficulties • Depression • Urinary incontinence • Premature death 12 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Bariatric weight loss surgery, performed on those who are severely overweight or for whom diet and exercise have failed, is a life-changing decision. It has the potential to resolve or improve many serious obesityrelated health issues and improve the quality of life. Some studies also suggest that people live longer after weight loss surgery, compared to equally obese people who do not have surgery. Our Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Program helps patients lose weight and keep it off. We specialize in the surgical treatment of clinically obese patients by offering Lap Bands and Sleeve Gastrectomy. The Lap Band System helps you gradually lose weight and keep it off by reducing the amount of food that your stomach can hold at one time. Gastric Sleeve Surgery permanently removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving a slim tube or “sleeve” that reduces the amount of food that it can hold. The procedure also removes the part of the stomach that produces ghrelin, an appetite stimulating peptide hormone. Our Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Program provides you with a multidisciplinary team to help maximize your results. We go far beyond the surgery by providing a life-changing program that includes nutritional, physical activity and emotional guidance, as well as support groups. Primary team members are Henry Zizzi, MD, Bariatric Surgeon; and Charlene Smith, RN, Bariatric Coordinator; and Kim Albritton, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritional Counselor.

ARE YOU A CANDIDATE? Below are questions you can ask yourself

to determine if you are potentially a candidate for weight loss surgery. • Are you more than 100 lbs. over your ideal weight? • Is your BMI over 40? • Do you have a BMI of over 35 along with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes related to being severely overweight? • Does your weight stop you from doing activities you enjoy? • Are you unable to achieve a healthy body weight for a sustained period of time, even with medically supervised dieting?

ATTEND A FREE BARIATRIC WEIGHT LOSS SEMINAR ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 17TH. Register now to attend our next seminar on Tuesday, January 17th at 6:00 p.m. in the Community Room at Glenwood Medical Mall, 102 Thomas Road in West Monroe. We’ll discuss the challenges of obesity and the role of bariatric surgery. We’ll also outline the different types of bariatric weight loss surgery procedures and programs that we offer. Bariatric Surgeon, Henry Zizzi, MD along with Bariatric Coordinator, Charlene Smith, RN will present and answer any questions you may have. Spouses, family members and partners are encouraged to attend. Space is limited, so if you would like to attend, call 318-322-1339 or visit GRMC.com and click on Classes & Events. Glenwood Bariatric Services is located at the Glenwood Surgery Center, 1275 Glenwood Drive in West Monroe. The Glenwood Surgery Center is a campus of Glenwood Regional Medical Center.

Fitzco Marine Group Serving the Waterfront of the U.S. Since 1979

IKE FITZPATRICK, OWNER/FOUNDER OF FITZCO has spent all his life on and around the water. He started in business in 1979 at the age of 19. Having been instilled with values and principles from the beginning, he truly operates his business by the Golden Rule. Fitzpatrick has a passion for educating folks on marine construction, to help them get the best “bang for their buck.” Fitzco has recently partnered with Joe Terracina of River Marine Works on the Ouachita and Red Rivers, as well as local lakes, in Northern Louisiana to provide a level of quality unlike any other in the area. They offer unsurpassed customer service and quality for your marine construction needs. Mike’s message is that floating docks shouldn’t be unkempt looking structures with vegetation growing out of the “exposed foam” flotation. They shouldn’t have poorly painted steel framework and columns. The problem is with the original design of the docks, most of which are not repairable, as the concrete decking has been poured on top of the foam flotation with a steel frame around it. “At Fitzco, we do many things differently… for a reason,” says Fitzpatrick. “We believe that your dock should secure your boat, not the other way around. Over the years, we have developed equipment and processes specific to improving our finished product while increasing efficiency. This has led to unmatched ability and quality in the maritime construction industry in the areas of pile driving (we can even drill and install piles in bed rock), bulk heading, floating and fixed structures and underwater recovery of sunken vessels.” “With us, it’s about design it and building it correctly…. once,” says Mike. “If it’s already been built and is not performing, we will redesign it and rebuild it correctly…. once. If you choose us for your next project on the water, whether it’s replacing pilings,

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installing a bulk head, building a new floating or fixed pier or an elaborate custom boat house, prepare to be impressed.” Their system features: • Encapsulated float modules that are replaceable should one become compromised (which will not allow vegetation to exist) • Galvanized steel frames with the floats attached thereto so as to prevent any direct exposure of steel to the water • Precast, steel reinforced concrete deck panels which can be removed to access utilities or to replace in the event one becomes compromised. • All galvanized steel components alleviates the need to paint anything resulting in a truly “maintenance free” design. “I’ve been designing and building floating dock structures, from small private docks to massive commercial marinas, as well as consulting for other marine contractors, for over 30 years,” states Fitzpatrick. “It’s simple,” he says, “Fitzco and River Marine Works want you to enjoy more time on the water! Contact Fitzco Marine today by calling Mike Fitzpatrick (318584-7003) or Joe Terracina (318-665-0190 or 318-614-2406). 323 Moon Lake Road, Monroe, LA 71203 P.O. Box 466, Shell Knob, MO 65747 • 417-858-BOAT (2628) 212 Flat River Road, Bossier City, LA 71112 • 318-584-7003 Fitzco Marine Construction • AirHoist Boatlift Systems Century Maritime • MariTow U.S. “Serving the waterfront of the U.S. since 1979”

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New Beer’s Resolutions Beverage Choices for the Health Conscious Consumer BY DELIA SIMPSON, CRAFT, SPECIALTY, AND IMPORT MANAGER, CHOICE BRANDS, INC.

T’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN when we are away from the rich, decadent food and drink of the holiday season and begin the year with a clean slate (or clean plate, as it were). There are many low calorie, low carb and gluten free choices for your glass as well. Here are just a few options to keep your glass half full in the New Year. TRULY SPIKED AND SPARKLING Truly Spiked and Sparkling hit shelves for the first time in 2016. At 100 calories per 12oz serving with just 1 gram of sugar and 2 grams of carbohydrates, it “truly” is a revelation. The bubbly beverage is also gluten free, contains no artificial sweeteners and comes in three flavors: Colima Lime, Grapefruit & Pomelo, and Pomegranate. Each flavor with just a hint of fruit is lively and effervescent, just like sparkling water but with 5% alcohol. Try it on its own for a refreshing kick or use it in one of the many mixology recipes found at trulyspikedsparkling.com. SMIRNOFF SPIKED SPARKLING SELTZER Another variation on alcoholic sparkling water is Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer. This malt beverage is 90 calories per serving with no sugar and only 1 gram of carbohydrates. It is crafted to remove gluten and contains no artificial sweeteners. Available in Orange Mango and Watermelon, look for it on shelves in early 2017. Orange Mango has ripe, aromatic

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mango notes with a pleasant twist of orange in the background. Watermelon has a ripe watermelon profile with sweet juicy red notes in the background. With all natural flavors and 4.5% alcohol, it’s the perfect guilt free treat. HEINEKEN LIGHT While Heineken is one of the most popular and respected beer brands in the world, many people don’t realize that they also make a light version of the classic lager. Heineken Light clocks in at just 99 calories, 7 grams of carbohydrates and 3.3% alcohol. Its flavor has a smooth, subtle bitterness and well balanced clean finish. With a zesty floral aroma and hints of citrus, it will definitely take you further than your average light beer. YUENGLING LIGHT Yuengling Light is what America’s oldest brewery refers to as a full-flavored light beer. It is an exceptional brew that appeals to consumers who don’t want to sacrifice character for a low calorie light beer. Masterfully developed to maintain the full flavor profile akin to their flagship lager, Yuengling Light only has 99 calories per 12oz serving. Skillfully pairing a caramel malt flavor and mild hop character creates a beautifully rich colored beer with deep amber highlights that finishes smooth and clean. MILLER LITE When mentioning light beers, it would

be impossible not to mention the original light beer, Miller Lite. In 1975, this pilsner was created with the same strain of yeast brought over from Germany, blazing the trail for every other beer with “light” on the label. At just 96 calories, 3.2 grams of carbohydrates, 4.2% alcohol and with more taste, fewer calories and half the carbs of Bud Light, Miller Lite has won more gold medals than any other light beer. From the purity of the water to the choice Saaz and Galena Hops, Miller’s brewmasters go to great lengths to ensure the quality and consistency of their beer. In fact, they taste it every day, because a beer this light can’t hide any imperfections. Be sure to like Choice Brands on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to keep up with local happenings and new product releases. In addition, you’ll find links to beer related articles, fun recipes and much more! As a bonus, we will be posting a trivia question each month for a chance to win cool, beer related prizes. This month’s question is: Which local Northeast Louisiana star athlete was featured in the original award winning Miller Lite “Taste Great - Less Filling” TV commercials from the 1980’s? Hint: LSU Quarterback Go to our Facebook page, post your answer in the comments section (the trivia post will be pinned to the top) and you’ll be entered to win (must be at least 21 years of age)! Find us at facebook.com/choicebrands, twitter. com/choicebrandsinc, and instagram.com/ choicebrands. Good luck!

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NEW USE

for the Old Succulent article by P. Allen Smith

hen winter arrives, and your green thumb is itching to dig in the dirt and tend to something green, you can always rely on succulents to satisfy your urge. These plants are so versatile! They’re gorgeous in terrariums or simple pots, but I’ve also seen them used in topiaries to create handbags and shoes. Imagine that! Succulents come in a calliope of colors and are so low-maintenance, a child could grow them. Granted, when it comes to making the most of these plants, not everyone has the wherewithal to make succulent shoes, but here are two project ideas to keep your green thumb busy until spring.

Simple Succulent Dish Garden Materials: Various succulents Shallow dish Pea gravel Cactus soil

Gather or purchase small pots of various succulents. If you’re on a tight budget and already have succulents, you can make cuttings that can be used in the project. When choosing plants, remember textures are fun to contrast, but don’t forget about color. A variety of greens, grays and reds will give your arrangement a jewel box quality. Select 18 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

a specimen that will be your focal point and build off of it. Any container that is at least 4 inches deep will work for succulents. For a traditional dish garden use a shallow bowl or even a large terra cotta saucer. Cover the bottom of the container with gravel. This is especially important if the pot does not have a drainage hole. Moisten the cactus potting soil and add it to the container leaving about an inch of space between the soil and the lip. Do not water. The moistened soil is adequate. Wait a week of two and then water lightly.

Centerpiece

An easy winter project, to help you transition from the holiday season into January and February might be the simple succulent centerpiece. They actually like the chill and these plants tend to show off more in the winter months. You’d be surprised! Start with saturated floral foam, that’s really all the water they need. For this project, I used echeveria, because it’s easy to find, incredibly hardy and has the shape of a flower. They will also bloom in vibrant red and orange. Simply snip your succulents right off the plant. They’ll be fine because they keep all of their water and nutrients in the “petals.” Skewer the back with a wooden bamboo skewer, like the kind you’d find in the grocery store. Place some dianthus or other moss in the flower foam to use as a base. You can also

use ornamental kale or other greenery. The succulents can be placed inside with the stick. The moisture in the foam will encourage the succulents to “root in.” And there you are! The succulents will be happy like that for months!

Succulent Topiary

Materials: Various succulents Galvanized metal form Sphagnum moss, fresh and moist Copper wire For this project, a metal form is preferred over wire, because succulents can get heavy! First, stuff the form with the lightly moistened sphagnum moss. Use copper wire to wrap the form and keep the moss inside. You could use fishing line, but copper wire will last longer. Take tweezers or forceps, and make a hole in the moss and stick the succulent into the hole. The tighter the space, the more likely it will develop roots and take hold. Repeat until the entire form is covered and planted with sprigs. Don’t re-water until it totally dries out. If you water too early, you risk washing the tiny roots of the succulents away. Give it time to get established before you display it in the yard. This could take about four weeks. Remember to stay hands-off during this period. The less you do, the happier they are.

Caring For Succulents

To care for succulents indoors, you’ll need a sunny window, but don’t worry if that’s not possible throughout the entire day, succulents will survive in lower light for a few months. Move indoors when temperatures drop below 45 degrees. Don’t expect much growth during winter, but keep the dish in a location with cooler temperatures – between 50 and 60 degrees F -- and cut back on watering to about once a month. During warmer seasons, water when the soil is dry and feed plants once a month with liquid fertilizer diluted to 1/8th strength.

Selecting Succulents

The varieties of succulents can be overwhelming, so it’s easy to get bogged down in your choices. Here are a few I recommend as houseplants: • Crassula ‘Hobit’ – oval leaves; chartreuse near the stem and orangered at the tip • Echeveria dondo – pointed rosettes of pale green leaves with a slight pink tint. • Echeveria runyonii – rosettes of flat, gray-green leaves. • Gasteria batesiana – star-shaped plant made up of triangular, green and white leaves. • Haworthia fasciata – three dimensional, pointed cones of zebra striped leaves. • Haworthia cymbiformis – stubby, triangles of translucent green leaves. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2017 19

Audibel the Hearing Center Make Better Hearing Your Resolution This New Year

ITH EVERY NEW YEAR’S celebration, we make a firm pact with ourselves for the coming year to be better in our diet and health. With our many resolutions, how often have you considered recapturing the sounds that you may be missing due to hearing loss? Whether it is the birds chirping outside of your window or family conversation in a restaurant, there may be no resolution more impactful than getting your hearing tested in 2017! Over 40 percent of Americans make New Year resolutions each year, and the number is steadily growing. A resolution can be anything from wanting to travel more, losing weight, spending more time with family or even learning to paint. If you didn’t make a resolution this year, maybe there is something that you want to accomplish in the New Year. Your resolution could be a dream you had when you were a little boy or girl or something that you recently learned about when scrolling through your Facebook feed. It doesn’t matter the inspiration, it’s now time for perspiration. The experts at Forbes recommend the following tips to see your resolution or goal until the end. KEEP IT SIMPLE Although some of us would love to visit the moon or visit every country next year, those goals sound glamorous but are going to be very difficult to achieve. MAKE IT TANGIBLE The purpose is to break down your larger goal into more manageable and attainable 20 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

goals. You also want to be very specific with your goals. MAKE IT OBVIOUS You will need a way to track and monitor your goals. You can write them on a to-do list, put them on your calendar or put a post-it note on your fridge. KEEP MOTIVATED One of the best ways is to tell your family and friends about your goal. You can post it on your Facebook wall, tell your best friend or tell your neighbor. It doesn’t matter who you tell, just tell somebody. They can help keep you motivated. At Audibel The Hearing Center, we recommend adding one more to the list. GET YOUR HEARING CHECKED Hearing is directly involved in our ability to learn and interact with others. If you want to learn to paint, it is going to be easier if you can hear the instructions from the teacher. If you want spend more time with your family, you are going to enjoy it more, if you can hear your grandkids giggle and laugh. One of the most overlooked elements of New Year’s resolutions is hearing. It doesn’t matter your resolution or goal; we offer hearing evaluations to ensure that your hearing won’t get in the way. Whether for yourself or a loved one, we can identify any sounds that are being missed due to hearing loss and provide reasonable solutions for treatment. Don’t be

like the millions of other Americans who put off getting the simple treatment they deserve for their hearing loss. There is a big world of sounds out there, and we want to make sure you are a part of it everyday! Contact us today to schedule your appointment. 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 28 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.

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Do You See What I See Eye Sight as a Metaphor for Vision for Life BY BEATRICE TATEM, PH.D., LPC-S, NCC, ACS

OMMY, DADDY, WHAT DOES that sign say? When riding public transportation as a little girl I would see advertisements and wondered what the ads depicted. To my parents, I was their little girl, who wanted to learn to read. Did they see what I saw? Unbeknownst to them, words were a blur to me. I began wearing glasses at age three. The blurred world I knew became clear. I could now distinguish letters, and I was learning to read. My eye sight had improved. Eye sight is conceivably the most primary of the five human senses. Having sight is also referred to as having vision. Metaphorically, vision can indicate an imagined plan for the future. There are many metaphors regarding the human experience of seeing the world around us. There are times when the world around us, our lives, need clarity, when we need to examine who we are, what we are doing and where we are going. Over the years, I have endured numerous eye treatments to correct my vision. I was initially diagnosed with myopia, a vision disorder that occurs when a person cannot clearly see objects at a great distance. As a pre-teen, a hole in my retina was discovered. As a teen, I began wearing bifocals, a medical decision I thought was way too cruel. I would learn quickly how much better I saw everything. After completing college, I was fitted with hard contact lens. More than a cosmetic change, it enhanced my vision. It was also the first time in my life I would remember not wearing anything on my face; I no longer hid behind 22 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

my glasses. For years, wearing glasses was an outward extension of my being. In the morning, the first thing I did was to put my glasses on, and the last thing I did before going to bed was to take my glasses off. While training to become a psychologist, I was diagnosed with Keratoconus or hardening of the corneas, a progressive eye disease which can lead to blindness a disease few outside the Ophthalmology world knew about. What was to come of me, my profession, my life? The state of my eyesight has always impacted my life. Literally and figuratively speaking, my condition has allowed me to join with those who struggle with poor eyesight, those without eye sight and those without vision. Recently, I met with a young client also experiencing an eye disease. He was brought to therapy to address what his parents diagnosed as depression associated with his poor eyesight. He discussed his difficulties, his determination to make the necessary adjustments for a bright future. He emphasized he was not depressed as reported by his parents but concerned. His parents were reminded everyone looks through different lenses, and sometimes our inability to see the future is due to a lack of vision and not poor eye sight. Recently, when told “you have cataracts” (common with individuals diagnosed with Keratoconis) and “you need to get reading glasses“…I hesitated… was this an indication that my eyes were worsening? Naturally, my eyes have worsened, it is part of the aging process.

Shamelessly sporting the infamous dollar store reading glasses, I can once again see clearly. Like eyesight as we age, our vision for life changes. As you transition into the new year, fix your eyes on the future you desire…have focus. Be a visionary and plan for the future; don’t allow yourself and those around you to lose sight of their expectations and dreams. Keep in mind we can be blindsided by challenges. Be a realist and shun blind optimism. Take time to reflect on what your past has given you. Establish a vision for yourself and nurture it everyday, every moment, in every way, at every chance you get. Avoid tunnel vision; be open to setting new goals, creating new dreams and implementing new ideas. Seek what is good and magnify the positive. Strive to be transparent and authentic in your relationships. There are times when life may seem murky and you have to make decisions; be clear on what you want, keep things in perspective and watch your dreams unfold. Keep your eye on the big picture. Have you had your eyes examined lately? Has your vision been corrected? What do you see? 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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DR. WALTER SARTOR

BEFORE

Take Charge

AFTER

LCWLS Can Help

RYSTAL FERLICCA, A REGISTERED NURSE IN THE P&S Surgical Hospital Cardiac Lab, has lost a total of 80 pounds. She chose the gastric sleeve procedure at Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery—the bariatric program at P&S—because she wanted to feel better, avoid serious diseases and spend quality time with her toddler. “I love my job, and I enjoy going to work and taking care of my patients. There is a lot of required maneuvering, which has been so much easier for me without the fear of pain,” she said. “Prior to the surgery, I experienced pain every day. I have severe arthritis in both knees, and it hurt to work a regular shift. I had no energy to play with my two-year-old son after work. Sometimes the pain was so bad, I would be close to tears, even though I was taking arthritis medication every day. I was amazed at how much my weight loss improved my pain. The more weight I continued to lose, the better my pain got. Eventually, it didn’t hurt to work and perform my job.” Krystal tried traditional weight loss methods for approximately four years prior to undergoing the gastric sleeve surgery. “I tried exercise, but severe arthritis prevented me from obtaining my goals. I tried diets, but I could not stick with any of them. It was depressing, overwhelming at times and frustrating. I hated shopping or even looking in the mirror. I was disgusted with myself.” She observed the success of a friend’s experience with the gastric sleeve surgery, and that success inspired her. “Before my surgery, it was so hard to maneuver, and it physically hurt to try. One night after a long painful day at work, I had to tell my son, ‘Mama can’t get down on the floor to play cars this evening.’ I got out of the bathtub that night, looked in the mirror, and hated what I saw staring back at me. That is when I finally decided I had to regain control of my life. I was sick of having pain dictate what I could and couldn’t do. I wanted to enjoy my reflection again.” Krystal, who has since gained a love for gardening, also enjoyed a 10-year-anniversary trip in June. “I was not humiliated about wearing a swimsuit this year.” She has experienced other victories as well. “I would absolutely recommend the gastric sleeve surgery, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. It has changed my life. I feel better. I feel good about the way I look now, so my self-esteem has improved, which makes me feel better about life,” she said. “I will always 24 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

remember the day my ‘skinny’ jeans actually fit. I was so nervous to try them on, because I had fears that it was too soon to wear them or that I would be disappointed. I slid right into them, zipped them up, and looked in the mirror. All I could do was giggle.” Krystal now enjoys her freedom from food addiction. “I still enjoy my coffee every day. I still eat sweets, but I have the willpower to stop, when I know I’ve had enough. Before the surgery, I would have eaten the desserts out of habit, or because I was hungry. I know my body’s cues now to stop eating and tell my brain I have had enough to eat and that I am full. I love that this surgery has given me the mental awareness to pass by the cake in the breakroom and go straight to the refrigerator to get my healthy yogurt for breakfast instead!” She was pleased to experience minimal pain following the surgery, and now she looks forward to the rest of her life. “I feel grateful every day that I decided to have the surgery. My life has forever been changed. I enjoy life again. I know that my life is good, and I look forward to the future. I feel like I made a choice not only to lose weight, but to protect my health from diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure, all of which run in my family. I want to be around and be a part of my son’s life for as long as possible.” Bariatric Surgeon Dr. Walter Sartor and dietician Marci Parker played vital roles in her success, she said. “Dr. Walter Sartor did a perfect job and took excellent care of me. He listened to my concerns and was very detailed in explaining the procedure and what post-op would be like. I couldn’t have been more pleased with the care that my P&S nurses and surgical team provided not only to me, but to my husband as well. Marci is always available for any questions I still may have. Both she and Dr. Sartor ensure I am receiving the correct vitamins and the appropriate amounts of protein. It is comforting to know I have their support and encouragement.” Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery, an accredited bariatric program, is a partnership between Dr. Walter Sartor, P&S Surgical Hospital, and St. Francis Medical Center. Like us at facebook.com/LCWLS, and call us today at 1-866-821-LIVE. Check out Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery on YouTube.

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GET THE LOWDOWN ON WINTER SKIN WOES TIPS FROM LOCAL SKIN EXPERT DR. SAIDI SOWMA-FAKHRE ARTICLE BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE

B AY O U IN THE UPCOMING WINTER months, dry skin is a common concern. As humidity levels decrease, the air outside becomes cold and dry. The water in your skin begins to evaporate much faster. The result is dry skin. As you age, you have more chances of moisture leaking out because of less skin cell turnover. And while skin care year-round is essential, the effects of a lacking skin-care regimen is more apparent this time of year. The skin consists of many layers, and one is the lipid bilayer. To prevent your skin from getting cracked and dry, the first step is to protect your skin from further break down of the lipid bilayer. Shield your skin from the cold wind. Indoor heating can damage the skin as well, so set your thermostat to a lower setting that is still comfortable in your home. While nothing may sound better than a long soak in a hot bath or a scalding shower after a cold day, the results can be damaging to the skin. Dr. Sowma-Fakhre insists “hot water robs the skin of its protective oils, resulting in dryness.” Limiting those baths and showers to ten minutes and reducing the temperature from hot to warm will help reduce the impact on the skin. Protecting your skin from the sun is obvious and encouraged in the summer months. People frequently lather up their children and themselves with heavy sunblock, as if the sun is more damaging in the summer. It still shines in the winter, and protecting skin from sun exposure is vital even on cloudy, winter days. Some moisturizers do contain sunscreen, but if using one that does not, apply the sunscreen last before your makeup. And avoid skin care products containing alcohol. Limit frequent hand washing, and use hand cream after each wash to retain moisture. Avoid harsh bar soaps, especially deodorant soaps that dry out the skin. When washing your face, use gentle cleansers. Avoid soapy or foamy cleansers that strip the skin of its natural oils, breaking down the lipid bilayer in the upper layer of the skin, causing a loss of moisture. Hydrating and moisturizing the skin is essential, claims Dr. Sowma-Fahkre. Many confuse moisturizing with hydrating. Skin should be hydrated, before it is moisturized. Hydration attracts moisture and increases the skin water content, making it plump and supple. An example of hydration would be applying a toner or some form of hyaluronic acid, which has an increased affinity for water. To prevent losing hydration, humidifying the house in winter months is helpful, along with the sunscreen, gentle cleansing and warm baths and showers with bath oils. Hydration

H E A LT H is important, because it makes the skin soft, but you have to still protect it from evaporation by moisturizing. “Moisture creates a barrier between your skin and the world to protect from trans epidermal water loss by trapping hydration in your skin,” says Dr. Sowma-Fahkre. Moisturize twice a day after prepping with toner or hyaluronic acid for best results. Many make the mistake of moisturizing dehydrated skin. While the moisturizer will smooth out the skin, it will look dull and feel uncomfortably tight without the proper hydration. If you have oily skin, you should still hydrate, but use a light moisturizer. Don’t overdo exfoliating in the winter. Use exfoliates with alpha hydroxy acid, no harsh peels, to avoid buildup of dry layers. Establish the winter routine of using a gentle cleanser, a gentle exfoliate, hydrating and moisturizing. And in the morning, add sunscreen before applying makeup. Moisturizing your body is imperative soon after bathing. Avoid scrubbing the body with excessive soap, only essential areas. Look for moisturizers with both hydration and moisture. Pat the body dry, and then lock in moisture. For best results, look for a moisturizer with ceramide, which acts to hold skin together, forming a protective layer that plumps the skin and retains moisture. Drinking water is known to have massive effects on overall health and appearance. Simply put, the skin is an organ made up of cells, which are made up of water. And any depletion of that water will cause the organ to not perform at its best. A lack of water results in a lack of hydration making the skin dry, flaky and more apt for wrinkles. That water loss must be replaced. And while drinking water will help, the water will reach other organs before it reaches the skin, so a direct application of water to the skin is still essential. Two liters of water a day is recommended for the average-sized person, though more may be necessary for one who exercises frequently. Eating foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids aid in skin rejuvenation. Some omega-rich foods include: salmon, flaxseed, nuts, olive oil, avocados, tuna, white fish and egg yolks. The omega fatty acids act as natural moisturizers that regenerate the skin from the inside out. Whether it’s adhering to a skin care regimen, considering your habits and their effects or protecting your skin from sun or wind damage, prevention and awareness are key. Know your body, and protect and preserve its biggest organ. It will make you look and feel better. Don’t forget to spend a little time on the layer underneath.

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Arrow Dental Center Smile Big in 2017!

HE BEGINNING OFA NEWYEAR IS here, and it is a time when many people choose to look back over the previous year and think of where the past months have taken them. It is a time to refresh and renew, and it is also a time for those wonderful, yet dreaded, New Year’s resolutions. Inevitably, our thoughts often turn to how we can improve our outward appearance. Many people think of gym memberships as they resolve to get in better shape. Others choose dieting or even giving up bad habits as New Year’s resolutions. Often overlooked, yet no less important than dieting or exercise, oral health is essential to a person’s overall health. Many people are unaware that tooth decay (cavities) is a disease so prevalent it is second only to the common cold. It affects people of all ages, and often leads to tooth loss. Deep cavities can cause abscesses, or infections in the mouth. Bacteria from those infections are carried throughout our body by the bloodstream and can affect other parts of our body even if we are unaware. What many people don’t realize, however, is that tooth decay is preventable! Proper oral hygiene, brushing our teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day, can prevent most decay. Regular dental cleanings, usually twice a year are also a significant factor in preventing cavities. Not only can a resolution for better oral care reduce the risk of cavities, it can also reduce the risk of gum disease. Almost 28 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

half of Americans have gum disease, or periodontitis, which also leads to tooth loss. Gum disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and form spaces that become infected, known as periodontal pockets. Periodontal disease can be related to other systemic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Regular cleanings can reduce the amount of plaque and tartar build up on the teeth and reduce the risk of gingivitis and periodontitis. A dentist or hygienist can help by recommending antibacterial mouth rinses, performing deep cleanings to treat periodontal pocketing, and providing information and periodontal aids to clean the pocket areas related to gum disease. Treating cavities and gum disease are essential to improving oral health, but there are also other resolutions that can be made to help our teeth and gums and improve our smile. Quitting smoking or using tobacco that irritates the gums and restricts blood flow for healing is a great way to take care of not only our mouths, but our whole body. Consistent, daily use of fluoride recommended by a dentist or dental hygienist to keep teeth strong when faced with dry mouth due to medications is another method of fighting tooth decay. Even something as simple as changing out a toothbrush after a cold can help reduce a relapse of those viral infections. But perhaps you don’t know if you

have cavities or gum disease. Maybe you only know that you don’t smile, or manage to hide your teeth when you smile. One of the first things people notice about others is their smile. If you avoid smiling because you don’t like the look of your teeth, there are many treatment options available. From something as simple as affordable teeth whitening to having cavities treated with tooth colored restorations, having a smile to be proud of is definitely a realistic New Year’s resolution! The color and shape of teeth, in many cases, can easily be changed with porcelain crowns or veneers. If periodontal disease or decay has caused tooth loss, they can be replaced with dentures, partial dentures or fixed bridges. Stains and buildup can be removed by having a thorough teeth cleaning, The confidence radiating from a beautiful smile is something that everyone deserves and can achieve. Making 2017 the time to improve yourself can begin with improving your smile! Having a comprehensive oral exam by a dentist is the first step in getting the smile you want. Overall health can be improved by treating dental diseases, and outward appearance can be transformed by giving yourself the smile you want!

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Rayville Recovery A New Beginning

UBSTANCE USE AND DEPENDENCE is a huge problem for families and communities throughout the nation and appears to be expanding at an alarming rate. At Rayville Recovery, we are committed to providing quality inpatient treatment for individuals with serious drug and alcohol problems. While there are outpatient programs available, sometimes the intensity of inpatient care is necessary to enable persons with addictions to modify their behaviors and work toward long-term sobriety when they complete treatment. WHY RAYVILLE RECOVERY? The decision to enter treatment is a difficult one to make. One factor in making that decision is your readiness for treatment; it is hoped that you are coming into treatment to work on your particular problem and not just trying to meet the demands of relatives, the court or others. The other important factor is to choose a facility in which you can receive competent care. We believe that the information below will show our levels of competence and caring. Rayville Recovery has been in operation for over eight years, providing inpatient care for persons with addiction. We are licensed by the Department of Health and Hospitals and are required to meet the standards established by that body. Additionally, we are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), which provides further standards to ensure that individuals will receive quality care. Rayville Recovery has an experienced and dedicated staff. Our treatment team is composed of physicians, nurses and counselors that provide the care and treatment

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for persons with addictions. Our Medical Director has over 30 years of medical practice. Our Director of Nursing has over five years experience in working in a substance abuse setting, and the Program Director has over 30 years in the behavioral health field. Almost all the counselors have a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree, and many are independently licensed.

Co-occurring disorders - Sometimes individuals will have a substance use disorder and will have been diagnosed and treated for a serious mental disorder. These individuals will participate in the Residential Rehabilitation program, plus receive some additional assessment and individual sessions from licensed clinicians.

PROGRAMS AT RAYVILLE RECOVERY Detoxification - the use of some substances require that individuals receive extra monitoring to ensure that no serious physical health consequencesdevelop. When individuals have been dependent on opiates (Lortab, roxycontin, oxycontin), benzodiazepines (Xanax, valium, klonopin), or alcohol, they may be placed in the detoxification program. Rayville Recovery has a medically supported detoxification program. Therefore, no replacement drugs (suboxone, methadone) are used. The typical course for detoxification is five days. Residential Rehabilitation - This is typically a four-week program. Persons in the rehabilitation program are assigned a counselor and develop with the counselor an individualized treatment plan to address the individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s addiction problem, discharge plans, and other important life areas. The great majority of the treatment and therapy is conducted in a group setting. This is important, because a great deal of what one learns in the treatment setting is derived from interaction among peers. Rayville Recovery uses the 12-Step model for recovery. While a person will not be able to complete more than the first two steps during the course of treatment, this will provide the basis for further participation in 12-Step programs when discharged to a community setting.

OTHER SERVICES Discharge Planning - Rayville Recovery has a staff member whose main task is to ensure that individuals that complete treatment are discharged into a setting that will be conducive to their continued recovery. This may include discharging to a half-way house, a three-quarter house or outpatient treatment. Intake Services - our intake staff works hard to ensure that every person that needs and wants treatment will receive it. Once a person has made the difficult decision to receive treatment, Intake staff will work to eliminate barriers to admission. In the event that we are not able to admit a person into our program, we will provide referrals to other programs or resources that will be able to provide help. ADVANTAGES OF OUR PROGRAM Our program is based on principals that have been shown to be successful for decades. Because our Residential Rehabilitation program takes about four weeks to complete, persons that are employed can transition back to their jobs better and lose less pay and benefits, compared to six week or 90 day programs. For residents of North Louisiana, the participants in our program are closer to family and other supportive systems.

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Marsala Beverage Company Welcomes Ballast Point Brewery to the Family

T BEGINS WITH THE SEARCH FOR FLAVOR. THE PERFECT balance of taste and aroma. An obsession with ingredients. An exploration of techniques. And while we savor the result, we’re just as fascinated by the process to get there. What started as a small group of home brewers, who simply wanted to make a better beer, evolved into the adventurers known today as Ballast Point. Where Science Meets Art - We live to add our own touch and ask if there’s a better way. As we tinkered, tested and tasted, we discovered that making beer was more art than science. And while we respect and honor tradition, we relish the opportunity to take it further. That freedom has allowed us to reinterpret brewing. And along the way help to reinvigorate the industry. From bringing a hoppy twist to a porter, or developing a proprietary yeast for our amber ale, to creating a breakthrough gold medal-winning IPA. A Home Brewer’s Humble Dream - After developing a taste for beer in college, founder Jack White decided to try making more interesting beer than he could find in the store or at a keg party. Jack, along with his college roommate Pete A’Hearn, began home brewing in their apartment at UCLA and soon realized it wasn’t easy to get access to the various supplies and ingredients he wanted—nor did he have anyone with whom to trade ideas about brewing. In 1992, Jack opened Home Brew Mart, which he filled with the supplies, ingredients and conversation every brewer needed to make better beer at home. His plan was to one day take this hobby to the pro level and start a brewery. Around the same time, Pete went off to UC Davis to get his master brewer’s certificate – they soon found a collaborator in Yuseff Cherney, a fellow home brewer with a similar passion and a set of home brewing awards to boot. Yuseff became Home Brew Mart’s first employee and was part of the team to open a “back room” brewery behind the shop. In 1996, Ballast Point Brewing was born. For The Love of Beer...And Spirits - From day one, Ballast Point’s philosophy has always been doing what we love, and making what we love to drink. So, naturally, we named the beers after something many of us love almost as much as brewing—fishing. Today, many of the beers are named for fish or fishing terms, and the labels have fish on them as a reminder to always do what you love. Soon after the brewery opened, our founding brewmaster Pete decided to take his love for brewing into the classroom as a science

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teacher—inspiring the next generation of homebrewers, perhaps. He is still an active ambassador for our brand, with a wealth of brewing knowledge to boot. By 2004, Ballast Point had outgrown its back room location and moved into a larger production brewery in Scripps Ranch. In this location, Ballast Point continues to brew around the clock to meet the growing demand for its beer. After a decade of growth on the beer side, Jack and Yuseff decided to take on a new challenge—distilling—to see if they could add their own spin on another centuries-old craft. The Ballast Point Spirits family now includes 14 spirits, all made and bottled on site in Scripps Ranch. Sculpin India Pale Ale - A trophy beer that’s a testament to our homebrew roots. Our Sculpin IPA is a great example of what got us into brewing in the first place. After years of experimenting, we knew hopping an ale at five separate stages would produce something special. The result ended up being this gold-medal winning IPA, whose inspired use of hops creates hints of apricot, peach, mango and lemon flavors, but still packs a bit of a sting, just like a Sculpin fish. Food Pairings Coconut Basmati Rice Jamaican Jerk Chicken Tropical Bread Pudding Grapefruit Sculpin India Pale Ale with Grapefruit - Our awardwinning IPA, with a citrus twist. Our Grapefruit Sculpin is the latest take on our signature IPA. Some may say there are few ways to improve Sculpin’s unique flavor, but the tart freshness of grapefruit perfectly complements our IPA’s citrusy hop character. Grapefruit’s a winter fruit, but this easydrinking ale tastes like summer. Food Pairings Basil and Pine Nut Crusted Salmon Honey Souffle Mozzarella and Feta Cheese

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The Value of

Cold-Water Treatment article by Nils Borquist

n the pursuit of achieving the best personal health, most people focus on diet, exercise and meditation, which are certainly all important components of a well-rounded life. However, another necessary aspect for healthy minds and bodies is often overlooked: recovery. Recovery is perhaps the most important part of health, as the body requires time and resources to rebuild after stressful workouts, stretching sessions and the strenuous juggling of time. Besides the necessities of eating properly and scheduling days off from running or lifting weights, coldwater treatments can be utilized to minimalize soreness and maximize overall vitality. Although the notions of sitting in ice water or subjecting oneself to a bitterly cold shower on a near-freezing morning sound crazy to many, considering the benefits of such activities may help to override any trepidation. Cold-water treatments provide a myriad of positives for a recovering body. After performing activities such as lifting weights or sprinting, the body becomes inflamed in order to repair damaged tissue. While this in essentially a positive outcome, inflammation results in painful soreness and can even, over many years, play a role in developing arthritis and even cancer. Fortunately, the body has the ability to reduce such inflammation by producing norepinephrine. Cold-water treatments accelerate and promote norepinephrine production, especially when whole body treatments are undertaken rather than isolation treatments, such as placing an

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ice pack over a sore muscle group. A second value of consistent cold-water treatment is the production of white blood cells, which assist in fighting disease and sickness. According to Dr. Rhonda Patrick, a premier biomedical scientist, consistent exposure to cold water (three or more times per week in water around 41 degrees Fahrenheit) causes the body to make more white blood cells. These cells help the body to perform at top efficiency, effectively fighting harmful elements that usually have a better chance at negatively affecting a person while weakened, such as after tough workouts. A third positive effect of cold-water treatment is an increased metabolism. One reason many people exercise is to reduce body fat. The bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s metabolic rate can be increased by consistent exposure to cold water, a process called cold thermogenesis. There are two types of this thermogenesis. Basically, the first involves shivering, as it occurs in muscle tissue. Heat is a byproduct of increased muscle tissue metabolism; the tissue contraction results in the body shivering. The second occurs within adipose tissue, the fat cells, and does not result in shivering, though, again according to Dr. Patrick, this is where a great deal of true fat burning occurs. Increasing metabolism basically results in decreasing negative body fat. One important consideration espoused by Patrick is when to use cold-water treatment. She cites studies that show that cold-water treatments immediately after workouts can

inhibit the necessary inflammation required to heal muscle tissue. The optimal time, then, appears to be around an hour after a workout, or even later. This allows the body to deal with damaged tissue directly after physical stress while also providing the person with a way to reduce negative effects of unchecked excessive inflammation, which, again, can result in great harm to the body over the duration of several years. Dr. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advice is to actually alternate heat and cold treatments for a three or four round cycle of a few minutes each to shock the body after a period of post-workout rest. If a person wishes to try this treatment out, a common question concerns whether he/she must have access to certain special facilities. The simple answer is no. If wanting to take an ice bath, one simply needs to fill the tub halfway with cold water before dumping in 10 to 20 pounds of ice. After letting that further cool the water, the person can climb in for 5 to 10 minutes as any longer time, while not harmful, does not necessarily provide more benefits. If that sounds horrendous, one can take a cold shower. Turning the water to the absolute coldest temperature, especially during the winter months, should result in a temperature around or even under 50 degrees, a temperature cited by Dr. Patrick as cold enough to cause the positive effects mentioned. This is much simpler than the ice bath, and it can be done first thing in the morning to start the day in an invigorating fashion.

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National Catholic Schools Week Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School | St. Frederick Catholic High SchooL Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School

T. FREDERICK HIGH SCHOOL, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School and Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School will celebrate National Catholic Schools Week this year beginning on Sunday, January 29th through Saturday, February 4th. Locally, as well as nationally, Catholic school students will have the opportunity to participate in community service projects, spirit days, games, Masses and other activities to commemorate this annual celebration of Catholic schools. Locally, students from all three schools will participate in a Religion Scholars Bowl in Shreveport on Thursday, February 2nd along with an All Catholic Schools Mass at St. Frederick’s Marsh Memorial Gym on Monday, January 30th at 9:30 a.m. National Catholic Schools Week is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. The theme for the 2017 National Catholic Schools Week is “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service,” which highlights the fact that faith development, academic excellence and dedication to community service are all integral components of a Catholic school education. Catholic teaching is rooted in the belief that faith and charity go hand in hand. “And now abideth faith, hope, and charity, these three. But the greatest of these is charity” (1 Cor 13:13). These Catholic School Week events focus on the value Catholic education provides to young people as well as teaching them the importance of strong moral development, self-discipline and respect for self and others. “Our Catholic schools appreciate the support we receive from the community 36 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

throughout the year and encourage our students to give back through service projects all year,” said Jesus the Good Shepherd School Principal, Lisa Patrick. “It’s part of our effort to provide a well-rounded, Christ-centered education.” High academic standards grounded in strong moral values and high graduation rates are reasons why Catholic schools and their graduates make a significant contribution to our society locally and nationally. Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School and Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School, serving grades Pre K-6th, are primary feeder schools for St. Fredrick High School, which accumulated approximately $1.98 million in scholarships for the 2016 graduating class. St. Frederick’s is a wonderful example of Catholic school education boasting academic excellence. St. Frederick’s 2015/16 ACT composite score class average was 25.5, which is well above the national average of 21.0. The top 10% of the 2015/16 graduating glass scored an average of 32.3, with the top 40% of the class scoring at 30 or higher. The graduating class also finished the year with averages of 31 college credit hours per student along with 20 hours of community service per student. There are a multitude of reasons to choose to send your children to a Catholic school; however, the National Catholic Educational Association has narrowed it down to the following twelve reasons to choose Catholic schools: • We offer an education that combines the Catholic Faith and teachings with academic excellence.

• W e partner with parents in the faith formation of their children. • We set high standards for student achievement and help them succeed. • We provide a balanced academic curriculum that integrates faith, culture and life. • We use technology effectively to enhance education. • We instill in students the value of service to others. • We teach children respect of self and others. • We emphasize moral development and selfdiscipline. • We prepare students to be productive citizens and future leaders. • We have a 99% high school graduation rate on the national level and a 100% graduation rate locally (SFHS). • We cultivate a faculty and staff of people who are dedicated, caring and effective. • We provide a safe and welcoming environment for all. National Catholic Schools Week is a joint project of the National Catholic Educational Association and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Jesus the Good Shepherd School and Our Lady of Fatima School serve students in Pre K 3-6th grade while St. Frederick High School serves students in grades 7-12. Prospective students and their families are encouraged to visit each individual school to witness first-hand how these schools benefit the Northeast Louisiana area. For more information, or to make an appointment, please contact a Northeast Louisiana Catholic school today.

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If the Crown Fits

Now Exclusively Carrying Active Wear and Fitness Apparel

ES! IT’S TRUE.. 2017 IF THE Crown Fits will be maternity no more. We have loved every second of the maternity world, but we are excited to move on to our true passion.. ACTIVE WEAR and FITNESS APPAREL. We want to thank all of our customers who have shopped maternity, delivery and nursing with us the past three years. Also, a huge thank you to those of you who have supported our fitness apparel journey for this last year. We can not wait to bring you even more lines to fit all of your fitness and active wear needs. We are up to roughly eight lines that have some really great fitness pieces. One of our favorites lines is Muscle Club apparel, which is actually a locally owned business based out of Ruston, LA. Make sure to check them out, because they are blowing up in the fitness industry. We will be focusing on particular pieces that you can wear to the gym, but also take that same pant or top and throw it on with your denim and a cute wedge and have coffee with the girls. Active to daily wear. We will have active wear, true fitness apparel, Mom Life apparel (including all of the mom accessories that you guys love), Kee Kee Tees, and this month we broke into THREE new lines.. and we aren’t done there.. we are also breaking into some fitness accessories. We are so excited to be bringing in some great new accessories that are super 38 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

hot on the market right now, as well. Wireless headphones (yay for all of our gym lovers and runners!), wrist wraps for all of your heavy lifters and, my personal favorite, premium waist trainers. You see these all over social media and most of them are not functional unless you’re at home, or they are crazy expensive. OURS ARE DIFFERENT. Totally functional and at a much better price. I look for these to be a big hit for us with Spring/Summer right around the corner. So get yours first! Be checking out our Facebook and Instagram pages for when all of these new accessories are in stock. FOR THE GUYS! Once the rest of the maternity is cleared out, we have several new lines that we will be bringing in for you. We still have a small selection of great pieces for this winter season. Including joggers, shorts and an assortment of t-shirts. YOUTH FITNESS. We will continue to bring some great youth and young adult fitness pieces this spring. On a fun note. We will be doing private after hour’s parties/gatherings with food, drinks and special offers for you and your friends. We are really excited about this. Who doesn’t like to get together with your friends to visit and shop VIP style! So if you are a gym owner or a coach/trainer at a fitness facility, and you want to do a little happy for your clients, BOOK US! For those athletes who compete in

competitive dance, cheer or body building; come in and let us get you the perfect pieces for your shows. Not that maternity wasn’t fun, but getting our name out there and showing off what we are carrying in the fitness industry has been so much fun! We are even getting the opportunity to be one of the boutiques to walk the runway at Fashion Fusion in support of the Children’s Coalition this coming February. So make sure to get your tickets and come out to see our new styles! We are just so thankful to be getting this opportunity and many more as we continue to expand. We do still have some great maternity and nursing pieces available. It is all on sale until it is gone. See ya later, Pregos, and hello to the after baby grind. You got this! ALL remaining maternity tops, dresses, leggings, dress pants and accessories are 75% off until they are gone! All remaining denim is 50% off! We also have a few things left on the maternity $10.00 rack. You can find us on Facebook under If The Crown Fits Boutique, LLC and Instagram under ifthecrownfitsllc. Or just stop by at 222 Bell Lane in West Monroe. Again, we just want to thank all of our customers for a wonderful ride in the maternity world. We look forward to getting to dress you after in your new fitness apparel!

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POSED FOR SUCCESS Last year is in the books, and it is time to start writing your story for 2017. No matter what your resolutions are this time around, this simple yoga routine can help you meditate on your positive intentions while also serving as a low-impact, full body workout. photography by Martin G Meyers model Taylor Collins, 200HR RYT clothing by If The Crown Fits

HOLD EACH POSE FOR 5 BREATHS. THEN REPEAT FLOW 5 TIMES.

PL ANK Starting with hands and knees on the mat, keep wrists directly under shoulders. Step feet back, straighten legs. Firm throughout legs, core and arms.

UPWARD FACING DOG U R DH VA MU K H A SVANAS ANA

From plank, send shoulders forward, lower body to the ground. Lift upper body off the mat with arms. Then lift belly and legs off of floor. Roll shoulders back and press into hands and tops of feet.

DOWNWARD FACING DOG ADHO MU K H A SVANAS ANA

Roll toes under, press hands into ground and lift hips up to sky. Press arms straight, stretch sides long and straighten legs.

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HOLD EACH POSE FOR 5 BREATHS. THEN REPEAT FLOW ON OTHER SIDE.

WARRIOR II V I R AB H ADR AS ANA I I

Step feet apart, front toes pointing to the front of the mat and back foot parallel to back edge of the mat. Sink hips low and align front knee directly over front ankle while keeping back leg straight. Open hips ans stretch spine tall. Spread arms out to a T.

REVERSE WARRIOR VIPA RITA VI R AB H ADR AS ANA

Drop back hand down to the back thigh. Lift the front arm straight up, reaching the fingertips toward the sky. Keep the front knee bent and the hips sinking low while lengthening through the sides. Tilt the head up slightly and gaze to the lifted handâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fingertips.

SIDE ANGLE PARSVAKONAS ANA

Lift body back up into Warrior II. Reach front fingertips towards front edge of mat, then bring elbow to the front knee. Lift top arm to sky. Stretch spine long.

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SIDE PL ANK VAS I S T H AS ANA

Begin in Plank Pose. Shift your weight on the right arm and rotate body upwards. Press bottom hand firmly into ground, keeping shoulder stacked over arm. Stack feet on top of each other or align edges of feet against mat. Raise left arm to sky. Tilt neck towards raised arm and gaze at the fingertips.

C RESENT LUNGE ANJAN E YAS ANA

Step right foot forward, keeping front knee aligned over ankle. Firm through back leg and keep back heel lifted. Raise arms to sky. HOLD EACH POSE FOR 10-15 BREATHS. THEN REPEAT FLOW ON OTHER SIDE

ONE LEGGED KING PIGEON E KA PADA RAJAKAP OTASA NA

Lower front knee to mat placing directly behind wrist. Lower back leg. Sink hips and keep squared to front of mat. 42 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

LIZARD U T T H AN PR IS TH AS ANA

Lower arms to mat. Lengthen spine. Keep bent knee hugging towards arm.

HOLD EACH POSE FOR 10-15 BREATHS. THEN REPEAT FLOW TWICE.

GODDESS U T K ATA KONAS ANA

Step feet out wide, point toes out slightly towards edges of mat. Bend your knees directly over your toes and lower your hips into a squat. Keep thighs parallel to floor. Extend your arms out to the sides at shoulder-height with your palms facing down. Hold here or bend at elbows and raise fingertips to sky.

WIDE LEG FORWARD FOLD P RASA RITA PA D OT TANAS ANA

Straighten legs and parallel feet to each other. With a flat back, fold forward at the hips and bring the hands to the floor under the shoulders. Bend elbows and drop head to mat.

GARL AND MALAS ANA

Squat with your feet as close together as possible. Press your elbows against your inner knees, bringing your palms to together. Stretch tall through the spine.

C H ALLENGE PO S E C ROW BA KAS ANA

Bring palms to the mat, keeping them about shoulderdistance apart. Spread your fingers and press evenly across both palms. Press your shins against the back of your upper arms. Draw your knees in as close to your underarms as possible. Lift onto the balls of your feet and lean forward. Round back, inhale deeply and draw your abdominal muscles in firmly. Look at the floor between your hands. Begin to lift feet off floor and draw heels up towards bum. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2017 43

St.Frederick High School St. Frederick Builds Character

E OFTEN HEAR A RESOUNDING TERM WHEN it comes to students at St Frederick. There is something about them that stands out among the rest, something that is a source of pride in our school and one of our greatest assets. The term is “Character.” Our students and graduates are people who exemplify good character. At St. Frederick High School, we see character as more of a rule than the exception. Our students are all of high character, so it is hard to tout something that to us, seems like a norm. Our parents realize this quality that our students have is something that we take for granted. It is our best selling point and the reason why our parents send their children to St. Frederick High School and why our students stay. Often teens tend to conform to their environment. They rise to the standard that is set before them, and St Frederick students raise the bar. If character were not enough, the ACT scores from the graduation class of 2016 were some of the highest in the state with 40 percent of the class scoring 30 or higher on the ACT, and 50 percent scoring 25 or higher. The school’s ACT average was 25.5. St. Frederick High School is the only school in Northeast Louisiana offering a STREAM program. We have recently added CAD (Computer Aided Design), featuring 3D printing, to complement our Engineering and Robotic classes. Students have the opportunities to participate in multiple sports and various organizations. St. Frederick builds character of the whole student from academics to athletics and beyond. SFHS is truly a school where students are not only allowed to choose their own paths to success, but where they are encouraged in a family environment to strive to be the very best that they can be. The mission of SFHS is to nurture students to be living examples of the teachings of Jesus Christ in an atmosphere of academic excellence. Come see what our school is all about. Set up a tour or come attend our annual auction, the PTO Mardi Gras Fundraiser on February 4 at the Msgr. Marsh Memorial Gym. This annual event helps to raise funds to meet the educational

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needs of the school. Through this fundraiser, the PTO has been able to update the science labs and computer labs at the school, help update the look of the gym and provide needed supplies to teachers. Sponsorships are still available. Contact Misti Cordell at 318-376-9504 or the school at 318-323-9636. Come out and join the festivities that include a silent auction featuring various packages that will appeal to men, women and children alike and a live auction featuring great vacation packages. There is something for everyone at the Mardi Gras Fundraiser. Open Enrollment Begins February 20 Enrollment for the 2017-2018 school year begins Feb. 1 for students already enrolled at St. Frederick, or are currently 6th graders at Jesus the Good Shepherd or Our Lady of Fatima. Open enrollment begins Feb. 20 to all accepted applicants. Begin your application process now by visiting www.stfrederickhigh.org. Open House is January 31 Open House is scheduled for Tuesday, January 31, from 5:30 – 6:30. Come meet the faculty, administration and students on this special night and experience the great things St. Frederick has to offer. You can also schedule a visit with the school or arrange for your child to shadow a SFHS student and experience SFHS first hand. Come visit us today and see how your student can become a Warrior, a Warrior for Christ. Call Shere May, Director of Admissions, at 318-323-9636. Above photos: Left: Students make blankets to take to the Veteran’s Home as part of the school wide service project. Right: Science club students experiment with dry ice. Photo by Julia Barkley, 8th grade.

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SUCCESS COMES NATURALLY for BayouIcon Angie O’Pry Blades article by kay rector photography by martin g meyers Long before “organic” and “gluten-free” became household words, Angie O’Pry Blades understood the correlation between nutrition and health. For decades, she has touted the benefits of natural foods and wholesome, organic products. At Fiesta Nutrition Center in Monroe, Blades provides customers with long-standing favorites, as well as the latest offerings in whole foods and nutritional supplements for optimal health and wellness. What began as a part-time job eventually grew into a life-long vocation. As a college student, Blades worked after school at Fiesta Nutrition Center, Monroe’s only health food store. Established in 1976, Fiesta was at that time a small retail outlet, tucked away in the courtyard of Twin City Plaza, near the entrance to Twin City Mall on Louisville Avenue. In those early days, Blades recalls, business was slow. “We were on the fringe,” she says, with demand for health food products limited to a loyal, but very narrow, customer base. Blades attended what was then Northeast Louisiana University, majoring in Home Economics. Although her degree emphasis was interior design, she really enjoyed her nutrition classes, especially the “food labs” where students explored food from a scientific perspective. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the health food industry was not yet the lucrative commercial enterprise it is today. Despite the lack of widespread acceptance of a holistic approach to health, Blades followed her passion and learned all she could about nourishing the human body. She loved her job at Fiesta, selling natural food products and nutritional supplements. Following graduation, rather than pursuing a career in interior design, Blades continued working for Fiesta owner, Ed Arnold. Blades and Arnold negotiated an arrangement for her to buy the store upon his retirement. She became the store manager and learned to handle all 46 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

aspects of the business operation, while keeping up with trends and changes in the field of health food and nutrition. Arnold passed away before retirement, but his family honored his agreement with Blades, and she became the owner of Fiesta Nutrition Center. The timing of her acquisition was favorable, with healthy food choices and natural alternatives to processed foodstuff slowly becoming more popular among consumers. Blades was also experienced, having grown up around retail food sales. Blades’ grandparents owned a grocery store in Eunice, Louisiana, where she spent lots of time as a young girl helping her grandmother. “It was an old-fashioned grocery with a meat market and smokehouse on the premises. They owned it together, but it was really my grandmother who ran the business,” Blades says. “She was the shopkeeper. She had a good memory for people, and people trusted her opinion. She was a really hard worker.” Blades loved going to her grandparents’ grocery store. She also recalls that as a child, before moving to Monroe from South Louisiana at age 13, she would play “store” instead of dolls, setting up a pretend shop from which the neighborhood children would “buy” goods. Like her retail grocery experience, Blades’ knowledge of the health food industry and its history has served her well. “The health food movement started on the West Coast, in California, back in the days of Paul Bragg, Jack LaLanne and Gayelord Hauser, all pioneers in the industry,” Blades explains. “The first products we carried were Blackstrap Molasses, Braggs’ Apple Cider Vinegar and Brewer’s Yeast.” She notes that herbal teas have always been popular, with many of the recipes handed down through generations. Blades remembers young mothers calling the store looking for catnip tea, because a grandmother recommended catnip for a baby’s colic. She says that a lot of information was passed from one generation to the next.

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efore the Internet, health and nutrition information was not as readily available to consumers. People would read books, but they also relied heavily on their local health food merchant for information and suggestions. “We never prescribe or make claims,” Blades stresses, “but we do recommend. In this business, you really become familiar with your customers and their needs. Now, with the Internet, it has catapulted into something totally different. Customers are more informed and do research on their own,” Blades says. Blades acknowledges that the attitude of acceptance that health food merchants now enjoy is a vast improvement. “Back when we started, when someone said ‘health food’ most people thought of granola and a bunch of hippies,” Blades laughs. “That really was never the case. Most of our customers have always been educated, good people interested in improving their health.” Blades says that even now, people are often surprised at what they find when they come in the store. “We are on our fourth generation of customers here,” says Blades. “That is one of the most rewarding things. I see young people come in with babies, and I have known all four generations of the family. I have some customers in their 80s and 90s who have been shopping with us for thirty or forty years.” Several years ago, as her business thrived,

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Blades began looking to expand. She had always admired the building at 1211 North 18th Street that formerly housed The Woman’s Shop, a popular high-end clothing store, and thought it would be a great location for her business. Built in 1965, it was one of the first buildings along the North 18th commercial corridor. “As a teenager,” Blades remembers, “I used to drive by and look at the show windows at The Woman’s Shop and think ‘someday I am going to be able to afford a dress in that place.’” She never dreamed that she would one day own the building. Al Peterson, realtor with John Rea Realty and a Fiesta customer, took her to see the North 18th Street location. Blades recalls that when she walked in, she knew instantly that it was perfect for her business. “If I had thought about it too long, I probably never would have done such a big expansion,” she laughs. “My banker, Rick Siudy at Origin Bank, discouraged me. He was afraid it was too big.” She says that Siudy and others were skeptical, asking her what she was going to do with all that space. These days, Siudy just smiles and shakes his head when he comes in her store, happy to see that Blades proved him wrong. With the move, Blades tripled the floor space of Fiesta Nutrition Center. She hired additional staff, eventually expanding from two employees to twelve, added departments and products and put in a lunch café. Fiesta’s inventory has increased substantially in both volume and variety.

Blades attributes much of her business’ growth to the burgeoning popularity of natural and organic products. Record numbers of consumers, realizing the negative effects of chemical pesticides, are opting for organic produce. They are shying away from foods high in sodium or laden with artificial ingredients. “In the past decade, there has been a surge of people demanding clean, healthy food and also truthfulness regarding the food they feed their families. People are looking for foods raised without pesticides or artificial growth enhancers. Even among young people, this is happening,” Blades says. “People are concerned about what is in the foods they are eating, and are willing to pay a little more for a superior product.” Blades finds it exciting to see such an emphasis on healthy food choices and natural products widely available to consumers, even though that means more competition. “We were the first to bring some of these ideas and products to Monroe,” says Blades. Health foods are now being offered everywhere, and customers can often find items like organic produce, gluten-free and non-genetically modified alternatives and even some supplements at Brookshire’s and Walmart. “What makes our business a success is the personal service,” Blades points out. Blades and her staff offer a wealth of knowledge for local shoppers looking to improve the way they fuel their bodies and minds. Blades is very careful in selecting Fiesta’s inventory. If a product appears on the shelves of her store, one can be certain she has researched it before placing it there. In many instances, Blades has actually visited the manufacturing plant where the products are created. Many manufacturers allow retailers to tour their facilities, and Blades began taking these tours years ago as a way of learning more about the products she sells. “We are able to see the whole process and the progression from raw material to bottled product on the shelf,” Blades says. “It is really fascinating. When you see how a company tests the materials it receives at the back door, to be sure that it really is what they say it is, before sending it on for processing, it is definitely a loyalty builder. The bottling facilities in these plants are pristine and you have to suit up before entering to avoid contamination. Samples of the different batches are kept in archives, so if ever there’s a problem they will be able to address it. So much goes into creating a good product.” Blades feels fortunate to have an array of options. “Product lines are much more plentiful than they used to be,” she notes. “The products we carry are backed by scientific research and adequately and truthfully labeled.” Blades also points out that the U.S.

It isn’t necessary to throw out everything you already have. But as you run out of something, replace it with something healthier. Food and Drug Administration has a much greater presence now than it once did and is more likely to prohibit distribution of products that are inferior or do not live up to accepted standards. Blades says that the health food industry is also self-regulated by quality companies that demand superior products and truth in labeling. Blades buys from companies that participate in a True Labeling program. She explains that these organizations buy products anonymously and test them, reporting the results. This process leads to better labeling and better standards in the marketplace. Blades and her staff try to stay up-to-date and welleducated about industry trends and new products. “We read journals and go to classes and seminars,” she says. Blades has served on the board of the Natural Products Association for a number of years and was President of the Southwest Region for two years. She is a current board member of the National Natural Products Association and is involved with its lobbying efforts, traveling to Washington, D.C. to advocate on behalf of the natural products industry. “It is important for our legislators to recognize the consumer’s right to buy good products,” Blades says, “and to insure that labeling is regulated.” Blades’ food philosophy is that, as a general rule, “[i]f God made it, then it is good. Whenever man has a hand in it and alters it, that is where we usually start going off track.” Brilliant people, she says, often manufacture or genetically alter foods and pass them off as healthy alternatives to the real thing. That is why she considers lobbying efforts on behalf of the natural foods industry so important. Blades says she was fortunate to grow up in a family that cooked, served and even grew healthy food. “My parents and grandparents always cooked, and they had gardens. We always had fresh fruits and vegetables from the garden, meats from my grandparents’

meat market and fresh fish that they caught themselves.” One of her goals is to introduce as many children as she can to fresh food. Blades speaks to children’s groups and school classes, and is sometimes shocked at her reception. She laments that she encounters some children who have never seen or tasted spinach or avocado or bellpepper. Even today, with all of the information being disseminated about the benefits of healthy food, many children still

live in what Blades refers to as a “food desert,” without access to natural, whole fresh foods. “The really sad part is when children of means aren’t introduced to anything fresh, either because of their lifestyles or their parents’ choices. That is a real tragedy to me,” says Blades. For individuals and families looking to improve their eating habits, Blades suggests a gradual upgrade. “It isn’t necessary to throw out everything you already have. But as you run out of something, replace it with something healthier, like organic apples instead of the ones you normally buy.” She recommends introducing new foods a little at a time and trying new things. She finds that customers are usually pleasantly surprised by the taste, as well as the health benefits, of

different food options. She points to yogurt as an example of something that, not so long ago, only “health nuts” ate. Today, multiple varieties, flavors and brands of yogurt are purchased by mainstream grocery shoppers every day. Fiesta employees regularly conduct instore taste tests, so that customers can try new products before buying them. Fiesta also offers an organic produce box program through which customers receive assorted, seasonal fruits and vegetables. Blades says this program can be a great way to try out different foods. Her store also sources eggs from a local farmer whose chickens are raised in a natural environment and fed an organic, chemical-free diet. When she is not ordering, stocking and selling food and supplements for her healthconscious patrons, Blades enjoys cooking and even does small catering jobs for friends and customers from time to time. When traveling, Blades loves to try new restaurants and visit other health food stores and farmers’ markets. As a retailer, however, her time is very limited. Fiesta Nutrition Center is open six days a week, Monday through Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Even when the store is closed, there is much to be done to keep her business running smoothly. Lately, Blades has been focusing her efforts on the remodeling and expansion of Fiesta’s café. Look for the reopening of Fiesta’s lunch spot in early 2017, with fresh ideas and new concepts. Although owning a retail business can be challenging, Blades finds it rewarding. She loves her job and looks forward to starting each day. To this she attributes much of her success. “Just showing up each day and allowing something to happen,” Blades says, is crucial to success in any endeavor. “Every day is different. In a day’s time, I may see every walk of life, men and women of every age, race and socio-economic status, all looking to better themselves.”

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The Leader in Orthopaedic Care North Louisiana Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Clinic Sidney L. Bailey, MD Dr. Bailey is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon, who has practiced at the Orthopaedic Clinic for over 35 years. His primary interests include mini-incision total knee and total hip replacement surgery, in addition to computer assisted and MRIassisted total knee replacement surgery. David M.Trettin, MD Dr. Trettin is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with Fellowship training in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy, and subspecialty certification in Sports Medicine. Having practiced at the Orthopaedic Clinic for 22 years, Dr. Trettin’s areas of interest include shoulder and knee arthroscopy and sports medicine. Grant A. Dona, MD Dr. Dona is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with Fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery. He has extensive experience in operative and nonoperative management of foot and ankle conditions and a variety of other general orthopaedic conditions. He has practiced at the Orthopaedic Clinic for 22 years. R. Brian Bulloch, MD Dr. Bulloch is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon and has practiced at the Orthopaedic Clinic for over 20 years. He specializes in total joint replacement, as well as shoulder and knee arthroscopy. Dr. Bulloch’s practice interests also include surgical and non-operative management of upper and lower extremity conditions. 50 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

W. Sol Graves, MD Dr. Graves is Fellowship trained in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine and is Board Certified in Orthopaedic Surgery with subspecialty in Sports Medicine. Dr. Graves’ areas of interest include arthroscopic treatment of shoulder and knee injuries. Timothy D. Spires, Sr., MD Dr. Spires is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon who practices General Orthopaedics that includes musculoskeletal diagnosis, surgical management of conditions of the extremities and non-operative management of spinal conditions. Jose L. Ferrer, MD Dr. Ferrer is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon, with Fellowship training in spine surgery. He performs the most advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive spine surgery, with special interest in spinal revision, adult deformity and reconstruction surgery. Jeffrey R. Counts, DO Dr. Counts is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon and Fellowship trained in Sports Medicine. In addition to treating all types of sports related injuries, he is accredited in minimally invasive spine surgery. Dr. Counts specializes in outpatient micro discectomies, as well as cervical and lumbar fusions. Daven Spires, MD Dr. Spires is a Board Certified General Orthopedist. His interests include fracture

care, total and unicompartmental joint surgery, and sports injuries. He has been privileged to utilize the latest in robotic assist technology and patient specific instrumentation. Martin J. deGravelle, MD Dr. deGravelle is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with Fellowship training in shoulder, elbow and has a subspecialty certification in hand surgery. His interests include arthritic and traumatic problems of the upper extremity, arthroscopy of the shoulder, elbow and hand, and tendon repairs and reconstructions in the elbow, wrist and hand. Kristopher C. Sirmon, MD Dr. Sirmon is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon who trained at LSU Medical School and Residency (Level 1 Trauma Unit). He frequently performs total and partial joint arthroplasty, anterior approach and total hip arthroplasty, sports and trauma procedures. Dr. Sirmon is also a team physician for Neville High School and ULM. James S. Finley, MD Dr. Finley is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon who has practiced in North Louisiana for over 30 years. He practices general orthopaedics but enjoys treatment of arthritic joints, especially knee and hip replacement.

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New Attitude Hair Design Boutique LaCour The Difference between Ordinary and Extraordinary

VER THE COURSE OF 28 PLUS YEARS, SHELIA Powell Carroll has stayed on top of beauty industry trends and innovations for hair and skin aesthetics. Her constant pursuit of education is on-going and has taken her to the beauty industry’s top destinations, such as Miami, New York, Dallas, Birmingham and New Orleans. On the journey to hone her craft, Shelia has become certified in the Brazilian Blow-Out and So.Cap. Human Hair Extensions. Paul Mitchell products and specialty services, such as Keratriplex and Hydratriplex hair treatments, can also be found at New Attitude Hair Design. Our services do not stop at the top of your head, but go all the way to your toes! What better way to relax after the hectic holidays than with a spa facial, pedicure and/or manicure? Microdermabrasion is an amazing treatment to help revitalize your skin during the harsh winter months. Special event hair and make-up is an experience each woman should enjoy at least once! A personal passion for Shelia is to work with each bride to achieve the look and feel she has always imagined for her wedding day. All services are offered by appointment only and performed by Shelia Carroll, either in salon or at destination. New Attitude Hair Design is a proud distributor of Senegence skin care line and a lover of its premier product, the patented LipSense liquid lip color. LipSense is an amazing departure from conventional lipsticks and lip colors found on the market today. It comes in a wide variety of shades and textures with over 50 shades that can be mixed and matched to create a number of effects. This unique product is waterproof and does not smear off, rub off or kiss off and can last anywhere from 4 to 18 hours. LipSense is a nonwax, liquid lip color that stays on the skin and provides a natural, mechanical shield from the elements. When looking for the REALEST faux lashes on the market, and in our humble opinion, the BEST, look no further! We are the exclusive retailer of The REAL VIXEN lashes for the Louisiana area. Vixen lashes are cruelty-free harvested mink hairs artfully placed on a reusable cotton band, up to 25 times. The lash designs range

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in a variety from the fun and flirty to the daring and dramatic. We individually fit each client, following their natural eye shape, with the lash that is the perfect choice for them. There is no need to be intimidated when it comes to lashes! We teach you to apply your lashes, so you can recreate the look all on your own. We also offer the convenience of year-round tanning with the wonderful UV-free sunless tanning system, Mystic Tan. One session in our completely private booth will leave you with the healthiest of glows for 7-10 days. As her business grew, Shelia knew the time was right to fulfill her dream of creating a business that would cater to the complete woman. Starting in 1999, jewelry was added along with a few clothing lines. In 2001, the business expanded to the dream it is today, helping women build their confidence from the outside in. With a personalized shopping experience and an eye for unique clothing and jewelry, New Attitude Hair Design Boutique LaCour offers something for everyone! The reality of Boutique LaCour blossomed from Shelia’s desire to help her clients “Experience the Difference” between ordinary and extraordinary. Boutique LaCour comes from a family name that was her grandmother’s, meaning “The Court.” Shelia will be the first to tell you her success comes from having the right women in her “Court.” Always modest at any mention of her success, Shelia credits “the three Strong women I have here with me; Faye Purvis, Stella Gibson and Cassi Canada.” We invite you to New Attitude Hair Design Boutique LaCour to “Experience the Difference” for yourself! A PAUL MITCHELL SIGNATURE SALON Facebook: New Attitude Hair Design Boutique La Cour Facebook: Shelia Powell Carroll Also, follow us on Instagram and Pinterest! 710 Florida St. | Delhi, LA 318-878-3397 | 318-237-8504

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Fishing With Kenny

Just Alike, But Not Quite the Same article by Kenny Covington photo by Jessica C. Lyons

ver the years, I have been fortunate to fish some of the best fisheries in the southern part of the United States. I have also fished some of the worse ones as well. Each lake is different. Each one has a different personality, and each one seems to have a mind of its own on how it reacts to weather, boat traffic, etc, as well as the seasonal patterns of the fish. This month I would like to pick a couple of the more popular lakes in our area and try to give you some basic insight on how to fish each one. Granted, it is basic information, but it will at least give you a starting point if you decide to fish these particular bodies of water. I have chosen two lakes that have a lot in common as far as water clarity, layout and some basic fishing techniques. Both lakes are clear, have an abundance of deep water to fish as well as shallow opportunities and are full of bass. Let’s see how they stack up. CANEY LAKE This 5,000 acre lake located in Jackson Parish has long had a history of producing double digit bass. Seven of the top ten largemouth bass caught in our state have come from the waters of Caney Lake. While the lake isn’t producing fish like it did during its heyday back in the mid 90’s, the fishing is still very good and showing signs of returning to its former self. A reason for this return to prominence can largely be credited to the amount of aquatic vegetation that can now be found in the lake. Dollar pads, coontail moss, and milfoil can be found in the shallower areas of the lake. An abundance of vegetation is the 54 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

lifeblood of any lake that has a reputation for being a good fishery and Caney is no exception. Fishing grass can be a whole chapter of Fishing 101, but there are a few lures to make things easier. Rat L Traps and chatterbaits are effective, when fishing grass lines or edges. Texas rigged flukes and senkos are good choices, when fishing the holes found in the grass. One of the characteristics of Caney that can make it difficult to fish is due to its clear water. On bright sunny days most anglers find more success fishing deeper areas or targeting the boat docks around the lake with shakey heads and Texas rigged soft plastics. Shades of watermelon and purple seem to be good all round choices, when choosing a color to begin throwing. On cloudy days, no matter the time of year, fish can be caught shallow. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits are always good choices, and in warmer weather months, topwater lures are effective fish catchers. Keep your color choices simple. Anything shad related or color schemed are usually productive. LAKE CLAIBORNE Known more for its striper fishing over the years Claiborne has become a solid lake, when it comes to largemouth bass fishing. Years ago it wasn’t uncommon to win tournaments on Claiborne with 10-12 lb. five fish limits. My how things have changed. It is rare that it doesn’t take more than 16 lbs. to win, and it seems each time a fish in the seven to eight pound range is weighed in. There are a lot of theories as to why the overall fish population on Claiborne appears to be as good as it has been in several years.

Some people point to the amount of grass in the lake, some people believe it has to do with the stocking of the Florida strain largemouth, and still some believe the drawing down of the lake has contributed to the success of the fishery. Whatever it is, it seems to be working! Claiborne is one of those lakes that fits the style of every type of fisherman. If you want to fish shallow, there is an abundance of boat docks, grass flats and stump fields, as well as other types of cover. For those fishermen who prefer to fish the deeper haunts, there are drop offs, ridges, humps, creek channels and man-made brush piles for even the best electronics guru to seek out and fish. Claiborne is and has always been a chartreuse color lake. Lures with green as the base color or having chartreuse as a part of the color scheme consistently produce. Soft plastics such as watermelon and green pumpkin will catch fish, but when the tails are dipped in Chartreuse dipping dye, they seem to produce better. Firetiger colored crankbaits are effective year round producers as well. The beauty of Claiborne is that you can Carolina rig your favorite offshore area, and then turn right around and flip/pitch shallow boat docks. Both techniques are effective year round and show the lake’s versatility. I sure wish I had more space to tell you more about these two lakes, but it looks like I am out of room. Please be careful in the woods, and if you are on the water, catch one for me! See you next month!

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WHAT’S IN YOUR MAKEUP BAG? We asked several area ladies what beauty products and perfumes they can’t live without and here are some winners you might want to sample yourself!

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow in Stone Avène skin cleanser, MD Mineral lipstick in Amoré Ponds – “My grandmother got me hooked as a teenager!” Arabella’s go-to scents are Jo Malone English Pear and Freesia and J’adore by Christian Dior.

new fralayer and try I do like to -time favorone of my all t u b s, ce n a gr ur Un ‘Eté. an’s Thé Po is rt A ’ L is es it is the dry scent I love er th o n a grances d n A ne, with fra lo a M o J y body oil b r Lily. ber and Ginge m A rk a D f o

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N LORI FRE

MEKA BENNETT RELIFORD

CAROLINE BROWN

HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST Mollycosmetics.com -- a new ‘silisponge’ made of silicone! Awesome! Pat McGrath’s new Metalmorphasis eyeshadows – so hot right now! These shadows look like liquid gold and silver! @patmcgrath.com. Mac Cosmetics’s new Mariah Carey collection -- it hasn’t come out yet, but everyone is obsessing over it!

Clé de Peau concealer/correcteur visage -- This award winning concealer comes in 6 skin flattering shades to help cover spots, freckles and dark circles. Cledepeaubeaute. com. It Cosmetics Hello Lashes Mascara – It’s like lash extensions in a tube! Conditions lashes and gives longer, fuller lashes with one application! Among Caroline’s favorite perfumes are time-tested scents, like Chanel No 19, which was originally formulated as Gabrielle Chanel’s signature fragrance and named for her August 19 birthdate. And Chanel No 22, which was created in 1922 as a light variation of the brilliant No 5 launched a year earlier by Coco Chanel and Ernest Beaux.

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ARABELLA MOORE

MARGARET BROCK Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Night Formula -- “I can’t live without it!” Clinique Foaming Rinse Cleanser -- “Love it!” Says Margaret, “My favorite fragrance -- I’m sensitive to fragrances, because they give me headaches -- so my very favorite that I use sparingly is Chanel No 5. I like Chanel No 5, because I always think of it as being such a classic fragrance and not overpowering. One I could also wear was Elizabeth Arden True Love, but they discontinued it, of course!

MEREDITH SMITH

Burt’s Bees Lip Balm – “Pink Grapefruit is my fave!” Prescriptives Custom Blend Foundation and Loose Powder (but only available online now). Aveda Hand Relief Moisturizing Creme – “a must-have in winter months!” Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick Compact – “for a beautiful, shimmering bronze compliment to a summer tan (or if you just want to look like you spent the week with your toes in the sand.)” Aveda’s Mosscara in Black Forest – “Contains a blend of Icelandic moss and other plant extracts; it’s an all-natural alternative for sensitive eyes.”

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KAREN O’KEEFE

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KRISTIN BROWN

Senegence Lipsense! – “And I really love Senegence tinted moisturizer, foundation and pearlizer. It all stays on so long.” Save My Face! Pillow – “A satin pillow shaped so your eye area isn’t squished and it feels great on your neck!” For scent, Meredith loves Stella by Stella McCartney. “I have worn it forever, and everyone always asks what it is. The only perfume I’ve loved since Stella has been Creed Royal Princess Oud.”

CATHI FRENCH I love this Caudalie Elixir dry oil for mixing with any cream. The perfect cocktail. Instant radiance for the face.

Clinique Blush in Sunset Glow and Colour Surge Eye Shadow Duo in Butter Pecan. Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Firm – full of antioxidants to combat visible lines in the eye area! Paul Mitchell hair products – “These are great!” Caudalie Body Butter

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Never, Ever Give Up! INFIT: Infinity Fitness Family Oriented Local Gym

HEN CESAR CAMACHO announced in 2013 that he was going to rebuild the small fitness center he had started the year before, people in the North Monroe and Sterlington areas were thrilled, especially his gym members. Through fitness, the Colombian-native gym owner and Athletic Director of INFIT -Infinity Fitness had found his calling of helping people change their lives. After working in a corporate job for over a decade, Cesar decided to put his passion for fitness to use and stepped out to create a place where people could feel welcome as soon as they walked in. That’s when INFIT was born. A gym where people can focus on being healthy instead of trying to be “skinny” or getting bulky in front of wall-to-wall mirrors. The trainers eliminate the intimidation factor by connecting with each person and by guiding them through a carefully designed fitness process. INFIT is not a cross-fit box or a 24 fitness facility. It’s a family-oriented local gym that focuses on personal growth and positive change. A second location just opened in Monroe, where Cesar and his staff continue to have an impact in the community to get healthier, happier and to live life to the fullest. They offer a wide variety of classes: BootCamp: A dynamic, high intensity program that combines cardio intervals and weight training, all designed to lose body fat by increasing cardiovascular endurance and strength. The workouts are scaled to match each individual’s level of fitness. No experience required.

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Tabata Classes: The newest hit! This group class uses the most unique approach to fitness. A combination of exercises, tackled in small, timed intervals that will challenge your endurance and help you get in the best shape possible. Zumba: One of the most popular group fitness classes in the world. Combining beats of Latin rhythms with charismatic and high energy instructors, this class feels more like a dance party than a workout! Zumba targets the full body and increases cardiovascular activity. P90X: A group-focused, total-body strength and cardio class that incorporates proven principles from personal training and functional strength coaching and plyometrics. Butts and Guts: This fast paced class that targets lower body and abdominal muscles. Want that flat stomach and a tight tush this summer? This is the perfect class for you! Total Body Sculpt: A 45 minute class that involves high intensity resistance training with small weights. Scaled down to match all levels, this class will make you “feel the burn.” Nutritional Coaching: Clean eating is truly 80% of the program. With certified nutritionists and Beachbody Coaches, INFIT provides a wide range of nutritional solutions to fit every client’s needs. Available with BootCamp and Personal Training. Did we mention you can bring kids to their gym? Yes! INFIT is all about family, and the instructors love seeing your kids in

the gym with you! As Cesar best describes it: “Our children learn from everything we do. So being in the gym and watching their parents work out, teaches kids about discipline, dedication and hard work. It also encourages healthy habits and positive social skills. This helps combat issues like bullying and low self-esteem in children and young adults.” When you join INFIT, the trainers care if you miss class, and they show it by checking up on you. They also give their members a unique sense of responsibility in themselves to share positivity and healthy living habits with others. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete; or whether you’re in great shape or haven’t been to the gym in a while, trainers and members alike will make you feel like you’re part of something. In short, this gym is like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. It’s a place where you feel the support and encouragement by the staff and other members and makes you want to be there. So, no matter your experience level or what physical shape you’re in, there’s a spot for you at INFIT. You should definitely give yourself the chance to go check out their classes in Monroe and Sterlington. This is an investment you won’t regret. To learn more about INFIT go to their Facebook page, or check out their website at: www.infitgym.com.

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Better Living Market The Home of Healthy Fare and Ware

S THE NEW YEAR STARTS, WE INEVITABLY TEND to focus on living better, and our choices become more deliberate and goal oriented toward long-term health and fitness. It is never too late to begin the healthful journey for taking care of yourself. At Better Living Market, we want you to feel welcomed, as you write your own story in the healthful journey experience. Our bodies are designed to heal and thrive, only when given the proper environment. Diet, fitness, vitamins and supplements all play a huge part in providing this proper environment. It can be really confusing to know where to start and what direction to go in, which is where we can help! At the market, we are striving for excellence. We are educating ourselves daily to provide the best knowledge, products and customer service for you. Our goal is to reach out to customers and inspire our community to adopt and live a healthy lifestyle. We believe that wellness should be the natural state of your body, and we’ve made it our primary duty to help you achieve optimal health. Will you join us on the road to Better Living? -Kim Belue, Owner Better Living Market Better Living Market is not your typical, old school health food store. Offering much more than what one would expect, the market aims to sell a lifestyle that incorporates all areas of health and whole body wellness. Located in the heart of downtown Ruston, at the corner of Alabama and Monroe streets, Better Living Market is the premier spot for natural foods, herbs and supplements, vitamins and organic produce; while also housing a large selection of appliances, essential oils, grass-fed beef, craft beers, local honey and more! When renovating Better Living Market, the store worked towards repurposing and recycling materials to add character and preserve the past. The health and beauty cabinets were built from wood that were formerly doors from the original Green Clinic building at the Vienna Street in Ruston. Windows that housed the

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original office of the Ole Wheat Barn Store were transformed to table displays and an old air conditioning vent became a backroom storage. But one of the most original repurposed projects can be found outside. When the Better Living Market sign was delivered from Rapid Signs, they managed to turn the wooden crate into an herb garden for residents to use at no cost. The Market utilizes the hashtag #Rustonbetterliving- a sign showing that the business not only cares about the community, but also, strives to make it better. Owned and operated by Ruston local, Kim Belue, together the whole team is committed to shopping small, supporting local and providing you with all of your health needs right here in our own backyard. Reaching out to the community is one of the market’s key goals. Sponsoring a large part of the Ruston Farmer’s Market new home and renovation cost, Better Living Market is helping by continuously improving the lives of the residents in all areas. On top of providing an excellent avenue for high quality vitamins, herbs and supplements, the staff includes various department experts and an in house nutritionists that can help you plan a customized diet for you and your family. The store is regularly providing samples of products, live demos and hosting industry leaders to talk about all areas of whole body wellness. Located at 301 N. Monroe St. in Ruston, Better Living Market is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Sunday

Available by phone (318) 254-0761. Visit them on the web at www.Betterlivingmarket.com to stay up to date with healthy lifestyle tips, great recipes and more!

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BEGINNING THIS MONTH, the City of Ruston is taking steps to create a greener community. During Ronny Walker’s campaign for mayor of Ruston in 2014, the idea of curbside recycling kept coming up as something citizens really wanted to see happen. A Ruston constituent asked the then-candidate Walker to explore a way to make recycling a reality. The man told Walker that his three girls learn about recycling at school, so their family began recycle at home. But without a place ultimately take the recycled waste, the man was left to take his recyclables to the nearest dumpster bound for the landfill. Thanks to the resourceful Walker, his City of Ruston team and the town’s eco-concerned citizens, Ruston’s new initiative for recycling is well underway; single stream curbside is a reality for the college town with a big heart and a desire to leave the world in better shape. “Clearly, recycling is not a money-making proposition,” says Mayor Walker, “but Ruston had some things going for it that made it easier for us to make curbside recycling work.” Where homes within the city limits once had garbage pick-up twice a week, the regular City of Ruston garbage runs will cut back to once a week. The price for Ruston’s regular waste pick-up remains an extremely low $6 per month. In addition, yard trash, like leaves and branches, can be bagged in a large city-supplied Bagster, and with one phone call can be picked up within 72 hours. But the most impressive change is that with just an added fee of $10 per month, recyclables will be picked up from residential curbs inside the city limits on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month. Within a 3 mile radius in Lincoln Parish, pick-up will be on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month. For those signed up to recycle, Ruston provides separate 92 gallon blue recycle bins, where homeowners can place any kind of paper, aluminum, tin cans, all plastics (1-7) and cardboard. Only glass and Styrofoam are not accepted. With no need to separate recyclables, how easy it is to make our world a little greener! To make recycling happen, Mayor Walker and his assistant, Kourtney Keim, described the complete overhaul the city’s solid waste department had to undertake. Every process was broken down to its most basic of elements, and streamlining and building in efficiencies was the endgame. A $500,000 transfer station was built where recyclables will be offloaded from Ruston garbage trucks and moved onto

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KEEP RUSTON GREEN City of Ruston Offers Curbside Recycling article by MARÉ BRENNAN

18 wheelers. From there, the big trucks transport the recyclables to a facility in Shreveport that will separate the trash and send it on its way to becoming something new again. The hope, according to the mayor, is that Ruston will soon be recycling at least 20% of its trash, saving the Police Jury major money in landfill fees and saving the planet - a total win-win. The first round of household signups netted over 550 homes. In addition, commercial recycling in Ruston will begin in April with 4 or 5 test sites. To kick off the Ruston recycling campaign, the mayor’s office looked no further than the children of the town to lead the way and submit their ideas. Talented Art students from IE Lewis in grades 2-6 were asked to send in drawings and slogans. Rusty Pelican, drawn by Rosie Bennett, is the mascot that is emblazoned on 3 of the city’s garbage trucks, reminding people to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle to “Keep Ruston Green,” which is the slogan developed by Jonathan Gunasekaran. Says Mayor Walker, “Ruston is a great city. Everyone is happy the way it was, but we are looking at quality of life issues and recycling is a big part of keeping our quality of life.” The second round of residential recycling sign-ups is underway with new homes beginning curbside pick-up in the 2nd quarter of the year. For more information about recycling in Ruston, go to www.rustonrecycles.com.

BAYOUHEALTH

The Benefits of RESVERATROL

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ARTICLE BY APRIL CLARK HONAKER

CCORDING TO A RECENT report by Pew Research Center, more than 70% of Americans believe healthy eating is critical to overall health and lifespan. The fact that fruits and vegetables are healthy is common knowledge, but not all fruits and vegetables are equal, and the number of vitamins and supplements to potentially complement them can be overwhelming. As a result, knowing how best to nourish our bodies is difficult. Fortunately, research is continually digging deeper into the makeup of what we consume, helping us better understand the impact on our health. Resveratrol, a substance found in grapes and highly concentrated in red wine, has been the focus of some promising research and has consequently gained widespread attention. In plants, resveratrol is produced in response to stressors, such as infections, drought, radiation and inflammation. Under these circumstances, resveratrol helps protect the plantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cells from damage. As an antioxidant, resveratrol may offer similar protective and preventive effects for people. Indeed, research suggests resveratrol has a range of potential health benefits from reducing inflammation to slowing aging. However, little research has reached the stage of clinical trials. Instead, most research has been conducted in labs and may or may not have used human cells. Still, preclinical testing has helped researchers better understand how resveratrol works, and it suggests resveratrol may potentially treat or protect against the ailments listed on the next page.

CANCER

Researchers at Wenzhou Medical University in China, recently concluded an experiment supporting the use of resveratrol in treatment of colorectal cancer. Another study published last year in Oncology Letters concluded resveratrol could inhibit the spread of cancer cells in squamous cell carcinoma. The same study indicated that prior research had foreshadowed resveratrol’s potential for treating liver, gastric, esophageal, breast and cervical cancer, as well as leukemia.

OBESITY

The results of a human clinical trial published last year in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that resveratrol, when combined with epigallocatechin3-gallate (EGCG), stimulated fat burning when compared with a placebo. EGCG is a type of catechin and antioxidant found in tea, especially white tea and green tea. Interestingly, other catechins are present in red wine as well.

NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES

A recent article in the medical journal Biofactors reported that in preclinical research resveratrol has shown neuroprotective activity that bodes well for treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The authors also acknowledged potential for treating strokes, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease and epilepsy.

SIGNS OF AGING

A study conducted in 2015 by researchers in China, France and Boston concluded that resveratrol improved two aspects of skin’s aging. In laboratory studies, it decreased cell damage and slowed the decrease in skin cell regeneration that accompanies aging. Similarly, clinical research on red blood cells of 91 human subjects led a team in India to conclude that resveratrol may provide some protection against aging.

VIRUSES

In 2015, an article in the journal Advances in Virology reviewed several studies of resveratrol’s antiviral effects. The article summarized preclinical trials, showing resveratrol’s potential for treating a variety of viruses, including Epstein-Barr, flu, herpes, RSV and HIV. However, certain viruses, such as Hepatitis C, actually worsened with exposure to resveratrol. The authors felt research was necessary in humans to better understand resveratrol’s antiviral benefits.

FATIGUE

A 2015 article published in the British Journal of Nutrition indicated that 28 days of

resveratrol supplementation in 30 human participants resulted in reports of more energy when compared to placebo. This research is consistent with previous research showing anti-fatigue activity in mice. However, the researchers urged caution when interpreting their results due to the small number of participants.

HEART DISEASE

In a 2014 article published in the American Journal of Physiology - Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology, researchers stated resveratrol has noteworthy antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and protective effects for the lining of blood vessels and the heart. Their preclinical research suggested potential therapeutic effects of resveratrol for pulmonary hypertension. An earlier article published by researchers in Japan concluded resveratrol could inhibit inflammation in smooth muscle cells of the coronary artery.

INFLAMMATION

Researchers in Germany reported data suggesting resveratrol could be an alternative anti-inflammatory therapy during infection-induced COPD exacerbations. These researchers chose to study resveratrol based on its nature as an antioxidant and its anti-aging capabilities. Similar preclinical research at two medical universities in China found that resveratrol’s anti-inflammatory properties made it a candidate for potential use in treating rheumatoid arthritis and as a nutritional supplement to counteract symptoms of osteoarthritis.

INSULIN RESISTENCE & DIABETES

Last year, an article in the journal Lipids in Health and Disease concluded resveratrol might be useful in treating insulin resistance, which is a known precursor to diabetes. Another recent article in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reviewed 11 human clinical trials and concluded resveratrol markedly enhances glucose control and insulin sensitivity in those with diabetes. Despite the potential suggested by these studies, researchers admit that many of resveratrol’s positive effects are dose dependent. They also acknowledge that potential side effects of resveratrol have not been ruled out. In addition, resveratrol’s bioavailability is low, which means a small portion of the resveratrol consumed actually makes it into circulation. Unfortunately, researchers have just begun exploring this problem. Still, Kathy Weeks of Gibson’s Natural Grocer in Ruston, said she has sold a lot of resveratrol. Some customers claim their

doctor advised it. Others simply want to try a natural treatment before turning to pharmaceuticals. Weeks, who has 13 years of experience in her field, said she can’t legally endorse resveratrol but has several repeat customers. Her own research on the topic included a book by Phyllis A. Balch called Prescription for Herbal Healing, which aligned closely with the scientific research. Balch confirmed the higher concentration of resveratrol in red wine but said supplements could provide an alternative means of consumption, especially if alcohol is ill-advised for a particular person. Other natural but less concentrated means of consuming resveratrol include red grape juice, blueberries, peanuts and pistachios. Like Weeks, Dr. Ronald Koepke, a cardiologist in Monroe, was also hesitant to endorse resveratrol. He said speculation over red wine’s health benefits began years ago with population studies that showed heart attacks were less prevalent in France than in other countries with similarly rich diets. Researchers began to wonder if the French affinity for wine was responsible. But, according to Koepke, subsequent studies have called the connection into question, and no definitive cause-effect relationship was ever established. Although red wine and grapes contain antioxidants, Koepke said, “It hasn’t been proven that taking a lot of antioxidants is beneficial for preventing cardiovascular disease.” He also suggested that consuming resveratrol in red wine can be risky, because some research has shown a correlation between drinking more alcohol than recommended and higher incidents of problems, such as hypertension and certain cancers. According to Koepke, the line that defines what may be beneficial is hazy at best. He said, “If women drink more than one glass of wine a day or men drink more than two, it negates any positive effects.” At the same time, Koepke said his views on red wine are not meant to discredit the Mediterranean diet. According to Koepke, those in Mediterranean countries are more likely to have a glass of wine with evening meals, but their diet is rich in healthy fats and may be better than the typical American diet. In the end, resveratrol and human health are far from being fully understood. Although few risks and side effects of resveratrol have been noted, it’s always best to consult your doctor or nutritionist before changing your health regimen.

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B AYOUKID Z

SETTING GOALS Encouraging Your Children to Create Goals for Themselves article by Cindy G. Foust

appy New Year to our BayouLife nation, as I kick start the year 2017 from the comfort of my office, listening to my Ambrosia Pandora station (because quite frankly, the Christmas music was “just for” getting on my last nerve.) You know, when I was a child, the year 2017 seemed like one of those distant Sci-Fi times where everyone would be living in a space ship, and we would be grocery shopping on Mars. Alas, however, we are still living in a normal house, driving a normal car and shopping at a normal grocery store. Well, except for last week when I was grocery shopping in the refrigerated meat section, and I was traumatized by the “chicken paws” that were for sale. Wait, what? They looked like little fingers and toes and I have to admit, I nearly screamed on the grocery aisle. Well, that’s not entirely true, I did, in fact, scream, and then I did what every other person in the entire world of the universe does when they come across a pack of “chicken paws” in the grocery store…I googled them. As a general rule, they are used for flavoring in your food. Quite frankly, I’d rather season my food with a cow patty (yes, yes, I just said “cow patty” in my column) than these scary little parts of the chicken (because some cultures feel we shouldn’t waste any part of the chicken, therefore, they eat the paws…just FYI.) But after further research, (yes, this month I went all out to give my readers a good dose of expert input) I found that there is actually collagen in chicken paws, and it could help you have healthy, younger looking skin. Are you kidding me? Did I, Cindy Foust, just discover an alternative to surgical and non-surgical facial enhancement? And it’s right in the meat department of your grocery store for the nominal fee of only $1.24? Oh, the joy this column brings me, in being able to help my readers, month after month, especially when I can actually write my article on the same topics that the magazine highlights, this month just coincidentally being “Health and Beauty.” I think we should actually start a “chicken paw” support group now, and everybody bring their special preparation tips, and we can all have beautiful skin using leftover chicken parts. You’re welcome. So, now what? Is that all I got for January, you’re asking? As I

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celebrate my fourth year with BayouLife, I find myself some months, wandering around aimlessly through this Lucille Ball life of mine, trying to keep my column current, and relevant, and interesting for my readers. My goal is to try to elicit a chuckle or two from my readers, all the while, attempting to strike a cord with fellow parents (and grandparents) as we navigate parenthood together. I’m not fishing for a complement, I’m simply saying, life, well, my life anyway, certainly provides ample opportunities to write about. Like this month for instance, since I have already saved the complexion and skin tone of the BayouLife nation, my goal is to, well, talk about goals. It’s that time of year when most adults are busy making resolutions and setting goals for themselves. But what about your children? Do you ever encourage them to set goals for themselves? Goal setting is the “first step toward goal achievement.” I like that idea…a lot. Kids today (well, and grown-ups, too, for that matter) live under intense pressure to succeed and be successful at everything they do, no matter what that is. Grades, sports, cheering, band, choir, jobs…the list goes on and on. But guess what? Not every child is capable of making straight As, or being an All-Star cheerleader or being in All-State choir. These are tough pills to swallow sometimes, but the truth is, they don’t have to be. What they have to be is “the best they can be” (gosh, I hope I sound like Dr. Seuss more everyday...that’s my goal anyway.) Goal setting, for any person, at any age, is what takes us forward in life, and helps us realize or achieve dreams we never thought possible. It also holds us accountable, especially if we write it down and keep it at the forefront of our minds on a daily basis. I will admit I’m the world’s worst at writing my down and monitoring my progress, which is not surprising probably for people who know me, because I have that sort of “there’s a bird” personality. I wish, however, I had started earlier, perhaps I would be more disciplined, because goal setting and goal achievement are about discipline. Oh, and perseverance. I love what Jim Wiltens author of Goal Express says about goal setting for children. First, he says, they must CONTINUED ON PAGE 93

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with shorter chops creates the illusion of sharper angles, almost like a rectangle on end. If you already have a rectangular face, the opposite holds true—shorter on the chin with fuller sides to maintain that squarish shape. Those fortunate to have an egg-shaped, more naturally oval face can do what they like, as long as they skip the jaw dreadlock look. That’s just awful…

2. Were You the Guy Secretly Living with Tom Hanks on that Castaway Island?

Second, those wild hairs twisting and defying gravity must be clipped, or, in other words, trimming is essential to peak beardliness. There are a couple of elementary ways to accomplish a nice shape. One way is using grooming scissors. After washing the beard and giving it a nice massage (okay, the second part is optional and a bit weird), check for frizzy hairs as well as those jutting out at odd angles and simply snip them close to the face. They don’t need to be completely destroyed: hair can be trained to follow directions and join the rest of the pack like a wolf on the plains. Another way is to use beard or hair clippers. Many clippers have length settings so cutting a predetermined length in a uniform fashion has never been easier. One little note: skip the lines and other beard drawings. Honestly, nobody likes that. Nobody.

3. That Lemur isn’t a Pet…I Need Him to Get the Mites

ARTICLE by Nils Borquist

hen we think of guys like Ernest Hemingway, Grizzly Adams and Hagrid from Harry Potter’s world, most of us instantly focus our attentions on the hair tsunamis storming up the faces of burly dudes, creating a Beard-muda Triangle from which no razor can escape. These guys are “man-sters,” half man and half monster, ready to tangle with armies of pumas, rip trees from the ground with bare hands, and chug kegs of beer in one sitting. Seriously, Paul Bunyonesque maneuvers for men with Paul Bunyonesque beards. Big, gnarly, thickets of man-pelt. Even one of the greatest men to lead this country had a rocking beard. No, not Abe Lincoln, though that chinstrap could have been made into three overcoats. Step forward Rutherford B. Hayes—that is, if you can do so without tripping over the behemoth sprouting from your face. While such follicle foliage awesomeness should maybe not be contained in the wilds of 68 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Appalachia, in the world of social interactions where the projection of personal image has risen to such importance, having a beard is not a crime or an offense, as long as one properly grooms. How does one know when to trim those face locks? Run a comb through the beard. If a robin’s egg falls out, or a tribe of pygmies flees, or the beard swallows the comb whole, it might be time for a snip or at the very least a change in beard habits to optimize shape, form and function. The beard needs to be taken care of—it needs attention to feel special. Remember, beards have feelings, too. How, then, does a person properly take care of the beard, so that it may take care of him? There are certainly a few things to consider…

1. Fred Flintstone or Gumby?

First, look at your beardless face. There are natural contours there that dictate the shape of your potential beard. For example, for those with a rounder face, thickness on the bottom

Third, overall beard cleanliness is important for a quality look. Washing the beard is a good first step, but also one must remember to gently pat dry. This is not because the beard is necessarily delicate; no, vigorous drying creates those unwanted snaggles and split ends. Beard oil is a great choice as well. The oil softens the hairs, making them easier to comb and train. A bonus with the oil is the scent. Beard oils come in a wide variety of smells, from mints to citruses to freshly felled birch trees, so when people are randomly burying their noses in the inviting warmth and coziness of your face blanket, you will instantly know why. Beards are cool. The end. However, they are wild animals that have to be tamed for full enjoyment. No one is going to invite a tiger to camp out in the living room, so why would anyone let a wooly mammoth reside on his face? In order to get the most awesomeness from a beard, a harmony must be created and preserved. Following some simple beard grooming steps can have any man looking less like Teen Wolf and more like David Beckham. Disclaimer: okay, you probably won’t look like David Beckham, but at least orangutans won’t be swinging from your face, and I can only assume that is a very good thing.

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BEAUTY | LUXE LOCKS Seen in BayouLife Magazine

Polished Glam

1. Cleanse and treat hair

with Gold Lust Shampoo, Conditioner, and Transformative Masque.

Apply a small

amount of Gold Lust Oil to ends to smooth.

Mist hair

with Royal Blowout for body

and shine and dry hair with

an XL Round Brush or set with photography by Martin G Meyers models: Ellie Jackson, Rebecca Loflin and Taylor Collins makeup by Hillary Dans and James McCready hair by Brittany Kemp, Millicent Oldham, Brooke Hughes and Blake Mason Oribe products available exclusively at Rain Beauty | Body

large Velcro rollers.

Spray

lots of Dry to build additional volume and give hair a sexy,

voluminous look.

Mermaid Waves

1. Cleanse and treat hair with Shampoo

and Conditioner for Moisture and Control. 2. Tousle the hair for texture with Surfcomber and blow dry with your hands, leaving its natural texture. 3. Apply AprĂ¨s Beach to add texture and shine. 4. Use a curling wand to add random curls once hair is fully dry.

5. Tousle the hair and finish

with Impermeable for light hold and

humidity protection.

Seen in BayouLife Magazine

Textured Braid 1. Apply Dry throughout

the hair to add

texture

and height.

Mist hair

with Superfine to

add hold and definition. 3. Pull hair to one side, braid, and secure with elastic. Gently puff out each section of the braid to create

exaggerated texture for a romantic finish. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go for a perfect braidâ&#x20AC;Śkeep it easy, soft and modern.

Seen in BayouLife Magazine

Romantic Waves

1. Cleanse and treat your hair with Shampoo and Conditioner for Brilliance and Shine. 2. Apply Balm dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Or to the mid-shaft through the ends to shield your hair from thermal damage. 3. Apply Maximista to the hair and set with Velcro rollers or dry with a round brush to create volume and waves. 4. Apply Dry to add texture and movement. 5. Wrap sections of hair onto a 1-1/2â&#x20AC;? Curling Iron. 6. Brush out the waves and apply Superfine for added hold. Seen in BayouLife Magazine

The Cinderella Project of Monroe

Local Non-Profit Organization is Collecting Prom Dresses Throughout The Month of January

HE CINDERELLA PROJECT OF Monroe is in its seventh year and provides local junior and senior girls prom dresses, while building self-esteem, self-confidence and the importance of giving back to others. The Cinderella Project of Monroe is collecting prom dresses throughout the month of January for its dress giveaway in the spring. “We have collected hundreds of dresses since we started and been able to serve hundreds of girls right here in our community,” said Ashley Hubenthal, Director of The Cinderella Project of Monroe. Dresses should be age appropriate and suitable for a high school student, clean and in good condition. Donations can be dropped off at Raising Cane’s on Louisville Ave., Raising Cane’s in West Monroe, Raising Cane’s in Ruston, HerringStone’s Boutique, Eleven 26 Boutique, Rodéo Boutique of Ruston, any of the three D&D Cleaners

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locations and any Cross Keys Bank branch in Monroe, West Monroe, Sterlington, Rayville, St. Joseph, Tullulah and Waterproof. After the dresses are collected, The Cinderella Project will host a Dress Giveaway on March 11th at the Monroe Civic Center, open to area junior and senior high school girls. Each girl is assigned a personal shopper, a Cinderella Project volunteer, to help pick out a dress and try dresses on. “Raising Cane’s and Cross Keys Bank are essential to The Cinderella Project because of their convenient locations for drop off points. Plus, they are truly committed to serving their community. We would not have grown without their help,” says Ashley Hubenthal. The Cinderella Project has also grown, thanks to Anna Blake, Miss Louisiana Tech University. She has chosen The Cinderella Project as her platform, promoting the

organization as she travels and makes appearances as part of her reign. Anna has served as a volunteer for the organization for several years. “I have been inspired year after year, as I see the joy on a girl’s face as she finds ‘her dress’ for her senior prom,” said Anna. “The Cinderella Project has impacted the lives of so many young ladies who might not have had the opportunity to attend their prom.” The Cinderella Project of Monroe is already looking for volunteers for the Dress Giveaway in the spring. If you would like to get involved or make a monetary donation, please contact Ashley Hubenthal at Ashley.m.yeldell@gmail.com. For more information on The Cinderella Project of Monroe, please visit cinderellaprojectla.org or facebook.com/CinderellaProjectMonroe.

Medically Supervised Weight Loss Is Losing Weight a New Year’s Resolution for 2017? BY JEN B. AVIS MED, LDN, RD, CDE

S THE 1,200 POUND WATERFORD crystal ball drops in New York City’s Times Square for the 110th year, there will be many New Year resolutions made. Last year, according to Nielsen, the most popular resolutions were to “stay fit and healthy,” “lose weight,” and “enjoy life to the fullest.” Except for financial resolutions, these are similar to the same resolutions that are made year after year. Based on recent statistics, 45% of Americans usually make New Year resolutions, and only 8% of those keep their resolutions all year long. Why is it that we make the same resolutions year after year only to set ourselves up for failure? Here are a few suggestions: 1) Don’t let alcohol and crying on New Year’s Eve determine your resolution. Wait a week or two to determine what

your goal will be and how you want to achieve your goal in 2017. 2) A good resolution should be stated in one sentence. It should be simple and attainable. 3) Your resolution has to be realistic. For example, losing weight is not going to happen on its own, unless you have a devastating disease. It takes a plan to change your current eating habits and making those changes for a lifetime. You must decide what you are willing to do and how you are willing to live for the rest of your life. So many times we set ourselves up for failure by trying to eat the perfect diet, which no one does, and then go back to all the old eating habits that caused the weight gain originally. I have heard time and time again, “If I can just lose the weight, I will

not gain it back,” only to watch each pound come slowly back. There are thousands of ways to lose weight, but statistically only 10 – 20% of people who lose weight keep it off permanently. Just a small amount of weight, as little as 10%, can lower your cholesterol, reverse the onset of diabetes, and improve hypertension or high blood pressure. St. Francis Diabetes and Nutrition Center now offers a 13-week program to assist you in making lifestyle changes to lose weight. Our program, which begins on Monday, January 16th, teaches individuals to utilize tools that prevent them from gaining back the lost weight. Our goal is to help develop an individualized program for each participant, so weight loss goals can be attained. There is no amount too large or too small. Our program provides a positive, realistic way for participants to lose weight and is covered by some insurance companies and Medicare. For more information about our weight loss program, call St. Francis Diabetes and Nutrition Center at (318) 966-5219. We are conveniently located in the St. Francis Community Health Center at 2600 Tower Drive in Monroe.

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The Wedding of Your Dreams The Mansion at Red Hill

HE PERFECT LOCATION FOR THE MOST STUNNING wedding a girl could dream of. The Mansion at Red Hill is an elegant Bed and Breakfast that creates a romantic backdrop for a brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special day. The inviting beauty of the manicured acres, stocked pond, serene setting and elegant home are perfect to make your special occasion decadent and luxurious. Quiet and private, the Mansion can be found off I-20 in Northeast Louisiana, north of the town of Delhi. It is situated on 85 acres of lush grassland with groves of trees and a large pond, complete with fountain and pavilion. The Mansion has an executive suite, four bedrooms, an elevator for guests needing assistance, two living rooms, a dining room, library, a grand staircase foyer, rear courtyard and an expansive front gallery. There are an endless amount of settings for bridals and wedding photos. Nearby sites include the Poverty Point World Heritage Site and Black Bear Golf Club. Included in the wedding package are the use of front porch, courtyard, grounds, the lower floor of the Mansion, 100 white chairs, 17 round tables, linen for the tables, clean up and set up for the event, 3 staff members, and the 1,000-sq. ft. Honeymoon

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Suite. The Honeymoon Suite is available for the bride and her attendants to dress for the big event. The Mansion also provides a delicious breakfast for the Newlyweds the following day. Elegance and decadence are guaranteed in all aspects of The Mansion at Red Hill. If weather is factor on your special day, the interior of The Mansion is spacious and can accommodate all guests. As soon as guests enter the front entrance, way they will be greeted by a grand foyer with a large beautiful staircase and views to the back courtyard. The property is available at 8 am the day of your wedding, giving ample time to be pampered and have pictures taken before guests arrive. The Mansion offers brides unparalleled customer service and strives to make each bride feel at peace and beautiful on their special day. For more information, call 318.878.5155 and start planning your dream wedding today. Photo credit below: Top photo - Kim Wilhite Photography Bottom two photos - Desirae Gooding Photography

House of Carpets and Lighting Well Worth the Drive!

ELLO! ALL OF US AT HOUSE OF Carpets and Lighting in Shreveport are excited to showcase our products to Northeast and North Central Louisiana, and hope you will make the short drive to see us. We promise you will not be disappointed! Remodeling your home? Building a new home? Looking to update a couple of areas in your home? House of Carpets and Lighting has what it takes to make your home look its best. We carry quality flooring, from beautiful hardwood to durable ceramic and porcelain tile, to plush carpet and so much more! We also have a huge selection of backsplash and tumbled stone. House of Carpets and Lighting is the only Shaw Design Center in the area, and we have other top name brands as well. When it comes to lighting, House of Carpets and Lighting combines quality and

selection. We offer a wide range of lighting products that provide the perfect blend of beauty and utility. From beautiful crystal chandeliers, to decorative kitchen and bedroom lighting, to under-counter and LED lighting, you will find the perfect lights for your taste, style and budget! Whether you are looking to update your entire house or just one room, we’ve got you covered! Let us make your home the gem of your street with the perfect exterior lighting solution to highlight the beauty of your home. From subtle lighting accents to landscape lighting and gas lanterns, House of Carpets and Lighting can help you enhance your home’s exterior to match the level of style and beauty of the interior. Accessories are the “cherry on top,” and you will find plenty of treasures at House of Carpets and Lighting. Artwork, lamps, home accessories, mirrors, accent furniture and

vanities – everything to update your beautiful home. However, what sets apart House of Carpets and Lighting is our customer service. Family-owned and operated, House of Carpets and Lighting’s staff is knowledgeable about all of our products. In addition, our design team can guide you when it comes to selecting the best look for your home. We look forward to serving you! We can’t wait for you to visit our showroom at 4344 Youree Drive. Take the Market Street exit off I-20. Market St. becomes Youree Drive, so you will be here in no time! Open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. House of Carpets and Lighting— Well Worth the Drive!

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Sue Paperie is More Than Just Stationery Offering Unique Services for Brides

HE CLOCK HAS STRUCK MIDNIGHT AND THERE ARE many couples that rang in the new year…literally, with an engagement ring! The holidays are a popular time for beaus to drop to one knee and ask their girlfriend to be their fiancée. So, naturally, January kicks off the wedding planning season. And Sue Paperie is THE place to start the planning! Not only does the shop carry unique lines, such as Crane, William Arthur, Vera Wang, Haute Papier, Anna Griffin, Rosanne Beck, OddBalls and Stacy Claire Boyd, Sue Paperie offers a unique service as well. “We know that a wedding is such an important day, so we don’t want brides to feel like they are making a quick decision or rushed in the middle of a busy store. We have a private space just for them,” said Rachel Davison, owner. The bridal loft is reserved for brides to come in and choose their products for their wedding. Brides can schedule appointments for the bridal loft, giving them time and advice on deciding on save the date cards, invitations and stationery. “We offer a one stop shop for everything a bride would need,” said Rachel. “From save the date cards, invitations, coordinating stationery, response cards and gift enclosures, we offer it all!” In addition to stationery, Sue Paperie offers monogrammed and personalized options for dinner and cocktail napkins, towels, koozies, coasters, Styrofoam and frost flex cups and a variety of party favors.

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Adding another personalized element to the experience, Sue Paperie often works with Paperglaze Calligraphy and helps brides find a unique look for all of their printed products. In addition, the shop has their own in-house graphic designer to help brides create their one-of-a-kind look. Sue Paperie offers items that will add a personalized touch to the entire wedding process. Brides often like to ask their bridal party to be a part of their big day in a special way, and Sue Paperie offers unique cards asking “Will you be my Maid of Honor?” or “Will you be my Bridesmaid?” Plus, you can grab a lovely gift for those wedding party attendants to say ‘thank you’ for standing beside you. For the girls, there are coordinating sets of notebooks, cards, cups and bags from designers like Lilly Pulitzer and Kate Spade. There are gifts for guys too, like Eccolo leather journals and personalized shaving bags. While Sue Paperie is known for their options for brides, they also carry unique lines of invitations for all occasions, personalized stationery, notes, greeting cards, gifts and more. Sue Paperie is located in the heart of downtown Ruston at 112 W. Park Avenue. Their hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Happy New You Take Your Fitness Goals to the Next Level BY TIMOTHY J. MICKEL, MD, CERTIFIED, AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY

“A lot of people are afraid of heights. Not me, I’m afraid of widths.” Steven Wright

VE’ HEARD IT SAID THAT INSIDE most of us is a thin person struggling to get out... but who can usually be sedated with some cookies or a piece of chocolate cake! As the New Year begins, fitness club parking lots will be packed and cross-fit classes will be full. But after a few weeks, they will empty out. Then my parking lot will be packed and my waiting room full. If only our willpower matched our resolve. But hey, I’m not complaining. Most people think plastic surgery is an alternative to working out. Either you sweat and toil and burn off the fat, or you have it sucked out. Either you tighten skin by building muscle, or you have the skin cut off. I strongly believe that the two things are complementary. The first step in all body

contouring is diet and exercise. Patients who are fit and close to their ideal body weight are better surgical candidates for a number of reasons. First, a fit patient will get a better result, because the procedure will entail fine-tuning, not a total overhaul. Second, a fit patient will be more likely to meet me halfway and maintain optimal results, because they will have the discipline to work out and maintain muscle tone after surgery. Third, fit patients heal better, because fitness means better blood flow and oxygen delivery to the tissues. Finally, anyone familiar with the hard work that goes into a fitness regimen tends to be more realistic about the results. Even though surgical results can be dramatic, they usually won’t take you from the couch to the front of Shape Magazine overnight. So, set a goal, and stick with it. As Yogi Berra famously said, “If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up somewhere else.” Make a New Year’s resolution, and do

your best to persevere. Whether your goal is to have sculpted arms, awesome abs or a beautiful back, work hard and keep at it. When you’ve done all you can do and you still have problem areas that just won’t improve, come see me, and we can discuss surgical options, like liposuction and abdominoplasty, or non-surgical options like Coolsculpt for making you look your best. Of course, there is no exercise to increase your cup size--so if you want “bikini breasts,” the only option is surgery. I wish everyone a safe, happy and prosperous New Year. Good luck reaching your fitness goals, but if you hit the wall or are simply ready to take it to the next level, call Mickel Plastic Surgery at 388-2050 to see if breast or body contouring surgery is right for you. Visit www.mickelplasticsurgery.com for more information.

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Congratulations Dr. Gordon Louisiana O.D. of the Year 2016

HE TEAM AT FAMILY EYE CARE ON FORSYTHE IN Monroe would like to express how proud they are of the success and commitment Dr. William Gordon provides to optometry. He has accomplished so much and continues to work and improve the lives of everyone he comes in contact with. Born in Quantico, Virginia, Dr. Gordon began his education at Albany Junior College and continued on to the University of Georgia. He then moved to Tennessee and began his studies of Optometry at Southern College of Optometry, where he received his doctorate of optometry. Though he has accomplished much within his life, he will jokingly tell you that convincing his wife, Charvie Byford, to marry him in July of 1993 was his greatest achievement. He has worked as a Clinical Optometrist in North Louisiana for 34 years. Of the 34 years, 32 have been in private practice at Family Eye Care in Monroe, LA, where he now lives. Dr. Gordon has achieved much throughout his career. He was Northeast Louisiana Optometry Society President from 2005-2010. He became President of the Optometry Association of Louisiana in 2012 until 2013. He has also been active legislatively in the passage of all our Optometry Bills for the past 25 years. As past President of the OAL, he worked to get the Laser and Surgery Bill passed. These are just few of his accomplishments, but his latest accomplishment is being named the 2016 Optometrist of the Year by The Optometry Association of Louisiana. He is an active member in the American Optometric Association, Optometry Association of Louisiana and the Northeast Louisiana Optometric Society and strives to improve and work for our community and our state in his respected field. Family Eye Care delivers the best comprehensive eye care available to the residents of the Northeast Louisiana. The clinic offers comprehensive eye exams, managing routine and complex eye disease with the latest technology in eye care. They also provide contact lens care for both simple and complex eye conditions. Family Eye Care is proud to provide high quality, fashionable eyewear with the best customer service available. Schedule an appointment with our office today to see how we can help you get the best care for your eyes. You can call to set up an appointment at 318-8072020. Dr. William Gordon and his wife, Charvie, would like to thank the community for their continued support and to wish everyone a Happy New Year for 2017!

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Teeth Whitening Teeth Whitening at Bayou Dental BY DAVID FINLEY, D.D.S

BEFORE

AFTER

OUR SMILE CREATESAN IMMEDIATE,SUBCONSCIOUS, visual impact on people you meet. A brighter smile gives the impression of youth, vitality, radiant health, happiness and warmth. A bright smile is perceived as a healthy smile. Be sure to consult with your AACD Fellow, Dr. David Finley to learn which whitening treatment is best for you. Teeth whitening remains one of the most economical ways to enhance your smile. Smiles Are Valuable Statistics reveal that we place a high value on our smiles. According to an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry survey: • Virtually all adults (99.7%) believe a smile is an important social asset. 96% of adults believe an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to members of the opposite sex. • Three-quarters (74%) of adults feel an unattractive smile can hurt a person’s chance for career success. • And when respondents were asked, “What would you like to improve most about your smile?” The most common response was: Whiter and brighter teeth. If you are not happy with your smile, teeth whitening may be a good first step.

Are you looking to impress at an important job interview? Do you want to make the best impression at an upcoming party? Do you just want to feel better about the appearance of your smile? If you’re looking for a hassle-free and safe way to whiten your smile, the whitening services at Bayou Dental may be the solution you are looking for! Our methods of professional teeth whitening are among the most successful and lauded home teeth whitening and in office teeth whitening services are the best. Bayou Dental provides a safe, effectual, convenient and cost-effective way to whiten your teeth and give you the flawless smile you were meant to have. There are several benefits that come along with teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening removes persistent stains and brightens your smile, leaving you with more self-confidence and less embarrassment about your dingy smile. You will no longer feel the need to smile with a closed mouth or shield your teeth when laughing or talking. You can show your smile off with confidence and finally feel proud of the way you look. Plus, getting your teeth whitening performed by a professional at Bayou Dental is much safer and effective than using an over-the-counter whitening product.

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Simply Lou Boogie Down To Texas

so love Texas. I can’t really explain why, I just do. It seems like every time I have ever been there, I feel like I’m home. Maybe I lived there in a past life. Maybe I was an outlaw or maybe a big oil man. It was obviously a happy life, so I’ll just go with that. My son, Adam, and his girlfriend, Chelsey, live in Taylor, Texas. They got me a plane ticket to come out there, and I grabbed that “ticket to ride.” Taylor is about 30 miles northeast of Austin. I ended up staying 2 weeks. The first time I ever went to Austin, I thought I had died and gone straight to heaven. I could not believe how eccentric, humorous and artsy it was. Oh, and the music! How do you not like a city whose motto is “Keep Austin Weird?” I have loved everywhere I have ever been in Texas. I was only 5 years old, when I first rode across that big state on the way to Carlsbad Caverns in southeastern New Mexico. I truly love Texas, except for DFW. I had forgotten how much I hated that airport. I’ve never made it through that place without getting lost. I had 45 minutes to find my gate. I had to get from “point who knows” to point “you can’t get there from here.” That damn gate kept getting further and further away. I almost missed my plane, but somehow I made it just in time to take off to Austin to “my people.” Landing in Austin, the first thing I noticed

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article by Lou Davenport was Adam and Chelsey at the bottom of an escalator alongside huge sculpted guitars! Oh yeah, I was home. I think I even heard Robert Earl Keen singing “The Road Goes on Forever and the Party Never Ends!” First stop was Curra’s in Austin where I was introduced to an avocado margarita! Don’t knock it til you try one! Then, I dined on the best Mexican food I had ever had in my life! I got to see the “Graffiti Wall.” The graffiti wall goes up one of those big Austin hills on the walls of some abandoned building. There was a little bit of everything painted there...and painted well. I soaked it all in. I fell in love with Taylor immediately. It’s a little Texas town undergoing a true renaissance! Texas just seems to appreciate what it has and takes good care of it. Taylor definitely is! Taylor will charm you. And everybody is happy! Yes, happy! I didn’t know how to act. Taylor has a monthly art crawl, and there I was, kicked back with a good glass of wine listening to Adam and his band mates playing some great music...in an alley! These guys don’t rehearse. They just get together and play! And, they are good! They were playing behind the Texas Beer Co., a local brewery. Yes, they had some really good beer. I had some delicious Texas barbecue there, and the band came in and took the stage again. Adam has put his stamp on downtown Taylor, and I finally got to see his work. He welds some fine metal! His work seemed

to be everywhere, and to say I was not one proud Mama would be an under statement. Not many know he even paints! He loves his welding! Everybody I met knew him and Chelsey! Yeah, I was proud! And I definitely know why they love Taylor. It seemed that you get there and you are welcomed with open arms! From there, I got the grand tour of every thing nearby. I got to see the house that was used to film “Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” and the water tower with a “happy face” painted on it that was in the last “Transformers” movie. Up in Granger, I learned John Wayne had filmed “True Grit.” Granger’s old City Hall has an onion dome. It is for sale, and I yearned to buy it, fix it up and live in it! Coupland had a sculpture garden by a world renowned sculptor, and a few blocks away, there was a pig pen complete with baby pigs! Where else but in Texas? Did I mention all the good food? It wasn’t all barbecue, either! Over in Hutto, “home of the Hutto Hippos,” their high school’s mascot, there’s sculptures of painted hippos everywhere! Hutto is also home to “The Texan Cafe” that has a large plaster cow head on their sign. I was told the owner sports a big mohawk haircut. They are famous for their pies! It’s on my list for next time. I got to enjoy my first Vietnamese food in Hutto, “Pho Tai!” Up in Georgetown, I had pizza from “600 Degrees”

and drooled. Over in Roundrock, we had donuts from “Roundrock Donuts” in a park that has the authentic Round Rock! The donuts were orange! There was plenty of good food everywhere we went. I think I may have gained 10 pounds. One night, Adam grilled boudin and fresh jalapeños wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cream cheese. Chelsey prepared her “Mexican Lasagne.” More good food! I ended up staying for Thanksgiving, and we ended up at their friend’s home. Judy’s home is a renovated Texas farmhouse, and the crowd was a mix of people from all over the world, just like the food. I taught Adam to make my Thanksgiving dressing, and it was such a hit that everybody ate it all! A real Texas Thanksgiving I will never forget! I sat out back admiring that Texas sky a lot. I could make out constellations. “The stars at night really are big and bright in Texas!” I kept looking at something one of those nights that was made up of 3 “stars.” The formation reminded me of a rhinestone necklace I like to wear. It never moved. UFO? It was an “unusual foreign object.” I called everybody to see. We couldn’t decide. Later, it was gone! Aliens? Had to have been! Adam and Chelsey saved “the best for last!” Over in the hill country is a local winery, called Perisso’s. We “tasted” 6 different kinds of their wine, and I have to say, “I loved them, every one!” There was even a chicken there, “relentless” in her search for crackers! Just a beautiful day, kicked back enjoying that Texas breeze, drinking wine, eating fresh fruit and crackers...with a chicken! The day came for me to return “to the real world,” so off I flew for Houston International. Ok, there are TWO things I don’t like in Texas, both airports. In the 2 weeks I had in Taylor, I hadn’t had any “misadventures.” But. those things found me in Houston. Using a “secret” I had learned, I made it to the gate. Without it, I may still have been wandering around that place! But, my misadventures were only beginning! Using my “secret” again, I got to my gate at DFW in plenty of time, only to find my flight had been delayed. At midnight, they canceled it. People cussing in at least 20 different languages. Visions of sleeping at DFW flashed through my mind! That wasn’t working for me. They said we could all fly out the “day after tomorrow!” Uh huh! More cussing in foreign languages ensued. Things were getting ugly at Gate 2222. I called Adam and Chelsey. Help! They got me on another airline the next day, a shuttle to a hotel and a room. Escape from DFW! Next morning, the shuttle arrived. I don’t think “Mr. Toad” could have driven a more “wild ride” than this driver. Nauseated, I got to the gate. Yes, I did use my “secret.” Then, I tried to find my phone. GONE. It had bounced out. All I could do was just laugh. I was now “incommunicado.” Thankfully, Paige was there to meet me as she talked to Adam. Felt nice that they were concerned about ol’ Mom. Then, Paige started laughing. She saw “my secret!” Here’s my “secret.” If you find yourself having to go through DFW or Houston International airport, tell your airline desk, you need assistance! They will be waiting for you with a wheel chair and driver! Those people know where to go. I loved being “wheeled around!” I felt like a Queen! I have thought about Texas a lot, since I’ve been home. I know without a doubt, a part of me lives there. Where else am I going to see a possible UFO or drink wine with a chicken? My thanks to Adam, Chelsey and Dakota for making my trip so wonderful. Dakota, thanks for your bed! Thanks to all the people I met in Taylor, Texas for welcoming me! To Paige for taking her “ignunt” Mom to the airport and for “picking up the Queen” without rolling your eyes and laughing too much! I try not to disappoint! Dear DFW and Houston International, I have y’all figured out now! I might fly first class next time! Happy New Year’s y’all! WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2017 83

THE SOUL MAN

On the verge of retirement, Robert Finley has found new life by strapping on his guitar, traveling from venue to venue, and proving that it is never too late to live your dream. Article by NILS BORQUIST & Photography by AARON GREENHOOD

ANY PEOPLE ON THE VERGE OF retirement look forward to days spent away from the normal bustle of working life. Time, our most precious commodity, swiftly flitters by and away, with days building into decades, all culminating in a period where attempts at decelerating those ever-moving gears become a priority in order to squeeze a minute of enjoyment out of every second lived. If the standard wisdom prescribes to slow down to embrace every moment, Robert Finley’s retirement years have thus far flown in the face of that logic. In the midst of his sixth decade, Mr. Finley has found new life by strapping on a guitar, traveling from venue to venue, and singing his songs his way, realizing the dreams of his youth. At a young age, Robert Finley gravitated towards music. Growing up in Bernice, Louisiana, Finley listened to the gospel music that filled the churches of his youth, absorbing the sounds, the structures, and the soul. In particular, he focused on the guitar, on the way a person’s fingers could cull life from the wood and strings and make it sing. When an older brother got a guitar, the younger Finley found himself wishing he could get his fingers on one as well. Once sent out with some money intended to purchase shoes and with a group of friends, Finley instead found a guitar. Lacking the full funds, his friends stepped in and helped him buy his first guitar, and the seed once only dreamt of was fully sown. As he got older, gospel music remained a powerful force for Finley, but other influences began to mingle. B.B. King, James Brown, and even the emerging Jackson 5 swirled about young Finley’s head, and he practiced his playing and singing, trying to achieve a sound similar to those he heard from the tinny crackle of the speakers. While gaining in proficiency, Finley now looks back on those years with a hint of regret. Although he knows that a certain amount of imitation absolutely helps a young aspiring musician, a horrible mistake of trying to be someone else can also wrest away creativity and a willingness to experiment. Fortunately, even during those years, Finley began developing the sound that resounds from stages five decades later. After a stint in the military during which Finley was in the wonderful position of bandleader, and could hone his technical skills, he returned to the States with the intent of becoming a full-time musician. It was not to be. Unable to catch the break so often needed to gain a foothold in the entertainment world, Finley was forced to find alternate means to earn a living. Turning to carpentry, a trade taught to him by his father, Finley spent the next several years measuring and cutting, planning and building, all the while continuing to play at every opportunity no matter the style. He performed in R & B bands, soul bands and gospel groups, enjoying every performance while also never understanding why he was not being discovered. As the years stacked up, Finley’s bands took on various forms as old members left to be replaced by new faces that eventually passed on, exchanged in a revolving cycle of performers grinded by the night hours. Finley, though, keep pushing, recognizing that his dream was not a flame to be simply extinguished. Still, no record executives were pursuing Finley. Fortunately, though, fate sometimes has a funny way of introducing herself, often quietly lurking in the shadows to spring up, when one has grown weary of looking for her. A few years ago, Finley began to notice that he was having difficulty seeing lines to cut while at work. He realized that he was losing his ability to see, and he eventually was diagnosed with glaucoma, a condition that would take his vision completely in one eye. As the damage became worse, Finley would be declared legally blind, as he also has lost over half his vision in his other eye, the carpenter understood that he would be forced to quit his profession. However, he retained his ability to play guitar and play well. As a tool in his showmanship repertoire, Finley had years earlier taught himself to play guitar behind his back and head, thereby gaining the skill to use his hands and fingers independent of his eyes. This fortuitous skill would help him reap a career and life from that seed planted decades earlier.

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Late in 2015, while playing in Helena, Arkansas at the King Biscuit Blues Fest, Finley busked on a sidewalk before the time he was to hit the stage. As passers-by listened, they would place money in his ever-present black hat and take photos with him. One person stopped and lingered for quite a while, before introducing himself as Tim Duffy, the man who would eventually help Finley get a record deal. Finally, after 50 years of playing music in seclusion, on stages in towns stretching no wider than a couple of streets, and in clubs darker than the midnight sky, Robert Finley was recognized as an artist. The last two years have seen Robert Finley go from a Monroe, Louisiana, favorite to playing in New York for packed houses. He is in complete awe concerning his current situation, though he is not completely shocked. In his words, and with a signature raspy laugh, Finley says heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just glad people have finally come to their senses. After years of trying to be like everybody else, he adds, he gave being himself a shot, and it has certainly paid off. As a dreamer, he always felt that he would get his chance one day, so he never gave up hope. Even though heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in his sixties now, he still feels he was in the right

place at the right time, and the opportunity to live out a lifelong dream coming at this stage of his life is better than never coming at all. With his newfound success, Finley is setting bigger goals. He believes that once a person is satisfied, it is easy to lose a sense of purpose, which can lead to an aimless and fruitless life. He loves what he is doing, yet he still finds the time to be involved with church and gospel music. In fact, in his words and again accompanied by that infectious laugh, he sings gospel music for soul salvation and rhythm and blues to pay the bills. With his songs, he is also able to spread a message of hope, of living life to the fullest. He does not want to sing classic blues songs about sadness and despair, instead focusing on a more upbeat style, espousing the joy of life and the pleasure one can find when grasping each opportunity life presents with a smile and a good attitude. As a dreamer himself, Finley wishes everyone would approach life in a similar fashion. He knows full well what can happen when we hang on to dreams, believe in ourselves and take the chance to fulfill them, no matter our ages.

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Northeast Louisiana’s Master Gardeners 7th Annual Gardening Seminar

HE NORTHEAST LOUISIANA Master Gardeners Association, in conjunction with Ag Expo, cordially invites everyone to attend our seventh annual January gardening seminar “Farm to Table: The Freshest Foods Are in Our Own Back Yards” on Saturday, January 14th, 2017, at the West Monroe Convention Center. Doors will open at 7:30 a.m. The program will include three expert speakers, door prizes, refreshments, a centerpiece contest and exhibits by members of the Northeast Louisiana Master Gardeners Association. KEYNOTE SPEAKER JUDY BARRETT was the founding editor and publisher of HOMEGROWN: Good Sense Organic Gardening. She was previously the editor of The New Garden Journal and a host of the television series, The New Garden. Judy is also the author of several gardening books including: Tomatillos: A Gardener’s Dream, A Cook’s Delight and How To Become An Organic Gardener in 7 Easy Steps. Her newest book, Easy Edibles: How to Grow

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and Enjoy Fresh Food, came out in 2015. Judy is a columnist for the Austin American-Statesman and on gardening for Edible Austin, ACRES U.S.A and the Harris Old Farmer’s Almanac. Judy speaks to groups about gardening across the South and Southwest regions. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Texas at Austin and has edited books on a variety of topics, including gardening, business, medicine and others. Visit Judy’s website, www.HomegrownTexas.com. DAVID YOUNG spent 10 years in commercial agriculture in Indiana and Michigan and completed the Michigan State University Ag Tech Dairy Production program. In 2008, he left and became a full time volunteer with Brethren Disaster Ministries. His first trip to New Orleans was to rebuild houses damaged by Hurricane Katrina where discovered there was a greater need there and founded Capstone, a 501C3 non-profit in the Lower 9th Ward. Capstone grows food and shares it with those in need at no or reduced cost. Today, it has expanded to operating on 24 previously blighted and vacant lots in the Lower 9th Ward

and two acres in Plaquemines Parish. Their mission is accomplished through community gardens and orchards, helping others start their own gardens and a growing empowerment program, called Sharing Lots. They also keep 60 bee hives and sell Capstone Raw Honey as a revenue source. JOHN COTTON DEAN is the Director of Regional Innovation for the Central Louisiana Economic Development Alliance. Dean helps lead CLEDA’s Central Louisiana Local Food Initiative which aims to strengthen Central Louisiana’s local food economy, while also increasing access to fresh food for all the region’s residents. He has over ten years of research and professional experience focusing on the development of food policy councils and rural economic development through local food. Dean graduated from Iowa State University in 2012 with both a Master of Science in Sustainable Agriculture and a Master of Community and Regional Planning. KATIE SCHROEDER moved to Louisiana 2 years ago from Michigan, where she graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Agribusiness Management and a specialization in sustainable agriculture and food systems. She is currently an agronomist at Black Gold Farms in Delhi, La. Katie is working with the Louisiana Farm to School program to bring healthy, local food to Richland Parish. Katie is also a Louisiana Master Gardener.

A Valentine’s Treat

Louisiana Opera Opens Season with Fundraiser

ouisiana Opera opens its fifth season on Friday, Feb. 12th with a fundraiser for the opera company held in Kilbourne Hall at Grace Episcopal Church in Monroe’s Garden District. Excerpts from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved musical, Carousel, will be presented by members of the Louisiana Opera, professional singers from throughout the U.S. and local Monroe talent from ULM and the community. Welcomed back to Monroe is baritone Corey McKern, who sang the role of the Barber in the LA Opera production of The Barber of Seville this past June. Soprano Betsy Uschkrat, the former Miss Indiana, will also return to Monroe after so many stellar performances in Monroe. Betsy and Corey will be Julie and Billy in the

musical about the star-crossed lovers ill-fated romance. “If I Loved You” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone” are only two of the many well-known tunes in the show. Also returning is tenor Tyler Smith and baritone Ron Ulen. Familiar to our audience will be Monroe residents Claire Vangelisti, Lynn Clark, and pianist Richard Seiler. The party kicks off at 7:00 p.m., and heavy hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be served. Admission will be $40 per person. Tickets will go on sale by January 8, and will be available at Fiesta Nutrition, 1211 N. 18th Street, and in the VAPA office at the University of Louisiana-Monroe Biedenharn Music Building during university office hours, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. For more information, call (318) 342:3247.

Larger than Life Art Opportunity for Visual Artists

One NCLAC member artist will be chosen from entries received to have an image of his/her artwork publicly displayed on a billboard for a 6-month period of time. The featured artist will change every 6-months per chosen media. The dimensions for the artwork or photograph of the artwork must fit a 3:1 ratio being that the size of the billboard has a 30ft width and 10ft height. The Spring2017 call is open to SCULPTURE submissions. The next call, Fall2017, will be open to Mixed Media submissions. TO APPLY: Send your submissions digitally to nclac5@gmail.com, with the subject line Billboard Contest. Winner will be chosen by a panel of judges. DEADLINE for the Spring2017 Billboard Call for Entry is February 1st at 5pm. NCLAC extends a very special thank you for Rodney Driggers’ generous donation of this billboard space. If someone is not a NCLAC member but wishes to apply for the Billboard Contest, becoming a member is easy. To become a member of the North Central Louisiana Arts Council, you may visit nclac.org. Levels begin at $15. For questions about the Billboard Contest, call the NCLAC office at (318)255-1450.

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Begin 2017 on a Healthy Note

Landmark Nursing and Rehab Center in West Monroe celebrates 156 pounds gone! BY ANDI HOLYFIELD, REGISTERED DIETITIAN, LICENSED NUTRITIONIST

NE OF THE MOST COMMON CONCERNS I AM asked when losing weight is, “Do I have to buy into diet pills, shakes and lifetime membership fees?” Fortunately, in the hands of a 15 year experienced weight loss RD, LDN, there are realistic options to lose weight, get off medications and improve work productivity. Landmark Nursing and Rehab Center hired Andi Holyfield to accelerate staff productivity and improve the health of their 14 staff workers, as they remodeled the entire facility. The eager group of 14 learned the Eat to Lose program developed by Andi Holyfield, licensed nutritionist and author of three books available on Amazon. Celebrating a total of 156 pounds of fat gone, several ladies decrease blood pressure/diabetes/cholesterol/reflux medications, had increased energy, and better morale in the work place. Within the first 6 weeks Melissa lost 28 pounds, leaving her looking and feeling better than she has since high school! ETL provides these results by working with your body chemistry naturally- without gimmicks or surgery. “I am down 28 pounds today, thanks to Eat to Lose. The hardest part of the program was the first week, and the easiest part was how Andi prepared my grocery list for me, so there was no room to make mistakes,” employee Melissa Walker said. A 2016 study revealed a strong culture of health increases financial wealth in the workplace and decreases sick days. Eat to Lose delivers comprehensive services that save time and money, conserve valuable staff resources and offer your staff high quality health services. The American Psychology Association has found when a company pays for employees to lose weight, it shows the staff that their boss cares and views them as family. This creates ownership in the company and increases productivity! Losing weight with Andi’s customized program is now easier than ever. Corporate wellness allows large groups to participate through live webinars, computer applications and personal visits to your place of work. When 10 or more employees or friends enroll, they receive a $100 discount on program costs. Often, insurance providers offer discounts on premiums as health goals are met, which save employers and employees in health related costs. Fire up your metabolism with your own customized diet today! Call or text Andi Holyfield at (318) 348-3120, or visit eattolose.net to email Andi and begin your journey today. Curious how Eat to Lose can serve you? Contact Andi Holyfield today. Healthy Lifestyle Changes for Couples, Groups, Families and the work place. eat to lose.net • 318-348-3120

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St. Francis Medical Center Kitty DeGree Breast Health Center at St. Francis

HE KITTY DEGREE BREAST HEALTH CENTER IS NOW

located in its new location at the St. Francis Community Health Center on Tower Drive. Combining state of the art technology, dedicated radiologists and staff and an attractive, warm spa-like atmosphere, the center offers a unique all-in-one solution for comprehensive, multidisciplinary breast care. From routine breast screenings to prompt evaluation and treatment of breast disorders, the center offers a complete range of diagnostic and treatment services, including digital mammography and high definition breast MRI technology. These advanced techniques provide crystal clear imaging for more accurate diagnoses, as well as reducing physical discomfort and exam time for patients. When additional studies beyond the initial screening are required, wait time for follow-up appointments is greatly reduced. Often, patients can be seen the same day. Also an essential care component, the Kitty DeGree Lymphedema Clinic offers services and treatment for those suffering from lymphedema. This condition is often caused by injury, scarring, radiation or excision of lymph nodes, repeated infections or vascular insufficiencies. Bone density testing is also available at the Community Health Center location. Through the vision of the late philanthropist, Mrs. Kitty DeGree, the dedicated team members and medical staff at the Breast Health Center work with various partner agencies to provide programs and services to the public. The local chapter of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure has a resource room and affiliate office located on-site that offers educational materials. The American Cancer Society provides a quarterly “Look Good, Feel Better” program that includes a makeup session, scarves and wigs free of charge to breast cancer patients. A second location, Kitty DeGree Breast Health Imaging, is located in the James R. Wolff P&S Building at 312 Grammont Street in downtown Monroe, adjacent to the downtown campus of St. Francis Medical Center. This location offers digital screening mammography, with walk-ins welcome. The Kitty DeGree Breast Health Center team looks forward to continuing the mission of extending the healing ministry of St. Francis Medical Center to the mothers, daughters, sisters, wives and friends throughout the region. We offer the convenience of walk-in screening digital mammography with a healthcare provider’s order at both of our locations. However, if you prefer to schedule an appointment or for more information about services at either of our locations, please call (318) 812-PINK.

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Fiesta Nutrition Center Great Things Are Happening in 2017 BELLY! Yes, Belly. It’s our new customized loyalty program that offers unique rewards to our customers through the BellyCard mobile app, rewards card and email. It’s very easy to sign up and participate. Just by stopping in to shop you can begin to accumulate points for things you actually want like free products, discounts and gift cards. By participating in the Belly program you will also be notified of in-store specials, news and events. This program will launch on Friday , January 7, 2017. WE’RE TURNING 40! We’re just hitting our prime ! We’ve seen a lot in forty years in the world of health and nutrition. In this time we have learned what is real and what is fad and do our best to educate our customers. We are proud to be serving our fourth generation

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of customers. Fiesta will celebrate with our Anniversary and Customer Appreciation Celebration on March 24 and 25. We want to thank our loyal customers that have supported us in our growth since our smaller store on Louisville Ave. The two-day event will be a huge celebration with door-prizes, drawings for great prizes, sampling , and mini educational seminars throughout the days. Stay tuned for more details in Bayou Life, Facebook , Instagram and the Belly app. SPECIALTY LIQUOR DEPARTMENT. The latest addition to our impressive natural grocery department is Organic Wine and Beer. The selection will include the top-sellers from vendors of unique vineyards and craft beers from around the world, as well as locally.

CAFÉ REMODELING. We are in the midst of a remodel of the café space with a new fresh look and menu. The project should be completed midJanuary. Again, stay tuned for details. Our Fiesta Family is grateful for the blessings and challenges of 2016 and looks forward to a great New Year. This community understands the concept of supporting local business and that support inspires us. Fiesta Nutrition Center is located at 1211 North 18th Street in Monroe. Keep up with us on Facebook and Instagram. For information or questions, visit our website, drop by and visit our helpful staff or call 387-8446.

SETTING GOALS Continued from Page 66 write it down, so they can visualize it. This could be for something as simple as saving for a video game they want. Which is the next step, and that is to make their goal specific. Next, write down the pros and cons of each goal, even if it’s just one goal they have on their list. I love the fourth step when he says to define the steps by asking the “three W’s”: Who can help?; What do I need to do?; and When do I need to do it? I love this. Finally he says, to monitor their progress. Not every goal will be attainable in a nanosecond. But every goal that your child sets is noteworthy to them, so it should be noteworthy to you. That’s part of our job, as parents, is to be cheerleaders, encouragers and gate-keepers. Helping our children realize their goals is a privileged part of being a parent. Our children are going to fall short sometimes, they will get frustrated and, perhaps, want to give up. But as a parent, we can stand in the gap for them when this happens and help them refocus or readjust their strategy. We can be an example for them

by setting our own goals and show them the different steps we are taking to realize our own dreams or ambitions. Goal setting at an early age can become a good, healthy habit that follows them into their adulthood. And goodness gracious, we all need as many healthy habits as we can stand, right? So get cracking readers…get those notebooks out and sit down for another infamous “family meeting” with your children and start working on goals for 2017: A Space Odyssey (that sounds like a cool children’s book) and approach this as a family project. Hold each other accountable throughout the year and applaud their successes as they reach their goals. It’s a great, “healthy” way to start the new year, much healthier than using chicken paws to enhance the flavor of your soup, in my humble opinion. Happy New Year readers, I know you can’t wait for my next shopping expedition, so I can continue to be instrumental in helping wage the war on wrinkles, goal achievement and food enhancement.

Holiday Arts Tour Winning Artists The North Central Louisiana Arts Council’s Holiday Arts Tour was held December 2nd and 3rd in downtown Ruston. NCLAC is pleased to announce the following award winners: Judge’s Choice Awards went to Raluca Iancu for her sculpture “Fox”, and to Nicholas Bustamante for his painting “Migration’s Return;” People’s Choice Award, by popular vote, went to Linda Dwyer; and the Art in Action Award was presented to Jessica Horne, for the painting she created in one hour at the Art in Action competition. NCLAC’s Holiday Arts Tour was supported Title Sponsor Fine Line Supply Co., and by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council and administered by the Shreveport Regional Arts Council.

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PHOTOGRAPHER MARTIN G MEYERS MUAH MEKA BENNETT MODELS ELLIE JACKSON CHLOE CANTU ANANSI THOMAS

New Year’s Eve is right around the corner. So, whether you’re gearing up for a girl’s night out, staying in with friends or hitting the hottest club in town – these nine looks will help inspire you for the year’s biggest party night. 94 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

BEEHIVE RUSTON, LA

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NEW ATTITUDE HAIR DESIGN BOUTIQUE LACOUR 96 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

DELHI, LA

ANITRAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MONROE, LA

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1960 Society Gathering On November 29, a gathering was held for the 1960 Society at Vieux Carré Market. Therese and Sammy Nagem hosted the event, which honored donors to Jesus the Good Shepherd School. The school’s annual fund goal was met through fundraising and donations, calling for celebration. Attendees toasted and enjoyed all the goodies Vieux Carré had to offer to commemorate the occasion.

On the BayouScene 1 L isa Patrick, Hillary Sirmon and Dr. K.C. Simon with Kasey and Chan Witherington 2C han Witherington, Jere and Lori Spence and Lisa Patrick 3 Lillian Paxton, Debbie and John Luffey with Sadye Richert 4A my Fakre, Therese Nagem, Susan Hopper, Michael Anne Delcambre and Jaclyn Hall 5 S ammy Nagem, Bradley Hall and Jott Delcambre 6 Dr. K.C. Sirmon and Eddie Neitz with Rebecca and Jeff Leaumont

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Vieux Carré Market Healthy Choices for 2017

NEW YEAR IS UPON US, AND VIEUX CARRÉ MARKET has everything you need to start it off right. From gourmet grocery items to healthy lunch options, they have you covered. We all deserve a little leeway during the holidays. It’s hard to pass up all those favorite classic holiday treats and meals. And why should you? Life is too short for the drudgery of diet foods and having celery sticks for lunch in your office alone. Getting back to your healthy routine doesn’t mean counting out delicious and savory food with friends and family. At Vieux Carré Market, we inspire your taste buds with natural flavors that are healthy and fun. Your body will thank you, while you enjoy our extensive variety of good-for-you choices that include salads, sandwiches and more. Stop by to check out their seafood options, prepared fresh by Chef. John Peters. From daily specials to regular menu items, seafood is his specialty. Our fresh and delicious salmon, naturally packed with healthy proteins, vitamins and minerals, is a great way to start your New Year off right. Over a bed of lettuce and topped with our Vieux Carré Market house dressing, this savory meal won’t only be satisfying, but good for you, too. Add our Ahi Tuna salad smothered in Sammy’s Grill house dressing as an option, and you’ll have a hard time deciding which naturally healthy choice to make. Is Gluten Free what you crave? At Vieux Carré Market, our collard wrapped hamburger is only the beginning. With our oneof-a-kind rice paper roll, salad trio, fish, vegetables, steak and more, we have all you need for a gluten free life. At Vieux Carré Market, we believe that life should be delicious, and shedding that holiday excess is easy when healthy eating tastes this good. Come see us and eat lunch or dinner today at Vieux Carré Market and experience flavorful, homemade food, prepared fresh for you each and every day. Lunch Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Dinner Hours: Thursday – Saturday 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

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TCBC Holly Jolly Breakfast On Saturday, December 3, the Jack Howard Theatre lobby transformed into a winter wonderland for Twin City Ballet Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holly Jolly Breakfast. Complete with Mrs. Clausâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; kitchen, elf school and more, the scene delighted the faces of hundreds of children as they enjoyed breakfast, pictures with Santa and ornament decorating and more. Little Orphan Annie, herself, along with other cast members of An Annie Christmas, were on hand for photos as guests mingled through the lobby.

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Georgia Moffett, Ashlyn Cady and Charlotte Bryant M aelyn, Bianca and Amelia Hebert P aisley, Sierra and Cooper Holloway B eth Cannon and Shelley Hamilton K aejha Stewart, Charlotte and Gretchen Jones Miranda and Lauren Moss Leanna and Layla Moffett Annie and Brandi Cole

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Plastic Surgery Is It Seasonal?

017 HAS ARRIVED! WHILE MANY ARE SAYING ‘good riddance’ to 2016, almost everyone is making plans for a healthier, happier new year. Popular resolutions include exercise, weight loss, make-overs and/or a new, fresh look. And for some, plastic surgery is part of the plan. “Many patients will come see me wanting a new look, or a change in their current look,” said Stephen Maguire, M.D., a plastic surgeon located in Alexandria, La. Since many plastic surgery procedures offer high patient satisfaction, why wouldn’t they? Some of the most popular procedures include: • Liposuction – Popular among women and men, with just a few weeks downtime required. • Tummy Tuck – A common procedure for women postpregnancy. Removal of tissue and correction of muscle separation when needed. • Breast Augmentation – Requests for “youthful” breast shape and fullness. • Neck/Face Life – Rejuvenation of the face and neck can make a huge difference. • Blepharoplasty –Removal of hooded or baggy eyelid skin. Removal of bulging fat pockets under eyes. For some surgeries – such as liposuction and tummy tucks scheduling during winter months makes sense. “With this type of surgery, our patients must wear post-surgical compression garments, which would be more uncomfortable in the heat of the spring and summer,” Maguire said. “For that reason, some patients choose to schedule liposuction during the winter.” Long holiday weekends, no matter what the season, are also a popular time for plastic surgery procedures. “As with any surgery, patients are going to need time to heal,” Dr. Maguire said. “Recovery from larger procedures takes longer than surgery from small procedures. And depending on the patients age and medical history, some heal faster than others.” If your 2017 plans include plastic surgery, keep these things in mind for the best-possible results. Find a surgeon you trust. Make sure you are getting surgery, because YOU want to, not because someone else thinks you should. And, ask questions about the procedures, process and results. “Patients who are most satisfied,” Maguire said, “are those who come into our office with realistic expectations. We are here to help them look and feel their best.“ To find out more about these plastic surgery procedures and more, call (318) 442-5800.

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ARTICLE BY APRIL CLARK HONAKER PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCARLET T GARCIA

JAKE DUGARD IS MANY THINGS: ARTIST, DESIGNER, PROFESSOR, COACH, HUSBAND AND FATHER. “MY FAVORITE THING IS DOING A LOT OF THINGS,” HE SAID. “IT KEEPS ME ON MY TOES.” To do so many things, Jake wakes up early and makes it to CrossFit Ruston by 5 a.m. to workout and jump start his day. Since starting CrossFit four years ago, Jake has made himself a morning person and has also added CrossFit coaching to his repertoire of skills. According to Jake, CrossFit has made a huge impact on his life, improving his overall health and giving him the energy to take on new responsibilities. “I’m a different person than I used to be,” Jake said. When he walks in to teach his 8 o’clock classes, Jake is pumped and ready to go. Because most of his students have just climbed out of bed, his energy and enthusiasm help wake them up and get them interested in what they’re doing. Building others up is one of Jake’s passions, and he is fulfilling his second year as an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design at Louisiana Tech University. But before taking on this role, Jake spent ten years advancing his education and building experience in his field. After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in communication design from Louisiana Tech University in 2009, Jake worked for Sarah and Brian Warren at Emogen Marketing Group in Ruston and also pursued his Master of Fine Arts, which he earned from Louisiana Tech in 2014. While in graduate school, Jake was able to complete an internship with Hatch Show Print, an iconic letterpress printing company in Nashville that has been in business since 1879. In letterpress printing, the cut type is arranged and locked in place by hand,

a process that has continued to influence Jake’s work. He said, “I enjoy the textures, type and imagery coming from old letterpress studios and early to mid-century ephemera.” Also while in graduate school, Jake and his friend Cassidy Keim opened Makers Union, which was a design studio and retail space in downtown Ruston that was dedicated to connecting people to unique, wellcrafted products and teaching creative processes. “I think it helped foster a community of makers and doers and to help put their work in front of people,” he said. The space is now in transition and will be repurposed, but Jake is still carrying on the mission of Makers Union through his work as a designer and teacher. Reflecting on the experiences that have shaped him, Jake admitted that he didn’t always know he wanted to be a designer. “Honestly, when I came to Tech,” he said, “I had no idea what I wanted to do, but I had developed an interest in art growing up.” Ironically, some of Jake’s first creative experiences involved science. As a kid, Jake and his family would visit Sci-Port in Shreveport, which is where he grew up. At Sci-Port, he said, “I was able to move, mold, smell, touch and make things. I was hooked. I needed to make more things and I did.” He found opportunities to transform school projects into conduits for his creativity and described a science project he had done that required him to collect and label leaves. Looking back on the project, he said, “I could see myself searching WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2017 103

and trying to do something a little more organized than my peers.” According to Jake, the project wasn’t great, but it was one of the first signs that he had a natural inclination for design. When it was time to decide what path he wanted to take in college, Jake was able to tour Louisiana Tech. During the tour, he was introduced to graphic design for the first time and was drawn to it. However, after studying it for a year, he felt himself pulled toward teaching as well and temporarily changed his major to education. Despite being pulled in two directions, Jake eventually returned to design and finished his degree. He attributes that decision partly to the influence of his friend Christian Dunn. At the time, they were both students, but Jake said, “Christian was one of the first people to really push me in that direction. Just watching him work really inspired me to pursue art.” Sometimes they still do projects together for fun, and Jake has discovered that choosing design didn’t mean disregarding teaching. Now, as fortune would have it, he gets to do both. Jake said he ultimately finished his degrees in design specifically because it mixed his interest in art and his interest in organizing information. “

I HAVE A PASSION FOR GRIDS, ORDER, MODERNITY AND CLEANLINESS,” HE SAID. “I ALSO JUST LOVE THE PROCESS OF CREATING SOMETHING OUT OF NOTHING. I LOVE EMPOWERING PEOPLE’S IDEAS AND HELPING THEM BECOME A REALITY.”

The practicality of design was also a factor in his decision. Although a lot of emphasis in education is now being placed on the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Jake said, “Design is engrained in every aspect of those fields. It might not be a conscious thing, but it is very much a part of everyone’s lives. The tools, devices, user interfaces, charts, data, books and machines have all been designed--good or bad.” As a result, designers like Jake will never want for work. Because Jake splits his time between designing, teaching, coaching and family, he is only open to a few freelance projects a year. He has done design work for local companies, such as CrossFit Ruston, Gibson’s Natural Grocer, Ruston Farmers Market and Kelly Moore Bag, a company that has received national recognition in Redbook, Better Homes and Gardens, Parenting and other magazines. He said, “It’s been awesome to partner with business owners who understand the importance of creativity and design. I love being able to come alongside someone and help brand their idea and give it a sense of credibility and importance. It elevates them. And these entrepreneurs are the driving force of the economy, so it’s an honor to help their efforts as I see everyone in Ruston see the

benefits of these local businesses.” Jake has been in Ruston for 11 years and has really enjoyed seeing what the arts have done for the community as a whole. “Ruston has become an awesome little town with a burgeoning arts community. And I’m not just talking about art crawls and shows, although those are incredible things. I’m talking about just the growing creativity in this town to enrich the lives of everyone. It has been incredible to watch this community mature and become a place that fosters creativity and entrepreneurship.” He believes Ruston’s growth has just begun. “Come back in 10 years,” he said, “and it will be a new city.” Ruston and its community are certainly important to Jake. In fact, one of his most popular items is actually his unofficial Ruston sweatshirt, which has the word Ruston printed on it. “Sometimes the concept is simple,” Jake said, “I wanted a shirt to rep my town, so I made one.” The design of the sweatshirt exemplifies qualities present in much of Jake’s work. “What you see is what you get,” he said. “There doesn’t always have to be some overarching, complicated concept to make something. I want it to be fun, approachable, affordable, and I want to make something people want. The older I’ve gotten, my work has become more matter-of-fact

and, ironically, more fun and playful. Ain’t nobody got time to take things too seriously.” These characteristics of Jake’s work align with much of designer Aaron Draplin’s work. Jake said Draplin has been influential partly because he’s loud, funny and entertaining, not stale and austere, and also because his work is practical and approachable. Although Jake’s designs, including his sweatshirt, are often straightforward, a lot of time and attention to detail go into them. “When I print something and put it out there,” he said, “I’ve really made an effort to balance quality and affordability. I constantly battle with pricing, but the goal is always to have the best quality for an affordable price.” In fact, it took him a month to find the perfect sweatshirt to print his design on. “And I nailed it,” he said. The shirt is super soft, durable, affordable and made in the USA. It is printed using soft water-based ink, and it’s tagless. Instead, care instructions, Jake’s name, and sizing are printed directly on the shirt. Jake said, “These little details add value and make the product special. For anyone who has bought a shirt from me, I hope that it brings a smile to their face to wear it. I hope they feel confident in wearing it.”

WHEN I HAVE OWNERSHIP OVER SOMETHING, I TRY TO FIND THE BEST WAY TO DO IT, WHETHER IT’S TEACHING, DESIGNING OR TRAINING AT CROSSFIT He hopes to have a similar impact on other customers as well. “What a customer is to me could be three different things: client, CrossFitter or student. For anyone who has bought a print or any other object from me, I hope it brings a smile to their face when they walk by that print hanging in their house, that it brings them joy or is a reminder that life is good. For anyone that I’ve coached, I hope they feel empowered, confident and excited to move.” When it comes to teaching, motivating his students is important. Jake wants them to be interested in their field and to care about what they’re producing. One of the things Jake enjoys most about being involved in so many different things is the interplay between them. For example, he feels coaching is just a natural extension of teaching. “The cool thing,” he said, “is that they’re interchangeable. Both require you to learn how to read people and figure out what they respond to.” In addition, his work as a designer and coach has carried over into what he teaches his students. “There have been times,” he said, “when I’m learning a new process or when I learn something I wish I’d known as a student, and I have the chance to share it with my students.” Jake also tries to teach his students some basic things he’s learned about life. When he was a student, Jake said he always felt strapped for time, but now as an adult with multiple jobs and a family, he’s realized that he can accomplish a lot if he uses his time efficiently. As a result, he tries to impress strong time-management skills on his students. Just as his design work and coaching carry over into his teaching; his teaching carries over into his design work. “I think it’s interesting,” he said, “to revisit some of the material I didn’t fully process when I was a student myself.” He compared this process of layering his understanding of design concepts and processes to layering a book’s meaning with each new reading. Jake 106 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

strives to evolve his understanding of what he does, because doing so translates into high-quality, distinctive work. “When I have ownership over something, I try to find the best way to do it, whether it’s teaching, designing or training at CrossFit,” he said. “I love what I do. I live a quiet life and work with my hands, but it gives me a sense of purpose, and I have been able to develop friendships with people that wouldn’t have happened if I was in another field.” When it comes to his many endeavors, Jake said, “I hope people see my passion for investing myself in whatever I do whether it’s teaching, coaching CrossFit, graphic design work, my family or whatever.”

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The “Ideal” New Year’s Solution at Professional Laser Center

BEFORE

BY JUDY WAGONER

ROFESSIONAL LASER CENTER introduced an amazing weight loss program to the state of Louisiana eight years ago, and since then, we’ve taken thousands of pounds and inches off our clients, who are loving their bodies for the first time in years. The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program promotes fat loss and enhances muscle tone. While some high protein diets, often high in saturated fats, can tax the liver and kidneys, the Ideal Protein method provides the right amount of the highest quality protein needed to protect and improve muscle mass and vital organs. The Ideal Protein Method is a medically designed protocol, developed in France nearly 30 years ago by Dr. Tran Tien Chanh, MD, PhD, who focused his career and research on nutrition, with an emphasis

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on the treatment of obesity. It’s a 4 phase protocol, which helps stabilize the pancreas and blood sugar levels, while burning fat and maintaining muscle and other lean tissue. It’s also an excellent treatment for cellulite reduction. The FDA-approved products are only available through trained and certified coaches. Our Ideal Protein experts, the most experienced in the state, will guide you every step of the way and hold you accountable. The main principle behind the protocol is to learn to live off the body’s fat reserves. The body employs energy from three reserves: carbohydrates, fat and protein. First, from it’s carbohydrate reserves. After depleted, it turns to protein and fat reserves for energy. Simple and complex carbohydrates can prevent weight loss. The body stores about three days worth of carbohydrates. The Ideal Weight Loss program has a

AFTER

beginning and an end. Until 100% of the weight loss goal is achieved, sugars are restricted. As long as sugar is consumed, the body is not burning fat. It’s as simple as that. The centerpiece of the protocol is gourmet, protein-based foods, which the dieter consumes during the program. These are high, biological value proteins. They’re delicious, practical and satisfying and are available in many flavors and textures. The best part of the program: There’s no guess work. So, what are you waiting for? The New Year has begun, and now is the perfect time to set a goal. Call Professional Laser Center today, and let us help you transform your body. We’ll show you how to get the weight off, and most importantly, how to keep it off. You won’t believe how easy it is. Happy New Year!

MedCamps of Louisiana Receives Donation

Monroe City Battle of the Badges Presents Check Totaling $28,000 On Thursday, December 15, 2016, organizers of the Monroe City Battle of the Badges presented MedCamps of Louisiana with a check totaling $28,000, the proceeds of the 2016 Battle of the Badges event presented by Sparks Nissan. Monroe City Battle of the Badges is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to raise money for selected charities by hosting an annual amateur boxing event that features police officers versus fire firefighters. These fighters travel from all across the south to participate. This year’s event was held on August 13th at Fant-Ewing Coliseum on the campus of the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Over 6,000 people attended the event and were entertained by 32 fighters from 5 states, but the big draw this year was former law enforcement officer turned Youtube sensation and now U.S. Congressman–Elect, Clay Higgins. “We were excited to host Lt. Higgins,” said event organizer and West

Monroe Police Officer Dennis Wall. “He added an extra draw to this year’s event that made it our biggest and best yet! I am just so proud to be a part of our community and so proud that we could help such a worthy cause.” Since Battle of the Badges began in 2005, the event has given $330,000 away to local charities. “The men and women of Battle of the Badges have not just been significant donors to MedCamps of Louisiana,” says Caleb Seney, Executive Director, “They have become part of our camp family.” Each summer Battle of the Badges organizes a Public Safety Day (or two) where public safety officers from various branches come out to the camp and teach the campers about safety and demonstrate

the vital role they play in keeping our communities safe. “I love it! It’s my favorite part of the summer,” says J.R. “The Lion” Moore, event organizer, boxer and Monroe City Firefighter. “I mean, I love making these campers smile, and they motivate me to give 100% in training, in the ring, on the job and in my life. I am proud of what Battle of the Badges does for our community and proud to be a part of it.” MedCamps of Louisiana is a local non-profit organization that provides residential summer camping experiences free of charge to children living with various chronic illnesses and disabilities. For more information about MedCamps of Louisiana, visit www.medcamps.org.

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JLM Now Taking Applications Historic Volunteer Organization Seeking Members for 2017-2018 Provisional Class

HE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF MONROE IS AN organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. Since 1930, members of the Junior League of Monroe have devoted countless volunteer hours to meet the needs of the people and organizations of our community. Community leaders have always looked to the JLM for leadership in starting new community programs. As a result, the JLM has often been the catalyst that turned an idea into a success that benefited many in our area. The Junior League is now taking applications for the 20172018 Provisional Class. The opportunity to apply for membership is November-March of each year. There will be a League Fair this month, which the JLM invites you to attend and learn more about what the Junior League of Monroe is all about. There will also be information about Provisional requirements at this event. In order to be considered to the Junior League of Monroe, a candidate must: • Be 23 years of age by March 23. • Possess an interest in voluntarism. • Possess a commitment to community service. Steps to Joining: • Download and complete the Admissions Form on the JLM website jlmonroe.com/how-to-join/. These are due in March of this year. • Secure two sponsors. These can be Active and/or Sustaining Members. (If you need assistance with this, please request on your Admissions Form.) • Attend the League Fair. This is not a requirement (unless you will need help securing sponsors for your application). We strongly encourage your attendance in order to learn more about the League, Provisional requirements and membership benefits. You may send completed forms via one of the listed ways: • Scan and email to jrleague@centurytel.net • Fax to 318-322-3299 • Mail or hand deliver: 2811 Cameron Street, Monroe, LA 71201 JLM will contact each candidate by letter to confirm that she meets the eligibility requirements and is invited to join the organization by the beginning of April. If you have any other questions, please email Admissions Chair, Katherine Flowers at klsartor@gmail.com.

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Bank of Ruston Holiday Art Show The Bank of Ruston’s Holiday Art Show, held at the institution’s main branch in downtown Ruston, is one not to be missed. This year’s party was a wonderful time to catch up with friends, enjoy delicious food and see some spectacular work by local amateur and professional photographers.

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Charles and Sandra Hart and Dean Dablow C assidy, Kourtney and Calhoun Keim S tate Representative Rob Shadoin and Steve Brennan A ngie Biscomb, Martha Sue and Tom Sumrall S herri Burt, Annie Richardson, Kourtney Keim Joey and Jessica Slaughter Sherry Owens, Jessie Bryan and Misty Womack Bill and Kelly Hogan

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I REMEMBER article by PAUL LIPE

REMEMBER

that beautiful spring day in 2012, when we sat in the stands at the SMU Lowdon Track and Field Complex in Dallas, Texas. We were there, not to watch an SMU Mustang event, but to witness the first-ever track meet that our grandson, Jon Paul Lipe, participated in as a member of the track team from Providence Christian School of Dallas. This was big-time for our 10-year old fourth grader – running against students from all over Dallas, on the university track with all its electronic gadgets, and in front of a large number of spectators who were watching his every move (or so it seemed to him). Jon Paul was as tight as a newly-tuned banjo! His anxiety is understandable, when one considers his roots. This young lad’s dad grew up in the small town of Delhi, and his mother hails from a tiny hamlet which is

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located north of Rayville and has far fewer inhabitants than does Delhi. This Dallas event was indeed “tall cotton” for this young fellow! “Big D” never seemed bigger! The first race in which he competed was a preliminary for the 100 meter dash. A slow exit from the starting blocks resulted in a fourth-place finish in his heat. But finishing fourth was not the worst part – Jon Paul was so tense that he was close to hyperventilating. Anxiously, we observed as his coach walked with him in the infield, holding JP’s hands high above his head to facilitate his struggle to breathe. We were afraid that he would not be able to participate in the rest of the meet, but then came some encouraging news. Jon Paul had run in a fast heat, and the first four places in that heat qualified for the finals. This did much in helping our grandson gain some composure and the confidence that he could

measure up against this Dallas competition. Later in the day, when the finals in the 100 meter were run, Jon Paul finished third but only a step behind the winner. However, in the 200 meter dash, which was JP’s best event, he smoked the field to claim the first place ribbon. He had fought and overcome his fear, and the results were very gratifying – both to him and to his proud parents and grandparents. There is an important lesson to be learned from this event in the life of my grandson. When confronted by an opportunity or challenge that appears so daunting, we can benefit if we give our best effort and tackle the problem head-on. But when we run away from the challenge, or when we give only a half-hearted effort, it is likely to be costly and unproductive. This truth is plainly seen in the life of Moses. He had been amply equipped and

prepared for the role of leading the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage, but when God called him to undertake that task, Moses was reluctant to “run the race.” He gave excuses and did all he could to escape from this challenge. His arguments to God were that he was not the man for such a great responsibility, that the people would not

listen to him or believe him, and that he was not eloquent enough to be effective in such a major mission. Moses resisted, because he felt inadequate and he was afraid of failure. But the Lord persisted in His recruitment of Moses, and Moses finally relented and agreed to take the job. The results are an important part of the history

of the world, because Moses is recognized as one of the most important figures in the story of mankind. The Ten Commandments which God gave to this servant have been so significant in shaping Western civilization and culture. One is filled with gratitude when he considers what our lives might have been like had Moses refused “to run the race set before him.” But Moses did run, and we are the benefactors of his effort. Jon Paul continues to run track and to participate in other sports, and he is maturing in the process. How different things might have been had he succumbed to his anxiety that day at the Lowdon Track and Field Complex. Thankfully, he faced his fears and met the challenge, and he is a better person for it all. So when hurdles seem to block our paths, causing us fear and apprehension, may we find strength and encouragement from our Lord, just as JP and Moses did, and may we all run our races by faithfully giving our best effort – all the way to the finish line.

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RESOLUTIONS FOR AN ORGANIZED NEW YEAR by Erin Sharplin Love erinlove@panachebyerin.com

ith each new year comes a fresh start and a chance to make ourselves a bit better than we were the year before. What will you do to make yourself better in 2017? Commit to exercising every day? Go vegetarian one day a week? Commit to a personal growth schedule? How about getting organized? It just so happens that “getting organized” is one of the top resolutions made every year! Taking the time to get control of your life results in huge benefits- like reducing stress and saving money and time – yet few ever completely follow through with it! If you are thinking of making organizing a priority in 2017, let me keep you from becoming a statistic. I have created a list of resolutions that you can make today to keep you organized all year long – and for the years to come! RESOLUTION #1: ONE IN, ONE OUT This is the perfect place to start, given the fact that Christmas just passed and your home is probably filled with toys and extra clutter that has not found a home yet. As you put each present away, commit to donating or tossing an item of similar or exact nature. Sometimes you must get rid of the old to make room for the new. RESOLUTION #2: USE IT, REPLACE IT Simply put, if you use an item, put it back where it goes immediately after use. If you begin implementing this resolution immediately, I can guarantee that it will become a habit quickly and will limit the clutter in your home. If you have young children and husbands (sorry guys, but you are lacking in this category), it may take a bit longer for 114 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

this resolution to become a habit. Yet, there is hope if you lead by example with this resolution and help each family member see that if an item is replaced, it can easily be found again. RESOLUTION #3: SEASONAL EDITS Commit to combing through your clothing, shoes, and accessories at the beginning of each new season. As I said in the first resolution, you must get rid of the old to make room for the new. During these editing sessions, take note of what you wore most often and what you wore the least. Do you need to update anything? Are you happy with the direction your personal style is going? If not, this is the perfect time for a refresh! RESOLUTION #4 – SHOP WITH A PLAN AND A PURPOSE Avoid buying unneeded items which will eventually lead to clutter by always going shopping with a plan and a purpose. Impulse buying is hard to avoid unless you are prepared and focused, so before doing any kind of shopping (grocery, clothing, etc.), make a list of the items you need and promise yourself that you will not vary from the list for any reason. RESOLUTION #5: LOVE IT OR LOSE IT Never let guilt keep you from donating or tossing an item that you don’t love. As a professional organizer, I frequently have clients who say “but Aunt Rita gave it to me and I hate to get rid of it.” In my opinion, Aunt Rita wouldn’t want you to keep something that isn’t loved and isn’t being used. Pass it on to someone who will love it and use it! RESOLUTION #6: STREAMLINE EVERYDAY TASKS You know how they say that “cleanliness is akin to Godliness?” Well, I think that preparation is akin to Godliness! Being prepared saves time and stress! I suggest

creating “stations” for everything from the simplest of things, like coffee and tea items, to the more important things, like first aid and medicine or stain-removal items. You can even go so far as to create an emergency preparedness area in case disaster strikes. For instance, consider what you might have needed during the recent flooding in our area. RESOLUTION #7: TAKE ACTION IMMEDIATELY When you have an item, such as mail in your hand, you have a choice – will you idly set it down anywhere, or will you take action and immediately place it in a pre-determined location? If you choose the latter, I can guarantee that you will soon see less clutter in your surroundings and, thus, you will feel more relaxed and in control of your life and surroundings. This resolution doesn’t apply to only mail. You should follow this procedure with EVERYTHING you touch throughout the day. If you can take immediate action, do it. Take a few seconds or minutes now to save you a few hours or days later! RESOLUTION #8: WRITE IT DOWN Finally, I suggest keeping a notebook or journal with you to jot down “to-do” lists, shopping lists, ideas, etc. It’s best to use one notebook at a time so you won’t get overwhelmed and confused, thus thwarting your efforts and rendering this resolution useless. I also suggest dividing the notebook into sections based on what you will be jotting down. You could even purchase a three to five-subject notebook if you enjoy perfectly divided sections. Be sure to label each section, and keep it with you at all times. You never know when an idea will pop into your head! So…what is your New Year resolution? I hope it involves your incorporating one, or all, of my tips above! Please feel free to keep me up-to-date on your progress!

Looking for a Gym Home?

Join the Wellness Center Family Today!

E’VE BEEN HERE IN THE HEART OF WEST Monroe since 1990, where our mission is always in helping to achieve our community’s health and fitness goals with the best staff, trainers and instructors around. We have everything you’ll need to stay on track with your training. We’ll keep the kiddos safe and busy, while you enjoy your workout or relax in the pool and hot tub. At the Wellness Center, you and your family are our priorities around the clock! We have a range of classes to choose from. Some of the group classes that we offer: • Yoga • Aqua • Spin • Body combat • Cardio Crunch • Zumba • Step The Wellness Center is a 25,000 sq. ft. building that caters to everyone, complete with prepared nutrition and smoothie bar.

We have a functional training circuit room, a ladies only workout room, an indoor heated pool, an outdoor track and locker rooms. We also provide massage therapy and seasonal fitness events. On top of supplying child care, the Wellness Center offers IronKids fitness classes, seasonal KidsFit camps and swim lessons. We have tons of weightlifting and cardio equipment including: • Battle Ropes • TRX • Kettle Bells • DynaMax Med Balls • Water Rowers • and More! Call us at 318.329.9100 or go by our website at wmwellnesscenter.com! For the month of January, we are offering no sign-up fees. Please feel free to ask about our membership combo for the Wellness Center and CrossFit Iron Pelican. Make us your Gym Home for 2017! Happy New Year!

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BAYOUHEALTH

ALMOST EVERYONE has,

intolerance is the most common food intolerance, causing at least once, experienced problems for people whose an unpleasant reaction to bodies are unable to process something they ate. For many the lactose found in milk and people, this is a recurring other dairy products. Lactose problem. For a few, eating just is a sugar, and as Amanda one bite of the wrong food may Wood, Registered Dietitian result in serious, sometimes Nutritionist with Affinity life-threatening illness. It is Health Group, explains “It is estimated that over 15 million this sugar, called lactose, in milk people in the United States suffer that causes a digestive problem in from food allergies, and an even people with lactose intolerance. This greater number have an intolerance is different from a milk allergy, which is or sensitivity to certain foods. an immune response to casein, a protein According to Food Allergy Research found in milk.” & Education (FARE), a national organization Digestive issues symptomatic of lactose dedicated to food allergy research, advocacy intolerance occur in people whose body lacks and awareness, food allergy symptoms send the enzyme necessary to digest the lactose in someone in the U.S. to the emergency room milk and other dairy products. To prevent or every three minutes. An allergic reaction to eliminate these symptoms, patients must be food can affect the skin, respiratory system, careful to avoid all foods, such as milk, that gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular containing lactose. Other common intolerances system. Like food allergies, food sensitivities include chemical ingredients added to food, and intolerances can also cause a plethora of food dyes and monosodium glutamate, or MSG. health problems, including gastrointestinal Wood, along with other Registered upset, headaches, pain and fatigue. Dietician Nutritionists at Affinity Health In recent years, terms such as “glutenManagement Center in Monroe, consult free” and “lactose intolerance” have become with patients living with food allergies and buzzwords that are frequently used but often intolerances. Nutritionists can help patients misunderstood. While some may regard pinpoint the source of their sensitivity if not restrictive diets eliminating gluten or lactose already diagnosed and, for patients already as part of a trend or fad, most people following diagnosed by a physician, can provide these diets are actually doing so to avoid being information, resources and diet and meal sick. planning for avoiding the offending food. A food allergy is an immune system “We work very closely with the primary care response to a particular food. The body’s physicians,” says Wood. immune system, whose function is to identify In recent years, Wood has seen an increase and destroy harmful bacteria and viruses, may in patients who suffer from celiac disease and mistakenly attack a harmless food protein, problems related to gluten. “It is not anything producing large amounts of antibodies to fight new,” says Wood, but she notes that there is an the food allergen. When this occurs, histamines article by Kay Rector increased awareness, due in part to the Internet are released, which trigger the symptoms of an and social media, along with an increased allergic reaction. There are eight major food availability of gluten-free food choices. allergies: shellfish, fish, milk, eggs, tree nuts, A growing number of people are eliminating gluten from their peanuts, wheat and soy. According to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, symptoms of a diets. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Foods that food allergy include skin rashes or hives, itching, shortness of breath contain gluten are problematic for millions of people, causing severe swelling of the airways to the lungs, shortness of breath, nausea and symptoms in those suffering from celiac disease as well as people stomach cramps. In the most severe allergic reactions, anaphylaxis with non-celiac gluten sensitivity and gluten intolerance. As Dr. Gary Jones, Board Certified Family Physician and CEO of can occur, marked by life-threatening symptoms, including a sudden drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness and body system failure. Vantage Health Plan, explains, “Humans have a little more trouble A food intolerance is a digestive system response, which occurs digesting grains, in general, than we do fruits and vegetables and when the body is unable to properly digest a particular food or other foods. Wheat in particular is something a lot of people have when something in the food irritates the digestive system. Lactose trouble digesting, and it is the protein in wheat, called gluten, that

BE CAREFUL

WHAT YOU

EAT Navigating the Minefield of Food Allergies, Gluten Sensitivity and Celiac Disease

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causes the problem. When we eat gluten, it causes inflammation in the small intestine. Over a period of years, this chronic inflammation in the small intestine leads to autoimmune diseases, such as celiac disease.” When the small intestine is compromised, food proteins are able to cross over the intestinal membrane into the bloodstream. “These little chunks of protein cause the body to react to them like it would a bacteria or something that is not supposed to be there,” Jones explains. When a person with celiac disease eats food containing gluten, their immune system responds to the gluten as a foreign body and attacks, causing damage to the villi that line the inside of the intestine. The damaged villi become unable to properly absorb nutrients from the food that passes through the intestine.

Jones said that he personally suffered with celiac symptoms for about ten years before being finally being diagnosed. He uses his case as an example of the difficulties in diagnosis. “I’m a doctor,” says Jones, “I work with doctors and am around doctors all the time. I had been evaluated by different doctors over the years. I knew something was wrong with me, and I had actually excluded all of the common allergens. At times I would seem to get a little better when I would exclude certain allergens, but I had never excluded gluten.” Jones says that one day his wife was watching a television show featuring Elizabeth Hasselbeck. She called him over to watch as Hasselbeck was describing exactly what Jones had been going through. Hasselbeck has celiac disease, and wrote a book entitled “The G-Free Diet” which she was promoting on the show. As Hasselbeck described her symptoms and her life with celiac disease,

“ When a person with celiac disease eats food

containing gluten, their immune system responds to the gluten as a foreign body and attacks...” – Dr. Gary Jones It is common for patients to experience health problems and a variety of symptoms over a long period of time before being diagnosed with celiac disease. In addition to digestive problems, patients may suffer from fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, and sinus pain and congestion. Skin disorders are relatively common in patients with celiac disease, particularly dermatitis herpetiformis, an itching, blistering rash found mainly on the elbows, forearms, knees, and scalp. Brain and nervous system disorders can also develop, producing migraine-like headaches and a loss of strength or balance. Unfortunately, Jones is intimately familiar with celiac disease and the myriad of symptoms that it can cause. Six years ago, Jones was diagnosed with celiac disease. He says that for thirty years he suffered from recurring sinus infections and complexion problems. He developed other symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, and was finally diagnosed and began eliminating gluten from his diet. “Once I got off gluten,” Jones says, “my complexion cleared up and my sinuses cleared up.” Jones notes that many people who follow a gluten-free diet following celiac diagnosis experience resolution seemingly unrelated chronic symptoms. Sacroiliitis, which is back pain due to arthritis in the sacroiliac joint, is one example of this. Exposure to gluten may also cause health problems in people who are not predisposed to and never develop celiac disease. Nonceliac gluten sensitivity affects an estimated six percent of the population, approximately 18 million Americans. While it is not an autoimmune disease, gluten sensitivity and intolerance results in a short-term immune response to gluten, with symptoms that mirror those of celiac disease but without the long-term damage to the small intestine. Because the immune response to gluten can affect multiple systems in the body, causing a wide array of symptoms that vary from patient to patient, diagnosis of celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity is difficult. Jones notes that only one out of nine people with celiac disease are currently diagnosed. A lot of people may be misdiagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome or diverticulitis.

Jones realized, listening to her, that gluten was the one thing he had not yet eliminated from his diet. He says he immediately started reading about celiac disease and stopped eating foods containing gluten. “Within two weeks, I felt like Superman,” Jones says. “I felt better than I had in ten years.” Jones says that before he was diagnosed, he was tired and felt sick all the time. He suffered from unexplained intestinal symptoms as well as a severe lack of energy. “I would get up in the morning and eat a boiled egg and have a cup of black coffee and feel pretty good. But after I would eat lunch, I was worthless for the rest of the day. I would be exhausted,” he says. Jones had this chronic fatigue for eight to ten years. It affected his ability to work, and he eventually stopped seeing patients in the medical clinic hours. He focused solely on his administrative role at Vantage Health Plan, because he did not have the energy or feel well enough to do both. He knew that something was terribly wrong with his health and worried that he might have leukemia.

ones eventually underwent medical testing which confirmed his diagnosis of celiac disease. Testing for celiac disease involves blood tests to detect antibodies present in those with the disease, as well as an intestinal biopsy. Tissue samples are obtained from the small intestine and examined for damage to the intestinal lining. Jones cautions that if intestinal symptoms are present and celiac disease is suspected, it is important to be tested before eliminating gluten from the diet. Once a patient is gluten-free for a significant amount of time, the test results may be negative although the celiac disease exists. Genetic testing is performed to determine a person’s predisposition for celiac disease, which is hereditary. As with many immune disorders, the combination of genetic predisposition and an environmental trigger—gluten--result in illness and damage to the bodies of celiac patients. “When a child is diagnosed with celiac disease, it is common practice to test their siblings, because it is WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2017 117

inherited,” Jones says. “Thirty percent of the population is genetically predisposed to celiac disease. Siblings will often test positive for the disease, even though they do not have any symptoms. Other times, siblings will test negative, but will have symptoms. When you follow those patients, a large percent of them will develop celiac disease over time. It is a common belief today that the more wheat you eat, and the longer you eat it, the more likely you are to develop problems related to gluten.” The only effective treatment for celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity is to eliminate gluten from the diet. This can be difficult, as gluten is extremely prevalent, not only in foods like bread and cereal and pasta, but also in unexpected products, such as spices and salad dressings and even ice cream. Wheat flour is used as a filler in a multitude of food products. For celiac patients like Jones, and those with extreme sensitivity to gluten, even trace amounts of the gluten protein can cause severe illness. To avoid becoming ill, it is important to be diligent and always read labels.

sinus and nasal symptoms usually follow within a couple of days. People with non-celiac gluten sensitivity may have less dramatic or severe reactions than celiac patients when exposed to gluten, but the elimination of unpleasant symptoms is worth going “gluten free.” Like Jones, Monroe resident Jo Ann Deal was feeling unusually lethargic and worried that something was wrong with her. Deal, who serves as manager of the Northeast Louisiana Better Business Bureau, was often tired and experiencing frequent headaches when she visited the Affinity Health Management Center and met with a Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Amanda Wood. She knew she was not eating as well as she should, but could not pinpoint the cause of her fatigue and headaches. Wood suggested that Deal eliminate gluten from her diet for six weeks and see if any of her problems resolved. Deal says that the difference in her overall health was dramatic, so much so that she has committed to permanently eliminating gluten. “I just feel so much better,” she says. “My energy level has

“My energy level has increased. I have less pain in my joints and fewer headaches. My husband and I have both benefited from reducing the amount of gluten in our diets.” – Jo Ann Deal “I am very sensitive,” Jones says. “I get sick at about twenty parts per million, which is equivalent to just a few grains of salt sprinkled over an entire plate of food. That’s all it takes. Once you get off of gluten completely, and then you go back and eat any of it, you may find that you are even more sensitive to it.” Jones says that he can tell within a few hours that he has been “glutenized,” the term he uses for inadvertently ingesting the gluten protein. “It takes me a good week or two to get completely over it,” Jones says of accidentally eating gluten. He says that intestinal symptoms come on within a few hours of exposure to gluten, and 118 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

increased. I have less pain in my joints and fewer headaches. My husband and I have both benefited from reducing the amount of gluten in our diets.” Deal says that she is more mentally alert and less likely to suffer what she refers to as “beige days,” times when she feels less clear-headed and not as alert. “If you are otherwise healthy, but you have a chronic condition and doctors have not been able to tell you exactly what is causing it, and if your symptoms seem to wax and wane, sometimes better and sometimes worse, then my advice,” says Jones, “is to get off gluten for six weeks and see if you feel better.” It is important to talk to a

nutritionist or to someone who is familiar with and follows a glutenfree diet. Jones recommends the “Mayo Clinic Guide to Eating Gluten-Free” as a credible reference for basic information about gluten related disorders and tips for adhering to a gluten-free diet. Another excellent resource is Hasselbeck’s book, “The G-Free Diet: A GlutenFree Survival Guide.” Beyond Celiac, a non-profit organization, maintains a website—www.beyondceliac.org--with a wealth of information about gluten-sensitivity and celiac disease.

ngie O’Pry Blades, owner of Fiesta Nutrition Center in Monroe, carries a broad range of products for people who cannot eat gluten, as well as for those living with lactose intolerance and food allergies. Blades stresses that for these individuals, truthful and accurate labeling and certifications are extremely important. “When a person is diagnosed with a food allergy or sensitivity, it can be overwhelming. And, unfortunately, you can get lost in the ‘rabbit hole’ of information online. When you can come to a place and have someone help you read the labels and point out favorites, that really helps,” says Blades. “We try things and open packages and do demos in the store for customers to try for the first time.” Blades is knowledgeable about the various certifications and understands that even trace amounts of gluten or other allergens can cause problems for some customers. Approximately 70% of Fiesta’s inventory is gluten-free, including vitamins and supplements. Blades stocks products from companies whose processing and labeling protects people with nut allergies and intolerances to food dyes and artificial ingredients. As Registered Dietitian Nutritionists, Wood and other nutritionists with Affinity Health Group have completed special training to be able to certify restaurants, through a national certification process in conjunction with Beyond Celiac, to provide gluten-free menu. In order to receive the certification, owners and staff must go through rigorous training regarding issues such as avoiding cross-contact between gluten-free foods and other foods or surfaces that may be laced with traces of gluten. For His Temple Restaurant and Catering Service in West Monroe and the West Monroe Convention Center’s Food Services have completed this certification process and offer gluten free menus. Other local food businesses not yet certified but offering gluten-free meals and food products are Chef Eric Johnson & Company in West Monroe and Butter Bakery, owned by Charity Jones. National restaurant chains, such as Applebee’s and Outback Steakhouse, have their own certification processes. As Deal, who is relatively new to the gluten-free diet, notes, “you have more choices than you realize. Our local grocers and restaurants do a really good job of offering gluten-free options.” Living with food allergies or with a disease, food sensitivity or intolerance that requires adherence to a restrictive diet can be frustrating. Dining out, dinner parties and other social activities centered around food are an integral part of our southern culture. Friends, acquaintances and even family members can become annoyed or unsympathetic, especially when dietary restrictions make cooking and socializing more difficult. As with most challenges in life, however, the effort and restraint in avoiding problematic foods is worth the resulting freedom from illness.

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GRIEF

Meredith’s Musings I Hope I’m Not Ready |

By Meredith McKinnie

few days before Christmas, I attended a funeral. My good friend’s father had died suddenly, and I was heartbroken for my friend. He wasn’t ready. We rarely are, and though he put on a brave face, the flood of emotion was waiting to trickle down his face the moment his responsibilities subsided, once the audience was gone. He’s always there for other people, and the amount of love and presence for his dad surprised him. We are always surprised when people show up, and they did, in droves. The moment for me came shortly after Boyfriend and I had taken our seats on the pew among people we didn’t know to pay respect to a man we’d never met. I looked down at the program and saw the man was 66…he was only 66. In my twenties, 66 seemed old, but not anymore. The closer I 120 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

creep to it, the younger it seems. And sitting during that service hearing about the life of a father, I couldn’t help but think of my own. My dad is 68. He’s two years older than this man we were here to bury, and I realized I wasn’t anymore ready than my friend was, hadn’t even pondered the mortality of my parents. They had always been there, and I couldn’t fathom my world if they weren’t. But the reality is, short of something happening to me, some day they will not be there. I hope I’m not ready. When Mamaw died, we were all ready, ready for her to no longer suffer. I don’t want that for my parents. I hope they, and I, are taken by surprise. Waiting for death is so agonizing, tiresome, and then you feel guilty for feeling tired, as if you don’t deserve to. It’s someone else’s ending; the least you can do is endure it. But you still feel tired, and even guiltier when the news sends a sense of peace,

because not only their suffering is over, but so is yours. Ironically, a few months ago my mother mentioned a class she was attending about outlining her estate. I listened, but it didn’t hit home. It didn’t rattle me that what she was saying would only take affect once she was gone. It should have, but it didn’t. But at a funeral of a man like my father, a man younger than my father, who left behind a child, an adult child like me, it finally did. When did I become an adult? When did my parents get older? Dad has a twitch in his knee that sometimes causes him to walk with a slight limp, but he’s still my dad. I don’t see him as old. I still think if he and Mom lined up in the street and raced, like they did once when we were kids, that he would still surprise us all and beat her. But he wouldn’t, not anymore. My mom always complains of the discolored skin and one finger that has started to take a shape of its own. It drives her crazy. We chuckle when she holds it up, not registering the physical reminders of what is happening in front of our eyes. It’s easier to not talk about it, or acknowledge it, or worse, ponder what it would mean for us. I don’t want to smother my parents, because their mortality is on my mind. I don’t want to dwell on what could happen because of a number and not soak up the moments unclouded by the idea of them one day ending. It’s just one of life’s ironic reminders that our days are numbered. Witnessing my friend come to terms with never seeing his father again is what it takes to appreciate mine. It seems unfair, as if he must suffer, so I can be reminded to pay more attention. And I will. I will take this heartbreaking reminder to look them in face, to give them my undivided, to practice patience and love and understanding. It’s what I should always do with the people, who have given so much to me, but I will try even harder. I will try for them, for me, and especially for my friend, who will never again have the chance.

Wellspring Holiday Open House On Thursday, December 8th The Wellspring Alliance for Families hosted their Annual Holiday Open House for friends and family. The event was from 11 a.m. until one in the afternoon. A large selection of food and drinks were served to everyone in attendance. Tours were given of the beautiful, historic home were that has been converted into the foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration building at 1515 Jackson Street in Monroe. Guests were invited to meet the staff and learn a little bit more of what Wellspring is all about. The Wellspring Alliance for Families would like to thank everyone that attende

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On the BayouScene 1 Caroline Cascio and Bob Collier 2 Donna George and Abby Hays 3C hristy Gwin and Rick Guillot 4C assy Futch, Courtney Kinman and Bonnie Hampton 5K risten Lairmore, Rachel Niblett and Teresa Shumate 6 Kattina Trosclair and Cindy Roach 7 Jeslyn Lewis and Lena Victorian 8R obyn and Jimi Johnson 9 Rodney and Caroline Cascio 10 S haron Jones and Jessica Barber

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BAYOUEATS River Grilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new owners Jeff Jarrell and John Hopper, Jr. revamp this neighborhood gem with a delectable menu, superb atmosphere and superior service.

River Grille

ARTICLE BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2017 123

eff Jarrell and John Hopper Jr. will be the new owners of River Grille in Monroe beginning January 1st of 2017. The partners have been in the restaurant business for the last seventeen years. Friends since college, Jeff met John while working in John’s dad’s restaurant, Rio Café, where John was the manager. There they joked about one day going into business together. After a brief stint doing construction work after college, Jeff returned to Monroe and teamed up with John in the restaurant industry. Together they opened Gravy’s in 1998, a lunch place in West Monroe. They co-founded Crawfish City in 2002, and only sold the business a few months ago. They also own Daq’s in Monroe and in Bossier, with a third location opening in Shreveport in the spring of 2017. They have the experience in business, the passion to please customers and the knowledge of what makes a restaurant succeed. While all the menu staples will remain, only improved versions, the emphasis is on fine beef. Having replaced all the equipment in the restaurant, their most notable addition is a top quality steak broiler that cooks at 1600 degrees. The sear on the meat and the high temperature cooking are essential to the superior flavor. The cut options are: six or ten ounce filet, fourteen ounce New York strip, sixteen ounce ribeye, twenty-four ounce bone-in ribeye, and two pound Porter House. The fine beef is right at prime level, the highest quality beefs. The flavor is phenomenal and gives customers “an excellent product at a reasonable price.” The lunch menu will feature two country specials each weekday. Mondays offer fried chicken or smothered pork chops. Tuesdays bring hamburger steak or chicken and dumplings. Wednesdays

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serve up beef tips or thin fried pork chops. Thursday’s offerings are meatloaf or smothered chicken. And Friday’s specials are chicken fried chicken or hamburger steak. All plate lunches come with rice or mashed potatoes and gravy, two more sides, bread and tea. Customers can also order from the daily lunch choices of cheeseburgers handmade with 80/20 Angus beef, po-boys with roast beef, sliced and roasted in house, or turkey, also smoked and sliced in house. The catfish is available grilled, fried or blackened. The corned beef sandwich is River Grille’s take on the Reuben, featuring Swiss cheese, cole slaw, and Thousand Island dressing on a Ciabatta roll. Grilled chicken breasts and grilled chicken salads are on the lunch menu, as is red beans and rice. The side dishes on hand are mashed potatoes and gravy, fried okra, macaroni and cheese, buttered corn, cole slaw, rice and gravy, lima beans, green beans and turnip greens, all country staples to top off one’s soul food lunch plate. The appetizers on the dinner menu cover all food preferences with the staple of southern flair. The traditional hushpuppies, along with homemade, hand-cut mozzarella cheese fries and onion rings marinated in hot sauce are available as appetizers. For even more mix of flavor, the Parmesan truffle fries are a favorite, cut from russet potatoes, drizzled with truffle oil, topped with Parmesan cheese and served with a Cajun-seasoned dipping sauce. The fried eggplant are diced into one-inch cubes and topped with Parmesan and a thick lemon aioli sauce. The fried green tomatoes are smothered in colossal lump crabmeat and Cajun-seasoned cream sauce. The crab claws are marinated in olive oil, green onions and Italian seasonings. For the shrimp lovers, they come battered, fried or sautéed in garlic, rosemary, olive oil and are served with French toast points. The seafood gumbo is overflowing with crab and Gulf shrimp. If seafood is not your choice, but gumbo is, try the chicken and

Andouille sausage version. Both gumbos come topped with fried okra. The soups will be rotating seasonally, but the current flavor is French onion. Some lighter options come in the form of salads. The River Grille Salad contains mixed greens with Creole mustard dressing. The Italian Salad is made up of mixed greens, olives and Italian dressing. Caesar salad and grilled chicken salad also round out the menu with all dressings hand made with fresh ingredients. The cheeseburgers, po-boys and corned beef sandwiches are also available in the evenings, along with grilled chicken breasts and a one and a half inch bone-in pork chop that is started on the grill and finished on the broiler for that nice, juicy taste. The catfish and shrimp are available in a variety of options, along with fresh Gulf red fish, served in lemon butter, and topped with colossal lump crabmeat, red pepper and green onions. The Cajun pasta comes with your choice of chicken and Andouille or shrimp. Regardless of your craving, River Grille has your palate covered. Putting a lot of effort into the bar offerings is General Manager, Brad Castle. A native of Monroe, Brad has been in the service industry for the last twenty-three years. Having just kind of landed in the restaurant business, Brad claims it “gets in your blood.” He’s a foodie, a cook, a fan of a good cocktail, and a wine and craft beer enthusiast. Brad is the creator of the unique cocktail offerings at River Grille. The Cosmo Blanc is made with Absolut Citron Vodka, white cranberry juice and St. Germaine Elderflower liqueur. The River Grille Tea is a peach bourbon tea with white peach puree, muddled thyme, lemon juice and simple syrup, a great “patio sipper.” The Moscow Mule is made with gin instead of vodka, lime juice, simple mint syrup, Gosling ginger beer and has a “spicy ginger kick.” The Green Beast is a mix of Absinthe, gin, cucumber, club soda, mint and lime juice. With many longtime favorites on tap, the bar is also

serving up beer from local breweries, Great Raft, Flying Tiger, Abita and Ouachita Brewing Company. Higher end drinks, pint favorites, house drinks and quality wines will be served, and, if your favorite wine is not at the bar, Jeff and John will do their best to accomodate. The cocktail menu will evolve, as Brad likes to come up with his own drink recipes. Lunch will be served on Saturdays and Sundays with TVs inside and on the heated deck for sports enthusiasts. River Grille is a familyfriendly atmosphere with a jumper out front for the kids. The bar has been expanded with high-top tables that seat four comfortably with a good view of the game and a partition separating the bar and main dining area. Come casual or fancy, as Jeff and John are seeking to establish more regulars and repeat business. Being in the middle of a neighborhood makes the restaurant unique and convenient. They also welcome seasonal parties and events, promising to accommodate your needs. Jeff Jarrell and John Hopper may have been kidding two decades ago about becoming business partners, but the decision sure has served them well. Both family men, the restaurant industry has allowed them to pursue their passion and provide for their families. Jeff has been married to Jennifer Jarrell for the last eight years and has two girls. Madison is four, and Peyton is two. John has been married to Shanna Hopper for just over two years. They know their customers, what works in the Monroe area, and how important it is to provide locals with a consistent, quality product. They pride themselves on superior service, a good time and a superb atmosphere. Whether sipping a signature cocktail on the deck, laughing with friends at the bar or dining with family, the experience should be had at River Grille.

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STICK WITH IT! Being away from home over 200 days a year, can take a toll on the body. With my job, I find it hard most of the time to maintain a healthy lifestyle on the road. The same can be said for all women and men who lead a busy lifestyle. Through the years, I’ve had to come up with inventive ways to keep myself focused and on track health-wise, and I’ve discovered what works for me. Here are my tips and tricks for staying healthy, if you’re in a season of go-go-go!

A. ALDEN’S MEMO Atlanta and Dallas based fashion sales representative for Reeves & Company, Analeise Thomas, shares how to stay healthy with a busy schedule.

“ IT’S NOT THE LAST SUPPER” This is one of my favorite quotes from my super-fit mother, Amanda, that she’s repeated to me for about 10 years now. I’m notorious for picking hot restaurants when I’m out of town and choosing high caloric entrees and sides. I love to try new places and rarely visit the same restaurant twice. To my detriment, I always want to order the best of the best. My mother’s voice always reminds me that this is not the last time you’ll get to eat something fabulous. Just because you’re at a great restaurant doesn’t mean you have to choose their specialty, especially if you are on a diet or trying to watch what you ingest. The same applies to cooking great dishes at home. Don’t derail from your plan. You will eat another great meal in the future. This is not your last supper.

Caudalie Micellar Cleansing Water

Kayla Itsines, founder of Kayla Itsines BBG

GET MOVING

Oftentimes, I find myself sitting at my desk at home for hours on end and forget to take a break and move. This is one of the worst things you can do. My husband, who also works from home, is always reminding me to get up, walk around or stretch. Those of you that work at a desk, try to find time twice a day to walk around your office. Maybe take a walk around the building outside. Obviously, the best thing we can do is carve out about 30 minutes to an hour a day to do real physical activity. My favorites are running and the Kayla Itsines’ at-home workouts (available for download online).

Nike Zoom Structure 19 (my favorite running shoe)

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DRINK WATER

Drinking water throughout the day is super important to your health. Oftentimes, we’re so focused on the tasks in front of us, that we forget to give our bodies its most vital nutrientwater. When I’m at market, I bring my XL S’well bottle and try to fill it up throughout the day at least 3 times. When I’m properly hydrated, my mind and my body work much better. I also don’t feel as bloated, especially if I ate a high-sodium meal the night before. Rule of thumb: divide your weight by 2- the number you get is how much H2O you should drink in ounces per day.

S’well aluminum water bottles

Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes

TAKE OFF YOUR MAKEUP

The hardest thing for me to do at the end of a long day is wash my face. At times I can barely muster up enough strength to brush my teeth and take out my contacts. Two beauty products I can’t live without are Simple’s “Sensitive Skin Experts Cleansing Facial Wipes” to remove my makeup at night, and Caudalie’s “Micellar Cleansing Water” to refresh my skin in the morning. I feel that if I can do those two simple things everyday, my skin stays healthy and clear. Stress from work or children can cause breakouts so it’s super important to do what you can to keep your skin healthy during the busy times in your life.

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BayouTrends

Sparkle and shimmer this New Year with metallic trends from our area boutiques. From diamond rings to shiny things, these items are perfect for adding pizzazz to your wardrobe and home.

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1. K&K GIVING TREE 2. BEEHIVE 3. FIESTA NUTRITION CENTER 4. ANITRA’S 5. NEW ATTITUDE HAIR DESIGN BOUTIQUE LACOUR 6. ABSOLUTELY ABIGAILS 7. FABULOUS FABRIC 8. TRINITY DIAMONDS DIRECT 9. HOUSE OF CARPETS AND LIGHTING 10. WASHINGTON WINE AND SPIRITS 11. SLEEPY HOLLOW FURNITURE 12. SUE PAPERIE 13. VIEUX CARRÉ MARKET 14. HAIK HUMBLE EYE CENTER 15. HOLLIS & COMPANY JEWELERS 16. IF THE CROWN FITS 17. RAIN BEAUTY | BODY 128 JANUARY 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

FLOWERS

True Intentions. To set the tone for a New Year filled with inner peace, floral designer Gregory Hudgins, created a calm and reflective arrangement to help us set our true intentions as we forge new paths in 2017. The designer used bright yellow tulips â&#x20AC;&#x153;growingâ&#x20AC;? among ever-protective (and fragrant) rosemary. For the landscape, Hudgins used green tricillium as a verdant base. The vase was sourced from Arender Gallery in downtown Monroe. Photo by Martin Graham Meyers | Arrangement by Gregory Hudgins

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FLOWERS

For BayouLife, Hudgins has created a “fantasy bonsai” from a juniper cutting that he secured in floral oasis. Green aluminum wire winds around the branches to create the twists and turns familiar with old bonsai. The landscape was created by pavéing ochre colored yarrow. Notice the warm earthen richness of the container that was sourced from Arender Gallery.

Year of the Bonsai.

According to chic designer Gregory Hudgins, “The art of bonsai is robust with symbolism and meaning where everything means something. Each detail sends a subliminal message, contributing to the larger story encompassed within the ongoing creation. Balance, harmony, simplicity and age are major themes that are explored when practicing the art of Bonsai.” Hudgins carefully chose his container and accessory colors to represent the hues found in nature. Twists and turns in branches symbolize age and the journey through time. “The types of trees used are symbolically significant as well,” says the designer. “While some symbols appropriated to bonsai appeal to its mythic nature, much of the symbolism intends to communicate the aesthetics that make up the art of bonsai.” Photo by Martin Graham Meyers | Arrangement by Gregory Hudgins

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Bayou Pages NIGHTSTANDS & COFFEE TABLES Tools of Titans: The Tactics, Routines and Habits of Billionaires, Icons and World-Class Performers R EV I EW B Y NI L S B ORQUI ST

im Ferriss, the author of Tools of Titans, is a Princeton educated self-help and investment guru who also happens to have the most listened to podcast ever, The Tim Ferriss Show. A best-selling author, Ferriss has interviewed hundreds of people whose advice has been compiled into his latest text. Not interested in simply selling pages filled with words, Ferriss has created a lifestyle manual to rival any such book ever written. Included in the book are pieces gleaned from interviews with Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jamie Foxx and Tony Robbins, among many other experts. The primary focus of the text is strength. Strength can certainly be considered an element of several aspects of life, from

physical and mental to vocalization and personal control in potentially dangerous situations. Above all else, or in essence forging all of the elements into one, gaining a sense of better self-control in nearly every facet of life is meant to be the goal. While we may not always be able to power through the difficulties of life, one thing we often can control is how we deal with such obstacles. Ferriss has considered multiple experts from multiple arenas, such as former Navy SEAL Jocko Willink and director Robert Rodriguez (From Dusk â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;til Dawn, Panâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Labyrinth), who discuss failures and setbacks and ways to deal with and overcome them. He has involved entrepreneurs, like Google innovator ChadeMeng Tan, and meditation experts, like Tara

Brach, to teach readers about important aspects of life, such as happiness and tapping into emotions. In all, he has incorporated celebrities whose names are familiar to us all along with masters of subjects, who we may not know in order to create a guide for personal success. While self-help books are not always the solution, that oftentimes comes as a result of the author providing tips based on a singular life, namely his or her own. Ferriss has instead devised and delivered a compendium of advice and applicatory insight from several people, all of whom have devoted their lives to achieving personal goals. Ferriss himself refuses to advertise or promote anything that he has not put into practice in his own life, which may be the best reason to give his fabulous book a try.

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LOUISIANA PURCHASES HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

Louisiana Purchases hosted a holiday open house on Thursday, December 1. Customers were picked out unique ornaments and holiday décor, as well as had gifts wrapped to go under the tree. Emily Lane even had a plate of her own homemade toffee for customers to try!

RAY GRIFFITHS TRUNK SHOW AT HOLLIS & COMPANY

On November 14 and 15th the talented fine jeweler, Ray Griffiths, made a special trip to Hollis & Company to host a trunk show, featuring some of his favorite treasures. The Australian-born jeweler has been creating exquisite jewelry for more than 30 years and was available to give a little insight into the inspiration behind the pieces and the process of making them a reality. Make sure to check out Hollis & Company’s Facebook page for other upcoming Trunk Shows you don’t want to miss.

MATERIAL THINGS HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

At Material Things Holiday Open House, local artisans were on hand to offer unique gift items, just in time for the holiday season. Lisa Harp’s Harpstring Jewelry, Jo Ellen Lee’s original artwork and Tim McIlveene’s British Malaya art were all available.

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COVER GIRLS

Twin sisters, Elana and Rae Dickson, went from practicing cheer routines in their front yard, to smiling in front of the camera as Varsity Spirit Fashion Models. After years of cheering side-by-side, this dynamic duo took on a new role as 2017 cover girls! Hard work paid off when Elana and Rae achieved their goals of becoming varsity cheerleaders at Ouachita Christian School. When they aren’t cheering on their team, you can find them serving as members of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society and Art Club. The busy young women have also been on their school’s homecoming court for the past 4 years. Watch the Dickson sisters make new memories LIVE on Varsity TV, Monday, December 5th at 7:30PM EST as they walk the runway in the 2017 Varsity Spirit Fashion Show! Tune in for updates and behind-the-scenes coverage by following @VarsitySpirit on Instagram and Twitter.

RANDY SMITH HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

On Thursday, December 1, Randy Smith Jewelers hosted an open house, where customers noshed on holiday snacks and dips, while picking out their favorite vintage pieces and sparkly baubles.

Garden District Block Party

The Garden District Block Party was held on December 1, kicking off the holiday party season. Presented by Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cigar and Pipe in conjunction with the Downtown Gallery Crawl for a night of amazing art, delicious food and Louisiana craft brews from Marsala Beverage and our two local brewries, Flying Tiger and Ouachita Brewing Company. Attendees were treated to a concert by Charley Crockett, one of Texasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hottest music acts, as well as a VIP party complete with bottle service and food by Blake Phillips.

On the BayouScene 1 Jaclyn Garner and Josh Zuber 2 Cheryl Richardson and Lark Brothers 3C hase Campo and Alec Shell 4 Amber Hopper, Sarah Maimon and Melissa Saye 5 S arah Hardin and Russell Tarver 6 Doug, Susan and Madyson Sevier 7 Kryonya and Maquista Willians 8 Taylor Bennett and Lindsey Lowe 9 Pam Laird and Jennifer Stephenson 10 Bryan Creekmore with Michael and Katie Hubbard 11 A aron and Aleta Eley 12 R ussell and Julie Kicey 13 Jessica Neal and Kayle Winkler 14 Patrick and Chelsie Summerville 15 J ohn Navarro and Tyler Harris 16 Stephen and Sam Jester

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Junior League of Monroe Christmas Party

Therese Nagem’s lovely house on Park Avenue was home to the annual Junior League of Monroe Christmas party on Tuesday, December 6. Food was provided by Thurman’s and the ladies of the League enjoyed bite size sandwiches, a grits bar and a variety of dips and soufflés. The League hosts this annual party as a way for the members to mix and mingle and kick off the holiday season. The Junior League of Monroe is a non-profit organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

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On the BayouScene 1 J ennifer Donald, Melissa Kiper, Loretta Lemoine and Jessica Louque 2 Angela Grubbs, Mary Francis Siggers and Joann Powell 3M elissa Kiper, April Fontana, Terri Arthur, Sammy and Therese Nagem and Roy Arthur 4 T alitha Elliott and April Fontana 5 E rin Muranovic and Angie Nicholson 6 Ashlie Hennessy, Melissa Kiper and Meghan Sharp 7M eghan Sharp, Lorett Lemoine, Cyndi Hanks, Mary Francis Siggers, JJ Wyatt, Joann Powell, Kelli Cole, Melissa Kiper, Allison Earl and Cherry Coons 8 Jessica Louque, April Fontana and Elizabeth Hughes 9 Nikki Eidt, Ashley Hennesey and Talitha Elliott 10 M eghan Sharp and Hannah Salsbury 11 Cynthia Rodriguez and Lena Ormand 12 Joann and Eric Powell 13 Mary Francis Siggers and Erin Muranovic

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TCBC Christmas Gala

Twin City Ballet Company is known for their powerful and moving Christmas ballets, and this year’s An Annie Christmas choreographed and staged by Joe Istre and a glorious compilation of dance to everyone’s favorite Christmas hymns and carols choreographed by Leaia Alsup set the tone for a festive Christmas season. The lobby of the Jack Howard Theatre at the Monroe Civic Center was filled with Christmas trees of all sizes and shapes that were auctioned off to the highest bidders during the ballet company’s 6th annual Festival of Trees. Leading the auction was TCBC Board President, resident comedienne and children’s book author, Cindy Foust. During the Festival of Trees, Tommy and Melanie Usrey were honored with a Lifetime Membership to Twin City Ballet for their service to the Arts and for being such loyal supporters of Twin City Ballet during Tommy’s tenure as the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council President and CEO.

On the BayouScene 1 Anna Claire and Eric Herndon 2 Kim and Kortney Parker 3P aula and John Trisler 4 Christine and Judge Wilson Rambo 5 Leaia Alsup and Gail Caver 6 Lamar Mullican and Sylvia Masur Thompson 7 Hudson and Leah Smith 8B en and Meg Doughty 9 Tommy and Melanie Usrey 10 G retchen Pettis, Grace Pettis, Beth Swanner 11 J ennifer Street, Meghan Sherman, Camryn Cupples, Catherine Street 12 M allory Meredith, Lauren Littleton, Jessica Green 13 M ary Beth, Mary Amanda and Mae Dickerson 14 Sarah Peavy and Rachel Robinson 15 Judy Green and Kim Green Taylor 16 P aula Ford and Linda Lou Bourland 17 Nicole Chisholm and Robert Moffatt

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Downtown Gallery Crawl On December 1, ten galleries opened their doors to art enthusiasts for the Downtown Gallery Crawl. In West Monroe, the Ouachita River Art Gallery featured works by teen students from Wossman High School. RUMO’s hosted Emily Jane Cruz and Ali Hijazi as they presented Grey Areas. Along Art Alley, UPSTAIRS and Big Room Galleries showcased a “mixed bag” of artists with musician Jackson Culp entertaining the crowd. Brooke Foy at the Garrett House presented her aspiring undergraduate students’ work from ULM’s bachelor of fine arts program. ARENDER studio + gallery had its annual showing of Ruston’s Joey Slaughter’s mixed media pieces and just a few doors down Sugar Gallery displayed several local artists’ pieces. It was a great showing of art this holiday season. Mark your calendar for the next crawl on February 2nd.

On the BayouScene 1 Brooke and Ari Foy 2 Emj Cruz and Ali Hijazi 3B randon Garcia, Jessica Ashmore and Matthew Garcia 4 Mashall and Victoria Smith 5 Kaile Finies and Inique Harris 6 Ben, Alexa, Mac and Violet Hickey 7 Delaine Rodick and Allyson Coleman 8 Samantha McElroy and Molly Holloway 9 Fran Handy and Carissa Odubela 10 Gary and Sharon Ratcliff 11 Josh Moore and Courtney Arledge 12 S haye Brown and Rodney Crawford 13 S tacy Medaries, Ricky Sikes and Daffy Holiday 14 Jenny Ellerbee, Anna Rowan and Emily Caldwell 15 H eaven Wallace and Blake Wooten 16 Jen Brister and Victoria Smith 17 Nancy Shutt 18 Margaret Ellerman and Debbie Ellerman 19 Kelsea McCrary and Ann Bloxom Smith

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Flying Tiger Brewery On Black Friday, now dubbed as “Beer Friday,” local beer enthusiasts flocked to the newly open Flying Tiger Brewery tap room to see what the buzz was about. Guests enjoyed appetizer plates by Trapp’s as they sipped and savored the delicious brews from Monroe’s first craft brewery. On tap for the masses were Burma Blonde, Man at Arms Amber, Heroic Hops IPA, and limited releases Double IPA and Belgian Strong Spiced Ale. The brewery also features a unique, non-alcoholic option of nitropoured VooDoo Cold Brew Coffee by Monroe’s own RoeLa Roasters. Flying Tiger beer is proudly distributed by another local, family owned company, Choice Brands, and can be found in grocery and convenience stores, as well as on tap and in cans at local bars and restaurants.

On the BayouScene 1 Moira O’Connor and Toby Otero 2 Christina Bruno, Cari Ainsworth and Sarah Mouk 3R acel Topakoglu and Kathryn Saye 4 Jacob Pohlman and Michael Pohlman 5 Daniel McHenry and Ember Karmichael 6 Kobus and Cori Smit 7 Troy DuGuay II, Elizabeth and Ivan Meade 8B ecky, Stephanie, Jennifer and Katie Mickel 9 Julie Simpson and Delia Simpson 10 R ebecca and William Cook 11 Ana Lopez, Dr. Timothy Mickel and Natalie Green 12 Jacob Hunt and Reggie Carroll 13 Kevin Copes and Steven Dollar 14 Katlyn Prewitt and Matt Keene 15 Robert Brewer and James Earl Simpson 16 Chelsea Solito and Matthew Fuller 17 Ryan Austin, Rabita Rhodes and Josh Griggs 18 Lindsay Jones and Alex Vinson

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Big Whit Wish List Event On Thursday, December 1, the Big Whit Foundation held its third annual Wish List Event sponsored by Merrill Lynch, Kirby-Orten-GuillotBreaux & Associates. The non-profit foundation invited ten families from Ouachita and Lincoln parishes to Chuck E Cheese for pizza and games. Cincinnati Bengalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s All-Pro offensive tackle, Andrew Whitworth, founder of the foundation, surprised the families via video and told them they would be heading over to Toys R Us to go on a shopping spree! Local organizations recommended families who needed some encouragement during the holiday season. In addition, athletes from both Louisiana Tech and ULM were on hand to shop with the kids for an incredible experience. Â

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On the BayouScene 1 Catrina Tatum and Lizzie 2 Jacob and Labrun Nelson 3 Faith Washington and Eldrick 4 Malinda Martinez, Blue and Autym Scales 5 Michaela Osborne, Dev Nials and Angela Tocco 6 Kenyetta Badger and Asia 7 Lisa Miller and Seth Hall 8 Caden and Payton Simpson 9 Julie Emory and Gary Stockley 10 Clinton, Cheyanne Lyon, and Waylon and Bailey Thibodeaux

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BayouLife Mix and Mingle

On December 8, the staff of BayouLife Magazine hosted the inaugural Mix and Mingle Holiday Open House. Partygoers were invited to attend the event with the donation of an unwrapped gift to be delivered to the Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home in Ruston. Thanks to our generous patrons, over 100 toys were donated. During the event, guests were treated to food and drinks from For His Temple Family Foods, Newk’s Eatery, CC’s Coffee House, Choice Brands and Marsala Beverage. A fashion show organized by Julianne Tippen featured clothing from area boutiques. Sarah Jeffords, owner of Bash Booth, kept the crowd entertained with her awesome selfie station. Special thanks to the amazing DJ D-Smooth for keeping the party rocking, Brennan Dodge, Dansby’s Taylor Rental, NorthPro Lawncare, Maré Brennan and Gregory Hudgins, our gorgeous models and all those that made this event a success.

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On the BayouScene 1 Elizabeth and Madison Guerriero 2 Josh and Leslie Culp 3 S arah Katherine Ewing and Stacey Guillory 4 Ellie, Kelly and Kaydell Jackson 5 Cassie Livingston and Jay Stevenson 6 John Easton and Brandy Ragsdale 7C arol-Anne Barnes, Jana and Cathy Whatley 8M acie Prudhomme, Jessica Pollard and Gabbie Aiello 9 Faisal and Jada Ali 10 Adalyn Boyd and Dakota Dupont 11 Taylor Collins and Jim Boothe 12 Toni Navarro, Cassie Livingston and Beatrice Tatem 13 Sarah Goodgion and Brooke Kenney 14 Chloe Cantu and Anansi Thomas 15 Lissy Compton and Leigh Moses 16 Katherine Antley, Tara Trahern and Bethany Lewis 17 Alice Rutledge, Charlie and Lori French 18 Les Johnson, Brad McGilton and Will Copeland 15

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Calendar of Events For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com January 7 My Mini Masur Drop In Activity Time: 2:00 pm-5:00 pm Bring your kids and let the creativity flow at the Masur Museum. Beili Liu has planned an activity for children who want to learn how she makes art! This event is free of charge, and children will leave with a unique art project. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost:Free Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org Studio Practice Lecture: Dean Dablow Time: 3:00 pm-4:00 pm Join Masur Museum as they welcome artist Dean Dablow. During this lecture Mr. Dablow will discuss his life, career and rich artistic practice. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org The Marjorie Stricklin Emerging Artists Competition Time: 7:00 pm Come out and hear the wonderful music of emerging artists brought to you by the Monroe Symphony League and the Monroe Symphony Orchestra. Venue: ULM Emy-Lou Biedenharn Recital Hall Admission Cost: $5 per ticket Phone: 318-342-1568 Web: www.mymso.org/ Pilots for Patients Fundraiser at The MAC Time: 8:15 am - 3:30 pm The Monroe Athletic Club will be hosting a fundraiser for Pilots for Patients. All class are complimentary and donations will go to Pilots for Patients. For sponsorship or donation information, email groupexercise@monroeathleticclub. com or call 318-387-2352 ext. 205. January 13-14 AG EXPO 2016 Time: Friday: 2:00-8:00 pm; Saturday: 9:00 am-4:00 pm

AG EXPO is a combination of several events tied into one venue, which assures wide appeal for people of all ages. There is an educational “Ag Alley” which includes a mini farm that targets youth but is enjoyed by all ages; a junior livestock show, a miniature cow show, a trade show and an Agricultural Awards and Legislative Appreciation Luncheon which recognizes regional agricultural leaders and legislators. Venue: Ike Hamilton Expo Center Arena Admission Cost: $5 in advance; $7 at the door Phone: 318-325-9160 Web: www.agexpo.org January 13-15 Heartfelt Experience Time: Friday 5:30pm - Saturday 3:00pm The women of Duck Commander and Christian author Dr. Joneal Kirby are coming together for the 3rd Heartfelt Experience Event. Join Joneal, Missy Robertson, Kay Robertson and special guest, Lysa TerKeurst, for this weekend of fun, faith-filled stories, friendships, amazing worship with Dove award winning group Selah, Bible teaching and so much more. Venue: FirstWest Admission Cost: $30 - $149 Phone: 318-547-2453 Web: www.eventbrite. com/e/heartfelt-experiencetickets-27843531753 January 13 Project 41’s White As Snow Gala Time: 7:00 pm-9:00 pm Spend a memorable evening at the White As Snow Gala! White Cocktail attire is encouraged. All the proceeds from the evening will aid in the fight to end human trafficking in our community. Venue: Monroe Civic Center Admission Cost: Individual Ticket:$41; Table of 8: $500 Phone: 318-329-2225 Web: www.ci.monroe.la.us/monroecivic-center.php

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January 19 Reception and Gallery Talk at Masur Museum Time: 6:00 pm-8:00 pm View Dean Dablow’s new exhibition as he gives insight into his creative process. Dablow’s exhibition is a retrospective, featuring new work specifically created for the Masur galleries. Drinks and light fare will be provided. Free and open to the public! Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org

guests can choose a beautiful bowl crafted by a local artist to take home as a reminder of all of the empty bowls in the world. One hundred percent of the ticket sales are devoted to fighting hunger through the Northeast Louisiana Food Bank. The goal is to raise awareness for hunger while also raising critical funds to provide food assistance to those struggling with hunger locally. Venue: Ouachita Candy Company Warehouse Admission Cost: $30 with bowl, $15 without bowl Phone: (318) 322-3567

Corey Smith at Live Oaks Time: 7:00 pm-11:00 pm Join Live Oaks Bar and Ballroom as they present country music singer, Corey Smith. Venue: Live Oaks Bar and Ballroom Admission Cost: $20 Advance General Admission Phone: 318-548-4562 Web: www.facebook.com/ liveoaksbarandballroom

An Evening of Southern Elegance Time: 7:00 pm Join the Cancer Foundation League as they host a wonderful evening of Southern Charm with all the trimmings! This charity event will raise money for the Cancer Foundation League to provide direct financial assistance to individuals diagnosed with cancer. Venue: Bayou DeSiard Country Club Admission Cost: $100 Phone: (318) 966-1953 Web: www.cancerfoundationleague. com/

January 20-22 Antique Show Time: Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm; Sunday 12:00 pm-5:00 pm This is going to be a wonderful show with dealers from all over the United States with lots of jewelry, glassware, furniture, rugs, silver, linens and vintage maps and clothing. There are door prizes all three days! You don’t want to miss it! Venue: Monroe Convention Center Admission Cost: $6 Phone: 318-323-3188 Web: www.ci.monroe.la.us January 28 Empty Bowls: A Serving of Art, Food and Music Time: 11:00 am-2:00 pm Join the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana for a fabulous afternoon of art, food and music! Signature dishes from area chefs will be served, accompanied by music, activities and a silent auction. With the price of an inclusive event ticket,

Enjoy your stay in Monroe-West Monroe! We at the Monroe-West Monroe Convention & Visitor’s Bureau hope you have a great stay here! Please feel free to call us at 800-843-1872 if you have any questions. You may also stop by our offices at 601 Constitution Drive, West Monroe for brochures, coupons, and additional information. Visit www.monroe-westmonroe. org for information about events in Ouachita Parish.