BayouLife Magazine January 26

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28 18 / TOP BEAUTY PRODUCTS ‘26

JANUARY 2026

BayouLife Magazine’s Top 5 beauty picks, from a broad-spectrum sunscreen to a retinol lotion formulated by a local dermatologist, are essentials for healthy, glowing skin.

28 / CHAI IT! YOU’LL LIKE IT A LATTE! Nothing takes away the winter doldrums like a warm chai latte.

36 / SO FRESH. SO CLEAN

Try this holistic, homemade clean air spray and all-purpose cleaner. No harsh chemicals and the naturally antibacterial properties of these solutions make them a “go to” refresher/cleaner you can feel good about.

40 / BAYOU EATS | VIET HOUSE

Rooted in heritage and community, Kate Nguyen is brewing authentic Vietnamese culture into North Louisiana’s coffee scene, one phindripped cup at a time.

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56 / HOMEMADE LIP BALM

Winter can take its toll on your lips. Add soothing moisture to alleviate cracking for soft, supple lips with a customizable lip balm you can make in 30 minutes or less.

116 / BAYOU ICON | JEFF THOMAS

Because of his dedication to serving others and living for Christ, Jeff Thomas is our January 2026 BayouIcon.

129 / FASHION

winter, pull out the looks in classic A P R I L 2 0 1 8This winter whites. From velvet dresses to

58 / COZY COMFORT IN A BOWL

When winter winds have you chilled, nothing beats an easy and hearty soup for supper.

cozy sweaters, these chic pieces are available at local retailers.

64 / BAYOU ARTIST

A new year invites more than personal resolutions – it calls for mindful choices that benefit the world around us.

Patricia Tait Jones reflects on her journey to claiming her identity as an artist, shaped by mentorship, persistence, and a deep belief in the power of community to sustain both creative practice and the places we call home.

81 / TOP DOCS

These local medical professionals have been voted the top in their fields by their peers for Top Docs 2026.

132 / LOW IMPACT LIVING

137 / THE BEST IN SKINCARE

In this article, trusted local experts, from medical spas to dermatology and plastic surgery practices, cut through the noise to share science-backed advice.

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s we turn the page to a brand new year, it is hard to believe how quickly time moves. January always feels like an invitation, a chance to pause, reflect, and intentionally step forward. In this Health and Beauty issue of BayouLife Magazine, we lean into that sense of renewal, focusing on wellness in all its forms, including physical health, mindful living, community connection, and the beauty found in purposeful choices. Like many of you, the start of a new year inspires me to reexamine daily habits and priorities. This year, I am especially mindful of being more eco-conscious and making healthy eating a priority for my entire family. Wellness, I have learned, is not only about what we eat or how often we exercise. It is also about how we spend our time. Slowing down to enjoy intentional moments such as reading a good book, working a puzzle, or gathering around the mahjong table creates space for rest, connection, and joy. Those small, thoughtful choices often make the biggest difference. January also marks our 8th annual Top Doctors issue, a feature we are incredibly proud to present. This list is peer voted and highlights many of the outstanding physicians serving Northeast Louisiana. While it is by no means all inclusive, and we never recommend changing medical providers based solely on this list, it reflects the respect and admiration medical professionals have for one another. We are truly fortunate to live in a region with such a deep pool of talented, compassionate healthcare providers, and we are grateful for the work they do every day to keep our community healthy and thriving. Food and culture take center stage in this month’s BayouEats column, where we spotlight The Viet House. Owner Kate Nguyen’s pride in her Vietnamese heritage is evident in every detail of Viet House Coffee and Tea. That heritage is not only a source of inspiration but the very foundation of her business, creating a welcoming space where culture, flavor,

BayouLife

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1201 Royal Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 Phone 318.855.3185

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM PUBLISHER & OWNER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com community come together. Our January Bayou Icon is someone who embodies wellness through service and purpose. Jeff Thomas, affectionately known as the Faster Pastor, has turned his love of running into a platform for faith, generosity, and advocacy. Since running his first marathon in 2022, Jeff has completed nine marathons, including three World Major Marathons, all while raising funds and awareness for causes close to his heart, especially St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. A full time pastor at Start Baptist Church for the past 14 years, Jeff runs with purpose to give God glory and with passion, honoring children and families served by St. Jude. His journey, perseverance, and servant heart make him a true inspiration and a fitting BayouIcon for January 2026. We also feature Bayou Artist Patricia Tait Jones, whose artistic journey began later in life and continues to flourish through community and collaboration. Inspired by her daughter and encouraged by fellow creatives, Jones approaches art not as competition, but as a shared landscape of growth, connection, and possibility. This issue is filled with thoughtful articles, expert insights, and practical tips on health, beauty, and wellness. We hope it inspires you to begin the year with intention, gratitude, and hope. Thank you for welcoming BayouLife Magazine into your home. We hope you enjoy this January issue.

Cassie

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COPY EDITOR Cindy Foust GENERAL MANAGER Toni Navarro toni@bayoulifemag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Nathan Coker nathan@bayoulifemag.com Bailey Lodrige bailey@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES Lindsay Adams lindsay@bayoulifemag.com Breanne Pittman breanne@bayoulifemag.com ART DIRECTOR Maré Brennan LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Kelly Moore Clark CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Beatrice A. Tatem, Ph.D. Arie Shaw, MD Paul Lipe Kenny Covington Jerod Smith Cindy Gist Foust Starla Gatson Nathan Morris, MD Meredith McKinnie Rev. Roy Bryan Moore Georgiann Potts April C. Doughty Joyce Sims Delia Simpson Vanelis Rivera Camryn Thompson Kerry Heafner Maré Brennan Erin Sharplin Love CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Kelly Moore Clark Steven Palowsky ON THE COVER Our January 2026 BayouIcon, Jeff Thomas photography by Kelly Moore Clark BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Postal subscriptions ($30) can be ordered online at www.bayoulifemag.com. BayouLife Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts, or other materials. Opinion columns do not represent the views of the publisher. Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited.

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A Sincere Thank You Beef & Barrel Welcomes The New Year With Gratitude

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ANUARY INVITES REFLECTION, RENEWAL, AND ABOVE all, gratitude. As we step into a new year, we want to begin by sincerely thanking you, our customers. Every visit, every conversation, and every bottle you choose helps shape who we are and what we bring into the store. We are grateful to start another year alongside such an engaged and thoughtful community, and we thank you for trusting us to be part of your celebrations, quiet evenings, and new beginnings. We begin the year with a fresh look and familiar excellence from First West Bourbons. The First West lineup—Small Batch, Toasted Oak, and Extra Aged—features newly introduced bottles inspired by early Kentucky whiskey history. The broad-shouldered silhouette, heavier glass, and understated labels reference frontier-era bottles while maintaining a clean, modern presence on the shelf. Warm tones, subtle textures, and restrained typography reinforce a sense of heritage without feeling dated. It’s a design that reflects confidence, craftsmanship, and tradition. Inside the bottle, the bourbon delivers on that promise. First West Small Batch is balanced and approachable, offering notes of caramel, orchard fruit, and gentle oak that make it equally enjoyable neat, on ice, or in classic cocktails. Toasted Oak builds additional depth with richer wood influence, baking spice, and a rounder mouthfeel for those who enjoy a more expressive pour. Extra Aged brings extended maturation to the forefront, layering darker fruit, seasoned oak, and a long, satisfying finish meant for slow sipping. Together, the First West collection pairs historically inspired presentation with modern blending precision, making these bourbons as appealing to drink as they are to display. January is also synonymous with intention, and for many, that means participating in Dry January or choosing more mindful drinking options. Undone offers an impressive range of zero-proof wines and spirits that focus on flavor, structure, and ritual rather than restriction. Their Rosé and White wines are crafted to be refreshing, food-friendly, and balanced, emphasizing natural acidity and clean fruit instead of sweetness. The Rosé is lively and crisp with subtle red-berry notes, while the White highlights citrus, orchard fruit, and gentle floral character, making both ideal for aperitifs, lighter meals, or easy weekday sipping. Undone’s non-alcoholic spirits round out the experience for those who still enjoy mixing and serving cocktails. Not Gin highlights classic botanical character with juniper, citrus peel, and herbal depth, working seamlessly in tonic serves or gin-style cocktails. Not Rum brings warmth and complexity through vanilla, spice, and subtle oak-inspired notes, making it a natural fit for Old Fashioned-style builds and alcohol-free classics. For 10 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

something bolder, Not Mezcal delivers smoky, earthy character inspired by agave spirits, adding depth and intrigue to margarita-style drinks or creative zero-proof cocktails. Together, Undone’s wines and spirits make Dry January feel expansive, inclusive, and genuinely enjoyable. For those continuing to enjoy wine, Ridge Vineyards combines historic legacy with terroir-driven excellence. Founded in 1962, Ridge has long been recognized for pioneering California Zinfandel and crafting wines that highlight the unique character of each vineyard site. The winery’s commitment to quality, balance, and minimal intervention has made it a model for generations of winemakers. Recent recognition in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 has reaffirmed Ridge’s enduring influence and the consistency of its approach. Three Valleys remains an approachable yet expressive Zinfandelbased blend, delivering vibrant fruit, subtle spice, and versatility at the table. Lytton Springs has earned top honors for its depth, concentration, and old-vine character, showcasing layers of blackberry, pepper, and savory notes supported by firm but polished tannins. Geyserville, another Ridge classic, brings elegance and balance together, weaving bright fruit, earth, and structure into a wine that continues to age gracefully while remaining rewarding now. January is also a time when craftsmanship and intention take center stage, and the products we highlight this month reflect that focus. The bourbons, wines, and zero‑proof offerings on our shelves are chosen not just for their labels or accolades, but for how they perform in real moments—poured at the end of a long day, shared over dinner, or enjoyed slowly on a quiet evening. First West’s carefully blended bourbons reward attention with layers that unfold sip by sip, while Ridge’s wines continue to prove that balance and restraint can be just as compelling as power. For those exploring lower‑ or no‑alcohol options, Undone’s wines and spirits bring that same sense of purpose to the glass. Their Rosé and White wines offer refreshment without compromise, while Not Gin, Not Rum, and Not Mezcal provide the structure needed to build satisfying cocktails that still feel celebratory. Together, these selections reflect our belief that January drinking—whatever form it takes—should still be rooted in quality, enjoyment, and choice. As we close, we return once more to our sincere thanks. Thank you for being our customers, our neighbors, and our inspiration as we move through January and into the months to come. And as always, thank you for letting us be your spirits guides here at Beef & Barrel.

Winnsboro Medical Spa Ask Dr. Kelly: The Most Common Questions Patients Ask

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R. KELLY LODGEN IS A BOARD-CERTIFIED FAMILY medicine physician providing care at Winnsboro Medical Clinic and the co-owner and Medical Director of Winnsboro Medical Spa. In addition to her medical practice, she is an aesthetic injector and aesthetic laser provider. Dr. Kelly regularly pursues advanced training in aesthetic medicine and is committed to education, safety, and individualized patient care. In her work at the spa, Dr. Kelly often finds that patients arrive with similar questions, concerns, and misconceptions about aesthetic and medical treatments. She wanted to answer some of them here These are some of the questions I hear almost every week in my office. There is rarely a one-size-fits-all answer, which is why education, honesty, and partnership matter so much in aesthetic and medical care. I wanted to answer a few of these here, and for anyone who wants a deeper explanation, I have recorded longer video answers that you can access by scanning the QR codes on the right. Is using weight loss shots a cheat? No. Weight loss medications are simply one tool in a much larger provider tool belt. Other tools I use regularly include nutrition guidance, resistance training recommendations, and targeted vitamin supplementation. Each plays an important role in supporting long-term health and sustainable results. I often explain it this way: you can build a house with only a hammer and nails, but the best homes are built using tape measures, levels, and power tools as well. Weight loss medications help regulate hunger signals and insulin resistance so that lifestyle changes actually work. When used appropriately and under medical supervision, they are not shortcuts. They are support. In my practice, the focus is never just the medication. It is education, monitoring, and helping patients feel supported throughout their journey. Am I too young for Botox or other wrinkle relaxers? That depends. Most people begin to benefit from neurotoxins like Botox or Dysport in their early 30s, when lines start to form with facial movement. However, I have treated patients in their 20s who have very strong facial muscles that create deep expression lines early on. With younger patients, my focus is often on prejuvenation. This means prioritizing skin health and prevention with treatments like NanoLaserPeels, Moxi, Glo2Facials, and chemical peels. These treatments improve texture, tone, and collagen before deeper lines ever settle in. After all, it is much easier to prevent a problem than to fix one, although I am very comfortable doing both.

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Am I too old for Botox or injectables? Before answering that, it helps to talk about what truly makes us look older. Wrinkles are only one part of the picture. Poor skin texture, brown spots, red spots, and dull, lifeless skin often age us just as much, if not more. Remember the idea of tools. Neurotoxins are another tool, but they are not the only one we have. As skin matures, treatment plans often shift toward improving overall skin quality through lasers, resurfacing treatments, and skin-tightening technologies. In some cases, neurotoxins are still helpful. In others, they are not the best choice. My role is to guide patients honestly toward what will look most natural and balanced for them. Do I have to do injectables to see improvement? Absolutely not. Injectables are optional, not mandatory. Many patients prefer non-injectable approaches, and we offer a wide range of laser and energy-based treatments that improve tone, texture, firmness, and clarity without needles. Some people come in knowing exactly what they want. Others come in knowing what they do not want. Both are perfectly reasonable starting points. A good treatment plan respects comfort levels just as much as cosmetic goals. Am I going to look overdone? This is one of the most common concerns I hear, and it is an important one. In my office, treatment is always a partnership. You are holding the mirror. We start conservatively, re-assess together, and move forward thoughtfully. I am not here to sell a look or a product. I am here to help patients feel confident and like themselves, just refreshed. Subtlety, balance, and trust guide every decision. About Winnsboro Medical Spa Winnsboro Medical Spa is a physician-led practice focused on safety, education, and individualized care. The team regularly invests in advanced training and technology to ensure patients receive thoughtful, evidence-based treatment planning. For those interested in learning more, Dr. Kelly has recorded in-depth video answers to these questions. Scan the QR codes on the right to watch and receive a Bayou Life reader thank-you when booking or shopping.

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New Year, New Mindset Looking to the New Year with Hope BY BEATRICE A. TATEM, PH.D., LPC-S, NCC, ACS

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F YOU ARE READING THIS ARTICLE THE GOOD NEWS IS that you have survived the various nuances good and bad of the old year and you have lived to see another year come in. Another year to have the audacity to deliver on the dreams you set in 2025, and the dreams you will develop this year. It seems at the end of each year and the start of the New Year there is a lot of reflection on how the past year has unfolded with an emphasis on getting things done and starting anew. In fact, we may find ourselves surveying our gains and losses, reviewing personal goals set and met, assessing accomplishments achieved, exploring challenges encountered, examining relationships we developed, evaluating opportunities that were realized and those that we missed. There are times when facing the new year, we think about memorable moments of the past in great anticipation of what will be. The start of a new year tends to be met by many with great emotion shaped by the events of the previous year. Many subscribe to “New Year, New You,” and I admit I have and in fact authored an article several years ago titled, “New Year, New You.” My clients have prompted me to think beyond this commonly used saying and as a result I have altered my perspective. “New Year” signifies a fresh start, often meaning to inspire and energize change. It can serve as a positive reframe if things do not go as we expected or hoped, it suggests we can try again in the new year as a new you. New in this case is defined as “not existing before; recently made, invented or created.” If we were to start the year completely unaffected by our past, who would we be as individuals, as friends, family members, colleagues, as members of society? Instead of “New Year, New You,” and encouraging one to start the year as a completely new person, I suggest “New Year, New Mentality.” Having a new mentality at the start of the year suggests a fresh outlook, hope, personal growth, and proactive change. It suggests shifting from a “fixed mindset” to an “open mindset.” An open mindset is defined as an optimistic, forward-looking attitude that focuses on the good in situations, expects positive outcomes, and approaches challenges constructively, without ignoring reality or negative emotions. I have chosen to use the phrase “New Year, New Mentality” to encourage resilience, our finding solutions, while trusting in our ability to confront issues of adversity. “New Year, New Mentality” is used in this vein as a psychological reset promoting our learning from past mistakes and failures and moving forward with intentional action. It is now 2026, the start of the new year. Everyone’s journey through 2025 has been different and how we get to where we want to be in 2026 will be different. For many the journey towards 2026 has been met with 14 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

uncertainty, for others it was the most significant year of their lives. Although the holidays are a time of joy and gratitude, we often fill the last days of the year looking for ways to make the upcoming year even better. When reflecting over 2025 many will agree there were positive experiences as well as aspects of life needing to be changed. Societal occurrences, not to mention personal dynamics have shaped each of our lives. The world is new with a different political landscape; a reshaped economy and mental health needs are at an all-time high. In 2026, we must be open to adjusting to a new set of realities that on some days may be easier to ignore or deny. In 2026 we must seek inspiration, experience change, and acknowledge the chance to improve current situations. I encourage all including myself to work towards being healthier, stronger, practicing self-examination and reevaluation of our attitude, disposition, and outlook on life. We need to embrace our inner strength and bring it into the new year, after all it is often during the tough times that we recognize and then expand our strength, fortitude, and courage. Over the past year many have experienced the fear that comes with uncertainty, self-doubt, food insecurity, job loss, increase in the cost of living, experiences with injustice, lost loved ones, heartbreak and health problems during insurance cuts. Whether we have experienced these challenges directly or vicariously through the suffering of others we can all look at the past and be saddened by what was and no longer exists. Soak in the power of reflection and the richness of transformation then shift your mindset from worried, frustrated, stuck, and unsure to powerful, confident, and ready to move forward. Avoid waiting for a special time for a new beginning? Everyday can be January 1st, and yes, change can come in the morning of every day. Look back at the events that led you to this point…look back while moving forward. Be mindful, some things need to stay in the past. When revisiting 2025 consciously choose what aspects of the past you want to hold on to and what you want to let go while aligning your thoughts with your actions and your vision. Each day is a celebration of life, find your place in it. Be rooted in confidence, putting more of your spirit into your life while walking with your head up looking forward. Take time to smile when you encounter others after all smiles are contagious and can help to shift a mindset. Appreciate the “new” and recognize the “happy” in the year to come. May the coming year be full of goodness anchored in the hope of a brighter future.

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H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

What you need: 2 jars for bath salts 2 1/2 cups epsom salt (extra fine) 3 TBSP pink sea salt medium 3 TBSP pink sea salt coarse 1/4 tsp lavender essential oil 1/2 TBSP dried lavender flowers Directions: In a large mixing bowl, add together the epsom salt and pink sea salts (both sizes). Next, add in the lavender essential oil and use your hands to thoroughly mix in. Add the dried lavender flowers and mix thoroughly. Transfer the salt to your jars or containers. Store bath salts in a cool, dry place. Add a large handful under the hot water when you run your bath. Relax!

*We found the Murano glass container with pink shrimp-handled lid at Material Things and the white and gold dot tiny bowl and gold spoon at The Muffin Tin and Trenton House.

Perfectly Pink Bath Salts

Nothing feels more luxurious than a quiet soak in warm water softened with bath salts and scented with all natural essential oils. This version can easily be customized.

Styled by MARÉ BRENNAN Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

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Top Beauty Products 2026

H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

BayouLife Magazine’s Top 5 beauty picks, from a broadspectrum sunscreen to a retinol lotion formulated by a local dermatologist, are essentials for healthy, glowing skin. These standout products deserve a spot in your new year, new skincare routine for 2026.

MICKEL PLASTIC SURGERY ZO® Skin Health Intense Eye Créme Targeted retinol eye crème to reduce visible wrinkles and fine lines while improving overall complexion and skin texture. Optical diffusers reduce look of dark circles and puffiness.

HOPKINS DERMATOLOGY Rx: Restore Redefining retinol body lotion helps to visibly lift and tighten the skin. A blend of powerful antioxidants including Green Tea Polyphenols, Resveratrol and Caffeine help to smooth the appearance of cellulite, fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid and ceramides moisturize and plump skin. HOPKINS DERMATOLOGY Rx: Alphabet Serum A powerhouse antioxidant that boosts levels of Vitamin C in the skin while shutting down free radical pathways through a patented, rapid-release delivery system.

WINNSBORO MEDICAL SPA sunbetter TONE SMART SPF 68 Sunscreen Compact Experience superior sun protection in a tone-adjusting, luxuriously smooth compact, offering a touch of seamlessly blendable color. Broad spectrum sunscreen doubles as a makeup primer and can be layered for extra coverage.

THE MEDICAL SPA BY ST. FRANCIS ZO® Skin Health Wrinkle + Texture Repair This high-potency retinol solution features a microemulsion delivery system for enhanced absorption. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a smoother and more even-toned complexion. This solution also helps improve skin texture and minimize the appearance of enlarged pores, leaving your skin looking refreshed and revitalized.

Styled by MARÉ BRENNAN Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

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Material Things Where Craftsmanship Meets Creativity

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OW. HERE WE ARE, GOING INTO A NEW YEAR together again…I know that I, along with all of you, have had a lot going on this past year, on a personal level and a professional level. I’m not one to reveal so much about my personal life but, it has been a year…to say the least. But, like I continue to say, all we can do is forge on. And, forge on we will. I feel a little like Alice in Wonderland at times with the friends, customers and people that have surrounded me every day this past year. Lewis Carroll uses the rabbit hole as a metaphor for the object of a child’s curiosity and I can tell you I have seen a lot of children’s curiosity this year. The friends, customers and people that I refer to are also teachers just like the Cheshire Cat that represents wisdom and guidance…teachers in all aspects, literally or figuratively. And, the Mad Hatter that represents the absurdity of life, a rebellion against rigid logic, and the “madness” of Victorian society. Obviously, I’m not promoting “madness” but, I am promoting the idea of giving ourselves the “free pass” to enjoy ourselves and our lives. I am completely astounded every day at the influx of young people (children’s curiosity) that are taking stitching to heart aka Grandma hobbies. And, by doing this…they are lengthening their attention span, feeling connected, turning passive leisure into active leisure and so so much more. It gives my heart absolute joy seeing this younger generation reclaiming happiness and learning to do what generations before them have done. Another thing that has been hitting home with me is the idea of the “analog bag.” And, what better way is there to fill it than with a deck of playing cards, needlepoint stitching, and a mini Mahjong set for on the go. This is the year of hands-on living! There is something that has been rolling around in my mind for several months now…a metaphor, so to speak for what is happening in our culture right now…young and old alike, and that is: TEATeach, Educate, Advance. What do we think of when we think of tea? We sometimes think of it as a formal high tea, or a popular way to celebrate a special occasion, or just getting together with a couple of friends in the afternoon. I think it’s a coming together to exchange ideas, learn something we did not know, calming our minds, and all the while surrounding ourselves with friends and loved ones. All of that being said, I really want to focus on these aspects in the coming year. We have already been working on this “idea or 20 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

mantra” in 2025 with our Wednesday free sew days, our Thursday sit and stitch days and even Mahjong lessons in the evenings. But, I definitely want to expand this thought process in 2026. Let’s talk a little bit about what will be happening at Material Things and in The Haberdashery this year. Starting in January, we will be hosting a lovely lady from Shreveport that will be teaching us how to “finish” a round needlepoint ornament. In February, the delightful Mariana Barran Goodall of Hibiscus Linens will be joining us to teach a little hand embroidery and introduce us to all of the beauty that is in her world. We are also starting our 2026 BOM (block of the month) on the first Saturday in February. This year the pattern is Tuesday Afternoon by Emma Di Stefano of Treehouse Textiles. This will be every first Saturday until October. We will be continuing our normal Wednesday and Thursday free sit, stitch and sew days, as well. On these days, there is no need to tell us that you are coming… you just show up with whatever you want to sew on on Wednesdays and whatever needlepoint you want to stitch on on Thursdays. Just a few months ago, I was introduced to the lovely Amy Taylor and her world of Mahjong. She has been teaching this ancient game to me along with many other ladies in our community here at Material Things and it has been wonderful. Starting in January, she will be giving more lessons and every Friday from 12-3 are open play days inside Material Things. You can reserve your spot for either of these by signing up on @monroemahjong318 on Instagram. I have many more things planned for this year, so sign up for our monthly emailed calendar on my website www.materialthingsshop.com so you will be in the know and won’t miss out on something fabulous! So, join me along with my cast of Cheshire Cats this year and be like the Mad Hatter and partake in a few TEA parties…I promise you will not regret it.

XOXO - Joyce

Dr. Gary Stanley

Alumni Spotlight ULM Alum: Dr. Gary Stanley

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AISED BY EDUCATORS IN LAKE PROVIDENCE, Louisiana, Dr. Gary Stanley understood the value of an education from the beginning. Alongside identical twin brother Jerry Stanley, Gary worked diligently in school. After graduating from Briarfield Academy, Gary and Jerry declared premedicine at ULM (then NLU), lived in an off-campus apartment, and took many of the same classes. ULM was (and still is) known for its undergraduate healthcare studies, and the Stanleys took advantage of the local option. Gary formed good relationships with his peers, as the campus was swarming with students and activities. Gary played intramural sports like basketball, flag football, and softball; as a senior, Gary played with the championship volleyball team. Though he did not join a fraternity, instead choosing to stay focused on his studies, Gary did indulge the “bustling beehive of activity” on campus. With an enrollment of well over 10,000 students, Gary never felt shortchanged on the college experience. Gary’s time at ULM served as the bridge that transitioned him to adult responsibility. In the pre-internet, pre-cell phone era, students had to learn to do things for themselves. They knocked on doors and met with professors personally. Gary found the ULM faculty welcoming and willing to talk in and beyond the classroom. Dr. William W. Norris, Jr., taught histology and embryology, and Gary formed a lasting relationship with the professor that he describes as a “gentle soul.” Though not outspoken, Dr. Norris made an impression regardless while serving as Gary and Jerry’s pre-med advisor. He helped prepare Gary for medical school and Jerry for pharmacy school. At the grassroots level, Dr. Norris taught them how to study efficiently, to get into the textbooks and go deeper to prepare themselves for challenges that awaited in their respective fields. After Gary applied to LSU Health Science Center in Shreveport and only made the alternate list, he enrolled in graduate school at ULM to stay intellectually active for the next year’s application cycle. Gary stated, “The faculty realized my goals and indulged me. They were there to help us.” The LSU Dean of Admissions asked Gary on his second attempt, “What plans do you have if you don’t get in?” Gary insisted the admissions committee would see him next year. His persistence paid off, and Gary was admitted to med school.

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Assuming he would become a family physician and return to practice in Lake Providence, Gary committed all of his time to the grueling schedule required of medical students. Gary describes the experience as “unlike anything I’d ever experienced before. The volume of work and material was overwhelming.” Surprisingly, Gary fell in love with pediatrics and has practiced in Monroe for 30 years. For the most part, the kids are healthy, and he gets to graduate them to their adult doctors. He likes the unpredictable nature of working with children. In one room he might have a kid with a fever, while in the next room one has put a bead up his nose. In pediatrics, tragedies are uncommon, and Gary enjoys cutting up with the children. He can be silly, thus lowering the intimidation factor. He calls the parents his “teachers,” and appreciates the “lightbulb moments” of raising children. Dr. Stanley’s professional path was made possible by the devotion and sacrifice of his wife Jamie. With the demanding nature of Gary’s medical school and residency, Jamie was, at times, effectively a single spouse and single mom, raising their daughter Jordan and son Aaron. Gary insists, “She is a rock, the love of my life. I would not be where I am without her.” Jamie is also a ULM alumna, graduating in Early Childhood Education. Jordan graduated from LATech in psychology, and Aaron graduated in Kinesiology from ULM in 2024 and is currently in the ULM Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. As a lifetime resident of northeast Louisiana, Dr. Stanley stays involved with ULM as a member of the Alumni Association. His family attends sporting events and stays involved in campus activities. He welcomes students to job shadow at Pediatric Associates and encourages their choice to attend ULM. He shares, “ULM took me places I never imagined.” Sharing the impact of his local education to the next generation is a privilege and a responsibility. Dr. Stanley and his family are a testament to the legacy of ULM, impacting generations throughout our community.

Thriving in Transition

Practical Ways to Support Your Body Through Perimenopause This Year BY ARIE SHAW, MD, OCHSNER LSU HEALTH – MONROE MEDICAL CENTER

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ANUARY IS TRADITIONALLY A TIME OF RENEWAL WHEN the calendar resets. We are suddenly surrounded by messages about fresh starts, ambitious resolutions and transforming our lives. For many women navigating the transition into menopause (known as perimenopause), this pressure to “optimize” everything can feel less like motivation and more like an impossible standard. While the rest of the world is focused on the new year, you might just be trying to figure out why you feel different. Your sleep might be fragmented with your mood unpredictable and your internal thermostat seemingly broken. Even the most disciplined among us can feel thrown off course when faced with the hormonal fluctuations that define this stage of life. It can feel daunting to honor your health goals when your body seems to be changing the rules without warning. Managing perimenopause doesn’t mean waging war against your physiology or adhering to restrictive, unsustainable resolutions. With realistic expectations, simple strategies and some patience, you can navigate these changes and maintain your vitality. Start the new year feeling empowered rather than exhausted. Fueling The Shift As estrogen levels fluctuate, metabolism often slows. Insulin sensitivity can also change. This means the diet that worked for you in your 30s might not yield the same results in your 40s or 50s. However, this isn’t a call for crash dieting. It is an invitation to be more intentional with your ingredients. Small nutritional adjustments can significantly impact your energy levels and symptom management. • Prioritize protein at every meal. Muscle mass naturally decreases with age, which slows metabolism. Incorporating Greek yogurt, lean meats, eggs or plant-based proteins helps preserve muscle and keeps you satisfied longer. • Focus on calcium and vitamin D. As estrogen drops, bone-density protection decreases. Ensure that you are getting adequate calcium through dairy or fortified alternatives and leafy greens to protect your long-term skeletal health. • Limit processed sugars and simple carbohydrates. They can trigger blood sugar spikes that mimic or exacerbate hot flashes. Swapping a morning pastry for oatmeal with nuts or berries adds fiber and sustained energy without the crash. • Hydrate effectively. Dehydration can intensify hot flashes and brain 24 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

fog. Aim to drink water throughout the day. Perhaps, swap that second or third cup of coffee for herbal tea or lemon water. Reclaiming Your Rest Sleep disturbances are often the most disruptive symptom of perimenopause. While you cannot always control your hormones, you can control your environment. Approach your sleep hygiene intentionally. • Cool down the bedroom. Keep your sleeping environment cooler than the rest of the house. Layering bedding allows you to adjust quickly if you overheat. Moisture-wicking pajamas can prevent a night sweat from fully waking you. • Establish a wind-down routine. It takes time for the brain to switch from “do” mode to “rest” mode. Limiting screen time an hour before bed and engaging in calming activities (like reading or stretching) can signal to your body that it is time to sleep. • Watch the evening wine. While alcohol might help you fall asleep, it often disrupts the quality of deep sleep. It can also trigger night sweats. Alternating evening drinks with water or skipping alcohol during the week can improve your rest quality significantly. Moving With Purpose For many women, the exercise routines that used to work now feel draining or ineffective. Joint pain or fatigue can make high-intensity workouts feel impossible. Movement remains one of the best tools for managing mood and weight during this transition. The goal in the new year should be consistency over intensity. If high-impact cardio feels like too much, pivot to strength training or yoga. Building muscle is crucial for revving up a slowing metabolism. Activities like yoga can lower cortisol levels and reduce stress. Give Yourself Grace Despite your best efforts, you will have days where the symptoms win. You may feel irritable for no reason, wake up soaking wet or crave comfort foods. A single bad day or a sleepless night does not mean you are failing at aging. It means you are human. Perimenopause can be a time of profound positive change, offering a chance to refocus on yourself after years of caring for others. Use these tips as your guide, not restrictive rules. Embrace this new chapter with curiosity and kindness toward yourself. Dr. Arie Shaw practices obstetrics and gynecology at Ochsner LSU Health - Monroe Medical Center. Call 318-330-7300 or visit ochsnerlsuhs.org/doctors/ arie-shaw-m-d to make an appointment.

Ending 2025 With A Bang LDCC’s Big Wins For Community, Career And Classroom ARTICLE BY CAMRYN THOMPSON

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S 2025 DRAWS TO A CLOSE, LOUISIANA DELTA Community College (LDCC) is closing the year not just with accomplishments — but with transformational milestones that signal a bold leap into the future. Across Northeast Louisiana, educators, students, community leaders, and industry partners are celebrating three major achievements that showcase LDCC’s commitment to education, workforce development, and community vitality. From strategic investments in infrastructure to statewide recognition in teacher preparation and industry-ready technical training, these wins embody the college’s mission: inspiring minds, transforming lives, and building futures. One of the year’s most exciting moments came in early December, when LDCC announced a generous $300,000 donation from the Cox family to support the construction of the brand-new LDCC Bastrop Campus. The gift, made in honor of the family’s late physician parents who dedicated their careers to serving Morehouse Parish, marks a pivotal investment in the region’s educational landscape. Held at the LDCC Simulation Center in Bastrop, the check presentation ceremony drew community leaders, local officials, and college representatives who applauded the Cox family’s vision and generosity. In remarks at the event, family spokesperson Stephen Cox described the contribution as “the perfect opportunity to invest in the community and provide an accessible gateway into the field of medicine right here in Morehouse Parish.” LDCC Chancellor Dr. Justin Hoggard emphasized the long-lasting impact of the donation. Calling it “more than a contribution — it is a catalyst for the future of Northeast Louisiana,” Dr. Hoggard pointed to the Bastrop Campus as a key driver for expanded training opportunities in medicine, technology, and workforce skills that will strengthen regional economic vitality for generations. Just days earlier, LDCC celebrated another major milestone — the official ribbon-cutting of the expanded Diesel-Powered Equipment Technology Shop on its West Monroe Campus. This enhanced facility embodies LDCC’s dedication to workforce excellence and community partnerships. With expanded space for advanced workstations and upgraded electrical training areas, the shop now accommodates more students and fosters hands-on learning in one of the region’s most in-demand fields. Industry leaders such as Kenworth of Louisiana and Louisiana 26 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

CAT were recognized at the event for their pivotal support, highlighting how education and industry collaboration can power real economic opportunities. For students in the diesel program, the enhancements mean greater access to real-world experience and a direct pipeline to high-wage job opportunities upon graduation. Diesel technology is more than engines and equipment — it’s a gateway to careers that keep the wheels of industry turning, from transportation fleets to construction and logistics. According to LDCC leadership, the expanded shop reinforces the college’s unwavering commitment to workforce growth in Northeast Louisiana. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry partnerships, LDCC is helping to build a skilled talent pool that meets local employer needs while elevating economic prospects for students and families alike. In November, the college earned a prestigious statewide distinction that underscores its academic impact: LDCC was named Louisiana’s number-one college for growing the next generation of teachers. According to statewide data from the Louisiana Board of Regents, LDCC accounted for 38.5% of all Associate of Science in Teaching (AST) graduates in Louisiana — more than any other community college in the state. Through strong advising, flexible pathways, and a deep commitment to community-based learning, LDCC’s Teacher Pathways programs are redefining how educators are recruited, trained, and retained — especially in rural and underserved communities across the region. A standout feature of this success is the Teacher Apprenticeship Program (TAP), which boasts high retention rates and full job placement, offering aspiring teachers the support they need to succeed while building real classroom experience. School leaders across multiple parishes have praised LDCC’s role in strengthening local education systems, noting that graduates trained through these programs are returning to serve the very communities that nurtured them — a powerful testament to the college’s impact on the Northeast Region’s educational ecosystem. From workforce facilities and community infrastructure to statewide educational leadership, the college is broadening access, building capacity, and strengthening the region’s future for one student at a time. As 2025 ends with these remarkable wins, LDCC is poised for even greater momentum in 2026 — building on the foundation of expanded campuses, enhanced training programs, and a reputation for excellence that resonates throughout Louisiana.

B AYO U D R I N K

Chai It! You’ll Like It A Latte! Styled by MARÉ BRENNAN Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

Nothing takes away the winter doldrums like a warm chai latte. Packed with cozy and aromatic spices like cinnamon, anise, cardamom, ginger, and cloves, this tea has just the right amount of sweet and creamy flavor. For added caffeine, you can add a shot of coffee to create a “Dirty Chai.” WHAT YOU NEED: Chai Concentrate Ingredients: 2 cups of water 2 cinnamon sticks, whole 1 star anise, chopped 8-10 cardamom pods, split 4 cloves, whole 1/2” ginger root, sliced thinly 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped 1/4 tsp black peppercorns In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring to a boil and boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 1 hour. Strain the spices out of the water. Transfer to a jar and refrigerate if not using immediately. WHAT YOU NEED: Chai Latte Ingredients: Chai concentrate from recipe 2-4 black tea bags 1 cup of milk or oat milk 2-3 TBSP honey or sweetener of choice, if desired Transfer the chai concentrate back into a medium saucepan. Bring to a near boil. Get two mugs ready with 1 or 2 black tea bags each, depending on the desired strength. Pour the hot concentrate over the tea bags in each mug, dividing evenly between the two. Let steep for 5-6 minutes. Press excess water out of tea bags before removing. While tea is steeping, combine milk and honey (or other sweetener) and froth using a milk frother. (If you don’t have a milk frother, pour milk into a large jar, shake vigorously, then microwave for 30-45 seconds.) Pour frothed milk evenly between the 2 mugs and serve immediately.

*The elegant Philippe Deshoulieres “Arcades Green” cups and saucers are sourced from The Muffin Tin and Trenton House.

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Sandra Jones

Kiersten Gaudin

Moments That Matter Healthcare in Action

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T FMOL HEALTH | ST. FRANCIS, HEALTHCARE ISN’T just what we do. It’s who we are. Every day, our team members live out a mission rooted in faith, compassion and connection, taking bold, life-changing actions that make a real difference in people’s lives. Sometimes the impact isn’t measured in monitors or tests. It’s measured in courage, in the choice to stay and in the willingness to be present. Quick Thinking Saves a Life Sandra Johnson, a 20-year veteran housekeeper in surgical services at St. Francis Medical Center, was performing her usual rounds when she noticed something alarming: a patient was choking. Without hesitation, she sprang into action, alerting the nursing team immediately. Her calm but urgent voice mobilized the team, and the patient’s life was saved. “Ms. Sandra didn’t need a clinical title to make a clinical difference,” says Nina Johnson, environmental services director. “And the nurses didn’t need a long briefing. They trusted her instincts and presence.” Sandra’s story is a powerful reminder that every team member has the ability to impact patient care. Collaboration isn’t just a principle. It’s action. When people work together, without silos, extraordinary things happen. Presence Over Procedure In the OB-ED, Kiersten Gaudin, RN, showed another side of that same commitment. A young woman, 38 weeks pregnant and alone, arrived anxious and frightened. When an unexpected C-section became necessary, Kiersten stayed by her side. “I’ve got you. I’ll stay with you,” she told the patient, offering comfort and presence when it mattered most. Through surgery, Kiersten held the patient’s hand, comforted her and remained with the newborn, ensuring the first moments of motherhood were preserved. The mother later reflected, “Kiersten was part of an answered prayer. I was blessed to have her as my nurse.” These stories illustrate that healthcare is about more than procedures. It’s presence, advocacy and compassion, the human 30 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

connection that turns routine care into life-changing experiences. Connected Care in Action FMOL Health is a network of hospitals and clinics across Louisiana and Mississippi, united by shared expertise, resources and a mission to deliver the best care possible. Moments like Sandra’s and Kiersten’s show that system in action. Every team member can act confidently, supported by colleagues, protocols and experience that span the region. The network exists not for hierarchy, but to ensure care happens when it matters most, whether it’s a life-saving intervention or simply being present for a patient in need. Healthcare as a Verb At FMOL Health, healthcare is something you do, live and give. It’s courage in urgent moments. It’s patience when someone is afraid. It’s empathy that transforms everyday interactions into extraordinary care. Rooted in faith and the healing mission of Jesus Christ, every team member, from housekeepers to nurses, physicians to technicians, embodies this calling. Every action is guided by enduring values: service with joy, authenticity, connection, inclusivity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Everyday Moments, Lasting Impact For patients and families in Northeast Louisiana, FMOL Health | St. Francis remains the trusted healthcare partner for generations. Yet it’s the small, everyday actions that define the experience: noticing a patient in distress, holding a hand through fear or preserving the first moments of a newborn’s life. Sandra and Kiersten are examples of that mission in action, showing us that sometimes the most profound healing isn’t in the medicine, but in simply being there. These moments don’t just save lives—they build trust, comfort, and community. They show that St. Francis is more than a hospital. It’s a place where every person matters, and every moment of care is valued. This is how we healthcare. Learn more at fmolhealth.org/healthcare.

Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup 2026 Expands with New Categories and Prize Amounts

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HE ENTREPRENEURSHIP PELICAN CUP, LOUISIANA’S premier business plan competition hosted annually at the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM), has announced an expansion for 2026. For the 5th year of the competition, contestants will be split into undergraduate and graduate categories. The overall prize pool will grow from $96,000 to $157,000. The application period for the 2026 competition began on December 1, 2025, with the oral finals and awards luncheon taking place on March 25-26, 2026, on the ULM campus. . For the 2026 Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup competition, the graduate category prize amounts will be $50,000 for first place, $25,000 for second place, and $10,000 for third place. For the new undergraduate category, the prize amounts will be $25,000 for first place, $15,000 for second place, and $10,000 for third place. Graduates and undergraduates will compete in separate elevator pitch competitions at the Awards Luncheon, with a $2,000 prize on the line for each winner. Additionally, faculty advisors for the first, second, and third-place teams in each category will receive $3,000 each. Cathi Hemed, ULM Director of External Initiatives, states that the new undergraduate category was created to allow for wider competition and more incentive for undergraduate students to compete. “By increasing the prize pool and separating the two divisions, we are touching more lives and encouraging more entrepreneurial creativity across this great state. Now our undergraduates, who may still be in the conceptual stages, are able to compete in their own division, intended to recognize their hard work and encourage them to keep growing,” said Hemed. Dhu Thompson, founder and premier sponsor of the Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup, believes this new investment in the competition will help grow the entrepreneurial spirit that the competition has been fostering since the beginning. “This program has always had its sights on greater impact and more growth. This is a natural step that touches more lives and keeps our momentum going. We set out to change the landscape of entrepreneurship in higher education, and that’s what we will always strive to do,” said Thompson. The winners of the 4th Annual Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup in April 2025 were FarmSmarter.ai, a team comprised of students from Louisiana State University. Since taking home the $50,000 first prize, the company has changed its name to FarmMind.org. It has built an AI-driven agricultural consulting tool that transforms complex farming decisions into accessible, actionable intelligence. FarmMind.org CEO and co-founder Colin Raby says winning the 32 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

2025 Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup gave his company the resources and visibility it needed at a moment when the company might not have survived otherwise. “The win gave FarmMind the lifeline and momentum we needed to finish critical components of our technology, reach our first customers, and begin gaining real market traction,” said Raby. “Now, as we continue to gain traction and open our $1 million raise, we can directly trace our momentum to the opportunity the Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup created; one of the best opportunities for young innovators in Louisiana.” Open to all majors with cash prizes now totaling $157,000, the Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup is the premier business plan competition for Louisiana. It provides an opportunity for students to develop critical thinking, team building, presentation, and other soft skills, which are all important to career growth. The goal is to inspire participants and the community to think entrepreneurially by rewarding creativity, professionalism, and hard work. Teams from any four-year college or university in Louisiana are eligible to submit written, formal business plans, which are then reviewed and scored independently by a panel of volunteer judges made up of business owners and investors. The panel of judges later deliberates in groups to select the six finalist teams. The six finalist teams present in-person oral presentations at The Hangar on the ULM campus. Volunteer judges dedicate their time to listening to each team present their business plan and supporting visuals. The judges then deliberate and select the first, second, and third-place winners. For the 2026 competition, the oral finals and the awards luncheon will take place on consecutive days on March 25 and 26, with the awards luncheon being held at ULM’s Bayou Pointe Event Center. The Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup was founded by distinguished ULM alumnus Dhu Thompson. Thompson is the founder, past owner, and former chairman of the board for Delta Plastics, producer of agricultural irrigation tubing, and the largest recycler of plastics in Arkansas. He is also the former owner and past chairman of the board for Revolution Bag, which manufactures EPA-compliant trashcan liners. Thompson’s honors include 2004 Arkansas Business Executive of the Year and SBA Person of the Year. In 2019 he sold the Revolution brands to a New York private equity firm and now focuses on entrepreneurship growth in Arkansas and Louisiana. In 2023, Thompson received the Warhawk Ambassador Award, one of ULM’s highest honors. Earlier in 2024, Thompson was inducted into the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame. For more information about the Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup please visit ulm.edu/pelicancup.

New Year, New Partner

Cody W. Rials to Join North Delta Title Company of Louisiana, LLC as Partner

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ORTH DELTA TITLE COMPANY OF LOUISIANA, LLC is pleased to announce that Cody W. Rials will join the firm as a partner, effective January 1st, 2026. Cody’s addition to the leadership team represents both an exciting new chapter for the company and a meaningful return to a professional relationship that has spanned nearly two decades. Cody’s history with North Delta Title runs deep. Early in his legal career, he worked as an associate with the company, gaining valuable experience in title work and real estate law. Over the years, he has remained closely connected to North Delta, frequently serving as an outside closing attorney and trusted legal resource. Now, coming full circle, Cody returns to North Delta Title to work alongside Amy and Kirby, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a shared vision for the company’s continued growth and success. A lifelong Louisianan, Cody was born and raised in Monroe, Louisiana, where he developed strong ties to the community and a deep respect for integrity, service, and professionalism. He earned his undergraduate degree in Construction Management from the University of Louisiana Monroe in 2001, providing him with a solid foundation in the practical and technical aspects of construction and development. He went on to receive his Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Civil Law from the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center in 2004, graduating in the top 20 percent of his class. With more than 21 years of legal experience in Louisiana, Cody is the founder of Cody W. Rials, APLC, based in Monroe. He is a member of the prestigious Million Dollar Advocates Forum and holds an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest distinction awarded for legal ability and ethical standards as recognized by peers within the legal profession. Throughout his career, Cody has represented individuals, families, and businesses across Northeast Louisiana in a broad range of civil matters, including real estate transactions, property disputes, estate and succession matters, construction-related issues, and general civil litigation. Beyond his legal practice, Cody has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to service and leadership within the community. He is a former Chairman of Families Helping Families of Northeast Louisiana, an active member of First Methodist Monroe, and a 34 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

dedicated coach for multiple youth athletic teams. He also frequently advises the board of the Northeast Louisiana Homebuilders Association and regularly presents continuing education programs for its members, further reflecting his dedication to education, mentorship, and professional excellence. While Cody will continue to maintain his general civil law practice and serve his existing clients, his primary professional focus moving forward will be on residential, commercial, and agricultural real estate transactions. His extensive background in real estate law and construction-related matters will further strengthen North Delta Title’s ability to serve clients with increasingly complex and sophisticated real estate needs throughout the region. Cody is married to Elizabeth (Jaubert) Rials, and together they are raising their two children, Madeline and Jackson, in Monroe. Please join us in welcoming Cody W. Rials as a partner at North Delta Title Company of Louisiana, LLC. We look forward to continuing to serve Realtors, lenders, buyers, sellers, and the entire community with the same commitment to excellence, professionalism, and personal service that has defined North Delta Title for years. As always, thank you for your continued trust and business. Amy & Kirby North Delta Title Company 1100 North 19th Street, Monroe 318.387.1100

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H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

So Fresh. So Clean.

Try this holistic, homemade clean air spray and allpurpose cleaner. No harsh chemicals and the naturally antibacterial properties of these solutions make them a “go to” refresher/cleaner you can feel good about. Styled by MARÉ BRENNAN Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

NATURAL AIR FRESHENER What you need: 8 ounce spray bottle 1/2 cup witch hazel 1/2 cup distilled water 20 drops lemongrass essential oil 20 drops eucalyptus essential oil Directions: Combine all ingredients in spray bottle. Shake well before each use. Spray into air wherever you want to boost the freshness level. Breathe in and elevate your mood.

ALL-PURPOSE CLEANER What you need: 1 16 ounce spray bottle 1 cup distilled water 1 cup white vinegar 20 drops of lemon essential oil 20 drops of tea tree essential oil Directions: Combine all liquids in spray bottle, shake thoroughly, and clean away!

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Fueling the Golden Years Nutrition Tips Every Senior Should Know

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OST SENIOR CITIZENS AREN’T GETTING ENOUGH protein, yet it’s one of the most important nutrients for staying strong and healthy as we age. Protein helps maintain muscle, supports healing, and keeps energy levels steady — but it also plays an essential role in heart and brain health. One standout source? Fish. The Power of Protein & Omega-3s Did you know that fish — especially salmon and tuna — isn’t just a good source of protein, but also rich in omega-3 fatty acids? These healthy fats support heart and brain function, reduce inflammation, and may even help protect against memory decline as we age. Eating fatty fish regularly is one of the best dietary habits seniors can adopt. Fisher Alzheimer’s Research But fish isn’t the only option! Eggs — boiled, scrambled, or made into omelets with veggies — are versatile and easy to chew. Oatmeal is healthy on its own, but adding protein like peanut butter, sausage, or Greek yogurt turns it into a balanced breakfast. Milk adds calcium for strong bones, while fruits like oranges and berries bring fiber and vitamins without any fuss. Vegetables & Fiber: Simple, Vital Add-Ons Add something green! Leafy vegetables — especially when cooked — provide essential vitamins and fiber that are easy on the stomach and great for digestive health. Pair them with sources of protein like beans, peas, and legumes for meals that are both nutritious and easy to chew. Snack Smart, Snack Real Healthy snacking doesn’t have to be boring. Try options like: Yogurt, fruit, cheese, veggies and dips, oatmeal bars with blueberries, smoothie popsicles, chocolate-covered strawberries, banana bread and pineapple upside-down cake. These are all enjoyable choices that still focus on real food, not empty calories. Why Nutrition Matters at Every Age Good nutrition gives you energy and helps control your weight — but its benefits go far deeper. Eating well may also lower the risk of: Osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. Balanced eating also supports healthy immune function and overall well-being. Challenges to Eating Well as We Age Growing older brings some common hurdles: Living alone or difficulty getting around, health problems that make cooking harder, medications that alter taste or reduce appetite, 38 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

lower income for groceries, changes in sense of smell or taste and trouble chewing or swallowing can all be challenges. Recognizing these barriers is key to finding practical solutions — like choosing softer foods, comfortable portion sizes, and meals that are easy to prepare. Food & The Aging Brain As the U.S. population ages, more adults develop thinking and memory problems such as mild cognitive impairment. Research suggests that healthy eating habits — especially those rich in leafy greens, berries, fish, beans, nuts, and whole grains — may help protect the brain and slow cognitive decline. These principles are embodied in a dietary approach known as the MIND diet, which has shown promise in reducing the risk of memory problems and preserving thinking skills over time. People who follow this pattern more closely tend to experience slower cognitive decline compared to those with less healthy eating habits. (Multiple long-term studies have linked better diet patterns like this to brain health.) Simple Tips for Healthy Aging: Here are practical ways to make nutrition and lifestyle work for you: Choose More Nutrient-Rich Foods: Whole grains, wholegrain breads, and cereals, beans, nuts, and seeds and deeply colored vegetables and fresh fruits Cook Smarter: Broil, grill, or boil instead of frying and add highprotein foods to every meal Drink Fluids: Older adults may feel less thirsty, but hydration is essential for your body to function properly. Water, herbal teas, and broths all count! Ask your doctor if fluid intake should be adjusted to your needs. Stay Active: Regular physical activity — even just a brisk fiveminute walk — improves strength, balance, and mood. Activities don’t have to be intense: walking the dog, dancing, gardening, and group exercises all count. Stay Connected: Sharing meals with family, friends, or community groups boosts appetite and makes healthy eating more enjoyable. Social engagement also supports mental and emotional well-being.Good nutrition isn’t just about eating — it’s about thriving. With protein-rich meals, colorful produce, regular activity, and meals shared with others, you can nourish your body and mind through every stage of life.

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B AYO U E AT S

Viet House

Rooted in heritage and community, Kate Nguyen is brewing authentic Vietnamese culture into North Louisiana’s coffee scene, one phindripped cup at a time. ARTICLE BY STARLA GATSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

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ate Nguyen can’t hide her pride in her Vietnamese heritage. Not that she’s trying to. That pride is essentially the foundation on which her business, Viet House Coffee & Tea, is built. Nguyen comes from a family where you drink coffee every morning and an area where, as she told KNOE in 2024, “there are coffee shops sitting right next to coffee shops.” Nguyen isn’t talking about the coffee drinks that likely came to your mind — drip coffee or espresso-based drinks like lattes, Americanos, or cortados. She’s talking about authentic Vietnamese coffee, slow-dripped through a phin filter from strong, bold beans and sweetened with condensed milk. When Nguyen noticed Monroe-West Monroe lacked an establishment that served the authentic pick-me-up, she was inspired to solve the problem. Thus, Viet House Coffee & Tea was born. The shop, located at 100 Basic Drive in West Monroe, opened in 2023 and boasts a diverse menu that not only includes the traditional Vietnamese coffee Nguyen longed to share with her community, but also offers a variety of other options. Between the Vietnamese coffee beverages, espresso-based drinks, matcha, fruit teas, and milk teas, there’s something for everyone to sip on. 40 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

While Nguyen can’t pick a personal favorite menu item — “[That] would be like picking a favorite child!” she cries with a laugh — she says customers tend to order The Hanoian, Salted Cream, and Coco Cloud most often. These three beverages are particularly special, Nguyen explains, as each represents a different region of Vietnam. “[The Hanoian] is creme brulee, which is egg coffee, and the recipe is originally from Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam,” she says. “The [Salted Cream] came out of Central Vietnam, and the [Coco Cloud] represents South Vietnam since coconut is mainly grown there.” Despite having coffee and tea in its name, the shop sells more than just those beverages. In fact, Viet House sells more than just beverages, period. Food items are on the menu, too, as breaking bread with friends and family is another aspect of Vietnamese culture that Nguyen is eager to share with Ouachita and the surrounding parishes. “Similar to in America, food is the way to our heart, and it’s how we open up a lot of conversations,” she shares. “People do business over food, and like over here [in America,] every time we get together, we ask each other to go eat or cook something. I grew up with friends and family gathering around a table full of food. Our parents would show love by asking our friends and us if we’ve eaten yet. They would literally show love through food and drink. It’s a big part of the culture.” Because food is such a key player in Vietnamese culture, the pho, ramen, and egg rolls Nguyen sells are cooked according to traditional recipes.

Viet House opened in 2023 and boasts a diverse menu that not only includes the traditional Vietnamese coffee Nguyen longed to share with her community, but also offers a variety of other options. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 41

“We are trying to be as authentic as we can,” Nguyen declares, explaining that it’s sort of her generation’s responsibility to do so as they pass pieces of the culture down. “We call ourselves second generation. The first generation is our parents, and our children are fully American. We are the bridge generation.” Clinging to tradition not only keeps Vietnamese tradition alive for the generations to come. It also adds to American culture as a whole, Nguyen says. “America is a melting pot,” she states before noting how honored she is to share part of her culture with the community. “It’s a way of showing thanks to the community and country that welcomed us. We became a part of it, and since we bring aspects of our culture, we’re adding onto it.” Besides serving authentic Vietnamese food and drink, Nguyen also shares her culture and its traditions through events like the Lunar New Year. She and the Viet House crew celebrate it in the shop every year, decorating the space with authentic decorations, wearing traditional garb, and handing out red lucky envelopes — an act wishing the recipient good fortune in the new year — to customers and staff members. Some may assume Nguyen’s devotion to tradition means she’s unwilling to embrace change or modernity in the shop. But that couldn’t be further from the truth, she says, noting, “I want to bring an authentic vibe, but also fun for younger generations.” Viet House sells an assortment of non-traditional foods, including ice cream, house-made cheesecake, waffles, Hong Kong-style bubble waffles, and the croissant-waffle hybrid, the croffle. Additionally, Nguyen is committed to learning and evolving, which is why she sets aside a few days multiple times a year to learn about Asian cuisine. Coincidentally, as Nguyen speaks to BayouLife, she’s out of town taking classes in preparation for the changes she plans to implement throughout 2026. “I take about two or three trips to California, Dallas, Houston, any area dense with our Vietnamese community,” she shares, “and I take courses so we can update our menu with new items and bring those here. We want y’all to be able to [go to other places] and say, ‘Oh, I already had that at Viet House back home.’” Anything that goes on the menu is meticulously researched and tested, as Nguyen is eager to serve only the highest quality food and drink. “We tell people to drink or eat with a critic’s mind,” she explains. “I don’t mind taking criticism. Let us know how you like it and how we should improve.” With that in mind, Viet House customers can have full faith that, if Viet House introduces something new, it’ll be worth trying. Speaking of new items to try, Nguyen says Viet House patrons can expect to see quite a few of them on the menu beginning in January 2026. “We’ll have more Asian fusion items, so Asian food with a twist of Western fun in it,” she says. Viet House will also be offering breakfast items to customers, plus refreshing, dirty soda-like beverages Nguyen is calling mojitos. The shop will also be leaning more heavily into its partnership with the Monroe Moccasins hockey team — Viet House is the team’s official sponsor — by hosting meet and greets with players and offering ticket giveaways. 42 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

We are deeply, deeply blessed and thankful,” Nguyen says of owning and operating Viet House. “It’s been a tremendous blessing from God and from the community.”

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Nguyen says 2026 will bring “nonstop change” to Viet House, but she’s not nervous about it. “Change is good, right?” she asks before adding, “We’ve been planning these for a while, and we’ll go one or two at a time.” Though a lot about Viet House will shift, you can bet two things will remain unchanged: Nguyen’s cultural pride, which shows up in all she and her shop do, and her deep gratitude to the team that helps keep Viet House running. “They put me at the front [of the company,] but I credit the whole team,” Nguyen says. “My husband was helping us. My brother-in-law was a manager, helping us as well. My sister, even though her name isn’t on [the business,] helps. I can’t take all the credit for it. It takes a village.” If you’ve ever supported Viet House in some capacity, by making a purchase or even through an act as small as sharing a social media post about it, Nguyen considers you part of her village. She says she knows she and her team wouldn’t be able to do what they do without her customers, and she’s grateful for each of them. “We are deeply, deeply blessed and thankful,” she says of owning and operating Viet House. “It’s been a tremendous blessing from God and from the community.” Nguyen and her crew are at Viet House seven days a week, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday, or from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sundays. Lunch service begins at 10:00 a.m. daily, and for a fast Vietnamese coffee fix, take advantage of Viet House’s drivethrough.

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Warm and Cozy A Wintertime Wandering

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ARMTH IS A SIMPLE WORD, BUT I THINK IT carries more weight than people give it credit for. You’d be inclined to think that it’s just something for thermometers to measure or meteorologists to forecast, but warmth lives somewhere else entirely. Warmth is the quiet difference between walking through the front door of a house and walking the front door of home. A truly warm home does not demand attention. When a house becomes a home, you don’t think about the building itself. You think about your coffee. You think about the day ahead. You sit still longer than you planned to. The house fades into the background. What’s left is a feeling of stability that occupies your thoughts, your memories, your plans, and your ambitions. That stability matters more than we realize. It affects how rested we feel. How we rest shapes how we work and how we show up for the people we love. When a home feels steady, the life inside it tends to be steady too. Warmth is the comfort you feel when you come in from the cold, and the house doesn’t argue with you. It doesn’t groan or hiss. It simply receives you. The air is steady. The floors do not bite at your feet. The room says, “You’re all right now. Everything is all right.” That kind of warmth is easy to overlook—until it’s gone. Cozy, too, is a fuzzy word. It is not softness alone. It isn’t just blankets folded over a chair, rugs layered on the floor, or lamps turned low in the corner. Those things help, but cozy is deeper than décor. Cozy is the absence of worry. It is knowing that the house will hold its ground against the cold outside. Knowing the house will not surprise you in the middle of the night. Knowing that you will wake in the morning and the world indoors will still be kind. There is comfort in predictability. In knowing that your house will behave the way it should, without drama or complaint. A better word for it would be reliability. That kind of quiet reliability frees your mind to think about other things—family, work, vacation to Broken Bow or 30A, or sometimes nothing at all. Cold homes make you restless. You feel it even if you don’t name it. You wander from room to room looking for comfort, adjusting vents, piling on layers, listening too closely for sounds you don’t want to hear. You make small compromises without realizing it. You avoid

certain rooms, accept that the bathroom is just always cold, and tell yourself, “This is just how the house is.” Over time those compromises add up. You stop expecting to be comfortable. The bar is lowered, and without realizing it, you’re covering yourself in an electric blanket instead of snuggling into the ottoman throw your grandmother made you. A warm home lets you settle. It allows you to rest your shoulders and unclench your jaw. It gives you permission to slow down. You linger at the table. You stay put on the couch. You stop chasing comfort because it has already found you. If you’ve lived through a few arctic blasts and snowpocolypse, you understand this instinctively. Warmth has always meant more than simply surviving a cold winter. It carries confidence with it. The comfort of knowing that you’re prepared. That the systems you rely on will do their job. That everything is under control. This is why warmth feels different in January. The holidays have passed. The pace slows. Mornings linger a little longer. You finally have time to notice things you rushed past before. You notice how the house responds on the coldest mornings. Which rooms feel inviting and which ones don’t. January has a way of telling the truth. It reveals what was prepared for and what was neglected. It tells you what’s working and what isn’t. And it can do it in a hurry. Warm and cozy doesn’t mean indulgence. It means stability. It is the steady pulse of a home that works as whole. Walls, air, heat and human life move together without friction, without complaint. Maybe that’s why warmth feels so good in January. Not because warm is the opposite of cold, but because true warmth reminds us of what we built deliberately and cared for over time. Warmth is deeply felt when it is done right. A warm home might be quiet and calm or loud and boisterous. It might be full of conversation and motion or quietly still. Either way, a warm and cozy home holds you and keeps you comfortable while winter passes outside your door. Jerod Smith Mike Smith Heat & Air West Monroe, LA WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 45

Spotlighting Human Trafficking Support the Fight Against Trafficking

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T’S AN UNCOMFORTABLE TRUTH: HUMAN TRAFFICKING exists beyond the movie screens and is happening in our own community every day. Across Louisiana and Mississippi, children and families experience exploitation, manipulation, and abuse at rates that shock most people. The Center for Children & Families exists to provide hope and healing to those affected by this darkness. This January, The Center calls our community to participate in Human Trafficking Awareness Month and to stand with the most vulnerable children. This is a time to bring attention to an issue that thrives in secrecy, but one that dies in the light. Together, we can bring change, hope, and healing. Awareness is the first stepeducation and support are the next. The Faces Behind the Statistics Every year, The Center for Children & Families encounters children who are victims of sex trafficking, labor trafficking, familial trafficking, survival trafficking, or online exploitation. To date, our Children’s Advocacy Center has worked with 93 confirmed human trafficking cases—93 children whose safety, innocence, and futures were threatened. These are children whose lives have been disrupted by fear, violence, and betrayal. These children need compassionate care, advocacy, and a path to healing. The most commonly reported form of trafficking in the United States is sex trafficking, and a heartbreaking number of these victims are children. Human trafficking is the crime of using force, fraud, or coercion to compel someone into labor or commercial sex acts against their will. Victims can be any age, race, gender, or background. They may be forced to work in restaurants, construction, seafood, or agriculture, or coerced into survival sex. Tragically, many trafficked children are exploited by people they know and trust, including family members, neighbors, or coaches. Others are deceived online or through false promises of safety, money, or a better life. A Place to Heal and Be Heard Since 1999, The Center for Children & Families has been committed to promoting safe, healthy environments through advocacy, counseling, education, and prevention. Our licensed counselors help children process trauma and regain a sense of safety. Our advocates work tirelessly to ensure every child has 46 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

someone speaking up for them, navigating systems that often feel overwhelming or inaccessible. And our prevention and education programs empower families and communities to recognize the signs of exploitation before it’s too late. We don’t just see victims—we see children worthy of dignity who deserve to be protected and who are capable of healing, resilience, and hope. One teenage girl we served, forced to flee her home and fend for herself after being coerced into labor, shared with her counselor, “I didn’t know anyone cared I was missing. Now I feel like I belong somewhere.” Moments like these are why our work matters: because hope is the first step toward a life reclaimed. Take Action: Support the Fight Against Trafficking Human Trafficking Awareness Month is more than a campaign— it’s a call to action. By supporting The Center for Children & Families, you are helping provide life-changing services to children who have been exploited and trafficked. Every month, your donation helps cover therapy sessions, advocacy support, safety planning, and essential resources for families in crisis. Just $25 a month can help a child begin counseling, receive guidance from a dedicated advocate, and take their first steps toward safety and stability. Every gift—large or small—ensures children in our care are not forgotten and that their journey toward healing continues. This month, and every month, we invite you to be a part of the solution. Together, we can shine a light in the darkness, restore hope to the most vulnerable, and protect the children who are counting on us. Join us. Become a monthly donor today. Help bring safety, healing, and hope to children in need. Visit standforhope.org/give.

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VCOM-Louisiana

Training Physicians Who Make A Difference In The Delta Every Day

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ESTLED ALONG THE SPARKLING WATERS OF BAYOU DeSiard on the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) campus, VCOM-Louisiana is the state’s first and only college of osteopathic medicine. Osteopathic medicine emphasizes the interconnectedness of all systems in the body, which means that osteopathic physicians treat patients holistically and consider the whole person in promoting health and healing. Osteopathic physicians are fully licensed to practice medicine across the United States. VCOM-Louisiana is one of VCOM’s four campuses; the others are located in Blacksburg, Virginia; Spartanburg, South Carolina; and Auburn, Alabama. The faculty at all four VCOM campuses train future doctors to make a difference in their communities—especially in rural areas where healthcare is limited—while contributing to research that improves lives around the world. Louisiana faces a critical physician shortage, projected to reach 100 fewer doctors per 100,000 residents by 2030. About 15% of the state’s population lives in rural areas where access to care is limited. VCOM-Louisiana is dedicated to training and retaining physicians to meet this need. Nearly half of the Class of 2025 matched to residencies in Louisiana or neighboring states, and over the past two years, VCOM-Louisiana has proudly graduated 290 physicians who will strengthen healthcare throughout Louisiana and neighboring states. As the only osteopathic medical school in Louisiana, VCOMLouisiana recruits students from rural communities with the hope they will return to serve their hometowns as skilled, compassionate physicians. More than one-third of current students are Louisiana residents, and across all four campuses, nearly one-fourth of VCOM graduates practice within 75 miles of where they grew up. VCOM-Louisiana is deeply integrated into life on the Bayou and takes pride in its ongoing partnership with ULM. Together, the institutions foster interprofessional education (IPE) opportunities, uniting students from VCOM-Louisiana, the ULM College of Pharmacy, and the ULM Marjorie S. Price Doctor of Physical Therapy program. The College also hosts Mini-Medical School events and partners with programs such as the ULM TRIO Educational Talent Search to introduce high school students to health science careers and the possibility of attending medical school close to home. 48 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Collaborative research between VCOM-Louisiana and ULM faculty continues to advance medical knowledge and innovation. VCOM-Louisiana also sponsors ULM Warhawk athletics and supports ULM athletes’ health and strength by providing sports physicals. Additionally, through partnerships with local high schools such as Richwood and Wossman, VCOM-Louisiana is proud to care for the Delta’s young athletes. VCOM-Louisiana students have dedicated thousands of hours to community volunteer work. You’ll find them rolling up their sleeves and making a difference in all sorts of ways, from providing blood pressure screenings and CPR demonstrations at local health fairs, to beautifying neighborhoods through Ouachita Green, serving meals to residents experiencing homelessness with The Simple Project, and bringing smiles to children at the MedCamps of Louisiana Fall carnival. Expanding access to care, VCOM-Louisiana’s mobile medical units—made possible through a partnership with the Ouachita Parish Police Jury—bring patient care to rural and under resourced communities in need. Students, supervised by VCOM faculty, deliver free screenings and wellness education at locations such as the West Ouachita Senior Center and Franklin Medical Center, embodying the College’s mission to treat illness while promoting prevention, wellness, and trust. This October, 162 students in the Class of 2029 received their white coats, marking the start of their journey into the medical profession and their commitment to patient care, compassion, and excellence. Today, VCOM-Louisiana educates 613 students, continuing a legacy of producing physicians ready to meet the healthcare challenges of Louisiana and beyond. Wherever healthcare is needed in the Delta, VCOM-Louisiana students and faculty are there—making a difference, one patient at a time.

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IN THE GARDEN

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APPY NEW YEAR! Cassie said this month’s issue is about renewal, health, beauty, and wellness. The early New Year is a great opportunity to appreciate how our ArkLaMiss gardens and landscapes bring us all these not only during the growing season, but throughout each twelve-month trip around the sun. And 2026 will be no exception! RENEWEL Even in January, when a gardener’s winter doldrums may be at their peak, the northern Louisiana landscape is already showing promise of another rejuvenating spring. This includes our home gardens and orchards. Daylight hours have been gradually increasing since last month’s winter solstice and before we know it, buds will start swelling and the outdoors will start waking up from its winter nap. There’s not a better example of renewal than annual pruning of deciduous fruit trees and vines. Pruning mature fruit trees is a requirement if good production is the goal this season. This month through early February is the perfect time to prune fruit trees to manage size, optimize sunlight penetration and air circulation in the canopy, and to promote flower and fruit production. Two types of cuts are made when pruning: heading cuts and thinning cuts. The goal of heading cuts is to remove the terminal (apical) bud of a branch. This promotes lateral branch growth. The lateral branches are where most of the flowers and fruit will be produced. The goal of thinning cuts is to open the canopy by removing unproductive and unnecessary branches. Good air circulation through the tree’s canopy or bush’s interior will reduce the occurrence of fungal pathogens and sunlight penetration will promote healthy, new growth. If thinning out lateral branches on a fruit tree, always make the cut as parallel as possible to the line formed by the branch collar and bark ridge where the branch attaches to the main trunk. This way, the tree is better able to seal the wound on its own and reduce the risk of fungal infection. Synthetic sealers available at most garden centers aren’t necessary if the cut is made properly. Plus, a synthetic wound sealer may trap excess moisture in the wound and woody tissue which will promote decay. I’ve said before pruning is the chore most gardeners love to hate. There are those who overthink it, become faint of heart and wind up not pruning enough material off which impacts flower

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Distylium is becoming a popular evergreen for foundation plantings. Photo by Allen Owings, Bracy’s Nursery.

‘Aphrodite’ Althea produces brilliant pink flowers all summer. Photo by Kerry Heafner.

and fruit production. At the opposite end of the spectrum, there are those who take a more quixotic approach and wind up going overboard and stressing the tree or vine. Keep these general tips in mind when pruning fruit trees and vines in preparation for this coming spring and summer. • Strike a happy medium between removing too little material and removing too much material. You’re not going to kill it. I promise. • No two trees will need an identical number of cuts. Each tree is unique in this regard. • If in doubt, give me a call (318-323-2251, ext. 103) and I’ll be glad to come help you make wise pruning choices and offer soothing words. I bet you thought composting would be the topic for renewal! I can’t pass up a good “soapbox opportunity” so remember your fallen leaves are one of the best resources available for conditioning soil in your beds. Leaves decompose relatively quickly and earthworms, nature’s own underground tillers, will help convert them into one of the finest soil amendments to be had. Thicker leaves, like those of oaks, may take longer to decompose but they’re just as useful. Chop them with a lawn mower or leaf shredder so soil microbes will have more surface area to work on. Keeping them moist will hasten the process, so don’t forget to water periodically if rain events are infrequent.

Finally, if a freeze is predicted, leaves make a great mulch that can be layered around plants for protection. Best of all, leaves are free! In today’s economy does it get any better? No tariffs on leaves! HEALTH Our gardens and landscapes give us many opportunities to live a healthy lifestyle and that, hopefully, translates into longevity! Have you ever wondered how folks who are up in years get to be…well… up in years? I’m lucky (so far) that longevity runs on both sides of my family. Genetics notwithstanding, ancestors who lived well into their 80s, 90s, or in a few cases longer, likely did so because they ate heartier diets and lived active, more aerobic lifestyles. Farming and gardening came with the territory. They had to grow it, raise and slaughter it, or hunt it in order to eat it. If you have a garden or manage your landscape yourself, then expensive memberships to fitness clubs and gyms are not required. You’ll stay active enough to burn calories and get the heart pumping for sure but healthful benefits of gardening don’t stop with simply burning calories. According to experts at the Cleveland Clinic, gardening is a way to ward off osteoporosis by getting us outdoors into sunshine and fresh air. Sunlight stimulates the production of Vitamin D, which stimulates strong bones by helping our bodies absorb calcium. Using garden tools and pushing a wheelbarrow helps tone muscles and strengthen bones. Gardening has been shown to be good for brain health, too. Being outdoors in fresh air lifts our moods, exercises decisionmaking skills by selecting what to plant, when to plant, where to plant, etc., and gives us a sense of satisfaction when our plants grow and produce. Plus, a bountiful harvest taken directly from the back yard to the kitchen gives us peace of mind. Personally, I don’t think I feel more satisfied than when most of dinner comes from the back yard. In addition to the sense of accomplishment, I know I’m eating healthier, too! Cooking from scratch using ingredients grown in the home garden is the way to go. BEAUTY There isn’t a single one of us who doesn’t enjoy living in attractive surroundings and beautiful landscapes. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, however. To some of us, beauty is trimming azalea hedges in straight lines, a lawn mowed within an inch of its life, and Crape Myrtles cut off like fence posts. Those are not things that I find beauty in. But, like the fellow that kissed the mule said, “Everybody to his own taste.” An undisturbed patch of woods, a fresh cluster of wild mushrooms, the color patterns on heirloom seeds…these

Thinning cuts should be made as close and parallel to the branch collar as possible. Diagram from Modern Arboriculture, Dr. Alex Shigo.

We reap all the healthy benefits of our gardens when we keep our gardens healthy! Adobe Stock photo.

are a few of my favorite things. We rely on healthy plants and their brilliant colors to liven up our surroundings and there is still plenty of time to install woody perennials into your landscape for seasonal color. Look no further than the current list of Louisiana Super Plants! If you’re planting shade trees, look at Willow Oak, Bald Cypress, or Southern Sugar Maple. If you’re looking for a foundation evergreen, consider ‘Cinnamon Girl’ Distylium. If you’re looking for summer color in a shrub, consider ‘Aphrodite’ Althea (one of my favorites). If you’re looking for color using foliage, Coleus is a must-have. ‘Henna’ and the ‘Flame Thrower’ series pack a punch and are perfect for both in-ground beds and container arrangements. If attracting pollinators is the goal, there are more options than space here allows, but start with Indica Azaleas, ‘Intenz Classic’ Celosia, ‘Lucky Star’ and ‘Butterfly’ Pentas, and ‘Shoal Creek’ Vitex for early summer. And the list goes on and on and on…. WELLNESS Productive gardens and landscapes contribute to our overall wellness by giving us aerobic exercise, fresh air to breathe, healthy soil for healthy plants, nutritious food, and eye-popping color. What’s not to look forward to in the new year? I can’t wait and I hope you’re excited too!

Tune in to Louisiana Livin every Tuesday at 4:30 for In the Garden with Kerry Heafner of the LSU AgCenter. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 51

Start Strong in 2026 Your Peak of Healthcare Awaits

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S WE WELCOME THE NEW YEAR, MANY OF US EMBRACE January as a fresh beginning—a time to invest in our health and well-being. Whether your goal is losing weight, reducing stress, improving your mental clarity, or simply feeling your best, the path to a healthier 2026 begins with taking the first step. At Pinnacle Family Health in West Monroe, we’re here to support every aspect of your wellness journey with comprehensive, compassionate healthcare services designed to meet your unique needs. The most successful New Year’s health goals aren’t about dramatic overhauls; they’re about making small, sustainable changes that add up to meaningful transformation. However, achieving these goals requires more than willpower alone. You need a trusted healthcare partner who understands your whole self—not just treating symptoms when they arise, but partnering with you to prevent problems before they start. That’s where Pinnacle Family Health comes in. Building Your Foundation with Primary Care Every successful health journey starts with a solid foundation, and primary care is the cornerstone of preventive healthcare. Our primary care providers at Pinnacle offer comprehensive wellness exams, health screening, and personalized guidance to help you identify potential health issues early, when they’re easiest to treat. By establishing a relationship with a primary care provider at Pinnacle, you gain a healthcare advocate who knows your medical history, understands your risk factors, and can help coordinate all aspects of your care throughout the year. Regular preventive visits aren’t just about catching problems— they’re about building the knowledge and accountability you need to make informed health decisions. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or simply want to optimize your overall health, our primary care team will work with you to develop a plan that fits your life and your goals. Supporting Your Mental Health and Wellness While physical health is important, your mental health is equally vital to living your best life in 2026. Research shows that many people are prioritizing mental wellness as part of their New Year’s goals, with an increased focus on stress reduction and emotional well-being. At Pinnacle, our mental health counseling services provide evidencebased support for depression, anxiety, stress, and life transitions. Our experienced counselors help you develop coping strategies, build resilience, and address the emotional components of your overall health. 52 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Additionally, our psychiatric medication management services ensure that if medication is part of your wellness plan, you’re receiving expert monitoring and adjustments to optimize your mental health and quality of life. Addressing Substance Use and Tobacco Dependency If reducing substance use or quitting tobacco is on your 2026 resolution list, Pinnacle Family Health provides specialized support. Our substance use counseling services combine evidence-based treatment approaches with compassionate care to help you overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery. Our trained counselors understand the challenges of breaking free from dependency and provide the personalized support needed for success. For those committed to quitting tobacco, our tobacco cessation counseling program offers practical strategies, education, and ongoing support to help you become smoke-free and reduce your health risks. Addressing ADHD and Behavioral Health Many people struggle with attention and focus throughout their lives without realizing they could benefit from evaluation and treatment. Our ADHD testing and treatment services help identify attention-deficit concerns in both children and adults, opening the door to strategies and treatments that can dramatically improve school performance, work productivity, and overall quality of life. Early intervention and proper support make a significant difference in long-term outcomes. Don’t Forget Your Smile Oral health is an essential part of overall wellness, yet many people neglect dental care. Dental care services at Pinnacle help you maintain healthy teeth and gums, prevent serious dental disease, and feel confident in your smile. Regular dental visits are part of the preventive care strategy that contributes to better long-term health outcomes. Take Action to Take Control of Your Health! Starting the new year healthy means taking action now. Small, specific habits—whether that’s scheduling your first primary care visit, committing to mental health counseling, addressing a substance use concern, or getting your teeth checked—create momentum that compounds throughout the year. Pinnacle Family Health is ready to be your partner in 2026. Our compassionate, skilled providers are committed to meeting you where you are and supporting you toward your health goals. Don’t wait another day. Contact Pinnacle Family Health in West Monroe today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward your healthiest year yet.

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B AY O U H E A L T H BY N ATH A N M O R R I S , M D

THE SER IOUS CONSEQU ENCE OF BEING OV ERS TRE SSED

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ost of us know what stress feels like—tight shoulders, a racing mind, trouble sleeping. But what many people don’t realize is that chronic, unrelenting stress is one of the most powerful accelerators of aging. It affects nearly every organ system, fuels inflammation, and increases the risk of almost every major chronic disease. The body actually needs stress. In short bouts of stress like strenuous exercise, it adapts to that stress and makes us stronger and more resilient. In acute situations, it helps us focus, prepare for fight or flight with increased adrenaline, and kicks off our immune system in case we get bit by the tiger it thinks is chasing us. When the stress episode is done then our body is supposed to go back into our most healthy state, that of calm. It is in the calm state where our immune system can fight cancers that may pop up, our blood pressure lowers and our heart works less hard, and we repair our bodies. It is when we don’t go back into that calm state for long periods that we have problems. It is the slow, steady drip of pressure from work, finances, caregiving, medical issues, or constant digital stimulation that causes the stress response to become toxic. How Stress Works-And What Goes Wrong As previously mentioned, stress is a natural event in daily life and helped us survive when a slow reaction or lack of attention would have been deadly. It is natural. We have evolved to handle short bouts of stress. We handle stress by the brain perceiving a threat then sending signals to the body to get ready. One of the most important systems for stress starts with a hormone being sent from the brain to the adrenal gland on top of the kidneys which releases both adrenaline and cortisol. Cortisol is life giving. Without it we are very sick and cannot function properly and have severe fatigue, but as they say, “too much of a good thing, is not a good thing”. Chronic exposure to excessive amounts of stress hormones like cortisol are eventually aging and lead to many diseases. The problem lies in that most people are a little too used to stress and are not quite used to not being stressed. Unfortunately, the cortisol levels will eventually become dysregulated, where they can constantly be high causing anxiety, high blood pressure, and insomnia or drop low and cause severe fatigue and depression as the dominant symptoms. When it is chronically low it is in layman’s term often spoken of 54 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

as adrenal fatigue or medically, HPA axis dysfunction. The good news for both high and low cortisol is that they are very treatable in functional medicine. Chronic Stress and Aging It is important to address chronic stress as it makes us age faster than almost any other the we encounter besides an ultraprocessed diet. Stress ages us through the following processes 1. Mitochondria-the tiny energy factories inside every cell are important to aging and overall health. Stress hormones and inflammation impair mitochondrial function, reducing energy output and increasing oxidative damage. Oxidative damage is what ages us. Oxidative damage also contributes to fatigue, brain fog, and even neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. 2. Shortened Telomeres-Telomeres, the protective caps on our chromosomes, shorten naturally over time. But chronic stress speeds up this shortening process. Studies show caregivers, trauma survivors, and individuals with high perceived stress have dramatically shorter telomeres and show signs of premature aging. 3. Epigenetic Change-Stress alters the way our genes are expressed through chemical changes known as epigenetic modifications. These shifts can push our “epigenetic clock” years ahead, increasing vulnerability to disease. 4. Cellular Inflammation-Chronic stress drives a phenomenon scientists call inflammaging—a low-grade, persistent inflammatory state that contributes to heart disease, diabetes, cancer, dementia, and frailty. Stress and Other Health Issues The Brain-Stress shrinks the hippocampus, the brain’s memory center, and impairs the prefrontal cortex, affecting focus, planning, and emotional regulation. Over time, stress increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. The Heart-Stress raises blood pressure, stiffens blood vessels, and disrupts heart rhythm. It is a significant, often underestimated contributor to heart attacks and strokes—even in people without traditional cardiac risk factors. Metabolism-Chronic stress leads to insulin resistance, weight gain in the abdomen, sugar cravings, and elevated triglycerides—

classic features of metabolic syndrome. Immunity-Stress weakens antiviral and cancer defenses and can increase susceptibility to infections. It can also heighten the risk of autoimmune disease by confusing immune regulation. Gut Health-Stress affects the gut-brain axis, contributing to IBS, bloating, reflux, and especially changes in the microbiome. It also increases intestinal permeability, sometimes called “leaky gut,” which feeds inflammation. Hormones-Chronic stress suppresses reproductive hormones in both men and women, contributing to low libido, irregular cycles, fertility issues, and low testosterone. In many ways, stress is the unseen hand behind conditions we often blame on “getting older.” What Do We Do with Stress? The first step is identifying the effects of chronic stress which is harder than it seems because many of us think of these issues as “normal” • Fatigue, especially in the morning • Frequent infections or slow recovery • Poor sleep or waking at 2–3 a.m. • Brain fog, forgetfulness • Digestive issues • High blood pressure or rapid heart rate • Emotional overwhelmed on the daily The next step is doing something about it. As Hans Selye said, “It’s not stress that kills us;it is our reaction to it” 1. Lowering Physiological Stress • 8 hours of sleep and in bed by 10 PM • Anti-inflammatory nutrition (limit processed foods and eat

more fruits and vegetables) • Supplements such as magnesium, L-theanine, omega-3s, and adaptogens like ashwagandha • Exercise and strength training (moderation is key) 2. Resetting the Nervous System • Breathwork, especially slow 4–6 breathing • Heart rate variability training • Sauna, cold exposure, nature immersion 3. Psychological Strategies • Mindfulness and meditation-10 mins a day works • Counseling • Setting healthy relationship boundaries • Reducing digital overload (big one) 4. Social Connection Humans are wired for connection. Strong relationships buffer the effects of stress and are consistently linked with longer life expectancy. Wrap Up Stress is a part of everyone’s daily life. How we perceive it by being mindful, and then what we do about it will determine if it is a healthy part of our life or a detrimental one.

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Homemade Soothing & Shimmery Lip Balm

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Winter can take its toll on your lips. Add soothing moisture to alleviate cracking for soft, supple lips with a customizable lip balm you can make in 30 minutes or less.

What you need: Push tubes 5-10 6 TBSP avocado oil 2 TBSP coconut oil 2 TBSP white beeswax 1 1/2 TBSP cera bellina wax 1 tsp vitamin E oil 20 drops of peppermint essential oil (can be customized with any essential oil you wish) 1 1/2 tsp rose gold mica (can be customized with any color mica you wish) Directions: Use a small microwaveable container to melt the coconut and avocado oil. Add the vitamin E oil and stir to combine. Add white beeswax and cera bellinawax and heat in microwave for 30 seconds at a time until the waxes have completely melted. Be careful when removing the container from the microwave because contents may be scalding hot. Add your essential oil flavor and stir. Add shimmery color with the mica of your choosing and stir to combine until there are no clumps. You can add more mica if you wish a more saturated color. Pour the mixture into the push tubes once the mixture has cooled to about 130 degrees F. Allow to fully cool and harden. Pop in freezer or fridge for an extra cooling effect.

Sugar Lip Scrub

What you need: About 5 clear lip balm pots 1 TBSP coconut oil 1/3 TBSP cocoa butter 1/4 TBSP rosehip seed oil or vitamin E oil 1/4 tsp orange essential oil flavor (or a flavor of your choosing) 1/8 tsp rose gold mica (or any shimmery mica you choose) 1 1/2 TBSP granulated sugar

Directions: Add coconut oil, cocoa butter and rosehip seed oil in a small, microwaveable bowl. Heat for 30 seconds at a time until cocoa butter is melted completely. Take care when removing from microwave as container and oils will be hot. Add your essential oil flavor into the bowl and stir well. Next add your colorful mica and stir until all chunks of color are integrated. Add the sugar into the melted oils and stir until the sugar is fully incorporated. The texture will start to thicken. As the mixture cools down the sugar will start to suspend in the oils and achieve a “gloopy” texture. At this point you’ll want to transfer the scrub into the lip balm pots. Allow to fully cool before use. Apply sugar scrub to lips and exfoliate away! Wipe off or wash away any excess sugar scrub and apply your favorite lip balm! Article and Styling by MARÉ BRENNAN | Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

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Dry January Non-Alcoholic Cheers Worthy Beers

BY DELIA SIMPSON, BRAND MANAGER, CHOICE BRANDS, INC.

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RY JANUARY, THE PRACTICE OF ABSTAINING FROM alcohol consumption in the month of January, has risen in popularity over the last few years. For some, it’s a way to assess their relationship with alcohol. For others, it’s about shedding a few of those holiday pounds. And for many, it’s simply a cleanse or reset for the new year. Regardless of the reason, it doesn’t have to mean giving up the flavor of a crisp, refreshing beer. Heineken 0.0 Heineken had to ask, “Is brewing a great tasting alcohol-free beverage even possible?” The answer was a resounding yes. Their master brewers started from zero and spent years exploring, brewing, and tasting before they finally created a recipe defined by its refreshing fruity notes and soft malty body. Heineken 0.0 is not only delicious, but it’s fully deserving of the Heineken mark. Heineken 0.0 is the official brew of endless possibilities. Whether at the gym, in the office or relaxing at home, being alcohol free means it can be enjoyed whenever and wherever refreshment calls. At only 69 calories, Heineken 0.0 is truly a Heineken without limits. Lagunitas IPNA The Lagunitas Brewing Company began on a kitchen stove in Northern California in 1993 and has been crafting hop-forward beers ever since. Since then, they’ve been welcoming the open minded with open taps and simple truths: beer speaks (for itself), life Is uncertain (don’t sip), and it’s good to have friends. That open minded spirit has brought us IPNA, a piney, dank bolt of Citra, Mosaic, & Columbus hops, nestled by smooth and caramel notes of English crystal malt and Canadian 2-row barley. It’s the samse ingredients they use to make their flagship IPA. The only difference is that they pull this one before all the flavors get too mature to create a distinctly clean and satisfyingly flavorforward Non-Alcoholic IPA. IPNA clocks in at just less than .5% alcohol. Guinness 0.0 Not drinking? There’s a Guinness for that! Guinness 0.0 boasts the same beautifully smooth taste, perfectly balanced flavor, and unique dark color of Guinness, just without the alcohol. To create Guinness 0.0 the St James’s Gate brewers, start by brewing Guinness exactly as they always have, using the same natural ingredients; water, barley, hops, and yeast; before gently removing the alcohol through a cold filtration method. The brewers then carefully blend and balance the flavors to ensure the distinctive flavor profile and taste characteristics of Guinness.

The resulting product is a stout that is unmistakably Guinness, just without the alcohol, featuring the same dark, ruby red liquid and creamy head, hints of chocolate and coffee, smoothly balanced with bitter, sweet and roasted notes. Blue Moon NA Born from a love for baseball, Blue Moon was first created at the Sandlot Brewery in Denver, CO in 1995, with the goal of brewing wellcrafted beers inspired by Belgian styles with a refreshing twist. Among the many beers brewed out of Sandlot Brewery, one fan favorite emerged, and in true baseball fashion was named “Bellyslide Wit.” It wasn’t until someone said, “A beer this good only comes around once in a blue moon” that Blue Moon Belgian White Belgian-Style Wheat Ale was born. Its new non-alcoholic doppleganger, Blue Moon NA, is a balanced and refreshing non-alcoholic Belgian-style wheat brew, crafted with Valencia orange peel and coriander. Peroni 0.0 Since 1846, Peroni has been producing beers made with quality ingredients such as 100% Italian malt and Nostrano Maize, carefully overseeing every phase of production to bring a unique product to tables all over the world. Peroni 0.0 is made with the same superior Italian ingredients as Peroni Nastro Azzurro to create the same uplifting taste, now with 0.0% alcohol. Athletic Run Wild IPA and Upside Dawn Golden Athletic Brewing got its start in Stratford, CT, where founders Bill Shufelt and John Walker first began test-brewing. They crafted over 100 batches on homebrew equipment to perfect their process and refine their flavors. Once satisfied, they built an entire brewery around it. Since then, they’ve moved just down the road to Milford, CT and built what is believed to be the world’s largest dedicated NA brewery. Run Wild is the ultimate sessionable IPA for craft beer lovers. Brewed with a blend of five Northwest hops, it has an approachable bitterness to balance the specialty malt body. Upside Dawn is a refreshing, clean, balanced, and light-bodied golden style. Subtle earthy and spicy notes are balanced with citrusy aromas. It is brewed with premium malts and American hops and crafted to remove gluten. Be sure to like Choice Brands on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to keep up with new product releases. Feel free to message us for information on where to find your favorite brands. Find us at facebook.com/thechoicebrands and instagram.com/choicebrands. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 57

B AYO U R E C I P E

Cozy Comfort In A Bowl

When winter winds have you chilled, nothing beats an easy and hearty soup for supper. This one pot wonder is packed with flavor and veggies. Add as much spice as you like! We found the perfect Berry and Thread Whitewash collection bowl and plate made by Juliska that’s available at The Muffin Tin and Trenton House. Styled by MARÉ BRENNAN Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

Butternut Squash and Green Chile Chicken Soup What you need: 1/2 TBSP olive oil 6 cloves of garlic, minced 1 large white onion, chopped 1 green bell pepper, diced 1/4 cup diced cilantro 1 (4 ounce) can of mild green chiles 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cubed 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground oregano 4 cups organic low sodium chicken broth 1 lb. boneless chicken breast 1 (15 ounce) can organic corn, drained (leave this out if you want a Paleo version) 1 small lime, juiced 1/2 tsp salt (add more to taste, if needed) Freshly ground pepper Directions: Add oil into a large pot or Dutch oven over medium high heat. When oil gets hot, add in garlic, onion, green pepper, and cilantro. Stir and let cook until onion becomes translucent. Immediately add in green chiles, squash, cumin and oregano. Sauté for a few minutes, allowing time for spices to cook a bit, then add chicken broth, chicken meat, corn, salt and pepper, and lime juice. Bring soup to a boil, then cover. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes to fully cook chicken. When chicken breasts are cooked, remove with a slotted spoon and place in a cutting board. Shred chicken with two forks then add chicken back to pot.

New Year, New Skin Start 2026 with a Treatment Plan That Lasts

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ANUARY IS A MONTH FULL OF HOPE, MOTIVATION and new beginnings. Many of us enter the year ready to improve our routines and reset our goals. This year, instead of focusing only on outer resolutions, consider investing in something that affects your confidence every single day — your skin. True skin health isn’t accomplished in a single appointment. It’s a journey. A long-term commitment. And just like fitness or nutrition, the results compound over time when you stay consistent. When you begin the year with a plan instead of a one-and-done treatment, you set yourself up for the kind of anti-aging results that last beyond the first few weeks of January. Skin renewal occurs in cycles, collagen builds slowly, and the best results reveal themselves over months, not days. When you begin in January, you give your skin 12 full months to transform, strengthen, and reverse visible signs of aging. Imagine where your skin could be by spring… summer… or next New Year’s Eve. This month, we’re inviting you to start strong with treatments and products designed to work together. Glowing skin isn’t created by one miracle product or quick procedure. It’s built with a plan. Anti-aging is a Commitment – Not Quick Fix The biggest misconception about skincare is that age reversal happens instantly. While some treatments offer beautiful immediate benefits, the long-term improvement comes from building collagen, protecting the skin barrier, stimulating renewal and staying consistent with quality ingredients at home. When you combine in-office treatments that work below the surface with medical-grade skincare used daily, you see your most powerful results. Sculptra: Collagen from the Inside Out To kick off the year, we’re highlighting one of the most effective long-term anti-aging treatments available - Sculptra. Unlike traditional fillers that simply add volume, Sculptra stimulates your body’s natural collagen production. Results develop gradually, softening lines, restoring volume and improving overall firmness for a subtle, natural rejuvenation. Best of all, results can last up to two years — making it one of the smartest skin investments you can make. When you start Sculptra now, you’re planting seeds that your skin will continue to benefit from long after the holiday sparkle fades.

January Special – Sculptra + ZO Skin Health To help you begin the year with a treatment plan that creates real change, we’re offering a January transformation bundle: Buy one vial of Sculptra, get the second half off, plus receive a complimentary ZO Skin Health travel set to start your skincare regimen. Sculptra rebuilds collagen beneath the surface, while ZO protects, strengthens and renews the skin on the outside. Together, they create a foundation for younger, healthier skin throughout the entire year. Your ZO travel set is the perfect starter system for daily use, giving you everything you need to begin a consistent routine. Small habits create big results, and this set jump-starts that process from day one. The greatest skin transformations happen when in-office and at-home care work together. This is your opportunity to begin both at the same time — without guessing where to start. Additional Offerings The Medical Spa is happy to offer additional services including: • Aesthetic Injections • Chemical Peels • Glo2Facial • IV Hydration • Laser Hair Removal • Microneedling • Radiofrequency Treatments • Vitamin Injections Visit The Medical Spa this month to take advantage of our specials, events and learn more about our medical-grade skincare products. We are in the James R. Wolff Building (also known as the P&S building) in downtown Monroe. Our address is 312 Grammont St., Suite 406, across from the FMOL Health | St. Francis Medical Center. This location offers complimentary valet parking and convenient curbside pickup for your product purchases. Also, be sure to follow the Medical Spa by FMOL Health | St. Francis Medical Group on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on our weekly specials, sales, promotions and giveaways.

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Kilpatrick Funeral Homes With You From Beginning to End

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URING SOME OF LIFE’S MOST DIFFICULT MOMENTS, the support we receive can make all the difference. When a loved one passes, families deserve more than a service provider, they deserve a compassionate licensed and educated guide who walks beside them from the first phone call to the final farewell. Selecting the right funeral home is not simply about arrangements; it is about trust, connection, and care that surrounds you like family. For many in our community, that trust has been found at Kilpatrick Funeral Homes. Family owned, deeply rooted, and committed to honoring every life with dignity, respect, and heartfelt understanding. A Legacy of Service that Spans Generations In a world where so much changes, there is comfort in knowing that some traditions of care remain constant. Generation after generation has come to rely on our steady presence knowing that behind every service is a team that treats your loved one as if they were their own. Being family owned means we do not measure success in numbers, but in moments of connection, gratitude, and understanding. Every family we meet becomes part of our story. We know that no two lives are alike, and no two goodbyes should be either. A Team of Experience, Skill, and Heart Our team is more than one group of professionals. They are caregivers, listeners, and steady hands during life’s most emotional moments. With years of experience and genuine desire to serve, they approach every detail with respect and thoughtful attention. For your first conversation with us, you will be supported by the same compassionate team from beginning to end. They will: • Listen to your wishes, needs and financial concerns • Offer compassion during difficult decisions • Provide guidance rooted in experience • Ensure every detail is overseen with skill and care • Honor your loved one in a way that feels personal, meaningful, and true Supporting The Community That Supports Us We believe in giving back, uplifting others, and being present in ways that extend far beyond our walls. Whether through local partnerships, community events, educational outreach, or simply being there for people in moments of need, our commitment is genuine. We are part of this community, and this community is part of us. Choose Kilpatrick Choosing a funeral home is one of the most important decisions a family will make. When you choose a funeral home that stays with you from beginning to end, one that listens, understands, and gently guides; you choose peace of mind during life’s most tender moments. Our doors and hearts remain open to every family we are privileged to serve. With compassion, confidence, and care that has endured through the years, we are here to honor your loved one with the dignity and love they deserve. Your family’s story matters to us from the first moment you reach out, until the final tribute is complete and long after.

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Blooming into the New Year With Flower General by Carlstedt’s

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S WE USHER IN THE NEW YEAR, WHAT BETTER way to embrace a fresh start than by adorning your living space with the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas of freshly arranged flowers? Not only do flowers enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, but they also bring a myriad of physical and psychological benefits. If you’re looking to transform your space and kickstart the year with positivity, look no further than the timeless practice of arranging flowers and bringing the outdoors inside. Arranging flowers is more than just a decorative endeavor; it’s a therapeutic art form that can elevate your mood and create a welcoming atmosphere. As we navigate through the uncertainties of a new year, the calming effect of flowers can be a much-needed balm for the soul. Studies have shown that exposure to flowers can reduce stress and anxiety, contributing to an overall sense of well-being. Furthermore, the act of arranging flowers itself can be a meditative and mindful practice. Taking the time to carefully select, cut, and arrange each stem encourages mindfulness, allowing you to be present in the moment and appreciate the beauty of nature. It’s a simple yet powerful way to cultivate mindfulness in your daily life, promoting mental clarity and relaxation. Carlstedt’s provides a wide array of tools and florals to make your flower arranging experience seamless and enjoyable. From vases to floral foam, their selection ensures that you have everything you need to create stunning arrangements that reflect your personal style. The Monroe branch, established in 1973, has been an integral part of the company’s expansion, making their offerings accessible to a broader audience. One of the most exciting aspects of incorporating fresh flowers into your home decor is the ever-changing variety available. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of roses, the cheerful vibrancy of sunflowers, or the delicate beauty of lilies, Carlstedt’s offers a diverse range of florals to suit every taste and occasion. With flowers sourced from around the world, you can create arrangements that resonate with the spirit of the season. As we embark on a new year, it’s essential to keep in mind that Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. What better way to express love and appreciation than with a thoughtful arrangement of fresh flowers? Whether you’re surprising a significant other or treating yourself, Carlstedt’s ensures that your Valentine’s Day is filled with the timeless beauty of flowers. The benefits of arranging flowers and having fresh cut flowers in your home extend beyond mere aesthetics. With the therapeutic and mood-enhancing qualities of flowers, coupled with the convenience of finding all your floral needs at Carlstedt’s, there’s no reason not to embrace the beauty of blooms in the New Year. So, let your creativity blossom, and may the fragrance of fresh flowers usher in a year filled with positivity and joy.

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Get Ready to Dance

“Dancing With the Louisiana Stars” Returns February 27, 2026

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ARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR Friday, February 27, 2026, when the Louisiana Delta Ballet (LDB) brings back its beloved annual fundraiser, Dancing With the Louisiana Stars, at the Monroe Civic Center Arena (401 Lea Joyner Expressway, Monroe, LA). The evening begins with cocktails at 6:00 p.m., followed by a 7:00 p.m. show filled with entertainment, community spirit, and support for the arts. Now in its 17th year, the event has become a signature celebration for Monroe and the surrounding region — part dance competition, part gala, and entirely dedicated to helping LDB fund its year-round dance and arts programming. Local celebrities are paired with LDB’s professional dancers to perform choreographed routines in a friendly competition inspired by the hit TV show. Guests can enjoy buffet-style food from

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top Monroe caterers, cocktails from generous sponsors, and table seating for groups of eight on the arena floor, giving attendees an up-close view of the performances. General admission seating is also available for those who want to join the fun without purchasing a full table. A highlight of the night is the People’s Choice Award, where audience members vote for their favorite dancers. Every vote supports LDB, and participants are entered to win a piece of jewelry valued at $1,500, donated by Stephanie’s Jewelry. Fans traditionally bring signs, banners, and plenty of enthusiasm to cheer on their favorite teams. For the local celebrities taking the stage, the event is a chance to step out of their usual roles and embrace the world of art and performance. As one past contestant said, “This event isn’t just about the ballet — it’s

about supporting the entire community.” With performances ranging from elegant waltzes to high-energy salsa, the show always offers a mix of glamour, heart, and surprise. By attending, patrons do more than enjoy a memorable night — they help ensure LDB can continue offering dance, theater, and arts programs for children, teens, adults, and seniors. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, LDB guarantees that all donations are fully taxdeductible. Whether you reserve a full table, grab general admission tickets, or simply want an evening of excitement and community, Dancing With the Louisiana Stars on February 27, 2026, promises a night you won’t forget. Join the fun, support local arts, and help keep dance thriving in Northeast Louisiana.

Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC®

Reset, Renew, and Refine!

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APPY NEW YEAR FROM WATHA’S Wonderful World, LLC®, and The Next Level Cotillion! As we step into a fresh year, we are delighted to offer the gift of etiquette to you, your friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, and business connections. This season brings a unique opportunity to pursue an elevated lifestyle, and we are committed to supporting your journey toward greater refinement. The Importance of Etiquette When making recommendations, I always begin by referring to the basic definition of etiquette. According to the Oxford Dictionary, etiquette is “the customary code of polite behavior in society among members of a particular group or profession.” This foundational principle guides our approach and inspires us to help you cultivate confidence, grace, and respect in all interactions. Executing proper etiquette places others at ease and creates a harmonious environment. Focusing

on improved health, domestic engineering, and economic management will anchor your approach to refinement this year. Prioritizing Self-Care for Lasting Refinement 1 Timothy 5:8 KJV states: But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel. Understanding that you need to take care of yourself before helping others should encourage you to focus on selfcare. Begin by taking a personal health care assessment and scheduling medical and dental exams. Maintaining proper mental health enables you to extend grace, respect, and courtesy to others, which in turn allows others to view you as a beacon of hope, love, respect, and humility. Domestic Engineering for a Healthy Home It is important to establish a home environment overflowing with organization, peace, and love. Slipshod surroundings create stress and chaos. The new year is a wonderful

time to declutter your home by filing or shredding paperwork and responding to emails and invoices. Donating gently used household and personal items enables you to declutter with class. Financial Management Approaching your financial obligations from a “wants versus needs” perspective is a respectful and classy way to demonstrate good etiquette. There are online resources and banking apps available to help you balance debt and improve your FICO® score. The Debt Snowball method is a fantastic way to reduce your financial obligations. Suggested Readings Crust Your Goals by Dr. Alberta Brown Green and Eat That FROG! By Brian Tracy Upcoming Events Registration is ongoing now through February 16, 2026, for The Next Level Spring 2026 Cotillion-Beautillion. The application fee is $25.00 per student, and the course investment is $375.00. For more details, please follow Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC®, or The NEXT LEVEL on Facebook for press release details. Saturday, February 6, 2026, at 6:00 pm, Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC will present our second annual “Creative Cuisine”. The event channels African American history through a culinary lens. Attendees will receive educational training and a delicious meal. The cost is $25.00 per person.

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PAT RIC IA

TAT E

JON ES

Patricia Tait Jones reflects on her journey to claiming her identity as an artist, shaped by mentorship, persistence, and a deep belief in the power of community to sustain both creative practice and the places we call home. Article by April C. Doughty Photography by Kelly Moore Clark

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atricia Tait Jones came to art later in life. She was inspired by the path her daughter Maggie had taken in college and emboldened by the encouragement of a supportive friend who pursued creative study alongside her. What began as a self-directed return to the classroom has now grown into a deeply rooted artistic practice sustained by her involvement in a local artist co-op. For Jones, community is both a catalyst and a companion. She sees clearly how the people around her shape her as an artist and how the arts, in turn, enrich and strengthen the places we call home. Far from viewing the art world as a competitive arena, she embraces it as a landscape of boundless possibility, where growth, exchange, and shared inspiration flourish. Her decision to pursue art later in life wasn’t entirely unfounded. Although she spent most of her adult years as a special education teacher, Jones had established a foothold in creative work. While her daughter Maggie was studying art at Louisiana Tech University, Jones worked as an accessory designer for the Canadian company Olsen and later in the Dallas apparel market alongside Gavin Smith and other showroom purveyors. “I enjoyed it,” she said, “but it was a lot of pressure.” Still, the experience planted something meaningful in her. “So that’s kind of where I sprang from,” she said. And as she watched Maggie move through the Tech art curriculum with talent and conviction, Jones felt a pull of her own to explore that world. Speaking of Maggie, Jones said, “She’s like my spirit guide, and to this day, she is such an inspiration to me.” Watching Maggie’s growth as an artist revealed aspects of art education that genuinely surprised Jones. “I was really fascinated by the way she learned to have

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problem solving skills,” she said, which is something Jones hadn’t previously associated with studio work. Jones also found herself drawn to the introspective process Maggie developed and the way each piece evolved through critique, revision, and collaboration. Jones admired the constant cycle of making, receiving guidance, and reimagining. She began to see art making as a process energized by teamwork and feedback that she said “you may not even know you need.” Seeing her daughter grow through the continual challenges and supported reinvention fostered by her professors left a deep impression on Jones. “I watched her,” she said, “and when she graduated, I decided I wanted to go back to school.” Jones said that during the time she and Maggie were studying art, Susanna, her eldest child, observed their art journey and proved to be the strongest and most positive partner they could have. When Jones made the decision to return to school, she also invited along her close friend and fellow artist Annie Richardson, who already held an art degree from the University of Colorado. Enrolling with Annie added another layer to an already strong support system. The two women shared a sense of purpose as they endeavored to grow as artists. They were also eager to study under a faculty they deeply admired, including Peter Jones, Charlie Meads, and Ed Pinkston, all of whom were approaching retirement. For Jones and Richardson, the chance to learn from these mentors felt urgent. It was an opportunity they didn’t want to miss. Entering the program as nontraditional students shaped their learning journey in memorable ways. “We had that whole experience of being the older students,” Jones said, “and sometimes that was fun, and sometimes it was hard, depending on how people felt about you.” But in the end, the experience was definitely worthwhile.

OF ALL HER EXPERIENCES AT LOUISIANA TECH, the one that stayed with Jones most powerfully came from Ed Pinkston’s classes. Pinkston required his students to make a sketchbook entry every day. The entries could be written, drawn, or pieced together from scraps, but he expected them to be done. Jones had never kept a daily creative journal before, and the discipline reshaped the way she thought about her own creative process. Looking back on those years of sketchbooks, she said, “If the house caught fire, that’s what I would take with me first.” She learned the reflective power of journaling, and it became a cornerstone of her growth. Because she wasn’t pursuing a degree, she had the freedom to choose whatever courses she felt would nurture her development, and she kept taking classes until she felt her confidence as an artist come into focus. Eventually, she reached a place where she said, “I felt like maybe I was ready to go off on my own.” After substantial instruction, navigating the creative world independently was its own challenge, but one she was finally ready to meet. Still, she said the transition was both exciting and difficult. Leaving the structure of school behind meant stepping into a kind of freedom that was both exhilarating and disorienting. Jones had spent years in an environment where assignments, critiques, and deadlines provided a natural rhythm to her work. Without that framework, she quickly realized how solitary the life of an artist could feel. As she put it, “I think that being an artist can be a very lonely job.” The quiet of the studio, once a place of exploration, could edge toward isolation without the constant exchange of ideas she had grown accustomed to. She knew she needed conversation, critique, and companionship to keep her practice moving. “You really, really need to get out of the studio,” she said, and she learned that doing so wasn’t a luxury. It was essential. Critique, especially, became the anchor she missed most. Jones described it as necessary but uncomfortable. “It’s almost like making yourself go to the doctor,” she said. It can be painful but transformative when surrounded by people who understand your history as an artist and can see the trajectory of your growth. Having a trusted group who can tell you the hard truths, respond to your intentions, and help you push your work forward is “priceless,” she said. That’s why she encourages younger artists to seek out connection the moment they leave school. She tells them to go to openings, meet other artists, and build bonds intentionally. In her view, finding, or sometimes creating, your circle is the key to navigating the difficult shift into self-directed work. Jones considers herself fortunate to have had artist groups to lean on throughout her career. She spent years gathering with creatives like Kit Gilbert and Annie Richardson, as well as others from the Ruston and Louisiana Tech community whose influence has lingered even after they were gone. These groups offered conversation, accountability, and inspiration, which are all things she believes sustain an artist long after the structure of school falls away. “And so the best thing about being in that kind of group is the camaraderie,” she said, “which is just invaluable.” The Ruston arts community has always felt “really special,” she said, and being part of it helped her hold onto the best parts of collaboration while forging an independent path. As Jones settled into life as a self-directed artist, she sought out new ways to challenge and expand her practice. Travel became one of her most meaningful teachers. She painted landscapes en plein air, often selling those works to help fund the next trip, and she spent 66 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

“RANDOMNESS AND SURPRISE, I THINK, ARE A LOT OF WHAT INSPIRES ME,” SHE SAID, ADDING THAT EVEN SOMETHING AS INSIGNIFICANT AS “A LITTLE GUM WRAPPER ON THE SIDEWALK” CAN SPARK AN IDEA IF YOU’RE PAYING ATTENTION.

a transformative month at the Vermont Studio School immersed in a community of makers. Over time, she felt drawn to introduce more structure, geometry, and abstraction into her work, which led her to search for artists who were doing what she hoped to learn. “I thought, ‘Okay, I’m out of school. Every now and then, I’m going to find somebody that I really like the work they’re doing, and work with them for a while.’ So that was kind of my transition,” she said. That intention led her to seek guidance from collage artist Ken Kewley and from Stuart Shils, who teaches at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Both of these artists were known for transforming landscapes into abstracted visual language, and their influence nudged Jones toward collage and gave her new tools to pursue the evolving direction of her work. For the past eight years, Jones has found steady support and creative kinship through her membership in an artist co-op called Fringe: An Art Experience. The group of twelve members includes a mix of painters, photographers, ceramicists, and other makers, and it provides the community she relies on to keep evolving as an artist. Fringe also gave Jones a platform to share her most recent exhibition this past September, a deeply personal body of work titled Mrs. Jones. She chose the exhibition’s title, she said, “because it was really personal, and it was about me, and it was about a transitional period in my life.” Much of the work began during an artist residency with the Ross Lynn Foundation in the midst of the COVID pandemic, when solitude and reflection shaped the direction of her art. In these pieces, Jones uses small collages as preliminary design experiments that serve as springboards for the larger paintings that grow from them. Although the practice of using collages for inspiration is widely used, Jones credits Ed Pinkston with introducing her to this way of working. “So that’s kind of where I am now,” she said, “and I’m still kind of mining the gold.” In her development as an artist, Jones has also come to understand that inspiration often works quietly, revealing its influence only in hindsight. For example, she recently recognized how deeply her mother’s stained-glass practice imprinted itself on her own visual language. “My mother was a stained glass artist,” she said, noting how its vocabulary of shape, light, color, and translucency echoes through her current collage work. “I just realized that not long ago,” she said, “that color and light and shape was there for me from the beginning.” What she once assumed were simply her own artistic inclinations now feel like a continuation of something she grew up watching, an inheritance of form and luminosity that was there long before she knew she would become an artist. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 67

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er ideas about inspiration have shifted over the years as well. She no longer believes that artists must wait for a spark before beginning. Instead, she’s learned that “the inspiration comes after you start working. You can’t turn it on and off like a switch.” Much of what moves her arrives through small surprises—colors, textures, and moments most people overlook. “Randomness and surprise, I think, are a lot of what inspires me,” she said, adding that even something as insignificant as “a little gum wrapper on the sidewalk” can spark an idea if you’re paying attention. She often thinks of Annie Dillard’s writing and the way a single moment in nature caught with the right mindset at the right time can create a sudden feeling of awe or even a sense of the divine. For Jones, inspiration lives in those flashes of noticing, the ones that open a door just wide enough for the work to walk through. Over time, the accumulation of practice, study, and community gave Jones the confidence to finally claim the word artist for herself. She admits that it didn’t come easily but said, “If you work hard enough, you get to the point where you’re brave enough that if somebody asks you what you do, you can say, ‘I’m an artist.’” For a long time, she couldn’t bring herself to say it out loud, unsure whether she had earned it. Professional recognition helped. Having work in galleries in New Orleans and creating pieces during residencies in Vermont and Philadelphia affirmed that her practice had reached a new level, but the real shift was internal. It was less about talent or external validation and more about identity. “To me, it was actually more about whether I deserved to call myself an artist, to say that this is who 68 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

I am.” Ultimately, she realized that being an artist meant both dedicating the hours to the work and choosing to stand alongside the community of people who make art their lives. Jones is the first to say that making art isn’t a consistently graceful or inspired process. Some days the work moves as if guided by its own momentum. She said, “It’s a lot of fun when it comes easy and just falls off the brush,” but more often it doesn’t. Some pieces take months, sometimes getting painted over and reimagined so many times they become almost unrecognizable. She compares the attachment to these long-labored works to motherhood, admitting it can be “pretty hard to be objective about them when you’ve spent so much time with them.” Yet even in the struggle, there are moments when a painting surprises her, when she steps back and thinks, ‘Hey, that’s pretty cool.’ Those moments, when the energy builds and she feels physically swept into the process, are what she calls “a rush,” the kind of immersive, exhausting intensity that makes the hard days worth it. But she’s equally clear that the other side of artmaking, the less romantic side, must be endured. For every breakthrough, there are long stretches of routine and repetition, tasks that feel more like chores than creativity. “It’s mostly drudgery,” she said, washing brushes, sweeping the studio floor, staring at paintings that aren’t ready to reveal their next step. Yet she believes this mundane persistence is the foundation of the entire practice. “It’s just showing up,” she said. That’s the real secret. It’s about being present in the studio day after day, even when inspiration is nowhere to be found, because showing up is what keeps the door open for inspiration to come in. Just as community and the world around us provide artists with inspiration, Jones believes deeply in what artists bring to a

community. Her perspective is rooted in abundance rather than competition. In her view, more artists, more exhibitions, and more creative organizations only enrich the entire ecosystem. “I think the more you have, the more energy you have and the more customers you’re going to have,” she said. “It just creates, it builds on itself because you can’t build in a vacuum.” She’s never been afraid of overlap or influence. She sees it as an essential part of how artists grow. Borrowing ideas is part of the creative lineage. She said, “It’s just how we build on each other,” but she also believes in honoring those influences and being mindful not to slip into imitation. Respecting the work of others while developing one’s own voice is, to her, a necessary act of both integrity and community care. And for Jones, the impact of art stretches far beyond the studio. She believes that original artwork has the power to transform the environments we live in. “Having original art in a space makes that space come alive,” she said, noting that nothing else has quite the same presence. Art elevates daily life, she said, and “puts you on another plane,” strengthening the places where people gather, learn, and grow. In the end, her journey from student to selfdirected artist and from isolation to community reflects the very relationships she champions: artists shaping their communities and communities shaping their artists. It’s a reciprocal exchange of energy, inspiration, and support, and Jones stands as a testament to what can happen when an artist not only finds their own voice but chooses to share it with the people around them.

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Crafting Exceptional Travel, One Journey at a Time

Alisa Travel Designs Turns Dream Journeys Into Meaningful Experiences

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HEN ALISA SPATAFORA founded Alisa Travel Designs in 2019, she wasn’t simply launching a business—she was bringing a lifelong passion to life. After years of planning trips for family and friends and finding joy in the research, the details and the discovery of new places, she began envisioning a boutique travel agency rooted in service, expertise and personal connection. That vision soon became a thriving, full-service travel design company known throughout the region for its warm approach and its ability to craft elegantly curated journeys across the globe. From the beginning, Alisa did her homework. She immersed herself in understanding the travel industry from the inside out, ultimately choosing to affiliate with a leading host agency in Dallas. This partnership immediately provided access to established supplier relationships, exclusive booking advantages and a strong support network—

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key elements that allowed her young agency to grow quickly and serve clients with excellence. Today, Alisa Travel Designs proudly stands as a member of both Travel Leaders, the largest network of travel professionals in North America, and ASTA, the leading global advocate for travel advisors. These affiliations give the team unparalleled access to education, tools and industry insights, which translate into elevated, customized travel experiences for its clients. What began as a one-woman venture has grown into a dynamic team of travel specialists—each bringing unique expertise, deep knowledge and passion to the craft of travel planning. Our team includes not only Alisa, but also global travel experts Liz Craft, Kerry Kilpatrick and Julia Marzula. At the heart of Alisa Travel Designs is a simple, guiding philosophy: Every journey begins with a dream, and no two dreams are alike. One of the most exciting offerings at Alisa

Travel Designs is its small-group trips – a way for travelers to experience the world with curated itineraries, expert guidance and the camaraderie of like-minded adventurers. These small groups are ideal for solo travelers, couples, friends or anyone who wants the ease of guided travel without the feel of a large tour. Some destinations include • Germany, Austria, Hungary and Slovakia (river cruise June 2026) • England and Norway (ocean cruise July 2026) • Croatia (land tour August 2026) • Italy, Switzerland and Netherlands (land and river cruise October 2026) • Rome to Barcelona (Mediterranean cruise November 2026) • France and Switzerland (Christmas Market cruise December 2026) Travelers interested in joining a 2026 group can reach out to be placed on the interest list.

Weight Loss Patient Grateful To Surgery Clinic Of NELA Patient Says His Life Is “So Much Different Now”

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EFORE NOVEMBER 2024, JOHNNY Hood treated his high blood pressure, cholesterol, chronic pain, sleep apnea, and pre-diabetes. Today, the 39-year-old no longer suffers from any of those medical conditions. In addition to losing his daily medication regimen, he has lost several inches around his waist: once wearing a 40inch pant, he now wears a 30-inch pant. On Nov. 20, 2024, Dr. Walter Sartor, of The Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana, performed the gastric sleeve procedure on Johnny. Johnny remembers the date well and said with a laugh, “Dr. Sartor commended me for being so committed to losing weight just a few days before Thanksgiving.” Johnny has struggled with excess weight since childhood and remembers the emotional toll of the constant teasing. “It was tough. I stuck up for myself, but I wasn’t a vindictive kid, and the bullying took its toll.” He knew he made the right decision

to have the surgery when his clothes began falling off, and he had to continue to buy new ones. When he realized he was increasing his life’s longevity, he knew what that would mean for his wife, a nurse practitioner, and their three young daughters. Johnny said, “My life is so much different now. With my children, I can play hide-andseek in places that just weren’t possible before losing weight. And I have so much more energy.” A lineman for Entergy, Johnny has noticed he is much more agile at work, especially when suspended in the air. “Everything in my life is easier after losing the weight,” Johnny said. “I feel so much more confident in my body. I don’t feel ashamed anymore. I feel like myself.” His eating habits have changed, too. Even when he is tempted to eat something unhealthy, he doesn’t. He also consumes significantly fewer caffeinated beverages.

He wants people to know how much he trusts Dr. Sartor’s skills and his sincere compassion for his patients. “I was nervous, and Dr. Sartor comforted me. I had a lot of questions, and he took his time answering each of them. He made me so confident in moving forward with my surgery.” Johnny said he is also grateful for Marci Parker, who was most recently named BayouLife Magazine’s “Top Registered Dietitian.” He said, “We expect medical providers to be professional and great at their jobs. Marci is both of those things, and yet, she’s so much more. She’s professional, and she’s personal, which allows her to develop a deep connection with her patients. She truly cares about our success, and you can tell this job is more than just her job—it’s her passion. She was the guiding light for my surgery.” The Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana houses surgeons Dr. Walter Sartor, Dr. Bart Liles, Dr. Patrick Smith, and Dr. Mohamed Bakeer.

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Junior League of Monroe

Serving the Community Throughout the Year

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HE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF MONROE is excited to invite the community to one of its most anticipated traditions— the 28th Annual Spring Market, returning to the Monroe Civic Center March 19th–21st. This three-day shopping extravaganza is more than just a market; it is the Junior League of Monroe’s largest annual fundraiser, bringing together hundreds of vendors and shoppers from across the midSouth region for a weekend full of style, fun, and community impact. Spring Market has become a beloved Monroe tradition, offering a unique shopping experience where guests can browse hundreds of vendors featuring boutique clothing, jewelry, home décor, gifts, gourmet food items, children’s products, and so much more. Whether you are shopping for spring refreshes, special gifts, or simply enjoying a weekend out with friends, Spring

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Market has something for everyone. All proceeds from Spring Market directly support the Junior League of Monroe’s mission of community advancement. Funds raised through the event help sustain and expand the League’s community projects and programs, making a lasting impact throughout Ouachita Parish and the surrounding area. By attending and shopping, guests are not only supporting small businesses but also investing in meaningful local initiatives. Each day of Spring Market offers its own unique experience. Festivities kick off on Thursday with the Preview Party from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., giving attendees early access to vendors in a fun, celebratory atmosphere. Friday features General Shopping from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by the alwayspopular Market-Rita Madness from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., blending shopping with an evening

of fun and plenty of Market-Ritas! The event wraps up on Saturday with the Spring Fling from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., your last day of shopping before the market concludes. More details for each event to come! Vendors are also a vital part of Spring Market’s success, and excitement is already building for the future. Spring Market 2026 vendor applications are now live, with an application deadline of January 31, 2026. Businesses interested in being part of this premier shopping event are encouraged to apply early as spots do fill up! The Junior League of Monroe invites the entire community to save the date, shop with purpose, and join in celebrating 28 years of Spring Market. For questions or additional information, please reach out to springmarket@jlmonroe.org. We can’t wait to welcome you to Spring Market and continue making a difference—together.

Starting the New Year With a Hearing Test

Advanced Audiology & Hearing Aids, LLC

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IFE’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS deserve to be heard and enjoyed. But if your hearing isn’t at its best, you could miss out on every heartfelt conversation, shared laugh and whispered “I love you.” That’s why you should include getting a hearing test in the new year. It’s the first step in an individual’s hearing health journey. Whether you have a big event, or need help in the day-today—taking care of your hearing is an essential part of a good New Year’s resolution. Here’s what you need to know about hearing testing. Should I Get a Hearing Test Early? Hearing loss doesn’t just happen overnight. It occurs gradually over time, often without obvious symptoms. Many people are unaware they have a hearing problem until it reaches an advanced stage. Unfortunately, untreated hearing loss of any degree has serious consequences for more than your ears—it can also impact your physical,

mental and emotional well-being. Studies have shown that it: • May increase your risk of cognitive decline and dementia • Increases feelings of depression, anger and anxiety • Increases your risk of falls • Reduces job performance • Reduces lifetime earnings The earlier you know about a hearing problem, the sooner you can treat it to help minimize the negative side effects listed above. How Much Does a Hearing Test Cost, and Will My Insurance Cover It? If you don’t have insurance, you can expect to pay up to $250 for a hearing test. Hearing tests are usually fully covered by many insurance companies and partially covered under Medicare. You should expect to provide a copay, however. Who Can Perform a Hearing Test? Only an audiologist has the advanced

education and training to properly test, diagnose and treat your hearing loss. Hearing specialists, who have a high school diploma and some hearing-related training, may also perform a hearing test. What Can I Expect at the Test? Your audiologist will give you a series of tests to measure: 1. How your ears respond to loud sounds 2. The quietest sound you can hear at different pitches 3. How well you hear speech 4. The movement capacity of your eardrum 5. The type of hearing loss you have Your results will determine what options your audiologist will recommend. If hearing aids are right for you, they’ll work with you to determine which models best meet your needs, fit them and provide ongoing support to help you adjust to a new way of hearing the world. Make sure your hearing is in top shape for you’re the new year! Call to schedule your test.

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B AYO U P L A N T

Botanical Taxidermy Staghorn Ferns Platycerium bifurcatum

The antler-like fronds of staghorn ferns make each specimen irresistible to plant collectors. What other plants look so at home on a wall, inside or out? While it might not be the easiest to care for, staghorn ferns are worth the effort. Plus, having a plant that can also serve as a piece of wall art indoors or out is unique and fun. Staghorn ferns are native to Asia and Oceania and are ephiphytic in nature, like an airplant, meaning they grown on other plants using aerial roots to attach to their host. If you buy a staghorn, it may be potted in soil. While they can continue to live that way, their roots do well when using a moss base. They thrive in sub-tropical conditions, with high humidity and indirect, dappled sunlight. Staghorns do really well on a porch in our warm, humid climate, but need to come inside when the weather is chilly. Staghorns have two different types of leaves which are shield and antler fronds. The shields are usually brown and cover the roots for protection. Don’t be tempted to remove these brown, crispy leaves as they are essential or protecting the rootball and soaking up nutrients. Antler fronds are green and reach out from the base of the plant. The antler fronds can grow massive over time in an outdoor location. Staghorns are non-toxic for people and pets, making them a safe choice if you have pets that can’t resist a nibble. Here are a few tips for Staghorn care: To mount your staghorn, you can start with small wooden cutting board. Add a picture hanger to the back of the board. Next cut a circle of burlap fabric about the size of the rootball, fold it in half, then secure the edges of the half circle to the cutting board to create a pocket for your staghorn’s rootball. Add moistened spaghnum moss around the rootball, then tuck the roots and moss within the burlap pocket. If mounting, make sure that the fertile fronds are oriented upward. Louisiana is perfect for staghorn growing! These ferns can handle our hot, muggy bayou environment. Once temps drop below 40, you’ll need to bring these babies inside. Just be sure to avoid drafty windows and blowing AC units. Daily misting is never a bad idea for your staghorn as they love humidity. The mountings can make them a little hard to water. Remove from the wall and place in a sink or shower. Soak the moss root ball for 10 minutes, then allow to drip dry before hanging again. You should water once a week in the summer and every 2-3 weeks in the winter. If the antler fronds turn brown at the base, you’ve overwatered. If the tips of the antler fronds turn brown you need to water more. ARTICLE BY MARÉ BRENNAN | PHOTOGRAPH BY KELLY MOORE CLARK | STAGHORN FERN AVAILABLE FROM JAMES MCCREADY

Story Cannabis

Local Care, Trusted Guidance, and a New Chapter

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TORY CANNABIS IS PROUDTO OPEN A new chapter in Northeast Louisiana, bringing trusted cannabis care to a community that deserves high-quality, compassionate service. With a name rooted in the idea that every patient has their own wellness journey, Story is here to help write that next chapter of hope, healing, and empowerment. Founded with a mission to provide safe and effective cannabis care, Story Cannabis brings decades of combined industry experience to Louisiana. The team has built a strong reputation in other markets for premium products and heartfelt service, and their expansion into this region marks an exciting milestone in their continued growth. For many new patients, navigating medical cannabis can feel overwhelming. That’s why Story Cannabis puts education at the heart of its approach. Staff members take time to understand each individual’s unique needs, answering questions in simple terms and offering personalized product recommendations. One-

on-one consultations, printed educational materials, and accessible resources are all part of the support system designed to help patients feel confident and informed. Ordering is made easy for Louisiana patients with a valid medical cannabis recommendation. Customers can visit the dispensary in person to receive personalized assistance or browse the full menu online at storycannabis.com. The website provides up-to-date product availability, detailed descriptions, and the ability to reserve items for quick and convenient in-store pickup. The Story Cannabis team sees their role as a trusted healthcare ally, working to provide consistent access to medical cannabis while actively supporting the community through educational events, partnerships, and patient advocacy efforts. Addressing the stigma around cannabis is also central to Story’s mission. Through compassionate conversations, evidence-based information, and the sharing of real patient success stories, they help challenge outdated perceptions and foster a

more informed, accepting view of cannabis as a legitimate tool for health and wellness. Looking ahead, Story is excited about the future of the cannabis industry, especially the increasing research into therapeutic uses and innovations in product formats. From precision dosing to advanced delivery methods and targeted formulations, the industry is evolving rapidly, offering more effective solutions to meet patients’ specific needs. Above all, Story Cannabis wants every customer to walk away with more than just a product. They want them to feel heard, supported, and empowered. The goal is to build lasting relationships with patients and serve as a consistent source of guidance throughout their health journey. The environment inside Story dispensaries reflects this patient-first philosophy. Designed to be calm, welcoming, and professional, each location offers a space where individuals can feel comfortable discussing their needs and exploring options. Friendly staff, clean interiors, and a supportive atmosphere make every visit a positive experience. With their arrival in Northeast Louisiana, Story Cannabis brings not just products, but a promise to care deeply, educate honestly, and support each patient every step of the way. If you’re interested in learning more about getting your medical cannabis recommendation visit GoodCannaNow.com or visit your local Story dispensary.

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H o w t o St ay o n Ta s k and Stop Wasting Time by ERIN SHARPLIN LOVE | erinlove@panachebyerin.com

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s a mom, wife, daughter, business owner, friend, PTO member, substitute teacher, and pet owner, just to name a few, I never can get everything done and in a way that makes me happy and whole. I know that I want to change and the only way I can do that is to really focus and implement the tools and tricks that I already have and know. It will take some adjustment, but I hope you will join me on this endeavor. 1. Turn your ringer off! The number one tip that I have already started to implement into my routine is to periodically silence my cell phone. For instance, during dinner with my family there is no cell phone use. When I am writing an article, such as during this moment, I turn the ringer of my cell phone off so there are no distractions. When are your most important times and how can you implement this tip? 2. Clean and organize your most used space(s). Whether it is your desk, your vehicle, and/or your kitchen, nothing wastes more time than having to search for an item that has disappeared into a cluttered pile. Make sure you take the time to clear and organize your spaces. You will immediately feel and see the difference it makes in your schedule. 76 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

3. Keep a notebook handy. While you are focused on one action there is bound to be something that pops in your head that you need to do or remember. Acknowledge the thought and get it out of your head by immediately writing it down in a notebook. Then you can refer back to the notebook when your current task has been completed. 4. Take a break. If possible, take a break between each task. This will keep you motivated and deter burnout. I like to take a quick walk or simply fix a cup of tea or coffee to enjoy for ten minutes. It’s all about focusing on the break, though! Everything you do should come with focus. Try not to think of anything else but the task at hand. I know this is hard, but it can be done. It just takes practice. For instance, if you are playing with your children, that should be the only thing you are focused on in that moment. Just set realistic timers for moving on to the next task. 5. Delegate! I will admit that this one is hard for me. I feel like I need to be the one to do it if I want it to be done right. (Yes! I am one of those people.) However, a lot of tasks are menial and can and should be delegated to make the best use of your time. Take note of which tasks you may can delegate. When I have been brave enough to do this, it frees up my mind and schedule.

6. Track your time. A good way to see where you time is actually going is to keep track of what you are doing hour to hour. It will help you to see where the bulk of your time is being wasted, so you can preempt it before it happens next time. I bet you will find that you spend too much time scrolling social media, for instance. 7. Batch similar tasks. In other words, run all of your errands while you are out and about instead of making multiple trips or pay all bills at a certain time each week. Not only will this save time it will also save brain cells! Haha! 8. Stop multitasking! Multitasking is one of the biggest time wasters there is. You can’t do two, or more, things at one time and do them well. Focus on one task at a time and then move on to the next task. This one is easier said than done, but I have to say it. 9. Prioritize. I suggest making a to-do list each morning and grouping items into three different categories – must, need, and want. Obviously, the must do tasks should be the first things you complete followed by the need and the want. I have started to make at least one of the wants happen. For instance, one of my wants on Sundays is to read and enjoy a cup, or two, of coffee. I usually make it the first thing I do instead of saving it for last! 10. Discover your “prime time.” Are you a morning person or do you seem to get more done in the evening? I used to be a night owl, but kids can quickly turn that around! Now, my prime time is early morning or early afternoon. Please hold me accountable to this list and I will try to do the same for you! If you’d like to get in touch with me please email me at erinlove@panachebyerin.com.

INTENTIONAL LIVING

The history of playing cards can be traced as far back as 9th century AD in China and spread from there along trade routes until reaching Europe in the 14th century. Each culture put their own spin on the look and style of the cards. Around 1480, the French created a 52-card deck, and by the 19th century, the Brits and American cardmakers optimized card design for comfort and durability. Now known as the Anglo-American 52-card deck, this is now the most popular playing card deck worldwide. Each deck contains 2 black suits (Clubs and Spades) and 2 red suits (Diamonds and Hearts). Each suit is made up of 3 face cards (King, Queen, and Jack) along with ten numerals or pip cards ranging from one (the Ace) to ten.

Playing Games

Get off the phone and get to shuffling! Whether alone or with a crowd, a deck of cards can bring hours of fun that don’t involve screentime. Games can be as simple as Go Fish! or Solitaire or as complex as Poker, Bridge, or Canasta. Go to www.bayoulifemag.com for links to tutorials for these games and more.

The Joker card originated with American players of the game Euchre. The German pronunciation of Euchre sounds kind of like the word “joker.” The name for the new extra cards soon led to the design of a jester or clown. Jokers are often used as “wild cards” in games such as Rummy or Canasta. Playing cards shown here were sourced from Material Things.

Article and Styling by MARÉ BRENNAN | Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

H E A LT H Y H A C K S

The Almost Empty Jar Dilemma

We’ve all been there. Open the fridge and you’ve got a row of jars with only the dregs, two olives with all the delicious juice, a sparse layer of salsa, the last bite of almond butter. You hate to throw it out, but what can you do with so little? Here are a few inspirations to get you started on your refrigerator clean out. PICKLED VEGETABLES: Use the leftover pickle brine as a marinade for pork or chicken. Use the olive “juice” jar to shake your martinis in for added flavor. Add 1 part oats and 1 part milk to your nut butter jar and stick in the fridge for nutritious overnight oats. Shown here, we’ve layered greek yogurt, walnuts, blueberries to our leftover almond butter to make a grab and go parfait. On the savory side you can add soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, and a bit of sugar to create a Thai inspired topping for noodles and salads. Article and Styling by MARÉ BRENNAN Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

MAYONNAISSE Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice, a dash of Tabasco, and salt and pepper to taste. Shake it up and drizzle on tacos or roasted veggies. For a quick and delicious creamy salad dressing, add 1 tsp of Dijon mustard, a pinch of salt, a pinch of sugar, freshly ground black pepper and 1 Tbsp of white wine vinegar to the mayo jar and shake thoroughly. SALSA: Upgrade your boneless, skinless chicken breasts by slow cooking them in your leftover salsa. For a spicy kick with a white fish filet like cod, sear fish on both sides in a skillet with 2 Tbsp of olive oil. Add minced garlic, leftover salsa and cumin along with 1 Tbsp of red wine vinegar to create a spicy sauce for fish. Simmer until fish is opaque.

Caples and Robinson Orthodontics

Eight Consecutive Years of Top Docs Recognition

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OR EIGHT CONSECUTIVE YEARS, Caples & Robinson Orthodontics has been honored with Top Docs recognition again. An achievement determined by peer votes from local physicians, dentists, and members of the medical community. Each year, BayouLife Magazine asks medical professionals across the region to recommend the providers they trust most in specific categories, offering readers a reliable guide to the top healthcare professionals in Northeast Louisiana. Caples & Robinson Orthodontics stands apart as the only practice in Northeast Louisiana with three board-certified orthodontists—Dr. Ricky Caples, Dr. Chris Robinson, and Dr. Cammie Laird—each bringing exceptional expertise, leadership, and a shared commitment to excellence in patient care. Dr. Ricky Caples has practiced orthodontics since 1993 and is a graduate of

the LSU School of Dentistry, where he also completed his orthodontic training. A boardcertified orthodontist, Dr. Caples serves on multiple LSU dental boards and is Chair of the Development Committee for the LSU School of Dentistry. He is an active member of numerous professional organizations and was honored with the Louisiana Dental Association’s Distinguished Service Award in 2022. In 2023, he was inducted into the International College of Dentistry. Dr. Chris Robinson, also a graduate of the LSU School of Dentistry with orthodontic specialty training from LSU, has been in private practice since 2001. A board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Robinson serves as the 2024 President of the Northeast Louisiana Dental Association. He is deeply involved in the community, volunteering through programs such as Give Kids a Smile Day and serving on the Cleft Palate Team of Northeast Louisiana.

Dr. Cammie Laird, a Monroe native, completed her dental education at LSU Health Sciences School of Dentistry in 2019 and her orthodontic residency and Master of Science degree in 2021. She became a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics in 2022 and is committed to utilizing the latest orthodontic technologies to provide efficient, comfortable, and exceptional patient outcomes. To experience the difference at Caples & Robinson Orthodontics, schedule a consultation today. The practice welcomes patients of all ages and is dedicated to providing expert care in a welcoming environment. For more information or to book an appointment, call 318.325.9655 and take the first step toward the smile you’ve always wanted.

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BayouLife Magazine’s

TOP DOCS 2026 We are proud to announce our 8th Annual Top Doctors issue. We do know this list is by no means an all-inclusive and encompassing list, and we do not recommend changing your medical provider because of this list. We are extremely lucky to have a large pool of medical professionals in Northeast Louisiana, and are thankful for all the amazing people that devote their talents to make our community healthy and happy. Top Docs 2026 were nominated by peers in the medical community.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Bal Raj Bhandari, MD Morehouse General Hospital 616 S. Washington St. | Bastrop 318.283.3990 | mghospital.com Bal Raj Bhandari, MD, is a highly respected Gastroenterology Specialist with more than 33 years of experience dedicated to the care of patients with digestive and liver disorders. He earned his medical degree from the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine in 1987 and went on to complete his residency at Our Lady of Mercy Medical Center, where he further developed his commitment to excellence in patient care. Board Certified in Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Dr. Bhandari remains at the forefront of his field and currently serves as the Principal Investigator for several ongoing clinical research trials. His involvement in research reflects his dedication to advancing treatment options and improving outcomes for patients. Guided by a personal “Passion of Excellence for Digestive and Liver Health,” Dr. Bhandari strives to combine innovation, expertise, and compassionate care in every aspect of his practice. Dr. Bhandari is deeply grateful for the support of his family, especially his wife of 30 years, Annemarie, and their children, Matthew and Jillian, who have been a constant source of encouragement throughout his career. He also expresses sincere appreciation for his colleagues and staff, saying, “Working alongside such talented colleagues and compassionate staff has been a great privilege. Thank you for all you do.”

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BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

DR. KYLE BRUYNINCKX Bruyninckx Medical Center 117 Ellington Drive | Rayville, LA 71269 318.728.0281 bruyninckxmedical.com

The success of Bruyninckx Medical Clinic is rooted not in a building, a logo, or even its long-standing reputation—it’s rooted in people. It’s the combined heartbeat of a team who shows up every day with a shared purpose: to care deeply, compassionately, and personally for every individual who walks through the clinic’s doors. Led by Dr. Kyle Bruyninckx, the clinic embodies a philosophy of medicine that feels both modern and refreshingly old-fashioned—warmth, familiarity, and genuine human connection are just as important as clinical expertise. Dr. Kyle Bruyninckx is the kind of hometown doctor a person always hopes will come back to their small town to practice medicine. Bruyninckx Medical Clinic was founded in Rayville in 2021, although he has been practicing medicine since 2012. His patients know him as a kind and compassionate doctor who seeks to treat the whole person and not just the symptom. He listens to his patients and takes a multi-faceted approach to healthcare, seeing the physical, the mental and the spiritual as part of the patient. Dr. Bruyninckx is board-certified in Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, and has the capacity to treat the whole family in a single setting with personalized and professional care and to partner with parents to prevent, detect and manage physical, behavioral and developmental issues that can impact ages newborn through adulthood. From the moment patients arrive, the front desk team—Bri, Desiree, and Tracey—sets the tone. Their smiles, calming presence, and ability to make patients feel seen immediately ease the worries that often come with a medical visit. They handle the flow of the day with grace, creating a welcoming environment that feels more like visiting family than checking in for an appointment. Just beyond the lobby, the clinic floor hums with purposeful energy. Vontricia, Kenadie, Jadah, Aaron, Kaitlyn, and Hollie provide the kind of attentive, compassionate care that makes a lasting impression. They listen closely, anticipate needs, advocate tirelessly, and treat each patient with dignity and respect. For many patients, these are the faces they remember most—steady, kind, and present in every moment. The clinic’s foot care team, Kelsey and Shavon, has become especially beloved among patients. Their gentle touch, coupled with the time they take to truly connect, transforms routine care into a meaningful experience. What they provide goes beyond medical service—it’s relationship-building, trust-building, and often the highlight of a patient’s visit. In diagnostic care, Jessica, the clinic’s X-ray supervisor, brings a rare blend of professionalism and personality. Whether she’s

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working with infants, teens, or elderly patients, she handles each case with confidence, patience, and her signature dry sense of humor—often turning a potentially uncomfortable moment into one filled with ease and laughter. Meanwhile, Paige and Michelle take on one of the toughest jobs with remarkable skill: drawing blood and running lab tests. Yet even in these sometimes-uncomfortable moments, they find ways to make patients laugh, relax, and feel cared for. Their ability to blend precision with compassion is a gift noticed by everyone they encounter. The clinic is also proud to have providers Bailey and Ariel, both of whom grew up in the area and continue to call this community home. Their local roots deepen their commitment to patient care. They don’t just see patients—they see neighbors, classmates, family friends. Their understanding of the community’s needs brings an invaluable perspective to the care they deliver every day. Behind the scenes, Rhonda, Brooke, and Kristie make everything run seamlessly. They coordinate home health services, secure medical equipment, manage referrals, and juggle countless details that ensure patients receive the support they need. While their work is rarely seen, its impact is felt in every smooth transition, every follow-up call, and every patient who leaves the clinic knowing they’re well taken care of. At its heart, Bruyninckx Medical Clinic is where medical excellence meets compassionate care—where skill and sincerity live side by side. Every team member shares the same mission: to offer high-quality, patient-centered healthcare in a loving, respectful manner, treating each person who walks through the doors the way they would want their own families treated. This is not just a clinic. It’s a community of caregivers, a place where patients feel known, a team that treats healing as both a science and a calling...and that is what makes Bruyninckx Medical Clinic truly special.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

TOP general practice/family doctor WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 83

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Cynthia “Cindy” Brantly, RDN, LDN

Affinity Health Group 920 Oliver Road | Monroe, LA 318.807.4900 batonrougeclinic.com/provider/cynthia-brantly-rdn

TOP Dietitian 84 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Cynthia “Cindy” Brantly, RDN, LDN, is a dedicated Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with more than three decades of experience serving patients across North Louisiana and Arkansas. A Ruston native, Cindy’s lifelong connection to her community and her faith-driven commitment to service are central to both her professional philosophy and personal life. Cindy earned a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from Louisiana Tech University, where she also completed a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science. In addition, she holds bachelor’s degrees in Biology, General Science Education, and Animal Science, all from Louisiana Tech University. This broad academic foundation allows her to approach nutrition with a deep understanding of science, education, and practical application. Her professional career includes 21 years as a rehabilitation and long-term acute care dietitian in Ruston, followed by eight years as an outpatient nutrition and diabetes education dietitian in Monroe. Throughout her career, Cindy has specialized in nutrition and diabetes education, providing personalized, evidence-based counseling to patients of all ages. Her areas of focus include diabetes and weight management, heart and kidney disease, gastrointestinal disorders, healthy pregnancy, cancer, liver disease, food allergies, and nutrition support. She is passionate about delivering compassionate care that complements medical treatment. Cindy’s calling to nutrition began while pursuing a master’s degree in science education, when a strong sense of purpose led her to transition into nutrition and food science. Her approach emphasizes individualized care, education, and sustainable lifestyle changes that support long-term health. Outside of work, Cindy has been married to her husband, Jeff, for more than 34 years and is the proud mother of Maria and Ethan, and “Gigi” to her grandchildren, Samuel and Sophia Grace. She is actively involved in Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston and enjoys swimming, walking, hiking, and creative pursuits such as embroidery, sewing, knitting, and crocheting. Through her handcrafted gifts and community involvement, Cindy continues to serve others, believing meaningful connection is at the heart of healing.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Meg Castleberry, PA-C, MPAS

Ochsner LSU Health Monroe Medical Center 4864 Jackson Street | Monroe, LA 71202 318-330-7600 ochsnerlsuhs.org Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Meaghan Castleberry, PA-C, also known as Meg, has always had a desire to care for others in her community. That passion grew as she moved to Ruston to complete her undergraduate studies and later to Shreveport, where she earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from LSU Health Shreveport. Meg is an NCCPA board-certified physician assistant with broad clinical experience in emergency medicine, hospital medicine, urgent care and general surgery clinics. She is known for her clinical versatility, strong diagnostic skills and patient-centered approach to care in both acute and outpatient settings. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Meg brings a deeply personal perspective to patient care as a wife and mother of two sons, Rhett and Liam. Her oldest son, Rhett, is a former micropreemie—an experience that has shaped her compassion, advocacy and understanding of family-centered care. Meg enjoys working in a clinic setting, where she is exposed to a wide range of medical conditions. She says she is impressed by the campus’s growth, particularly Ochsner Health’s support for advanced practice providers and the care delivered to patients. She is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Louisiana Academy of Physician Assistants. Outside of work, Meg enjoys baking, crafting, crocheting and spending time outdoors.

TOP Physician Assistant WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 85

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Sanjay Chaudhuri, MD

Affinity Health Group 920 Oliver Road | Monroe, LA 318.807.4900 batonrougeclinic.com/provider/sanjay-chaudhuri-md

TOP Psychiatrist 86 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Dr. Sanjay Chaudhuri, MD brings a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to psychiatry, shaped by a diverse educational background and a genuine passion for improving quality of life through meaningful care. Originally from Montreal, Canada, Dr. Chaudhuri’s path into medicine reflects both academic curiosity and a deep desire to help others live healthier, more fulfilling lives. Dr. Chaudhuri completed his undergraduate studies at McGill University, where his interest in physiology first sparked his fascination with how the human body and mind function together. This foundation led him to pursue a Master’s degree in Health Administration at Louisiana State University, equipping him with a strong understanding of both clinical care and the broader healthcare system. He went on to earn his medical degree from the American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine before completing his residency at Penn State, where he refined his clinical skills and solidified his commitment to psychiatry. Today, Dr. Chaudhuri specializes in adult outpatient psychiatry and serves patients through a comprehensive psychiatric practice that also includes an esketamine treatment center. He chose psychiatry because of his love for conversation and connection with patients, as well as his belief in the profound impact that proper psychiatric treatment can have. “When psychiatric illness is treated effectively, the improvement in a patient’s quality of life and overall functioning can be truly remarkable,” he notes. This philosophy guides his practice, where he prioritizes listening, individualized care, and evidence-based treatment to help patients achieve lasting mental wellness. Dr. Chaudhuri’s decision to enter the medical field was driven by more than academic interest—it was rooted in a desire to keep people healthy and support them through some of life’s most challenging moments. His holistic approach recognizes that mental health care is not one-size-fits-all, and he works closely with patients to find treatments that align with their needs and goals. Outside of medicine, Dr. Chaudhuri enjoys a well-rounded and active life. He is an avid football fan, enjoys working on his cars, and has a passion for wine tastings. He also loves traveling and spending time in the kitchen, exploring new recipes and cuisines. These interests help him stay grounded and balanced, allowing him to bring both empathy and perspective into his work with patients.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Anna Giannobile Dearman, MBA, MOT, LOTR, CST, CLC, IBCLC

Prosper Therapy and Feeding Solutions 1900 Auburn Ave Ste F/G | Monroe, LA 318-373-6324 | prospertherapyla.com

Anna Giannobile Dearman is a licensed and board certified occupational therapist and International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) dedicated to helping children and families thrive through compassionate, evidence-based care. A Monroe native and two-time graduate of the University of Louisiana Monroe, Anna holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and an MBA with concentration in Healthcare Administration. She later earned her Master of Occupational Therapy from LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, combining her passion for helping others with her drive for innovation and education. Anna founded Prosper Therapy and Feeding Solutions in 2023 to bridge the gap between feeding therapy, lactation support, and pediatric development in North Louisiana. Her clinic is the region’s only site led by an occupational therapist who also holds the IBCLC credential and partners directly with the Mother’s Milk Bank of Louisiana as North Louisiana’s first milk depot. Through Prosper, Anna and her team provide specialized feeding, sensory, and developmental therapy, empowering children and families with practical strategies for success. In addition to her clinical work, Anna serves as an instructor with Feed the Peds, educating occupational and speech-language therapists worldwide on the latest evidence-based feeding practices. She also collaborates with local schools and community programs to advocate for early intervention, inclusive education, and family-centered care. Anna resides in Monroe with her husband Adam and their three children, whose feeding struggles inspired her career path into feeding therapy. Anna believes that helping children learn to feed, grow, and flourish is a calling. Her mission is to create spaces where families feel supported, children make progress, and hope is always within reach.

TOP Occupational Therapist WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 87

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

DAVID D. FINLEY, DDS, FAACD, FAGD Bayou Dental Group 2501 Tower Drive | Monroe 318.855.2411 smile-creator.com

Dr. Finley was born into a family of educators. His mother was a second-grade teacher, and his father was a math professor. When Dr. Finley was in the fourth grade, the family moved to Monroe, where his father accepted a faculty position at Northeast Louisiana University (now the University of Louisiana Monroe). Dr. Finley’s desire to become a dentist was influenced by his uncle, who was a dentist in Missouri and enjoyed his work a lot. His uncle noticed that from a young age, Dr. Finley was particularly skilled with his hands. After attending University of Louisiana Monroe, where he played baseball as a freshman and received his Bachelor of Science degree, Dr. Finley decided to pursue a career in dentistry. He knew it would be fulfilling because dentistry would allow him to work with his hands, use his artistic abilities, and help people. He obtained his degree as a doctor of dental surgery from LSU New Orleans School of Dentistry. “I have always seen the science and art of dentistry as a neverending learning experience, and because of this I have always strived to learn as much as I can about my craft.” For the third year in a row, Dr. Finley has been named the top dentist

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in Northeast Lousiana. Dr. Finley loves people and the relationships that dentistry creates with patients. He has multiple generations of patients. He says: “I also love being able to give a patient a shot and have them tell me that they didn’t feel it. Or doing a root canal and hearing a patient ask, ‘Is that all there is to it?’ I love it when a patient says that they hate dentists but not me, or that the only reason they come to the dentist is me. I love helping children not be fearful of the dental visit. I love the true complexity of dentistry and solving the puzzle. And of course, I love cosmetics and helping patients smile. Creating smiles lets me use my artistic eye, my hands, my knowledge, and my heart to help a patient.”Dr. Finley and his wife, Valerie have six children—Adam, Megan, Ashton, Kaleb, Kristin and Coalton (Twins)—and four grandchildren, Natalie, Parker, Lakelyn, and Mary-Hollis. They also have three dogs. In his leisure time, Dr. Finley enjoys fishing, spending time with his six children and four grandkids, traveling, working in the yard, and completing his honey-do list. For 15 years, he coached boys’ youth leagues.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Louisiana Pain Care Dr. Vincent Forte 210 Layton Avenue | Monroe, LA 318.323.6405 | lapaincare.com

This year, Dr. Vincent Forte has been named the 2026 Top Doc for Pain Management—an honor that reflects not only his medical expertise but also his dedication to restoring quality of life for patients across the region. Dr. Forte’s leadership, compassion, and commitment stand at the heart of the practice’s continued success. Dr. Forte’s journey in medicine began at LSU in New Orleans, where he earned his medical degree before moving on to complete his anesthesiology residency at the University of Alabama Hospital in Birmingham. He then expanded his expertise with a fellowship in pain management at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Today, Dr. Forte is double board certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology and the American Board of Pain Medicine—credentials that underscore the depth of his training and his commitment to staying at the forefront of his field. Louisiana Pain Care has spent three decades evolving in size, services, and technology—but its mission has remained unchanged since its establishment in 1994: to bring the highest-quality, up-to-date interventional and clinical pain management solutions to patients in Northeast and North Central Louisiana and North Arkansas.

What began as a response to a growing medical need in the Arklamiss area is now home to the region’s only board-certified, fellowship-trained practicing pain management clinic. While many patients seek treatment for neck or back pain caused by bulging, herniated, or damaged discs—or from arthritis and muscular conditions—Dr. Forte’s scope of care extends even further. He is skilled in managing a wide range of complex pain issues, including fractured vertebrae, neuropathies, shingles pain and cancer related pain. Dr. Forte utilizes a variety of treatment modalities tailored to each patient’s needs. Alongside interventional procedures, he often incorporates oral or transdermal analgesics, physical therapy, and supervised home exercise programs to ensure comprehensive, results-driven care. As Louisiana Pain Care marked its 30th anniversary last year, the practice reflects on decades of growth that would not have been possible without the trust and support of area physicians and community partners. For years, local providers have relied on the clinic to care for patients suffering from both acute and chronic pain—allowing individuals across the region to access specialized, non-surgical pain relief close to home. Dr. Forte extends his deepest gratitude to the entire Louisiana Pain Care team. From the earliest employees who helped build the foundation of the practice, to those who have remained dedicated through countless milestones, to the newest team members carrying the mission forward— each one plays a vital role in the clinic’s success. As Louisiana Pain Care moves into its next decade of service, Dr. Forte remains committed to delivering compassionate, expert care to every patient who walks through the doors. Being honored as this year’s Top Doc for Pain Management is more than an award—it is a reflection of a lifetime spent helping others reclaim comfort, mobility, and hope.

TOP Pain Management WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 89

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Melanie Massey Groves Melanie Massey Physical Therapy

3177 Sterlington Rd. | Monroe | 318.388.1989 2309 South Service Road West | Ruston | 318.232.1969 1800 Buckner St., C249 | Shreveport | 318.934.1969 107 Summer Ln. | West Monroe | 318.396.1969 105 summer Ln. | West Monroe | 318.396.1969 www.mmptinc.com Melanie Massey Groves was born and raised in this community and still proudly calls it home today. She resides here with her husband, Todd Groves, and their two daughters, Ellie and Gabbi. Nearly thirty years ago, Melanie began her journey as an entrepreneur, treating patients throughout the surrounding parishes. Today, she is proud to stand behind the name Melanie Massey Physical Therapy as one of the longest-standing outpatient physical therapy clinics in North Louisiana. Early on, she concentrated on pediatrics and neurological rehabilitation, building a strong foundation in treating complex and life-impacting conditions. For the past 15 years, she has served almost

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exclusively the pelvic floor population, working with men, women, and children who experience pelvic floor disorders. This specialized expertise has positioned her as a trusted leader in comprehensive, highly skilled care. Outside of the clinic, Melanie values time spent with family and friends and is deeply committed to serving her community. She actively supports numerous local nonprofits. She has served on boards close to her heart, such as Families Helping Families and the West Monroe Chamber of Commerce, and was also a founding member of the Dixie Diehards. She is also currently serving on the board of Living Well Foundation and Med Camps. In addition to her work in physical therapy, Melanie is a certified leadership coach, speaker, and trainer with the John Maxwell Team. She strongly believes that when an organization understands the individual gifts of its team members and operates with unified core values, both leaders and teammates are empowered to thrive. Having witnessed firsthand the impact of strong culture, teamwork, and leadership, Melanie now helps other business owners and leaders cultivate the same success. With five established clinics located in Shreveport, Ruston, Monroe, and two in West Monroe, the practice is able to serve patients across the lifespan, from pediatrics to geriatrics, and address a broad spectrum of diagnoses. Melanie and her dedicated team approach every patient with unwavering hope for healing and full restoration. She extends her sincere gratitude to everyone who has entrusted Melanie Massey Physical Therapy with the care of themselves or their loved ones. As they welcome the New Year, Melanie and her staff remain committed to giving their very best and look forward to serving the community for many years to come.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Andi Holyfield Registered Dietitian Eat to Lose

3801 Chauvin Lane | Monroe LA 318.348.3120 eattoloseinc.com As the founder of Eat to Lose, Inc., Andi Holyfield, Registered Dietitian and Licensed Nutritionist, has established one of the region’s most trusted nutrition practices, helping people of all ages pursue healthy lifestyles through evidence-based guidance and a practical approach to food. Her philosophy is simple: food should be both enjoyable and transformative. She’s known for translating clinical nutrition into everyday swaps that drive progress without vilifying favorite foods. Working in partnership with physicians, Andi’s program supports sustainable weight loss, diabetes management, and improved lipid panels, changes that may help clients reduce reliance on medications. For clients using GLP1 medications, she provides strategies to protect muscle, maintain energy, and support long-term success. Andi’s drive to build something of her own started early. Raised in a family of entrepreneurs, she watched her grandfather, Jessie Gilstrap, grow Trenton Appliance in West Monroe, and later saw her parents expand the business with a new location. Their work ethic and their advice still define her work today: if you love what you do, success will follow. At 14, she put that belief into practice by launching a swim school she ran for 14 years. While studying at Louisiana Tech University, she moved from the pool to the gym to teach an aerobics class. When one class turned into three, she had to hire additional instructors to meet demand. These early ventures taught her how to build trust through coaching and create change through consistency. After graduation, Andi spent seven years as a clinical RD and LDN at St. Francis Hospital and P&S Surgical Hospital, laying the foundation for her later work. Opening Eat to Lose, Inc., she offered customized six-week plans paired with InBody assessments to measure body composition and track progress. Results and referrals helped the business flourish. Eat to Lose, Inc. provides comprehensive nutrition services tailored to a range of needs, including bariatric care, weight management, and disordered eating. She is the author of Eat to Lose and The Bariatric Guidebook. In recognition of her passionate and compassionate support of clients across life stages and health goals, Andi Holyfield was selected by BayouLife readers as the Top Nutritionist for 2026.

TOP Dietitian WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 91

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Janine Hopkins, MD, FAAD

Hopkins Dermatology 2509 Broadmoor Blvd, | Monroe LA 318.325.0600 hopkinsdermatology.com

TOP dermatologist 92 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Janine Hopkins, M.D., F.A.A.D. is a Board-Certified Dermatologist and experienced physician practicing in Monroe, LA since 1996. Dr. Hopkins opened her first private practice immediately after completing her specialty training. After four years of medical school at LSUMC, Shreveport and a one-year internal medicine internship at Ochsner Hospital, New Orleans, she received training in the field of dermatology through a progressive and competitive residency program with an emphasis on surgical and cosmetic dermatology at LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. After 25 years of solo practice, Dr. Hopkins decided to expand her clinic. In May 2021, she opened a second location in Southlake, TX offering the same advanced, unique treatments in her new location that she offers at her primary practice. One of these unique treatments includes Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT), a non-surgical cure for skin cancer that provides a 99.3% cure rate. Both Hopkins Dermatology practices have grown exponentially. They offer a wide range of treatments for children as well as adults. Dr. Hopkins often combines unique facial treatments with cutting-edge laser procedures and injectables to restore shape and symmetry to the face and continues to use the finest state of the art laser systems. In addition, they have expanded nonsurgical treatment options for aesthetics as well as skin cancer treatment. Dr. Hopkins thoroughly enjoys sharing her passion and knowledge with others. In the U.S. and internationally, she frequently serves as an expert presenter on advancing technology in both the field of dermatology and laser and facial aesthetics. On May 29-31, 2025 she was honored to be a presenter at the 17th 5-Continent Congress (5CC World Congress), in Lisbon, Portugal. Dr. Hopkins spoke on 3 topics: Non-surgical Cure of Non-melanoma Skin Cancer Using Advanced Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy, Non-surgical Blepharoplasty – Eyelid Rejuvenation with Topical Application of PlateletRich Plasma Followed by Microcannula Injections and Targeting Multiple Muscle Groups including the Pelvic Floor while Sitting on a Chair. Dr. Hopkins is thankful to have the long-term support of her husband, Ted Hopkins, to whom she will have been married for 38 years in May. Ted helps operate and manage her practices. She is also blessed with two wonderful children, countless friends and family, and an amazing staff that helps make Hopkins Dermatology a success. To schedule To schedule an appointment with Dr. Hopkins at her Monroe, LA location, call (318) 325-0600.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Rushton Jones, MD Alli Anesthesia 101 Catalpa | Monroe LA 318.998.7600 allimso.com As the father of five boys, Dr. Rushton Jones likes sports. “Despite growing up playing football and basketball, the operating room is the ultimate example of a team sport,” he says. He appreciates working together with anesthesia team members, surgical colleagues, nurses, and staff with one specific goal - the safety and comfort of each individual patient. Collaborating with and understanding team members and patients is simultaneously complex and rewarding. But managing busy days and challenging situations, together with the team, brings a sense of fulfillment. Currently serving as President of Alli Anesthesia, he is part of a talented team with nine doctors and 35 CRNAs. A given day may see him working with five to ten surgeons and seeing as many as thirty patients or more. One of his goals is to show the compassion necessary to make a hard day easier - for a patient, a surgeon, or a staff member. He sometimes likens his job to a football referee. “If you remember the ref, that’s probably a bad sign. If you remember your anesthesiologist, that might not be good either. I don’t need the recognition. I just want to help people find peace and healing.” Rushton and his wife, Diane, the love of his life, have been married for 23 years. Their five boys, Hunter, Porter, Dallin, Mason, and Adam range in age from 20 to 9. Rushton and Diane, a Neville graduate, met at BYU (Provo) in 2002. He then graduated from the Medical College of Wisconsin in 2008, followed by an anesthesiology residency at Albany Medical Center in New York where he served as chief resident. He graduated residency in 2012 and then worked for two years in Albany before moving to Monroe, LA in 2014. Navigating different challenges is a core component of anesthesia. Building a team is no different. In 2014 when Dr. Jones moved to Monroe, he was part of SMSO anesthesia which covered two sites with 3 doctors and 12 CRNAS. He now helps serve a team nearly triple that size and has seen his group merge and change. Despite the inherent difficulties in such changes, he strives to approach any situation with awareness of the challenges, while still working toward the best outcome. “This is how I approach my patient’s care, and this is how I hope to help our team navigate an ever-changing landscape,” he says. When outside of the operating room, Dr. Jones is often found coaching his boys in sports. He enjoys spending time with his wife, reading, and cooking. He and his family are joyful members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Monroe. He wishes to express appreciation to every member of the operating room teams for their skill, compassion, and dedication to each and every patient.

TOP anesthesiologist WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 93

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

W. Bart Liles, MD, FACS The Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana 312 Grammont Street, Suite 303 Monroe, LA 318.398.2984 surgeryclinicnela.com

TOP general surgeon 94 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Ask a hundred patients about Dr. Bart Liles, and one word continues to surface: “kind.” Kindness is just the beginning—his patients speak of a surgeon who uses humor to put them at ease and answers their questions to calm them. Dr. Liles understands that healing begins long before the first incision. Dr. Liles inherited his compassion and kindness from his mother, Melanie Liles, who worked in child protection services. Her work ethic and capacity for empathy profoundly impacted him. “My mother would enter a situation where someone was having their worst day, and she’d let them know they were not alone. She used to say that suffering wasn’t unique to anybody, even though some have it worse,” Dr. Liles said. “They are human, and they entered this world just as we did and will leave just as we will. It’s in the in-between that you have to alleviate the suffering somehow. She taught me the importance of that.” Today, Dr. Liles continues her legacy through his work at the Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana, home of Delta Vein Care, where he performs general surgery and vein procedures. “Truthfully, there’s nothing more rewarding than comforting families and patients during their times of need. When the chips are down, and they look to you for answers, it’s an amazing amount of responsibility,” he said. Dr. Liles, a fourth-generation Monroe physician, is proud of the clinic’s vein program. Alice, a vein patient, said, “Dr. Liles was very light-hearted, which really helped me. He was also empathetic, and he consistently reassured me.” Another patient, Buddy, who had melanoma, remembers how Dr. Liles made him feel. Buddy said, “When he removed the stitches, he knew which ones would hurt, and he would warn me. He was kind. We had a nice relationship; life is about relationships.” Dr. Liles deserves BayouLife’s Top Doc honor, said Dr. Walter Sartor. “Our clinic’s environment is one of camaraderie, laughter, loyalty, and friendship. Dr. Liles plays a significant role in creating that atmosphere. I have found it incredibly rewarding to mentor him and call him my friend.” The Surgery Clinic of NELA also houses surgeons Dr. Walter Sartor, Dr. Patrick Smith, and Dr. Mohamed Bakeer.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Anna Grace Livingston, DCNP, AGNP-C Hopkins Dermatology 2509 Broadmoor Blvd, | Monroe LA 318.325.0600 hopkinsdermatology.com Anna Grace Livingston is a Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner under the supervision of Dr. Janine Hopkins at Hopkins Dermatology, serving patients aged 13 and older. Anna Grace completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at the University of Louisiana Monroe. She began her career in Dermatology as a registered nurse at Hopkins Dermatology in 2016. Soon after, Anna Grace completed her degree as a Master of Science in Nursing with the concentration of Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner in 2019, as the Valedictorian of her class. Throughout her career, Anna Grace has solely focused on her specialty in Dermatology and is proficient in treating a multitude of dermatologic conditions. Her practice includes performing total body skin exams, locating and treating skin cancers and precancerous lesions, diagnosing and treating rashes, acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, hair loss and nail issues. Anna Grace is trained and skilled in performing all types of laser treatments within the practice, which include, laser tattoo removal, hair restoration treatments, a multitude of skin rejuvenation treatments, laser hair removal, and lasers for treating acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation. She has also trained and is skilled in cosmetic injection of neuromodulators and lip filler. Anna Grace also remains as an active provider with Skin Cure Oncology while assisting in overseeing Image Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT) treatments for basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers within Hopkins Dermatology. Anna Grace is nationally board certified and accredited through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Certification Board (DNPCB). Anna Grace is a member of the Dermatology Nurses Association along with the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and Louisiana Association of Nurse Practitioners. Anna Grace has been happily married for 10 years to her husband, Jon Michael Livingston. They have a fiveyear-old son, Jon Henry, and a three-year-old daughter, Lillian. Anytime Anna Grace is not working, she spends majority of her time with her growing family. She also enjoys reading, going to concerts, and shopping with friends. Anna Grace is dedicated to her growing practice, here in Monroe, and looks forward to many years ahead providing cutting edge care for her patients.

TOP NURSE PRACTITIONER WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 95

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Thomas Marsala, PA-C

Haik Humble Eye Center 1804 North 7th Street West Monroe, LA 1801 Auburn Avenue Monroe, LA 138 Christian Drive Rayville, LA 318-325-2610 haikhumble.com

For more than two decades, Thomas Marsala, PA-C, has embodied what it means to provide exceptional, patient-centered care in Northeast Louisiana. A proud graduate of St. Frederick High School and the 1999 Physician Assistant class at LSU Health Sciences Center in Shreveport, Marsala has devoted his career to helping patients feel seen, understood, and genuinely cared for. Thomas Marsala began his professional journey in internal medicine, where he spent five formative years honing his clinical skills and establishing his reputation as a calm, capable, and trusted provider. In 2004, he found his long-term professional home at Haik Humble Eye Center, where he has now spent over twenty years caring for patients with a level of attentiveness that has become his hallmark.

TOP Physician’s Assistant 96 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Known for his ability to connect with people, Thomas Marsala approaches every patient encounter with patience, clarity, and compassion. He takes the time to explain each step of the exam, ensuring that every individual — whether anxious, curious, or simply in need of reassurance — leaves feeling at ease and well-cared for. It’s a philosophy rooted in the early guidance of his mother, Theresa Marsala, whose influence played a significant role in his decision to enter healthcare. Her wisdom and example continue to anchor his approach to patient care today. Beyond his clinical expertise, Thomas Marsala’s greatest joy comes from his family. He and his wife, Kym, share three beautiful children — Thomas, Julia, and Charlie — who keep their household full of energy, activity, and purpose. When he’s not in the clinic, you’ll often find him cheering from the sidelines at his kids’ sporting events or enjoying the quiet and renewal of the great outdoors. Hunting, family time, and supporting his children are the moments that recharge him and remind him why he does what he does. Being named a 2025 BayouLife Top Docs honoree is a well-deserved recognition for a provider whose dedication has left an immeasurable impact on his patients and community. With deep roots in the area, a passion for helping others, and a family legacy of compassion guiding his work, Thomas Marsala, PA-C, continues to elevate the standard of care at Haik Humble Eye Center — one patient, one conversation, and one steady hand at a time.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Owen M. Meyers, MD

Affinity Health Group 920 Oliver Road | Monroe, LA 318.807.4900 batonrougeclinic.com/providers/owen-meyers-md Dr. Owen Meredith Toler Meyers is a trusted family medicine physician whose decades-long commitment to patient care has made a lasting impact on the Monroe community. A native of Laurel, Mississippi, Dr. Meyers developed an early love for science—an interest that, paired with inspiration from a hometown physician, would shape his future in medicine. As a young student, Dr. Meyers had the opportunity to shadow Dr. James Waites, a local physician whose dedication to patients left a strong impression. That firsthand exposure to compassionate, community-based care confirmed what would become a lifelong calling. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Mississippi College in Clinton, Mississippi, before completing his Doctorate of Medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. Dr. Meyers continued his medical training at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, where he completed both his internship and residency in Family Medicine. During this time, he distinguished himself as a leader among his peers, serving as Chief Resident— an experience that further refined his clinical skills and reinforced his dedication to comprehensive, patientcentered care. In 1987, Dr. Meyers relocated to Monroe, Louisiana, where he has practiced family medicine for nearly four decades. He began his career in private practice, building long-standing relationships with patients and families across generations. In 2014, he joined Affinity Health Group, continuing his mission of providing accessible, high-quality care. Alongside his outpatient practice, Dr. Meyers remained deeply involved in hospital medicine, caring for his patients at St. Francis Medical Center, North Monroe Hospital, and Monroe Surgical Hospital until 2020. Family medicine has always been a natural fit for Dr. Meyers. He values the variety the specialty offers and appreciates the opportunity to care for patients at every stage of life. From preventive care to chronic disease management, he enjoys the breadth of medicine and the meaningful connections it fosters. His approach is grounded in consistency, trust, and a genuine desire to support long-term health and well-being. Outside of the clinic, Dr. Meyers’ greatest joy is his family. He and his wife, Ginny, enjoy traveling to visit their children and grandchildren, cherishing time spent together. When at home, he finds relaxation in tending his garden or working in his greenhouse—simple pursuits that reflect his steady, thoughtful nature.

TOP general practice/family medicine WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 97

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

TIMOTHY J. MICKEL, MD F.A.C.S. Mickel Plastic Surgery 903 N. 2nd Street | Monroe, LA 318.388.2050 mickelplasticsurgery.com

Dr. Mickel is a board certified plastic surgeon. A third generation Monroyan, he was born at St. Francis Hospital, raised in the Garden District, and graduated from Neville High School. Dr Mickel attended Vanderbilt University, where he graduated cum laude with a B.A. in Psychology. He received his medical degree from LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and was a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. Dr Mickel completed a full five-year general surgery residency program at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, and earned board certification in general surgery in 1988. He went on to complete his plastic surgery training at Parkland/UT Southwestern Medical Center in 1990 and is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. As a plastic surgery resident, Dr. Mickel’s research on frontal sinus fractures won national acclaim, including the prestigious Snyder Award, given to the plastic surgery resident who presents the best paper at the annual meeting of the Plastic Surgery Research Council.

TOP PLASTIC SURGEON 98 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Dr. Mickel returned to his hometown in 1990 to begin a practice in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Over the decades, he has focused on cosmetic surgery, breast cancer reconstruction, and repair of cleft lip and palate. Dr Mickel is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the Southeastern Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the American Cleft Palate Association and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Mickel has given back to his community in numerous ways since he started practicing here over 30 years ago. He is Medical Director of the Northeast Louisiana regional cleft lip and palate clinic and the plastic surgery clinic at the parish health unit. He has served on the Grace Episcopal School board, the St. Frederick school council, and was a founding board member of the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum. He has served as chairman of the Monroe Historical Preservation Commission for over a decade and is active in his church. But the achievement he is most proud of is raising five wonderful children with Stephanie, his wife of over 40 years. An avid outdoorsman, Dr Mickel has hunted dove, duck, squirrel and deer in the woods and fields of north Louisiana since he was a boy. He enjoys hiking and water skiing in the warmer months and snow skiing in the winter. To stay fit enough to pursue these hobbies, he is passionate about exercise - biking, swimming, and doing cardio and weight training on a regular basis. In the ever changing field of plastic surgery, Dr. Mickel strives to stay current, investing in proven technology and offering the latest techniques to help you look your best.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Marci Parker, RDN, LDN The Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana 312 Grammont Street, Suite 303 Monroe, LA 318.398.2984 surgeryclinicnela.com

Whether you had weight-loss surgery two months ago, two years ago, or a decade ago (or longer), Registered Dietitian Marci Parker will answer your questions, offer meal ideas, and ensure you stay motivated. One of Marci’s weight loss patients, Johnny Hood, said it best: “She is so deserving of BayouLife’s Top Nutritionist.” Johnny has lost 80 pounds since his weight loss surgery with General Surgeon Dr. Walter Sartor in November 2024. He said, “We expect medical providers to be professional and great at their jobs. Marci is both of those things, and yet, she’s so much more. She’s professional, and she’s personal, which allows her to develop a deep connection with her patients. She truly cares about our success, and you can tell this job is more than just her job— it’s her passion.” Another patient, John Salter, who lost 216 pounds, said Marci offered continuous support. John said, “I must have called Marci half a dozen times. She gave me her full attention.” Marci, who works as the consulting dietitian for weight-loss surgeries, embodies the mission— transforming lives—of the weight-loss program at The Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana. General Surgeon Dr. Mohamed Bakeer said Marci ensures “all of the weight loss patients meet their goals because she keeps them on track, and subsequently, the weight loss program runs very smoothly.” Dr. Sartor said: “Marci and I have been working together for nearly 20 years, and there is no doubt that she has made our weight loss surgery practice what it is today. A safe and successful surgery is only part of the journey, and sound dietary advice is essential for the patient’s success,” Dr. Sartor said. “She stays current with the best practices guidelines established by the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. I know I can rely on her to follow up with our patients and ensure they are well-prepared to achieve optimal results. She is also our program coordinator, and her impact far exceeds dietary counseling, including helping with the surgery schedule, keeping statistics, and steering the numerous quality improvement projects we have done. She is truly the heart and soul of our weight loss surgery practice, and our team is so grateful for her dedication and expertise.” The Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana also houses surgeons Dr. Bart Liles and Dr. Patrick Smith.

TOP Nutritionist WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 99

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Daniel Raymond, D.D.S. NELA Dental

2016 Tower Dr. | Monroe, LA | 318.387.5732 7699 Highway 2 | Farmerville, LA | 318.368.9518 neladental.com Daniel Raymond grew up in Monroe, Louisiana where he attended St. Frederick High School and received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisiana Monroe. While enrolled at ULM, he was a member of the Warhawk baseball team playing catcher and first base. He graduated from LSU School of Dentistry in 2009. Raymond is a member of the American Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, Northeast Louisiana Dental Association, and a Fellow of the American and International Dental Implant Association(IDIA). He is married to Sarah Taylor Raymond and has three beautiful children, Caroline, William, and Lizzie Jane. He is an avid duck hunter and enjoys spending time with his family. Raymond Introduces Oral Sleep Apnea Solutions NELA Dental is excited to offer patients a new service to help those suffering from sleep apnea. An oral solution for sleep apnea comes in the form of a custom-fitted device designed to keep the airway open during sleep, offering an effective alternative to Continuous Positive Airway

TOP Dentist 100 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Pressure (CPAP) machines for certain patients. These devices are worn in the mouth, resembling a sports mouthguard or orthodontic retainer, and function by repositioning the jaw or tongue to prevent airway obstruction. They are particularly suitable for individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or those unable to tolerate other treatment options. Comfortable, portable, and easy to maintain, oral appliances are tailored to each patient’s needs by Dr. Raymond. NELA Dental works with ProSomnus Sleep Technologies who is FDA approved and a leading provider of innovative solutions for OSA treatment. The company specializes in precision-engineered Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) devices, offering a patient-preferred alternative to CPAP therapy.These appliances are custom-designed to enhance patient comfort and improve clinical outcomes, earning the trust of healthcare providers nationwide. One of ProSomnus’s flagship products is the EVO Sleep and Snore Device, recognized for its superior comfort, durability, and ease of use. This biocompatible and hygienic device is tailored to match each patient’s anatomy for optimal fit and effectiveness. Clinical studies highlight its success, with 96% of users reporting positive experiences and significant improvements in their sleep quality. For those seeking an alternative to traditional CPAP therapy, ProSomnus oral appliances represent a modern, effective, and personalized approach to treating obstructive sleep apnea. NELA Dental accepts most major dental insurance plans, thirdparty payments, and provides flexible financing options. Contact one of our convenient locations in Farmerville and Monroe to schedule your appointment today.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

W. Jason Read, MD Read Eye Center

2600 Tower Drive, Ste. 111 | Monroe, LA 318.387.3881 | readeyecenter.com Dr. Jason Read has dedicated his life and medical practice to helping the Northeast Louisiana community. With a passion for helping people and a love for this area, he has served our community for over 20 years. Dr. Read has practiced ophthalmology in Monroe since 2005, before opening his own clinic, Read Eye Center, in February of 2011. He is truly humbled and thankful to be recommended again as the top ophthalmologist by the medical professionals in our community. Born in Mississippi, Dr. Read attended Mississippi State University where he received his undergraduate degree in Biological Engineering. From there he went on to the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and graduated in 1997. He completed residency training in ophthalmology at the University of Mississippi in 2001. He is a Boardcertified Ophthalmologist specializing in cataract surgery and the treatment of glaucoma and diabetic patients. He is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology since 2002. Dr. Read is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and the Louisiana State Medical Society. He currently serves on the Alli Board of Directors as well as various committees. He served as a past president of the Ouachita Medical Society as well as the Northeast Louisiana Physician Hospital Organization Board. Dr. Read has built and established his practice in the heart of Monroe in the St. Francis building on Tower Drive. Truly a family business, Read Eye Center strives to give patients the best care in a professional, yet friendly environment. They continually update their technology to provide their patients with the latest equipment and treatments available. In addition to surgery, laser, and medical treatments, Read Eye Center has an optical that offers designer frames and sunglasses. Part of the reason for choosing Monroe as home is Dr. Jason Read is a true outdoorsman. He enjoys fishing, biking, photography, and can be caught using his engineering skills in the yard of his home he shares with his wife, Kim and fur babies, George, Elly and Socks. Their oldest daughter, Reagan lives in Memphis and attends the University of Tennessee Health Science Center pursuing a BS in Dental Hygiene and is married to Cole Yoders, a civil engineer for the city of Millington, TN; their middle son, William graduated from Louisiana State University and works for JP Morgan in Baton Rouge as a financial analyst; and their youngest daughter, Hadley attends University of Arkansas in Fayetteville majoring in Interior Design and Architecture. Dr. Read and his family are members of First Methodist Church.

TOP Ophthalmologist WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 101

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

ROCHELLE ROBICHEAUX METOYER MD, MPH, FACR Ruston Rheumatology 1821 Northpointe Lane | Ruston, LA 71270 (318)232-2022 | rustonrheumatology.com “I am immensely fortunate to not only find my calling, but for that calling to be to help others find comfort and healing. To be recognized for this work is a special honor that I hold dear to my heart. “ Dr. Robicheaux received her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine. She completed her internship, residency, chief residency in Internal Medicine, and fellowship in Rheumatology at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans. She has been practicing in Ruston for 11 years. She is board certified in Rheumatology and maintains board certification in general Internal Medicine. Dr Robicheaux is a fellow of the American College of Rheumatology. Although she is not a native of north Louisiana, she is truly proud to call north Louisiana home. Dr Robicheaux is excited to announce the opening of her private practice. The office is located in the former Portico restaurant at the corner of Farmerville Hwy and Northpointe Lane in Ruston (1821 Northpointe Lane). The medical clinic has an onsite infusion suite, onsite laboratory, multiple exam rooms, a large procedure room for musculoskeletal ultrasound and guided joint injections as well as a state -of -the -art conference room. Dr Robicheaux’s passion for her practice is evident in her steadfast focus on patient care, her desire for knowledge on cutting edge therapies, and her amiable relationship with her patients. Dr Robicheaux would like to express gratitude and appreciation for her dedicated team including Samantha Collice, Whitney Turner, Samantha Aldy, Emma Carter, Misty Sullivan, Shaylee Fitzgerald, Andria Fields, and Amber Mack. These ladies exhibit an unwavering commitment to bringing a high level of specialized rheumatologic care to patients across north central and north east Louisiana. In her leisure time, Dr Robicheaux enjoys reading, cooking, traveling and spending time with her husband , Dr. Kenneth Metoyer, Jr and their three children Nyah ( 14), Austyn (8), and Beau (7).

TOP rheumatologist 102 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Mallory Sanaie, M.A. CCC-SLP Thrive Pediatric Therapy

4624 Cypress St #8 | West Monroe, LA (318)654-7439 | thrivepediatricstherapy.com Mallory Sanaie, M.A., CCC-SLP, is a highly respected pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and the founder of Thrive Pediatric Therapy. Mallory is a strong advocate for family-centered care who has created and environment where progress is celebrated and every child feels valued. Mallory was born in West Monroe and graduated in 2010 from West Monroe High School before pursuing her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Louisiana Tech University. The first generation graduate received magna cum laude honors in 2013 and 2015. She then completed her clinical fellowship in Monroe to obtain her Certification of Clinical Competence. She is a certified ADOS instructor, a Beckman Oral Motor certified provider, an AEIOU feeding course graduate, and specializes in early childhood language development. She loves travel, tennis, CrossFit, needlepointing, and going on walks with her newest furry addition to the clinic, Andy, her 1 year old Bernedoodle. Born into a diverse family culture, entrepreneurship runs deep in the Sanaie house. Mallory opened an event rental company to make her dream of clinic ownership come true. In late 2020, Thrive Pediatric Therapy was born. Mallory has built a practice rooted in excellence and connection. She is passionate about intervention and believes therapy should be both effective and joyful. She blends structured therapeutic strategies with child-led engagement, allowing each child’s unique personality and needs to guide the session. She loves working with early language learners, children with developmental delays, and families navigating complex communication challenges. Mallory collaborates with other providers and building a culture that prioritizes kindness and community impact. Her latest initiative to provide “Mom’s night out” for special needs medical parents, where she encourages and equips other women pursuing connection in a world that can otherwise feel isolating. As a Leadership Ouachita graduate of 2024, Mallory is involved in her community participating in the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, a Top 20 under 40 Nominee, and winner of Tarte’s women in business award. Her dedication has earned her multiple recognitions, including being named Best SLP for the “Top Docs” edition, a testament to the trust and appreciation she has built among families and colleagues. Mallory sees each award not as a personal accomplishment, but as a reflection of hard work and dedication to helping the children of our are Thrive.

TOP speech therapist WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 103

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Amber Shemwell, MD The Woman’s Clinic 312 Grammont Street | Monroe, LA 318.388.4030 www.thewomansclinic.net

Photo by Steven Palowsky

TOP Obstetrician-Gynecologist 104 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Dr. Amber Shemwell is a dedicated and compassionate obstetrician-gynecologist whose career has been shaped by a deep commitment to caring for women through every stage of life. Born in New Orleans and raised in Marksville, Dr. Shemwell has called this community home for nearly 20 years. What began as a place to practice medicine has grown into a place she proudly considers her forever home, where her personal and professional roots continue to deepen. Dr. Shemwell earned her undergraduate degree from Louisiana College before completing medical school at LSU Health Sciences Center in Shreveport. She remained at LSU for her residency training, where her passion for women’s health truly flourished. Since 2008, she has been a partner at TWC, where she has built long-standing relationships with patients and colleagues alike, guided by a philosophy rooted in trust, continuity, and comprehensive care. Specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Shemwell was drawn to the field for its unique blend of surgical expertise and long-term patient relationships. She values the opportunity to care for women across all phases of life—from adolescence to motherhood and beyond—and finds it incredibly rewarding to walk alongside patients through both routine and life-changing moments. Her desire to enter medicine stems from a lifelong calling to care for others and help people become the healthiest, strongest versions of themselves. Outside of the clinic, Dr. Shemwell treasures time spent with her family, including her husband, Clay, and their children, who she notes are growing up far too quickly. She also enjoys gardening, exercising, and spending time with her close-knit group of friends. Recently, she challenged herself in a powerful way by completing a misogi—rucking a marathon in Sedona with three friends—proving to herself that she is capable of doing hard things, both in life and in medicine.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Dr. Terry O. Thomas HealthPoint Center 1818 Avenue of America, Monroe, LA 71201 318.998.2700 www.healthpointcenter.com

Terry O. Thomas, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist who provides services through HealthPoint Center LLC, a multidisciplinary practice in Monroe, LA. HealthPoint Center is comprised of licensed mental health specialists that provide comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Thomas obtained his Master of Science is Psychology and a Master of Arts in Gerontology from the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM). He earned his doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology from Louisiana Tech University. Dr. Thomas completed his residency training through the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) in the Department of Psychiatry. This clinical training included rotations through Arkansas Children’s Hospital, UAMS Child Study Center, and Methodist Behavioral Hospital. Dr. Thomas has provided mental health services since 1994 and has been affiliated with a variety of public and private programs and agencies. He has conducted research and taught at ULM, Louisiana Tech, and UAMS. His clinical interests focus on the assessment and treatment of emotional, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental disorders in children, adolescents and adults. He also works with couples and families in crisis. Dr. Thomas is a member of the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Louisiana Psychological Association (LPA). He serves on several boards and is active in his community on issues regarding mental health. Dr. Thomas is married to Mary Ann Thomas, and they have four adult children. He enjoys cooking for friends and family, music, traveling, and spending time outdoors.

TOP Psychologist WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 105

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Rayna Trujillo, M.S., CCC-SLP

Prosper Therapy and Feeding Solutions 1900 Auburn Ave Ste F/G | Monroe, LA 318-373-6324 | prospertherapyla.com

TOP Speech-Language Pathologist 106 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Rayna Trujillo, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a SpeechLanguage Pathologist whose work is defined by curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for how humans develop communication. She is currently employed with Prosper Therapy and Feeding Solutions in Monroe, LA. Rayna brings a thoughtful, evidenced-based approach to helping children find their voice, build confidence, and connect meaningfully with those around them. A graduate of the University of Louisiana Monroe, Rayna earned her Master’s degree in SpeechLanguage Pathology after completing undergraduate studies in Pre-Speech and Early Childhood Development. Her training includes advanced coursework in orofacial myofunctional disorders, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), feeding and swallowing disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and upper airway development as it relates to speech and swallowing. Before joining Prosper Therapy, Rayna gained valuable experience as the sole speech-language pathologist across two skilled nursing facilities, developing her independence and clinical versatility. It was during this time that she discovered her true calling in pediatrics. Today, she specializes in early language development, supporting children with autism spectrum disorder, and guiding families through AAC implementation with compassion and clarity. Rayna’s philosophy centers on the belief that connection comes before correction. She prioritizes trust, rapport, and emotional safety—creating space for children to explore, take risks, and communicate authentically. A native of Natchez, Mississippi, Rayna now calls North Louisiana home, where she lives with her husband, Jamie, and their two-year-old son. Outside the clinic, she enjoys reading, animals, and spending intentional time with family—interests that mirror the same warmth, curiosity, and grounded perspective she brings to every family she serves at Prosper Therapy and Feeding Solutions.

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Jason Wilson, MD

The Woman’s Clinic 312 Grammont Street | Monroe, LA 318.388.4030 www.thewomansclinic.net

Dr. Jason B. Wilson is a highly respected, boardcertified obstetrician-gynecologist whose career reflects a lifelong commitment to service, science, and compassionate care. A Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr. Wilson brings decades of experience and dedication to women’s health in Louisiana. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Dr. Wilson demonstrated academic excellence early on as the valedictorian of Woodlawn High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from Louisiana Tech University, where his love for science and medicine continued to grow. During his undergraduate years, Dr. Wilson proudly served on active duty with the National Guard during Desert Storm in Saudi Arabia—an experience that reinforced his deep sense of duty and service to others. Dr. Wilson went on to receive his Doctor of Medicine degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport, where he once again graduated as valedictorian. He completed his obstetrics and gynecology residency at the University of Florida in Gainesville. It was during his obstetrics rotation in medical school that he discovered his calling, finding profound fulfillment in caring for pregnant patients and guiding families through some of the most meaningful moments of their lives. Returning to Louisiana in 1999, Dr. Wilson entered private practice, working alongside Dr. Ralph Armstrong before continuing his career in women’s health for more than two decades. In 2002, he joined The Woman’s Clinic, Inc., where he has provided exceptional care for the past 23 years, rooted in experience, trust, and compassion. Outside of medicine, Dr. Wilson treasures time with his family. He and his wife, Katherine, have shared 33 wonderful years together. They are proud parents of two sons who followed in their footsteps into medicine—both ophthalmologists—and doting grandparents to three grandchildren. As a family, they enjoy traveling, college football, dining out, and strength training, cherishing the time spent together above all else.

TOP Obstetrician-Gynecologist WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 107

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Alexis G. Albin, MD St. Francis Medical Group Practices at St. Francis Primary Care Clinic 3100 Forsythe Avenue | Monroe, LA 318.966.5450 | stfran.com

top INTERNIST

Alexis G. Albin, MD, is a native of Monroe, Louisiana. She graduated summa cum laude from Millsaps College with a bachelor of arts in Spanish and a Bachelor of Science in Biology with Honors. She then attended the LSU Health Sciences Center – Shreveport School of Medicine where she obtained her doctor of medicine with research distinction. She completed her specialty training in internal medicine and pediatrics at LSU Health Sciences Center – Shreveport. During her training, she served as the chief resident of the internal medicine-pediatrics residency program as well as the chief resident of the pediatrics program. Dr. Albin is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Pediatrics. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and is a member of American Medical Association, American Academy of Pediatrics and the Louisiana State Medical Society. Dr. Albin chose a career in internal medicine and pediatrics because it allows her the ability to provide comprehensive care for the entire family. When not caring for patients, Dr. Albin enjoys spending time with her husband, Dr. Tyler Albin, and their two sons (ages 5 and 2). The Albin family is anxiously awaiting the arrival of their third child, a daughter, this winter. Dr. Albin also enjoys cooking, reading, hunting, and being outdoors with family and friends.

Scott Barron, MD St. Francis Medical Group

Practices at St. Francis Oncology and Hematology Clinic 411 Calypso Street, Suite 200-A, Monroe, LA 318.966.1970 | stfran.com

“It is an honor to be included among the Top Docs of 2026, but it would not have been possible without the support of the excellent staff of the St. Francis Hematology and Oncology clinic, especially my team including Danielle Traweek, NP, Amanda McMurray and Ramona Weeks. It is my goal to offer cutting edge oncologic care locally to minimize the need for patient travel and to take care of patients both in the clinic as well as in the hospital when needed,” said Dr. Scott Barron. Dr. Barron is Board Certified medical oncologist raised in Monroe, a graduate of River Oaks High School, Tulane University and LSU Medical School-Shreveport before completing internal medicine residency and hematology/oncology fellowship at LSU-New Orleans. He is the proud father of three wonderful children and husband of a wife he does not deserve.

TOP Oncologist 108 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Aristoteles Peña-Miches, MD St. Francis Medical Group

Practices at the St. Francis Pediatric Neurology Clinic 500 Hall Street | Monroe, LA 318.966.7337|stfran.com

TOP Neurologist

Dr. Aristoteles Pena-Miches is a Board Certified Pediatric Neurologist, practicing in the Northeast Louisiana area since joining the St. Francis Medical Group in 1999. He received his medical degree in 1982 from the Autonoma University of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. He went on to complete his pediatric residency training at New York Medical College and Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx and later completed his pediatric neurology fellowship at State University of New York Health and Science Center in Brooklyn. His pediatric neurology scope is not only limited to offering office and inpatient consults but also interpreting electroencephalograms, from newborn to early adolescents. Dr. Pena utilizes the latest treatments for progressive genetic disorders. He offers specialized epilepsy treatments such as Vagus Nerve Stimulator, spasticity treatment with Botulinum toxin injections, continuous infusion pump of Lioresal, and since 2016, the use of Spinraza in the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy. Dr. Pena firmly believes in treating each patient the same as if they were his child or grandchild. His goal is to help his patients overcome or minimize the negative impact neurological illnesses may create in their lives as well as their families’ lives while maintaining a “team approach,” in which patients are educated regarding the challenges these illnesses can produce in the family.

Paul Murphy, MD

St. Francis Medical Group Practices at St. Francis Urology Clinic 312 Grammont Drive, Suite 404 | Monroe, LA 318.966.8733 | stfran.com

Paul Murphy, MD, received his bachelor of science in biological sciences from Louisiana State University. Dr. Murphy earned his medical degree from LSU Health Sciences Center in Shreveport. He completed his general surgery internship and urology residency from the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center. Dr. Murphy is beginning his 8th year of practice in Monroe and focuses on robotic and oncologic urology, but also practices general urology. Dr. Murphy feels very fortunate to work in a field he truly loves and enjoys connecting with his patients. When he’s not caring for patients, he enjoys spending time with his family, cooking, and hunting—especially duck hunting.

TOP urologist WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 109

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

Resham R. Poudel, MD St. Francis Medical Group Practices at the St. Francis Endocrinology Clinic 2600 Tower Drive, Suite 215, Monroe, LA 318.966.6490 | stfran.com

Resham Poudel, MD is a Board-Certified Endocrinologist with the St. Francis Medical Group. As an endocrinologist, he treats adult patients with ‘hormone-related diseases’ or ‘disorders of glands that produce hormones’ including diabetes, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), thyroid nodule or goiter, thyroid cancer, high calcium problems, hyperparathyroidism, adrenal nodule, Cushing syndrome, pituitary tumor, low testosterone, etc. Dr. Poudel graduated Medical School from Nepal followed by an internal medicine residency at Western Reserve Health Education in Youngstown, OH. He completed an endocrinology fellowship at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport, LA. He is licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners and is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in internal medicine and endocrinology. When Dr. Poudel is not caring for patients, he spends time with his family, playing with his children, going out to see nature, rivers, and parks. He also loves watching science fiction, mostly time travel.

TOP ENDOCRINOLOGIST

Gregory Sampognaro, MD St. Francis Medical Group Practices at St. Francis Cardiology Associates 2600 Tower Drive, Suite 418 | Monroe, LA 318.966.6800 | stfran.com

Gregory Sampognaro, MD is an interventional cardiologist practicing at St. Francis Cardiology Associates on Tower Drive in Monroe. He received his medical degree in cardiovascular disease from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans. He completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Alabama Hospital and his Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation. Dr. Sampognaro attended Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center for his interventional cardiology Fellowship.

TOP cardiologist 110 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

BayouLife Magazine’s

2026 TOP DOCS

WINNERS

ALLERGIST

Dr. Benjamin Oyefara, MD Asthma & Allergy Center 2908 Evangeline St. #3724, Monroe (318) 398-7100

AUDIOLOGIST

Deborah Cowan, AuD., CCC-A Acadian Hearing & Balance Center 107 Contempo Ave., Suite 3 (318) 410-9095 acadianhearing.net

ANESTHESIOLOGIST

Rushton Jones, MD Alli Anesthesia 101 Catalpa St., Monroe (318) 998-7600 allimso.com

CARDIOLOGIST

Gregory Sampagnaro, MD St. Francis Cardiology Associates 2600 Tower Dr., Suite 418 | Monroe, LA (318) 966-6800 stfran.com

CERTIFIED REGISTERED NURSE ANESTHETIST Sperry Brown, CRNA Alli Anesthesia 101 Catalpa St., Monroe

(318) 998-7600 allimso.com

CHIROPRACTOR

Kayla Deshotel, DC Chiropractic Health Services 811 Cypress St., West Monroe (318) 410-9919 chirohealthwm.com

DENTIST

Daniel Raymond, DDS NELA Dental 2016 Tower Dr. | Monroe, LA (318) 387-5732 7699 Highway 2 | Farmerville, LA (318) 368-9518 neladental.com David Finley, DDS Bayou Dental Group 2501 Tower Dr., Monroe (318) 323-9303 smile-creator.com

DERMATOLOGIST

Janine Hopkins, MD Hopkins Dermatology 2509 Broadmoor Blvd., Monroe (318) 325-0600 hopkinsdermatology.com

ENDOCRINOLOGIST

Resham R. Poudel, MD St. Francis Medical Center 2600 Tower Drive, Suite 215,

Monroe (318) 966-6490 stfran.com

FERTILITY CLINIC

(318) 966-5450 stfran.com

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

NEUROLOGIST

Anna Giannobile Dearman, MBA, MOT, LOTR, CLC, CST, IBCLC Prosper Therapy and Feeding Solutions 1900 Auburn Ave Ste F/G, Monroe (318) 373-6324 prospertherapyla.com

David Vandermolen, MD, MS Arklatex Fertility 2401 Greenwood Rd., Shreveport (318) 841-5800 arklatexfertility.com

Aristoteles Pena-Miches, MD St. Francis Pediatric Neurology Clinic 500 Hall St., Monroe (318) 966-7337 stfran.com

OTALARYNGOLOGIST/ ENT

NEUROSURGEON

Marshall A. Cain, MD SMFG Neurosurgery 2807 Mark Dr., Monroe (318) 966-1550 stfran.com

Scott Barron, MD St. Francis Medical Group Oncology & Hematology Clinic 411 Calypso Street Suite 200-A, Monroe, (318) 966-1970 stfran.com

GASTROENTEROLOGIST

NURSE PRACTITIONER

OPHTHALMOLOGIST

Anna Grace Livingston AGNP-C Hopkins Dermatology 2509 Broadmoor Blvd., Monroe (318) 325-0600 hopkinsdermatology.com

W. Jason Read, MD Read Eye Center 2600 Tower Drive, Ste 111, Monroe (318) 387-3881 readeyecenter.com

Kyle Bruyninckx, MD Bruyninckx Medical Clinic Internal Medicine and Pediatrics 117 Ellington Drive, Rayville (318) 728-0281 bruyninckxmedical.com

NUTRITIONIST

OPTOMETRIST

Andi Holyfield LDN, RD Eat to Lose 3801 Chauvin Ln., Monroe (318) 348-3120 eattoloseinc.com

Jody Moss, OD Moss Eye Care 3300 Sterlington Road, Monroe (318) 387-5657 mosseyecare.com

Owen Meyers, MD Affinity Health Group 920 Oliver Rd. Monroe (318) 807-4900 batonrougeclinic.com

Cindy Brantly, MS, LDN, RDN Affinity Nutrition and Diabetes Care Clinic 920 Oliver Road, Monroe (318) 807-1500 batonrougeclinic.com

ORAL SURGEON

Bart Liles, MD The Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana 312 Grammont Street, Suite 303, Monroe (318) 398-2984 surgeryclinicnela.com

Marci Parker, LDN, RDN The Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana 312 Grammont St. #303, Monroe (318) 398-2984 surgeryclinicnela.com

ORTHODONTIST

HOSPICE

Amber Shemwell, MD The Woman's Clinic 312 Grammont St. Ste 300, Monroe (318) 388-4030 thewomansclinic.net

Wilson Barham, MD Louisiana ENT Specialists 2802 Kilpatrick Blvd., Monroe (318) 855-6282 lents.com

Raj Bhandari, MD 616 S Washington St., Bastrop (318) 283-2177 mghospital.com

GENERAL PRACTICE

GENERAL SURGEON

Premier Hospice 1800 Hudson Ln., Suite 2B, Monroe 1513 Texas Ave., Bastrop (318) 388-0555 premierbastrop.com

INTERNIST

Alexis G. Albin, MD St. Francis Primary Care Clinic 3100 Forsythe Ave., Monroe

ONCOLOGIST/HEMATOLOGIST

OB/GYN

Jason Wilson, MD The Woman's Clinic 312 Grammont St. Ste 300, Monroe (318) 388-4030 thewomansclinic.net

Nicholas Gregory, DDS Oral Surgery Associates 2003 Forsythe Avenue, Monroe (318) 388-2621 oralsurgeryassociates.com

Ricky Caples, DDS Chris Robinson, DDS Cammie Laird, DDS Caples & Robinson Orthodontics 2210 Forsythe Avenue, Monroe (318) 325-9655 caplesrobinsonortho.com

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON

Kristopher Sirmon, MD Northern Louisiana Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine 1501 Louisville Avenue, Monroe (318) 323-8451 northlaortho.com

PAIN MANAGEMENT Vincent Forte, MD Louisiana Pain Care

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BAYOULIFE TOP DOCS 2026

3210 Layton Avenue, Monroe (318) 616-6877 lapaincare.com

PATHOLOGIST

Stephen P. Blanchard, MD, FCAP Delta Pathology Group 309 Jackson St., SFMC Pathology Department, Monroe (318) 966-4105

PEDIATRICIAN

Gary Stanley, MD Pediatric Associates 2600 Tower Drive, #214, Monroe (318) 323-8824

PHARMACY

Live Oak Pharmacy 2123 Forsythe Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 liveoakmonroe.com

PHYSICAL THERAPIST

Melanie Massey Groves, PT Melanie Massey Physical Therapy Monroe. West Monroe. Ruston, Shreveport

(318) 396-1969 www.mmptinc.com

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT

Thomas Marsala Jr., PA Haik Humble Eye Center 1804 N. 7th St., West Monroe 1801 Auburn Ave., Monroe 138 Christian Dr., Rayville (318) 325-2610 haikhumble.com Meaghan Castleberry, PA-C Ochsner LSU Health 4864 Jackson St., Monroe (318) 330-7168 ochsnerlsuhs.org

PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGIST

Terry D. King, MD Ochsner Health Center for Children 300 Pavillion Rd., West Monroe (318) 323-1100 ochsner.org

PLASTIC SURGEON

Timothy J. Mickel, MD, FACS Mickel Plastic Surgery

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903 N. 2nd Street, Monroe (318) 388-2050 mickelplasticsurgery.com

PODIATRIST

David Gardner, DPM Glenwood Foot and Ankle 102 Thomas Road, Ste 111, West Monroe (318) 322-5506

PSYCHIATRIST

Sanjay Chaudhuri, MD Affinity Health Group 920 Oliver Rd., Monroe (318) 807-4900 batonrougeclinic.com

PSYCHOLOGIST

Terry Thomas, PHD HealthPoint Center 1818 Avenue of America, Monroe healthpointcenter.com (318) 998-2700

PULMONOLOGIST

Marshall Scott Irby, MD St. Francis Medical Group

Irby Pulmonary Clinic 2810 Armand St., Monroe (318) 322-5864 stfran.com

RADIOLOGIST

John Davis, MD Radiology Associates 1888 Hudson Circle, Ste 2, Monroe (318) 387-3453 myimagingpartners.com

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

Melissa Traxler, MD TNT Stem Cell 506 N 31st St, Ste 1, Monroe (318) 582-5411 tntstemcell.com

RHEUMATOLOGIST

Rochelle Robicheaux-Metoyer, MD, MPH, FACR Ruston Rheumatology 1821 Northpointe Ln., Ruston (318) 232-2022

SPEECH PATHOLOGIST

Rayna Trujillo, MS, CCC-SLP

Prosper Therapy and Feeding Solutions 1900 Auburn Ave Ste F/G, Monroe (318) 373-6324 prospertherapyla.com Mallory Sanaie, MA CCC-LP Thrive Pediatric Therapy 4624 Cypress St., Suite 8 West Monroe (318) 654-7439 thrivepediatricstherapy.com

UROLOGIST

Paul Murphy, MD St. Francis Urology Clinic 312 Grammont Drive, Ste, 404, Monroe (318) 966-8733 st. fran.com

Hudson Lane Title Company

Welcoming New Real Estate Closing Attorney, Anslee W. Berry

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S HUDSON LANE TITLE company steps confidently into the New Year, the firm is proud to announce the addition of its newest real estate closing attorney, Anslee W. Berry. After a year and a half in the legal profession, Berry has chosen to expand her practice by entering the world of real estate closings—a natural next step that reflects both her dedication to the legal field and her passion for serving families and businesses across Northeast Louisiana. Born in West Monroe, Berry is deeply rooted in the community she now serves. She graduated from West Monroe High School in 2018 before pursuing higher education at the University of Mississippi, where she earned her B.S.L.S. and a minor in professional writing, graduating cum laude. She continued her academic excellence at Mississippi College School of Law, receiving her Juris Doctorate in 2024 along with a Certificate in

Civil Law Studies. During law school, Berry distinguished herself as a leader and high achiever. She served as President of the Civil Law Society, earned three Best Paper Awards, played a key role in finalizing numerous adoptions through the Adoption Clinic, and represented the school as a Dean’s Ambassador for Admissions. Her commitment to families and children naturally led her to Hudson, Potts & Bernstein, L.L.P., where she began her legal career in 2024 as an Associate Attorney focusing on Adoption Proceedings and Estate Planning/Probate. Berry’s influence extends beyond the legal world. She is the Founder of the Faith Over Fear Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to raising money for cancer resources and awarding an annual scholarship in memory of her late mother, Angel. She is also an active member of Christ Church, the Louisiana State Bar Association,

and the NELA Young Professionals. Hudson Lane Title Company operates as a division of Hudson, Potts & Bernstein L.L.P., which proudly celebrated its 150th anniversary this year. The company provides comprehensive real estate closing services for buyers, sellers, and lenders across residential, commercial, and recreational property transactions. Attorneys Stephen A. North and Morgan Livingston are delighted to welcome Berry to the real estate closing team. Her drive, community spirit, and strong academic foundation make her a valuable addition as the firm continues its longstanding tradition of excellence. With Berry’s arrival, Hudson Lane Title Company looks forward to a bright and promising year—one marked by growth, strengthened service, and an ever-deepening commitment to the clients and community it proudly serves.

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An Enchanting Bayou Retreat

The Sellers Reflect on Their Time at 620 W Bayou Drive

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E PURCHASED THIS HOME IN 1996, drawn by its idyllic country setting along Bayou Bartholomew and the rare opportunity to remain within the Ouachita Parish School System. Sterlington proved to be the perfect fit—close enough for everyday needs, yet far enough to feel peaceful and private. Even then, it was clearly an upand-coming place to live. The home was acquired from the original owners, a wonderful couple who had built it just under eleven years earlier. With access to quality building supplies, they invested thoughtfully in upgrades and craftsmanship throughout the original structure, which was completed in October of 1985. In 2016, we undertook a major new addition along with a complete renovation of the original home, carefully blending old and new into a seamless whole. Choosing favorite features is nearly impossible—much like picking a favorite

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book or meal. Still, a few stand out. First is the unparalleled view of Bayou Bartholomew, positioned perfectly on a gentle bend of the water. The renovation was intentionally designed so that nearly every room on the back of the home enjoys this view. Equally special is the neighborhood itself. Our quiet street is home to community leaders, including the Sterlington mayor, police officers, and clergy, with our house resting peacefully at the end of the road—serene, safe, and welcoming. Another highlight is the exceptional construction quality. The bayou-facing walls are nearly twelve inches thick, featuring extensive insulation and thermal windows that actually reduced energy costs even after the home’s square footage was doubled. From Masur Museum light fixtures and custom ceiling fans to Stanley six-panel doors and top-tier electrical systems, every material was selected for quality and longevity. The entire downstairs is wheelchair

accessible without sacrificing warmth or beauty. Wide doorways, movable kitchen islands, and a full handicap bathroom suite with private patio access make the space incredibly versatile— ideal for a mother-in-law suite, traveling nurse, Airbnb, or multigenerational living. The kitchen features custom rock maple cabinetry from Wisconsin, designed specifically for its generous layout. Nearby, the conservatory-style sunroom—with its charming swinging bed—offers a favorite spot for reading, crafting, or watching the abundant wildlife, including a family of eagles. Upstairs, a private office with its own balcony and adjacent workout room offers a peaceful retreat and could easily serve as a second primary suite. From the balcony, fishing tournaments and bayou life unfold right before your eyes. The home’s style can best be described as Classical Country Elegance—intentionally avoiding trends in favor of timeless charm. It is beautiful yet practical, designed to feel like a true home where guests feel comfortable and welcome. Our children grew up here, surrounded by nature, community, and excellent schools. Every corner holds memories. As we move into the next season of life, we leave behind a home that is truly enchanting—patiently awaiting its next fortunate owners to call it home.

Snuggs and Cash Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Snuggs Welcomes Dr. Carol Cash Causey

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nuggs and Cash Pediatric Dentistry is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care to children from infancy through young adulthood — and beyond. Serving patients ages 0–18, the practice focuses on creating a positive, supportive environment for children.The practice offers a full range of pediatric dental services, including exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, and extractions. For children who need additional support, they provide nitrous oxide, conscious sedation, and treatment under general anesthesia. Their goal is to ensure each visit is safe, gentle, and tailored to the individual needs of every patient — whether it’s a routine cleaning or a fullmouth rehabilitation. What truly sets Snuggs and Cash Pediatric Dentistry apart is the team’s advanced training and personalized approach. The practice is privately owned and operated by two highly trained pediatric dentists Dr. John Snuggs and Dr. Carol Cash— both of whom completed their

pediatric dental residencies at the University of Tennessee. Their specialized training includes child psychology and development, oral pathology, trauma care, treatment for patients with special needs, and sedation and anesthesia techniques. In addition to providing in-office care, both doctors hold hospital privileges at St. Francis P&S Surgery Center, where they perform full-mouth dental rehabilitation under general anesthesia. This allows them to provide comprehensive treatment for children with extensive dental needs or medical complexities in a controlled, safe environment. Dr. John Snuggs has proudly served the Northeast Louisiana community for over 30 years. A graduate of Ole Miss and the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry, Dr. Snuggs is known for his deep commitment to his patients and his compassionate approach to pediatric care. Dr. Carol Cash Causey is Board-Certified

by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She received her undergraduate at Louisiana State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences. Dr. Cash attended dental school at Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in New Orleans, graduating with honors in Pediatric Dentistry. She completed her 2 Year Residency at the University of Tennessee, serving as Chief Resident, and trained at nationally renowned hospitals LeBonheur Children’s Hospital and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. There she gained elevated experience with children who have extensive special health care needs. For Dr. Cash, pediatric dentistry is about more than treating teeth — it’s about building trust and joy. “The most rewarding part of my job,” she shares, “is fostering a positive relationship between a child and the dentist through the trust we build, the laughs we share, and the hugs we embrace.” Her partnership with Dr. Snuggs is a meaningful one — he was once her husband’s childhood dentist. Together, they continue a legacy of compassionate, family-oriented care. At Snuggs and Cash Pediatric Dentistry, every smile matters — and every child is treated like family.

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B AYO U I C O N

THE FASTER PASTOR

Jeff Thomas runs . . . a lot! He ran his first marathon (the Twin City Marathon) on November 6, 2022, and covered 26.2 miles on that day. Since then he has run nine marathons including three of the world majors (New York in November 2023, Chicago in October 2024, and Boston in April 2025). Each time he runs, Jeff uses his legs and stamina to raise funds for, and increase awareness of, causes important to him. While running is a big part of his life, it is only one part of a life dedicated to service. Jeff says that he runs with purpose and passion. He says that his purpose for running is to give God glory. A fulltime pastor for Start Baptist Church, Jeff has been leading that church for 14 years. Jeff has been known as “Faster Pastor Jeff” ever since a child in his church made a sign to show support when Jeff ran in that first marathon. The sign read, “My pastor is faster!” Jeff says that he also runs with passion – a passion to raise funds that will help children at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. He is a St. Jude Hero, running to honor and support the work being done there. He is planning to run as a St. Jude Hero in the Tokyo Marathon (March 1, 2026), the London Marathon (April 26, 2026), and the Berlin Marathon (September 27, 2026). With these, Jeff will have completed the Six Star World Major Marathon Series as a St. Jude Hero. Jeff’s life is an inspiration to many, not just his flock in Start. Because of his dedication to serving others and living for Christ, Jeff Thomas is our January 2026 BayouIcon. ARTICLE BY GEORGIANN POTTS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

IT’S EASY TO MISS START, LOUISIANA, if you are a stranger take off his coat and we would throw the baseball until Mom driving along Interstate 20. Locals, however, know what a lovely called us in for dinner!” community Start is – and what very nice people live there. Favorite family times away from home were when their One of those is Jeff Thomas, the parents would take the boys to pastor at Start Baptist Church. He is Major League Baseball games devoted to the church and the Start during the summer. They would community. And why shouldn’t he also try to visit Six Flags Over Texas be? He grew up in Start and his roots as much as possible. there are deep. Classroom Education Jeff was the middle son born Jeff’s education began at Start to John and Pat Thomas. His father, Elementary and continued for a John, was a commercial underwriter time at Start High School until it for State Farm Insurance. His was consolidated with Rayville mother, Patricia Townsend Thomas, High School. He loved basketball, remained at home while their baseball, and track and was children were small. After they good at all three. Jeff played high were in school, Pat began working school basketball and baseball at Start Elementary School as a both at Start High and later at teacher’s aide. Jeff’s siblings are Riverfield Academy in Rayville. older brother John Thomas, Jr. and He transferred to Riverfield when his younger brother Chris. John is he began 10th grade. During an occupational therapist and lives his senior year at Riverfield, the with his wife, Dawn, in Rayville. basketball team won the State Dawn teaches 2nd grade at Ouachita Championship. “I also ran track at Christian School. Younger brother Riverfield, running the 800 meter, Chris works in computer technology the 1600 meter, and the 3200 meter, and information systems with Dean as well as several relays,” Jeff says. Morris Law. He and his wife Brandi “I don’t think I really fell in love Howard live in Monroe where she with running at that time, but works as an interior designer. eventually I would start running Growing Up in Rural Louisiana again.” When Jeff was two years old, Tragedy struck just before Jeff’s his parents built a home for the RUNNING FOR A CAUSE 16th birthday. His dad was at the family. He and his siblings grew up Rayville baseball park coaching (Clockwise From Top): Daughter Hillary Noble. in that home and his mother still Chris’s baseball team when their Marty and Jeff Thomas after the 2023 New York City lives there today. The location was dad suffered a massive heart Marathon. Jeff with his supporters at the Twin City perfect because both sets of their attack. After his dad’s death, Jeff Marathon on November 6, 2022. grandparents lived close by. Many says that his cousin by marriage, aunts and uncles were also nearby. Mike Barham, stepped in to help Because of the family’s proximity, Jeff and his siblings never him. Jeff went to work on the farm in Oak Ridge, Louisiana, for moved around much. He says that they really only moved when Mike. There he worked in the cotton fields and with the farm they went to college and/or got married. stock. “Mike is about 19 years older than I am,” Jeff says. “He One couple – Jeff’s great-aunt Nancy Wilson and greatbecame a huge mentor in my life. He and his wife Sally have uncle James Wilson -- lived in the house right next door. “They always included us in their family activities and lives. To this both had major impacts on me and my brothers,” Jeff says. “They day, they are still big parts of our lives.” taught us many life lessons, and Aunt Nancy loved the Lord and Love and Marriage taught me many things about the Bible. Both of them have made On the very first day of school when he enrolled at Riverfield a huge impact upon my life!” Academy, Jeff was walking on campus with some friends and When asked about his homelife growing up, Jeff is quick saw a girl walking toward the gym. He laughingly told his to reply. He says that the home his parents made for him and friends that someday he was going to marry that girl. Jeff did his brothers was one in which all of the boys felt loved and just that. That girl was Marty Hill, and she was a 9th grader. The encouraged. Their parents taught them how to work hard in two began dating shortly thereafter and married in 1992. This school and in sports, and took them to church so that they could past August they celebrated their 33rd wedding anniversary. learn about the Lord. He is quick to add that his parents also When Jeff was a child and until well into his adolescence, taught them through their actions. Their examples were key to he wanted to be a teacher and a coach. He enrolled at Northeast the boys’ growth and development physically and spiritually. Louisiana University (now ULM) and graduated in 1996 after Among many happy childhood memories that Jeff treasures earning a bachelor’s degree in English with a history minor. are the times that he and his dad would play catch. His dad Marty also graduated from NLU earning an early education would come home from work to find Jeff sitting in the driveway degree. With degree in hand, Jeff began teaching and coaching with his glove, a baseball, and his dad’s catcher’s mitt. “Dad at Riverfield Academy in 1996. Marty began teaching at Rayville wouldn’t even take his tie off,” Jeff remembers. “He would just Elementary in 1997. 118 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

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B AYO U I C O N

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n June 1996, Jeff and Marty welcomed the birth of their first child. Their daughter, Hillary Noble, was the first grandchild on either side of their families so she was heartily welcomed. In late October of that year, they noticed that Hillary’s eye was twitching back and forth. They took her to St. Francis Medical Center where doctors discovered that their child had a brain tumor. Hillary had surgery on November 4th, and passed away on November 6th. The shock and sadness were devastating, but their faith sustained them. Both Jeff and Marty were heavily involved in the Start Baptist Church. When they were dating, both were active with the youth group there. Two members of the church – Don and Sherry Parker – greatly influenced the young couple. “They taught us all about the Lord and the Bible, and they took us on trips and planned so many activities for us,” Jeff says. “More than anything, they listened to us and they loved us when we needed it most. Both Don and Sherry still go to Start Baptist Church, and they are still my mentors today!” A Career Finds Jeff In 2001 both Marty and Jeff began working at Ouachita Christian School. Marty taught kindergarten several years and then began teaching 2nd grade. Jeff taught high school English and coached the boys’ basketball team. Although he had served as youth pastor at Start Baptist church from 1993-1996 and then periodically when needed for another decade, Jeff readily admits that his focus was coaching basketball. All of that changed when Jeff gave himself over to a career in the ministry in 2009. He earned his Master’s in Biblical Studies from Louisiana College. He became the associate pastor at Start Baptist Church and in 2012 became the lead pastor there. Jeff credits much of his success in the pulpit to Bro. Jeff Smart, his pastor and mentor for many years, and Dr. Argile Smith, his lead professor at Louisiana College. “Dr. Smith really taught me so much about the Bible,” Jeff says, “but he also taught me about being a pastor and ministering to people.” Over time, Marty and Jeff had four children – two sons and two daughters. Their second born was daughter Francie who lives in Dallas where she works for Origin Bank. Their first son Jacob lives in Ruston and works for Louisiana Tech University. Daughter Katie attends Cloyd’s Beauty School in West Monroe, and their youngest son Jonah is a high school junior with Richland Virtual Academy. A Rotator Cuff Opens Doors Seven years ago, Jeff underwent rotator cuff surgery. His surgeon advised him to start running to get some exercise. Jeff began by running a mile a day. Later he started running 5K races and really enjoyed it. Jeff was gradual in his running and added a few 10K races. When he ran a few half marathons, he was hooked. Jeff’s son was a student at LA Tech and asked his dad to run a 5K to raise money for St. Jude. That was the beginning of Jeff’s serious running career to raise funds for others. Jeff’s first marathon was the Twin City Marathon Monroe/West Monroe and was run on November 6, 2022. That was the same day that Hillary had died 26 years earlier. Jeff ran 26.2 miles that day in her honor. The money that he paid and raised for the Willpower Foundation benefitting St. Jude lit a spark. Although initially after running that race he believed that he would never run that distance 120 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

again, that changed when someone at St. Jude found out about his running for Hillary. Jeff was invited to run the St. Jude/Rock ’n Roll Marathon in Nashville, Tennessee. He ran then and he has never stopped running. Jeff runs most of his races as a St. Jude Hero. When he was trying to qualify for the Boston Marathon, he missed the qualifying time by 7 minutes. Jessica Casale and Jennifer DePalma with St. Jude suggested that he apply to be a St. Jude Hero. There are only 5 spots available on the St. Jude Team in the Boston Marathon and those are selected from literally thousands of applications. In spite of the odds, Jeff applied and then went through the interview process. The deadline to be notified was November 1st but Jeff heard nothing. “Then on Wednesday, November 6 (Hillary’s death date), I got a phone call from Jessica and Whitney (my two St. Jude reps) telling me congratulations on being selected for the 2025 Boston Marathon St. Jude Team!” Jeff remembers. “Again, November 6th!” Jeff says that for years that was a day that he dreaded and called “death day.” Over the past few years, he believes that God has redeemed that day for him through his running to help others – transforming it into what he now calls a “life day.” To date he has run three of the world major marathons including the New York, Chicago, and Boston marathons. This year he will be running in 3 other world majors – the Tokyo Marathon, London Marathon, and the Berlin Marathon. Locally he is part of a group of runners who call themselves the NELA Road Warriors. Several of them ran the St. Jude Memphis Marathon with Jeff in 2025. Their team raised over $26,000 for St. Jude and their goal is to double that in 2026. Family and Faith – Bedrocks Throughout the years Jeff and Marty have experienced the challenges and rewards that life brings. Jeff’s father passed away when he was only 42-years old. The couple lost their daughter Hillary. Marty’s parents, Dock and Trudy Hill, both died of cancer several years ago. Jeff says, “Marty’s parents always treated me

like I was their son, not son-in-law. Her sister Leah Hill Erikson and husband George Erikson have been such a blessing to us as well, and they have been huge encouragers in my running journey!” Right before Christmas in 2023, Marty was diagnosed with breast cancer. As at all times before, the two trusted God. Marty was successfully treated at Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge. “She is now cancer free, and we still make trips every six months to the Woman’s Hospital for checkups, but my wife is a cancer survivor!” Jeff says. “All praise be to God! She has always been a quiet fighter, and she is the best of us!”

Jeff’s “other family” is the family of believers at Start Baptist. He says his congregation is an incredible group who have taught him as much as he has taught them. Jeff is grateful for their patience and encouragement through the years that he has worked with them. The church has grown as has the Start community. “We are blessed with incredible deacons and Bible study teachers; our ministry teams serve the Lord by serving people with love and compassion,” Jeff says. “We have an incredible staff, as well. We all work very well together, and we challenge each other to strive for deeper and stronger relationships with the Lord.” Jeff and his congregation strive to connect, to love, and to serve. As he explains, “We are connected to God and to one another; we love God by loving people; we serve God by serving people.” Their purpose is admirable, and their faith is sustaining. Mahatma Gandhi (1869 – 1948) once wrote, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” That lesson is one that Jeff has learned as he has allowed serving others to become a central theme in his own life. The Start community – and all of us – are fortunate to have him working among us. For his dedication to service through his faith, Jeff Thomas is the January 2026 Bayou Icon. As Jeff Thomas prepares for two major international marathons in 2026, he is running with a purpose—raising critical funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. His London Marathon goal is $10,000, with more than $4,800 already raised toward the May 1, 2026 deadline; donations can be made at fundraising.stjude.org/goto/jeffthomas-london2026. Jeff will also run the Berlin Marathon with a fundraising goal of $7,500 to be met by October 1, 2026, and contributions can be made at fundraising.stjude.org/ goto/jeffthomas-berlin2026. Supporters may also search “St. Jude Hero” and enter Jeff Thomas’s name to donate to any of his races and help ensure families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food.

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Fashion Fusion ’26, 15 Years of Serving Northeast Louisiana

Where Dance Meets Design

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ASHION,TRAVEL, AND PHILANTHROPY take center stage at Fashion Fusion ’26: Where Dance Meets Design, an unforgettable evening celebrating style from around the globe while supporting a meaningful cause close to home. Set for Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Monroe Civic Center, this highly anticipated event invites the community to “take off” on a one-of-a-kind journey blending food, fashion, and entertainment—all in support of the Cancer Foundation League. Guests will enjoy an immersive experience inspired by iconic fashion capitals including London, Paris, Milan, and New York, discovering favorite looks and creative influences from around the world. Through dynamic runway presentations and captivating performances, Fashion Fusion ’26 brings together the elegance of global design with the energy of dance, creating

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a night that is both visually stunning and purpose-driven. This year’s event also marks a significant milestone, celebrating 100 years of Delta Air Lines, which was born at the Monroe Airport. The centennial theme adds a special layer of history and pride to the evening, honoring Monroe’s connection to aviation while symbolically reflecting the event’s spirit of travel and exploration. At its heart, Fashion Fusion is about community and compassion. Proceeds from the event benefit the Cancer Foundation League, helping provide critical patient services for loved ones, neighbors, and friends facing cancer. By attending or sponsoring Fashion Fusion ’26, guests are directly supporting programs that make a meaningful difference for individuals and families throughout our region. The community is encouraged to join

in supporting this important mission. Sponsorship opportunities are available and can be arranged by contacting the Cancer Foundation League at 301 Hall Street, Monroe, Louisiana 71201, or by calling (318) 460-1006. Sponsorships offer a unique opportunity to align with a beloved local event while demonstrating a commitment to compassionate care and community service. Tables and individual tickets will be available for purchase through Eventbrite beginning in February, making it easy to secure your place at one of Monroe’s most stylish and impactful nights of the year. Mark your calendar, gather your friends, and prepare for an evening where creativity takes flight. Fashion Fusion ’26 promises a celebration of global style, local history, and heartfelt giving—proving that when dance meets design, the result is truly unforgettable.

Celebrating Art, Community, and Creative Possibility

At Réveillon A Night For The Arts

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N NORTHEAST LOUISIANA, CREATIVITY is part of our everyday life. It shows up in the stories we tell, the music we enjoy, the images that capture our eye, and the artists who create here—out of a deep love for home. The arts help define who we are as a region, and when they are supported, our communities’ benefit. Réveillon was created as a new, enjoyable way to champion the arts across Northeast Louisiana—bringing people together to celebrate creativity while also strengthening the systems that support it. As the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council serves artists and communities across twelve parishes, the work extends far beyond any single event. It’s about cultivating opportunities, encouraging creative expression, and ensuring that the arts remain accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. Arts access equals a thriving region. When creativity is visible and supported, it enhances connection, pride, and possibility. It provides places where people can gather, reflect, and

imagine what’s next. For artists, access means opportunity—opportunities to be seen, to grow, and to sustain creative practices close to home. For communities, it means cultural vitality that enriches daily life. Funds raised through Réveillon allow the Arts Council to continue its mission of nurturing a vibrant regional arts culture. Through support, promotion, and education a strong, connected arts ecosystem recognizes, celebrates and expands local talent throughout Northeast Louisiana. At a time when public funding for the arts continues to shift, community partnership has never been more important. Réveillon represents that partnership in action. Réveillon’s spirit of renewal is rooted in celebration—of art, of creativity, and of the people who believe in both. It reflects an understanding that the arts are not separate from community life, but central to it. By supporting Réveillon, guests are investing in a future where creativity continues to flourish across our region.

This inaugural event marks the beginning of a new tradition—one that honors the arts while building lasting support for the work that happens year-round. When we come together to support the arts, we’re not just funding programs—we’re strengthening community, building connections, and ensuring that creativity remains a vibrant part of the future of Northeast Louisiana. Strengthening our cultural community with a Réveillon sponsorship (at press time) are: Scott Powerline & Utility Equipment, Mid-South Extrusion, Century Next Bank, Gilley Enterprises, Origin Bank, Joe Holyfield, Commercial Capital Bank, VCOM, hiTech Computers, Complete Cardiovascular Center, Homeland Bank, John Rea Realty, BayouLife, Courtyard on Cotton, Jessica Rainwater-Grigson, James R. Walker, Ruston Cultural District, Choice Brands, Marsala Beverage, King Spring Water, KNOE-TV8, and KEDM.

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Style, Service, & Community Heather Grant Joins John Rea Realty

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OR HEATHER GRANT, HOME HAS ALWAYS BEEN MONROE. Born in West Monroe and raised locally her entire life, Heather’s deep Louisiana roots have shaped not only who she is but how she serves others. Today, she steps confidently into the world of real estate with John Rea Realty, bringing with her years of design talent, sales experience, and an unwavering commitment to her community. Family, Foundations, and the Drive to Succeed Heather and her husband, GG Grant, have built a full and busy life in Monroe. Together, they own Shell Chiropractic and Functional Designs, all while raising their three children. Heather credits her upbringing for the fierce independence and work ethic that drive her today. “I was raised by my parents to be an independent woman, and I took that to heart,” she says. It’s also a value she’s passing on to her children: nothing worthwhile is handed to you—you earn it through hard work and grit. Functional Designs: Creating Beautiful, Purposeful Spaces Before stepping into real estate, Heather launched Functional Designs—born out of her love for “bringing life to a space.” After more than a decade in the sales and corporate world, she felt called to explore her creative side. Functional Designs focuses on residential styling and decorating—whether it’s refreshing an established home, helping someone style a new build, or guiding clients through remodels and add-ons. A Natural Transition Into Real Estate After 15 years in sales, Heather realized just how much she missed the hustle, connection, and energy that comes from helping people. Decorating filled a creative void, but she still longed for the social and service-oriented environment that fueled her passion. Real estate became the perfect blend of both worlds. Heather joining John Rea Realty feels like the right move at the right time. The company’s strong community presence and its commitment to serving NELA, aligned perfectly with Heather’s values. With knowledge of interior trends and what buyers are looking for, Heather offers clients insight that goes far beyond the listing. Whether someone is staging a home or looking for the right space to make their own, Heather’s eye for design becomes an invaluable asset. Rooted in Community, Motivated by Service Heather’s love for Northeast Louisiana runs deep. She praises the region for its generosity, involvement, and the special “small town feel” that makes it unlike anywhere else. To her, this community is more than a place—it’s family. And now, she gets to help others plant their own roots here. She wants clients to know she is here to serve them fully—with transparency, dedication, and genuine enthusiasm. And for those who want an extra edge? Heather is continuing Functional Designs alongside her real estate career. That means clients have the unique opportunity to style, stage, or personalize their home with someone who understands both aesthetics and the market. Excited for What’s Ahead Heather Grant is stepping into her new chapter with energy, passion, and a clear vision: to help people find the spaces where their own stories can unfold. With her background in design, her years of experience in sales, and her lifelong love for Northeast Louisiana, she’s ready to make a meaningful impact at John Rea Realty—and within the community she calls home.

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Kim Lolley

Timeless Southern Charm

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SPENT MY SUMMERS IN FORT NECESSITY AT MY grandmothers’ homes, watching them sew on their Singer footpedal machines. They lived an hour away from me, but only ten minutes apart from each other, which made those visits feel like a world of creativity I could step right into. I can still see the cutting board laid across the bed and that bright red pincushion brimming with pins. Both of my grandmothers loved to sew, and I loved to watch them. Their hands moved with such precision and grace, working the fabric with a fluid rhythm. Even my dolls had matching outfits, lovingly created by their hands. Those summers filled me with memories stitched in love and sparked a lifelong appreciation for the art of dressmaking. As a little girl, I was always mesmerized by the way women carried themselves in dresses. I adored the elegance of television icons like June Cleaver and Marion Cunningham, who managed their homes in pearls and polished dresses. To me, dresses symbolized beauty and ease—you didn’t need to fuss over an outfit. One piece, a pair of pearls, shoes, and you were ready to step out the door. That sense of timeless grace stayed with me. But when it came time to choose a career, I followed another dream close to my heart: nursing. For over 25 years, I worked as a registered nurse. My years in nursing gave me discipline and an eye for detail—qualities I now carry into every design. Just as every step in patient care mattered, every seam, hem, and fabric choice carries that same level of care and precision. Nursing also taught me resilience and compassion. For over two decades, I had the privilege of being with people in their most vulnerable moments, and that shaped the way I see the world. Today, I carry that same heart into my designs—wanting every woman who slips on one of my dresses to feel seen and beautiful in her own skin. After becoming an empty nester, I took the advice of my family and finally followed a dream I had tucked away with the memories of my grandmothers. I dusted off their old patterns and began experimenting with ways to add a modern twist. And so, Kim Lolley Designs was born. Starting a clothing line in my “later” years was both challenging and rewarding. Coming from the medical field, I had so much to learn about business. There are still days I ask myself, “How did I do that?” But every challenge has brought growth, and every new step has been worth it. Along the way, I’ve made friends with other entrepreneurs, traveled all over with my clothing line, and discovered a joy in connecting with women who share my love for timeless style. I design dresses with a feminine silhouette and classic style— pieces that are meant to last, not fade with the trends. I truly believe in the saying, look good, feel good, and my hope is that every woman who wears one of my dresses feels confident and radiant. Looking ahead, I’m excited to launch new styles in 2026, along with a more casual line of athleisure wear that’s as soft as butter and as comfortable as it is cute. This journey has been stitched together with memories, discipline, resilience, and passion. And just like the women who inspired me, I want my designs to tell a story of timeless grace—one dress at a time. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JANUARY 2026 125

Found Truths NEW BEGINNINGS article by Reverend RB Moore

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eorge Angus and Catherine McDonald, of Scotland, dated for 44 years! Finally, when George was 68 years old, and Catherine was 60, George proposed marriage. After Catherine said, “Yes,” she was asked why George waited so long to propose. She replied, “Well, he is a bit shy, you know.” As we begin a new year, hopefully, we won’t take 44 years to make a new beginning. Yet if the truth be told, all of us open new chapters from time to time, not just at the start of a new year. As we embark on a new journey on occasion, there are a few eternal realities to keep in mind which may keep us on track. For instance, a fresh start affords us the opportunity to make a fair assessment of where we stand. Beginning again invites us to honestly evaluate our station in life. Along this line of thought, a man once stepped up on an old set of scales at a drugstore. The old scales claimed to measure one’s weight, and to offer a card with one’s fortune foretold, or one’s personality described. As the man stood on the scales, his wife looked at the card and read it out loud. “You are a charming personality, a leader of men, a citizen of high character, intelligent, and physically attractive.” Peering at the scale, the wife then commented, “Goodness! It has your

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weight wrong, too!” The point being, don’t be misled by false information. Let’s make a fair assessment of where we stand. Here’s another reality to keep us on track. A brand-new start invites us to set a realistic goal, which moves us forward, regardless of the obstacles. For example, did you hear about the time the factory belonging to the famous inventor Thomas Alva Edison caught fire one night? It happened in December of 1914 when Edison was 67 years old. As the flames burned out of control, he told his son, “Go get your mom! Tell her to get her friends and come quickly! They’ll never see another fire like this as long as they live!” Then, before the crack of dawn, Edison called his employees together and declared, “We’re rebuilding!” Edison was motivated by a worthy cause. He was caught up in a vision of what the future holds. A new beginning comes with the possibility of setting an achievable goal; a goal with an intrinsic motivation which leads us forward, regardless of the obstacles. Here’s another reality that may guide us on our new voyage. God’s creative process joins us as we launch out in faith to do something new. We see this reality happening time and time again in Biblical history. Consider these examples carefully for a moment.

We see God begins to create a new nation as Abraham moved from Ur to the Land of Promise. God’s creative power leads Joshua to break down the walls of Jericho with the marching of feet and the blasting of trumpets. God’s creative Spirit breaks through in Christ as five loaves of bread and two fish are multiplied to feed the hungry. Then, with the sound of a mighty wind, God’s Spirit begins to create the church on the Day of Pentecost. By way of application, God’s creative Spirit arrives on the scene as we move like Abraham to a new school, a new job, a new house, a new town or a new stage in life. As in the days of Joshua, God’s Spirit appears with us as we break down the walls that prevent God’s people from making progress at work or at play. The creative presence of God joins us, such as in the time of Jesus, when we feed our hungry family or the poorest among us. As on the Day of Pentecost, God’s creative Spirit empowers us as we use our spiritual gifts to strengthen the people of God. This brings us to Genesis 1:1, which tells us, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” It seems, God’s power has started creating without us. It’s time for us to catch up, and to join our creative minds with God, as we make a new beginning.

A Legacy Built on Compassion & Generosity

Honoring the Visionaries Who Strengthen Our Community Through Planned Giving

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HE FOOD BANK OF NORTHEAST Louisiana is proud to introduce the Mintz Planned Giving Society, a special group honoring individuals who make legacy gifts to ensure a hunger-free future for our community. This society brings together caring individuals who share a vision of creating lasting change and ending hunger across Northeast Louisiana. The Mintz family of Louisiana has a long-standing tradition of generosity and community leadership. In 1996, Saul and Melinda Mintz founded the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana with the help of other compassionate community members. What began as a heartfelt idea has grown into a powerful network of hunger relief partners serving more than 30,000 people each month across 12 parishes. Today, the Mintz Planned Giving Society continues that legacy by recognizing those who make planned gifts that strengthen the Food Bank’s ability to serve for

generations to come. Planned gifts—such as including the Food Bank in your will, trust, or estate plan— are more than financial contributions; they are investments in the future of our community. These gifts provide resources that allow the Food Bank to plan ahead, expand programs, and respond quickly to emergencies like natural disasters or economic downturns. They ensure that children, seniors, and families have consistent access to nutritious food, creating a healthier, stronger community for years to come. The impact of a planned gift to the Food Bank is profound. It means a child will have breakfast before school, a senior will receive groceries to stretch a fixed income, and a family facing hardship will find hope instead of hunger. Your legacy gift becomes a lifeline for thousands of neighbors who rely on the Food Bank every month. As Melinda Mintz says:

“If you want to make a difference in the future, in the lives of so many people from children to seniors, there’s probably no better organization than the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana.” When you include the Food Bank in your estate plans, you join a community of visionaries who believe that no one should go hungry. Your planned gift will nourish generations to come and ensure that the Food Bank remains a strong, reliable source of help for those in need. For more information about planned giving options, please call the Food Bank or visit foodbanknela.org/legacysociety. Have you already included the Food Bank in your estate plans? Please let us know by contacting Sarah Hoffman at 318-322-3567 or shoffman@fbnela.org. Your commitment today can help build a future where every family has food on the table and hope in their hearts.

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Fishing With Kenny

CONTROL WHAT YOU CAN, PREPARE FOR WHAT YOU CAN’T article by KE NNY COVI NGTON

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started fishing tournaments in 1983. I was sixteen years old and all I knew was I wanted to catch as many fish as I could and try to figure out how to compete and win against my much older more experienced competitors. The learning curve was a steep one but the one thing I had then, and it still burns just as passionately, was a desire to get better and make better on the water decisions. While my fishing mentors were numerous: my father, my uncle Lannie Dortch, Mr. C.P. George, Poochie Young, the late Glynn Blankenship just to name a few, while I was picking their brains on the right way to do things on the water, it was through my own trial and error that I figured out what I needed to do equipment wise, while off of it. This process hasn’t changed over the years as I still try to talk to as many anglers as possible to learn tweaks and tricks, not just about fishing but about everything else that surrounds the sport. Knowledge is power. My dad used to call me a “tackle junkie” because of the time I would spend making sure everything was the way I thought it should be lines rods, reels, baits, leaving little room for error while on the water. I have been called “obsessive” when it comes to my preparation for a tournament but this attitude that has allowed me to be as successful as I am. There are no shortcuts to sustained success and luck can’t be your determining factor. In order to become better at this sport, you have to control the variables you can control and prepare for the ones you can’t. But this isn’t just limited to lines, lures, rods, and reels. It goes much deeper than that. Here is an example of what I am talking about. In all the years I have fished tournaments, the only time I have ever had to stop fishing was due to my trolling motor shaft shattering due to hitting a stump in high winds, but you know what I learned from that? I started keeping a spare trolling motor in my boat. An uncontrolled variable became a controlled one with a simple decision. Call it a lesson learned. What are some other variables about which I am talking? What about having the proper clothing for fishing during the seasons of the year? I keep a large amount of clothes in my truck during the winter season because I learned early on, the more comfortable I am, the easier it is to stay on the water. Extra socks, gloves, rain suits, hand warmers, and a complete set of clothes can usually be found in my boat during the wintertime. All of this preparation is only important whenever the time comes, and you really need it. Control what you can, prepare for the rest. 128 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

When you are comfortable while on the water, the better you can focus and fish properly. If your feet are wet, or your hands are numb because you didn’t bring hand warmers or gloves, these are things you should be in control of. Do you have the necessary tools to change out a trolling motor or big engine prop? Do you have a spare for each one? It has always amazed me when I see my competitors scrambling to find the needed tools and equipment in order to fix something that shouldn’t require that much time and attention. Do you have a spare plug for the hull of your boat? Do you have the tools needed to do wiring maintenance on your livewells, graphs or trolling motor? Do you have an extra life jacket? Rainsuit? What about heavy duty weigh-in bag in case you need a way to fill up your livewells if your pumps stop working or if you have to bail water from your boat? All these things are actual items I have been asked for over the years when I would stop and try to help someone. As you can see, and many people fail to realize this, there are more variables that can be controlled with just a little bit of thought and preparation, but the same ideology can be used when handling the uncontrolled ones. I can’t control if it is going to rain or not, but I can control if I am prepared if it does. I can’t control if I am going to run further up a creek arm than I planned but I can make sure I have enough gas to do so if the day calls for it. There is no excuse for running out of gas in your boat. None. Are your trailer tires in good condition? Do the lights work on your boat trailer? Does your boat meet all the state requirements to be considered legal while on the water? Fire extinguisher? Float cushion? Do you have spare keys for your big motor? All these things anglers can control but often overlook. So, as you can see, there is a lot more to the sport of bass fishing than choosing the right lure, line, or fishing area. In order to be successful on the water, you have to consider, maintain, and work on the things you can control off of the water. Someone once said, “it’s the little things that lead to the big things but by taking care of the little things, they usually don’t become big problems.” Oh, how right they are. Well, it looks like we have run out of time and space for another month! I hope this new year is full of memories and good vibes as well as great fishing for all. Be careful out on the water and enjoy the offerings Mother Nature continues to give unselfishly to us. Catch one for me and I will see you next month!

WINTER WHITES This winter, pull out the looks in classic winter whites. From velvet dresses to cozy sweaters, these chic pieces are available at local retailers.

KIM LOLLEY DESIGNS This dress blends classic sophistication with contemporary flair. Crafted from luxurious velvet, it boasts a stunning A-line silhouette, drop waist and a collared neckline. The detachable belt cinches the waist, adding a tailored touch. Add a beautiful powder blue coat to complete the look.

Model: Posey Clark Photography by Kelly Moore Clark Hair and Makeup by Barrie Brennan

MATERIAL THINGS This ivory sweater features delicate diamond designs accented with pearls at each point for an elevated, feminine touch. Paired with the Talha Pant in a soft cream hue, the silky wide-leg silhouette drapes effortlessly with an elastic waistband, side pockets, and subtle slits for a polished yet relaxed look. Accessorize with gold hoops and a lattice cuff. *Chair available at Material Things

HEMLINE MONROE Stay sweet in this gorgeous strapless romper. Featuring a sculpted skirt and charming pockets, this romper is your go-to piece for a playful look. Pair it with these gold, mid heel stilettos, rhinestone necklace and petal earrings.

F E AT U R E

Low Impact Living A NEW YEAR INVITES MORE THAN PERSONAL RESOLUTIONS - IT CALLS FOR MINDFUL CHOICES THAT BENEFIT THE WORLD AROUND US. THIS GUIDE EXPLORES SIMPLE, LOCAL WAYS NORTHEAST LOUISIANANS CAN LIVE MORE SUSTAINABLY AND HELP CREATE A HEALTHIER FUTURE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME. By Vanelis Rivera

WE ARE TOLD EVERY NEW YEAR IS an opportunity to reflect. Perhaps, we go through the past year sifting through the highs and lows, mentally logging them like items to be shelved. Some of us may revel in resolutions, betterment and improvement on our minds enthusiastically signaling us into a semblance of change. Though we know every second of our lives can be a figurative “new year,” there is something about a transition period, a collective celebration urging us to unfold our best self. But renewal is not always self-seeking. What else can be improved in our lives besides us? If we allow ourselves to turn our attention to the world around us, we may find that betterment and improvement can be (should be) collective. In a time when the Big—big cars, big homes, big parties, big dreams, big meals—crowds around us, perhaps we can seek balance by making conscientious choices that contribute to a healthier environment. After all, a healthier planet can only guarantee that every New Year moving forward holds the promise of a sustainable future for us and our loved ones. The following guide offers small and simple steps that can help conserve and keep the marvelous environment that we call home in Northeast Louisiana.

EAT MORE VEGGIES!

Most of us grew up hearing that we should eat our veggies from a parent, grandparent, or well-meaning auntie. But this healthy shift can also significantly impact the environment. Each of the steps in the food production process, such as growth, processing, transport, and distribution of food creates greenhouse gases. These gases trap the sun’s heat, consequently contributing to dire changes in our climate. According to the United Nations, close to “a third of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions is linked to food.” The main food responsible for most greenhouse gas emissions is, unfortunately, animal-based 132 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

foods, “especially red meat, dairy, and farmed shrimp.” The contributing variables to such high emissions include tree cutting for grassland creation, the emission of methane from cattle, and nitrous oxide emitting from cattle waste. To put it into perspective, 1 kilogram of beef produces 70.6 kilograms of greenhouse gases; meanwhile, 1 kilogram of vegetables produces 0.7 kilograms of greenhouse gases. Diminishing our meat consumption and adding more color on our plates is a small kindness we can impart to ourselves and our ecosystem. Dana Milford, owner of For His Temple Family Foods, wants us to know that we do not have to forgo animal fats or protein (including protein rich veggies like legumes) at any meal. “Our bodies need balance and that means some of all of it. Having healthy animal fats help us digest and absorb the nutrients.” Milford prepares her veggies with some “good healthy animal fat” like butter, ghee, or bacon grease. “The classic southern style of preparation works for so many veggies,” she says, naming green beans, rutabaga, carrots, and sweet potatoes. To prepare, chop some bacon, render it until partially cooked, then add chopped onion and cook until it softens. Finally, add your veggie or veggies of choice, seasoning, and voilà! Feel free to add a “splash” of homemade chicken or vegetable stock! “So simple. So tasty. So nutritious.” “Nothing beats a fresh veggie pulled from the garden and cooked for supper,” says Milford, who currently grows a variety of vegetables at home including swiss chard, tomatoes, yellow squash, and okra.” For those interested in home gardening, the key is to, “Start small, but just get started,” she says. “You’ve got nothing to lose but a few seeds and everything to gain.” We are fortunate to live in a climate that eases the growth of a variety of produce per season. “Tray a new plant each season,” Milford suggests. You may find a veggie that surprises you in its flavor and versatility, as Milford did with bell peppers. “As a child and most of my adult life I was never a fan. The flavor was too strong, in my opinion.” But when she began cooking with a variety of bell peppers—red, yellow, and orange—she began to appreciate them. Now, she has expanded her pepper selections to all kinds, such as sweet minis, Bullhorn, Cubanelle, and Shishitos!

SUPPORT LOCAL FARMERS

Convenience comes at a cost— economically, environmentally, and socially. And while the movement to support local farmers and opting for locally grown products is gaining traction, it can surely

become a better integrated norm. There are many ways to tap into regional growers— visit farmer’s markets or ask your local organic grocer about their regional offerings. By turning to those in our community offering more nutritious alternatives than big food systems, we can better ensure sustainability for our region. One such local farm is located in the hilly woods of Downsville, Louisiana. The Underwood family of six, own and operate 3 Board FArm, a first-generation regenerative farm that sells pasture raised meat products! “All of our animals are raised on pasture and move around the farm strategically to benefit the animals and the soil,” informs Taylor Underwood. Their feed is locally milled from O’Neal’s Feed Store in Ruston and their animals are humanely processed at local processors. A common misconception of regionally sourced meat is that it tastes similar to grocery store products; however, Underwood informs that, “If the meat is raised properly, the taste will be tremendously better and much more nutrient dense for your health.” Interested consumers can find their meat products—pork, chicken, beef, eggs, and raw milk—at their farm store in Downsville, Fiesta On Eighteenth, For His Temple Family Foods, and Warsaw General Store in Delhi. “Local farmers are the backbone of America,” says Underwood, “Our food system is very volatile and local farmers will help secure their local communities with food in case there is ever another disruption in our food system.”

CONSIDER SECOND HAND

We are consumers, no doubt about it. But that doesn’t mean we cannot be mindful of how and what we purchase. We live in a world of excess; yet, so many people cannot purchase or access basic necessities. Our planet is also gravely impacted. A 2020 article published by the Columbia Climate School noted that Americans produce “25 percent more waste than usual between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.” In fact, a 2015 study published in the Journal of Industrial Ecology, “found that the production and use of household goods and services was responsible for 60 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.” These stark realities should force us to pause and evaluate our spending habits, carefully considering, once again, the cost of convenience. Thankfully, Northeast Louisiana offers a plethora of quaint and whimsical thrift stops, from the carefully curated to the delightfully diverse. Adrienne LaFrance-Wells, Downtown Main Street Director at City of West Monroe, is a proud steward and advocate for Downtown

West Monroe, commonly referred to as Antique Alley. This strip of shops boasts over 80 small businesses including antique shops, boutiques, restaurants, and specialty shops. “Our downtown has continuously grown and evolved over the years while keeping true to the nostalgic charm and character. Browsing the district is always such a joy because every visit feels a little different. There’s a wonderful blend of diverse offerings to discover.” Each shop has its own personality, and some days LaFrance-Wells can go from “flipping through vintage treasures” to “discovering a handcrafted item that was made right here in Louisiana.” Recently, she purchased three suits downtown that originally came from Saks Fifth Avenue. “One was from the brand Escada and two were St. John suits,” she says, adding, “The designer quality of those pieces is timeless and the discovery of finding those pieces was truly thrilling.” Whether it’s vintage clothing, antique furniture, or repurposed décor, LaFrance-Wells finds second hand shopping not only environmentally responsible, but an “incredibly meaningful way to shop,” particularly because every item carries a story. “You’re giving those pieces a new life, keeping them out of landfills and reducing the environmental footprint that comes with the manufacturing of new products.” Hartley Waldrop Arendsen, owner of The Good Daze, seconds many of these sentiments. Her appreciation for secondhand clothing began at a young age when she would thrift with her mom, and from there began selling vintage clothes in high school, which blossomed into her current business. What began as a hobby swiftly turned into a unique and fun personal style which she now carefully curates in her store. “Fashion is your personality,” she says, and as a unique and creative person she considers piecing vintage clothing together an artform. “Buying second hand helps me put a twist on things.” Through her style and the clothing offerings at her store, she hopes to dismantle misconceptions about vintage clothes, that they are “grandma” or “not trendy and not cute.” Waldrop Arendsen knows her audience and what you’ll find on her clothing racks are fun, vibrant, and nostalgic pieces that stand out from the crowd. Ultimately, shopping second hand is also shopping “small,” as LaFrance-Wells says, adding, when you shop at any locally-owned business, “...your dollars are recirculated in our communities. This supports local families, creates jobs, and ensures the sales tax from those goods stays right here for our community’s benefit.”

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DITCH PLASTIC

Plastic permeates most of our lives, and for years we have been warned of the plastic waste problem that has overwhelmed landfills, oceans, and even our bodies (by way of microplastics). Understandably, this colossal problem seems impossible to overcome. However, there are practical changes that we can make in order to reduce our reliance on plastic materials and help promote a world beyond plastic. A 2024 study published by Proceedings of the National Academy of Science (PNAS) revealed that, “...water from single-use plastic bottles can contain from 10 to 100 times more nano-plastics than previously estimated.” Just as concerning are the findings from a 2023 report from the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health, that found, “one 134 JANUARY 2026 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

million plastic bottles of water are sold every minute globally.” That resulted in 25 million tons of plastic waste in 2021. That’s to say, go grab a reusable water bottle, cup, and to-go container wherever you can find them. Of course, shop local first. At the Muffin Tin, customers can choose from an array of brands, styles, and sizes. With Swig Life insulated drinkware, you’ll find fun, funky designs in a holder-friendly shape. Doublewalled, vacuum-sealed, and copper-plated means that your cold or warm drink will be maintained to your liking for hours. Saying goodbye to plastic bottles never looked sleeker than choosing a Corkcicle canteenstyle water bottle. Each is designed with easy-grip flat sides and leak-proof, screw on lid. There is also a Corkcicle “hybrid canteen” made of allergen free glass and surrounded by an insulated steel base. My Bougie Bottle

collection is also delightfully stylish, bottles featuring an easy one-hand Flip ‘n’ Sip Lid, two bottle-length BPA-free straws, and a durable pipe cleaner. At Material Things, look for the Bloomingville spoon set. This set of serving spoons showcases, “intricately carved horn with a dark finish in a printed drawstring bag.” Perfect for parties and gatherings! In the spirit of reusability, this shop offers a few products with such intricate containers that are begging to find other uses. For instance, Traditions de France artisanal candy comes in charming glassware and decorative tins, perfect for storage, display, or gifting vessels. The same can be said about the store’s collection of Trudon candles. Many candles can be reused. It’s as easy as placing a glass vessel with residue wax in the freezer, and once the wax hardens it’s easy to pluck out with any utensil. But Trudon glass, well, it’s not only hand-crafted in Tuscany, but also shaped like champagne buckets. In other words, do not toss out. Once again, repurpose these stunning jars to propagate plants, as decorative lighting (think twinkle lights), or to hold shareable snacks. More involved, but worthwhile, repurposing projects to diminish plastic arrive during the holidays and special events by way of decoration making. Katherine Elizabeth Ashley, owner of The Makery, has created a space that promotes and inspires a variety of workshops and art classes. Not only does crafting your own decorations allow you to express your creativity, it is also an opportunity to foster special moments between you and your family or friends. Ashley has been crafting for as long as she can remember. “I have always enjoyed making something out of anything I could find. Ever since opening, it has helped me come up with fun and creative workshops for people to attend to try new things,” she says. Some of her main projects include decorating shop windows for downtown events. In the past, she has used Italian crepe paper to make DIY floral arrangements. “I personally love to go to thrift stores to find something to create out of.” Many of her ideas have come from upcycling books, and one of her go-tos is Nifty Gifty: Mini Crafts with Major Charm by Alexa Pedrero. Scrap materials abound, probably right in your closet, so lean into your sense of fun and allow yourself to carve out some creative time. “Also do it with others. Invite some friends over or make crafts with your kids,” recommends Ashley, whose favorite quote is, “The act of creating something is always more important than the result.”

B AYOUKID Z

When Dreams Change Adjusting When Life Makes You Change Lanes article by Cindy G. Foust

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appy New Year to our BayouLife readers as I sit in the comfort of my comfy chair, drinking a cup of coffee and reflecting on 2025. This month, as I have historically done and what you might expect, I have written about goal setting, goal achieving, teaching your children to set goals, or making and adhering to New Year’s resolutions. Instead, I am going to write this month on a parenting lesson we learned, that pertains to one of our children setting and achieving their goals. As is the case with most columns I write, I have to build you a clock to tell you what time it is, and most of the time I find myself halfway through the column and I don’t know whether I’m scratching that watch or… well, you know the rest of the saying, so here goes. When I was growing up in Butcher’s Hollow, (I didn’t really grow up there as many of you know, I just love the way that sounds and I love Loretta Lynn, so I’m borrowing it for the purpose of this column) we had a pretty idyllic life. I hesitate to use the word “charmed,” but anyone that grew up with me knows there was a certain peaceful, comfortable existence that we just don’t share today. In my day, there wasn’t much goal setting or big dreaming going on. Sure, I dreamed of finishing college and getting married and starting a family, sharing most of those same dreams with everyone else in my happy-go-lucky life. And sure, I dreamed of being a Lady Techster, what girl didn’t want to be Kim Mulkey (and still do with all her cool bejeweled outfits) and be on the team that won a national championship in women’s basketball? But, since my high school team won less than five games over three years, that dream probably wasn’t ever going to be a reality. As I have gotten older, I continue to set goals and dream big dreams, and I’ve tried my best to instill that same accountability in my children. Scott and I have tried to encourage them to pursue their dreams, work hard for those goals and never give up. Those are pretty basic, simple parenting qualities, right? But to me, the real parenting expertise comes when you have to support and encourage your child when they don’t reach the goal or achieve the dream they have so desperately worked for. One such time for us involved when our son had a sudden lane change while he was in college. How did we handle it? If I’m totally honest, it wasn’t very well, at first anyway. I mean,

when does your child’s dreams become your own or when do they co-mingle? What parent can’t help themselves while they watch their child work to make a 30 on their ACT (Scott says you could add both his scores and not get a 30 and I’m not even sure why that’s an important part of this story, I just thought ya’ll might be interested in that family factoid, but I’m glad Christmas has come and gone so I still get a good gift), get a sports scholarship, maintain a 4.0, or get into medical school? One day you are in one lane, going on about your business, focused and driven toward one goal, and then BAM (a word commonly used with Super Heroes) your lane changes. What to do, what to do? I can tell you, and I’m sorry to give myself a poor grade on this, but initially, I didn’t handle it well. I’m flawed, like the rest of the world, and I worried incessantly that my son was making a huge mistake. Scott, on the other hand, saw the positive and the benefits that the new direction would offer our child. The lane changed…and life went on…and everyone was okay and God’s plan for my son’s life continues to unfold, in a glorious, healthy way with a beautiful wife and the most precious grandbaby girl in the world. Did I tell y’all I was a Lulu? It was a valuable lesson for me, as a parent, a parent who continues to grow and learn from my children. A parent, like many of you, who only wants the best for her children, for them to be the best versions of themselves they can be. If, like me readers, you find yourselves deeply intertwined in the “goings-ons” of your children, cut yourself some slack, take a step back, and really evaluate your situation. Is it healthy? Are you too tangled up in the tinsel? A lot of this column is written for parents with children who are older, and in a position to start making life changing decisions. But if you have small children, use caution as you make your way into “teendom” and on into adulthood. Life is so unpredictable and try as we might, we can’t always control the direction. But we can control how we handle the change, and that my dear readers, is what I will spend the rest of my life trying to get better at. Cindy G. Foust is a wife, mom, author and blogger. You can find her blog at the alphabetmom.com for weekly columns about home life, parenting, small business stories and insight with a smidgen of literacy. Give her a like or follow on Facebook and Instagram.

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T H E K I N DS O F LOV E

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I REMEMBER, an instance that took place during the early part of my sophomore year in my biology class. It sticks out in my mind because I believe I developed a little more maturity than I previously had been experiencing. This was my first year at North High which had just been established as a consolidated high school populated by students from five different communities. The faculty was also made up from teachers of those five different schools, which meant, that we didn’t know each other well. Our biology professor had recently given us a test and was passing out the graded papers. He would call a students name and then give the proper paper to that student. When he called my name, he didn’t even look my way, I had made a good grade and he didn’t picture me as a student with much “smarts.” I must have impressed him as an average pupil from a little school nine miles north. When I raised my hand as he called my name, it was obvious to me that I was not the same guy that he thought had done so well on that test. It occurred to me that I should be

more involved in class discussions. From that time on I was a new person. As I began “my new life,” that opened many doors for me to be involved with other students and faculty members. Now, some fellow students would even ask for my help with some of their assignments. This had never happened in my “old life.” I became more involved with school activities outside the classroom, and even led chapel cheers for our athletic teams. This incident gave me a confidence that had been missing for most of my life. I like the new role better and no longer was afraid to accept new challenges. Some years later when I was a student at Davidson, prospective students for Columbia seminary were invited to the school for a day. Though I was not an athlete, I had learned to play volleyball fairly well. Following lunch, the students at the seminary would gather outside the dining room where a volleyball net had been set up. I was asked to join the game and did demonstrate some skills, causing one of the seminary players to say, “ that one can play!” Such a remark would never

ar t i c le b y PAU L L I PE o p in io n e x p re s s e d is t h a t o f t h e w r it e r

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have been uttered 10 years earlier. Perhaps God was right when he picked me to be a minister of his gospel. In my earlier years, thoughts of standing in the pulpit would fill me with fear? The change was not due to anything in me, but to the fact that when God calls, He also equips. The major lesson I learned from all of this is that God is always right. When He puts his hand on our shoulder and gives us a task, we need not fear even though our self-confidence maybe weak. It is God‘s grace that makes us sufficient. As we begin a new year, let us face life and its challenges with confidence in God. My biology professor would never have thought of me as a public figure, especially a preacher, and God made all the difference and he could make that same difference in your life as you trust him to provide all you need to do his work. God bless you and use you in the New Year.

the best in skincare

ACCORDING TO LOCAL EXPERTS

ACHIEVE A HEALTHY GLOW

With endless skincare trends and viral products flooding the market, knowing what truly works can feel overwhelming. In this article, trusted local experts, from medical spas to dermatology and plastic surgery practices, cut through the noise to share science-backed advice, effective treatments, and realistic approaches to achieving healthy, glowing skin at every stage of life.

ARTIC LE BY M E R ED I T H M C KI N N I E

H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

The Medical Spa by St. Francis Medical Group

Megan Gimber, FNP Nurse Practitioner Injector Rebecca Justice, Nurse Injector

When considering affordable skincare options, the professionals at The Medical Spa (TMS) by St. Francis Medical Group recommend ZO products. Nurse Practitioner Injector Megan Gimber and Nurse Injector Rebecca Justice solely prescribe ZO products because of the transformative results for their patients. Sticking with one brand provides consistency for The Medical Spa staff and clients, leading to better results with all services offered at the spa. Most first-time clients come into the spa without a skin regimen, instead utilizing over-the-counter (OTC) products they find on sale. Whether clients are struggling with signs of aging (fine lines and wrinkles) or even acne hormone imbalance, ZO regimens exist to address those issues. For those clients 40+, Gimber and Justice will prescribe retinols to remove dead layers of skin, promote renewal and repair, and address skin coloring and pigmentation. Clients insist the regimens are a gamechanger if done correctly and consistently. Users mention the “pretty glow” that follows treatment, saying “My skin feels like velvet, really soft and smooth.” Friends will ask, “What are you doing with your skin?” The common response is, “the ZO glow.” In consultations, Gimber and Justice emphasize the importance of washing the face morning and night. Skincare requires commitment. On initial visits, clients can

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expect a skin assessment and inquiry on your lifestyle and time commitment. For some clients, a simple 3-step ZO routine is practical; others will indulge the 10step routine. After 6 weeks, clients do a side-by-side comparison with before and after pictures, always noting a significant difference. While TMS staff respect client budgets, skincare is an investment in aging gracefully. “Prevention is a lot easier than correction,” warns Megan Gimber. “Correction takes much longer and is more expensive. Prevention is worth the investment. Microneedling is a popular procedure at TMS, with staff suggesting a series of 3 sessions 4-6 weeks apart. The basic Rejuvapen procedure utilizes a ZO accelerated serum as a base. The microneedles in the tip of the pen get below the surface of the skin into the tissue, making microchannels in the face. While clients can expect some redness and pinpoint bleeding, microneedling only requires about 24 hours of downtime. Clients see renewed cell turnover as the microchannels allow the skin to heal from within. PRP microneedling takes it a step above, utilizing client plasma in lieu of serums. Clients’ own platelet-rich plasma has growth factors in it which intensifies the results and speeds up recovery time.

The ZO 3-Step Peel is a good choice for the winter months. The moderate-depth chemical peel blends acids and retinol to exfoliate damaged skin, promote collagen, and improve tone, texture, fine lines, sun damage, melasma, and acne. Clients must be on retinol for 6 weeks prior to the procedure. The peel comes in a solution that is applied to the skin, followed by 1% retinol, and left on the face for 12+ hours. While the procedure is not painful, the client can expect 5-7 days of peeling longer downtime, but exceptional results. Another option for clients is Sculptra, a biostimulator that works by stimulating your body to produce its own collagen, essentially aging backwards. Collagen is an essential part of facial structure, along with elastin and bone, the support mechanism for the face. Collagenbuilding Sculptra results last 2 years or more, as opposed to the shorter-lived effects of traditional fillers. Sculptra is a good option for those with bone loss or significant weight loss. 312 Grammont St., Suite 406 Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: (318) 966-3772 Facebook: The Medical Spa by St. Francis Medical Group Instagram: @stfranmedspa Email: contactus@stfran.com

Hopkins Dermatology What should people know about the skincare industry? Many skincare companies have learned which ingredients sound impressive on labels, but unlike prescription drugs, cosmetic products are not required to prove clinical effectiveness before being sold. The FDA regulates cosmetics for safety and labeling, but it does not require companies to demonstrate that active ingredients penetrate the skin or work at a cellular level. Social media platforms like TikTok have become a major source of skincare information, and that can be problematic when influencers are paid to promote products without scientific backing. This creates a lot of noise and confusion for consumers. While South Korea is often portrayed as a leader in skincare, the United States has equally strong dermatologic science and research. The concern arises when consumers purchase products online or from overseas sources that may not undergo the same regulatory oversight. In my practice, we frequently see children and teens with contact dermatitis from highly active or fragranced products promoted on social media. For that reason, I encourage patients to choose dermatologist-recommended products that have undergone safety testing. Brands like CeraVe, Cetaphil, and La RochePosay are widely trusted because they incorporate ingredients used in medicalgrade skincare.

Janine Hopkins, MD, FAAD Dermatologist

Does skincare have to be expensive to be effective? Skincare does not have to be expensive to work, but formulation quality matters. You can spend very little on a product that does nothing, or modestly more on one with active ingredients that are stable and properly delivered into the skin. I respect people’s budgets, and effective skincare exists across a range of price points. Vitamin C is a great example. It’s a powerful antioxidant, but it’s notoriously difficult to formulate. It oxidizes quickly when exposed to air and light, so an effective vitamin C requires a stabilizing formulation and a delivery system that allows it to penetrate the skin. If it simply sits on the surface, it won’t provide meaningful benefit. Many physician-dispensed skincare brands invest in formulation science, stability testing, and clinical studies that are not required for over-the-counter cosmetics. Some mass-market vitamin C products may degrade quickly or lack effective delivery systems, even if vitamin C appears on the label. I personally trust many medical-grade skincare companies, including Revision Skincare. I’m also a fan of antioxidants like polyphenols and resveratrol, which help protect skin cells from oxidative stress through complementary mechanisms. Oxidative stress is a major contributor to skin aging and is influenced by environmental factors like pollution as well as diet. For patients shopping at retailers like Target, Ulta, or Sephora, Caudalie is a brand I often mention. They were early adopters of grape-derived polyphenols and resveratrol in topical skincare, making antioxidant-rich products more accessible without needing to visit a dermatologist’s office.

What are some more affordable in-office treatments? This time of year is ideal for procedures that involve downtime, since reduced sun exposure lowers the risk of complications. In my practice, we offer fractionated laser treatments, including erbium lasers, which use controlled, pixelated energy to resurface the skin. This creates microscopic zones of injury that stimulate collagen production, improve texture, repair sun damage, and promote healthier skin renewal. We also combine certain procedures with regenerative skincare adjuncts, such as topical exosome-based products. Exosomes are a growing area of interest in aesthetic and regenerative dermatology. While they are not FDA-approved drugs for cosmetic indications, some high-quality, lab-produced products are being used as topical cosmetic adjuncts following procedures like microneedling or laser resurfacing to support skin recovery. In my practice, we carefully select products we feel meet high quality and safety standards, and we apply them using controlled techniques, including a medical applicator device designed to ensure even, hygienic application. These treatments are also being explored as adjunctive options for patients experiencing hair thinning, though research in this area is still evolving. Hormones also play a significant role in skin and hair health. Estrogen decline after menopause is associated with accelerated skin aging, including up to a 30% loss of collagen in the first five years. When appropriately prescribed and carefully monitored, hormone therapy can be part of a comprehensive approach to skin, hair, and overall health. Treatment decisions are always individualized, taking into account a patient’s age, medical history, and risk factors. 2509 Broadmoor Blvd, Suite A Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: (318) 325-0600 Facebook: Hopkins Dermatology Instagram: hopkinsdermatology_ www.hopkinsdermatology.com

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dull looking skin. Microneedling can be enhanced with PRP or combined with more aggressive laser treatments and injection of stem cells harvested from your fat, which, says Natalie, “would require Dr. Mickel’s participation, and is one of the advantages of having him downstairs.”

H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

Mickel Plastic Surgery For almost 30 years, medical aesthetician Natalie Todd has built long-term relationships with clients at Mickel Plastic Surgery with a holistic approach centered on honesty and trust. The sheer volume of skincare information online can be overwhelming. Natalie helps her clients cut through the noise by taking the time to educate them on proper skincare options and realistic outcomes with a traditional in-person consultation. Online skin surveys and do-it-yourself experimentation are no match for her hands-on approach. In order to find the correct products and treatment for your skin, you need a local, licensed professional. Our skin not only changes with the seasons of life, but also with the seasons of the year. What worked in our 20’s may not work in our 30’s, or if we are pregnant, or if we are post-menopausal or if we spend all day in the sun. Moreover, living in Louisiana, we all know it can be cold and dry today and 90 degrees and humid tomorrow. Natalie helps clients navigate these environmental challenges as well as the transitions of life. The skin is the largest organ in our body. Investing in it early pays dividends in the longrun. Natalie insists, “We take care of our hearts, livers, and other internal organs. We have to find a way to take care of the most visible organ in our body.” Taking care of your skin begins at home. “We can only do so much in the office which is why we spend so much time teaching clients to do their part at home,” says Natalie. For starters, regular use of an appropriate pH balanced cleansing regimen to exfoliate dead surface cells,

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and Retin-A or retinols to stimulate collagen production are key components of her skin care program. Sun protection with a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF30, and antioxidants (vitamins C, E, A, peptides and resveratrol) can neutralize skin damage from the sun, prevent premature aging and protect collagen and elastin. Over the years, she has found that the ZO Skincare program is a comprehensive, yet flexible way to incorporate all of these components into an individualized skincare program based on the client’s needs. While Natalie does not dismiss less expensive skincare options, she cautions that “less expensive means less aggressive. If it feels like nothing is happening when you apply a skincare product, then probably nothing is happening.” If you want the best results, you need supervised medical grade skincare and you need to be patient and give it time to work. Good skin care is a solid foundation for a host of more aggressive procedures that Natalie does at Mickel Plastic Surgery. Dermaplaning is a procedure in which Natalie uses a scalpel blade to delicately remove fine facial hair and dead cells on the skin surface. Dermaplaning does not result in excessive regrowth of hair and leaves the skin surface smooth and fresh. A Hydrafacial is a procedure that essentially powerwashes the skin, exfoliating dead skin, removing sebum and debris from pores and instilling antioxidants and nutrients into the skin. It is one of the most common procedures that Natalie performs. During both procedures, Natalie inspects the condition of the skin, noting product buildup and other factors that may be causing problems and she uses this information to help formulate a treatment plan. Both procedures are reasonably priced. Microneedling is another popular minimally invasive treatment at Mickel Plastic Surgery, addressing large pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines, and overall

Natalie’s favorite procedure is LuMecca, an intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment that improves sun spots, redness, freckles, and broken capillaries. This affordable procedure typically requires only 1 treatment with possibly 1-2 touch-up “spot” treatments depending on the severity of damage to the skin and the client’s lifestyle. Natalie claims, “IPL is my baby, it’s my favorite because it brings instant gratification with amazing results that makes the skin look clear and balanced.” Natalie calls herself a “skin hygienist,” insisting “You brush your teeth every day but you still see a dental hygienist. The same principle applies to our skin.” In this world of cosmetic confusion, Natalie gives patients clarity on what is most beneficial for them. “Experience has taught me how to push the envelope without overtreating,” she says. “Everyone is different, and services should be customized to each patient.” Natalie’s loyal, long-term clientele affirm her expertise in the skincare arena. And she develops relationships beyond cosmetics. “Every patient is part of who I am now. I’ve laughed and cried with them. Friends get together every 6 weeks for a cup of coffee - I have that experience several times a day. My clients validate me and my work. I get back more than I give.” 903 North 2nd St, Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: (318) 388-2050 Facebook: Mickel Plastic Surgery Instagram: mickelplasticsurgery Web: www.mickeplasticsurgery.com/

Natalie Todd, Medical Aesthetician

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Meredith’s Musings THE WAVES BENEATH article by MEREDI T H MC K I NNI E

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his January marks three years without my little sister Bonnie. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, her name came up, as it often does. I commented that I was getting used to holidays without her, and that the normalization of her absence felt unjust somehow. I no longer anticipate her walking in the door or pre-fret about her tardiness delaying our dinner. Sometimes I don’t think about her at all. But when I do, it rushes into my consciousness like a tidal wave - the waves of grief. A procedural wave descended on all of us when the monument company called in October to announce her headstone was ready - the headstone we ordered in June of 2023. Mom had asked me about the monument sporadically over the last year, so I was happy to relay the message. In the few visits to her burial site, the absence of a stone, instead featuring only a weathered picture on a stake, suggested a lack of care. She wasn’t forgotten; I didn’t want it to appear that she was. Mom seemed surprised when I called, responding with a sudden “Oh.” I thought she would be relieved, as some people kept nagging us about the delay. When Mom and I talked the following day, she said she was surprised how final the arrival of the tombstone felt. Without a permanent marker, Bonnie existed in this liminal space between

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life and death. Though she was no longer with us, her chapter was not yet complete. I keep thinking about the significance of 3 years. Though a relatively short span in a lifetime, 1/12 of Sister’s life to be exact, a lot can happen in those handful of years. I gave birth twice within 3 years. I obtained a terminal degree within 3 years. Bonnie’s missed so much, and it keeps weighing on me that she will miss everything else there is. My youngest daughter has experienced more life without Aunt Bonnie than she did with her. Will she even remember her? I keep pondering how we keep people alive, how we keep them mentally present in their physical absence. And should we? Should intentional effort be spent in keeping the name and memory alive? I think most would say yes, but how many actively oblige that responsibility? So often after her passing, people would come up and share memories of her with me. They’d tell me how much they loved her, share a funny story, or simply say how much they missed her. I loved when that happened. I hope my early tears didn’t discourage people from communicating those sentiments. Not to be dramatic, but I love crying. I feel it’s an emotional release that needs escape. Crying feels cathartic in a way that little else does. I wish we didn’t feel so inclined to hide our tears or dry them on impact. The visible

manifestation of emotion has a connective thread that we all desperately need right now, a sign of humanity. I remember being in a movie theater with a friend once and hearing her sniffle. I leaned into the darkness to witness her tears. She rebuffed my attention, insisting I quit watching her. I’m not sure the source of the shame of sadness. Is it assumed weakness? What could be stronger than unloading your emotion on your face? It’s akin to opening your heart cavity and letting others peer inside. I can’t fathom a braver act of sharing with another soul. I’m known for foaming at the mouth, for saying what pops into my head before thinking it through. Husband finds it refreshing, but your husband should say that, right? I do that with her name sometimes, surprising even myself. I utter, “Bonnie” and think, where did that come from? Internal ocean waves move below the surface, between layers of water with varying temperatures or densities. The impact can be large though that they’re barely visible from the surface. Her naming, her memory is like that internal wave, an amalgamation of all she was, of all she still is, and all she’ll never be.

Antique Alley Association Hosts Champagne Stroll Downtown West Monroe was buzzing on November 20th as the annual Champagne Stroll returned for an evening of shopping, sipping, and strolling. Guests enjoyed complimentary champagne while exploring local boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops, all while soaking in the festive atmosphere and community spirit that make downtown West Monroe so special. The Champagne Stroll once again proved to be a favorite holiday tradition—bringing friends together, supporting local shops, and celebrating all things local in style.

On the BayouScene

1 Riley Sumrall and Kasee Sumrall 2 Ana Vines, Lindsey Hudson, Anna Browning, Brooke McCoy and Meredith Pilcher 3 Michelle Wilson, Gracie Tichenor and Emily Hornsby 4 Kirsten Barfield, Nicole Ramsey, Allison Geurriero, Dr. Mary Kathryn Crigler, Chelsea Babineaux and Paige Bradford 5 Tyler Byrd and Abaigail Brown 6 Anna Mapp 7 Sarah Trichel, Felicia Fuller and Avery Holland 8 Kerri Taylor, Kerrigan Kinman and Ashley Collie

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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 1, 3, 17, 29, 31 ULM Men’s Basketball Venue: Fant-Ewing Coliseum, 4099 Northeast Ave. Monroe, LA 71203 January 1, 3, 14, 17, 22, 24 ULM Women’s Basketball Venue: Fant-Ewing Coliseum, 4099 Northeast Ave. Monroe, LA 71203 January 1, 3, 17, 22, 24 GSU Women’s Basketball Hours: Varying times Cost: Ticket prices vary Venue: Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center, 100 N. Stadium Dr. Grambling Phone: 318-274-3811 January 2, 15, 17, 29, 31 LA Tech Women’s Basketball Venue: Thomas Assembly Center, 1650 W Alabama Ave. Ruston, LA 71270 Phone: 318-257-3631 January 2, 3, 9, 10, 23, 24, 30 Monroe Moccasins Hockey on the bayou is back for another season! Head to the Civic Center to Pack the Pit and cheer on the Monroe Moccasins. Hours: 7PM Venue: Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expy. Monroe, LA Phone: 318-329-2225 January 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Ruston Farmers Market Enjoy local produce, handmade products, and more at this farmers market downtown. Hours: 9am-1pm Venue: 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston Phone: 318-957-1305 January 3, 5, 17, 24, 26 GSU Men’s Basketball Venue: Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center, 100 N. Stadium Dr. Grambling Phone: 318-274-3811 January 5, 12, 19, 26 Creative Meetups Gather with fellow artists to share ideas, techniques, and stories as you create art. Hours: 6pm-8pm Cost: Free Venue: Kit Gilbert Studio, 301 N Trenton St. #3 Ruston, LA 71270 Phone: 318-202-3202

January 6 Krewe of Janus Twelfth Night Celebration The King and Queen of Mardi Gras will appear for the first time in their royal regalia at this exciting celebration! Hours: 7PM - 11PM; Cost: $60 Venue: Krewe of Janus Float Den, 901 Louisville Ave. Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: 318-348-3237 January 8 RFM: Ecuadorian Cuisine Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen and learn how to make Ecuadorian shrimp ceviche. Hours: 6-8pm Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA Phone: 318-957-1305 January 8, 10, 14, 24 LA Tech Men’s Basketball Venue: Thomas Assembly Center, 1650 W Alabama Ave. Ruston, LA 71270 Phone: 318-257-3631 January 9-10 Resistol’s Stampede at the Ike Watch powerhouse performances in saddle bronc, bareback, and bull riding, steer wrestling, team roping, calf roping, and barrel racing. Hours: 7:30PM Cost: $15 Adult Pre-sale, $20 Adult at the Door, $8 Ages 4-10 Venue: Ike Hamilton Expo Center, 501 Mane St. West Monroe, LA 71292 January 9-11 Big Creek Trade Days Enjoy this shopping venue with a variety of local vendors, food, and live music Hours: Friday and Saturday 9am5pm, Sunday 10am-4pm Cost: $5 per car Venue: 327 California Plant Rd. Dubach, LA 71235 Phone: 318-680-1304 January 9, 12 Krewe of Janus Texas Hold ‘em Poker Tournament. Hours: 5:30PM - 10PM Cost: $10 Registration, $80 Entry Venue: Krewe of Janus Float Den, 901 Louisville Ave. Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: 318-348-3237 January 10 Wellness Resolution Run

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Join the Wellness Center for their 10th Annual Wellness Resolution Run to kick off the year with energy, excitement, and purpose in this 5K/10K challenge! Hours: 8AM Cost: $35 Pre-Registration, $40 Race Day Venue: The Wellness Center, 3215 Cypress St. West Monroe, LA 71291 January 10 Réveillon: A Night for the Arts This will be a dazzling evening of food, music, art auctions, and celebrations supporting the arts in Northeast Louisiana. Hours: 7:30PM - 10:30PM Cost: $125 Venue: Century Link, 100 Centurylink Dr. Monroe, LA 71203 January 13 RFM: Mocktails 101 Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen and learn how to make delicious mocktails taught by White Lightnin’. Hours: 6-8pm Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA Phone: 318-957-1305 January 18 Ali Siddiq: In The Shadows Comedian Ali Siddiq has a unique riff-style comedy that makes you feel like you're hanging out, cracking jokes with a friend, except all the jokes are crafted with perfection - and hilarious. Don't miss this stop on his In The Shadows tour. Hours: 7PM Cost: Ticket Prices Vary Venue: Jack Howard Theater, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expy. Monroe, LA January 20 RFM: SNAP Free Class Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen and learn how to make easy meals with SNAP benefits. Hours: 6-7pm; Cost: Free Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA Phone: 318-957-1305 January 21 Charcuterie Pairing Class Sip, savor, and learn! Join Apero for a charcuterie pairing class—perfect

pairings, expert tips, and unforgettable flavors await. Hours: 4PM - 5PM Cost: $45 Venue: Apero, 2252 Tower Dr. Suite 107, Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: 318-737-7441 January 22 RFM: Slow Roast 101 Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen and learn how to make delicious slow roast meats with Chef Kevin Bourg Hours: 6-8pm Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA Phone: 318-957-1305 January 24 15th Annual Spring Gardening Seminar Join the Northeast Louisiana Master Gardeners and learn about nature's Web of Life. Hours: 7:30AM - 12PM Cost: $25 Venue: West Monroe Convention Center, 901 Ridge Ave. West Monroe Phone: 318-323-2251 January 24 Sam’s Love 5K/10K and 1 Mile Fun Run Sign up to run and support a great cause. Sam’s Love supplies baby books tailored to stillbirth, infant, and pregnancy loss. Hours: 8AM Cost: $25 - $45 Venue: Forsythe Park, 2300 Sycamore St. Monroe, LA 71201 January 24 Krewe of Janus Grand Ball This formal attire event promises live music, a buffet, open bar, and lots of fun! Hours: 6PM - 11PM Cost: $100 Venue: The Hub, 201 Washington St. Monroe, LA 71201 January 27 RFM: Soup Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen and learn how to make a loaded baked potato soup with Cam’s Kitchen. Hours: 6-8pm Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA Phone: 318-957-1305

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