BayouLife Magazine January 2016 by BayouLife Magazine

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JANUARY 2016

16 / P. ALLEN SMITH Creating an Indoor Winter Garden 28 / FISHING WITH KENNY Five Rules to Fight January’s Feast or Famine 34 / A. ALDEN’S MEMO A New You in 2016 38 / BAYOU PAGES Three Memorable Memoirs 44 / MEREDITH’S MUSINGS I Don’t Need Your Numbers

46 / ASK ERIN Organizing Resolutions for 2016 50 / ERASING THE HOLIDAYS Successfully Shed the Lingering Effects of the Holidays 62 / LOOKS FOR THE NEW YEAR Four Looks to Take You From Day to Night 72 / BAYOU OUTDOORS Late Season Deer Strategies 78 / BAYOU ARTIST Charlie Heck In Black and White 86 / SIMPLY LOU How the Rockin’ Pneumonia Saved My Life 90 / VIEW OF TOMORROW Introducing John Bel Edwards 96 / BAYOU EATS Vieux Carré Market A Family Affair 106 / MARDI GRAS Meet the King and Queen of Krewe of Janus

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BayouLife

APPY NEW YEAR! IT’S HARD

to believe that 2016 is here. We are so excited to have a new office and more space to stretch our wings. Along with this change, we’ve also decided to add more magazines to our distribution list and increase our circulation. We have a few new writers that have joined our staff as well as a new employee to add to our roster. We want to welcome Gaeb Cardinale to the BayouLife family. Gaeb is an amazing artist and we are excited to have him a part of our creative team. This month is our health and beauty issue – considering January is all about resolutions to not only get healthy but improve your whole self! Michael Devault talked to several area experts about the best makeup tips, skin tips and exercises to get your skin and body in shape. Find this article on page 50. We also partnered with local fitness expert and personal trainer, Janet Colvin, to bring you nine easy exercises to do in the comfort of your own home. We want to spend a special thanks to If the Crown Fits for letting us use some of their awesome fitness wear. See these exercises on page 102. If you’ve never met Dr. Mickel, then hopefully you’ve been able to read some of his articles in BayouLife. I can’t say that I don’t get a little nervous when I first read his submissions but inevitably, I always get a little tickled at some of the things he’s brave enough to say. Truth is, we are lucky to have a plastic surgeon of his caliber in northeast Louisiana. Along with his business, Dr. Mickel is actively involved in his church and hosts a weekly men’s prayer group, he also volunteers his efforts at the cleft lip and palate clinic. These are the reasons he is this

month’s BayouIcon. Read his story on page 106. I remember the first time I saw Charlie Heck’s work, there was a large black and white print that I was in love with at the MSO’s Art with a View. I started talking to Mr. Charlie, not knowing he was the artist and eventually he took me on a small trip around the pieces, telling me the background and locations that he took each shot. He is such a genuinely nice man and an incredible photographer. He is this month’s BayouArtist. Read about him on pages 78-81. A few years ago when I moved back home from Austin, I was lucky enough to meet Therese Nagem. At the time, I had no idea her husband was “the Sammy” of Sammy’s Grill in Baton Rouge. If you want to talk about a gifted family, throw Therese, Sammy, Leigh Liles and husband, Bart, Jacyln Hall and her husband, Bradley, together and poof...you’ve got Vieux Carré Market. It’s truly one of my favorite restaurants in Monroe. If that gluten-free burger wrapped in collard greens ever disappeared, I would be heartbroken. Read about Vieux Carré Market on page 96. As we move into the new year, we do so with a heavy heart with the recent loss of two precious children in our community. Our prayers are extended to the Joyce and Perry families. We do hope that you enjoy reading this issue of BayouLife Magazine. Happy New Year.

~ Cassie Livingston

1201 Royal Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: 318.855.3185 Fax: 318.855.4645

WW W. B AYO UL I F EM A G . C O M PUBLISHER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com EDITOR Maré Brennan mare@bayoulifemag.com STAFF WRITER Michael DeVault michael@bayoulifemag.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Moffett melanie@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Toni Navarro toni@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Amanda Singley amanda@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Ashley Hubenthal ashley@bayoulifemag.com OFFICE MANAGER Ellie Jackson ellie@bayoulifemag.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Maré Brennan Dan Chason Kenny Covington Lou Davenport Dr. David Finley Cindy Gist Foust Malerie Gwin Annie Jopling Linda Holyfield Barbara Leader Erin Love Meredith McKinnie Dr. Timothy Mickel Mary Napoli P. Allen Smith Beatrice A. Tatem Analeise Thomas Judy Wagoner PriscillaTess Wilkins CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Martin G Meyers ON THE COVER BayouIcon, Dr. Timothy Mickel, page 106 Cover Photography by Brad Arender 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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Your Hearing Health The Importance of Annual Hearing Checks

VERY NEW YEAR’S EVE BRINGS MANY NEW RESOLUTIONS. Most often we aim to practice better eating habits, get more exercise and make sure to sleep enough each night. Rarely, however, does anyone consider taking better care of their hearing health. Our senses, especially hearing, play a vital role in overall health and wellness. Here are several reasons why having your hearing checked annually is an opportunity to be healthier now and in the future. Most people make a goal to regularly visit their dentist, eye specialist and physician for annual check-ups. So why is having an annual hearing screening so commonly neglected? The biggest reason might be that symptoms from a toothache, high blood pressure or poor vision are much more noticeable than the symptoms of hearing loss. Those symptoms are often more subdued over time, even though hearing is a crucial part of our quality of life. Numerous studies have shown a direct correlation between the likelihood of dementia for people who have untreated hearing loss. In fact, a Johns Hopkins University study showed that a majority of individuals who had treated their hearing loss with hearing aid technology were able to ward off dementia symptoms for several years. Additionally, hearing loss has been linked to hearing health as the inner ear is sensitive to blood flow and can indicate abnormalities in hearing function. Many of us have spent the recent holidays with family, some of which we haven’t seen in awhile. You may have noticed that a family member couldn’t hear quite as well the last time you visited with them and contemplated discussing it with them. When it comes to hearing loss, good things come to those who don't wait. All too often, patients go seven to ten years before seeking treatment for hearing loss. During this time, the condition significantly worsens and the benefits of hearing aid technology may not be as capable of restoring hearing. So what happens during these years that causes so many people to put off getting a hearing consultation, even when they are free? Upon noticing the early signs of hearing loss, such as mishearing syllables and softer sounds, most individuals will enter the denial stage. In this stage of hearing loss, the effects are readily dismissed as not a se8 JANUARY 2016 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

rious issue or threat to their quality of life. While these assumption are accurate in for the short-term, the long-term ramifications are worth consideration early on. Most hearing professionals recommend that individuals, with or without hearing loss, should get a hearing test every year to stay on top of changes in their hearing abilities, just as occurs with vision and other regular checkups. As those in the denial stage continue to deal with their hearing loss difficulties, they typically worsen over time. After a year or two, the hearing loss is now having more of an everyday impact on the individual. Due to this, most people will enter the coping stage, where they pick up various coping mechanisms to accommodatefor their hearing loss rather than seeking treatment. Examples of the coping mechanisms include turning their head to use a good ear, sitting on certain sides of people and asking others to repeat themselves in conversations. Oftentimes, there is an overlap between denial and coping stage where one may state, "Speak up! You're mumbling." After using various coping mechanisms to keep up with listening in various environments the combination of continued worsening of their hearing loss and exhaustion form trying to cope becomes too much to handle. Thus, we all too often witness people slip into the withdrawal stage. At this point the effects of hearing loss have had a larger impact their quality of life as individuals in this stage will stop going to public gatherings and outings where the environment is too stressful for listening. Embarrassment also plays a major role in the withdrawal stage as not understanding conversations or requesting people to repeat themselves can be perceived negatively. The last stage of hearing loss is acceptance, which usually occurs after many years struggle with the prior stage. It is truly unfortunate that anyone would needlessly struggle with hearing loss when treatment options are readily available. If you, or a loved one, find yourself in any of these stages, don't wait a moment longer and contact our office for a free consultation today.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

For the Love of Beer The Story Behind Samuel Adams Boston Lager

OR THE FIRST 35 YEARS OF HIS LIFE, JIM KOCHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S family history and his future career lay in the attic of his parent's house. Jim's father Charles Koch, a fifth generation brewer, had left the business but kept the old family beer archives upstairs in an old trunk. The recipes hadn't been used since the Louis Koch brewery closed during Prohibition and when American tastes went away from full flavored beers. Jim left for college believing that for the first time in 150 years the eldest Koch son would turn his back on beer. After college and graduate school Jim began a promising career in management consulting. Even though he followed that path for several years, he always kept an eye on the beer business. In 1984, his instincts told him it was time to make his move; people were starting to crave something different in their beer. In 1984, the American landscape was vastly different from what it is today. The only options for domestic beer were pale lagers from the mass market brewers. To find a flavorful, "better beer,â&#x20AC;? there were only a handful of imports, like Heineken, that were thought of as the only option for quality beer. American craft beers were virtually non-existent, or still in the basements and kitchens of a few spirited brewers. There were virtually no widely distributed micro brewed beers. Jim Koch and his partner, Rhonda Kallman, were the only employees when the company began. They spent most of their time going bar to bar just trying to sample people on this different kind of beer. The beer caught on faster than anyone expected. By the end of the year sales of Samuel Adams Boston Lager had reached 500 barrels, and distribution had expanded from Massachusetts to Connecticut, and a place where great beer is revered, Germany. It

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was beginning to look as if Jim's instincts were right. If you offered people a better beer, they'd be thirsty for it. While it didn't have the trappings of a company that was about to change the industry, Samuel Adams had two key things in its favor: a full flavored, quality beer, and an incredible passion for that beer. Drinkers quickly learned about Samuel Adams and shared that passion. Sales were brisk, by 1988, they were able to build a small brewery in Boston, sold 36,000 barrels, and were able to make the beer available on both coasts. The expansion wasn't just geographic, however. Samuel Adams also began introducing new beer styles which included a line of seasonal beers. The success and rapid growth of Samuel Adams soon became a catalyst to other small brewers, and the microbrew revolution began to take hold. By 1995, there were hundreds of small, local, and regional breweries sprouting up all over the country. It was a great time to be a beer lover in America. Today, they are a team of about 1,200 people with breweries in Boston, Cincinnati and Pennsylvania. The family of beers includes over 50 different beer styles that's ever changing. Samuel Adams beers are now available in all 50 states and more than 20 foreign countries and have been recognized for awards all over the world, including in the style's country of origin. Over the years the beers have won more awards around the globe than any brand in history. But what they're most proud of, and passionate about, is still the beer itself. From the first days in Jim's kitchen through today, the mission at Samuel Adams hasn't wavered or compromised. Their central focus remains the same: Make the best beer possible.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Glenwood Urology

Robotic Urological Surgery Results in Less Scarring and Recovery Time

ROSTATE CANCER IS THE MOST common cancer among men, but as two million survivors can attest, it is often treated successfully. One out of every ten men will develop the disease at some time in his life, most often after age 50. Prostate cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the prostate. The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It is about the size of a walnut and surrounds the urethra, the tube that empties urine from the bladder. The prostate gland produces fluid that is one of the components of semen. Treatment options and prognosis depend on the stage of the cancer, the Gleason score, and the patient’s age and general health. With greater public awareness, early detection is on the rise and mortality rates are declining. New advances in medical technology, such as robotic surgery, are enabling cancer patients to return to active and productive lives soon after their treatment. Other urologic conditions that can be treated with robotic surgery include kidney or urinary tract disorders along with kidney and bladder cancer. The urinary system is made up of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The key elements in the system are the kidneys, a pair of fist-sized organs located below the 12 JANUARY 2016 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

ribs toward the middle of the back. Kidneys work by removing extra liquid and waste from the blood in the form of urine. Narrow tubes called ureters carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder, a sack-like organ in the lower abdomen. Urine is then stored in the bladder and empties through a narrow canal called the urethra. When parts of the urinary system are not functioning properly, symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe. Some typical signs and symptoms of urological conditions may include: • Blood in the urine or semen • A lump in the abdomen • Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite • Pain in the side or lower back • Changes in urination including frequency, pain or incontinence • Feeling the need to urinate without results • Sensation that the bladder is not empty after urinating • Trouble starting or holding back urination • A weak or interrupted urine flow

When medicine, lifestyle changes and other non-surgical treatments do not ease urologic symptoms, the patient’s doctor may recommend surgery. Many urologic surgeries are now performed robotically by Dr. Edward Rutland

at Glenwood Regional Medical Center. Robotic surgery allows patients to return home more quickly, and with less scarring and side effects than open surgeries. Dr. Rutland is a board certified urology specialist and is one of the only robotically trained urologists in Northeast Louisiana. With robotic surgery, Dr. Rutland is able to operate with greater vision, precision and control. He performs the operations through a few small incisions instead of a large open incision used in traditional urologic surgeries. The da Vinci System features a magnified 3D high-definition vision system and special wristed instruments that bend and rotate far greater than the human wrist. Dr. Rutland remains in complete control of the da Vinci System, which translates his hand movements into smaller, more precise movements of tiny instruments inside the patient’s body. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with a urological condition that could require surgery, it’s important to consider all of your options. To learn more about robotic urological surgery, ask your doctor for a reference to Dr. Edward Rutland at Glenwood Urology. Glenwood Urology is located in Suite 111 at the Glenwood Medical Mall in West Monroe. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 318-329-8517.

Perfect Imperfections for 2016 The Freedom and Joy of Being Yourself in the New Year

BY BEATRICE A. TATEM, PH.D., LPC-S, NCC, ACS

ITH ALL OF THE GOODNESS AND ALL OF ITS challenges, 2015 has quickly come and gone. It is now 2016, the start of the New Year. It is the time of the year when millions of people (present company included) consider ways to change their lives or aspects of themselves they feel need to be changed. When reflecting over 2015, many will agree there were positive experiences as well as aspects of life needing to be changed. Such change is often attempted through the setting of resolutions. Setting New Year’s resolutions is a ritual of commitment traditionally associated with the eve of the New Year with hopes for the upcoming year. Resolutions are a promise to yourself or decision to do something, to improve ones behavior or lifestyle in some way. New Year’s resolutions are shaped by the thoughts, opinions, desires and ideas of the individual. Regardless of who creates the resolution, how and why the resolutions are derived, resolutions are set to make us better. Consider what we do when we make a New Year’s resolution: generally we pick an area of life we want to improve and then we take measures or set goals to get us there. Setting resolutions with thought embodies the essence of who we are in our journey or quest of having a life worth living. Initiating a resolution with out considering your needs and wants thoroughly results in restrictive, fixed, rigid and short-lived. Created with thought and meaning, setting a resolution can be a purposeful act with meaningful results. In past years, I have ended each year with a plan to have a resolution in place to start the New Year. In fact, I have even put in place as part of the resolution to make sure it does not end. Like many, shortly into the New Year my well-intentioned resolutions fall to the wayside. Either the novelty of the resolution has worn off or life happens and I stop focusing on the resolution. When reflecting on resolutions I recognize many failed resolutions are unrealistic, overly zealous and lack meaning. New Year’s resolutions are often implemented to correct mistakes, to right wrongs and to eliminate shortcomings. When the em14 JANUARY 2016 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

phasis of New Year’s resolutions is shifted to appreciation, self-approval, authenticity, awareness and acceptance the impact is often powerful. Individuals frequently seek counseling as a New Year’s resolution with the intent to improve oneself. In such instances, I encourage individuals to consider if their resolution is meaningful and purposeful to them. Is it conducive to their current lifestyle and the life they desire? I recommend they select authentic resolutions and stay true to the resolution; life happens and resolutions disappear. Avoid attempting to implement a resolution merely because it is popular, assess your needs and move forward. Honor values and not just a list of “shoulds” and “wants.” Implement loving, kind and joyous resolutions, versus adopting punitive, negative and hurtful resolutions; positive resolutions are more likely to be maintained. Be open-minded. Resolutions can be more than a holiday gimmick but a plan of growth for life. Free yourself from the stress of perfectionism…resolutions are indeed optional. Perfecting the imperfect is not a stance of complacency, but a suggestion of acceptance and appreciation of self in its purest, unaltered imperfect state. If you were to strip down and stand before a mirror what would you see; who would you see? If you were to strip down emotionally, what would you feel and how would you feel? Hopefully, you will be reminded that no one is perfect and despite imperfections, goodness exist. In living, we all exist within a state of imperfection. Take measures to be aware and then look for ways you wish to evolve. Strive to be yourself with all of your imperfections. This year, connect with your imperfections, have the courage to own them and practice loving and accepting yourself unconditionally. Happy New Year 2016!!!

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.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

P. Allen Smith

Creating an Indoor Winter Garden Cozy up indoors this January with a colorful collection of houseplants. Here are a few tips on how to get the most out of your indoor winter garden.

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s the frigid temperatures of January continue to drop, cozy up indoors with your own collection of colorful houseplants. Tending to these plants is a great way to keep your home lively after the excitement of the holiday dies down, and enjoy some of the blooms and color of spring a little early. There are many plants and bulbs you can pick up at your local garden center or grocery store, and caring for them is a cinch. Some of my favorite indoor plants include kalanchoe, paperwhites, cyclamen and primrose. I like to think about ways to get creative with these plants, whether it’s designing a centerpiece for your dining table, or just thinking outside the box when choosing a container to grow in. Here are a few tips and ideas on how to grow these plants and get the most out of your indoor winter garden.

Kalancheos This plant has more than 100 varieties, and is most widely known for its interesting leaf-shape and vibrant flowers. It is native to arid areas, so they prefer drier soil — be careful not to over-water. Flowering kalanchoes are available in shades of red, pink, yellow or white. Succulents like these are fairly easy to grow — they prefer warm, sunny locations and moderate watering. You’ll want to reduce their water even more in the winter so the soil dries out completely between waterings. Also be careful not to let the temperature fall below 55 degrees. Plant them in a nutrientrich potting soil and feed them bi-weekly in the summer with a liquid fertilizer. These plants will bloom for a long time and their glossy leaves keep them looking great year-round. Just pinch back the spent flowers to encourage reblooming. If you want to propagate your kalanchoes, it couldn’t be easier! Just take one of those lush, glossy leaves and lay it on moist soil. In about three weeks you’ll start to see new life emerging. This plant is gorgeous, but poisonous to animals, so please keep it out of reach. Cyclamen This tropical tuber produces large, beautiful blooms that — with the proper care — can last and last. Cyclamen are a

bit particular about their growing conditions so pay close attention and you could fill your home with their beautiful, yet delicate, blooms. Cyclamen come in a wide range of color, from white through various shades of pink into the deep red, and their variegated heart-shaped foliage is its own work of art. To get the most out of your cyclamen, be sure you grow them in the correct conditions. They prefer cool, humid environments. Keep them in a room that gets no warmer than 68 degrees (anything below 40 degrees is also undesirable), and position in indirect sunlight. Cyclamen are sensitive to both under and over watering, so be sure your pot has good drainage. Water only when the soil becomes dry, but be careful not to let plant remain dry for too long. If cyclamen completely dry out — they will show signs with drooping leaves and flowers — they may not be able to recover. Only fertilize once every couple of months with a liquid fertilizer mixed at half the strength. Once these lovelies are blooming, try them as a cut flower. Three or five in a small vase really makes a bold statement. Primrose This heavily flowering houseplant comes in a rainbow of color, and with the proper care, can produce long lasting blooms. Primrose thrives in moist, well-drained soil so keep the soil moist, but not too moist. As soon as the top of the soil feels dry, it’s time to water again. The plant will begin to wilt and die quickly once it completely dries out. Primrose grows best at between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, but be sure the temperature never gets above 80 or below 40 degrees or they will begin to die quickly. Position them in the home in indirect sunlight and only fertilize monthly when not in bloom. Once temperatures warm up outside, it’s a good idea to set your primrose outdoors. Bring it in again once the temperatures begin to drop below 50 degrees.

Paperwhites are great, because they will grow in almost anything — soil, gravel or just plain water. I prefer to plant them in soil or sand to help keep them anchored and less likely to tip over. Keep your potted paperwhites in a sunny spot and water them often. As the shoots elongate, turn the pot to prevent leaning, which can weaken the stems. Feel free to get creative when designing your indoor plant arrangements. I especially love to incorporate elements of the winter landscape when working with paperwhites. Their snowy white petals lend themselves perfectly to blend with pinecones and other winter botanicals. To create this whimsical arrangement, just follow these easy steps:

1. Find a medium-sized galvanized bucket and drill holes for drainage. 2. Fill the bucket about two-thirds full with moistened potting soil, and gently push the bulbs in. 3. Add about an inch more potting soil over the bulbs, only leaving about one inch of the top of the bulb exposed. 4. Set bulbs in a warm, sunny spot in your home and watch them grow. 5. Once the shoots begin to show flowers, cover the top of the soil with moss and pepper with small pinecones for a delightful, wintery effect.

Paperwhites Nothing captures the crisp serenity of winter quite like the paperwhite narcissus. These lovely white flowers grow from bulbs, and their sweet scent and bright green foliage make them a necessity around my home. Usually bulbs are purchased in the late fall; however you may still be able to find them in garden centers. It’s important to look for firm bulbs with no mold, or make it a step easier and buy a budding bulb that has been pre-forced. Be sure to get enough to plant new pots every two weeks or so for a steady emergence of flowers through the winter. Store the bulbs you are holding back in a brown paper sack in a cool, dry location. Bulbs may begin to emerge on their own, so plant the ones with the longest sprouts first.

P. Allen Smith P. Allen Smith is an award-winning designer, gardening and lifestyle expert and host of two public television programs, Garden Home and Garden to Table, and the syndicated 30-minute show P. Allen Smith’s Garden Style. Smith is one of America's most recognized and respected design experts, providing ideas and inspiration through multiple media venues. He is the author of the best-selling Garden Home series of books. Allen is also very active on social media such as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Learn more at www.pallensmith.com. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Arrow Dental Center Smile Big in 2016!

HE BEGINNING OF A NEW YEAR 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 18 JANUARY 2016 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

care reduce the risk of cavities, it can also reduce the risk of gum disease. Almost 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 irritate the gums and restrict 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 2016 the time to improve yourself can begin with improving your smile! Having a comprehensive oral exam by the staff at Arrow Dental 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!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

National Catholic Schools Week

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Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School • St. Frederick Catholic High School Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School

EACH ME, LORD,YOUR WAY;THAT I MAY WALK IN your truth, single-hearted and revering your name. I will praise you with all my heart, glorify your name forever, Lord my God.” (Psalm 86:11-12) Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School, St. Frederick Catholic High School and Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School will celebrate National Catholic Schools Week this year beginning on Saturday, January 31st and continue until Friday, February 6th. Locally, as well as nationally, Catholic school students will have the opportunity to participate in community service projects, spirit days, games and more to commemorate this annual celebration of Catholic schools. Locally, students from all three schools will participate in a Religion Scholars Bowl held in Shreveport during the week along with an All Catholic Schools Mass, held at St. Frederick’s Marsh Memorial Gym. National Catholic Schools Week is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. Each year, it begins the last Sunday in January and continues all week. The theme for the 2016 National Catholic Schools Week is, “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service.” Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with Masses and other activities for students and families. Through these events, schools focus on the value Catholic education provides to young people and its contributions to our church, our communities and our nation. The theme, “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service”, highlights the fact that faith development, academic excellence and dedication to community service are all integral components of a Catholic school education. With high academic standards grounded in strong moral values and high graduation rates, Catholic schools and their graduates make a significant contribution to our society as a whole as well as our local community. “Our Catholic schools appreciate the support we receive from the community throughout the year and encourage our students to give back through service projects all year,” said Lisa Patrick, Jesus the Good Shepherd School Principal. “It’s part of our effort to provide a 20 JANUARY 2016 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

well-rounded, Christ-centered education.” 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. • We 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 self-discipline. • 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 through 6th grade while St. Frederick High School serves students in grades seven through twelve. Prospective students and their families as well as community residents 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. St. Frederick High School

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

The ULTRA Lifestyle Start the New Year Off Right with Michelob ULTRA™

ICHELOB ULTRA™ APPEALS TO A WIDE AUDIENCE of beer drinkers that are interested in a superior tasting light beer; it also promotes a healthy, active, social lifestyle. In a time that seems everyone is looking for the newest local, stoutest brew, the ULTRA™ family that has been around for around fifteen years has actually proven to be one of the fastest growing brands in the business. Appealing to active people of all ages, the Michelob ULTRA™ family promotes the “ULTRA™ lifestyle”, nationally sponsoring foot races, golf events and tennis tournaments.

Nationally Sponsored Racing Series: • Trirock Triathlon Series • 13.1 Marathon Series • Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon Series

Golf • Official Beer Sponsor of the PGA, LPGA, Champions Tour

Tennis • Official Beer Sponsor of the ATP

In addition to national events, Marsala Beverage, together with Michelob ULTRA™ offers local partnerships and sponsors many upcoming local events in the community.

Local Sponsorships • FitRight Racing • Dirty South Running • Hells Hills Running Series • Lake Providence Triathlon • Susan G Komen Race for the Cure

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Since Michelob ULTRA™ was introduced in 2002, it’s high end American-style has appealed to the masses. People who are interested in a low carb lifestyle finally had an option to choose from when it came to beer. Its subtle fruit and citrus aromas compliment this light-bodied beer’s smooth and refreshing taste. One year after its introduction, Michelob ULTRA™ became the fastest-growing new brand in the industry and was a phenomenal hit among adult fitness enthusiasts, adult consumers living an active lifestyle, and those looking for a great-tasting beer with lower carbohydrates and fewer calories. The original Michelob ULTRA™ has 4.2% alcohol by volume, 95 calories and only 2.6 grams of carbs per serving, making it one of the lowest carb beer choices on the market. But Michelob ULTRA™ isn’t the only choice when it comes to low carb brew. The ULTRA™ family offers many choices for a wide variety of taste.

• Michelob ULTRA™ Amber is a beer that is full in flavor and rich in color with great amber taste and 3.7g of carbs, 114 calories and 5% alcohol by volume.

• Michelob ULTRA™ Lime Cactus boasts a refreshing lime taste, perfect for summer days. With 4% alcohol by volume, 95 calories, and only 5.5 grams of carbs per serving it makes a great choice for healthy beer drinkers.

• Michelob ULTRA™ Light Cider is a light, refreshing cider made from crisp apples and naturally sweetened. It offers a lighter taste and fewer calories than other ciders. It is gluten free, has 4% alcohol by volume and 118 calories.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

If the Crown Fits Not Just a Maternity Boutique

BY MALERIE GWIN

E ARE THRILLED TO BE ADDING EVEN MORE fitness apparel at If The Crown Fits. Fitness in itself is on the rise and people everywhere are sporting active wear (even if they aren't going to the gym!) We are just so thankful for the opportunity to bring fun and reliable workout pieces to our area. We are proud that we have a very attractive price point for some solid fitness apparel lines in the industry. Our most popular brand is "full Flex spandex" which is made for heavy sweat environments- soul sweating workouts. One thing we really like about this line is the fabrics can be worn in chlorine and salt water. We try to buy what the real woman would want to work out in. Here are just a few of the lines we are now carrying:

• ONZIE - our original line with super fun patterns and colors. • GLYDER- we are so excited to have this line in the store. They are manufactured out of the same warehouse as the popular Lulu Lemon (we are $30/$40 less price wise!) • LVR Fashion- these basic organic cotton pieces are so great! They come in a basic legging or the new popular trend the fold over legging!

We have also been blessed enough to expand into YOUTH FITNESS APPAREL! Yes, you read it right!! This is the Onzie line and the great pieces that are available for the women are now available in sizes 4-16! Same great patterns and price range! These pieces are perfect for our cheerleaders, dancers, tumblers, and athletes! We really do strive to meet all of our customer's needs.. Here are a few points we really try to focus on when we are picking out new fitness apparel. 24 JANUARY 2016 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

Our checklist consists of: • Affordability • Adorable • Supportive • Long Lasting

And we feel we have been able to check all of these off with our current lines! Basically, our goal is to bring our customers fun, fashionable colors and prints, while being fully functional in whatever style of fitness that you practice. We are also excited to announce our loyalty program. Any fitness coach, CrossFit coach, personal trainer, zumba or yoga instructor will receive a discount with us every time they shop! With all of the excitement of the fitness lines, we have had a few people ask if we are still going to be selling maternity... of course! We love everything we do involving maternity and after clothing and products. We are looking forward to growing even more in our maternity sections. We have expanded into plus size denim for maternity.. This has been SO GREAT for us as it is really hard to find plus size denim at a good price point (ours are $42) So we are really excited about that. We will also really be focusing on our maternity tops UNDER $40. Over half of our store features tops under $40, and we are looking forward to expanding those lines. Don't forget about our nursing bras, accessories and tops for after giving birth. It can be difficult to find stylish nursing wear, so we really try and make sure you find what you are looking for. We also still supply our accessories like belly sashes, belly support bands, belts and delivery gowns. We are so blessed to be celebrating almost a full three years in business, and we can't wait to see what God has in store for us in 2016!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Haik Humble Eye Center Introduces Medical Aesthetic Services Helping You SEE Well... LIVE Well... and Even LOOK Well

AIK HUMBLE EYE CENTER IS proud to introduce advanced cosmetic and medical aesthetic services to our practice offerings. Our services are provided in a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere utilizing the latest technology and highly qualified professionals to deliver great results. Our goal is to understand your areas of concern that need to be addressed and recommend the best leading edge treatments that fit your budget. Along with treatments such as injections of Botox and Juvederm, four non-surgical procedures are now available to help you look and feel your best.

LASER HAIR REDUCTION Using a gentle beam of light, the Lumenis LightSheer® can help solve the problem of unwanted hair. The LightSheer® is more than 75% faster than the average hair reduction session, and also features the unique HIT™ and ChillTip™ technologies for pain relief. Treatment takes between 10 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the area being treated. No sedation is required for treatment and there is minimal discomfort, with no downtime after treatments. Additionally, LightSheer® is a smart economical choice, saving you money spent on temporary hair removal solutions. IPL PHOTOREJUVENATION The Lumenis® IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

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photorejuvenation treatment offers visible improvements on a range of skin concerns such as age and sun spots, freckles, rosacea, broken capillaries and overall skin appearance. IPL treatment works with your skin to remove skin imperfections and stimulate collagen and elastic fiber production over a sequence of treatments. A fast “lunch-time” treatment with no downtime. Typically 2 to 6 sessions with 2-4 weeks in between are needed to achieve optimal results for most skin concerns.

ResurFx™ The Lumenis® ResurFx™ fractional laser is a non-ablative skin resurfacing technology for fine lines, skin texture and overall skin appearance. ResurFx is optimally tailored to address even the early signs of aging. This laser stimulates the production of new collagen and elastic fibers in the deeper layers of the skin. Stimulating new collagen production is the key to more radiant, youthful looking skin. Experience minimal downtime in a “lunchtime” treatment and return to your busy lifestyle. Optimal results are achieved after 3 to 5 sessions in 4 to 5 weeks intervals. However, you will continue to see improvements for up to six months following the treatment. VASER® SHAPE VASER Shape is a safe and effective body shaping treatment that can smooth, firm and

shape those troublesome problem areas to give you the body you desire. A non-invasive treatment that combines ultrasound and massage, VASER Shape generally requires 3to 5 treatments with no pain and no downtime. The procedure will smooth and shape your body but it is not a weight loss solution. If you have those problem areas that are resistant to diet and exercise, and are looking for a nonsurgical solution, then ask about VASER Shape today. In addition to non-surgical procedures, Haik Humble Eye Center continues to provide a wide range of cosmetic surgical procedures such as eyelid surgery, laser skin resurfacing and neck liposuction. Whether you are considering the many cosmetic procedures we offer or interested in discussing skin care maintenance, we can assist you in developing a realistic plan to achieve your goals. Safety and your results are of utmost importance for us at Haik Humble Eye Center and we do our best to make sure you have the most experienced doctors and staff working with you every step of the way. For more information on our medical aesthetic services or to schedule an appointment, please call our main office in West Monroe at (318) 325-2610.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

FISHING WITH KENNY

Five Rules to Fight January’s Feast or Famine ARTICLE BY KENNY COVINGTON

If you asked me to tell you the hardest month of the year to catch bass I would tell you without hesitation it is the month of January. I have believed this to be true since I first started fishing tournaments at the age of 13 and even now, I will still admit Januarys can be brutal.

In the world of humans, January is kind of an in between state. It’s no longer Fall, but many times we tend to have warming trends that fool us into thinking that Spring is just around the corner. Our mindset says, “It’s supposed to be cold and here it is 70 degrees outside.” Bass tend to have the same idea, and often times, just like humans, will act accordingly. January can be a very productive for bass fishing if you are aware of certain clues to make your trips more productive. Timing is critical. A couple of warm days can trigger a wave of feeding activity that a keen fisherperson can capitalize on. The fish will take advantage of an increase in water temperature, even if it’s just a few degrees, to seek out an easy meal. This aggressive nature, while short lived, makes them much easier to locate, pattern and catch.

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My number one rule when fishing in January is to find clearer or cleaner water. I avoid muddy water at all costs and if the lake I am wanting to fish has an overabundance of water that resembles chocolate milk, I will simply find another lake with better water quality to fish. Cold water fish tend to feed better in water that is clear, because the clearer water tends to warm up faster. My number two rule when fishing in January is to fish any aquatic vegetation I can find. It can be coontail moss, dying lily pads or even Asian milfoil. If I can find water with some clarity and also have vegetation mixed in with it, you can bet there will be some fish in the area. One of my rules in tournament fishing over the years has always been to fish whatever vegetation a lake has to offer. If you do, you will eventually find fish. My number three rule in January bass

fishing is to keep my lure choices simple. As my tournament partner Lee King says, “Make it a five rod fishing trip” and he is right. I can use a jig, a chatterbait, a Rat L Trap, a crankbait and a shakey head and have the potential to catch fish on any given body of water. All of these lures will allow you to cover the shallowest of water to the deepest depths effectively. My number four rule is to keep my lure colors and sizes as simple as my lure choices. I prefer a small profile 3/8 ounce jig, black/blue with a matching black/blue crawfish trailer. I like a half ounce chatter bait as well, but I will use either a sapphire blue or a black with blue fleck Zoom speed craw as a trailer. When throwing a Rat L Trap, I like red or a crawfish color. The only time I deviate from that is if there is heavy cloud cover and then I like to throw a gold pattern. When it comes to cold water crankbaits, it is hard to beat a firetiger colored Model 6A bomber. This color is equally effective in stained or clear water and just flat out catches fish. I have never been one to call myself a guru at fishing finesse style presentations, but I have done well enough to develop my own set of guidelines. First and foremost when shakey head fishing in colder water, if the wind will allow, use a 1/16th ounce shakey head. The lighter head will actually allow you to slow down and fish the lure more effectively. You can control the fall rate even more by pairing the shakey head with a Zoom trick worm or a finesse worm in either a Candybug or a Green pumpkin/blue color. I have been successful using both size worm sizes, but I have had better luck in clearer water using the finesse worm. And finally rule number five is to search for bodies of water with good water clarity and to help you out with this here are a few suggestions: Claiborne Lake, Caney Lake, Bayou Bartholomew, Lake Bruin and sections of Bayou Desiard are all good choices and have good populations of bass in them. One of the biggest keys to successful fishing in January is to take advantage of the good weather when it happens. Don’t go expecting to fill up your live well, but rather in hopes of catching few nice fish or maybe even the fish of a lifetime. Patience is key and be deliberate with your presentations. Your moving baits will perform better with slow and steady retrieves and the same goes with your bottom bouncing jig and shakey head. Until next month, be careful in the woods and on the water and catch one for me!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Minimally InvasiveThyroid Surgery Brent Metts, M.D., PhD. – Ear, Nose and Throat

HE THYROID GLAND IS A BUTTERFLY-SHAPED endocrine gland located in the lower front of the neck. Hormones released by the gland travel through your bloodstream and affect nearly every part of your body, from your heart and brain to your muscles and skin. Thyroid hormones help the body use energy, stay warm and keep the brain, heart, muscles, and other organs functioning, as they should. It also controls your metabolism (how your body uses energy from food), and how well you burn calories. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) makes fewer hormones than needed for the body to function properly. Symptoms of hypothyroidism may be vague and often mimic other conditions including changes in the menstrual cycle, depression, hair loss, dry skin, greater sensitivity to cold, carpal tunnel syndrome and unexplained weight gain. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can cause goiter, heart problems, infertility and mental health issues. It can also cause birth defects in babies born to mothers with untreated hypothyroidism. An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) makes too much hormone than needed which forces many bodily functions to speed up. Like hypothyroidism, symptoms may be hard to recognize but often include an unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, a low tolerance for heat, excessive sweating, chronic nervousness and moodiness. Without treatment, hyperthyroidism can lead to serious heart problems or bone problems. Patients with thyroid conditions including cancerous or benign thyroid nodules, large thyroid glands (goiters), hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism are candidates for thyroid surgery. Surgery may also be recommended for nodules with benign biopsy results if they are increasing in size that could lead to speech or swallowing difficulties and pain. 30 JANUARY 2016 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

The most modern approaches for performing thyroid surgery are minimally invasive and endoscopic-assisted techniques performed in our area by Dr. Brent Metts. The surgery is easier to undergo and recover from than traditional surgery. Most importantly, it only leaves a tiny scar on the patient's neck. With traditional thyroid surgery, a permanent scar as long as four inches (and sometimes more) is usually very apparent on the necks of patients. Minimally invasive, endoscopic (video) assisted thyroid surgery uses a high definition camera to perform the surgery through a very small incision. The camera provides a magnified view of the thyroid gland and the critical structures nearby. Most of these surgeries are outpatient procedures that take between 30 and 90 minutes. Incisions are closed using a newer, safer method that doesn’t require drains, staples or stitches. After surgery, patients can usually go home in one to two hours and can resume most normal activities the next day. Traditional surgery almost always means a one-night stay in the hospital and a longer recovery period. Dr. Metts is one of the few surgeons in the nation who is fellowship trained in Minimally Invasive and EndoscopicAssisted Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgeries. He also has a Ph.D. in Vestibular Neuroscience. Combined with his medical training in ENT, he specializes in the evaluation of patients with dizziness and equilibrium issues. Other services include Balloon Sinuplasty™, treatment of sinus and thyroid disease, hearing loss, voice care, sleep apnea and dysphagia. Glenwood Ear, Nose, and Throat is located in the Glenwood Medical Mall at 102 Thomas Road, Suite 202 in West Monroe. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Metts, call 318-329-8458. Most insurance are accepted.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Neville High School

Academic and Athletic Excellence NOWN STATEWIDE FOR ITS

traditions of academic and athletic excellence, Neville High School found itself back in New Orleans at the Mercedes Benz Superdome for the LHSAA Non-Select Class 4A State Championship for an extraordinary second year in a row. Living up to their long-standing motto of “Win Today,” the Neville Tigers are made their fifth State Finals appearance in the past seven years in the storied Superdome. Neville High School students, alumni and fans can always count on one thing – football Friday nights (or Saturday afternoons at the Superdome) will never disappoint. Year after year, Neville rises to the top because of their caliber of coaching and conditioning these student athletes are privileged to have. Legendary Neville coaches Charlie Brown, who won three state championships at head coach, and Bill Ruple, who won four state titles during his tenure, have inspired a new generation of Neville coaches and players to create their own legacies and secure their place in the lexicon of Louisiana football. Under the direction of Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Mickey McCarty, the Neville football coaching staff continues the tradition of creating men of character who understand the meaning of hard work and the reward that can bring. The 2015 Neville High School football coaching staff is comprised of McCarty, Benjy Lewis, Matt Dickerson, Eric Herndon, Brett Lemoine, Chris Campbell, Paul Guerrierro, Britton Leggett, Tommy Aitken, Justin Primm, Jeff Gregory, Trey Dozier, Drew Routon, Allen Wise, Chad Johnson and Anthony Devoil, along with head athletic trainer Brad Hill and stadium

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supervisor Mike Talley. Says Neville offensive lineman and senior Blaze van Buren, who loves nothing more than to leave it all on the field with his buddies, “I appreciate the coaches at Neville, because they work harder than any other coaching staff around. We are always prepared on the field, because our coaches put in so much time studying our opponents. My coaches at Neville have not only taught me the game but taught me how to grow into a better person all around.” The feeling of belonging and a sense of family is what NHS athletic secretary Joy Carlson says makes “you feel like you are making a difference” in the lives of so many in the Neville athletic department. For ULM student and NHS alumni Bradley Myers, who assists trainer Brad Hill on the sidelines, the 2015 championship makes his fourth time visiting the Superdome with Neville in the state finals, twice as a NHS student trainer and twice as a volunteer/intern. Myers says, “Working for NHS coaches and trainers has been a lot of fun, developing strong relationships with everyone. These guys seem to find the perfect balance between keeping things light and having a good time and knowing when it’s time to be serious and get to work.” The entire community is has rallied around Neville’s football team and is now reveling in its success. To celebrate the Tigers’ 16th trip to the Louisiana State Football Championship since Neville opened in 1931, Monroe mayor Jamie Mayor proclaimed the week of December 6-12 as Neville Tiger Football Week in Monroe. The proclamation states, “The 2015 Neville High

School football team is keeping that Tiger tradition alive; defending their Class 4A Championship with impressive and often dominating regular and postseason victories; and whereas, this has been an exciting, hard-fought, and successful season, and we are proud of the record you have earned and the pride you have brought to our community by your outstanding team play.” Accepting the proclamation on behalf of the Neville Nation were Neville Principal Whitney Martin, Athletic Director and Head Coach Mickey McCarty and Monroe City Schools Superintendent Brent Vidrine. Says Coach McCarty, "The greatest accomplishment of our staff just may be team work by example. Our staff works very well together to prepare our team. I think that rubs off on the players as they see us working for a common goal and doing so as a unified force." Of his talented team, McCarty adds, "Our players are motivated to keep the bar of excellence raised to a high standard for Neville. They do not want to be known as the team that let it come down. Our rich tradition motivates them to achieve and win!" "As a coach," says McCarty, "your legacy lives on more in the players you have coached, more so than the trophies in the case. To instill in them qualities like work ethic, team work, accountability, toughness, attitude and being a winner is priceless for the rest their lives. I hope we are planting those seeds daily in our program that will take root for many future years of their lives."

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

A. ALDEN’S MEMO

A NEW YOU IN 2016 Dallas and Atlanta based sales representative for Reeves & Company, Analeise Reeves Thomas, shares her beauty, health and wellness secrets.

The things you do for your body affect your skin, the things you do for your skin affect your body and all of these things affect your overall health and wellbeing. I may not have a perfect diet, a perfect workout routine or the perfect skincare regimen, but I do know that all of these things work in conjunction with each other for a healthier, more beautiful me. With a new year approaching, we all want to get back on track where we’ve faltered over this past year and we all certainly need encouragement from each other to get there. Below are my tips and secrets for staying healthy, beautiful and somewhat fit.

BEAUTY

My number one key to good skin is to drink lots of water. I notice drastic changes in the elasticity, color and moisture level of my skin when I’ve been drinking Coca-Cola or wine- it’s not near as tight and my pores always appear larger. I love to carry my water in my precious blue ikat print S’well bottle (available at the Muﬃn Tin in Monroe). My go-to moisturizer is La Mer’s “Creme de la Mer”- it’s great especially in the dry winter months. I lean on Jennifer Brown at Hopkins Dermatology to keep my skin looking fresh and youthful. I have a really furry face (the women in my family call me their sweet fuzzy peach) so I love for Jennifer to dermaplane my skin once a month- it not only makes your skin smoother and exfoliated, but it also allows for my foundation to go on more evenly. Speaking of foundation, I love Revlon’s “ColorStay 24hr foundation” for nights out when I want to look extra polished. Otherwise, I just use Garnier’s “Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfecter Cream” during the day for subtle coverage and a “from within” glow. If you’re just hanging around the house, DO NOT put on makeup- your skin needs to breathe and recharge every now and then. Blake Mason at Rain Salon is my hair genius and always makes me feel more beautiful- there really is nothing like a fresh haircut and a few highlights to brighten up your look. If you’re feeling like your hair is a bit dull, explain to your stylist that you want to look more alive and vibrant. They usually suggest highlights concentrated around your face to give you a more youthful look. During the “sandal months” I get a pedicure once a month. I typically do my ﬁngernails at home and stick to a manicure only once every 6 weeks to take care of my cuticles.

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HEALTH

Anyone that knows me knows that I hate dieting and am not a huge proponent of it. Through my later years in high school and first couple of years in college, I did a lot of yoyo dieting- I had been so active in high school with cheerleading and track that once I stopped all of that physical activity, I started to gain weight. The South Beach diet was my best friend for about 11 days every 3 months- I’d lose 8 pounds and gain back 10. One summer I was a vegan- bad decision. I literally hated life and my mom basically told me I had to eat a piece of meat or she was cutting me off (not really, but it got pretty bad). I say all of that to say this- diets are great if you can stick to them and make a lifestyle change. If you can’t, then don’t. I love sweets too much to ever permanently give up carbs and cheese too much to ever be a vegan again. My rule of thumb is to treat yourself- a world without chocolate (make sure it’s dark for a healthy heart) is not a world to be lived in. When I try my best to make smart food choices, I usually do. And when I fall off the wagon, I try to catch myself and make a change. Everything in moderation truly is the best manta and as long as you’re eating plenty of fruits and veggies, eating lean protein and drinking lots of water, odds are you will be able to maintain a healthy weight.

WELLNESS

Before my wedding in November, my husband, brother, father and I all started working out with our now dear friend, John Blunschi at Gorilla Fitness in West Monroe. His high-intensity workouts are great for someone like me with an athletic and competitive background. We usually start on the StairMaster at a very high level and then complete a series of timed and repbased intervals. When I leave each day, I truly feel like I've accomplished something huge! I also enjoy power walking (sometimes running) first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon. Fitness experts say that fast-paced walking burns more fat in a short amount of time than most other exercises. I really notice a change in my legs (mostly my thighs) when I stay regimented with my daily walks/runs. Walking is so great for any age and any fitness level. It not only is wonderful for your bodily health, it also is a great way to clear your mind after a tiring day. Another way to wind down and relax is through a deep tissue massage. The best kept secret in Monroe is Lisa at A Bodyworks Massage and Spa in the garden district. I go to her after each one of my markets (about 20 per year) to de-stress and get my body in line. Massage is so great for your skin as well as a natural detoxifier.

Eat to Lose

Start the New Year Off Right with Help from Andi Holyfield

HE NEW YEAR PROVIDES A FRESH START AND A NEW opportunity to commit to a healthier lifestyle. With Andi Holyfield’s Eat to Lose program, Laura and Gary Culp not only made lasting changes that improve their health and well-being, but also exceeded their weight loss goals. The couple sought Andi’s help after Gary was diagnosed with diabetes. They were both concerned about his health and knew that they would need assistance to follow the doctor’s orders of weight loss and exercise. For Gary, it was a daunting and frustrating task. “My family has a history of diabetes,” he explains. “I was mad at myself. I hate medicine. It made me feel horrible. They all have side effects…I was determined to get my numbers in line and get off the pills as soon as possible.” Beyond losing weight, Gary had issues associated with his condition that were of great concern. His blood sugar would spike multiple times a day and cause painful headaches that interfered with his ability to follow his daily routine. Andi was able to assist Gary with this, as well as losing the extra pounds. Her education on nutrition was able to help him alter his eating habits and eliminated spikes in blood sugar and the headaches. “After I followed Andi’s plan, my blood sugar was much more stable and the headaches went away. My metabolism increased, my weight dropped, I had increased energy and felt better,” says Gary. “My doctor said I was borderline for blood pressure medication. That subject no longer comes up at doctor visits.” Gary was also able to eliminate medications that were once necessary. Andi’s personalized plan gave Gary the tools to take control of his health and make the changes his way. Luckily, Gary had the support of his wife Laura on his journey to better health. Laura also followed Andi’s plan and has been pleased with the results. “We tell people about Andi all the time. I always tell them her plan is the easiest one I have ever tried, and I have tried so many,” says Laura. “I am so glad we called her. This is a plan you can live with. I hate to cook, but her ideas and tips for meal preparation made it easy to put nu36 JANUARY 2016 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

tritious meals on the table quickly. Since we both work full time, meal prep was key to keeping us on track.” Eat to Lose is a six -week weight loss program for children and adults that is personalized to suit your individual lifestyle and authentic food cravings. This successful, customized program educates patients to make informed choices, understand nutrition labels, enjoy their favorite restaurants, consider portions, and manage food cravings. With over seventeen years of expertise, Andi has assisted countless adults and children to develop lasting, healthier eating habits. Whether the goal is to reduce the risk of heart disease, lose weight or so simply make more nutritious choices, Eat to Lose works. The program not only helps patients to meet their own personal goals, but like the Culp’s results, can also reduce medications associated with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and reflux. Losing weight with Andi’s customized program is straightforward and sensible. She offers programs for individuals and couples, as well as corporate wellness diet plans where employees can participate in groups and individually through a live webinar and computer applications. Businesses that participate encourage their employees to live a healthier, more productive lifestyle in the office and beyond and can provide incentives for employees to achieve results. Often, insurance providers offer discounts on premiums as health goals are met, which can save employers and employees in benefits related costs. Gary Culp appreciates Andi’s individualized program and the results it brings. “Andi is the best source of help with nutrition,” says Gary. “She is very knowledgeable and condenses the information so even a child can understand. I highly recommend the Eat to Lose program.” Start taking steps toward a more healthful lifestyle today. With your customized plan from Eat to Lose, you can lose weight, gain confidence and change your health for the better. Call or text Andi Holyfield at (318) 348-3120, or visit www.eattolose.net to email Andi to begin your journey today! If you are considering the gastric sleeve or lap band please see AMAZON: Eat to Lose Bariatric Guide Book by Andi Holyfield LDN, R.D.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Bayou Pages NIGHTSTANDS & COFFEE TABLES THREEâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;MEMORABLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;MEMOIRS RE VIEWS BY MIC HAEL DEVA ULT

s the old adage goes, everyone has a story to tell. Whether that story is happy or sad, cautionary or inspiring, depends as much on the teller as it does the events as they happened. At the same time, there's a certain comfort in curling up in other people's memories, a confirmation that, no matter what we've been through, what we're going through, someone else has been there. It's one of the reasons memoirs have endured as one of the more popular forms of nonfiction for decades. Sometimes, the memoirs are famous people behaving badly, but we relish the gritty details of their lives. When events are sad, we find empathy. Even in the mundane, there is comfort in knowing that our favorite singer enjoys knitting and Grey's Anatomy. Now that the holidays are behind you, maybe you have a few minutes to spare. It's as good a time as any to get acquainted with the lives of others. And who knows? Maybe you'll find inspiration to share your own story along the way. Here's a selection of three popular memoirs we think you won't be able to forget.

The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls A contemporary classic, Jeanette Walls's The Glass Castle chronicles the Walls family as they move from town to town, often under the cloak of darkness. It seems Rex Walls isn't quite all he could be, and his frequent cons, binge drinking and pipe dreams

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of a successful and secure future aren't enough to support his wife and their two children. Faced with the challenges of growing up impoverished, the Walls children's imaginations flourish, even as they bounce from tenement to trailer to rented camper to, eventually, the home of poor relations in West Virginia. Readers will revel in Walls' eventual escape from poverty and her ultimate success as a journalist. In the end, we're just a little bit surprised, and more than a little ashamed, that our judgmental natures have shone through, when Walls reveals the true secret of The Glass Castle.

The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid by Bill Bryson Fans of Bill Bryson are no doubt familiar with his biting wit, his British charm and his sometimes caustic observations about all things life. For some, though, learning that our favorite British essayist is actually a boy from Des Moines, Iowa. Bryson is, after all, the son of famed sports writer Bill Bryson, Sr., who--as Bryson recalls--happened to be at the 1951 World's Series where he witnessed Bobby Thompson's grand slam, the famous "shot heard round the world." With a master's touch, Bryson turns his powers of prose to coming of age in Des Moines during the 1950s and 1960s, a turbulent time rendered somehow manageable and inspiring by American exceptionalism, science fiction, and the amazing social and technological leaps of the era.

At once a wide-eyed vision of the possibilities of youth and an adult foreigner's look at the curious parental habits of midcentury America, The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid will leave you pining for the good ol' days and thankful you escaped them without (more) scars. Drinking: A Love Story by Caroline Knapp Memoirs of the drinking life are hardly a novel idea, with writers from Hunter S. Thompson to Tucker Max touching on the topic. Few writers, though, handle the topic with the honesty and insights of Caorline Knapp, a well-bred, socially positioned New England woman who grew up in a world of "liquid armor." Moving through the perils of adolescence to college years, Knapp takes no prisoners while talking about the attraction and perils of alcohol and how quickly liquid armor slides into liquid escapism. A journalist by trade and training--she graduated from Brown, after all--she outlines her path to rock bottom and her slow climb back, rehab at 36, and the insights that pulled her through. Drinking: A Love Story is as much a memoir about learning to cope as it is about coming back from the edge. With hints of Carrie Fisher's Postcards from the Edge, you'll appreciate the ringside seat to Knapp's love affair and breakup from alcohol.

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Holidays in CedarTown Cedar Creek School Continues A Tradition for North Central Louisiana

OLIDAYS IN CEDARTOWN ONCE AGAIN OFFERED area communities the perfect venue for holiday shopping along with an opportunity to enjoy several special events. Sunny Moon, long time committee member states, "We are so grateful for the ongoing generous support of our sponsors which allows us to continue this tradition for North Central Louisiana." In its 26th year, the market opened with the Holiday Brunch Blitz sponsored by Origin Bank, Hood Companies and LPI. The sold out private shopping event featured live music and tasty brunch treats. The menu included unique and flavorful roasted butternut squash soup provided by Campatori Catering and Chef John Shirley, along with scrumptious shrimp and grits from Crumbs Catering and Chefs Jodie Bimle Morphew and Olivia Stinson. KaCee's Sugar and Spice with Morgan Garrison created an amazing table-scape that included everything from sweet treats to decadent cheeses and Ponchatoulas served pasta salad and their renowned bread pudding. La Bamba spiced up brunch with heuvos rancheros and Newk's Eatery of Ruston provided chicken salad and pimento cheese croissants. Of course, no brunch would be complete without coffee, which was graciously provided by Parish Press. The Brunch Blitz also featured cooking demonstrations by Crumb's Catering and KaCee's Sugar and Spice. For the third consecutive year, Holidays After Hours offered guests an evening that included after hours shopping. Guests enjoyed a relaxing shopping experience that included live music, door prizes and complimentary appetizers from area restaurants. Shoppers sampled everything from sushi to dessert with some pizza, shrimp and grits and loaded nachos in between. Special thanks to Iron Cactus, Jarrell's Specialty Foods and Catering, Portico, Raw, Roma Italian Bistro and Social Bites. Bash Booth was on site all day Thursday to take crazy photos offering a fun and engaging venue 40 JANUARY 2016 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

for guests to make memories with friends and family! Holidays in CedarTown continued through Saturday offering fabulous shopping along with record breaking crowds. As in previous years, area educators were treated to complimentary admission on Saturday,which is just our way of saying thank you. Special congratulations goes to Silpada Designs Jewelry for winning the "Best of Market" booth competition and to Kathy Miller, the winner of the Apple Watch raffle. Both children and adults enjoyed the Pirates and Princesses event on Saturday afternoon complete with magic wands and gold doubloons along with delightful treats compliments of Dairy Queen Grill and Chill, KaCee's Sugar and Spice, Kona Ice and House of Flowers/The Cake Shop. The little ones also enjoyed creating crowns and pirate eye patches with the staff from the North Central Louisiana Arts Council. Kelly Smith and Heather Busby served as co-chairs for this year's market. Smith states, " We are extremely blessed to have the ongoing support of our sponsors and area businesses. Their participation and generosity along with our merchants, volunteers and of course our shoppers contributed to the overwhelming success of Holidays in CedarTown," Busby added. "CedarTown is truly a community event and we are delighted that we can continue to offer this opportunity to our friends and neighbors in North Louisiana!" Be sure to save the date for Holidays In CedarTown 2016, celebrating 27 years of holiday shopping! â&#x20AC;&#x201C; November 10th, 11th and 12th For merchant and event information, contact Cedar Creek School at 318.255.7707 Cedar Creek School practices an open nondiscriminatory admission policy.

3 We welcome the New Year with a rosy outlook on life. These items from area boutiques represent one of Pantone’s Colors of the year for 2016 – Rose Quartz.

15 13

14 1. The Stork’s Nest 2. Pearce Pharmacy 3. Haik Humble Eye Center 4. Elements 5. Material Things 6. Hollis & Company Jewelers 7. Sleepy Hollow Furniture 8. MD Minerals 9. Thurman’s Food Factory and Gifts 10. Louisiana Purchases 11. K-Sera Boutique 12. Fiesta Nutrition Center 13. Sue Paperie 14. The Children’s Shoppe 15. If the Crown Fits

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WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Health

Meredith’s Musings I Don’t Need Your Numbers BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE

childhood friend of mine recently gave birth for the first time. This is an odd dynamic, as I feel I have three groups of friends. One group did their birthing ten plus years ago, others are just getting around to it, and the third turns their noses up at the conventional institution of parenthood. Having for the last ten years been a part of the latter group and only recently come around to the idea of wanting kids, I clearly have mixed emotions about the whole process. But as a fringe outsider, I’m observing everything with a newfound curiosity that I didn’t have a decade ago. I hope/fear/hope this will be me in the near future. So imagine my surprise when said first-time mother friend didn’t know how much weight she’d gained during her pregnancy. She refused to know. The nurse came in post-birth and requested her starting

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weight, and she simply shrugged her shoulders. Turns out, at every doctor’s appointment for the entire nine months of gestation, she had mounted the dreaded scale backwards and threatened the unsuspecting nurse holding the chart to keep the dreaded number to herself. She had no clue. She got bigger. She bought new clothes. She avoided social situations for the last few months, but as far as a number, she’s clueless. The post-birth nurse simply stared at her when she uttered, “I don’t need your numbers.” How liberating, and it got me thinking, how many other numbers could we ditch and thus lower our stress levels? In my teen years, where I was always the pudgy one, though not until junior year of high school becoming the obese one, I dreaded numbers. I avoided the scale all together, which was not difficult considering my mother kept it downstairs in her walkin closet, and my room was an entire floor

away. Even if I had had the sudden urge to know my number, I would have talked myself out of it by the time I reached the bottom step and turned to ascend the stairs with my newfound confidence in refusing to depress myself. As one who fluctuated in weight, I now have all these clothes with the tags cut out, no idea what size they are. I didn’t need a once weekly reminder that I was a twelve. What’s a twelve? I refused to be defined by a scale or a tag or a doubledigit number. A few summers ago I was in California visiting my sister. We went out to lunch, just the two of us. I remember it fondly as the lunch I fell in love with mojitos, but it was also a battle of numbers. And I’m not talking two limes or three. The menu had calorie counts beside each selection. I wanted a burger. I had been craving a burger. I had even skipped the bacon at breakfast in anticipation of my burger. But the burger was almost 900 calories. Imagine my shock! It was the only burger on the menu, and it looked delicious. I immediately started editing in my head. What could I remove from this burger to drop 300 calories? But the sacrifice wasn’t worth the headache, and I settled on fish, the 450 calorie grilled fish. And with every fishy bite soaked in mango salsa, I was just wishing I could morph that fish into cow meat. The darn numbers are the same reason I have yet to order a single food item from my favorite coffee shop, less you count a cake pop for a child I had in tow, notably the lowest calorie count in the clear bakery box due to it being the size of a walnut on a stick. So much like my liberated, forward thinking, stubborn, “I won’t play by your pregnancy rules” friend, I also don’t need your numbers. You can keep your weight numbers, sizes, measurements, percentages, BMI charts and calorie counts. Don’t let being a single, part of a couple, or Godforbid, the third wheel make you feel less than someone defined by another number. If numbers gratify you in some way or serve to define progress, have at it. And if it comes to that, perhaps I’ll revisit them. But for now, we’re on a break.

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ganizing! I like to work from another space or room where it is easier to sort items. 5. Begin creating your vision. Break each part of the project down into smaller steps and begin returning everything to the room/area, only this time, making organized changes. 6. Put your final touch on the project. Maybe the final touch is a beautiful plant or a memorable picture. Infuse your own style into everything you do. THIRD, DEVELOP THE PERSISTENCE TO KEEP YOUR SYSTEM GOING. This is the hard part – it means creating a change in your habits and, therefore, forming new habits. You must use self-discipline to get you through this step in the organizing process.

ask erin ORGANIZING RESOLUTIONS FOR 2016 by Erin Sharplin Love

ach year, Real Simple Magazine, lists “getting organized” as one of the top five resolutions people make. After all, just starting the organizing process is daunting to most people, and staying organized seems even more overwhelming. Between our careers and our families, there seems little time for anything else! But here is the good news: THERE IS TIME! You just need to make the commitment, understand the process and then develop the persistence to keep the system going. Let me help.

FIRST, MAKE THE COMMITMENT. I can’t make the commitment for you, but I can give you about three good reasons getting organized will pay off in the long run! 1. Getting organized will save you time! Think about all of the time you waste searching for things – keys, wallet, receipts, that one certain jar top…the list can go on. 2. Getting organized will save you money! How many times have you repurchased an item you thought you lost only to find it when you get home? This happens a lot with food and toiletries. 3. Getting organized will save your sanity! How stressful are your mornings? Imagine

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the bliss of starting the day with a perfectly organized home. SECOND, UNDERSTAND THE PROCESS. As with every other endeavor, there is a process you should follow when organizing your home. Below are the steps that I always use when I take on an organizing job for a client. 1. Assess your work spaces. Determine if the routine you have now is really working. If what you are doing isn’t making things easier and saving time, ask yourself where you can make changes and how you can streamline the tasks you perform each day. 2. Make a plan. If you could design the “perfect” kitchen, bathroom, playroom, etc., what would they look like and how would having such an organized home give you more time and personal satisfaction? Think about it and then start putting this plan into action! Actually designing something on paper will make changes easier to implement. 3. Go shopping. I always try to imagine what I will need for an organizing project and make sure I am prepared. The fewer stops I have to make during the process the better. 4. Create a clean slate. In other words, remove everything from the space you are or-

TEN CHANGES YOU CAN MAKE RIGHT NOW: Once you see the changes these simple steps can make, hopefully you will be inspired to keep going. 1. Change your hangers so that all match! I prefer clear, heavy-duty, plastic hangers. They are durable and create a boutique-like atmosphere in your closet. 2. Go through that stack of mail and stop it from happening again. Get in the habit of going through your mail immediately upon entering your home. Place a trash can or shredder next to the door you typically enter, trash all junk mail and then place the rest in a pretty basket. 3. Gather all loose shoes and place them in a decorative tray. I leave one next to the back door and by the side door that we use the most. 4. Organize your junk drawer. We all have one; it just needs to be a bit more organized so that you can actually find what you need, when you need it. Make sure it contains only important, useable items, though. 5. Clear the floor in each of your closets. To do this, look at the vertical space you have that isn’t being fully utilized. For instance, can you add a shelf extender to the top shelf of the closet? Is there a hanging rod with room to hold a three or six shelf sweater organizer? (Hint – I use sweater organizers to organize everything from shoes, to jeans, to towels, to cleaning supplies!) (CONTINUED ON PAGE 93)

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SIMPLE ELEGANCE In hand-blown glass vases courtesy of Haven, designer Gregory Hudgins has artfully arranged Acacia nilotica (thorn tree) branches and interspersed delicate blooms of Hellebores niger (Lenton rose) for a startlingly simple arrangement full of contrasts. PHOTOGRAPH BY MARTIN G MEYERS

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ERASING THE HOLIDAYS Step back from the table, put away the leftovers and get serious about those New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resolutions with these tips to overcome the battle of the post-holiday bulge. Our experts weigh in on how you can successfully shed the lingering effects of the holiday.

article by Michael DeVault

's January. The company has gone home, the last of the turkey has been turned to soup stock and still you have that one last nagging reminder of those good times. If only putting away those extra pounds and new smile lines were as easy as packing away the tree or taking down the Christmas lights! We all fall victim to the pattern. From late November until New Year's Day, we overindulge on food and drink and we ease up on visiting the gym, effectively dealing our metabolisms and our waistlines a one-two punch. By the time we step back onto the scales January 2nd, we've gained ten or fifteen extra pounds--and we didn't need a scale to tell us that, either. Chances are, we're showing the signs on our faces and necks. With a little hard work, diligence, and a bit of planning we can undo the damage. This year, BayouLife reaches out to three experts for their tips on erasing those last, lingering signs of the holidays. Whether it's pumping up the

bruised ego with a bit of carefully applied makeup or jumpstarting the metabolism by renewing that diet and exercise regimen, these tips will help you undo the damage dealt by the holidays.

LOOKING THE PART

Let's be frank. Part of the drive to knock off those extra pounds is so that we'll look our best. But packing on the winter pounds starts and ends in the same place--the face. It's hard to get motivated to lose a few when there's a plump reminder of that extra slice of pecan pie staring back in the mirror. It's a struggle professional stylist and makeup artist Meka Bennett is all too familiar with it. A self-proclaimed "plump faced girl," Bennett understands the emotional effect the extra weight can have. "Whenever I gain weight, it comes to my face first and then it goes down into my neck," Bennett says. She encourages women to take heart, though, because with just a little out-of-the-box thinking and judicious use of makeup techniques, you

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grow it out. And if it's longer already, she cautions to steer clear of the scissors, at least for now. Meanwhile, pay close attention to color choices for hair and makeup. "Once we go into the Fall and Winter, we tend to gravitate toward the deeper richer plums and mauves, the holiday lipsticks in particular. On the runway, there was the trend of the barely there," says Bennett. While the artists are applying lots of makeup, the overall effect is that the models aren't wearing makeup. "I call it a whole lot of nothing, which is kind of my signature look." A bold choice for lipstick is still quite possible, even given the minimalist look. Plums and reds are all the rage, and they're a good, solid foundation for Spring and Summer, too. Bennett acknowledges that many women may be uncomfortable with the whole lot of nothing look and additional contouring. But, Bennett says, stepping outside the box is important. "Be brave; be daring. Don't be afraid to try a color you've never tried before," she says.

BECOME THE PART

can add slimming depth to your face and neck and minimize those lingering holiday holdovers. "You can add to your face and take away from your face with a little bit of light and a little bit of shadowing," Bennett says. The practice, called contouring, has long been a staple of professional makeup artists and industry insiders. However, these days its become more mainstream. "A lot of companies have created a contour and highlight palette," Bennett points out. Combining complementing light and dark tones, contouring palettes afford wearers the opportunity to increase shadows and highlights, which helps stimulate a sense of depth,

an important step to minimizing the extra weight. "That contour and highlight palette will be your best friend." Hair plays an important part, too. While shorter hair styles may be all the rage, not everyone can sport the pixie Emma Watson or the smartly bobbed Victoria Beckham. Even women who normally look fabulous in short hair can start to feel a bit out of sorts once the holidays pass and the time comes to shed a few pounds. "I think bangs, like a long, swooping bang, maybe not at the chin level or at the cheek level but higher, can help take away from that puffiness we tend to see," Bennett says. "Anytime you have length to your hair, it elongates your face." If you have shorter hair, now's the time to

"You can add to your face and take away from your face with a little bit of light and a little bit of shadowing."

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Now that you're looking the part, it's time for the rest of you to catch up. That means kicking off the lazy, throwing on the yoga pants and a sweatshirt, and heading to the gym. For personal trainer Jeannanne McGregor, the first months of the year are always a busy time, and almost universally, she sees the same thing. "People swarm to the gym," she says. The slow slide begins well before Thanksgiving. "They might get into the gym every once in a while. Then, it starts piling on. They're not counting calories, the diet goes out the door and then there goes the workout. Before you know it, you've gained five to ten extra pounds in two months," she says. She sees this in her regular clients, most of whom are quite health conscious and pay attention to their diets. The effect is magnified in those without a regular regimen. "Sometimes throughout the year, you'll gain weight and tell yourself you'll do better. But it keeps creeping up and hanging around," McGregor says. Undoing this kind of damage takes radical action. Propelled by New Year's resolutions, people begin to attack the problem with enthusiasm, and that's an important motivator. But it's not just about working out. McGregor says there is a major component people have to embrace early on: a strict diet. "Cut out all calories that you're consuming by liquid form," McGregor says. That includes soft drinks, alcohol, fruit juices and anything else we drink that is calorie rich. That'll mean

MAINTAINING THE PART

fewer trips to Starbucks and commitment when the waiter asks what you'd like to drink. Once the diet is on your radar, it's time to start working out again. "Try to get as much time in cardio exercise as possible," McGregor says. Treadmills, stationary bicycles, the ellipticals, are all important. Jogging and aerobics help, too. And make sure to include weight training and flexibility training, as well." Failing to incorporate range of motion exercises and resistive weights for muscle toning are some of the biggest mistakes people make. "After every session of whatever you do fitness wise, you need to be stretching for ten to fifteen minutes, men and women." While many benefit from the availability and resources in a gym and with personal trainers, McGregor realizes it's not something that everyone has access to. For those individuals, she recommends jogging and traditional calisthenics. Pushups, sit-ups and planking are all effective forms of resistive weight training that rely on body weight for resistance. Start with the most basic, the pushup. "See how many you can do each night before bed," McGregor says. "You don't really have to leave your house to do some basic body weight exercises to strengthen and tone your muscles." Eventually, though, we all reach a point where we can use the services of a personal trainer and benefit from the equipment in the gym. Personal trainers also help maintain a consistent schedule and accountability. You're much less likely to skip that workout if you know your trainer is waiting for you. Whatever path you chose, gym or home workout, McGregor urges that you balance your workout. Do some research on not overworking certain areas. The zone workout is dead and, in its place is the whole body workout. Be sure to work legs, arms and midsection equally. Front and back are equally important for both aesthetic and health reasons. "If you did nothing but bicep exercises, what happens to your triceps? They become so uneven it creates injury," McGregor says.

We've lost the extra pounds, we've transformed our hair, and our colors are up to date. But still, there's just something...off. Our skin isn't right and abuses from our past are starting to show through. Take heart, says Dr. Janine Hopkins. There are steps you can take to undo some of those past mistakes, and it doesn't have to be traumatic. Part of the end result has to be recognizing what we're doing early on and taking early action. Start immediately using sunscreen anytime you're going to be in the sun. Exfoliate regularly. Add retinoids to your skin care regimen, and incorporate antioxidants, which help protect skin against the aging effects of free radicals. No matter what age you are, Hopkins says these steps help restore skin and prevent further damage. It's good advice year round, but in January, after the holidays, many times we start seeing the effects of overindulgence. One particular culprit rises above all others: sugar. Sugar is the enemy, leading to blotchy skin, bloated appearance, and breakouts. "Sugar is the worst thing you can do for your skin. Avoid sugar," she says. For some, though, maintenance and prevention may not be enough to restore their skin to its fullest potential. For those individuals, Hopkins recommends Botox, fillers, and laser treatments. Beginning at age 35, Botox helps prevent the kinds of keep lines and wrinkles that exaggerate aging. Fillers provide volume and help restore symmetry, and laser treatments will help restore and rejuvenate the skin's surface. And remember: earlier is better. "It's not about waiting until it looks like you need something," Hopkins says. "You want to do something before it's too late."

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sugar is the worst thing you can do for your skin. Avoid sugar.â&#x20AC;?

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Pearce Pharmacy Open House The famous popcorn, drinks and snacks were provided to the city of Bastrop as many friends and family came out to Pearce Pharmacy for their annual Open House November 15th. Excitement filled the air, as people shopped and visited with one another. Pearce Pharmacy had a great turn out and they were able to see many of their loyal customers, as well as some new faces.

On the BayouScene

1 Meghan and Madison Risinger 2 Kim Whorton, Jean Whorton and Debbie Wilson 3 Melissa Pruitt and Linda Davis 4 April Fitch, Caleigh Bridges, Bailey Philley and Paulette Eubanks 5 Caren Walker and Jodi Ford 6 Teresa Pearce, Sherry Hattaway, Linda Johnston and Kelly Greenwood

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An Evening at the Oscars

Cancer Foundation League Gala Set for Saturday, February 27th

HE CANCER FOUNDATION LEAGUE (CFL) WOULD like to invite you to walk the red carpet for An Evening at the Oscars right here in our hometown! When you walk the carpet, you’ll experience the flashing lights from the paparazzi as you enter the West Monroe Convention Center. On Saturday, February 27, 2016, An Evening at the Oscars is the only event to be a part of. Your ticket to walk to red carpet includes fabulous food, drinks and the opportunity to dance the night away to the sounds of Stretta Band out of Nashville, TN. Stretta Band has played at many high profile shows over the last few years, including the City of Nashville's Fourth of July Bash and as an opening act for Bruce Springsteen at the Meadowlands in New Jersey. Recently, Stretta also performed along side Jason Aldean, Chris Young, Mandisa from American Idol and the one and only Garth Brooks. The band will keep the party alive and kicking with the music from the 50's to current day hits. There will be a live auction with several chances to bid on vacation getaways, hunts and even luxury items for yourself! The CFL’s famous “Champagne and Diamonds” raffle will be featured as well. A glass of champagne may be purchased for a chance to take home a sparkling treasure! If sparkles aren’t your thing, then take a chance in winning a mystery gift box, with each box containing a fabulous prize! Dress to the nines, be a star at the Oscars and join us in helping us meet our mission of offering financial assistance to Northeast Louisiana cancer patients undergoing treatment. Tickets are $100 each and can be purchased from the Cancer Foundation League office by calling 318-966-1953. Tickets will also be available at Albritton Photography, Magic Grill West Monroe and The Coffee Bean. An Evening at the Oscars is followed by the Cancer Foundation League golf classic, “Theresa Marsala Memorial” which will be held in May 2016. For more information about the golf tournament, please contact the CFL office at 966-1953. For further information on An Evening at the Oscars gala, any other CFL events or the Cancer Foundation League in general, please visit our website: www.cancerfoundationleague.com or find us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/cancerfoundationleague. We will see you on the red carpet!

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Making Life Happen

Talks on Tower to be Held Thursday, January 14th

OPA, LOUISIANA ORGAN PROCUREMENT AGENCY, is Louisiana’s federally designated Organ Procurement Organization, or OPO. LOPA is tasked with recovering donor organs and tissue for transplantation, along with housing and maintaining Louisiana’s Donor Registry. LOPA works strenuously to educate Louisiana’s population about the necessity of registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor. LOPA’s Core Purpose is “Making Life Happen.” LOPA is part of a statewide initiative named Donate Life Louisiana. Donate Life Louisiana is a collaboration of LOPA, eye banks, transplant centers and others committed to donation and transplantation. Donate Life Louisiana’s collective mission and call to action is to create trust, save and enhance lives, and positively impact the number of Louisiana citizens in the donor registry through education, awareness and leadership. The team works together to accomplish this through various education, outreach and advocacy programs throughout the state of Louisiana. Currently, more than 123,000 individuals are awaiting an organ transplant in the United States. In Louisiana alone, more than 2,000 people are waiting for a life-saving organ transplant. A single donor has the potential to save nine lives, give two people sight through cornea donation, and heal the lives of 50 or more people through tissue donation. To register as a donor, visit www.donatelifela.org, or for more information about LOPA, please visit www.lopa.org. You can say YES to donation when asked at your local Office of Motor Vehicles, or you can register by phone by calling LOPA Metairie headquarters at 800.521.GIVE (4483). Listen to LOPA’s informative and entertaining biweekly podcast, The Gifted Life, at: www.lopa.org/podcast, or search for The Gifted Life on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Follow Donate Life Louisiana on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date on their statewide drive to register more organ, eye and tissue donors! St. Francis Medical Center is proud to celebrate and honor its heroes – those who gave the gift of life through organ and tissue donation – through recognition on the Wall of Heroes located at the downtown campus. The Wall of Heroes includes the stories and pictures of people in our region who made the choice to help someone continue their life. The Wall of Heroes was established in 2014 in an effort for St. Francis to partner with LOPA and pay special tribute to “heroes” who will live on in others because they gave the ultimate gift – the gift of life.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

FNB Christmas Open House First National Bank hosted a Christmas Open House at their new location at the corner of North 18th Street and Hudson Lane on Thursday, December 10. Visitors mixed and mingled and enjoyed refreshments including wine from Southern Beverage Company. First National Bank has locations in Arcadia, Farmerville, Ruston, Monroe and West Monroe.

On the BayouScene

1 Dawne Walsworth, Bridget Dawson and Clay Hipp 2 Joe Domingos, Mike McGee and Anne Lockhart 3 Ashley Doughty, Jay Johnson and Jennifer Johnson 4 Justin Higdon, Tammy and Dale Cagnolatti 5 Vikram Singh and Simran Emaus 6 Gary Hampton, Amanda Thompson, Victoria Lindsey and Mike Walsworth

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Ovation Women’s Wellness

Bladder Health During and Beyond the Childbearing Years BY ANNIE JOPLING, WHNP

OR WOMEN BEYOND CHILDBEARING YEARS, LIFE CAN be hectic. It can be a challenge to maintain good bladder health while caring for a busy, active family. I want to encourage women who see changes in body image and function after carrying and delivering your children. There is hope! First, maintaining a healthy weight is important for prevention of bothersome symptoms like urgency, frequency and urinary leakage. I recommend a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins while avoiding processed foods. Obesity is a risk factor for all lower urinary tract symptoms so developing a habit of regular or daily exercise is a key to returning to pre-pregnancy weight and preventing weight gain. Avoiding bladder irritants is another key to prevention. Remember the C’s: coffee, cokes, caffeine, chocolate and citrus fruits. Add to that list: spicy foods, wine and tomatoes. All of these common foods in American diets are irritating to the bladder and can cause urgency. Limit daily consumption of them to improve symptoms. Maintain normal fluid intake, about 64 ounces of total fluid daily. I encourage women to make most of that water and allow limited daily servings of a preferred drink. Limiting fluids in an effort to prevent symptoms increases the possibility of urinary tract infections. At the same time, drinking too much fluid causes bladder over-activity. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is the involuntary loss of urine with physical exertion or even a cough or sneeze. It is NOT normal, but commonly occurs immediately after childbirth or many years later. The best strategy for prevention is to maintain pelvic floor muscle strength by doing daily Kegel exercises. It should be practiced daily along with core strengthening exercises to prevent loss of support of all pelvic organs and reduction of bladder symptoms. Good posture and alignment are important as well. Adequate bowel control to prevent constipation is also a key to preventing bothersome bladder symptoms. Remember, the pelvic floor maintains everything in the pelvis! Our goal at Ovation Women’s Wellness is to educate patients while providing exceptional women’s healthcare!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Today’s Gardening Trends

6th Annual Gardening Seminar

ANUARY IS THE PERFECT MONTH TO plan this coming season’s gardens. If you have been wanting to update your garden or landscape with a modern flair, this is the gardening seminar to attend! The Northeast Louisiana Master Gardeners Association, in conjunction with Ag Expo, cordially invites everyone to attend our sixth annual January gardening seminar, “Today’s Gardening Trends” on Saturday, January 16th, 2015, 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. Registration is $20.00 per person. For more information, contact the LSU AgCenter’s Ouachita Parish Extension Office at 323-2251.

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ABOUT THE SPEAKERS Keynote Speaker Norman Winter is currently the Director of UGA’s Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens at the Historic Bamboo Farm. He is the author of four books, including the latest, Captivating Combinations Color and Style in the Garden. He is a syndicated garden columnist with articles read coast to coast. Locally he is the “Garden Guru” featured each Saturday in the Savannah Morning News. Norman spent 15 years as an Extension Horticulture Specialist with Mississippi State University. In 2011, he became Director of the National Butterfly Center in Mission, TX. He is a sought after garden lecturer, speaking at such well known events as the Callaway Gardens Symposia, Southern Garden Symposium, St. Francisville, LA., Georgia Perennial Plant Association, Southern Cultural Her-

itage Foundation, Little Rock Flower Show, Arkansas State Master Gardener’s Convention, New Orleans Botanical Gardens, and Memphis Horticultural Society. Tony Tradewell is owner of Tony Tradewell Landscape Architect based in Deville, LA. Tony holds a degree in Landscape Architecture from LSU. He is a licensed Louisiana landscape architect, a licensed Louisiana landscape horticulturist and is a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects. Tony’s work includes residential, institutional and municipal projects throughout the ArkLaMiss. Allen Owings holds a Ph.D. in Horticulture form MSU. Dr. Owings is currently Research Director at LSU’s Hammond Research Station. He is Director of Research and Education for the Louisiana Nursery and Landscape Association, a Life Member of the Azalea Society of America and a four-term past president of the Baton Rouge Rose Society. Dr. Owings is also a member of the Louisiana State Horticulture Society, the American Society for Horticulture Science and the Louisiana Native Plant Society, among many others.

Eating Healthy

Start off 2016 with Fresh Choices from Vieux Carré Market

E 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, fresh fish and more. 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 let-

tuce and topped with our Vieux Carré Market house dressing, this savory meal will 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. Don’t be afraid of bread! We make a lot of ours daily to ensure freshness and quality for our sandwich lovers. By partnering with Nueske’s, we provide our customers with flavorful and nutritious meats such as savory smoked ham and turkey. You can’t go wrong when pairing this winning combination of in-house made products for a mouth-watering sandwich. Is fluten free what you need? 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 11a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner Hours: Thursday – Saturday 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

THE ROMANTIC | LOOK

FROM DAY TO NIGHT

The same makeup doesn’t always work from day to night. Here are some quick tips from makeup artist, Meka Bennett Reliford, that will keep your face looking gorgeous around the clock. MAKEUP BY MEKA RELIFORD PHOTOS BY MARTIN G MEYERS PRODUCT BY M.D. MINERAL CLOTHING AND JEWLERY PROVIDED BY K-SERA BOUTIQUE MODELS: KAYLA STITES AND JULIANNE TIPPEN

Meka Tip: It’s important to start with a moisturizer under the makeup – it makes skin more pliable and creates a smoother, softer skin surface for makeup.

On the eyes: Meka applied Sundrenched on the eyelid. She then blended Avocado Mist and Sheer Bronze under the eye. On the lips: A soft lip is created by using Antique Rose mineral lip crayon and Nude lip stay. On the cheeks: Le-Rouge Pink Swirl was used on the cheeks.

THE URBAN | LOOK This bold look combines two of the yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular makeup trends: the winged eye and contouring. Meka takes us through the steps to create this look successfully. Meka Tip: Always start the eyes with eyeshadow primer all over the lid. This will ensure long wear and reduce creasing. On the eyes: Meka starts the look with M.D. Minerals new liner as an eyeshadow base. She uses the Grey Garden seasonal palette to create a dramatic eye. Start with a light grey all over the lid. Use a smokey grey to soften the edges and a black power on top of the winged liner to set it.

On the lips: Meka uses Pink Lady lip liner with Madison lip gloss over for a gorgeous, glowing lip.

On the cheeks: Le-Rouge Bellini Swirl was applied.

Even with a bold eye, make sure to apply tons of mascara to finish off the dramatic look.

THE COUNTRYSIDE | LOOK

Julianne looks polished in this look created for daytime wear. The simple eyes are combined with a pink lip for a look that is fresh-faced and beautiful.

Foundation: Meka starts the look by applying Liquid Mineral Foundation in Basic. She uses M.D. Minerals contour palette to define Julianneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s features. She uses a darker contour color around the perimeter and under the cheekbones, and a lighter highlight under the eye and bridge of the nose. On the cheeks: Le-Rouge Bellini Swirl was applied.

On the eyes: Start with a soft shimmer on the lid, like M.D. Mineralds Gold Spun. Use a color like Earthly Nude in the the crease and Bronzini in the outer corners. Transition the colors and create a smooth line with a clean brush. On the lips: Meka applied Neutral lip crayon as a liner with Rush lip gloss on top.

THE SOPHISTICATE | LOOK

Transition easily from a day to night look by pumping up your lips with a bold lip stay and adding color to your eyelids.

Foundation: Build the foundation with the contouring palette, making sure to add highlights under the eyes. Then buff everything with a fluffy brush and the Mineral Triage Powder.

On the eyes: Meka adds Crushed Mauve to Julianneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daytime look to deepen the color on the eyelid. Sundrenched is added on the inside of the eyes and Midnight Plum is applied on the outer corners and underneath the eye.

Meka Tip: Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to be daring with a dramatic eye and bold lip. On the lips: Meka applied a fine liner with Neutral lip crayon and Ruby lip stay on top. These new kiss-proof lip stays from M.D. Minerals promise bold hues with matte finishes for a color that stays all day.

Be a Part of the Savannah Grand Family A Safe and Joyful Place to Live

AVANNAH COURT ASSISTED LIVING OFFERS gracious hospitality in a comfortable and elegant atmosphere and a lifestyle sought after in retirement living. Families can be confident that their loved one will be “at home” and content at Savannah Grand. This community excludes warmth and charm, with the accent on familiarity. Savannah Grand features lovely courtyard and large porches that have become true “meeting places” for residents. You’ll find quaint and relaxed common areas where the focus is on promoting hospitality so each of our residents and their family’s members feel right at home. Savannah Cottage Memory Support Residence is the perfect alternative for individuals and families managing difficulty with Alzheimer’s and dementia and seeking an appropriate level of support. Savannah Cottage is a friendly community specifically designed for those who live with Alzheimer’s disease or related memory loss. Our cottage residents find all the amenities and benefits offered in our Grand communities, plus additional supportive services personalized for each resident. Our focus is dedicated to those with memory loss-understanding the challenges, changes and difficulties of dementia. Associates realize each resident is unique, just as their current stage and progression of dementia is different. At Savannah Cottage, our goal is to improve and enhance the day-to-day lifestyle of our residents. Special activities and support services are offered to provide the maximum quality of life for those with memory loss, implementing various activities through the day to stimulate communication, socialization and function. Each day is enriched through a well-designed activities program including exercised to enhance the mind and body. Comfortable hallways, spacious common areas and relaxing gardens provide ample space to walk, indoors or outdoors. Everything for your loved one is here in one place! Savannah Cottage is truly the premier community for memory-impaired individuals. We cordially invite you to call today, schedule a visit and see all we have to offer. We look forward to serving your family.

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MGH Physicians Clinic Clinic Staff Embraces Community

MILING FACES GREET THOSE WHO ENTER THE doors of the Morehouse General Hospital Physicians' Clinic in Sterlington. You will feel the family atmosphere when in the company of the professional women who make up the staff at the facility: JoAnn Meche, FNP, Emily Dodson, LPN and April Brown, Receptionist. When you walk into the building, the first person you will meet is April Brown, a vivacious receptionist capable of putting a smile on your face on the most troublesome of days. Her personality is perhaps best reflected in her decision to pursue a nursing degree at Louisiana Delta Community College after dialysis work led her to discover that she liked helping people. She loves to spend time with her two sons, Logan and Emerson. A trip through the MGH clinic brings you to our LPN, Emily Dodson, a smiling face ready to help you. Described as a compassionate, thorough and knowledgeable nurse, Emily accomplished a lifelong desire to be a nurse in 2010 when she received her license after graduating from Arkansas Northeastern College. Emily's time outside of work is dedicated in large part to her children, Gauge and Khloe, and fiancé, Chad. She states they are the light of her life. The last person you will encounter on your journey through the clinic is JoAnn Meche, a Nurse Practitioner board certified in Family Practice. JoAnn is the mom of two and a native of northest Louisiana as well. In fact, she graduated from Ouachita High School. One of her children has followed her into the medical field, while the second is attending college locally at ULM. In JoAnn’s spare time, she loves to travel, read and cook. Sabrina Simmons, LPN with MGH said that Meche is a woman who truly cares about her patients and goes above and beyond. The clinic as a whole strives to create a pleasant, calming atmosphere for patients to visit for a variety of healthcare needs. The clinic is open on Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with an hour break for lunch at noon. Call 318.598.1852 for more information or stop by 8649 Highway 165, Suite 1 (located next to Fiesta Linda and Johnny’s Pizza) to enjoy a community clinic located "right around the bend."

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Monroe’s Newest Children’s Boutique

The Stork’s Nest is Now Open on Forsythe Avenue

HERE IS A NEW CHILDREN’S boutique in town, just in time for the New Year. The Stork’s Nest is conveniently located in the Northgate Shopping Center on Forsythe Avenue. The shop offers adorable clothing from babies’ to kids’ sizes in the latest styles as well as classic ensembles. Look no further than The Stork’s Nest when it comes to a baby registry. They carry a variety of popular items such as WubbaNubs, teething items such as the Gummee Glove, Toofeze, chew beads and the Baby Shusher, a proven sleep miracle makes a great gift for newborns. Puj is another go-to line this year, boasting items that simplify parenthood. Their foldable tubs are a must-have item on any registry. If you are looking for a keepsake gift, Elegant Baby offers heirloom gifts that

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are sure to please. Moms-to-be aren’t forgotten at The Stork’s Nest. Check out their wide selection of designer baby changing bags by Babymel, Kalencom and Storksak. Stylish and super comfortable Majamas, maternity pajamas are available, as well as nursing bras, nursing scarves, Padalily items and loads more. For older children, The Stork’s Nest carries a large selection of books and toys. Corolle baby dolls are always a hit for little girls. These premium dolls, designed in France offer a nostalgic essence, with their familiar scent. You will find a variety of plates, cups and bowls that suction to the table or highchair and make great gifts for moms with messy toddlers. They offer a vast selection of puzzles and educational toys to challenge kids’ minds as well as entertain.

The Stork’s Nest is proud to carry premium clothing for babies as well as children. They offer everything from cute to classic and sassy to simple. With names you know and trust, such as Kickee Pants and Kissy Kissy, to some of the newcomers like Kardashian Kids, you are sure to find something for your little ones. Stop by and visit with owner Sarah Katherine Ewing and see what The Stork’s Nest has for you and your growning family! The shop is located at 1826 Forsythe Avenue. And don’t forget to find them on Facebook to view new items as they arrive!

Sleepy Hollow Furniture

New Year New Beginnings… Maybe

HE PHRASE “NEW YEAR, NEW BEGINNINGS” OFTEN brings a cliché, shoulder shrug kind of reaction as we ring in the New Year. New Year: another year older, another year to face, another year of resolutions. New Beginnings: start over, change, try again. While these are all seemingly bah humbug thoughts of the phrase, I find inspiration in facing the words one by one. New Year New Beginnings. Say those words one at a time. Ole Mr. Webster had some inspiring insight. New: being other than the former or old, having been in a relationship or condition but a short time Year: a time or era having a special significance New: made or become fresh, of dissimilar origin and usually of superior quality Beginning: the point at which something begins; start One by one, these words can take the bah humbug out of the New Year. Recognize the constant change in life whether chosen or imposed. Thinking about starting a new year can surface a plethora of decisions, but what if it didn’t? What if we let the New Year not be

about new beginnings? What if we decide to not start all over again with day one on the calendar? New Year New Beginnings… Maybe. This year, I propose having new beginnings continuously. Change what needs to be changed as quickly as possible and resolve to improve at every opportunity. Find inspiration at every phase and embrace the new, expect fresh starts. The year 2014 was most memorable for Sleepy Hollow Furniture. Our fresh start began with the launch of HGTV Home Furniture followed immediately by rebuilding from the tornado destruction. Two new beginnings, one chosen and the other imposed. There was no waiting for the New Year to ring in! The new beginnings have launched one new improvement after another. The new Sleepy Hollow Furniture and Mattress is better than ever. We’ve embraced the change and inspired many to give their whole home a fresh start of beauty and comfort. We expect many new years and many new beginnings. We will continuously become better for you. Cheers to continuous new beginnings!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

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 sixth 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

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dropped off at Raising Cane’s on Louisville Ave., Raising Cane’s in West Monroe, Raising Cane’s in Ruston, Herringstone’s Boutique, Salt & Pepper, K-Sera, Career Technical College, Rodéo Boutique of Ruston, any of the three D&D Cleaners 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 in March, 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, Cross Keys Bank and Career Technical College 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 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 find them on Facebook – CP of Monroe.

Monroe Chamber Gala and Auction

The Monroe Chamber of Commerce, Origin Bank and Thomas and Farr Agency hosted the 2015 Holiday Gala and Auction benefiting the Monroe Chamber on Thursday, December 3. One of the most anticipated social events of the year, the 2015 Gala was a grand affair filled with the merriment of the season. Dressed in their most fashionable holiday attire, guests enjoyed a fine array of hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres, sip cocktails and danced the night away to live entertainment provided by Flashback 5.

On the BayouScene

1 Billy Haddad with John and Kathy VanVeckhoven 2 Jason McDonald and Rebecca Touchstone 3 Ann Marie Sator and Paulen Luttgeharm 4 Donald Johnson and Cody Bauman 5 Daphne McClish and Ray Garrett 6 Sue Patel, Nash Patel, Darren Snider, Kevin Patel and Milan Patel 7 Gladys Smith and Edda Curry

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

BAYOUOUTDOORS

Late Season Deer Strategies article by Dan Chason

anuary is the time that I am thankful that I hunt in Area 1 in Louisiana. For the most part we are highly jealous of Area 2 as their season starts early and we are all itching to be hunting, while our counterparts are able to get a two week start on us in Area 1. However, that late start means we get a little more time at the end of season when the Area 2 gang has to go back to the stick and string, while we are in the prime time for deer hunting. Louisiana is notorious for two things: Late winters and balmy Fall weather. Personally, I despise deer hunting if I am swatting mosquitoes. There is something about sitting in a deer stand with a frost on the ground and the blind heater going that makes for a more enjoyable hunt. I cannot tolerate sweating and swatting while hoping to see a deer. The problem with a later season lies with only one issue: Deer have been pressured and you have to adapt. There are two kinds of deer hunters that I have identified. One is the hunter that hunts deer in general and then there is me...the hunter that hunts ONE deer. Last January, I was hunting one good buck really hard and he, in turn, helped me become a better deer hunter. This particular buck was a toughie. He had become quite nocturnal and would not show up until right at pitch black dark. I knew there was only one way to harvest him. I had to find where he was bedding and adjust my movements where I didn't bump him going to and from my stand and I had to play the moon phases. I saw him in daylight one time and a switch flipped on in my head.

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This deer was broad side in a field, 75 yards away from me and it was 1 p.m. I wouldn't shoot him. I just couldn't take a pot shot at a deer that had messed up. A duck hunting group had pushed him out of some flooded woods and he was returning to his bedding area. I left him alone for three days. I never entered the woods where he lived and was confident no one else would since the area he was bedding in was thick and overgrown. I worked the perimeter of his bedding area when the wind was favorable and located his tracks. He had one hoof print that had a definite mark I recognized. I knew it wouldn't be long before I would have my chance if I was patient. There were many mornings I was tempted to go into his feeding area but I knew that the moon was not right. This buck fed at night except when there was a harvest moon. I had the right moon coming in two weeks, so I decided to wait and hunt him the day before, the day of and the day after the right moon phase. If I was going to have my shot, that would be it or I would only have a week to hunt him with a bow. I loaded my gear long before daylight and parked my Ranger about a half mile from my stand. Instead of taking the well traveled road I normally took, I opted to put on my chest waders and wade the creek to come in on a good wind so he could not smell me. I settled into the stand and waited patiently. I have to admit when it came close to noon, I was getting discouraged. I had seen a smaller buck and two does, but I had one deer on my mind. I was not getting down.

I had just about fallen asleep from boredom, as the few deer I saw were right at daylight and I hadn't even seen a squirrel for hours. Suddenly, I heard a blue heron squawk and leave the slough that lays to the north of my stand. The distant slosh of water told me that something was approaching. I have to admit that my heart rate increased a good bit. A doe suddenly appeared and eased through the edge of the woods, walking towards an open field and stopped. She stuck her nose in the air and I saw her tail rise and fall. I thought I was in trouble but thanks to the Buck Bomb trail I had laid walking in, she soon put her head down and eased on towards the creek bottom. Behind her, I immediately saw horns. It was 1:22 p.m. and it was my buck. On this particular spot, it is thick. I have learned that when bucks are pressured late in the year, the thicker the area, the better. That is why I opt for my .444 magnum muzzleloader. It carries a 265 grain headache and is not as easily diverted should it strike a small branch or limb. The buck stepped out, quartering away and followed the exact path that the doe had taken. I picked my opening and down he went. Not a wiggle or even a kick. The rifle had done its job and I had quite the sense of relief and satisfaction. Late season hunting can be quite rewarding. The secret is to watch your scent, take mind of the right wind to hunt and never hunt the stand if the wind isn't right. I am convinced that if I had hunted the normal morning and evening hunts, I would have never taken this buck. I am grateful and pleased that my game plan came together on this buck and cannot wait to take a poke at his brother. So when late season hunting isn't putting meat in your freezer, watch the moon and change your tactics. I assure you that big bucks change their patterns and successful hunters must do the same to harvest that buck of a lifetime.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Bayou Landing: The Venue with a View

Bayou Landing is Here to Make Your Event an Exceptional Experience

AYOU LANDING, “THE VENUE with the View," features two beautifully appointed interior levels, along with captivating exterior winding decks overlooking the 200 year old moss-canvassed cypress trees of the esteemed Bayou DeSiard. Easily accessible with generous parking, Bayou Landing offers 5,500 square feet of adaptable space to meet your every need. Whether you are looking to accommodate a wedding of 200 or banquet of 400, owners Kaycee + Doug Wood assure you that Bayou Landing will make any gathering a wonderful experience for guests, as well as the hosts. This unique venue offers full-service staffing for your special event. From wine stewards to on-site catering, your needs will

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be met. Rental of the property comes with perks – Bayou Landing has 250 beautiful wood chairs available to use as well as a number of round and rectangle tables. And while outside catering is welcome and a prep kitchen is available, the staff at Bayou Landing offers discounted rental fees if you choose their catering services for your event. Formerly know as “Cypress Inn,” the Wood family has kept all the charm of the established restaurant on the bayou, but totally transformed the space into the charming venue it is today. Beautiful ceramic wood floors and soaring vaulted ceilings with natural wood beams add to the appeal of Bayou Landing. The site features bride and groom’s rooms, as well as restrooms located upstairs and on the lower level adding to the

conveniences of renting this multi-level space. Outside guests can mingle among swimming ducks and curious turtles while a band plays on the winding decks. The bayou landscape offers gorgeous sunset views complete with scenic underwater lighting. If you are searching for the perfect venue for a corporate gathering, family or class reunion, wedding rehearsal and reception, prom, graduation or conference meeting, Bayou Landing will make your event an exceptional experience. Visit the website at www.bayoulanding.biz or call (318) 538-8990.

Happy New You

Make a New Year’s Resolution to Preserve

BY TIMOTHY J. MICKEL, MD, FACS, CERTIFIED, AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY

“I’m in shape. Round is a shape.” –Anonymous

T HAS BEEN SAID THAT INSIDE MOST of us is a thin person struggling to get out... but they 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 CrossFit 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 complimentary. 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.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Get a Head Start on the New Year at iEncourage Fitness

Where Faith, Fun and Friends Happen

ENCOURAGE FITNESS IS NOT A gym, a box or a health club. We are a small, exclusive, locally owned and operated, fitness studio that specializes in small group fitness classes. At iEncourage Fitness, you will find an environment that makes it easy for beginners to start and for more advanced participants to take it to the next level. We’re a laid-back, fun bunch of people with a common goal! We offer no contracts and no memberships! ALL of our classes are just 30 minutes! We want our members to come to class on a regular basis in order to see the results they’re after faster, but we also don’t want you to pay for classes that you aren’t attending. There is something for everyone and here’s a list of some of the classes at

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iEncourage Fitness • PiYo Live is a fusion of Pilates, yoga, strenth conditioning and cardio and provides a unique approach for improving balance and strength. It is for the person that enjoys a mind/body workout, but can’t sit still! • Turbo Kick is a super fun, safe and effective cardio workout combining shadow boxing, kickboxing, sports drills and simple dance moves. • Kettlebell FIT is a no impact, fat burning, full body cardio and strength workout using light weights and LOTS of reps. Burn fat and tone your body! • Total Body Sculpt is a head to toe toning and strengthening class using free weights and body weight as resistance.

• Hip Hop Fit with Catherine is a fun, energetic, hip hop class that will melt away tons of calories as you groove to the beat of the music. • P90X Live is intense cardio, challenging resistance training, plyometrics, flexibility, stability and more. • KettleBar is a fusion of Kettlebell FIT and Total Body Sculpt. Head to toe toning and no impact, fat burning with weights! • Butts and Guts with Penny is a workout that targets the two areas that most everyone wants to tone up and look better!

Ideal Protein: Your Last Diet

With Professional Laser Center, Losing Weight is Stress Free

BY JUDY WAGONER

VER EIGHT YEARS AGO, Professional Laser Center introduced an amazing weight loss program to the state of Louisiana, and since then, we've seen hundreds of men and women 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 the 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 over 20 years ago by Dr. Tran Tien Chanh, M.D. Ph.D., who focused his career and research on nutrition, with an emphasis on the treat-

ment of obesity. It's a four-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 will guide you through the program stress free.

Principles Behind the Protocol: Learn to live off the body's own fat reserves. The body employs energy from three reserves â&#x20AC;&#x201C; carbohydrates, protein and fat. First, from it's carbohydrate reserves, and when depleted, turns to its protein and fat reserves for energy. Simple and complex carbohydrates can prevent weight loss. The body stores approximately three days worth

of carbohydrates. The Ideal Weight Loss program has a 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 main principle is to deplete the carbohydrate reserves to compel the body to turn to its fat reserves to burn calories. The centerpiece of the protocol is gourmet, protein-based foods, which the dieter will consume during the program. These are high, biological value proteins. They're delicious, practical and satisfying and are available in an array of textures and flavors. Call Professional Laser Center today and let us show you how to get the weight off, and most importantly, keep it off. You won't believe how easy it is!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

C H AR L IE HE CK IN BL AC K & WH IT E FROM THE U.S AIR FORCE TO HIS CAREER AS AN ATTORNEY, THIS BAYOU ARTIST HAS BEEN DEVELOPING HIS PHOTOGRAPHY SKILLS FOR OVER 50 YEARS

ARTICLE BY BARBARA LEADER AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRAD ARENDER

he said. “One or two of them told me I was really strong in the languages. One day one of them told me that I’d make a good lawyer and I said ‘ok.’ The Sister at St. Matthews planted the seed for Heck’s law career while debates and extemporaneous speaking at school nourished his desire. “They couldn’t shut me up, so they said, ‘Go be a lawyer,’ he said laughing. Heck joined the Reserve Officers Training Corps at Louisiana Polytechnic Institute (now Louisiana Tech University) during the military draft. He entered the U.S. Air Force as an officer and was stationed stateside for his 4 year commitment. But, he knew that the military was not the life he wanted. “I wanted to do my duty and spend my time, but I didn’t want to make a career out of it,” he said. So as soon as his commitment was done, Heck used the GI Bill to pay for law school. But not before discovering his talent for photography quite by accident.

eaned against a wall in attorney Charlie Heck’s office an incredibly lifelike photograph of a brightly colored bird peeps out of the top of a half opened box. The Painted Bunting and its background of nearly identical blended colors were captured by Heck’s artistic eye and the moment preserved by his camera, as the bird perched on a reed in its habitat at Black Bayou. The photograph is one of hundreds that are mounted or propped along the many walls of Heck’s makeshift art gallery in his law office on the fourth floor of Premiere Plaza in Monroe. Walking through his office, Heck casually gestures toward the photograph. “I was into nature photography at the time,” he said. “I used bird calls to call the birds. I was sitting in my car and I turned on my call and in flew that bird. Many people think we don’t have those at Black Bayou, but there it was. It took a while for me to get him to quit sitting on my windshield wipers, but he finally lit on a bush beside the car. I had a flash on my camera, it was just a mess.” Heck chuckled as he remembered fumbling with his camera to get the beautiful shot. For him, each photo represents a memory of the circumstances surrounding the photograph and a special moment in time preserved for others to enjoy.

CHOOSING A VOCATION Heck, 73, was born in Shreveport and grew up in Calhoun, the third child in a family with six children. In addition to his art, he practices civil, trial and business law and owns a title company. His career, he says, was selected for him by a teacher at St. Matthews High School in Monroe. “I was taught by some nuns who were pretty demanding,”

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DEVELOPING HIS HIDDEN TALENTS “I didn’t do anything with cameras or photography while I was at Tech,” he said. “But I got married after college and I went into the Air Force. I had a wife with a birthday coming up and I wanted to surprise her. So, I went to the Base Exchange and I bought her one of those point and shoot cameras. In the group that I was assigned to was an elderly sergeant who worked in the photo lab. I very proudly showed him my acquisition for my wife and he looked at me and said. ’Lieutenant Heck, take it back! He said, ‘you don’t want that.” I took it back and he made me order a box camera twin lens reflex. It didn’t even have a light meter or anything on it.” Heck purchased a light meter and began working closely with the sergeant to hone a talent that would eventually become a big part of his life. “He started teaching me to develop film and take pictures,” he said. “My wife never saw that camera.” Heck said the sergeant lit a fire in him for photography. “We were doing black and white. To get into the dark room and have the smell and feel and watch the images come up was so exciting.” More than 50 years later Heck’s photography has been included in juried exhibitions and hangs in many homes and businesses in the area. He’s never had formal training in photography, but he learned from other photographers.

PROCESSES OVER THE DECADES Despite owning several digital cameras and printers, he’s nostalgic for the old processes and the times when he had to find creative ways to develop his pictures. “I liked making big prints, but my wife enjoyed using the bathtub. When my enlarger and the developing trays were on it and I needed a dark place to hang my film, I was a very unpopular guy,” Heck chuckled. “With digital, I don’t have to turn off any lights and I don’t have to sit with my computer in the bathtub,” he said. Despite the improvements to the process, Heck fondly remembers those early days. “There’s nothing quite like it. Being in there with a red light on – a safe light,” he said. “Your image is in the developer and all of a sudden that piece of paper starts to show some tones and you can make out an image. You had to know when to take it out and put it in the wash and then in the fixer. It’s the same thing with developing your own film. You’ve got a closed canister in which you do the developing. At the end of the time, you hesitate, take the top off, pull it out and hope like hell there will be an image on there. ” Today he enjoys using digital photography and large printers to produce high quality prints.“I worked with film cameras forever, but then came digital and now I get better images than I ever did with film,” he said. Heck refers to his photography as his ‘hunting and fishing.’ “I tell everyone that I get to shoot things more than once,” he joked.

CHANGES IN HIS CAREER AND HIS HOBBY While fine-tuning his talents, Heck worked as a defense attorney for more than 30 years. But working as a plaintiff’s attorney in a tragic case changed his course. “In 1991 when the plant in Sterlington exploded, my brother-in-law was the plant manager that was killed,” he said. “I met a lot of really sincere, really interesting people in that case – people who were really hurt. That was the first case that made me realize the need for psychiatrists and psychologists. I’d sit across the table interviewing those fellows and they’d be describing what happened and tears would be running down their cheeks and they’d be breaking pencils in their hands and not knowing they were.” He worked the case for ten years and reached a settlement to benefit the families of those impacted by the explosion. Over the years, Heck’s interests in photography have shifted focus as well. Nature photography was his first love, but in time, he became more interested in scenic photography-- capturing entire vistas instead of focusing on smaller subjects. “When I first started off, the key to photography was the lens because you could almost get a shoebox and put a good lens on it and if your glass was good, you could get a good image because the lens controlled it,” he said. “But in the digital age, the cameras have developed where they almost process your image and you have to marry the camera to the lens. If you get a lens that’s not sharp and put it on a good camera you’re going to mess yourself up because your images are not going to come out as sharp as you’d like.”

AN ARTIST’S EYE FOR OPPORTUNITY Although Heck is quick to give his equipment credit for his inspirational work, it’s much more than cameras, lenses and printers that makes his work stand out among that of other photographers. “I just see shapes and things that jump out at me and they seem worth preserving,” he said “Paying attention to detail separates the amateur and the artist. Looking at what you shoot whether it‘s shapes or a winding road or whatever that goes through the picture that catches your eye. There are a lot of things that go into it. I don’t know why I do it or how

I do it. It’s just fun to me.” Heck’s constant awareness makes his work special. “My brother and I were out on Highway 15 and he was looking at butterflies. I was just walking around and saw that cloud formation,” he said pointing to a black and white print on the wall. “So I setup my tripod and took a picture of the field.” Many of his favorite images started out as unexpected opportunities. “Once I was in Santa Fe at the Georgia O’Keefe museum,” he said. “Everyone was looking at the museum, but I turned around and across the street with my back to the museum was a big adobe wall with a little tree and a yellow curve running through it. I took a picture of that and enlarged it.” “It’s just looking around,” he said. “I guess I’m constantly composing when I walk around with a camera in my hand. I’m looking for form and texture.” “One time, I’d been up all night in Port Aransas shooting the lunar eclipse,” he said. “We were coming in and the sun was just coming up. There was this old house across the street from some business and I shot it. I never printed the lunar eclipse. It just didn’t appeal to me as much as the house.” Heck sells limited edition prints of some of his works, but some of his work he won’t sell. “There was a creek that I took a series of seven or eight exposures of side by side to get the whole creek and stitched them together to get about an eight foot mural,” he said. “But it was long and narrow. I displayed it using magnets over at the (Ouachita River Art) gallery. Some guy from Kansas came in and said he wanted it, but he didn’t want all of it. He wanted it to be shorter and wider. I said,’ so what you’re telling me is that you want a ‘piece’ of art because that’s only a piece of the art.’ I said ‘no I’m not going to do that.” THE FUTURE OF ART IN THE TWIN CITIES Heck will be the featured artist in February in the Ouachita River Art Gallery on Trenton Street in West Monroe. The Ouachita River Art Gallery is the oldest artists’ cooperative in Louisiana, having recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. He’s also very active in the Art Crawls in downtown Monroe and West Monroe. While he’s encouraged by the development in the downtown areas, he’s afraid that it will hurt those that started the renaissance. “It all started with the artists,” he said. “Art Crawls publicized the artists and were funded by the artists in the beginning. When it started producing visitors and customers the cities became involved because of people coming to downtown.” Artists are allowed to sell original works or limited edition photographs without collecting taxes from their patrons, a benefit that helps encourage sales. Tax incentives are also fostering further development downtown. Heck hopes for more partnerships between the cities and the artists where city-sponsored events in the cultural districts attract more visitors and help foster a growing art scene. “Whenever I go out, I can always find a picture,” he said. “If I put my camera equipment in the car, I will find an image that I want to take and do things with it and make it special for me. That’s the beauty of photography. The fact that when I walk down the halls of this office and every photograph that I’ve got is a memory and I remember how I took it and when I took it and why I took it – it’s meaningful to me reliving those experiences. I shoot mainly for me.”

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

New Year. New You!

Let Elements Help You with Your 2016 Health Goals BY PRISCILLA-TESS WILKINS, OWNER

016 HAS ARRIVED AND MANY OF US HAVE PUT OURfoot down on health. This year, we are going to get healthy and take care of ourselves. Sadly, most of us fall off the band wagon within a few short, busy weeks into the year. It takes energy to take care of oneself and most of us are run down. But don’t get discouraged! Let Elements help you with your 2016 health goals. I know how it feels to want to be healthy but not have the energy to fulfill my goals. I also know how it feels to want to go and exercise or be active, but my body aches and prevents me. When I became a health coach, I wanted to provide innovative, easy, and fun ways for people to obtain wellness so my partners and I opened Elements. We are a spa that offers treatments to aid your body in wellness but still are luxurious and feel wonderful. We have many different types of sessions that promote wellness but the true miracle worker is our new therapy called VMITs – vitamin and mineral infusion therapies. I am in love with these infusions; they truly do work. This is a therapy which uses an IV to infuse your body with vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, B vitamins, Vitamin C and much more. I struggle with chronic pain and for the first time in a very long time, I am almost pain free. Sure, there is the occasional pang but it is vastly better than before my infusions. I also feel run down and ragged everyday – I mean, being a mom and a business owner has a price. The day after my first infusion, I felt as if I had just had the most restful night of sleep (even though my son kept me up for three hours in the middle of the night). I had an unusual amount of energy during the day and into the evening. I was coming home and being Wonder Woman even after a full 12 hour work day and little sleep. I was amazed. I hate, and I mean HATE needles so for me to volunteer for some pincushion duty speaks volumes. So if you are ready to get your wellness on or if you just want to battle your chronic pain or fatigue, come try out a session or two at Elements. 82 JANUARY 2016 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

Everything You Need to Stay Organized

Sue Paperie Carries Planners, Calendars, Notepads and More

ITH A NEW YEAR COMES A fresh start. Many people make a list of daunting New Year’s resolutions, one of which is to get organized! Whether you want to get your office tidy, keep your kids on schedule or plan ahead in 2016, Sue Paperie has everything you need to stay organized and make this year a successful one! January is the perfect time to pick out a new planner and this specialty stationery store has a variety of options for different tastes and personalities. “We have super cute planners from Rifle Paper and Lilly Pulitzer,” said Rachel Davison, co-owner of Sue Paperie. “So you can look chic and organized at the same time!” “I would recommend to anyone to get

a planner,” said Davidson. “Find one that you love and use it! Writing down reminders and appointments is easier to keep rather than just typing it in a phone. Planners keep you on task.” In addition to buying a planner to fit your needs, Davison offers other tips to stay organized. “We offer a line of pens from LePen,” said Davison. “You can use those to color code your notes or activities, making it simple to see and remember.” Another way to ensure you stay organized throughout the year is to get a calendar. You can plan ahead and write down important dates. Sue Paperie has several options including calendars from Rifle Paper, Karen Adams and Paper Source.

An essential part of getting organized is making a list and checking it twice. Sue Paperie has options when it comes to notepads, post it notes and even grocery lists to make sure you don’t forget a thing. In order to be organized, it helps to have coordinating looks. Sue Paperie is an exclusive carrier of Jon Hart bags and accessories, which includes quality custom and personalized bags, totes, and various travel goods and accessories. From luggage and laptop cases to laundry bags, this is a good way to keep the whole family organized and color coordinated!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

Krewe of St. Fred’s Event January 29

2016 PTO Fundraiser to Focus on Computer Lab Update and Expanded Learning Space

T. FREDERICK KICKS OFF 2016 with some big events starting with the PTO Krewe of St. Fred’s Mardi Gras fundraiser on January 29th and Catholic School week the first week of February, which includes an Open House on February 4th. “The PTO has successfully completed all projects that were promised to sponsors plus some additional items for teachers and students. This year’s PTO fundraiser focuses on updating the computer lab and expanding the learning space that will be both functional and conducive to interactive learning. With Blair David at the helm and a fantastic Technology team, we have the perfect leadership on track to be one of the best STEM/STREAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math/Sci-

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ence, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, Math) preparatory schools,” said Bob Webber, Principal. “Our PTO, staff and School Board are committed to supporting teachers and staff and helping fund extra programs that will bring St. Frederick to the forefront in both technology and learning. This investment is good for the school, our students and the future of our community,” said Misti Cordell, PTO President. Cordell thanks past sponsors and supporters who have made possible the PTO equipment upgrades of biology, engineering and physics labs and other improvements including: drop ceilings, new electrical, new

flooring, blinds, whiteboard, fresh paint and light fixtures for classrooms and offices; new chairs, desks and other furniture; laptops, docking stations and desktops for students, teachers and coaches; ceiling mounts and short throw Smartboard projectors with Bose speakers plus stipends to teachers for additional classroom supplies. “This year’s PTO theme is Mardi Gras, but it is a casual event and masks are optional. If you would like to be a sponsor, give me a call at 318-376-9504,” Cordell said.

Open House “Mark your calendars for our St. Frederick Open House on February 4, 2016. We invite interested parents and students to attend. They will be impressed with the PTO facility upgrades and the faculty at St. Frederick preparatory school,” said Shere May, Admission Director. St. Frederick is a Catholic school with a diversified student body from many religious denominations. St. Frederick is a college preparatory school serving grades 7-12. www.stfrederickhigh.org

No More Failed Resolutions

This New Year Create a Healthy Lifestyle That Sticks

EAR AFTER YEAR WE MAKE resolutions for a healthier lifestyle- exercise regularly, eat well and give up bad habits. We start off the New Year great, but then our newly adopted healthy lifestyle slowly starts to fade. Skipping the gym and replacing salads with cheeseburgers quickly becomes routine again. If you want to create a healthy lifestyle that sticks, the professionals at Delhi Hospital can provide the support and guidance you need to get you on the right track for a healthy year. Having a personalized plan for wellness will make your journey to a healthier lifestyle that much easier and less intimidating. Diabetes Self-Management Program Our AADE (American Association of Di-

abetes Educators) Nationally Recognized Diabetes Self-Management Program is designed to help persons with diabetes or prediabetes gain and maintain a better control of their condition and feel good about themselves while doing so. Our staff of Certified Diabetes Educators teaches skills that will enable you to keep your blood glucose levels as close to the normal range as possible. Medical-Nutrition Therapy Your diet can have a critical impact on your health and overall wellness. Eating healthy can relieve the symptoms of some medical conditions, increase your energy level and improve your quality of life. Through our Medical Nutrition Therapy Program, you can work with a Registered Dieti-

cian to develop a meal plan to meet your individual health goals. These small changes can very positively impact your long-term eating habits and healthy lifestyle choices.

Obesity Prevention Program Obesity is such an alarming condition because of the increased risk for a number of health problems that can develop as a result of being overweight. Obesity-related conditions include heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer, which are all leading causes of preventable deaths. Our Obesity Prevention Program can help you discover a lifestyle combining healthy eating and physical activity to both control obesity and improve your overall well-being. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t allow your New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resolution to go unfinished; let the experts at Delhi Hospital help manage your medical conditions and become a healthier you. Whether it be controlling your diabetes, shredding those extra pounds gained during the holidays, or coordinating a personalized nutrition plan, Delhi Hospital is your place to discover a healthy you in this New Year!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

SIMPLY LOU H O W T H E R O C K I N ' P N E U M O N I A S AV E D M Y L I F E ILLUSTR ATION A ND ARTICLE BY LOU DAVENP ORT

etty Davis said, ”Getting older isn't for sissies!” True. I'm 63 now. I don't mind telling my age. I am still in pretty good health and I am very thankful. I take a few minor medications. I don't move as fast as I once did, but I can still do my Tina Turner dance, well, for about two minutes. I have some wrinkles, but I've earned them. One thing I do have to deal with are panic attacks. My first one struck while I was sitting in a theatre, watching a good movie. Suddenly, my heart was racing. I was cold, clammy and could hardly breathe. I thought I had to get out of there right then or I was going to die. Once out in the cold air, I began to feel better. My heart slowed down. What in the hell had just grabbed hold of me? I had several more of those scary monsters until I had to go to the doctor. Thank goodness, I did, but the doctor also informed me, “You are probably going through ‘the change.’” Whoopee. Just what I wanted to hear, but, at the same time I was glad to know I was not going to die. I got a prescription for

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medicine to help in controlling those things. But.... LITTLE DID I KNOW, I WAS ABOUT TO BOARD THE CRAZY TRAIN! “The Change!” Now, there's a glorious thing that happens to us women. I read all the stuff I was supposed to be experiencing. I had symptoms, but, my change was not going to be normal! With me, nothing ever is. Before I could make it to the gynecologist, I came down with “The Rockin' Pneumonia!” I've had it three times in my life so I have earned the right to call it that. I was so sick and running such a high fever, I was delirious. Literally. Adam and Paige, my children, dragged me to the emergency room. I just wanted somebody to knock me in the head and put me out of my misery. They found I was anemic, had pneumonia and was almost septic. I was so sick and delirious, I hadn't remembered that my health insurance was only good at another hospital, not the one I was at. I was too sick to care. Ah, just send me the bill, go away! Oh yeah, you know I was all outta my head.

My soul brother number one, Lenard, was up at that hospital in the wee hours of the morning, ready to kidnap me and take me to the other “covered” hospital. He really would have smuggled me right out of there. But, God works in mysterious ways. All the hospitals were full and they had to keep me. Our great escape was foiled. But, I know he loves me. I would have done the same for him, too. I had all kinds of IV's going and blood transfusions, too. They were concerned about my anemia. I kept telling them why I was anemic. I have female problems! It's the damn “change!” Oh no, that claimed that was not it. Yes it is, I argued. They insisted on scheduling a colonoscopy. “No, not that!” I pleaded. Well, you know what happened. “The Prep!” Hell in a bottle. I had to drink that vile tasting bottle from hell and then spend hours on the throne. Praise be I was one of the first ones to get scoped, because I am not a nice lady when I have not had a cup of coffee in the morning. It wasn't as bad as I had imagined. They knocked me out with something good. And guess what? I was fine! I knew that. So

next stop, the “gynny!' Not one of my favorite places to go. How I hate the fate that awaits us women there. This time my doctor found out the anemia was caused from, guess what? Just what I said it was! She ordered a D&C. More good drugs and I slept right through it! But, it didn't help. What next? It was decided that I had the very beginnings of endometrial cancer. That one word, cancer, can make you fall to your knees quicker than any other word I can think of. Again, God was there. I was sent to the most angelic oncologist/gynecologist in Shreveport. I swear that man had a golden aura around his head! God let him give me that peace that goes beyond understanding. I knew I was going to be all right. God put me right where I needed to be. My hysterectomy was scheduled for the next week. I call them “hystericals.” It just sounds better and makes me laugh. If you have to have one, you might as well give it a better name. Any procedure that ends in “ectomy” just makes me say “eeewwwww.” I got my orders and went to get my prep supplies. A lady handed me a GALLON JUG with white powder in it. My eyes got big as saucers. “I HAVE TO DRINK ALL THIS?” She sympathetically told me, yes, I did and to mix it with something that tasted good. Nothing could have made that crap taste good. Even worse, it was called “Go Lightly!” Let me tell you something. I don't know who named it that, but I would like to slap them real hard! There is nothing about “going lightly” about it. I'd drink some, almost throw up and well, you know the rest. It was one long, miserable night. By morning, there was nothing in that jug or me. Somebody “passed some good gas” to me and I think I counted backwards to 99. I did not wake up, that I remember, until I was back in my room hooked up to a morphine pump. I know that you only get so many pushes on that button, but, I think it had a placebo effect on me. I loved pushing that button! I vaguely remember people coming to see me and I think I talked to them. Then, the day came when I had to get up. NO! All my guts will fall out! I was only stapled together for goodness sake. I argued with this one old nurse in particular. She had to have been 80 years old and she was not going to let me get by with anything! She got my morphined butt up and on my feet. My guts didn't fall out and I actually could get around a little bit. I got great news from my angelic doctor, too. All clear! I almost cried from being so thankful. He was almost as happy as me. He told me in his profession, he didn't get to give good news often. He even gave me a big hug and I sure hugged him back. That was nine years ago. The grand finale of my “hysterical” was the ride home with Adam behind the wheel. I've named it, “The Blessed Hellride.” Racing down I-20, hitting every bump back to Monroe. I wanted my morphine pump back! Thankfully, I got home with all my staples intact. Paige was a wonderful caretaker. But, she had to go back to work and Adam was left in charge. I was getting around, but, I still needed help. I learned this. Adam Davenport should never, ever be in any kind of health care profession. He left me! He had “things to do!” He better be glad I love him a lot because at the time, I really wanted to put him in the hospital, stapled together without a morphine pump! Then, I would drive him home on Hwy 80, NASCAR style. Getting older is not so bad! Panic attacks will not kill you. It's weird to say having pneumonia saved my life, but it did! I survived “the change.” I survived a gallon jug of GO LIGHTLY. I survived my “hysterical.” My guts didn't fall out. Thankfully, I only had a cancer scare. I forgave Adam for “The Blessed Hellride.” So, hit me James Brown, “I Feel Good!” WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

G.I. Associates

We Don’t Monkey Around With Tummy Trouble

HE STRESS OF NOT KNOWING WHAT TO DO TO relieve a baby’s stomach discomfort can be overwhelming for parents. You’d give anything to make them feel better. Should you wait and take your child to the pediatrician or the family doctor? A pediatric gastroenterologist’s training gives you the peace of mind that a specialist will treat your child’s stomach issues. Adults aren’t the only ones who are troubled with acid reflux, celiac disease or GERD; children can have these same issues. A toddler’s picky eating might be a sign of digestive issues because he can’t tell you that a certain food gives him indigestion. Pediatric specialists can end your anxiety about what to feed a child with digestive problems and make mealtime enjoyable for the whole family. Symptoms of disorders that can affect the upper GI tract (from the esophagus to the stomach) include: • Heartburn • Difficulty swallowing • Stomach pain • Nausea

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• Vomiting • Problems in the passage of food • Any combination of these symptoms

No one knows your child better than you do, so trust your instincts. If your child has a stomachache or persistent digestive problems like diarrhea, constipation or cramping, it’s time to see a pediatric gastroenterologist. GI Peds is part of GI Associates, the largest gastroenterology clinic with pediatric specialists on staff, in Mississippi. You don’t need a referral to bring your child to GI Peds; you can come to our office first. So don’t monkey around the next time your child has tummy distress, because we don’t! GI Associates is a certified endoscopy facility with a staff of board-certified physicians highly trained in gastroenterology for adult and pediatric patients. Contact GI Associates at 601.355.1234 to request a pediatric gastroenterologist to care for your child.

Stuff a Bus

The Center for Children and Families teamed up with The Radio People to help make this holiday season brighter for children in our community who need it most by hosting the sixth annual "Stuff a Bus" campaign. From Wednesday, December 2 through Friday December 4, an RV was parked outside of Pecanland Mall as a drop off point for toys and gift cards. The gifts were donated as part of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Christmas Projectâ&#x20AC;? to fulfill the Christmas wish lists of children who are served through the Center's many programs.

On the BayouScene

1 David Gore and the Limu volunteers 2 Kelly Gray, Jenny Pankey and Kayla Hebert 3 ULM Pharmacy students: David Evans, Trista LeBeouf, Lac Nguyen , Anri Lemoine and Quy Tran 4 Girl Scout troop #578 5 Delta Sigma Theta sorority donated over 50 toys 6 Amanda Heikkila, Jenny Pankey, Robynn Hodnett, Kathryn Bagley and Cassie Livingston

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

VIEW OF TOMORROW I N T R O D U C I N G J O H N B E L E D WA R D S article by MICHAEL DEVAULT Fresh off a resounding victory over Sen. David Vitter, Governor-elect John Bel Edwards isn't resting on any laurels. He's hard at work building the framework for a massive overhaul of state government, undoing years of neglect and shortsighted policies and bringing Louisiana back from the brink.

WITH JUST WEEKS TO GO BEFORE HE STEPS BEHIND A PODIUM and takes the oath of office as Louisiana's next governor, John Bel Edwards is giving Louisiana a preview of what they can expect from his administration. Already, he's made waves by promising to build a bipartisan administration, govern from the center and unite the state's disparate and often competing regions while providing solutions to spiraling education and healthcare costs, a stagnant economy and what some have called a broken state government. In spite of these challenges, Edwards abounds with a youthful, driven optimism and an enthusiasm for all things Louisiana. He and his wife, Donna, reared three children together--two daughters, both in college, and a son who'll attend school in Baton Rouge, and they're active members of the Amite community and St. Helena Catholic Church. A graduate of West Point and LSU Law School, Edwards is a veteran used to make-or-break challenges. In 1988, he began serving in the U.S. Army, eventually commanding a company in the 82nd Airborne. But during his years of service, his family back in Louisiana was never far from home, and in 1996, he returned home. Spend just a few minutes with the governor-elect, and you'll leave with a renewed sense of hope in Louisiana. Driven by a hopeful vision for the future, he is busy assembling the team that he hopes will help restore Louisiana's tomorrow. BayouLife caught up with the governor-elect, who spared a few minutes so our readers could get to know him a little better.

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Photo courtesy of Top Drawer Strategies, LLC

BL: Louisiana is a diverse state, with deep cultural differences between north and south Louisiana, southeastern and southwestern Louisiana, and even New Orleans as its own thing. What will your plan be for governing these diverse areas? What do you see as the greatest strength of the state and each of these regions? JBE: Our diversity is our greatest strength. I’ll govern from the center of the political spectrum. That is where the best ideas come from. There is so much that we agree upon regardless of geography, party, race, or gender. When we start with those things, we can work out towards policies that make life better for all of Louisiana.

BL: There is a lot of talk about the first hundred days, but really the situation is more "first sixty days" and "first legislative session." What are your priorities for the first days in office before the start of the session, and what are your goals for the session?

JBE: We have some big challenges to tackle. Ensuring that we have a good set of proposals for the special session so that we can find areas of agreement to deal with our current year and next year, budget deficits will be essential. In my first days in office I’ll be focused on a collaborative approach to reviewing, capping, sunsetting or repealing the tax exemptions, exclusions, rebates that aren’t giving people a good return on their investment. We’ll focus on ending the annual double-digit tuition increases, returning $16 billion of our own tax dollars to Louisiana over the next ten years through Medicaid expansion and focusing on a more fair, flatter tax structure that provides truth in advertising to businesses who want to operate in Louisiana. I’ll be working hard in the first weeks to ensure that we include stakeholder input in budgeting policy changes ensuring that every opinion is valued in the process. It’s time to put Louisiana first. People who want to do that will have a place at the table as we move forward together to solve our problems.

BL: There has been some talk of a special session to tackle the most pressing issues. Will you consider calling a special session in January/February? If so, what will the call be? JBE: We absolutely have to have a special

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session to deal with our current year budget deficit, or we won’t be able to operate in the current fiscal year. The call of the session is being designed, and we need to make sure it’s focused on solving our budget problems, but wide enough to provide solution driven options for legislators, as we all work toward a common goal. Obviously, we have to address the structural budget problems in the next fiscal year as well. There are no more short-term solutions available to us. In 2013, I led a bipartisan coalition to pass the only truly balanced, honest budget in the Jindal years. It took hard work, and it took cooperation. But I know our legislature and its members respond to good leadership that values their input and understands where they are coming from. I’m going to lead from the front.

“I expect one of the biggest challenges will be keeping people focused on the long term solution we all need and deserve as taxpayers, citizens and as a family--as one Louisiana.” ~ JOHN BEL EDWARDS

BL: The last eight years have seen children in the governor's mansion full time for the first time in decades. How about your kids? Are they excited? Does Mrs. Edwards have big plans for the state house?

JBE:: Donna and I have been incredibly focused on building a strong transition team and on the work ahead. I have visited the Governor’s Mansion and we are in the process of setting up a move in schedule. It’s an honor to occupy the house and I know Donna is eager to make sure it is an inviting home for everyone who visits. Our daughters are in graduate and undergraduate school and won’t be living in the Governor’s Mansion full time. John Miller, our youngest child will be moving into the mansion with us and at-

tending school in Baton Rouge. He’s excited about making new friends and knows what a privilege it will be for our family to represent the people of Louisiana. We’ll treasure this opportunity and make lots of wonderful memories during our time at the Governor’s Mansion.

BL: Governors Bobby Jindal and Kathleen Blanco spent a tremendous amount of time in northeast Louisiana during their terms, with Jindal boosting visits to the region almost weekly. Is this a practice you will continue? If so, where can we expect to see you first?

JBE: I will make sure to spend time in every corner of our state. We’ve got a big jobs boom in one part of our state; that will inevitably have widespread economic impact. We’ve got a massive infrastructure backlog that is holding back our state, and we’re behind on projects throughout the state. Our master coastal restoration plan is in need of attention and input so we can find a way to fully fund it. Our energy sector needs a governor who is in touch with their workforce and business needs. People across our state want better access to high quality healthcare and education. 350,000 Louisiana veterans are ready to have a better partner at the state level. These are not concerns and issues that solely affect one region of our state. So, I’ll be talking to people in every region about our problems, and inviting them to be part of the solutions. That will mean I spend time in every part of our state on a regular basis.

BL: What's the number one thing you expect will be the biggest challenge during your first year in office?

JBE: We’re going to have shared compromise to achieve shared prosperity. We’ll have to make some decisions that won’t always be popular in order to deal with the structural budget problems that are leading to bad decisions like raising tuition, and to bad outcomes, like our hospitals closing. I expect one of the biggest challenges will be keeping people focused on the long term solution we all need and deserve as taxpayers, citizens, and as a family--as one Louisiana.

ask erin ORGANIZING RESOLUTIONS FOR 2016 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46 6. Clear and organize the kitchen counters. The kitchen is full of flat areas which almost always attract clutter, so avoid that trap by creating pretty and convenient landing areas to make items that do land there seem more unobtrusive. For instance, a pretty basket or tray is great because each is easy to move and will typically hold a lot of small items. I also suggest removing any rarely- used appliances from the countertops. The less cluttered and clean the counters, the more organized the kitchen will look. 7. Make your bed every morning. This suggestion might sound a bit strange, but keeping your bedroom neat will make an immediate and huge difference in how organized the rest of your house looks and feels. 8. Make a master shopping list and post it prominently. Type out a list of the items you shop for the most and keep it where you can check each item off as supplies get low. Better yet, organize the shopping list according to the layout of the stores you frequent, too! 9. Keep a donate bin in each closet. As you see an item that you no longer want or need, toss it into the bin. When it is full, take the bin to your car so you can drop it off at your favorite charity while you are out and about. 10. Plan the next day the night before. I saved the best tip for last! Always, always prepare for the next day, the night before! Choose an outfit for yourself and your children, pack your bag and theirs, locate keys and important papers, etc. If you take the time to do this, I promise you will avoid a huge amount of stress!

So, are you going to keep your organizing resolutions for 2016? I know you can do it!

Erin Sharplin Love, owner of Panache by Erin, is a Certified Fashion and Image Consultant, Professional Organizer, and Certified Wedding Coordinator whose specialties include outfit coordination and closet organization. Love has a knack for creating the perfect organized spaces that work with each client’s personality, for helping her fashion clients develop their own personal style, and for helping her wedding clients create the wedding of their dreams within their budget and without the stress. Panache by Erin offers the following services – outfit coordination, personal shopping, personal color analysis, home/office organization and wedding/event coordination. To learn more please go to www.panachebyerin.com.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

TCBC Festival of Trees and Gala

Bells were jingling as the holidays got an official merry welcome from Twin City Ballet at the highly anticipated 7th Annual Festival of Trees Auction and Gala that took place before the ballet Saturday, December 5 at the Monroe Civic Center Theatre. Patrons filled the Jack Howard Theatre lobby to bid on beautifully decorated trees and auction packages created by TCB board members, as well as other local designers. Following the auction, Twin City Ballet presented it’s gala performance of A Christmas Adventure featuring Buddy the Elf and Act II of everyone’s favorite Christmas ballet, The Nutcracker.

On the BayouScene

1 Linda Lou and Sam Bourland 2 John Gist, Cindy and Robert Scott Foust 3 Tommy and Melanie Usrey with Georgia Street 4 Misty Frantom, Marsha and Brad Ellerbe 5 Richard and Whitney Denton 6 Alana and Kamden Cooper 7 Sylvia Masur and Phyillis Gordon 8 Paula Ford, Ashley Burkett and Beth Swanner 9 John and Paula Trisler with Kasie Lowery 10 Claire Littleton, Amy Titus, Major Hendricks and Blake Everett 11 Judge Wilson, Jarred and Christine Rambo 12 Rod and Sue Ellen Cascio, Nikki Haynes and James Guasto 13 Melanie Moﬀett, Susan Lolley and Lisa North 14 Pat and John Floyd 15 Tommy and MaryLu Smith 16 Audrey and Breanna Young 17 Summer Lafoon and Wendy Handy 18 Stacie Brown and Amber Denton

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TCBC Holly Jolly Breakfast

On Saturday, December 6, the Jack Howard Theatre lobby transformed into a winter wonderland for Twin City Ballet Company’s Holly Jolly Breakfast. Complete with Mrs. Claus’ kitchen, a reindeer barn, elf school and more, the scene delighted the faces of hundreds of children as they enjoyed breakfast, pictures with Santa and crafts. Buddy the Elf himsel, along with other cast members of A Christmas Adventure featuring Buddy the Elf and The Nutcracker, was on hand for photos as guests mingled through the lobby.

On the BayouScene

1 Belle and Ashley Joiner, Collier and Hollyn Breen 2 Maggie Mae and Mallory Meredith 3 Wendy and Megan Handy 4 Allison May and Traci Babusek 5 Kim Turner and Beth Swanner 6 Layla and Leanna Moffett, Georgia Moffett, Amber Keen and Savannah Moffett 7 Vivian and Stella Livingston

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A Family Affair There comes a time in every cook's kitchen routine when it is necessary to venture off the mainstream, stray from the beaten path, a time when every grill master and burger maven searches for that touch of the extraordinary to break the monotony of the normal. For those culinary adventurists in the know, the first and only stop they need to make is just a quick drive up 18th Street, to the foodie paradise that is Vieux CarrĂŠ Market.

article by MICHAEL DEVAULT & HANSON HOVELL HOLLADAY photography by MARTIN G MEYERS

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hen the Fontenot family announced in 2014 their intentions to close the gourmet market they had opened on 18th Street in Monroe, the news hit especially hard for Therese Nagem, her sister, Leigh Liles, and their cousin, Jaclyn Hall. Frequent visitors to Vieux Carré Gourmet, the trio had grown accustomed to the destination. The prospect of losing a valuable community gathering spot inspired them to step up to the plate. "We were sad for Monroe," says Therese, who is no stranger to the restaurant business.

Her husband, Sammy, is the founder and owner of Sammy's Grill, the iconic chain of Baton Rouge eateries. With their husbands' blessings, the girls set out on a mission. "We wanted to keep it open for Monroe, be together and have the kids grow up together in that environment." A few months later, Vieux Carré Market opened its doors. A prime example of what one might find off the beaten path, inside Vieux Carré Market, the atmosphere is the embodiment of organization, comfort, knowl-

edgeable staff, honest pricing, impeccable appearance and fine selections. The magic of Vieux Carré begins with the wide variety of meats, which includes locally sourced Wagyu beef, bacon and sausage made within their kitchen and top-shelf 1881 Filet Mignon. And for those unsure of how to prepare the delicious delicacies they just procured, the local, New Orleans-esque chefs are on hand to share their culinary tips. On the cusp of entering their second year, the three women's dream is thriving. Owning

in part to their shared vision and part to Sammy's guidance, the restaurant and market are continuing to attract new customers as it develops a loyal following among northeast Louisiana's most discerning foodies. Therese's enthusiasm for the place abounds. "We love it more every day. We're totally enjoying it," she says. "We have a great staff, we're just crazy about them, and we're having a great time." Like its namesake found throughout New Orleans, Monroe's Vieux Carré Market experience is divided into two, distinct segments.

There's the market, featuring a rich assortment of gourmet and everyday food items, and there's the dine-in restaurant in the back. Though at first blush, the model may not seem too much different from the original Vieux Carré Gourmet, this incarnation features one key difference. "Our food is a bit more casual, more along the lines of the way Sammy has done it," as Therese puts it. Whether you're meeting up with friends or family or enjoying a date night, Therese says you'll be at home at Vieux Carré. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

n addition to a more casual dining experience, the selection of wines at Vieux Carré Market is decidedly more approachable, as well. The partners (early on recognized) that the Monroe audience was looking for a great value in their vino varieties. That's not to say Vieux Carré Market sacrifices quality. "We try to find wine that someone who is not used to drinking wine, who doesn't have an experienced palate, can go in, buy a $15 bottle of wine and be blown away by the experience," says Sammy Nagem of the selection of fine spirits. Vieux Carré Market is ideal for individuals who want to develop their palates without breaking the bank, and he says the staff at Vieux Carré knows just what you're looking for. Seek out Shane, the manager, for a bit of guidance. "You tell him what you're eating, what kind of flavor you're looking for and he'll find you a very affordable wine to fill that palate." Wines aren't the only place foodies can develop a taste for finer craft beverages. Through the main door, immediately to the left, an exposed, shelved cooler houses an assortment of unorthodox craft beers -- beers that tailor to those in search of unique tastes that exist outside of the everyday selections of convenience stores and super markets. As with the wine and hard liquor, each one is carefully selected based not only on its rarity in northeast Louisiana, but its positive reviews from other markets across the nation. Wine, beer and spirits aside, Vieux Carré Market is first and foremost about the food. And that food experience begins in one place: the cooler, which features Wagyu, the rare American-style Kobe Beef, the sought after product of Wagyu cattle bred with the traditional Angus cattle. For those fond of beef, whether a ribeye steak or traditional hamburger, the taste is beyond exceptional. "People who've tried it say it's the best steak they've ever had," Sammy says. It's high praise coming from one of Louisiana's most popular restaurateurs, but this beef lives up to the praise quite well. Like its Japanese cousin, Wagyu steaks sport a superior marbling, meaning each bite is

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high in that elusive sixth flavor, umami, which drives you to savor every bite as if it were the last. Not content with offering the best steak imaginable, though, the folks at Vieux Carré Market had another trick up their sleeves. When it came time to find a source, they didn't have to look very far. "The particular Wagyu that we carry is actually grown right in the Monroe area by Dr. Raines, called Raines beef," Sammy says. In other words, the Wagyu steaks at Vieux Carré Market are as close to farm-totable as you can get, unless of course, you're raising your own cows. High quality doesn't have to mean shipped in, a lesson Sammy is glad to bring to Monroe. "You can't get that beef anywhere else in northeast Louisiana. It's not available." Vieux Carré offers New York Strips, bone-in ribeyes and top sirloin in the Wagyu steaks. They also carry ground Wagyu, the Black Label Blend, which combines equal parts cross ribs, short ribs, brisket and chuck for the perfect burgers - all the ground meat is ground daily. For those craving a filet, the cooler is stocked with 1881

Beef Filet cuts, the highest certification available, higher even than the famed Black Angus beef. For something on the lighter side, the savory salads menu is beyond compare. Whether you're looking for a classic option (try the Caesar), or something with a little more zing (the Salad Trio), these signature salads are top notch. The Caesar Salad is served atop a bed of crisp greens and topped with your choice of grilled chicken, grilled or fried fish, or grilled shrimp, blackened fish or even fried oysters. The Trio Salad features a helping of Vieux Carré's signature Old School Chicken Salad, Sunburst Trout Salad and Pimento Cheese, all served atop hydroponic greens and crostini. With years of experience, the new owners of Vieux Carré Market pride themselves on being local and supporting other small, independent companies from across the nation. In their own words, it’s not just the importance of a wonderful, unique product, but the experience that goes along with it, from browsing to eating and drinking. All of these factors, which seem to be on the threshold of non-existence, are truly what set Vieux Carré Market apart from the mainstream markets that dot the streets and corners of every city. Therese credits her husband with much of the vision and leadership. "Sammy tells us what to do and we do it. We look to Sammy for guidance," she says frequently. But it is no secret that Vieux Carré Market is the brainchild of the three women, sisters and cousin, who enjoy the support of their husbands, Bart Liles and Bradley Hall. For his part, Sammy brings 28 years of restaurant experience to the operation, and if you've ever eaten in one of the four Sammy's Grill locations in south Louisiana, its hard to miss his influence. "It's not a Sammy's, but we have the same type of motivation as we have at Sammy's Grill. Whatever we do, we try to make it the best you can get," he says. To better know Vieux Carré Market and the products they offer, access them through your computer or smart phone. Well designed and user friendly, the website provides numerous ways in which to reach the staff, whether it be placing an order to go or arranging a catering service. However, you’ll want to visit first-hand and see the remarkable selections and staff. They’re located next door to Tuesday Morning and Fred’s Store and Pharmacy on North 18th Street in Monroe. It is a safe bet to assume that numerous items will not only attract your attention, but peak your curiosity. Which is kind of the point. The enthusiasm of the staff of Vieux Carré Market’s kitchen is evident in the first bite, further adding to the wonderful, albeit overdone, “Meltingly Tender” and “Cooked to Perfection” statements made by nearly all food critics. And, should you wish to have a private get together or meeting, simply call-in and reserve the Back Room, which seats up to ten people comfortably around a long table surrounded by wine racks and artwork, tucked away in the back corner to ensure near-absolute privacy. "The main thing we strive for, that we wanted to do when we started, is we wanted people to feel they could come by in any kind of dress, with their kids, without their kids, on their way to the lake, stop by, grab what they need, and then keep on going," Therese says. Lunch is served daily, and for a special treat, the restaurant offers dinner service Thursdays through Saturdays from 5PM to 8:30PM. It’s no exaggeration that very few restaurants outside Orleans Parish can deliver the authentic tastes of the “Big Easy” with such accuracy.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

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WORK IT OUT

Nine easy exercises you can do in the comfort of your own home

Push Up In a push up position, the feet should be up on toes and the hands should be slightly farther than shoulder width apart, extended. Inhale and lower the body down so that the elbows reach a 90 degree angle. Exhale and push back to the starting position.

Lunge Stand with one leg in front of the body and one behind. Inhale and lower the body down with the back knee to the floor while the front knee is at a 90 degree angle. Push through the front heel and exhale when returning to starting position.

Bicep Curls Stand with legs hip width apart, holding the bar with an underhand grip. (Note: keep elbows next to your side at all times during the movement) Inhale and lift the bar all the way and exhale and lower it back to the starting position.

Dead Lift Press Stand with legs shoulder width apart, knees slightly bent. Back should start at a 45 degree angle with arms hanging, holding the barbell with an overhand grip. Back should be flat at all times while inhaling and lowering arms as low as possible. (Note: keep the bar close to the legs, skimming them as you go down and back up). Reverse the movement and when starting position is reached, flip the bar and press up while exhaling. Return the bar to starting position.

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photography by Martin G Meyes Model: Janet Colvin, Personal Trainer at Monroe Athletic Club Clothes available at If the Crown Fits

Plank Get into a plank position with elbows on the floor. It should feel like a seatbelt is wrapped around your waist when you are in the correct position. Hold position for 30 sec. to one minute.

Upright Row Stand with legs shoulder width apart, and grab the barbell with an overhand grip. Inhale and pull the bar upward in front of body by raising the elbows as high as possible. Exhale and lower the bar back down.

Bent Over Row Stand with legs slightly bent, grab the barbell with an overhand grip slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Bend at the back at a 45 degree angle and slightly arch the back. Inhale and lift the bar up to the upper abdominals. Lower the bar back down and exhale.

Squat with Bar Place barbell on upper part of shoulders, holding it with a wide grip. Feet should be slightly farther than hip width apart, with toes slightly turned out. Inhale and lower the body until the legs reach a 90 degree angle in a sitting motion (Note: it is important that the weight is put on the heels; you should be able to wiggle your toes). Exhale and push through the heels back to starting position.

Dip Place hands on bench with elbows behind the body. Knees should be hip width apart and slightly bent. Lower the body by bending your elbows until the knees are at a 90 degree angle and raise back to starting position while exhaling. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

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BAYOUKIDZ

A Little Respect

B E R E S O L U T E I N PA R E N T I N G article by Cindy G. Foust

appy New Year BayouLife readers, I hope your holiday was filled with all things that were merry and bright. It’s hard to believe we are in beginning days of a new year, and quite frankly, that we are in the year 2016. I remember where my family was, at the midnight hour of 1999, also known as Y2K. I knew quite a few families who were bunkered down with their generators, their two sheds full of water and hard hats. My family, however, was engaged in a heated game of dominoes eating Rotel dip. If the world had come crashing down around us, we would have never known because we were sitting around my parents dining room table with intense faces and strategic moves, as if we were in the battle for the gold medal at the Dominoes Olympics. Fun times. And speaking of fun times, last month I found myself at the mall doing some Christmas shopping, along with the other 60,000 people who live in our community. Have I shared with my readers just how much I love to shop? The only fair comparison I can think of is I would rather have my eyeballs stabbed out with a fork. Is that too graphic for you? My apology first, but second, I just want my readers to understand my loathing of an activity that many people consider a sport. Blah. But, when Christmas is looming and there are no presents under the tree, I am forced to put on my game face, make my list and check it twice, and head to the place that many people believe to be “Utopia,” the mall. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love to give gifts. I just don’t like to shop for them. Well, unless I could buy everyone’s gift at Hobby Lobby, then I might be able to tolerate the whole shopping experience a little better. But, I don’t really think my son or my husband would appreciate a lamp or a nice throw pillow, so off to the mall I went. Speaking of Hobby Lobby, (because you know, my column wouldn’t be, well, my column if I didn’t chase a few rabbits) did anyone happen to visit there during the holidays when the wonderful man “ringing” the Salvation Army bells was there and singing Christmas carols? I tell you, it was very touching and nice. Anyway, where was I? Oh, I was at the mall, in a store, looking for the perfect gift. This month’s column lands me square in the middle of a department store, shopping with my little girl (who incidentally, loves to shop) and if I am honest, subjected to the worst tantrum I have ever witnessed 104 JANUARY 2016 | WWW.B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

in my life…by a teenager. I am trying to decide what color of scarf I want, and suddenly, the piercing, hateful sound of a teenager penetrated our ears. “Mother, that is the ugliest outfit I have ever seen. Don’t make another suggestion to me, you obviously have no taste.” What? Did I hear correctly? So I casually scoot closer to this wretched child, because I am convinced I am going to have to physically pull her mother off of her. Her mother responds, very quietly of course, “Honey, I am sorry, I was just trying to help you decide what to wear to the party.” Again, the daughter comes back with a venomous retort “Well, you would do better just to sit in the car. You think you know how to dress, but you don’t. I wish you had just stayed home.” I inched a little closer, dragging my 10-year old daughter with me, like we were the Cagney and Lacey of Pecanland Mall. The tired mother, who looks beat down and worn out, says nothing. What? What? I’m screaming in my head to let me do an intervention, but before I can say anything, the daughter says, “All my friends make fun of you. You embarrass me all the time.” At this point readers, the intervention was inevitable. I will apologize first, if this perfect stranger and her daughter were any of you, but the Ollie Caples Road girl came out of me when I looked at the tired, sad mother and made myself a big ole’ “Buttinsky” (wouldn’t be my column without a made up word). I won’t direct quote the “rest of the story” but the ending had the little teenager apologizing to her mother. Was I wrong? I don’t have any idea, but the picture of the beat down mother and the antagonistic child was more than I could bear. I will say that I was polite and respectful, but firm. For you see, I grew up in an era where respect was not an option, it was an expectation, a requirement. I have no idea if this child’s mother had always let her act like this or if it was an isolated incident, but I have my suspicions it had been going on since childhood. Again, what? I am sure their family is sitting around their dining table talking about the strange woman who nosed into their business during a shopping outing, but the mother in me came out and the Ollie Caples Road that is deeply rooted in my fabric just took over. Don’t judge until you are the one standing in the department store holding two scarves and the next thing you know you are playing family counselor. But it made me wonder, later that night, is this the voice of the next generation? Is this how kids treat their parents these days? Well, not at my house, nor anyone I co-parent with, but was I wrong? I’m not sure, but it certainly made me have my daily parenting check. I don’t know if this was an isolated incident for this young girl, and I don’t know if it’s her normal behavior if it can be reversed, but I am positive that as a parent, we have control over our kids. We have the authority and the power to make our expectations known, and exercise our authority when they don’t comply. I’m not broaching the subject EVER in this column of spanking versus not spanking, because I, well, enjoy writing for BayouLife and want to keep doing so. But I think I can safely advocate for parents getting control early, and staying in control of their children’s behavior. I suppose I should have consulted one of my family counselor friends, got some pointers or did my usual research. But I didn’t. No, this month, I chose to use my common parenting sense and share my personal experience, as I do every month, in an effort to strike a cord with my readers and encourage my fellow parents to instill the simple act of respect into their parenting portfolio. And I bet you thought this month’s column would be about making New Year’s resolutions, or how I hoped my editor was going to get me a nice watch in honor of my three-year anniversary at BayouLife. No, rather than resolutions and watches, I chose to write about “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” and now you know “what it means to me.” Happy New Year BayouLife community, I hope it’s one filled with joy, love, peace and of course, respect.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

105

BEYOND

SKIN DEEP Monroe native Dr. Timothy Mickel reflects on his journey from St. Christopher's Day School to Parkland Dallas to the back porch of his Garden District office. Along the way, he shares insights into compassion, overcoming adversity, and what makes a good roux. But don't think it's all about vanity for this plastic surgeon, because under the surface is where the real stuff of life can be found.

article by MICHAEL DEVAULT photography by BRAD ARENDER

t the dawn of the 20th Century, just as America shed the adolescence of the Civil War and was beginning to show glimmers of the miracles she would accomplish in the coming decades, a tiny island in Upper New York Bay served as the gateway to all the hope and promise that the New World had to offer. From the day Ellis Island opened in 1892 until it closed in 1954, some 12 million hopefuls passed through, setting out to find their American dream under the watchful gaze of the Statue of Liberty. Sometime near the turn of the century, one of the many who passed through was a young Lebanese man, Joseph Mickel. "He was a peddler, who went from community to community, tending to gravitate to people who spoke Arabic," says Timothy Mickel, his grandson. Joseph eventually made his way to Dermott, Arkansas, where he met a group of Arabicspeaking Lebanese immigrants. One of them, a young woman, caught his eye. He married Sarah Haddad, and together they set out building their American family. More than 100 years later, Timothy Mickel--still Timmy to his friends--is one of dozens of descendants and relatives of this uniting of the Mickel-Haddad clan who still call northeastern Louisiana home. These days, few Mickels speak Arabic, a product of diligent assimilation into the American lifestyle. "The only affect it's had on me is that I can make mean cabbage rolls, know how to do kibbie and I can make tabouli," Mickel tells BayouLife, recalling that his grandmother and great aunts frequently spoke Arabic, but that was about it. "It was just not an emphasis at all. My father was completely Americanized." For Mickel, his ethnic background underscores the importance of that American ideal, what drove his grandfather to come to the country in the first place. "What's interesting is that, like most of the immigrants of their day, they looked at America as a land of opportunity, worked hard and instilled a work ethic in their children," Mickel says. That work ethic began to show itself at an early age in little Timmy, who like so many other members of his family, 108 JANUARY 2016 | WWW.B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

â&#x20AC;&#x153;If there are a couple of seminal events that make you who you are, shape you as an adult, going to Vanderbilt was one for me.â&#x20AC;? ~ DR. TIMOTHY MICKEL would go on to become a pillar of the community, taking part in community service projects, volunteering his talent and skills as a surgeon to help the less fortunate and investing his time and resources to bringing events and opportunities to the Twin Cities that improve the region's livability. A consummate Louisiana man, Mickel is just as likely to be found around the fire at the hunting camp as he is to be hosting a weekly men's prayer group that has met on the back porch of his Garden District office every Monday morning for the last 15 years. He and his wife, Stephanie, are empty nesters these days, and they busy themselves with a bevy of social and charitable functions. At the heart of everything he does, though, is a core of service to community that comes from that most American of roots, the desire to take advantage of

opportunity when it arises. For a myriad of professional accomplishments, more than two decades of community service and for being a beacon of kindness and civility in the community, Timothy Mickel is every bit a Bayou Icon. From an early age, Mickel exhibited the entrepreneurial spirit and drive that have served him well as Monroe's premier plastic surgeon. He attended St. Christopher's Day School and Grace Episcopal, but by the time his freshman year rolled around, times were changing. Desegregation was the order of the day, and the way Monroe City Schools opted to comply was to create a 9th Grade Center at Carroll High School. Students who would eventually attend Neville or Wossman for their sophomore, junior and senior years were shunted into Carroll for their freshman years. For

many families on Monroe's upper northside, this meant a year at one of the area's private schools. But not for the Mickel household. "My parents made me stick it out," Mickel recalls. It was a decision that had profound and lasting impact on the man he would eventually become. These were trying times for a community that had, until just months before, been almost completely segregated along racial lines, and no one from any community was pleased with the manner in which the system had undertaken the task of integrating the schools. "I learned volumes about life, about dealing with adversity and about how to get along. It really was an interesting experience." In adversity, there is almost always opportunity, and it didn't take long for Timmy to find it. For reasons passing understanding, the food service situation at the 9th Grade Center was less than ideal. Where other schools boasted full cafeterias, nourishment and at least passable meals, that wasn't the case at Carroll. Mickel puts it bluntly. "The food sucked," he says with a laugh.

So Mickel borrowed a page from the family tree and began to capitalize on this hidden opportunity. He began packing extra sandwiches each morning in his lunch bag, sandwiches he would in turn sell to his classmates for a quarter. Pretty soon, he was able to parlay his popularity into a fledgling enterprise that produced, in his words, a pocketful of money. It seemed a future in the food industry might just have been in his future, and were it not for the intervention of a vigilant teacher, the world might not have known Dr. Timothy Mickel. It happened one morning when it came time to distribute orders and his teacher told the class to take out their lunches. While some students produced small lunch boxes, brown paper bags and carefully wrapped waxpaper sandwiches, Mickel plopped a large bag on his desk, which drew the attention of his teacher, who inquired about the bag's contents. "She blew the whistle," Mickel says. "She somehow thought there was something wrong with that." Even absent the teacher's intervention in clandestine sandwich sales, Mickel's career as a sandwich maven was doomed to shortness, rendered terminal by his father's attentiveness to the family grocery stock. Dad had realized they were using far more cheese, lunch meat and bread than usual, and he raised the subject with his son. With a businessman's attention to costs, he presented his son with a detailed cost analysis. Between bread, meat, cheese, condiment and wrapping, each sandwich ran about twenty cents to make. Selling a sandwich for a nickel's profit didn't appeal to Timmy, and he knew better than to expect his classmates to cough up half a buck for lunch. "It was a real business lesson. You can't just make 100 percent profit," Mickel says. When he arrived at Neville the following year, Mickel joined a host of student organizations. One of those organizations, Interact, enjoyed a rather unique weekly responsibility. They served Shasta duty. Every Friday, a group of Neville's best would load up Shasta, a live Bengal tiger, at the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, transport him across town to the high school and then tend the school's mascot at pep rallies and football games. Mickel marvels now that they repeated this trip nu-

merous times without injury or incident, noting no one ended up in a ditch or bitten, scratched or mauled. Such was life 40 years ago. "Those were fun times," he says. "I was sitting on top of the tiger cage when they beat Airline in '72, the year when we had to win three times in a week." About the same time he was tending the tiger, the Interact president took the SAT--something students did just once in those days. He scored well, and that's when "the best thing that ever happened to me" happened. Vanderbilt University came calling. "If there are a couple of seminal events that make you who you are, shape you as an adult, going to Vanderbilt was one for me," says Mickel of his acceptance to the prestigious school. An internationally renowned university, Vanderbilt in the 1970s offered his first introductions to individuals from around the country and around the world. For a young man from Monroe, Vanderbilt was an eye opener, exposing him to the world of possibilities that existed beyond his tiny hometown. At the same time, the school's academic rigor required hard work and diligence. Success at Vanderbilt comes at a price. "I developed intellectual discipline there because you're around people who are smart, have been to good prep schools and that really makes you want to learn," Mickel says. His hard work paid off when, four years later, he was accepted to LSU Medical School in New Orleans. For just $800 a year, a medical student could attend classes at the school and tend patients in Charity Hospital, known affectionately as "Big Charity" to the medical community. At the time, it was the largest charity hospital in the country and one of the top medical centers in the south. A teaching hospital, Big Charity student-doctors were exposed to virtually every possible medical challenge imaginable. The hospital was among the best in the country. "When you think of those types of training programs, you think about Cook County Hospital-Chicago, Grady in Atlanta, Parkland in Dallas and Charity in New Orleans," Mickel said. At Charity, it wasn't just about sitting back and listening. Instead, student-doctors were hands on with patients, practicing medicine in the purest sense under a "see one, do one, teach one" model of instruction.

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"They threw you in there. You had to think on your feet, respond quickly, and assimilate not only a vast amount of book knowledge but technical skills," Mickel says. For a young doctor, practicing medicine at Big Charity could be a harrowing experience. "I spent a lot of sleepless nights worried that I was going to kill somebody. I think that gives you that level of sphincter tone that gives you the skills to be a better doctor." hile at Charity, Mickel developed a love for ear, nose and throat practice, or ENT. At the time, the best ENT program in the country was at the University of Iowa, which accepted just five percent of applicants. Mickel ranked among that five percent. But first, he would have to spend a year fulfilling the prerequisite general surgery practice. Doing so took him to a second iconic hospital, one with a long entry in the history books and a place that would help to write his future. That hospital was Parkland. Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas ranks among the most iconic healthcare facilities in the nation. Owning in part to its central proximity to the assassination of President John Kennedy, Parkland's surgery program is a well-known and highly respected residency. One key factor set the hospital apart and played a major role in shaping Mickel's career. Comprehension of the full scope of Parkland's import requires understanding the pyramid model followed by most surgical residencies. In a pyramid model, perhaps twenty doctors are accepted. At the end of the first period, five doctors are eliminated in a process that will repeat until, at last, just five are graduated from the program. At Parkland, everyone works together, diligently and with dedication, to ensure that all of the doctors accepted complete the program. "That program was such a green beret kind of surgery program. So much esprit de corps," Mickel says. If ten doctors started the program, Parkland expected ten to finish. "It really fostered a lot of camaraderie." Mickel completed his general surgery training and embarked on a career as an ENT, entering the program in Iowa City. Every day, he spent hours in clinic, and he

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quickly realized his practice was missing something. Where at Parkland every trauma patient came through his doors and he was the triage doctor on alternating nights, spending time with the critically ill and wounded, at Iowa City he spent hours in clinic surrounded by runny noses, the headached and the dizzy. "I just couldn't stay there. I went back into general surgery." Back at Parkland, Mickel jokes, he was "probably the only guy to ever go back into general surgery." Leaving a lucrative specialty like ENT for the life of a trauma surgeon wasn't something that happened every day, and his colleagues noticed. "They thought I was nuts," he laughs. After Parkland, he spent time at the VA, at Baylor, and at Children's Hospital, where he fell in love with the work of plastic surgery. "That was probably the second, after going to Vanderbilt, big intellectual awakening I had," says Mickel. One of the guiding philosophies of general surgery is "never let the skin get in the way of a diagnosis or treatment," but in plastic surgery, the emphasis shifts. "Suddenly the emphasis wasn't on getting it done. It was getting it done right in an aesthetically pleasing way, in a way where there wasn't just function, but form

-- to borrow an architectural term," Mickel said. With plastic surgery, Mickel discovered a way to help individuals in a wholly novel way. Plastic surgery offered Mickel the opportunity to help people fulfill their personal visions inside and out. He shrugs off suggestions that plastic surgery can be vanity, noting that many times a month he's called in to consult in area emergency rooms on how best to treat visible wounds to prevent scarring. At the same time, plastic surgeons are also called upon to treat any of a host of birth defects, including cleft lip and palate. Still, the heart of his practice is elective cosmetic surgery, an area of practice that many find superficial. That's rarely the case, according to Mickel. "There is only a small shred of difference between wanting to look your best in designer clothes, to want to put your best foot forward, and to having a chin implant so that your face is more proportional," Mickel says. In such situations, the patient often finds a renewed confidence that helps to unlock their inner sense of self-worth. His example patient is a well-adjusted woman who, because of breast size, is a wallflower. "In the wintertime, things aren't so bad, but when it comes time to put a bathing suit on, she's extremely self conscious about that. The guy is also self-con-

scious because, maybe, he's a little chubby. He can work out. She can't." Mickel's practice is about taking that woman, spending an hour in the operating room and, without engaging in anything gaudy or over-the-top, helping her outwardly reach her inner self. "She becomes confident, less of a wall flower and the potential that was there before is unleashed," Mickel says. He makes a similar argument about facelifts. As the healthy age of maturity has grown increasingly later, individuals have maintained healthy lifestyles well into their 70s and 80s. "If you feel like you're 35, but you look like you're 70, there's nothing wrong with bringing your face, neck and jawline with the way the rest of you feels," Mickel says. "It's not necessarily about vanity. It's about being who you are." In almost every facet of Mickel's life, vanity is absent. Whether the task at hand is a tummy tuck or serving coffee to the men's group, Mickel approaches his work with a humility and compassion that have helped him succeed on the numerous boards and committees he's served. If vanity enters into Mickel's personality anywhere, it's when talk turns to the couple's brood of five children. All grown now, Mickel can't help but break into a bit of fatherly pride when discussing the successes of each of his children. The couple's oldest is Jennifer, who completed her first degree at Princeton, a feat she followed up with studies at the American University in Cairo and a stint with a Washington, D.C. NGO before being stationed in Swaziland. Now 30, Jennifer is enrolled in a joint MBA/JD program at Northwestern, in Chicago. He describes their second child, Johnny, as a "goodtime Charlie" who completed an agri-business degree at LSU in a surprising five years before entering the oil and gas commodities trade. Twins Becky and Katie are the Mickels' study in contradiction. Where Becky is a "girly girl," Katie is laid back. Becky earned a degree in journalism and now works for Martha Stewart Weddings in Hoboken. Katie, who majored in Latin am. Culture and Spanish at the University of Georgia, ultimately graduating summa cum laude, is at LSU, studying for a Masters in Latin American studies. Eventually, he thinks,

she'll teach at college level. Timmy and Stephanie's youngest child, son David, followed his father's path to Tennessee for his undergraduate. But instead of enrolling at Vanderbilt, David earned a Bachelor's degree in English from Sewannee, the University of the South. These days, David is making his way in Austin, Texas, and Mickel expects his youngest son will eventually end up in graduate school as well. Talking about his kids, Timmy's youthful pride and boisterousness comes out. "People ask me about my kids, and I tell them what they're doing, and I'm almost embarrassed. They think I'm making it up," he says. But he stops shy of taking any credit for the way the Mickel kids turned out. In-

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The kids really are a tribute to their mother. They were with someone who was intellectual, articulate and cared about them.â&#x20AC;? ~ DR. MICKEL

stead, that credit goes immediately to Stephanie. "They really are a tribute to their mother. They were with someone who was intellectual, articulate and cared about them." Like Timmy, Stephanie graduated from Vanderbilt. "She could have done anything, but she chose to stay at home and take care of our children," Mickel says. It was a decision he still admires today--and the single most important factor in the success of their children, as he sees it. "It's one of those things. You can't say enough about her, can't put a price on it." With the kids all out of the house, he and Stephanie busy their time with the charities, the civic groups and the church activities that they're most passionate about. One of the areas the Mickels have

committed considerable effort to is historical preservation. In addition to a major commitment to keeping his practice in the Garden District, Mickel also maintains interests in other historical properties. "It's about preserving the historical integrity with several of the districts of our community. That's got really far reaching consequences when you step back and look at the historical picture," Mickel says. Historical preservation isn't about keeping things the way they were so much as it is about maintaining reminders of where a community came from. He quotes architect Doug Breckenridge, noting "a city that decides not to preserve its architecture erases its history." He and Stephanie are also avid supporters of the United Way, volunteer at the soup kitchen and other high-impact charities. "I think that philanthropic organizations that have a low administrative overhead, where the money you give goes to actually helping and not to administrative costs, those are important." At the heart of everything is the couple's church, First Presbyterian, where they worship and serve. Mickel is quick to dismiss any sense of spotlight on his faith. "I don't profess to be holier than anyone, and in fact, I can be a model Pharisee," Mickel says. "But in this crazy world we live in, I fall back on this spiritual foundation every day." Thirty years into his career, he's still hard at work making the world a more beautiful place. For the last twenty years, one of his most fulfilling roles has been as the medical director of the cleft lip and palate clinic. Through the clinic, Mickel has treated hundreds of children born with a deformed lip or palate. "It's gratifying, at this stage of life, to see children I repaired fifteen, twenty years ago, that have grown up to be productive adults with a normal appearance." The wife, the kids, the career, the philanthropy, if all of this isn't enough to make for a full, wonderful life, the next time you bump into Timmy at Brookshires, just be sure to ask him about a roux--because he's an avid cook, too.

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Downtown Gallery Crawl

On Thursday, December 3, art enthusiasts walked the streets of downtown Monroe checking out local artists’ work in venues on Art Alley and Antique Alley. The Palace Gallery hosted several local artisans selling their goods for Christmas shoppers. Libby Gifford was on hand with her delightful kids’ t-shirt line, Cozy Mosie as well as ceramicist, Gary Ratcliff. Shannan Inman of Paperglaze Calligraphy was also selling her gorgeous hand-lettered signs and holiday cards. At Arender Gallery, Joey Slaughter had several new pieces hung on the walls. UPSTAIRS gallery hosted artists Selina Akter along with Ali Hijazi and E J Cruz. The next Downtown Gallery Crawl is scheduled for Thursday, February 4, 2016.

On the BayouScene

1 Evie Stewart and Gregory Hudgins 2 Sara and Robert Brewer, Frank Elkins, Nichole Amman, Lindsay Jones and Joey Slaughter 3 Steve and Maré Brennan 4 Stella and Beverly Land, Libby Giﬀord 5 Kelsea McCrary and Brad Arender 6 Melanie Douthit, Leah and Mac Reitzell 7 Katharine and Daven Spires 8 Gailin Heller, Bryant Letson and Michele Lowentritt 9 Joey Slaughter and Brad Arender 10 Melanie and Tommy Usrey 11 Faruk Mir and Harold Russell 12 Mikki Pilgrim-Roach, Amy Hedges, Monique Amundson, Linette Calvo and Leazel McDonald 13 Tess Stickney, Karl Puljak, Whitney Causey and Evan Helams 14 Jenny Ellerbe, Sara Boyd and Anna Schriefer 15 Rabab and Noh Moqer, Selina Akter 16 Robert Hendrix and Robert Riddle 17 Julianne Tippen and Jordan Ward

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Up on the Rooftop, Down by the River

On Saturday, December 5, Monroe Renaissance hosted its annual “Up on the Rooftop Party.” Due to the Vantage Parking Garage being under construction, this year’s party was held “Down by the River” in the Vantage Ballroom. Partygoers enjoyed drinks from Marsala Beverage, Choice Brands and Glazer’s, noshed on food from Dan’s BBQ and danced the night away to the tunes of Code Blue and the Flatliners. The Origin Bank Christmas Fireworks Extravaganza went off with a bang with everyone viewing the show from Bry Park. This event is a favorite holiday party to be seen at – even Santa and Mrs. Claus were in the crowd!

On the BayouScene

1 Jessica Pollard and Josh Goldman 2 Lori Marion and Nancy Miller 3 Emily Napper, Lauryn Brooks and Kelsey Moore 4 Evelyn Maguire, Fran and Lindy Matthews 5 Win and Lisa Eckert 6 Craig Pean and Tracey Taylor 7 Tony Arpino and Dr. Judy Fellows 8 Roz Janway, Onna and Alan Gallagher 9 Rick Lee and Anita Dean 10 Patrick and Chelsy Demers, David and Molly Beneﬁeld 11 Cindy Treadwell, Darlene Johnson and Maddie Comeaux 12 Erik Meza, Amanda Miller, Amber Sims and Manny Torres 13 Dejuana and Bill Simpson 14 Cory Brown and Carolyn Cummins 15 Jennifer Gibson and Jennifer Sawyer 16 Brooke Foy, Kelsea McCrary and Michael Echols 17 Billy Haddad, Matt West and Carrie and Rick Siudy 18 Lynne and Blake LeBlanc

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Portico 9th Anniversary

On November 25th, Portico Restaurant and Bar of Monroe celebrated their 9th anniversary with a rip roaring party for their very grateful patrons. Guests were treated to complimentary hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres such as brisket sliders and crab beignets. Choice Brands was also on hand to do a sampling of some delicious craft brews and hand out some always popular beer swag. Yalobusha Blues Trail Farmhouse Ale and Abita Bourbon Street Coffee Stout were among the offerings. Later in the evening, the party kicked up a notch when local favorite musicians James Simpson and Vince Chao were joined by Jim Payne of Better than Ezra fame. The trio kept the crowd dancing late into the evening as owner Stephen Walker expressed his thanks and appreciation for the years of support from the community. With an updated menu and new selection of craft beers and cocktails, Portico is going strong into their 10th year as one of Monroeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular gathering spots.

On the BayouScene

1 Justin and Jackie Guerriero 2 Carol-Anne Barnes, Nicole Harris and Andy Harbor 3 Will Shelby, James Earl Simpson, Mary Simpson and Stewart Shelby 4 Karen Endsley, Tommy and Kelly Jackson, CJ Hawkins and Ellie Jackson 5 Gina Greenwood and Phillip Strickland 6 Charese and Spence Audridge 7 Richmond McGough and Greg McGough 8 Anna Claire Kelly, Julie Henley, Leslie Kennedy and Landyn Young 9 Natalie Sutor and Leslie Culp 10 Keith McGough, Delia Simpson and Kurt McEnery 11 Daniel Ardito, Jason Aycock, Stephen Walker, Michah Perry, Peyton Jones and Brent Vallery 12 Mimi Rutledge, Sara Deshotels and Missy McNabb 13 Anna Beth Chao, Vince Chao and Delia Simpson 14 Gina Greenwood, Lori Spence, Amy Southern and Christy Stidham 15 Jim Payne, Stephen Walker and James Earl Simpson 16 Audrey Malloy and Brent Wilkes

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LAISSEZ LES BON TEMPS ROULER The beads are ordered, the floats are painted, and the Krewe of Janus is ready to roll. But first, it's time to meet the King and the Queen. article by MICHAEL DEVAULT and photography by MARTIN G MEYERS

he Louisville Avenue float barn is cold, but frigid temperatures haven't deterred the dozens of volunteers who are working tirelessly to put on the biggest show in northeastern Louisiana. Readying the dozens of floats, ordering hundreds of pounds of beads and recruiting all of the sponsors and volunteers is a hard job. But every year since 1984, the men and women of the Krewe of Janus have undertaken this mammoth task in order to produce the annual Mardi Gras parade. The time between Christmas and Mardi Gras is always a hectic one, but thanks to the eccentricities of the lunar calendar and an early Easter, 2016 provides an added challenge for the Krewe of Janus, which traditionally holds the Monroe celebration on the Saturday of the week before the New Orleans parades. That means this year's parade will roll January 30. For Michael Brown and Lucy Holtzclaw, that means they're in for the most hectic weeks of their lives as the pair reigns over the 2016 parade, Queen Janus XXXIII. For Brown, the parade also means a time for the area to show the rest of the world just what good times look like. "It's a way for Monroe to put

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something on a stage and say 'Here's what we can do,' " Brown said. A nurse practitioner at St. Francis Community Health Center, Brown's schedule was already pretty busy. He certainly is surprised to be where he is, especially given his path to the throne. It all began three years ago, with a phone call from an old friend, Lynn LeBlanc, who sponsored him to join the crew. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She was the first person I met when I moved to town in 1991," he said. A student in NLU's nursing program, Brown had come to Monroe from Arkansas. He's been here ever since, enjoying the family life with his wife, Tara, and their two sons, Tyler and Davis. LeBlanc's call came at just the right moment for Brown, who says he has a heart for service. "I've always been someone who likes to volunteer, and that's why I joined, to do something for the community." It's a sentiment echoed by Holtzclaw, who not only operates a successful photography business in Sterlington, but who also serves on the Sterlington Town Council and as mayor pro tempore. For eight years, she's volunteered with the Krewe of Janus and their many charitable activities. Before she was a member, though, her company, Holtzclaw Photography, was one of the krewe's cor-

porate members. "It's a fun, celebratory time, but we also get to show our community what the krewe is all about, what it does in the community," said Holtzclaw. Aside from presiding over the 2016 Mardi Gras parade, their majesties undertake extensive public outreach on behalf of the organization, and they'll appear at dozens of nursing homes and schools over the course of the year. "I think that's going to be the really fun part," said Holtzclaw. "I'm really looking forward to visiting the nursing homes and schools. I'm all about the kids!" While most people think the king and queen only show up for the parade and a couple of media appearances, reigning is a year-long commitment. Not only are there school and nursing home visits, the king and queen are integral components of the krewe machinery, working throughout the year on outreach, fundraising and krewe management. In addition, King and Queen Janus are frequently invited to reign over community Mardi Gras events, as they do every year at the ULM Mardi Gras Ball. Brown notes it's a big commitment, but the time and energy are well worth it. "The whole process has been the fun part," Brown said.

With just a few days before the official kickoff of their reign, King and Queen Janus XXXIII are busy putting the finishing touches on their regalia, the ceremonial outfits they'll wear when appearing on behalf of the krewe. Bedazzlers beware, though, because Mardi Gras gowns and tunics take the bling to a whole new level. And those costumes will be unveiled--officially, at least--at the annual Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Ball on Twelfth Night. Then, it's off to the races--or to the parade, at least. Twelfth Night, celebrated annually on Jan. 5, marks the twelfth and final night of the Christmas holiday celebration, which officially ends Jan. 6 with Epiphany. From there, King and Queen Janus XXXIII will make myriad stops around the community, appearing on television and radio, giving interviews and attending events, all the while preparing for the big day. Once the floats are decorated, the beads all hung on pegs and the masks readied, the trucks rumble to life and the parade rolls. Making sure it all goes off without a hitch is the job of parade captains Steve Turner, Keith Joyner and Debbie Coplen. It's their job to order the floats, supervise the lineup and ride the route to make sure everything keeps moving. Coplen understands the responsibility that comes with the job of staging a major tourist event. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Krewe of Janus parade is one of the top one-day events in northeast Louisiana," Coplen said. "With that notoriety, it brings in hundreds and hundreds of people who come in to stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, shop in our stores, all before the parade begins." The Monroe/West Monroe Convention and Visitorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bureau, one of the parade sponsors, frequently places the parade at the top of its list of events that draw visitors to the community. At the same time, locals spend more shop more, and that has a major impact on local businesses. "We bring a pretty big event and that helps our economy here in the Twin Cities," Coplen said. In a very real way, the parade is a community-wide event. Dozens of sponsors come together with volunteers, and the route runs throughout Monroe and West Monroe. Last year, the krewe restored part of the route to downtown Monroe, which was a resounding success. "We had quite a crowd down there," Coplen said. "It was not quite New Orleans, but it had that type of atmosphere." A full map of the parade route is available on the Krewe of Janus website. The 33rd Annual Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade rolls January 30, with the Children's Parade and Pet Parade held earlier that morning. King and Queen Janus XXXIII are ready, and Coplen said she's looking forward to a massive crowd shouting, "throw me something, mister!" 118 JANUARY 2016 | W WW. BAYO UL IFEM AG. C OM

United Way Celebration

A celebration honoring the Steamboat Society and Alexis de Tocqueville Society was held on Thursday, November 19 at the home of Cyndy and John Perry. The Steamboat Society was created in 1987 by United Way of Northeast Louisiana to recognize individuals and families who provide leadership through their generous contributions. Today, individual community leaders serve as the moving force that helps to build a thriving, interdependent community. The Steamboat Society has been a major factor in the overall success of United Way of Northeast Louisiana’s fund raising efforts and reflects the commitment of an individual’s or couple’s dedication to improving the quality of life in our community.

On the BayouScene

1 Eugene and Vada Montgomery with John and Cyndy Perry 2 Traci Canterbury, Lynn and James Moore and Bruce Hanks 3 Bill and Cathy Cheek with Carol Hanks 4 Larry and Peggy Rogers with Stephanie and Nat Smith 5 Paulen Luttgeharm with David and Dianne Moore 6 Michael and Erica Ryan 7 Brian Moreau with Diana and Jay Russell 8 Dixon Abell, Helen Abell Tuft, Kay and Hugh McDonald 9 Paula Burgess and Ashley McTurner 10 Wesley and Emily Martin with Arabella and James Moore 11 Bob and Janet Durden with Jamie and Quentin Holmes 12 Brian Moreau, Ricky and Lynna Caples, Linda and Eric Liew 13 Cathy Whatley and Ashley West 14 Hugh and Kay McDonald with Nancy Inabnett

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Big Whit Wish List Event

On Thursday December 3, the Big Whit Foundation held its second annual Wish List Event. The nonprofit foundation invited ten families from Ouachita and Lincoln parishes to Chuck E. Cheese for pizza and games. 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.

On the BayouScene

1 Gary and Sandy Stokley, and Kenny Guillot 2 James Breaux, Jamie Orten and Chuck E. Cheese 3 Eucaw, Kelly and Nola Sharpton 4 Peyton Bush, Dante Williams and Noah Cagle 5 Seth Hall and Victoria Bowie 6 Judah Sharpton and Hadley Scwartz 7 Josh Faciane and Will Daniels 8 Kelli and Nick Herzog 9 Amy Stegall and Shelley Clark 10 Laila and Angie Cagle 11 Destiny, Rachelle Leiken and Lesley Atkins 12 Hope Dawlik and Bryce 13 Jace Futch and Hogan Areiy 14 Dominique Allen, Alexis Gordon and AndrĂŠ Phillips 15 Michael Mims, Tivon Nash and Paul Turner 16 Trent Taylor and Caden Herzog 17 Sean Williams and LaKeisha Jones 18 Julie Ruddick and Rick Guillot

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Holiday Open House Randy Smith Jewelers hosted their annual holiday open house on Thursday, December 3 at their shop on Justice Street in Monroe. Visitors were invited to shop some of the exquisite vintage and antique jewelry and mark some items off their Christmas list. Randy Smith and his crew have over 80 years of experience in the fine jewelry business so we know Santa checked in with them when it came to dashing diamonds, beautiful bracelets and extraordinary earrings.

On the BayouScene

1 Diane Cage, Claire Brockman and Mike Cage 2 Randy Smith, Doug Norman and Wes Brockman 3 Elspie Franklin, Denise Smith, Virginia Ann Reeves and Julie McIntosh 4 Susan Sevier and Pat Jordan 5 Laura and Zak Marchelos 6 J.W., Megan and Rivers Perry 7 Kathy Schendle and Ramona Caldwell 8 Paige Ensminger, Traci Norman and Denise Smith 9 Brenda Marsala and Mandy Pruitt

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Holiday Meet and Greet Dr. Mickel and his staff hosted a holiday meet and greet on December 1, 2015 at Genusaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Italian Restaurant. Visitors were treated to a presentation showcasing different products and procedures that Mickel Plastic Surgery has to offer. The staff was available to answer any questions and they even raffled off prizes. Guests enjoyed the delicious food and drinks from Genusaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s throughout the evening.

On the BayouScene

1 Emily Roberson, Dr. Timothy Mickel and Hope McLemore 2 Ginger Valentine and Suzanne Smith 3 Natalie Green and Carrie Siudy 4 Jan Russo and Joy Loomis 5 Tammie Ball and Amy Grassi 6 Sarah Raymond, Dr. Timothy Mickel and Carrie Siudy 7 Darline Smith and Judy Johnson

Open House and Book Signing On Thursday, December 10, the ladies at Material Things hosted a holiday open house and book signing event at their shop on Forsythe Avenue. Their special guest was Rebecca Vizard, who signed copies of her recently published book, Once Upon A Pillow. In addition to her book, Rebecca had her pillows, Christmas stockings and designer dog collars available for purchase.

On the BayouScene

1 Christine Gillikin and Amanda McDonald 2 Karen Cooper and Daina Morris 3 Joyce Sims, Peggy Gonzales and Becky Vizard 4 Michael and Becky Vizard 5 Shane Bridges, Beverly Joiner, Shelly Harrell and Becky Vizard 6 Doris Neal, Delores Johnson and Sharon Brown 7 Duddy Garrett and Anne Patten

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Customer Appreciation 3B Outdoor Equipment recently hosted a Customer Appreciation Day at their location on Ferrand Street in Monroe. Matt Bridges and Andrew Brown are the new owners and wanted to show their appreciation for their loyal customers. Everyone enjoyed on hand demonstrations from brand representatives, fried catfish from Randallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catering and giveaways and door prizes.

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On the BayouScene

1 David Stanley, Trey Boyd and Matt Bridges 2 Barry Edwards and Jay McEachern 3 Ethan Hunt and Andrew Brown 4 Kevin Washington and Brian Drayton 5 John Hunter and Matt Bridges 6 Andrew and Kathy Brown 7 Jim McGee and Greg Welch 8 Jenny Kimbough, Rose Lewis and George Booth 9 Gerald Neighbors and Mike Carter 10 Kenny and Jane Brown 11 Rick Thomas and Dale Worsham

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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 3 Tool Demonstration Time: 1:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. Come and watch the rangers demonstrate the tools used by early inhabitants to build, hunt and create other articles used in their culture. Venue: Poverty Point World Heritage Site Admission Cost: $4 per person Phone: 888-926-5492 Web: www.crt.state.la.us/louisianastate-parks/historic-sites/povertypoint-state-historic-site/ January 9 Building is for the Birds Time: 1:00 p.m. Join the site ranger as he discusses blue birds, which we can attract into our yards by simply encouraging nesting. Following the discussion, materials will be available for everyone to build a standard blue bird box. Venue: Poverty Point World Heritage Site Admission Cost: $4 per person Phone: 888-926-5492 Web: crt.state.la.us/parks/ipvertypt.aspx Free Children's Drop-In Activity at the Masur Time: 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Drop by the museum any time between 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. on the scheduled day. Children will work on an art project that relates either through subject matter, medium, or technique, to the exhibition currently on display. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org January 10 WWE Live Time: 5:00 p.m. WWE will be live at the Monroe Civic Center on Sunday, January 10th. Venue: Monroe Civic Center Admission Cost: Ticket prices vary

Phone: 318-329-2225 Web: www.ci.monroe.la.us/monroe-civic-center.php January 12 Well Worn Truths: Panel Discussion Time: 5:30 p.m.-6:15 p.m. This panel discussion focus on the exhibition Well Worn Truths. CoCurators Vitus Shell, Masur Studio Artist, and Benjamin M. Hickey, Curator of Collections and Exhibitions, will discuss the curatorial process, as well as the artists and their work. Select exhibiting artists will also participate. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org January 15-16 Heartfelt Experience, More Than a Conference Time: Friday 7:00-10:00 p.m.; Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. This event will be held at First West, West Monroe Campus in West Monroe, LA. Featured will be Heartfelt Ministry founder, Dr. Joneal Kirby, the Women of Duck Commander (and Sadie and Mia, too), along with Shellie Tomlinson, Mary Snyder, Mindy Lancaster and musical guest, Jeremy Camp and his wife Adie. The more intimate and lovely atmosphere at First West will make this Heartfelt Experience a truly blessed event! Venue: First Baptist Church of West Monroe Admission Cost: Ticket prices vary Phone: 318-372-3177 AG EXPO 2016 Time: Friday: 2:00-8:00 p.m.; Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 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

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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 15-17 Antique Show Time: Friday and Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Sunday 12:00 p.m.5:00 p.m. 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: $5 Web: www.ci.monroe.la.us January 16 Northeast Louisiana Master Gardeners 5th Annual Gardening Seminar Time: 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. “Today’s Gardening Trends” will feature 3 nationally known authors and speakers, Tony Tradewell, Dr. Allen Owings and Norman Winter. Reserve your seat today! Pre-registers are preferred but walk-ins are welcome. Venue: West Monroe Convention Center Admission Cost: $20 Phone: 318-680-9252 Web: www.westmonroe.com/departments/convention-center Krewe of Janus Grand Ball Time: 6:30 p.m. Save the date because the Krewe of Janus is having their Mardi Gras Grand Ball. Live music and a cash bar will kick this Mardi Gras season oﬀ with a bang. Bring your friends for all of the fun! Venue: West Monroe Convention Center

Admission Cost: $100 per ticket, $180 per couple Phone: 318-396-5000 Web: kreweofjanusonline.com January 19 Free Curator's Tour Time: 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Learn about our exhibitions during any of our Curator Led Tours. No need to RSVP. Come after work or before dinner. The Tours will be led by Masur Museum Curator of Collections and Exhibitions, Benjamin M. Hickey. Our current exhibitions include Well Worn Truths, a thematic exhibition dealing with depictions of the human body in contemporary art, and Recent Acquisitions and Favorites: Selections From the Permanent Collection. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org January 22-23 and 29-30 The Flop A spiritual successor to Neil Simon’s hit Oscar and Felix, this laugh out loud hit follows the four poker playing friends Roy, Vinnie, Speed and Murray as they deal with life away from the more famous duo. Written by Matt Wilkins, this show explores all the highs and lows of having crazy friends and even crazier experiences with those friends. From card games, to pranks, to strange folks from a strange land, this comedy will have you ready to go straight home and call up some buddies for a night out. Venue: Strauss Theatre Center Admission Cost: Tickets $45/person includes complimentary wine and beer Phone: 318-323-6681 www.strausstheatrecenter.com January 22 Project 41's 3rd Annual White as Snow Gala Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

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. Mackenzie Townsend and Lindsey Nadler will be speaking, along with special guests. 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 January 28-February 6 Robert Charles Brown Cutting Horse Show Time: 2:00 p.m. Come watch and enjoy as riders try to maneuver their horse to separate one calf from the herd at the Robert Charles Brown Cutting Horse Show. Venue: Ike Hamilton Expo Center Arena Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-325-9160 Web: theike.com January 28 Aaron Carter at Live Oaks Aaron Carter will be performing at Live Oaks Bar and Ballroom on Thursday, January 28th. Venue: Live Oaks Bar and Ballroom Phone: 318-548-4562 Web: facebook.com/liveoaksbarandballroom January 29-31 28th Annual KNOE Boat and Outdoor Show Time: Friday: 12:00-7:00 p.m.; Saturday: 10:00-7:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:005:00 p.m. Boats, RVs & Campers, ATV's, Guns and ammo, knives, camping gear, outdoor supplies, fishing equipment, demonstrations, food and much more at the Boat and Outdoor, Gun & Knife Show! Venue: Monroe Civic Center Admission Cost: Adults: $6; Children under 12: Free; Service Men or Women in uniform: Free Phone: 318-329-2225 Web: www.ci.monroe.la.us/monroecivic-center.php

Annual Krewe of Paws Pet Parade 2016 Time: 1:30 p.m. See a twist on the traditional Mardi Gras festivities with pets of all sorts in costumes and ﬂoats, and of course plenty of beads! Venue: Antique Alley Admission Cost: $20 per registrant and $5 additional per pet. Free to watch parade. Web: www.pawsnela.org Children’s Mardi Gras Parade Time: Registration-9:30 a.m.; Parade-10:30 a.m. It's that time of year! Laissez les bon temps roulez! The Children's Mardi Gras Parade will be held Saturday, January 30th at Pecanland Mall Center Court. Registration begins at 9:30 am and the parade will start at 10:30 am. Children up to age 10 are invited to walk, roll or ride with the Krewe of Janus. Trophies will be awarded in 3 divisions. Individuals ages 0-4, Individuals ages 410 and Group. A grand prize trophy will be awarded for the best entry. For more info call 732-7229. We hope to see all of you there! This is a FREE event! Venue: Pecanland Mall Admission Cost: Free Phone: (318) 322-4635 Web: www.pecanlandmall.com Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade Time: 6:00 p.m. It's that time of year when king cakes are enjoyed, beads are thrown and the music is loud, it's Mardi Gras 2015! Join the Krewe of Janus in the parade. Families will marvel at the spectacular ﬂoats and colorful creations! Venue: Monroe-West Monroe Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-323-0230 Thank you to our calendar sponsor:

January 30 PAWS of NE Louisiana presents: 10th WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2016

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