BayouLife Magazine March 26

BLcontents

30 / PRESSED BOTANICALS

Long after the joy of fresh flowers fade, you can hold onto those memories by pressing flowers just like the Victorians did.

32 / EASTER PARADE

Easy to care for, cyclamen delights with fragrant blossoms in a wide variety of colors like fuschia, pink, red and white and lush heart shaped foliage.

44 / SAUTÉED BRUSSELS SPROUTS

Think of Brussel Sprouts as tiny, delicious cabbages which are the perfect accompaniment to an Easter ham or delicately cooked chicken breasts.

52 / THE IRISH LEGEND

This beverage is complex and lightly sweet and tart with hints of rosemary, almond, apple, lemon, lime, and blackberry.

54 / SOWING THE SEEDS

This is your signal to get growing! After the last spring frost, it is safe to start planting outdoors.

56 / BUNNIES AND BUTTERFLIES

For Easter Brunch, we’ve gathered a whimsical collection of tabletop delights that celebrate rebirth and renewal.

102 / BAYOU ARTIST

After leaving a career in finance, Audrey McCumber returned to ceramics and built Red Bear Pottery into a full-time business, applying her business background to produce and sell functional pottery.

APRIL 2018

112 / WOMEN’S SYMPOSIUM

70 / BAYOU EATS

In less than a year, Shanna Hopper has transformed Two J’s Tavern and Grill into a welcoming, upscale community gathering space through hands-on leadership, personal recipes, and a commitment to quality and customer connection.

72 / LEADING LADIES

BayouLife Magazine’s Leading Ladies honors these women who have made an impact in Northeast Louisiana through their volunteerism, leadership , and personal achievements.

To celebrate the Women’s Symposium 10th anniversary, they have curated their Top 10 Trailblazers, alongside their traditional awards.

118 / SOUTHERN SWEETHEART

This spring, step into a dreamy world of blush pinks and cherry reds with twirl-worthy dresses and accessories that sparkle with every step. These doll-inspired looks blend sweet softness with bold confidence, bringing a fresh, romantic charm to the season. Find these looks at local boutiques.

As we welcome a new month at BayouLife Magazine, we are proud to recognize Women’s Empowerment Month. This is a time to acknowledge the leadership, service, and influence of women in our workplaces, homes, and communities. I am fortunate to work with a staff made up entirely of women whose dedication and professionalism shape each issue of this magazine. I am also surrounded by strong women in my own family, including my two determined daughters, my mother, and my sister. Their strength and perspective continue to guide and encourage me.

This month we are introducing our inaugural BayouLife Leading Ladies. We asked the community to nominate women who have made an impact in Northeast Louisiana through volunteerism, leadership, and personal achievement. The response was tremendous. We received many thoughtful nominations, and our volunteer committee had a difficult time narrowing the list. The 13 women featured in this issue represent commitment, integrity, and service. We are honored to share their stories on pages 72 through 84.

We are also recognizing the 10th anniversary of the Women’s Symposium. To mark this milestone, organizers have selected a Top 10 Trailblazers group in addition to their traditional awards. These individuals have supported the Symposium in meaningful ways, serving as attendees, panelists, sponsors, members, and board chairs. Their involvement has helped expand the reach and impact of the event throughout our region. You can read more about these honorees and find upcoming dates for this year’s Symposium on page 112.

Inside this issue, you will also find features that celebrate the season. On page 56, Maré Brennan shares an Easter tablescape that brings together simple details for a meaningful gathering. On page 52, we offer a tribute to St. Patrick’s Day with a featured Irish cocktail to enjoy with family and friends.

Our artist this month is Audrey McCumber, owner of Red Bear Pottery. McCumber creates functional pottery designed to be used and enjoyed in daily life. Her work reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and to building connection through shared spaces and routines. Read more about her work and creative path on page 102.

In Monroe, Shanna Hopper has transformed Two J’s Tavern and Grill into a welcoming community gathering place in less than a year. Through hands on leadership, personal recipes, and a focus on quality, she has created a space that brings people together. You can read Starla’s feature on this local establishment on page 90.

We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of BayouLife Magazine and take time to learn more about the women and stories that continue to shape our community.

Cassie

Phone 318.855.3185

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

PUBLISHER & OWNER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com

COPY EDITOR Cindy Foust

GENERAL MANAGER Toni Navarro toni@bayoulifemag.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

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

Maré Brennan

Kenny Covington

Starla Gatson

Meredith McKinnie

Delia Simpson

April C. Doughty Vanelis Rivera

Kerry Heafner

Erin Sharplin Love

Paul Lipe

Rev. Roy Bryan Moore

Beatrice A. Tatem, Ph.D.

Phil Trahan

Cindy G. Foust

Starla Gatson

Cory Fernandes, DO. Jerod Smith

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kelly Moore Clark

Unveiled Radiance Photography

Kevin Beasley Photography ON THE COVER 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.

Alumni Spotlight

ULM Alum: State Senator Katrina R. Jackson-Andrews

SENATOR JACKSON‑ANDREWS AND HER HUSBAND,

Samuel Andrews, are devoted to serving God, raising children, supporting their community, and staying closely connected to family.

Growing up in Monroe, Katrina Jackson was blessed by an abundance of family. Rooted in faith and familial love, Katrina benefitted from a village upbringing after her parents’ divorce. Paternal grandmother Alice Jackson, an educator in the community, was one of the first minority professors at ULM (then NLU). Maternal grandmother Mattie Ward cared for Katrina and her four siblings after school, the grandmothers living a few streets apart. When both her parents, Patricia Holman (Welton Holman) and Walter Jackson (Linda Jackson) remarried, Katrina was blessed with four parents, as all parties remained active in the kids’ lives. Along with her church family at Riverside Missionary Baptist, Katrina credits God with each pivotal decision.

With two sisters attending ULM, Katrina had little choice in school. Staying home made financial sense, and Katrina heeded her parents’ advice. She was once again on yet another campus as Alicia’s little sister and depended on both of her sisters for guidance. Majoring in Pre-Law and Legal Studies, Katrina needed an internship her final year at ULM. Her father reached out to LA State Representative and attorney Willie Hunter, Jr. His mentorship shaped Katrina’s professional and personal life. Representative Hunter brought resources back to the district, hosting financial literacy courses and supporting initiatives for students and seniors. Hunter modeled integrity and faith-based leadership, encouraging community engagement outside of Baton Rouge.

After completing her bachelor’s degree, Katrina taught English and reading at her alma mater, Carroll High School, riding to and from school with her step-father Welton Holman. While teaching her students key study habits, Katrina perfected her own. The academic discipline paid off when she obtained her Juris Doctor from Southern University. While still working with Representative Hunter, she obtained a position in his Baton Rouge office. Katrina served as the Labor Committee Attorney for the LA House of Representatives and then the Executive Director of the LA Legislative Black Caucus. During the Jindal administration, the budget crisis produced devastating cuts to higher education, healthcare, and public services. Sitting in meetings, Katrina became frustrated that representatives were taking votes contrary to economists’ advice. She worried for the future of her home state.

One night, Katrina found herself deep in prayer when she heard God say, “Run!” While she never planned to run for office, Katrina submitted

to God’s calling. While her parents and sister, Alicia Jackson were hesitant at first because she was in a stable career, the siblings all worked as a team during Katrina’s campaign for the LA House seat (District 16). The signs encouraged constituents to vote for Katrina “Pooh” Jackson, her childhood moniker, reminding everyone of the family that raised her. She served two terms, before being elected LA State Senator in 2019. Named Chairwoman of the LA Legislative Black Caucus, Katrina worked diligently through the budget cuts of the Jindal administration, governing beyond party lines, and in the best interest of her constituents. During the Edwards administration, Katrina focused on restoring higher education funding, protecting K-12 education, and appropriating funds to address healthcare losses. While representing her community, Katrina founded Katrina R. Jackson & Associates where she still practices law today.

Love found Katrina in her early 40s after meeting Samuel Andrews, now the Assistant Principal at Richwood High School and Pastor at New St. James Baptist Church. The couple met at the Bayou Jamboree when Katrina’s home team the Ouachita Lions faced Samuel’s Ruston Bearcats. Samuel invited Katrina to speak at his church for Black History month, and they’ve been having one long conversation ever since. Katrina calls Samuel, “the smartest man I know, my defender and God-ordained Valentine.” Katrina received legal custody of her nephew Aydain (now 16) four months before she found out she would not biologically have her own children. His presence, along with Samuel and his son Joe and her niece Alajah (who is like her daughter), softened that blow. Katrina calls Aydain “God’s special gift” and considers all of her nieces and nephews to be gifts of love.

Katrina worships with her husband and church family at New St, James Baptist Church and fellowships with her family and extended family at her mom’s house on Sundays and holidays, although she admits they prefer her husband’s cooking over hers. She enjoys countless ministry events and fellowships with her New St. James Missionary Baptist Church family. She states that, “The village has never led me wrong, and they all bring so much wisdom and joy to my life.”

Senator Jackson-Andrews notes that ULM has a high number of graduates serving in the LA Legislature, where Katrina focuses on stabilizing funding for the university, the “hidden jewel” in our community. Senator Jackson encourages northeast Louisiana residents to drive through the ULM campus with their children, reminding everyone of the educational powerhouse in our own backyard. As a senator, concerned citizen, and woman of faith, Katrina Jackson gives all the credit to God, insisting, “To whom much is given, much is required.”

Calling All Women

Sisterhood of Collective Strength and Solidarity

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

THE MONTH OF MARCH IS KNOWN IN THIS COUNTRY AS Women’s History Month. Worldwide on March 8th many nations celebrate International Women’s Day. Each year the National Women’s History Alliance designates a theme for the month. This year’s theme is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” This timely theme pays homage to the undying efforts of women during the current year while celebrating leadership that is richly diverse, intergenerational and intersectional.

The contributions of women are extensive and have been intertwined in all areas of society throughout human history. “Calling All Women “is an appeal to unite and bring women across different racial, age and cultural groups together for the purpose of empowerment, support and advocacy. I selected the theme “Calling All Women” after witnessing Ruby Dee, poetic and civil rights activist and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, deliver her poem entitled “Calling All Women.” In her inspiring spoken word piece, Ms. Dee encouraged the women assembled to acknowledge their inner strength, capabilities, and resilience. It was a plea for women to recognize their capacity for action in 1999 that remains true in 2026. Like Ms. Dee I encourage women in therapy as well as outside of therapy to embrace their individual power, then unite and join with other women in both personal and social contexts. I had a “Calling All Women” experience in 2025 while attending a town hall meeting at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. Imagine if you will, being in a convention sized room filled with over 30,000 women convening to discuss the issues of the day. There were women old and young, classified by some as dolls, divas and dears. There were Women of all hues, body types and sizes, sporting hairstyles of various shades and textures. I saw women cladded in business attire adorned purposefully in crimson and cream, salmon pink and apple green, royal blue and pure white, royal blue and gold and purple. These women walked with a stride that not only commanded the attention of onlookers but a stride that suggested I am a woman leading the change. There were familiar faces, women I have seen in passing, women I have embraced at social gatherings, women I knew from political engagements, the news media, the entertainment world and the mental health community. I was also amongst thousands of women I did not know and yet I felt connection and unconditional acceptance amongst this assembly of collective strength and solidarity. These women represented in their collectivistic presence numerous women led organizations like National Association of University Women, American Association of University Women, The Links Incorporated, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Sigma

Gamma Rho Sorority, National Council of Negro Women, Planned Parenthood, UN Women, Girls Not Brides, and the Loveland Foundation. Our nation continues to face several crises in which women are at the helm: unequal pay, workplace inequalities, racial indignities, gender-based violence, threats to reproductive rights, human trafficking, immigration, economic turmoil, rising energy costs, inflated insurance prices, mental health care disparities, unequal political representation, and social injustice. Women have always been multitasking, contributors to society in the various roles they hold in life. Many women have had to learn to avoid being plugged into the things, situations and people that serve as distractions that will prevent progress. Women like those attending the town hall meeting cited above are educators, social workers, psychologists, counselors, scholars, artists, athletes, homemakers, caretakers, religious leaders, doctors, scientists, healers, survivors, researchers, inventors, lawyers, nurses, politicians, engineers, entrepreneurs, actresses, civil right leaders, supreme court justices, administrators and writers. Women have led us out of slavery, through segregation, championed women suffrage to advance not only the agenda of women but for the benefit of society. I admire the women who have taken stands, opened doors for others and when deemed necessary participated in shutdowns, sit-ins and protests. Women have stepped into the forefront repeatedly in their commitment to social change, community growth, professional and educational advancement. In a time of escalating conflicts, rising authoritarianism and devastating climate change, women in leadership are needed now more than ever.

I center my focus each March on Women‘s History while acknowledging the contributions in our nation by women every month. While Women’s History Month remains a nationally recognized observance, its official celebration has been scaled back due to the actions of government agencies and organizations. This year I have written with heightened urgency in response to this threating reality. Regardless of administrative and political shifts, despite what we may hear or see, regardless of the lists women are removed from, history indicates women have always exhibited power. Women still have power and women are still in power. Women have always been influential even when overlooked and yet are still leading competently towards future change. While there are some who are uncertain as to what March 2026 and beyond will bring, The National Women’s History Alliance and the many women led entities who combat the pressures to be silent and disappear have gotten it right … women are leading the change. Let us be ready for the call.

Winnsboro Medical Spa

Melasma: The Thief of Confidence

IN THE SOUTH, WE ARE RAISED ON A SPECIFIC BRAND OF grit and grace. We are taught that a good casserole can cure a broken heart and that enough hairspray can hold a life together. We are the backbone of our families and the organizers of our communities. But for many women, that strength stops the moment they look in the mirror and see the “mask” staring back at them.

We are talking about melasma. Often called the “mask of pregnancy,” these stubborn gray and brown patches on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip can make even the most confident woman want to retreat into the shadows.

This March, as we celebrate Women’s Empowerment, Winnsboro Medical Spa is shifting the focus from simply looking good to feeling comfortable in your own skin. Melasma often feels overwhelming because it is triggered by our hormones, the Louisiana heat, and the sun we love. It can feel like a losing battle. But Dr. Kelly Lodgen, recently named a BayouLife “Leading Lady,” wants you to know that you do not have to live behind the mask any longer.

The Thief of Confidence

Melasma is more than just a skin condition. It is an emotional weight. We see patients who will not walk to the mailbox without heavy concealer. We see mothers who hide under hats at their children’s ballgames, afraid that five minutes of sun will undo months of skincare. When you are constantly worrying about your skin, you are not fully present in your life. You are hiding in the background.

Dr. Kelly believes that every woman deserves to feel like the leading lady of her own story. To do that, we have to strip away the insecurity that keeps you from stepping into the spotlight.

The Power Protocol: MOXI™ + ZO® Skin Health

Treating melasma requires a thoughtful, highly sophisticated strategy rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Because it is both hormonal and heat-sensitive, using the wrong laser or overly aggressive treatment can actually aggravate the condition, causing the pigment to become darker and even more stubborn. That’s why careful evaluation and customization are essential. Dr. Kelly supports her patients with a carefully designed protocol that combines gentle, targeted technology with prescription-strength pigment suppression to calm existing discoloration while helping prevent future flare-ups.

The Technology: MOXI™

We are proud to introduce the MOXI™ laser to Northeast Louisiana. Part of our new Sciton HALO Tribrid system, MOXI is the gentle hero melasma patients have been waiting for. It uses a specific 1927 nm wavelength that does not rely on high heat. Instead, it creates tiny micro-channels in the skin to lift pigment out without triggering a flare-up. It is safe for all skin tones and acts as a “prejuvenation” tool to polish and brighten the complexion without significant downtime.

The Suppression: ZO® Skin Health

Lasers treat the pigment you can see, but we also have to stop the pigment you cannot see yet. To truly allow your skin to heal, we have to quiet the internal “pigment factories.” Dr. Kelly places her melasma patients on a customized skincare rotation featuring ZO® Pigment Control Crème 4% Hydroquinone. This prescription formula works by suppressing pigment production at the source. It pauses the damage, allowing the MOXI laser to do its work effectively. This comprehensive approach is not just a temporary fix, but a long-term strategy for skin health. By combining in-office treatments with a dedicated at-home regimen, Dr. Kelly’s protocol is designed to break the cycle of pigment production and reveal lasting clarity. It is a commitment to yourself, and our team is here to guide and support you every step of the way on your journey to reclaiming your confidence.

Step Into Your Light

Being a Leading Lady is not about awards or titles. It is about owning your story. It is about having the confidence to cut your hair short, to go to the grocery store fresh-faced, and to show up for your life fully.

Dr. Kelly is dedicated to ensuring that women in Winnsboro and beyond have access to the same elite treatments found in major metropolitan areas. You do not have to travel hours to receive worldclass care. If you are tired of hiding from the sun and the mirror, let us help you reveal the radiant skin waiting underneath.

Ready to Unmask Your Confidence? Book your appointment today by visiting WinnsboroMedicalSpa.com or call us at (318) 435-3872.

Spring Into Training Safely

Smart Strategies to Build Strength, Prevent Injury, and Start the Season Strong

BY CORY FERNANDES, DO, OCHSNER LSU HEALTH – MONROE

AS THE WEATHER WARMS AND DAYS GROW LONGER, many people are ready to swap the treadmill for the trail.

In North Louisiana, spring is a popular time to return to outdoor activity whether that means training for a 5K, playing tennis or cycling through local parks.

Sports medicine providers often see a rise in injuries this time of year. After a less-active winter, jumping too quickly into intense workouts can lead to overuse injuries that may slow you down just as the season begins.

With the correct approach, you can enjoy spring training while protecting your body. Here are some expert tips to help you ease back into outdoor activity safely.

Follow The 10% Rule

One of the most common mistakes athletes make is doing too much too soon. Even if you stayed active indoors, outdoor workouts place new stress on the body. Uneven ground, wind and elevation changes challenge muscles and joints in different ways.

Sports medicine professionals recommend the “10% rule.” Increase your weekly distance, weight or workout time by no more than 10% each week. This steady progression helps your body adapt, and it reduces the risk of injury.

Warm Up The Right Way

Cool muscles are more likely to strain, especially during brisk spring mornings. A proper warmup is essential.

Choose dynamic stretches that keep your body moving, such as leg swings, lunges and arm circles. These movements increase blood flow and prepare your muscles for activity. Save static stretching for after your workout when muscles are warm and more flexible.

Check Your Gear

If your athletic shoes have been sitting unused since autumn, take a close look at them before heading out. Most running shoes lose shock absorption after 300 to 500 miles. Worn-out shoes can contribute to issues like shin splints or plantar fasciitis.

Spring weather can also change quickly. Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking layers that you can remove as temperatures rise. Even on cloudy days, sun exposure matters. Use a sweat-resistant

sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and wear sunglasses that protect against ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Stay Ahead Of Dehydration

Dehydration is not just a summer concern. It can happen in spring, too. By the time you feel thirsty, your body may already be dehydrated. This can affect both physical performance and focus. Aim to drink about 16 ounces of water two hours before exercising, and continue sipping it during your workout. If you plan to exercise longer than an hour, an electrolyte drink may help replace lost sodium and potassium.

Know The Difference Between Soreness And Injury

Muscle soreness after a tough workout is normal. Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) usually appears 24 to 48 hours later, and it feels like a dull ache.

Pain that is sharp, sudden, or causes swelling or limping is different. This type of pain may signal an injury. Do not push through it. Rest, ice, compression and elevation can help. If pain lasts more than a few days, seek medical care.

Watch The Pollen Count

Spring in Louisiana often brings high pollen levels. For people with asthma or seasonal allergies, poor air quality can make breathing more difficult during exercise.

Check the daily pollen forecast before heading outdoors. On high-pollen days, consider working out indoors or exercising after a rainfall when the air is typically clearer.

Spring is a season of renewal and a great time to refresh your fitness goals. By taking a steady and informed approach to training, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your body strong and injury-free.

The goal is not just to stay active today. It is also to remain healthy and moving all summer long.

Dr. Cory Fernandes specializes in family medicine and sports medicine at Ochsner LSU Health Monroe. Visit ochsnerlsuhs.org/doctors/coryfernandes-do to schedule an appointment or learn more.

Cheers to March Moments

With Doe’s Eat Place & Beef and Barrel

MARCH BRINGS A UNIQUE EXCITEMENT—THE promise of spring, the passion of March Madness, and the joy of St. Patrick’s Day. It’s a time when gatherings come alive with laughter, friendly rivalries, and unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re toasting Irish heritage or cheering on your team, the combination of exceptional whiskeys and Cajun bites sets the stage for a season to savor.

Four Walls Whiskey was created by the stars of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia—Rob McElhenney, Charlie Day, and Glenn Howerton— as a heartfelt tribute to the bars where friendships and memories are made. The project was born from their love for the bar culture portrayed in their show and their desire to support the hospitality industry. More than a celebrity brand, Four Walls represents community and camaraderie, celebrating the stories and laughter shared across the bar counter.

Crafted from a blend of Irish and American rye whiskies, Four Walls greets the nose with rich caramel, toasted oak, and subtle vanilla notes. On the palate, it delivers velvety butterscotch, warming spices, and a smooth, lingering finish that evokes the nostalgia of a cozy, familiar bar. Four Walls Irish Gold: 2 oz Four Walls Whiskey, 1 oz peach schnapps, 2 oz ginger ale, and lemon wedge garnish Combine over ice and garnish with lemon for a crisp, bright cocktail.

73 Distilling Irish Channel Whiskey pays homage to New Orleans’ Irish heritage, rooted in the Irish Channel neighborhood established by 19th-century Irish immigrants. 73 Distilling combines traditional Irish whiskey-making with Southern craftsmanship, celebrating NOLA’s multicultural legacy.

This whiskey presents honey and soft citrus on the nose, while creamy vanilla and gentle oak create a smooth, mellow sip—a true expression of New Orleans’ warmth and hospitality. Irish Channel Mule: 2 oz 73 Distilling Irish Channel Whiskey, 4 oz ginger beer, and Fresh lime wedge Serve over ice with lime for a zesty, game-day refresher.

Jameson Triple Triple is a showcase of Irish tradition and innovative aging techniques. The triple distillation process, a hallmark of Jameson, ensures signature smoothness, while aging in bourbon, sherry, and Malaga casks adds depth and complexity. The bourbon casks lend vanilla sweetness, the sherry casks infuse rich dried fruits, and the Malaga casks impart a unique hint of citrus and almonds. On the nose, it offers sweet citrus and subtle spice, leading to a palate rich in orchard fruits, caramel, and a lingering nutty finish.Triple Citrus Highball: 2 oz

Jameson Triple Triple, 4 oz soda water, and orange twist garnish Pour over ice, add soda, and finish with an orange twist for a bubbly delight.

Red Spot Irish Whiskey, a single pot still expression from the iconic Spot range with origins dating back to the 1800s, features a 15-year age statement, marking it as the oldest in the Spot lineup. Originally produced by Mitchell & Son, a family-owned wine and spirits merchant established in 1805, Red Spot was reintroduced in 2018 after a long hiatus, preserving its traditional maturation style. Aged in a trio of bourbon, sherry, and Marsala wine casks, it develops complexity at 46% ABV with non-chill filtration. The nose bursts with ripe plums, baked apple, and toasted oak. The palate delivers stewed fruits, clove, and sweet vanilla with layers of marzipan and peppery spice. Its velvety, long finish combines oak warmth with lingering fruit and spice, creating a balanced and sophisticated sip.

Lab Rosé is a crisp, fruit-forward wine with aromas of strawberry and citrus blossoms. On the palate, it offers flavors of fresh berries, hints of melon, and a zesty finish—perfect for spring gatherings. Meanwhile, the Lab Red Blend, presented in a convenient 3L box, is a bold, smooth wine with notes of ripe blackberries, plums, and a touch of spice, supported by soft tannins for a velvety finish—ideal for entertaining large groups.

Best Stop, a Louisiana institution, began as a small grocery in Scott, Louisiana—the heart of Cajun country. Founded by the Guidry family in 1986, it has become legendary for its boudin and sausages, made from family recipes passed down through generations. Known for their perfect blend of pork, rice, and Cajun spices, Best Stop boudin has become a staple for gatherings and game days. This game day try out any of the Cajun Grillers. These are the classic Best Stop products in smaller sizes so that they can be easily spread around a group. You could also try out our Boudin Balls made with their boudin for an incredible appetizer.

As March brings us St. Patrick’s Day revelry and March Madness excitement, there’s no better time to gather with friends and savor the rich heritage behind these beloved brands. From the warm camaraderie of Four Walls, the New Orleans pride of 73 Distilling, and the layered tradition of Jameson Triple Triple, to the bold flavors of Best Stop’s Cajun delicacies—each offers a unique story in every sip and bite. So, raise your glass, fire up the grill, and celebrate the joy of sharing good company, great flavors, and cherished traditions. As always thank you for letting us be your Spirit’s Guides here at Beef & Barrel!

Material Things and The Haberdashery

“THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS”, ”The Yang”, “A Tale of Two Cities”however you want to phrase it-that’s what I think of when I think about Material Things and The Haberdashery.

This month I want to introduce you to the idea of mixing the art form of quilts, needlepoint and all forms of handwork into your lives-whether it be for decorative reasons, luxury fashion staples or simply what quilts are meant to be-a source of warmth! March is National Quilting Month as well as our 5-year anniversary for The Haberdashery.

There has been a huge resurgence of all forms of handwork especially needlepoint the past few years and, truthfully it could be because of the forced nesting at home that we all had to endure during the pandemic and the simple truth of wanting to keep our hands busy, it has just expanded since then. But, whatever the reason, I am embracing it again. A fabulous article to read about the story behind needlepoint’s modern-day renaissance is online on vogue.com from a January 16, 2026 publication. It speaks about the need for time consuming projects in our lives.

I know you all can remember back in the ‘60s and ‘70s when fashion designer Gloria Vanderbilt was covering her home in quilts and I mean “covering.” The walls, the floors, the ceilings and everything in between were lacquered with pieces of Americana! She was quoted as saying “Isn’t it extraordinary how something as simple as quilts from America suddenly begin to relate to Russia and the East to become exotic and mysterious when used in a certain way.” Look it up when you have a chance-there are numerous articles about the subject online. The pictures of her home,

especially her bedroom are quite inspirational. Kiva Motnyk was interviewed by The Zoe Report about this resurgence and believes that the quilt trend has been influenced by a movement towards more intentional buying. “I think there’s been a growing awareness of where and how we spend our money, and it tends to shift towards investing in pieces that are intentionally well-made and have longevity,” she explains. People want to support small brands they believe in. Quilts and needlepoint inherently embody these values-they are created through traditional handwork and meant to be passed down to future generations.

Jonathan Anderson for Dior debuted the most darling bag accessories this year that are all sewing inspired, I am dead to have the bumble bee with scissor wings. Last year Alexis Bittar designed the most beautiful handbag that has a pair of gold metal scissors as the top handle and it is stunning. The Spring Summer 2025 Maison Valentino’s that debuted at Paris Couture Week was like no other that I have ever seen. It was the first for Italian designer Alessandro Michele. There is an excellent article on Harpers Bazaar website right now. His designs are truly magical…you think you have been transported down the rabbit hole, so to speak. His usage of quilting, needlepoint and crochet is quite amazing to see. I realize that his pieces are very “over the top” but, even if you look at these works of art and get a small amount of inspiration then his designs have accomplished something.

All of that being said, come by the shop and take a look at all that my own “A Tale of Two Cities” has to offer. The Haberdashery side has just about anything you need to get

you started in any of the handcraft categoriesquilting, embroidery, needlepoint, appliqué and so much more. We are also a Husqvarna Viking sewing and embroidery machine dealer, as well as having our own in house service department for you after you purchase your machine. Another wonderful service that we have is our own longarm quilting in the shop. While on the Material Things side, which many of you are already familiar with, we have everything from gifts, lighting, a children’s area, furniture including sofas and chairs, our own “keeping” spot that has everything from barware to food items. So, please remember to come by and check us out for any and all of your needs whether they be for gifting, a little refresh in your home or learning a new craft.

I really just wanted to use this month’s article to talk about the importance of savoring our past and meshing it into today and into the future. The simple act of treasuring the things that you, your loved one or someone that you’ve never known has crafted by hand is an endearing and worthy quality to have. Now, mind you, I realize that not everyone is going to embrace this resurgence but, I hope that this article will help in understanding it and maybe encourage you to give it a chance even if it’s in a small way.

Joyce and Robert

Never Make These Dining Etiquette Mistakes

by ERIN SHARPLIN LOVE | erinlove@panachebyerin.com

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, etiquette rules might sometimes appear outdated or overly formal. However, these social norms and conventions play a crucial role in shaping our interactions, fostering respect, and maintaining harmony within society. Etiquette is much more than just polite gestures; it is the foundation upon which positive communication and relationships are built. Many of those interactions will happen at a dining table and in other public arenas. The purpose of this article is to help you preempt any dining etiquette mistakes before they happen.

Etiquette Mistake #1: Your bread plate is always to your left. Furthermore, bread should always be broken piece-by-piece, buttered, and then eaten. Never butter the entire piece of bread and then take a bite from it. The reasoning behind this rule is that bread and butter is typically messy and crumbly. By breaking the bread into manageable pieces you will be less likely to drop crumbs on your clothing and get butter on the corners of your mouth.

Etiquette Mistake #2: Anything that is dropped on the floor should remain there. If it happens to be your utensil, simply notify the waiter and request a new one. The exception would be if the item is in the way and could pose a safety issue. In this case, retrieve the item but do not set it on the clean table or table cloth.

Etiquette Mistake #3: Salt and pepper should always be passed together. They are a pair and should never be separated. Also keep in mind that you should never reach across the table when passing. Simply pass to the closest person to you and ask them to pass it on.

Etiquette Mistake #4: Never pick your teeth or blow your nose at the table. (I know! This shouldn’t have to be said, but here we are.) If you find yourself needing to do one of these things, excuse yourself from the table and head to the privacy of a bathroom.

Etiquette Mistake #5: Sweetener packets or the paper from a pat of butter should be folded and placed under the edge of your saucer or bread plate. Never crumple it up and toss it in the middle of the table or, even worse, throw it on the floor.

Etiquette Mistake #6: Remember to say “please” and “thank you” to your server. It always amazes me when this simple mannerly rule is neglected. The same respect should also be given to your dinner partners, as well.

Etiquette Mistake #7: If you discover a piece of bone, gristle, or a seed in your food, remove it the same way it went in. For instance, if you put a piece of fish in your mouth only to discover a tiny bone, gently place the bone on the fork with the tip of your tongue. Don’t spit it out in a grotesque way. The only other option is to discreetly place the item in your napkin.

Etiquette Mistake #8: Never double dip! Break your chip or bread into a bitesized piece and then dip.

Etiquette Mistake #9: Try not to pile your trash on your plate and push it away from you when you are finished. The server should be able to tell when you are done if you place your silverware at the 10 o’clock and 4 o’clock position and place your hands in your lap.

Etiquette Mistake #10: Wait until everyone at your table has been served before beginning. If you happen to be seated with a large number of people, it’s ok to wait until those sitting directly beside you have been served.

Etiquette Mistake #11: Never keep your cell phone on the table. Place it away safely in your pocket or your purse. If you are expecting an important call, simply let your dinner partner know that you may have to step away to take the call.

Etiquette Mistake #12: Always remember to place your napkin in your lap immediately upon sitting down. If you must leave the table at any point, the napkin will go in your seat.

Those who navigate meals effortlessly don’t memorize a rulebook. They practice the basics until they become second nature. Practice makes perfect.

“When the Stars Go Dark”

by Paula McLain

“The stickiest sorts of violence are often incredibly intimate. They require trust. They take time.”

In Paula McLain’s first venture into thrillers, we meet Detective Anna Hart (whimsical name, checkered past), who specializes in cases of missing persons in San Francisco. Forced on leave, for unknownto-us reasons, Anna returns to a place of refuge, Mendocino. After the tragic death of her mother, Anna entered the foster system, and luckily landed with a lovable couple in the small California town, the one place Anna can breathe. When she finds out the town has two missing girls with strangely similar circumstances, Anna inserts herself into the investigation, intent on putting her skills to use despite her captain’s orders.

McLain’s whodunit is more psychological than investigative. In exploring the traumatic pasts of the missing girls, Anna navigates her own demons, compounded losses that make professional distance impossible. Anna interacts with people from her past - town sheriff Will, whose own sister and Anna’s friend was killed in high school. The mix of past and present - personal and professional - can be a task to keep track of, but the overwhelming theme is trauma, recognizing when it happened, to what extent, and methods of healing. McLain inserts mystical elements, along with real-life missing persons’ cases, weaving a narrative that serves as commentary on the underbelly of trauma and its long term effects. McLain

complicates the concept of victimhood writing, “Some victims don’t even have a whisper of no inside them because they don’t believe the life they have is theirs to save.”

McClain’s dissection of narrative tropes is compelling and timely.

McLain’s gift for storytelling resonates in this genre, as even absent characters come alive. Even with Anna, McLain’s restraint with the lead character sends a message, as she’s the most present and yet the biggest question mark. As both a wounded bird and fearless detective, McLain leans into multi-layered personas, suitable to the genre. The attention to natural descriptions, at times a love letter to northern California, make for rich scenes of intrigue, as if we’re plowing through the lush landscape alongside the investigator. Anna’s present confronts her past; solving the cases of the missing girls means reckoning with her own loss. I sped through this novel, intrigued by the parallel mysteries until the very end.

Paula McLain is the author of the acclaimed novel The Paris Wife (2011), a fictional telling of Ernest Hemingway’s first marriage to Hadley Richardson and Circling the Sun (2015), an exploration of the love interest of Denys Finch in the 1985 movie Out of Africa. “Sorry was maybe the loneliest feeling of all, I understood, because it only brought you back to yourself.”

“Grief is for People” by Sloane Crosley

“Time only pushes wounds aside. Regular life becomes insistent and crowds out the loss. Usually, this is a good thing. So much of healing is the recognition that not all your tissue got damaged in the accident.”

As Crosley’s Grief is for People caught my attention because it centered the experience in the title. And the book wasn’t marketed as a survival guide, but as a memoir, of someone reckoning with first material grief, and then the loss of a loved one. In the parallel losses, first of her grandmother’s inexpensive, but personally sentimental jewelry, followed quickly by the loss of her former boss and now best friend Russell, Crosley recounts her path of wading through, not out of grief but rather riding its waves. Like so many of us who navigate grief every day, Crosley looks up after stunning loss, shocked that the world still dares to turn.

Crosley’s primary feeling is violation, first from the strangers that entered her home and then from Russell who chose not to confide in her, or as she puts it, stay alive for her. Crosley questions the selfishness of the bereaved, how we want our people alive for us, not always for them. In sharing the story of her and Russell’s friendship, her version which would not mirror anyone else’s, Crosley offers readers a parting gift in Russell’s name, a way of saying goodbye to him by sharing their truth, her truth. With

honest, soulful writing and sharp, almost biting, commentary on the experience, Crosley invites us to sit with the complexity of grief. By expressing her anger, she suggests it’s okay to be angry at someone for leaving, even if it’s not their fault. She writes, “You become numb when you swallow too much sadness at once. Maybe our days are not a mixture of upbeat and downbeat songs, but notes in the same maudlin song. You just haven’t hit the bridge yet. Keep humming, you’ll get there.” In Crosley’s raw telling lies a message of hope, grounded in reality.

Disclaimer: This is the first book directly about grief that I read in a period of grieving, as my little sister died 3 years ago. Sometimes loss slips in through a book’s theme, but this is the first time I’ve reached for a book on the topic. I did cry while reading, but more so for the loss narrated in the text, not my own. Or, perhaps there’s no way to know for sure. Grief is a slippery little devil and emerges where, when, and how we least expect it.

“Perhaps if I knew more about God, I would know it’s blasphemous to want answers, and perhaps if I knew more about philosophy, I would know it’s foolish to suggest there are answers.”

REVIEW BY MEREDITH

The Art of Pressed Botanicals

Long after the joy of fresh flowers fade, you can hold onto those memories by pressing flowers just like the Victorians did. I recently made a move from Texas back to Louisiana. As I was moving books onto a shelf, a little pressed oxalis leaf, still purple but now flattened and stiff, fell out into my hand. That pressed leaf reminded me of an Austin friend who had gifted me a little tuber of oxalis, a fun little plant whose triangular leaves remind me of a living solar panel. I was immediately transported back to the chaos (and fun) of working in a florist on Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day.

Always choose flowers that are close to full bloom and avoid ones with blemishes or dark spots.

Make sure flowers are completely dry, as wet or damp flowers can become moldy.

If using flowers from a bouquet, keep stems in water until ready to press.

For large flowers with layered petals, consider separating the petals before pressing and then “reconstructing” the flower later, if desired.

Before you begin, separate any petals if needed. Then, arrange your flowers on one sheet of parchment paper with at least 3/4-inch of space in between. Try to press flowers of similar varieties or thicknesses together.

There are many ways to press leaves and flowers, the easiest is to simply press them between the pages of a heavy book. Wooden presses are easy to make and can be bought online or at craft stores. These usually involve 2 equally sized pieces of wood drilled with holes in the four corners through which you use a screw and nut to clamp down and press flowers between stacked layers of foam and paper. These methods usually take two to four weeks to achieve a good pressed botanical specimen. The thicker the flower the longer it will take to completely dry.

A quick method to press flowers is to place your flower or leave on a piece of parchment paper. Fold the paper to cover your flower. Place an iron on low heat on top of the parchment paper and press down for 10 to 15 seconds. Slowly make small circles with the iron on the parchment paper for an additional 10 to 15 seconds. Check your pressed flower. You can transfer to a book or traditional press for 1 to 2 weeks to completely finish the drying process.

Once your botanicals are dry, you can add your pressed flowers to all kinds of craft projects, like embellishing handmade cards, or placed between two pieces of framed glass for a one of a kind piece of botanical art that transports you back to a place and time or reminds you of a special friend.

BAYOU PLANT

CYCLAMEN (Cyclamen persicum)

Cyclamen is a perennial that goes dormant during the summer months and reemerges during the fall.

Although cyclamen is often found as a houseplant, used widely during the Christmas holidays, use caution as cyclamen is a toxicity risk for animals and humans if ingested.

If grown outdoors, cyclamen needs welldrained soil and should be planted in an area that gets bright indirect light, but not much direct sunlight. Cyclamen persicum has been cultivated in varieties that excel as houseplants.

Cyclamen persicum is often grown indoors in pots. While it may go dormant for the summer, with proper care, it will regrow and rebloom in the fall. If you keep your home cool during summer, your plant may just lose a few leaves.

When leaves are present, the plant is actively growing. During this period, water whenever the soil feels dry about an inch below its surface. Avoid getting water on the leaves or crown of the plant, where the stem meets the roots. A great way to water cyclamen is to put the pot on a tray then add water to the tray so that the roots take up the moisture. During the summer when the plant is dormant, water only to prevent the soil from entirely drying out.

Pinch off spent blooms and yellowing leaves to extend blooming season.

Easter Parade

Easy to care for, cyclamen delights with fragrant blossoms in a wide variety of colors like fuschia, pink, red and white and lush heart shaped foliage. We planted ours in this delightful bunny planter sourced from The Muffin Tin / Trenton House.

by MARÉ BRENNAN

A New Era of Surgical Care

St. Francis Performs Region’s First Fully Robotic Esophagectomy

ON JANUARY 19, FMOL HEALTH | ST. FRANCIS REACHED a major milestone when cardiothoracic surgeon Sarah Ahmad, MD, and her team performed the region’s first fully robotic esophagectomy.

The procedure marks a significant step forward in how complex thoracic care is delivered locally, expanding access to advanced surgical options for patients who previously had to leave the region for treatment.

Historically, fully robotic esophagectomy surgeries have only been available primarily at large academic medical centers. With this achievement, St. Francis brings that level of care closer to home for patients across northeast Louisiana.

Dr. Ahmad sees this moment as part of a broader commitment to providing high-level care within a community hospital setting. “We are bringing to our community something that has not been offered here before,” she says. Esophagectomy is one of the most complex procedures in thoracic surgery, requiring surgeons to operate in the neck, abdomen and the chest. The goal is to remove the diseased portion of the esophagus and rebuild the pathway for food using the patient’s stomach or, in rare cases, the colon.

Traditionally, this surgery required large incisions in the abdomen and chest, and sometimes the neck. While effective, these approaches placed significant physical stress on the body and often led to longer recovery times and higher risks of complications.

Over time, minimally invasive surgical techniques have evolved to reduce incision size, decrease perioperative morbidity, and enhance postoperative recovery.

In recent years cardiothoracic surgeons at St. Francis have incorporated minimally invasive technology for the thoracic component of esophageal mobilization, however the abdominal phase of the operation continued to require a conventional open incision.

This case represents the first instance at St. Francis in which both abdominal and thoracic components of an esophagectomy were performed robotically, thereby constituting a complete robotic, minimally invasive esophagectomy.

For patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer, treatment often includes chemotherapy or radiation before surgery, followed by a long recovery and sometimes additional therapy post operatively. Having to travel long distances for surgery adds stress at an already difficult time. By offering fully robotic esophagectomy locally, St. Francis removes that barrier for many patients and families. Dr. Ahmad emphasizes that keeping patients close to home supports not only physical recovery, but

also emotional well-being.

“Patients in our community do not have to travel to other states to get this kind of care,” she says. “We have strong oncology, general surgery and cardio-thoracic departments. We’re excited that we’re able to bring so much to this community and keep our patients in town.”

From a clinical standpoint, robotic-assisted esophagectomy has been associated with improved recovery in the early weeks after surgery. While the procedure itself remains extensive, studies and experience suggest patients may experience fewer postoperative complications and better functional recovery.

“We’ve seen lower rates of pulmonary, cardiac, and infectious complications,” Dr. Ahmad says. “We’ve also seen improved functional recovery at two weeks, less overall postoperative pain, and improved quality of life measures.”

The fully robotic esophagectomy represents a milestone, but it is also part of a larger trajectory for surgical care at St. Francis. Over the past several years, the hospital has steadily expanded its robotic surgery programs across multiple specialties, including general surgery and thoracic surgery.

From surgeons and anesthesiologists to nurses, technicians, and support staff, Dr. Ahmad describes the success of the program as the result of a team working together toward a shared goal.

“I think this is a big moment for our team and for the surgery department,” she says. “We all collaborated together to start this program. It’s led by the thoracic service, but it was a team effort.” For Dr. Ahmad, the most meaningful outcome is seeing patients recover more quickly and comfortably. In the early cases performed using the fully robotic approach, she notes improvements in recovery that reinforce the value of the program.

“In the last few patients that we’ve done, we’ve seen faster recovery,” she says. “If we can get better overall care for those patients and improved functional recovery, I think that is significant for us.”

She also reflects on what this milestone represents for the broader community, particularly for patients who previously felt they had no choice but to leave northeast Louisiana for complex cancer care.

“We’re excited that we’re able to bring this kind of care to our community so that our patients do not have to travel,” she says. “We have a very bright future here for northeast Louisiana.”

Learn more about robotic surgery at St. Francis and throughout FMOL Health by visiting stfran.com/surgery.

Richland Parish Data Center

LDCC Partners With Industry To Train The Workforce Behind The New Data Center

THERE HAS BEEN CONSIDERABLE DISCUSSION

surrounding the data center project currently under construction in Richland Parish, Louisiana. As with any large-scale development, public conversation has naturally focused on what this project will mean for the local community—particularly whether it will generate meaningful job opportunities for residents and whether those jobs will last beyond the construction phase. The answer to both questions is clear: thanks to Meta’s significant investment in the region, the Richland Parish data center is creating substantial, long-term economic opportunity for Northeast Louisiana.

Far from being a short-lived construction endeavor, the data center represents a long-term commitment to the region. Large technology infrastructure projects of this scale require a skilled workforce not only during the build-out phase, but for decades of ongoing operations, maintenance, and expansion. Recognizing this need, Louisiana Delta Community College has taken a proactive role in preparing the local workforce to step into these roles—ensuring that the economic benefits of the project stay rooted in the communities surrounding it.

Louisiana Delta Community College has been working closely with multiple contractors associated with the project to align training programs with real workforce needs. Through strategic partnerships and industry-driven curriculum design, the college has developed shortterm, job-focused training programs aimed at placing local residents directly into careers supporting both the construction and long-term operation of the data center. These programs are intentionally designed to be accessible, efficient, and responsive to employer demand.

One such partnership is with Turner Construction, through which a Construction Craft Laborer program launched in February. This program provides hands-on training for individuals seeking employment on large-scale construction projects and serves as an entry point into the skilled trades. For many participants, it represents a pathway into stable, well-paying careers in construction—an industry that continues to see strong demand across the state and region.

In addition to construction-related opportunities, Louisiana Delta Community College has collaborated with four contractors to develop a specialized Data Center Technician training program. These efforts are expected to result in the local hiring of up to 1,500 data center technicians over time. Starting wages vary by employer but typically range from $18 to $25 per hour, offering competitive pay and room for advancement.

The training programs are designed with flexibility and accessibility

in mind, lasting approximately three to four weeks and requiring no prior experience in the field. Courses are being offered across multiple campus locations to reduce barriers for participants. The initial class is currently underway at the Winnsboro campus, with the next session scheduled to begin on March 16th at the Monroe campus. Additional classes are planned for the West Monroe, Tallulah, and Bastrop campuses, ensuring broad access across Northeast Louisiana.

What Does a Data Center Technician Do?

A data center technician plays a vital role in maintaining the infrastructure that supports modern technology and digital services. These professionals are responsible for installing, monitoring, and maintaining servers, electrical systems, cooling systems, and network equipment within a data center environment. Their work ensures that essential digital services—such as cloud computing, data storage, and online communications—operate reliably, securely, and efficiently around the clock.

The role blends hands-on technical work with problem-solving and critical thinking skills. As technology continues to advance and the demand for data storage and processing grows, data center technicians are positioned for strong career growth, additional certifications, and long-term job stability.

Looking Ahead

The data center project in Richland Parish represents far more than a construction site—it signals sustained investment, intentional workforce development, and increased economic mobility for Northeast Louisiana. Through collaborative partnerships between industry leaders and Louisiana Delta Community College, residents are being equipped with the skills needed to access well-paying, long-term careers close to home.

As the project progresses, its ripple effects will extend beyond direct employment, supporting local businesses, strengthening the tax base, and contributing to the overall economic vitality of the region. With the right training and opportunity, Northeast Louisiana is well-positioned to benefit from this transformative investment for years to come.

For more information about workforce training opportunities related to the Richland Parish data center project, visit www.ladelta. edu/workforce.

SkySafe, Leader in Drone Detection

SkySafe Protects Campuses From Emerging Drone Threats

THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA

Monroe (ULM) has partnered with SkySafe, the global leader in drone detection and airspace intelligence. ULM has selected SkySafe’s cloud-based drone detection technology to bolster public safety across its campus, protecting students, faculty, and visitors from unsafe or unauthorized drone flights.

Universities are facing escalating challenges from unauthorized drones, which can disrupt events and compromise safety at large gatherings. SkySafe’s platform combines advanced drone detection and tracking with deep analytics and forensics, giving ULM realtime visibility into its airspace and the actionable intelligence required to stay ahead of emerging threats.

Mark Johnson, Ed.D., Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice and Training Director for the University of Louisiana Monroe Police Department, spearheaded this initiative with

support from a FEMA grant in response to an emergence of drone activity across campus. After evaluating several solutions, the university selected SkySafe for its 24/7 monitoring capabilities, reliability in detection and analytics, and partnership-driven approach to deployment and maintenance of its system.

“SkySafe gives us a proactive, reliable way to manage drone activity on campus,” said Dr. Johnson. “Beyond the technology, their handson partnership means we’re not just reacting to threats – we’re staying ahead of them while keeping our community safe.”

“As drone threats evolve, we are committed to providing the tools universities need to understand their airspace and distinguish between authorized and unauthorized drone activity,” said Melissa Swisher, SkySafe’s chief revenue officer. “ULM’s proactive decision to deploy SkySafe shows leadership in campus safety, setting an example of how universities can and should adopt advanced airspace

intelligence to protect their community.”

ULM’s deployment of SkySafe is especially critical during large-scale events such as football games and academic ceremonies, which draw thousands of students, alumni, and visitors to campus. Historically, monitoring for drones required a “boots on the ground” approach, with staff physically watching the skies – a method that is time-consuming and limited in coverage. With SkySafe’s continuous monitoring and advanced airspace intelligence, ULM now has full, real-time visibility into its airspace, ensuring that major events remain safe, secure, and uninterrupted.

“As we look to the future of ULM, it’s essential we adopt technologies that safeguard our students and enhance the overall campus experience,” said Dr. Carrie L. Castille, ULM President. “Partnering with SkySafe is an important step in ensuring our university remains a safe place to learn, live, and gather.”

SkySafe’s partnership with ULM builds on its growing presence in higher education and follows a successful deployment at the University of Illinois, which has relied on SkySafe’s airspace intelligence for three years to protect its campus and stadium during major Big 10 sporting events.

For more information on how SkySafe protects campuses, stadiums, and public spaces from emerging drone threats, visit www.skysafe.io.

Renewing the Spirit

WOMEN OF FAITH

article by Reverend RB Moore

CHRISTIAN COMEDIAN, PATSY

Clairmont, often speaks at events across the country. She tells us about the time she was just married and living in a tiny space with her military husband. Because her husband had to be away on one occasion, she found herself alone one evening.

For supper, she went to the kitchen to make a baloney sandwich. As she turned on the light, roaches went scampering all over the walls. She said, “It was like looking at moving wallpaper!” Then she saw a rat on the kitchen floor! When they made eye contact, she jumped up on the kitchen table!

Then she did something she had not done in years. She began to pray. She prayed, “Dear Lord, you probably don’t remember me, but I hear you really like my mother a lot.” She then poured out her distress to God. After she prayed, all her fears went away. A peace that surpasses all understanding flooded her heart and mind. With a kitchen infested with a rat and roaches, and on an empty stomach, she went to bed and slept through the night.

The next morning, she was awakened by a knock at the door. It was her aunt and uncle standing there. They had traveled about 100 miles to see Patsy. Immediately Patsy wrote a note to her husband. She told him she was going to stay with her uncle

and aunt for a while. He was more than welcome to come to see her at their house.

Her uncle and aunt began to explain the purpose of their visit. The day before, Patsy’s mom called them and asked them to check on Patsy sometime. As they were explaining, she was tossing her suitcases into the trunk of their car!

Patsy Clairmont illustrates a beautiful truth for us. As women of faith practice the art of prayer, the peace of God will often touch their hearts. The Apostle Paul guides us as he writes … “by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)

Yet, there’s still more we can learn from ladies filled with transforming faith. For instance, Proverbs 31:25 says about a woman of faith … “she laughs at the time to come.” Women of faith believe God will provide a joy filled event for them in the future. This brings to mind when my lovely bride, Millie, and I were living in New Orleans while I was in Seminary.

One day we learned that Millie was expecting a baby. Millie told one of her friend-girls, “Guess what! I’m expecting a baby in August!” Then they danced, hugged, screamed, or whatever young ladies do as they celebrate the sharing of good news.

Our friend then said, “Just think, Millie. Now you can watch your hubby and your baby grow up together!” Again, women of faith believe something wonderful will one day tickle their hearts with joy.

We could go on and recall stories from the lives of women in the Bible, such as Ruth, Deborah, or the Virgin Mary. We could explore the lives of more recent believers, like Ruth Bell Graham, Dale Evans Rogers, or Joni Eareckson Tada. But here’s another grand truth. The women of faith who have impacted us the most, usually, are the ones we have known personally over several years. Which women of faith played a major role in leading you to walk by faith as you follow Jesus?

Perhaps your mother, or grandmother, or a sister, or a daughter, or maybe a teacher, or a minister, or a co-worker or a neighbor influenced you the most to grow in the Faith. Look around and you will see women of faith sharing their spiritual gifts with you consistently. These are the ladies, our family, and friends, who often touch our spirits the most. If possible, why not take a moment and offer them a word of gratitude? Don’t put it off. Do it today. You’ll be glad you did. Thanks be to God. Amen.

BAYOU RECIPE

WHAT YOU NEED:

1 pound of Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved

4 slices of bacon, diced

1 stick of butter

½ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1to 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 to 2 tablespoons honey

Dash of lemon juice

Chopped fresh herbs like parsley

Cook diced bacon in a heavy pan over medium-high heat until almost done. Remove bacon, leaving drippings in the pan.

Add butter and melt, then place halved Brussels sprouts cutside down. Cook undisturbed 5–8 minutes until deeply caramelized. Season with salt and pepper, stir, then return bacon to the pan. Add balsamic vinegar and honey, cooking and stirring occasionally for 6–8 more minutes until sprouts are browned and tender.

Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

*Enamelware platter from

Sautéed Brussels Sprouts

I like to think of Brussel Sprouts as tiny, delicious cabbages which are the perfect accompaniment to an Easter ham or delicately cooked chicken breasts. These little green veggies are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and Vitamin C. Once sautéed, the sprouts will have a crispy, caramelized, savory outside and tender but firm inside.

by MARÉ BRENNAN

IN THE GARDEN

February’s article had already gone to press by the time Fern hit. I hope by now you and yours are as back to normal after the ice storm as you can be. If there is a lesson to be learned from a weather event like Fern, that lesson is this: powerlines + large trees + layers of sleet and freezing rain = a recipe for disaster. Trees and powerlines simply don’t mix, and it seems this message would have been driven home after the tornado touched down in the Garden District in 2014. Damage from Fern was more widespread, of course, and reemphasized the catch 22 associated with large trees in our part of the world. We love our large trees, no question. But, again, large trees and powerlines don’t mix. Three native trees that sustained a lot of damage are Southern Live Oak, Southern Magnolia, and Loblolly Pine. They are simply not adapted for life in situations where they get covered up with layers of ice. They are, however, adapted to life in the coastal south and stand a much better chance of holding up to coastal storms than severe winter weather. These three species are also evergreen. All that foliage provided more surface area for catching and holding sleet and freezing rain and the weight was just too much. Entire live oaks, which naturally have low centers of gravity, were split into two or three pieces. Likewise, some non-natives like Crepe Myrtles didn’t fair very well, either. As I drove around the community post-Fern, I noticed some Crepes sustained no damage at all while others, like hundred yearold specimens in Richland Parish, had their tops snapped off like match sticks.

Throughout February, I made a lot of home visits to look at trees for homeowners and give objective advice for caring for damaged trees going forward. When large trees loses a portion of a branch, the best plan of action is to clean the wound up. By that I mean removing the remainder of the hanging branch at the point where it joins either another undamaged branch or the main trunk. There is a slightly swollen ring around the base of the branch. This is called the branch collar, and the branch should be cut as close to and as parallel to this branch collar as possible. This encourages the tree to produce callus tissue that will seal the wound and prevent infection by fungal pathogens and potentially harmful insects.

Additionally, keep these tips in mind concerning large, specimen trees in the home landscape.

Foliage on sprawling branches provides more surface area for ice to accumulate on.  This Live Oak in Richland Parish succumbed to the weight.

by Kerry Heafner.

Southern Live Oaks, like this specimen in Richland Parish, naturally have low centers of gravity.  Photo by Kerry Heafner.

Loblolly and other Pines

• Pines were having problems before Fern. The flash freeze in December 2022 plus the heat and severe drought of 2023 stressed pines statewide resulting in significant mortality. They still haven’t fully recovered. Pines can reach well over a hundred feet tall and need to be as far away from powerlines and poles and roads as possible.

Southern Live Oak

• Live oaks need space. A residential area with homes immediately next to each other is not the place for them. Leave the oak allées are beautiful, but residential streets with power lines is not the place for them. Not only do the branches sprawl outward, but so do the root systems. Preventing a tree’s root system from being able to expand and grow will stress the tree and stressed trees are more likely have problems as they grow. We may be at a point where we need to ask ourselves, “Does a Live Oak really belong in my landscape?”

Southern Magnolia

• Our community has some very large, very old Southern Magnolias and about the best we can do here is clean the wounds up as previously described and keep an eye on them going forward. As with other large trees, keep them well away from powerlines and poles and roadways.

Crepe Myrtles

• Crepe Myrtles are trees. They are not hedge plants. There are better plant choices for creating a hedge.

• Crepe Myrtles need full sun all day long. Shaded Crepes will be spindly and have weak wood which is more prone to splitting in extreme weather like we experienced.

• Crepe Myrtles, and any other tree, should not be planted in an area where the root system will be obstructed. A tree’s root system needs to expand outward but can’t if there’s a concrete walkway, curb, or parking lot obstructing root growth. A

This hundred-year-old Crape Myrtle in Richland Parish had been encroached on by other trees that block sunlight.  It had become spindly and snapped off from the weight of the ice.  Photo by Kerry Heafner

healthy root system will mean a healthy tree.

• Stop the practice of annually decapitating your Crepes. Decapitating your Crepes every year will, over time, stress them. That’s when an insect called Crepe Myrtle Bark Scale will show up. Your Crepe will turn black because any one of a group of fungi commonly called Sooty Mold colonizes the honeydew excreted by the insects and turns the Crepe Myrtle black. The branches that do sprout following decapitation are spindly, weak, and flowers aside don’t add anything to the aesthetic of the whole tree.

Feel free to contact me at the Ouachita Parish Extension Office if you have further questions about tree care and are looking for option for replacing trees lost by damage caused by Fern.

Removing a branch at the branch collar will give the tree a better chance of sealing the wound itself.  Photo by Dr. Alex Shigo, Modern Arboriculture.

Tune in to Louisiana Living every Tuesday at 4:30 for In the Garden with Kerry Heafner of the LSU AgCenter.

Sláinte!

“S

The G” With Guinness

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

THE IMPACT OF IRISH IMMIGRANTS CAN BE SEEN ALL over the United States. From religion, cultural traditions, literature and arts, the influence of the Emerald Isle is perhaps most notable in our fervent celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.

The Day of the Festival of Saint Patrick has been celebrated since the early 17th century, when it was first observed by the Catholic Church. Saint Patrick was born in Great Britain, relocating to Ireland when he was kidnapped at 16 years old. Although he escaped, he eventually returned to Ireland, bringing Christianity with him. People began to celebrate Saint Patrick for his discovery, forming the holiday we know today as St. Patrick’s Day. St. Patrick’s Day is held annually on March 17th, which is the anniversary of Saint Patrick’s death.

St. Patrick’s Day made its way to America during the potato famine, which caused the Irish to escape and move to the United States. Irish immigrants continued to celebrate this holiday despite backlash from the American people due to their difference in religious beliefs. Eventually, St. Patrick’s Day became a popular tradition and a celebrated holiday in American culture. Celebrations generally involve green attire, shamrocks, parades, festivals, and, of course, a pint of Guinness.

St. Patrick’s Day wouldn’t be complete without a savory glass of Guinness. But have you ever wondered why Guinness is such a staple of the holiday? Arthur Guinness created the St. James’s Gate Brewery, signing a 9,000-year lease for the building. He originally dabbled in making ale but began producing a popular beer called porter. Porter was rising in popularity around Dublin at the time, and soon, Arthur Guinness decided to only brew porter. Eventually, it evolved into the dry Irish Stout it is today. Now, Guinness is one of the most popular beers in the world, making the brand stand out as a beacon of Irish culture.

The Guinness brand has also made its mark with its widget device, the small, plastic ball that sits in a Guinness beer can. If you’re a beer connoisseur, you may already know what this device is. But if you’re unfamiliar, a widget is used to keep beer tasting fresh and right from the tap – no matter when you drink it. The plastic ball contains a small hole that traps pressurized nitrogen from the canning process. Once someone opens the can, it releases the nitrogen gas, creating fresh bubbles and a great taste. Many brands of beer now use this innovative piece.

The latest cultural phenomenon involving Guinness is known as “splitting the G.” The object of the challenge is simple. In your first sip (reader, it was a gulp) of a freshly poured Guinness, you want to consume enough that, when the glass is set back down, the horizon between the residual beer and foam bisects the word “Guinness” labeled on the pint. Seems easy enough, until you factor in the layer of head that tops a perfect draft pour, and the viscosity of both the head and the beer itself. Together, they make this a formidable gulping challenge.

A quick google search will bring up a slew of videos of people of all walks of life splitting the G. Dua Lipa, anyone? Think of them as tutorials. But above all, always drink responsibly and always have a designated driver. Hot tip: Guinness also makes a non-alcoholic brew that is remarkably close to the original. So, the DD can safely split the G too!

For a fancier way to enjoy a Guinness, check out this cocktail recipe for a dark and delightful take on a traditional Old Fashioned.

GUINNESS WILDE OSCAR

Ingredients:

1.5 oz Buffalo Trace Bourbon

1 oz Guinness Draught

.5 oz Simple Syrup

Dash of Peychaud’s Bitters

Orange Peel and maraschino cherry, to garnish

Method:

Stir all ingredients in an ice filled mixing glass. Strain cocktail over a large ice cube.

Garnish with a large orange peel and maraschino cherry.

Slainte! And may all your goodbye’s be Irish!

Be sure to like Choice Brands on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and 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.

Stronger Smiles Start Here

A Permanent Solution for Missing Teeth

WHY DENTAL IMPLANTS MAY BE RIGHT FOR YOU!

Missing teeth can affect more than appearance. They can interfere with chewing, speaking clearly, and maintaining proper alignment of surrounding teeth. Over time, untreated tooth loss may even lead to bone deterioration in the jaw. Dental implants offer a durable, natural looking solution designed to restore both function and confidence.

A dental implant replaces the entire structure of a missing tooth. A small titanium post is placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial root. As the area heals, the implant fuses with the bone in a process known as osseointegration. This creates a stable foundation for a custom made crown that is designed to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth.

Unlike traditional bridges or removable dentures, implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. They remain securely in place, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile without concern about slipping or discomfort. With proper care and regular dental visits, implants can last for decades, making them one of the most reliable tooth replacement options available today.

Whether you are missing a single tooth, several teeth, or need full arch restoration, dental implants can be customized to fit your needs. A comprehensive consultation at NELA Dental will determine if implants are the right solution for you.

The Health Benefits of Replacing Missing Teeth

Tooth loss does more than create a visible gap. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth may begin to shift into the open space. This movement can lead to bite misalignment, uneven wear, and difficulty cleaning certain areas of the mouth. Over time, these issues increase the risk of decay and gum disease.

Another significant concern is jawbone loss. Natural tooth roots stimulate the jawbone every time you chew. When a tooth is removed, that stimulation stops, and the bone in that area can begin to shrink. Dental implants help prevent this process by acting like natural roots and maintaining bone density.

Replacing missing teeth also restores full chewing function. Patients are able to comfortably enjoy a balanced diet that includes nutrient rich foods, which supports overall health. In addition, teeth play an important role in speech. Replacing missing teeth with implants helps maintain clear pronunciation and natural speech patterns. Beyond physical health benefits, many patients report improved

confidence after completing implant treatment. Feeling secure in your smile can positively impact professional interactions, social situations, and daily life.

What to Expect During the Dental Implant Process

The dental implant process begins with a detailed evaluation. During your consultation at NELA Dental, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, review digital imaging, and discuss your medical history. This ensures that implants are a safe and effective option for you.

If you are a candidate, the implant post is placed into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. The area is then given time to heal as the implant integrates with the bone. This healing period is essential to create a strong, stable foundation.

After successful healing, an abutment is placed on the implant, followed by a custom crafted crown. The final result is designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth in both appearance and function.

Some patients may require preparatory treatments, such as bone grafting, if bone loss has occurred. Every treatment plan is tailored to the individual to ensure long term success and optimal results. Throughout each phase of care, our team prioritizes patient comfort and clear communication.

Routine Visits Covered With Our Membership Plan

Dental implants are an investment in your long term oral health. Maintaining regular checkups and professional cleanings is essential to protect that investment and ensure your implants remain healthy and functional.

At NELA Dental, we accept most major dental insurance plans, third party payments, and offer flexible financing options to help make treatment accessible. For patients without insurance, our membership plan provides an affordable alternative.

Our membership plans include no deductibles, no maximums, and no denials. The plan covers two exams and cleanings and one set of bite wing x rays per year, along with 20 percent off all other services. Unlike many traditional insurance plans that cap annual benefits, our membership plan offers consistent savings and predictable care.

If you are considering dental implants or would like to explore your options, our team is here to help. Call one of our convenient locations in Farmerville or Monroe to schedule your consultation today and take the next step toward restoring your smile.

BAYOU DRINK

WHAT YOU NEED:

1.5 oz Tullamore D.E.W. Original

.5 oz Amaretto

1.5 oz Apple juice

.25 oz Lemon juice

.25 oz Lime juice

.125 oz Sugar syrup

1 Sprig rosemary

1 Egg white

.25 oz Crème de mure

Add all ingredients to shaker, except crème de mure. Dry shake, add ice, then hard shake and strain into a rocks glass with ice. Sink the Crème De Mure. Add crushed ice and garnish.

* Irish green tray table and Hunt Slonem embroidered cocktail napkins from Material Things.

Cut crystal low ball glasses and silver ice bucket and tongs with horn detail from Walsworth & Company.

Botanical print with leather strap from Palette House.

The Irish Legend

While my husband thinks he’s an Irish Legend, one of his favorite whiskeys, the venerable Tullamore D.E.W., offers a fresh take on a classic whiskey sour cocktail. This beverage is complex and lightly sweet and tart with hints of rosemary, almond, apple, lemon, lime, and blackberry.

by MARÉ BRENNAN

Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

Sowing The Seeds

Styled and Written by MARÉ BRENNAN

Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

According to The Farmer’s Almanac, March 14th is Northeast Louisiana’s last average frost date with temps getting down to freezing and you know what that means? This is your signal to get growing! After the last spring frost, it is safe to start planting outdoors. A trip to your local hardware store or online seed seller can provide you with an endless variety of seeds to get started indoors.

There are several hardy, coolweather crops that can be sown directly outdoors before the last frost, including peas, spinach, radishes, carrots, onions, and lettuce. Tender crops like tomatoes and basil need warmer weather and frost-free conditions, making them perfect for starting indoors before transplanting. Using March 14th as your guide, count backward to determine when to start seeds indoors. Most seed packets include a recommended sowing timeline.

What you’ll need to get started indoors:

Seeds

Seed-starting pots or trays

Plant markers

Seed-starting mix

Seed tray with humidity dome

Spray bottle filled with water

Thoroughly moisten your seedstarting mix and fill trays or small pots. Plant seeds at the depth listed on the packet — generally as deep as the seed is tall. Tiny seeds like mustard or basil can remain uncovered or lightly covered. Label as you plant using a marker and permanent pen, since seedlings look very similar until their true leaves appear.

Keep newly planted seeds moist and warm, but not soggy. Cover with a humidity dome to retain moisture; vents allow helpful air circulation. Sunlight isn’t necessary yet, but warmth is essential. Lightly spritz only when the soil feels dry.

Once seeds sprout, move them to a sunny, preferably south-facing window. Water gently every day or two without oversaturating — young roots sit close to the surface and need only light moisture. It’s always exciting to see those first green sprouts emerge from the soil!

(The first leaves are cotyledons, part of the seed embryo that provide early nourishment. The second set are true leaves, which begin photosynthesis.)

When seedlings develop their first true leaves, transplant them into larger pots and add diluted liquid fertilizer or compost tea. They need 12–16 hours of light daily. If plants become leggy, pinch back the top growth to encourage fuller, lateral growth.

As weather permits, begin hardening off seedlings by placing them outside for several hours during the day and bringing them in at night. Once the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into your garden.

Bunnies and Butterflies

Styled and Written by MARÉ BRENNAN

Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

FOR EASTER BRUNCH, we’ve gathered a whimsical collection of tabletop delights that celebrate rebirth and renewal. A pair of bunnies are caught mid-hop amid florals in shades of pinks, greens and purples, where those bunnies have hidden a few prize eggs. Dinner plates in a spring green hue are topped with coordinating salad plates with delicate butterflies. Handblown glasses with white glass spheres are mixed with vintage green glasses. Pastel striped and ruffled napkins along with a bunny and butterfly table runner add softness, while mercury glass votives with dancing butterflies along with antique pink and crystal mantle lusters provide sparkle.

ITEMS SOURCED: Green Apple Lace by Mottahedeh dinner and salad plates, pastel egg cups and bunny centerpieces sourced from The Muffin Tin / Trenton House. Blown glass water glasses with white sphere and mint green compote with gilded edge from Palette House. Mercury glass votive holders with butterfly embellishment and butterfly and bunny linen table runner from Walsworth and Co. Striped napkins with ruffled edge and pink Hunt Slonem oval “bunny” box from Material Things. Wax flowers, tulips, lilies, hydrangea, carnations, Queen Anne’s lace sourced from Carlstedt’s

Work Is Never Done

Mostly Because I’m A Work In Progress

IT’S AN OLD SAYING THAT GETS REPEATED SO OFTEN IT starts to sound like a box fan in July: “A woman’s work is never done.”

Most people say it through a grin or a sigh. It’s something usually muttered while drying dishes or folding laundry. But the older I get, the more I realize it’s not just a saying—it’s a truth.

The work women do isn’t limited to chores and tasks that always need tending. The work I’ve seen women do is deeper than that. It’s a constant molding and shaping of the present into something better. It’s a steady hand on the wheel even when nobody is watching.

So much of what holds us together—families, classrooms, communities, businesses—has been shaped by women who simply kept showing up. I don’t know if they’d call it empowerment, but I know I’d call it doing the work.

When I think about it, a lot of the values that I try to live by—and the ones I’ve built into my company—were formed by women who were patient enough to keep working on me.

My mother, Cheryl Smith, has loved me fiercely for as long as I can remember. She has always believed in me and cheered for me. Prayed for me. Seen the good in me even when I was still trying to figure out what kind of man I’d be.

But when I was about eighteen, she told me something that stuck harder than praise ever could: “Son, you’re a great guy… but nobody knows it.” She wasn’t being harsh, just honest. I cared about people deeply, and I wanted to help. But I was introverted. Quiet. It was like I was at the visitation held for my great uncle who I had met only once before he passed. I assumed people could tell what was in my heart. They couldn’t.

It’s not enough to feel empathy. You have to show it. Say it. Step toward people and let them see it. People can’t read your mind. That truth reshaped me. And it still does. If you want to care well—at home, at work, anywhere—it has to be visible, spoken, and felt.

My mom taught me love isn’t complete until it’s expressed. She’s probably still working on that lesson with me.

In high school, Karen Sharp was my art teacher. Every Friday, we’d lay our work out for critique. What’s working? What’s not? What can be better? Sometimes she’d make us turn a drawing sideways or upside down, like looking at the world through a different window, just to catch what we missed.

She taught me something that applies far beyond an art room: critique the work, not the person. Failure wasn’t shameful. It was

information. Not everything you try will succeed. That’s fine. Fix this one. Improve the next one.

She taught me to pursue mastery without ego. To imitate excellence before trying to reinvent it. To see growth as a process, not a personality trait. That mindset still shapes how I look at everything—my leadership, my decisions, my mistakes.

I’m still laying my work out on the table.

My string bass teacher, Marjorie Stricklin—Ms. Marj—had a phrase I’ll never forget: “Practice doesn’t make perfect. Practice makes permanent. Make sure you’re practicing perfectly.” I eventually figured out the small habits you repeat become who you are.

She loved teaching young musicians. The Monroe Symphony now honors her with a young artist competition in her name. Every now and then, she’d give me a piece of her sourdough bread—the kind with a thick crust and chewy-soft inside. At the time it felt like a simple treat, but it taught me how discipline and kindness can live in the same person.

From Ms. Marj, I learned that excellence isn’t cheap or fast. It’s built slowly and intentionally. And it’s never finished.

I’ve known a lot of tough guys in my life. Men with the grit to work from dawn until they cut the lights out, then come back for more the next day. But I have never seen resilience like I’ve seen it in Juli, my wife.

I’ve watched her face professional challenges that would make most walk hopelessly away. I’ve seen her endure multiple surgeries, and I’ve watched her walk through a cancer diagnosis with steadiness that still humbles me. She didn’t pretend it wasn’t hard. She just didn’t quit.

She once took a sabbatical from teaching middle school band to care for her grandparents at the end of their lives. She gave her time, her patience, her strength without any accolades. That kind of love changes you. It’s choosing to show up again tomorrow.

A woman’s work is never done. I’ve seen that up close. In a mother who refused to let her son hide his heart. In a teacher who demanded better without diminishing the person. In a mentor who insisted on disciplined excellence. In a wife who keeps choosing courage.

They kept working. And they’re still working—because I’m still becoming.

Jerod Smith

Mike Smith Heat & Air West Monroe, LA

Seafood Shack

Brings Louisiana Flavor to Forsythe Ave.

MONROE HAS A NEW REASON TO GATHER, UNWIND, and indulge. Seafood Shack, the newest seafood restaurant in town, is making waves with bold Louisiana flavors, a welcoming atmosphere, and a menu that celebrates everything locals love. Whether you’re craving fresh oysters, boiled crawfish, or a poboy piled high, Seafood Shack delivers the kind of experience that feels both festive and familiar.

The outdoor patio space invites guests to linger under the lights, enjoy live conversations over cold drinks, and soak in the relaxed Louisiana vibe. It’s the kind of place where friends meet after work, families gather for weekend dinners, and game days turn into celebrations.

An Oyster Bar Worth Talking About - At the heart of Seafood Shack is its impressive oyster bar. Guests can enjoy raw oysters served ice-cold and brimming with fresh flavor. For those who prefer their oysters with a little flair, the grilled selections are where things truly shine.

The Classic Chargrilled Oysters are buttery and smoky, bubbling with garlic and herbs. The Fired Up Oysters, topped with crispy bacon and jalapeños, bring the heat in the best way possible. The Rockefeller variety delivers that rich, traditional blend of spinach, pepper jack and lemon juice, while the Louisiana Gold option adds a bold, flavorful twist that keeps guests coming back for more.

Whether you’re an oyster purist or someone who loves them loaded with toppings, the oyster bar is a must-visit centerpiece of the restaurant.

Boiled Seafood Done Right - Of course, no Louisiana seafood destination would be complete without a proper boil. Seafood Shack proudly serves boiled crawfish and shrimp with all the fixings—think corn, potatoes, and perfectly seasoned spices that soak into every bite.

The crawfish are juicy, tender, and generously seasoned, capturing that unmistakable Cajun flavor profile. It’s messy, it’s hands-on, and it’s exactly how it should be. Gather around a table on the patio, roll up your sleeves, and dig in.

Po’boys and Comfort Classics - Seafood Shack doesn’t stop at seafood. Their lineup of poboys offers something for everyone. Choose from: Smoked Ham, Smoked Turkey, Chicken Strip, Roast Beef and Debris.

Each sandwich is served on fresh bread and piled high with flavor. The roast beef and debris option is especially satisfying, tender and savory with rich gravy that makes every bite unforgettable.

Beyond poboys, the menu features hearty burgers and sandwiches that hit the spot. Crispy chicken strips and wings are also crowd favorites. The wings come tossed in bold sauces like Sweet Red Chili, Hot Lemon Pepper, and Garlic Parmesan, along with other rotating flavors that keep things exciting. Whether you like your wings sweet, spicy, or savory, there’s a sauce with your name on it.

Starters with Southern Personality - The appetizer menu reads like a celebration of Louisiana staples. Guests can kick off their meal with: Boudin, Boudin Eggrolls, Fried or Blackened Alligator, Muffaletta Bread, Debris Fries, Crawfish Cheesecake.

Each option delivers a punch of local flavor. The crawfish cheesecake, in particular, surprises first-timers with its creamy texture and savory Cajun seasoning. It’s bold, rich, and uniquely Southern.

Fresh Salads & Soups - For those looking for lighter fare (without sacrificing flavor), Seafood Shack offers thoughtfully crafted salads. The Wedge Salad is crisp and refreshing, while the Chargrilled Romaine Salad with Bacon Dressing brings a smoky twist that elevates every forkful.

On the soup side, guests can choose from Louisiana favorites like gumbo, étouffée, and corn & crab bisque. Each bowl is packed with depth and warmth, perfect for pairing with a sandwich or enjoying as a starter. The gumbo is hearty and rich, the étouffée silky and flavorful, and the corn & crab bisque creamy with a hint of sweetness.

Fried & Grilled Seafood Favorites - Seafood lovers will appreciate the extensive selection of fried seafood platters. Options include golden-fried oysters, shrimp, catfish, and even frog legs. Each platter is cooked to crispy perfection on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside.

Prefer something a little lighter? The grilled catfish and grilled shrimp offer a delicious alternative, seasoned just right and cooked to bring out their natural flavors.

A New Gathering Place in Monroe - The combination of an inviting patio, lively oyster bar, and diverse menu ensures there’s something for every guest. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch, hosting a family dinner, or spending a long evening cracking crawfish with friends, Seafood Shack captures the spirit of Louisiana dining: bold flavors, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Meredith’s Musings

CROWD INTERACTIONS

article by MEREDITH MCKINNIE

Ionce wrote about my fears for my children as they socially interact without me, how I winced on the playground, suppressing the impact to protect them from peer disappointment. Notably, I do not have this instinct with physical play, as I’m the last to think they shouldn’t climb or jump for fear of broken bones. Husband often wants to deny them the scrapes and bruises they need to learn body and spatial awareness - I don’t helicopter in that way. I jump in at the last possible moment when my involvement is unavoidable. Some may see it as lazy; I see it as building strong, resilient children (fingers crossed). But the childhood social interactions do intrigue me, as I remember them distinctly. I’m adept at social interaction, and I worry that my kids might not sharpen those skills in this friction-less life we’ve created for our children.

For the last few years, their social interactions were confined to school, where I was not present, or as a team when they were together in public with me. Now 8 and 6, they are separating so to speak, receiving individual birthday invitations and excited about their solo excursions. In the last two weeks, I’ve taken both girls to separate birthday parties, and since parents are required to just sit back and watch at such events, I noticed a keen difference between my two girls, and I’m fascinated.

My oldest daughter Wilder, upon entering the birthday party at a gymnastics gym,

immediately searched intently for the crowd, squeezing her way to the front and asserting her voice as if she’d been there all along. If the crowd moved, she moved, and swiftly as if it was her idea. She’s a follower in that way, never wanting to be left out. She doesn’t suppress her booming voice though, insisting on her way and outranking everyone in volume. She will shout you down one-on-one, but in a group setting her instinct is to go with the flow. She longs to be included, and should she be forgotten, she wounds easily. I watched her taking turns on the gym equipment, advancing to the next area as the group did. She inserts herself, but refuses to be left behind.

A week later, I took Little Sis Fable to her own birthday party, this time at an art studio. We arrived three minutes after starting time, and many of the children were already convening at tables and setting up art supplies. I wasn’t prepared for the onslaught, as every child rushed to Fable with excitement, screaming her name and jumping for joy at her mere presence. Fable, on the other hand, hardly noticed, giving half-hearted hugs and eyeing the wooden craft wall for her first object to paint. The crowd followed her, trading in their butterflies and emoji faces for the same birdhouse Fable selected. They mirrored her actions, jockeyed for a seat next to her, and chose the same shades of pink and blue for their birdhouses. The crowd followed Fable, and Fable couldn’t have cared less. She

methodically painted her birdhouse as intently as she builds her Legos at home, slowly, always on Fable time.

Husband and I have a funny saying about Fable that is not suitable for this publication, but summarily, Fable doesn’t care. She marches to her own beat, and even when there is no beat. She doesn’t need to be liked, and though she is, she hardly notices. She doesn’t crave attention or affection. Her stasis is self-control, emotionally regulated, calm in the chaos. Her language is humor, and if you get a smile, it’s because you noticed and acknowledged her playfulness. You have to earn her love; she makes you work for it.

Social dynamics in childhood are constantly in flux, and certain temperaments thrive in different stages. I do recognize myself in Wilder’s actions, namely the people-pleasing that inevitably results in fits of feminine rage (I’m working on this, still). I’ve always heard how radically different siblings can be, even experienced it myself, but observing from this vantage point is thrilling and intimidating. My instinct is to try and suppress in my girls the behaviors and attitudes I’d take back, but without those mistakes, I wouldn’t be me. For now, I will continue to observe with intentional restraint, letting their social interactions develop organically. They’re becoming who they’re meant to be, just as I did, and still am

Fishing With Kenny

MARCH

SPINNERBAIT CHOICES AND TECHNIQUES

article by KENNY COVINGTON

Afrom picking out a specific bait, tying it on, figuring out the best retrieve, what lure would work best, what tweaks I should make, and what I should have done differently. In the month of March, all spinnerbaits have the potential to catch fish. In this “Fishing with Kenny” article, I will give you some scenarios and situations where a blade bait might be the best lure in your tacklebox.

When I was a kid, I can remember my father giving me his cast-off spinnerbaits, as soon as I got a few of them, I started tearing them apart. I can still hear his voice inside of my head, “What are you doing?” he would inquire. “There is nothing wrong with those spinnerbaits, why can’t you just use them like they are?”

I tried to explain to him my ideas on how to make them better, much to his dismay. I vividly recall this process starting in mid-January and by the time March would roll around, I had a handful of baits that I had confidence in simply because I had built them the way I wanted. By using trail and error and using the lake down the street from my house as my laboratory, I developed a unique understanding of just how well these lures caught bass this time of year, and even better, I figured out why.

The first thing I want to discuss is spinnerbait color. By far the favorite color of most anglers is chartreuse/white and for good reason, it is a prove fish catcher. To be honest, it is the color I use the least. My four favorite spinnerbait colors for this time of year are: a perch color, firetiger, golden shiner, and blue glimmer shad. Each one is weather and lake specific but if I had to pick one to start the day with no matter what the lake, it would be the perch color.

Please note, these skirt colors are usually when I am dealing with clear or stained water situations. The one thing that can change my thought pattern on spinnerbait color is when the water turns a deep stain or muddy, but this is where blade choices dictate a change in the color of your skirt of choice.

When fishing dirtier the water, I prefer to throw a single #5 or #6 Colorado blade, just like I would if I were fishing at night. When throwing the single blade bait, I have found I do better when I use solid-colored skirts like white, black, or chartreuse. If I am throwing a black skirt, my trailer will be chartreuse. If my skirt is chartreuse, I will use a white trailer. If my skirt is white, once again my trailer will be chartreuse. Over the years I have just had better luck with contrasting colors in muddy water.

When was the last time you threw a spinnerbait with a single willow leaf blade? I have found in clearer water situations, especially

with a skirt that looks lifelike, my favorite choice is a blue glimmer shad skirt matched with a silver blade. On cloudy days I can still catch fish using the single willow leaf, but I have had better luck switching to the golden shiner skirt with a gold blade. I have found this particular lure works best when I can retrieve it just under the surface, almost waking it. The strikes can be exciting!

You may be thinking, what about cold fronts? Don’t fish become less active with the passing of a springtime cold front, making them less likely to chase down a spinnerbait? This is when a tandem spinnerbait works really well. I like a 3/8-ounce model with a smaller Colorado in front of a #4 Indiana blade, and I will slow-roll it around the shallow cover. The Indiana blade allows me to keep the bait in the strike zone longer but also, and I think more importantly, the thump of the blades gives off the impression of a bigger baitfish, making the bass more likely to strike the lure.

I almost forgot about rain showers and storms… This can be one of the best situations to throw a spinnerbait in the spring and the choice of lures is blade and color specific. First of all, if the water is clear or has some clarity, I like a double willow leaf spinnerbait, with both blades colored chartreuse. Most of this type of spinnerbait comes with a matching chartreuse skirt but I replace it with a firetiger color. I don’t have a scientific reason for this change; it has just always worked for me.

If the water is stained or muddy, and it is raining, I prefer to use a bigger ½ model with either a double Colorado or Colorado/Indiana combination. I prefer both blades to be white, but this is one of the few times I like a chartreuse/white skirt. In the off-colored water, the white tends to give off more of a glow and the chartreuse gives it contrast, making the lure much easier for the bass to find. This particular bait can be hard to find but this a situation where a good fingernail polish can work wonders when creating a technique specific lure! Grass? Try double willow blades. Shallow wood? I like double Colorado’s. A ¼ ounce spinnerbait is great for slower presentations. A ¾ ounce is great when you just need some speed. As you can see, I can go on and on about this great lure!

Well, it looks like we have run out of space and time for this month. I hope we were able to share with you some ideas on how to make your next trip to the lake more enjoyable. This time of year, can be some of the best times to be on the water, so be safe, take care and make sure you catch one for me!

Reset, Refresh, and Renew

The Medical Spa by St. Francis Medical Group

SPRING CLEANING ISN’T JUST ABOUT ORGANIZING closets and opening windows; it’s also the perfect time to reset your skincare routine. As the seasons change, so do your skin’s needs. March offers an ideal opportunity to reassess what your skin has been through over the winter and make thoughtful adjustments that support healthier, more resilient skin as you move into warmer months.

At The Medical Spa, we encourage patients to think of March as spring cleaning for the skin, clearing out what no longer serves you and refreshing your routine with intention.

Start Fresh with a Customized Skincare Routine

Winter skin is often left dehydrated, dull, or congested from cold temperatures, indoor heating and heavier products. Spring is the perfect time to either start a medical-grade skincare routine or make seasonal changes to the routine you already have.

ZO Skin Health offers a wide range of products designed to improve skin function at the cellular level. Whether you’re brand new to ZO or have been using it for years, seasonal check-ins are key. Skin changes with weather, hormones, lifestyle and age, and your skincare should evolve with it.

We can help customize a routine that fits your goals, adjust active products like exfoliants or retinol, and ensure you’re using the right combination to support skin health year-round. Regular check-ins allow us to fine-tune your regimen for the best possible results, rather than guessing or overcorrecting at home.

Sunscreen: The Non-Negotiable Step

No spring skincare reset is complete without revisiting sunscreen. While sun protection is important all year long — even in cooler months — it becomes especially critical as temperatures rise and outdoor activities increase.

Many patients skip sunscreen simply because they don’t like how it feels. The good news is that today’s options are better than ever. ZO offers multiple sunscreens that feel lightweight, blend seamlessly into the skin, and don’t have that heavy “sunscreen” feel. Finding a formula you’re willing to wear every single day is one of the most important investments you can make in your skin’s long-term health.

Consistent sunscreen use helps prevent premature aging, hyperpigmentation and skin damage, while also protecting the results of in-office treatments.

Refresh with a Peel

Spring is an excellent time for professional exfoliation. Chemical peels help remove dead skin cells, improve texture, brighten tone, and encourage healthy cell turnover.

For patients looking for a quick refresh with no downtime, the ZO Rapid Renewal Peel is a great option. This light peel instantly boosts radiance, smooths texture and leaves skin glowing, perfect for a seasonal reset or maintenance treatment.

If you’ve been using retinol consistently and are ready for more advanced correction, the ZO 3-Step Peel may be an excellent choice. This deeper peel targets stubborn pigmentation, sun damage, acne and signs of aging while stimulating collagen for long-term improvement. While it requires some recovery time, the results can be transformative when performed at the right time of year.

Microneedling for a Spring Boost

Microneedling is another powerful way to refresh the skin this season. By creating controlled micro-injuries, microneedling stimulates collagen production and improves texture, tone and overall skin quality.

This treatment can be enhanced with PRP or paired with a ZO Accelerated Serum to further support healing and results. Microneedling is a great option for patients looking to improve skin firmness, reduce fine lines and achieve a smoother, healthier complexion as spring begins.

A Clean Slate for the Season Ahead

Spring cleaning your skincare routine doesn’t mean doing everything at once; it means being intentional. Whether that’s starting a ZO routine, adjusting products seasonally, committing to daily sunscreen or refreshing your skin with professional treatments, small changes now can make a big difference by summer.

March is your chance to reset, refresh, and set your skin up for success, inside and out. 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 Street, suite 406, across from the St. Francis Medical Center. This location offers complimentary valet parking and convenient curbside pick-up 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.

Ouachita Green Announces Award

Heart of Service Award

OUACHITA GREEN IS PROUD TO announce the launch of the Heart of Service Award, a new award honoring the legacies of respected community leaders Jack Clampit and Lisa Talton Richardson, whose dedication to service, stewardship, and environmental responsibility made a lasting impact throughout Ouachita Parish.

Beginning in 2026, Ouachita Green will recognize two outstanding graduating high school seniors each year — one female and one male — who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to community service and environmental stewardship.

The Heart of Service Award celebrates students whose volunteer efforts reflect OuachitaGreen’s core mission and pillars:

• Litter Abatement – Supporting initiatives to reduce and eliminate litter in the community

• Environmental Education – Promoting

environmental awareness and sustainable practices

• Recycling – Encouraging and expanding recycling programs

• Beautification – Enhancing public spaces through cleanups, plantings, and projects that foster community pride

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a high school senior graduating during the 2025–2026 school year

• Reside in Ouachita Parish

• Demonstrate a strong history of volunteerism or service aligned with Ouachita Green’s mission

Application Requirements: Students must submit:

• A completed application form

• One letter of recommendation from a teacher, mentor, or community leader

• Optional supporting materials such as photos, project summaries, or media coverage 2026 Award Timeline:

• Submission Deadline: Friday, February 27, 2026

• Award Presentation: Monday, April 20, 2026 (Recipients must be present to receive the award.)

Ouachita Green encourages educators, school administrators, families, and community members to share this opportunity with students who demonstrate leadership, compassion, and a commitment to improving their community and environment. “This award honors the spirit of service exemplified by Jack Clampit and Lisa Talton Richardson while encouraging the next generation of environmental leaders,” said Ouachita Green’s Sheila Kay Downhour. “We are excited to recognize students who are already making a meaningful difference in Ouachita Parish.” Applications and supporting materials should be submitted by email to info@ ouachitagreen.org with the subject line: Heart of Service Application – [Student Name] For additional information and application details, visit:

https://ouachitagreen.org/event/ heartofservice/

A Holy Week Experience

Come to the Table at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church

HOLY WEEK INVITES US INTO THE VERY HEART OF our faith—the story of God’s love revealed through Jesus’ final days, his table fellowship, his acts of service, and his command to love one another. It is a week filled with deep meaning and sacred moments. This year, we are creating a family-friendly Holy Week experience that welcomes people of all ages into that story in a meaningful, hands-on, and joy-filled way.

On Wednesday, April 1st, you are invited to gather for a Last Supper-style worship service, thoughtfully adapted so families can participate in Jesus’s final Passover meal with his disciples. The evening will begin with an Easter Egg Hunt for children at 5:30 pm, offering a fun and welcoming start that helps our youngest members feel included and excited to be part of Holy Week.

After the hunt, at 6:00 pm, families and individuals will transition into a time of worship, a shared meal, storytelling, and holy play centered on the table where Jesus gathered with his disciples.

This will not be a traditional sit-and-watch service. Instead, it will be an interactive evening of worship, conversation, and handson learning. At the heart of the evening will be a Seder-inspired meal, helping us explore the deep connection between the Jewish Passover and the meal Jesus shared with his disciples on the night he gave them a new commandment: “Love one another, just as I have loved you.” Through simple foods, guided explanations, and storytelling that is accessible to children and meaningful for adults, we will remember how God’s saving work stretches across generations— and how we are invited into that story today.

You do not need any prior knowledge about Maundy Thursday, the Last Supper, or a Seder meal to participate. Everything will be clearly explained so everyone can follow along. Whether you are new to church or have observed Holy Week for years, there will be space for you to engage in a fresh and meaningful way.

This experience is intentionally intergenerational. Children will not be asked to sit quietly on the sidelines, nor will adults be asked to simplify their faith. Instead, we will learn from one another. There will be moments of laughter and conversation alongside moments of reverence and reflection, allowing everyone to encounter the story of Holy Week in a way that speaks to both heart and mind.

Why gather this way during Holy Week? Because Holy Week is not only about remembering what Jesus did long ago—it is about discovering how we are called to live now. Around the table, Jesus

welcomed friends, washed feet, and offered himself in love. This evening invites us to slow down and reflect on how we are called to love one another in our families, our church, and our wider community. It is especially well-suited for families who may feel unsure about bringing children to traditional Holy Week services, as well as adults who long for worship that engages both heart and body.

If you are looking for a more traditional Holy Week experience, we invite you to our Chancel Choir’s cantata, “Behold the Lamb,” paired with a dramatic reading of the Passion narrative on Thursday, April 2nd, at 6:00 pm. This contemplative service will guide us deeper into Christ’s suffering and sacrificial love as we prepare our hearts for Easter.

After walking through the story of the Passion, we will gather again to celebrate the joy of resurrection. Easter Sunday begins with a Sunrise Service at 7:00 am led by our youth, followed by a churchwide breakfast at 7:30 am. We will then celebrate Christ’s resurrection in our traditional worship service at 9:00 am and our contemporary worship service at 11:00 am, each proclaiming the good news of the empty tomb and the hope and new life we have in Jesus Christ.

This Holy Week is an invitation—to gather, to remember, to lament, to celebrate, and to worship together. Whether you come with children, grandchildren, friends, or on your own, you will find a place at the table and a community ready to walk this sacred story with you.

Mark your calendar for Wednesday, April 1st, beginning with the Easter Egg Hunt at 5:30 pm, followed by Worship and Dinner at 6:00 pm. Then join us on April 2nd, at 6:00 pm for the cantata “Behold the Lamb.” All of it culminates in the joy of Easter morning at 7, 9, and 11.

Come experience Holy Week in a way that is welcoming, memorable, and deeply rooted in the love of Christ. There is a place waiting for you.

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church is located at 1901 Lexington Avenue in Monroe

BayouLife Magazine’s Leading Ladies honors these women who have made an impact in Northeast Louisiana through their volunteerism, leadership, and personal achievements. Articles by Vanelis Rivera

leading Ladies

HIWATHA COLEMAN

With more than 35 years of service as a federal employee and two decades as a Mary Kay consultant and devoted pastor’s wife, Hiwatha Coleman has long been a woman committed to serving others. In 2023, she stepped fully into her entrepreneurial calling, launching a new chapter as an etiquette consultant and chef, a path that beautifully blends her passion for hospitality, culture, and personal development. Through her brand, Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC® , affectionately known through her DBA persona “Granny Watha,” she is equipped to serve the masses physically, spiritually, and mentally.

Coleman’s list of accomplishments reflects both excellence and intentional growth. In 2024, she was named a Best of the Ark-La-Miss nominee and a National Restaurant Association Scholarship recipient. In 2025, she earned the distinguished title of Etiquette Consultant of the Year from The Inside Out School of Etiquette and achieved BBB A+ Accreditation alongside a 5.0 Google rating. A graduate of the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts with a 4.11 GPA in Hospitality and Restaurant Operations Management, she was nominated as a commencement speaker, a testament to her leadership and academic excellence. Her continued studies include honors with The Tea and Herbal Association of Canada, further positioning her as an aspiring tea sommelier and cultural curator.

Beyond business, Coleman’s community presence is expansive. She serves as Director of The Next Level Christian Cotillion, Etiquette Liaison for Queens of Tomorrow and MUZE Modeling, and an ambassador and mentor for the Auguste Escoffier Alumni Association. As NBC/Fox Resident Chef for “Treat Yourself Tuesday” and “Louisiana Living,” she shares her culinary talents with a broader audience while promoting culture and civility through etiquette education.

Her holistic approach to mentorship empowers students of all ages, expanding their palates and refining their confidence. By invoking the warmth and wisdom of “Granny Watha,” she creates safe, nurturing spaces that elevate others to their fullest potential.

Hiwatha Coleman embodies the spirit of a BayouLife Leading Lady, cultivating grace, leadership, and excellence throughout Northeast Louisiana and beyond.

DR. KEMA DAWSON-ROBINSON

Born and raised in Monroe, Louisiana, Dr. Kema

Dawson-Robinson has built her life around service, scholarship, and leadership. A proud product of the community she now serves, she is a Speech and Debate teacher at Neville High School, where she also teaches ACT Prep and African American Studies. In every classroom, she works to instill confidence, sharpen critical thinking skills, and cultivate cultural awareness in her students. Beyond the school walls, she serves as Assistant Director of the BOOM Youth Fraternity, mentoring young men in leadership and scholarship, and faithfully leads as Youth Director, Youth Choir Director, and Media Ministry Director at First Missionary Baptist Church.

Dawson-Robinson’s commitment to community once extended into public office, where she served as Monroe City Council Member for District 5. During her tenure, she spearheaded economic development initiatives and organized community cleanups, always focused on sustainable growth and neighborhood pride. Among her most impactful accomplishments was founding the Divine 9 Cultural Arts District, an initiative designed to celebrate cultural legacy organizations while fostering unity, collaboration, and economic opportunity. The project became both a symbol of shared heritage and a catalyst for continued development.

Her leadership philosophy is rooted in a simple belief: exposure changes outcomes. Passionate about developing young leaders, especially those who may not yet see their own potential, she understands that mentorship and affirmation can transform generations. Civic leadership strengthened her resolve, teaching her that every decision carries real consequences for real people. She leads with intention, transparency, and a deep sense of stewardship.

Navigating leadership as a woman in spaces where expectations can be limiting has only sharpened her voice and strengthened her resolve. Inspired by the example of her parents, Dr. King and Emma Dawson, she embraces servant leadership grounded in faith, discipline, and accountability.

An active member of the Monroe Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she is also a devoted wife to LeBrone E. Robinson and proud mother of King Dawson, II. For Dr. Kema Dawson-Robinson, leadership and service are not separate callings, they are one and the same.

MELANIE MASSEY-GROVES

For more than three decades, Melanie Massey Groves has built a career defined by healing, leadership, and heart. A licensed Physical Therapist with over 30 years of experience, she is the founder and owner of five thriving physical therapy clinics that have become trusted healthcare resources throughout the region. Her commitment to helping people return to the activities they love has restored not only mobility, but confidence and quality of life for countless families.

An entrepreneur at heart, Groves expanded her impact beyond clinical care by founding MoCo Leadership, a leadership development company dedicated to cultivating confident, values, driven leaders. Through corporate trainings, workshops, and executive coaching, she equips individuals and organizations with practical tools for growth and success. Small businesses, churches, nonprofits, schools, and industries throughout the region and state have trusted Melanie to create strong, positive, cohesive teams.

Her professional excellence has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Lead and Lift Award from the John Maxwell Leadership Team in 2018, the Small Business Award from the WMWO Chamber of Commerce in 2019, and the Johnny Huntsman Entrepreneurial Success Award in 2023. Each accolade reflects not only business achievement, but her lasting influence on the community she serves.

Groves’s service extends well beyond her businesses. She is a founder and past board member of Families Helping Families and currently serves on the boards of MedCamps of Louisiana and the Living Well Foundation. She consistently invests her time and leadership where it is needed most.

She is also the owner and contributing artist at MoJoy Studio, where hundreds of children attend summer and year-round art camps. Melanie combines her love of creativity with teaching classes for women, including “Word of the Year” and vision board workshops, helping others plan and pursue their highest potential.

Known for her bold presence and dynamic leadership, Melanie leads with vision, energy, and authenticity, always putting people first.

Melanie Massey Groves exemplifies what it means to be a BayouLife Leading Lady, serving with compassion, building with purpose, and strengthening her community through every life she touches.

MERYL KENNEDY FARR

Hailing from the village of Mer Rouge, Louisiana, Meryl Kennedy Farr is the youngest of four daughters. In 2010, she graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in International Affairs and a minor in Spanish. At one point, she had the opportunity to attend the prestigious Oxford University in England, but opted out, choosing instead to return to Louisiana and assist her father with the family rice business, Kennedy Rice Mill, LLC. Currently, she serves as President and Managing Partner, overseeing a wide range of operations including rice farming, drying, milling, distribution, grain storage, grain marketing, and land management. With her assistance, the business successfully implemented sustainably grown and organic products into the retail rice market. In 2016, she learned of a closing business in her community and decided to acquire the assets of a cookie dough manufacturing company, becoming owner and CEO of Neighbors, LLC in West Monroe.

Farr’s spirited diligence has spanned her career. At the age of 21, she successfully led the start-up and development of Kennedy Rice Mill, LLC, one of the few modern constructed rice mills in the United States in the last quarter-century. This endeavor focused on creating a modern rice milling facility, consequently setting new industry standards for quality and innovation in the field. As a result, she has received multiple awards, including “Business Innovative Leadership Award” in 2018 and “Manufacturer of the Year” in 2019, both from the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry. These advanced implementations in packaging capabilities helped pave the way for the launch of the 4Sisters Rice brand. Plus, she is the first female president of Kennedy Rice Mill, LLC. Her revitalization efforts and Neighbors, which included a focus on quality and community impact, contributed to the company becoming a trusted name in the industry. There, she earned the “Thomas H. Scott” Large Business of the Year Award and was also recognized by Louisiana Economic Development with the “Lantern Award” for excellence in Northeast Louisiana manufacturing.

Those who know Farr not only consider her a dedicated entrepreneur and advocate for sustainable food systems, but also a loving wife and mother of three.

LISA HOLYFIELD

Lisa Holyfield is a driving force behind real estate development and community advancement in Northeast Louisiana. A visionary with both business acumen and a servant’s heart, she has played an instrumental role in cultivating opportunities that strengthen the region’s economic and educational landscape.

Among her most notable achievements is her role as a partner in Holyfield, LLC, where she helps guide real estate and business development on Tower Drive and across Northeast Louisiana that creates jobs, enhances infrastructure, and fosters long-term growth. When she moved back to Monroe with her family, she brought a mindset from world and cultural experiences that could brighten the community so many already love and cherish. She focused on Tower Place, a multifaceted office building that has evolved into a dynamic work and community asset. She had a vision to elevate the Tower Drive corridor by converting vacant shopping center spaces into a Lifestyle Center at the Shoppes on Tower. Her involvement with the creation of Delta Biscuit Company and Apero Restaurant further reflects her commitment to cultivating community spaces that bring people together. She is also a co-owner of The Trove, a unique retail space that includes wine, spirits, and curated gifts.

Lisa’s passion for education is equally impactful. She has been a strong advocate for the NELA Teacher Symposium, helping provide meaningful professional development opportunities for educators across the region.

Her community involvement is extensive. Lisa actively supports and serves alongside organizations such as United Way, St. Christopher Educational Fund, Legacy Color Run, Monroe Chamber of Commerce, University of Louisiana Monroe Women’s Symposium, Women of Ouachita and, among many other initiatives that strengthen families and expand opportunity.

The drive, compassion, and leadership Lisa brings to every endeavor are grounded in a genuine love for her family and her community. She has a remarkable gift for bringing people together, uniting business leaders, educators, and advocates around a shared vision for progress and community elevation. She leads with generosity, steadiness, and intentionality.

Lisa Holyfield exemplifies the heart of a BayouLife Leading Lady. She does not simply talk about improving her community, she puts her heart into action, ensuring Northeast Louisiana continues to grow, thrive, and lead into the future.

KELSEY LAUDENHEIMER

With a steady determination and a sharp financial mind, Kelsey Laudenheimer, CPA, has built a career defined by discipline, growth, and service. After beginning her professional journey at KPMG, she returned to North Louisiana and quickly rose through the ranks in every organization she joined. She first served as controller at Lincoln Builders before spending eight years with Scott Equipment, where her leadership expanded beyond accounting. In addition to controller, she held the roles of Chief Credit Officer and Vice President for Scott Financial Services, proof of her ability to master both financial strategy and executive oversight.

Today, Laudenheimer serves as controller at Control Management Agency (CMA), a management company providing services to over 70 entities, including real estate ventures and internationally recognized brands such as Nuby, Dr. Talbot’s, and Louisiana Stone. Her ability to work her way from entry-level roles to top financial leadership positions speaks to both her work ethic and expertise. Passing the CPA exam on her first attempt remains one of her proudest professional milestones.

Yet for Kelsey, success is measured by more than titles. She is deeply committed to community engagement, currently serving as Treasurer of Temple B’nai Israel, advisor to the Kappa Delta Sorority at University of Louisiana Monroe, and Fund Development Board member for The Center for Children and Families. She has volunteered extensively with United Way, the NELA Food Bank, and LifeShare blood drives, and previously served as Vice President of Fund Development for the Junior League of Monroe. Her leadership earned her recognition as a Top 20 Under 40 Young Professional by the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, along with multiple honors from ULM for her service to Greek Life.

A devoted mentor, Kelsey invests personally in the young women she advises, offering both professional guidance and life counsel. An asset to Northeast Louisiana, she is a respected business leader whose greatest achievement may be the way she consistently gives back, outworking expectations and uplifting others along the way.

DR. KELLY LODGEN

For Dr. Kelly Lodgen, rural medicine isn’t simply a profession, it’s a legacy. Raised in Winnsboro, she grew up watching her father, Dr. Charles Reed, care for generations of families after founding his clinic in 1988. His example instilled in her a servant’s heart and a deep respect for small-town healthcare. After completing her Family Medicine residency at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, she returned home in 2018, determined to carry that legacy forward while expanding what rural medicine could look like.

Today, Dr. Lodgen serves as a physician at Winnsboro Medical Clinic, a designated Rural Health Clinic, where she helped guide the transition to this new status to secure long-term healthcare access for the parish. At the same time, she bridges the gap between primary care and modern aesthetics as Medical Director of Winnsboro Medical Spa, which she founded in 2022. Her vision was clear: local patients should not feel compelled to travel to Dallas or other metropolitan areas for advanced aesthetic and wellness services. Instead, she brought that level of care home.

To ensure world-class outcomes, Dr. Lodgen has invested in elite national training with industry leaders across the country, including injectable cadaver training in Oregon and preceptorships in Dallas, Houston, and Tampa. By elevating clinical standards, she has transformed Winnsboro into a regional destination, drawing patients from Ruston to Vicksburg and Alexandria to Natchez. Her impact extends well beyond medicine. An active member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Med Spa Association, she also served three years on the Board of Directors for the Princess Theatre and remains a corporate Gold Sponsor. She supports ULM Football and sponsors athletic programs throughout Franklin Parish and surrounding communities.

Dr. Lodgen leads with an education-first mindset, investing heavily in national training for her team and mentoring women to build highlevel medical careers close to home. She represents a new era of rural leadership, honoring tradition while boldly raising the standard of care for her community.

TERRI HOOVER ODOM

Terri Hoover Odom is an adoption attorney who has defined her life’s work by the principles of leadership, service, and a profound commitment to supporting and strengthening families across Louisiana. For nearly four decades, she has helped create countless families quietly, faithfully, and with loving compassion. Her work is not merely professional; it is deeply personal. From building families to supporting mothers through unplanned pregnancies, she approaches her calling with integrity, empathy, and an unwavering respect for every individual involved in the adoption process. Those close to her have witnessed the grace and purpose Terri extends to those she serves.

Terri Odom has built a law practice grounded in excellence and ethics, earning the trust of judges, fellow attorneys, social workers, and countless families throughout the state. Due to her deep knowledge of adoption law in addition to her compassion for expectant mothers and families alike, she has earned the status of trusted guide, particularly in moments that require both legal precision and human sensitivity. Alongside her daughter, who is also an attorney, they have expanded their practice to South Louisiana, to fully serve families and mothers across the entire state.

Those who have worked alongside “Mrs. Terri” testify to her love for Jesus, her steadfast spirit of service and the level to which it is woven into her practice. Her legacy is firmly established, not just in the families she has helped, but in the lives she has touched and the example she has set.

SHEILA SNOW

Sheila Snow has over two decades of experience supporting organizational growth through thoughtful strategy, clear communication, and strong teams. With a background in public administration and leadership in marketing and communications, she has focused her work to successfully align mission, people, and systems to support sustainable impact. From leading teams through growth and change to developing processes that foster collaboration, she has maintained mission-driven leadership grounded in stewardship, long-term thinking, and service. As Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Discover Monroe-West Monroe, she helps share the stories of Ouachita Parish, effectively driving meaningful economic impact for the community.

Her many accolades include leading the 2020 rebrand of Discover Monroe-West Monroe, developing an award-winning visitor’s guides and key promotional campaigns, being named a 2019 Northeast Louisiana Top 20 Under 40 honoree, and receiving the 2015 American Advertising Federation Silver Medal from the Ad Club of Northeast Louisiana for outstanding contributions to the industry. Clearly, her involvement has had a meaningful and lasting impact on our community. Her central role in creating and sharing authentic local stories, highlighting the people and places that make the parish unique, has helped foster a stronger shared identity and momentum around growth.

Beyond professional achievements, she has been known to lead with humility and purpose by mentoring her teams, empowering creativity, and investing in the development of others. Known for creating spaces for people to grow, innovate, and pursue their goals, her leadership style strengthened not just an organization, but the people in it. She has pushed others to pursue certifications, leadership opportunities, and career goals they may not have believed were possible. By modeling servant leadership, her team is stronger, more confident, and better equipped to lead in their own light.

MALLORY SANCHEZ

Mallory Sanchez, a native of West Monroe, graduated from the University of Louisiana at Monroe as a flute performance major in 2012, and then enrolled at the University of Houston by way of Moores School of Music, where she also studied flute performance, eventually graduating with a master’s degree. She shares her formidable music talent as second chair for the Monroe Symphony Orchestra. She is also a Physician Liaison and Director of Marketing at Louisiana Pain Care and an active member of her faith fellowship at Bayou Oaks Baptist Church. Known by many for her determined and persistent nature, these admirable qualities have become best exemplified in her passion and ministry as a jiu jitsu instructor. She currently holds a brown belt in the martial art (the highest ranking belt before black) and is head instructor for the kids program at Gracie Jiu Jitsu North Monroe. As a teacher, she is known for creating a positive and supportive environment that helps kids grow and become more confident. Many of her students boast about her ability to encourage them, particularly when class gets difficult. Additionally, Sanchez has spearheaded women’s self-defense classes and workshops with the intention of helping women feel empowered and supported, which is crucial in a male-dominated environment like jiu jitsu. Women who have trained with Sanchez consider her a kind, caring, selfless, and encouraging teacher. Leading with the principles of her Christian faith, she aims to lead with love and create a welcoming and peaceful space for her students.

Mentor, teacher, and overall tough cookie, Sanchez is an advocate for uplifting the most vulnerable in our community.

PATIENCE TALLEY

Aproud native of Monroe, Patience A. Talley has built her life and career around one guiding principle: service above self. As Campus Director for Louisiana Delta Community College, she provides strategic leadership for the Ruston and Jonesboro campuses, advancing student success, accreditation priorities, and long-term institutional growth across Northeast Louisiana. Talley’s professional path reflects her deep investment in people and community. Her background includes leadership roles in community affairs with the City of Monroe and student affairs at the University of Louisiana Monroe. A graduate of Louisiana State University, where she proudly served as an LSU Cheerleader, she later earned her master’s degree from ULM, further grounding her commitment to higher education and student development.

In this season of her life, Talley is most passionate about creating transformational spaces where individuals feel seen, supported, and inspired. “Leadership is not just a title,” she says. “It’s about service.” That calling first took root during a hospital visit as a college cheerleader, when she witnessed how a simple act of kindness could bring light into someone’s darkest moment. The experience ignited a lifelong dedication to philanthropy and civic engagement.

Her impact spans organizations such as the Twin Cities Rotary, the Junior League of Monroe, and regional initiatives supporting youth development and women’s empowerment. She is especially proud of her work with the Women’s Symposium, having served on the board for seven years and chaired the 2024 event, helping create life-changing experiences for women across the region.

Recognized in 2021 by the National Recreation and Park Association as a Top 30 Under 30 professional for advancing health and wellness in underserved communities, Talley’s leadership has required long hours, collaboration, and personal sacrifice, all rooted in her faith.

She and her husband, Pastor DeRon L. Talley, co-own Key Marketing Solutions and worship at St. Joseph Missionary Baptist Church, where he serves as pastor. Together, they are raising three children while modeling servant leadership at home and in the community.

BayouLife’s Inaugural Leading Lady, Patience Talley leads with grace, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to lift others higher.

JOYCE SIMS

For more than 15 years, Joyce Sims has woven creativity, resilience, and community into the fabric of Northeast Louisiana. A longtime entrepreneur, she first opened Material Things, a home décor and gift boutique known for its curated, one-of-a-kind finds and personalized customer service. What began as a retail space quickly became something more, destination where customers felt known, valued, and inspired. During the uncertainty of the early pandemic, when many businesses were pulling back, Joyce chose to expand. She launched The Haberdashery, a fabric, needlepoint, and sewing supply shop that filled a significant gap in the local market. By connecting the two spaces, she created a vibrant creative hub offering fabric, needlepoint supplies, sewing machine repair, and hands-on classes. What started as a leap of faith quickly found its niche, drawing a devoted community of stitchers and makers from across the region.

Joyce’s leadership in the quilting and needlework world of North Louisiana has brought generations together. Long before sewing and needlepoint experienced a national resurgence, she was already championing these time-honored skills. Through children’s sewing classes, needlepoint workshops, and open creative sessions, she mentors beginners and seasoned makers alike, generously sharing her knowledge and encouraging confidence. Her shop has also become home to mahjong groups and lessons, once again expanding her space into a gathering place for connection and friendship.

Beyond retail, Joyce actively supports local makers and small entrepreneurs by hosting popups and offering space to showcase their work. She also gives generously to numerous nonprofit organizations, quietly supporting causes that strengthen families and uplift the community. The network she has cultivated through The Haberdashery is more than a customer base, it is a circle of friendships built on shared creativity and encouragement.

A cancer survivor, devoted wife to Robert, and proud mother and grandmother, Joyce leads with grace, attention to detail, and an unassuming warmth that immediately puts others at ease. Her style and spirit touch everyone who walks through her doors.

Joyce Sims exemplifies the heart of a BayouLife Leading Lady, innovative, generous, and deeply committed to bringing people together through creativity and community.

leading Ladies PATTI THURMON

Patti Thurmon has built a company that reflects Northeast Louisiana’s deep love of sports, grounded in purpose, integrity, and longterm impact. Since founding Bayou Jamb, LLC in 2006, she has grown what began as a single football jamboree into one of the region’s premier sports marketing platforms, serving schools, athletes, families, and business partners across Northeast Louisiana.

Married for 30 years to Christopher Thurmon and the proud mother of three adult children, Case, Payten, and Brodie, Patti’s connection to this work is personal. Her children were raised in local schools and athletic programs, and she experienced firsthand the discipline, pride, and life lessons sports instill. That foundation helped shape Bayou Jamb into more than an event company, it became a year-round movement that fuels school spirit, celebrates athletes, and reinvests directly into local school systems.

Today, Bayou Jamb creates and executes premier sporting events, drives sponsorship sales, and builds strategic brand partnerships. The organization works closely with athletic departments to generate new revenue streams, elevate the student-athlete experience, and provide meaningful exposure opportunities. At the same time, Bayou Jamb helps area businesses connect with passionate sports audiences in measurable and impactful ways.

The impact is substantial. The Bayou Jamb Football Jamboree represents 20 high schools, impacts more than 3,000 football athletes, includes 1,500 band students and 500 cheer and spirit athletes, welcomes over 25,000 fans, and awards $20,000 in scholarships. Baseball and Softball Jamborees impact more than 1,200 athletes combined and award additional scholarships. The Bayou Jamb Sports Awards serves 30 schools, honors hundreds of student-athletes and coaches, and provides further scholarship opportunities. Each year, Bayou Jamb reinvests more than $300,000 back into local school systems, strengthening programs, supporting students, and keeping every dollar working inside the community.

Spring at Fabulous Fabric

Where Your Pinterest Boards Come to Life

SPRING OFTEN BRINGS THE URGE TO OPEN THE windows, clear the clutter, and rethink the spaces that shape everyday life. Located on Lamy Lane in Monroe, Fabulous Fabric provides a welcoming, hands-on place to begin that process. When you walk through the door you might be overwhelmed with endless choices, the shop focuses on guidance, quality materials, and thoughtful coordination—helping each project move from a simple idea to a finished room that feels intentional and livable.

Inside, visitors will find far more than bolts of fabric. Custom drapery, bedding, upholstery, trim, wallpaper, rugs, and readymade decorative pillows are all part of the design conversation. Some clients arrive with saved inspiration photos or carefully curated Pinterest boards, while others are just beginning to explore what their home could become. In either case, the team works side by side with customers to build a cohesive vision board, ensuring every color, texture, and pattern connects naturally across the entire space.

This season’s design direction leans toward soft, grounded greens paired with classic neutrals and layered textures—choices that feel calm, fresh, and easy to live with beyond spring. Structured window treatments, durable upholstery for active households, and carefully chosen accents allow beauty and function to exist together. Each recommendation is shaped not only by appearance, but by how a room will truly be used day after day.

There is also growing interest in elevated, designer-quality textiles, including respected collections from Thibaut, Kravet, Lee Jofa, Schumacher, Stroheim, Brunschwig & Fils and other highend sources often associated with larger design markets. Having access to these materials locally allows customers to see and feel the difference in person, compare options with confidence, and receive straightforward advice before making an investment. If a particular look has been spotted online, it can often be sourced—or closely matched—right here in town.

What ultimately defines Fabulous Fabric is its commitment to personal service. From the earliest planning stages to the final installed detail, the focus remains on creating spaces that reflect the people who live in them. For small seasonal updates or full-room transformations, spring is a natural time to begin—and the right support may be closer than expected, waiting just down the street on Lamy Lane.

As the months ahead bring brighter days and renewed energy, many homeowners find inspiration in even the smallest design changes. Whether refreshing a single room or reimagining an entire home, thoughtful details and trusted guidance can turn seasonal inspiration into lasting comfort and beauty that carries well beyond spring.

Time for a Dental Checkup?

Refresh Your Smile This March

AT BAYOU DENTAL GROUP, WE BELIEVE SPRING

is the perfect time for a fresh start — and that includes your smile. Just as you declutter your home and reset your routines this time of year, prioritizing your oral health can set the tone for a confident, healthy season ahead.

Ideally, patients should visit the dentist twice a year for routine cleanings and exams. However, we understand how quickly life can fill up with work, school, family commitments, and packed schedules. If dental visits have slipped down your to-do list, March is a great time to get back on track.

Whether it’s been a few months or a few years since your last appointment, there’s no judgment here — only support. Dental anxiety, busy calendars, or uncertainty about oral health can keep many people away, but professional dental care plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy smile long-term.

That’s why Dr. David Finley, Dr. PJ Henderson, and our experienced hygienists at Bayou Dental Group in Monroe, LA, encourage patients to make spring 2026 the season they recommit to their dental health.

Gum disease often develops quietly, without noticeable symptoms, until it causes significant damage. Regular dental checkups allow issues to be detected early — before they become more complex or costly.

Our Monroe dental office is equipped with advanced technology and a highly trained team to provide thorough, comfortable care. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup from areas brushing and flossing can’t reach, helping protect both your teeth and gums.

Drs. Finley and Henderson perform comprehensive exams using digital X-rays and modern diagnostic tools to identify concerns that may not be visible to the naked eye. We also offer preventive treatments such as fluoride and dental sealants for added protection — even for adults.

These routine visits are essential for preserving a vibrant, healthy smile and preventing long-term oral health issues. Daily brushing and flossing are important, but they’re only part of the equation. True prevention requires consistent professional care.

At Bayou Dental Group, our mission is to partner with you in achieving lasting oral health. Regular checkups and cleanings ensure your at-home efforts are supported by expert care, helping you maintain a strong, confident smile through every season. This spring, take charge of your dental health. Schedule your next checkup today and step into March 2026 with a smile that feels as fresh as the season.

Welcome to Dilladega

Hamburg Gears Up for the World Famous Armadillo Festival

EACH YEAR, THE SMALL TOWN OF Hamburg, Arkansas hosts its World Famous Armadillo Festival. With a NASCAR-inspired theme dubbed “Dilladega,” the celebration brings together music lovers, families, shoppers, and longtime locals for a weekend that blends tradition with full-throttle fun.

Vendors will be serving up festival favorites and local flavors, while a nightly carnival lights up the square. Live music takes center stage on Friday and Saturday night, and Saturday morning marks the main event, when vendors from across the region set up shop around the Hamburg Square starting at 8 a.m.

A Festival That Fuels the Town

The Armadillo Festival isn’t just a beloved tradition—it’s the largest event of the year. Over the course of the week, an estimated 8,000 visitors make their way to Hamburg.

More than anything, the festival creates a shared sense of celebration. Neighbors reunite,

visitors discover a small corner of the state they might otherwise miss, and the town square becomes a gathering place filled with music, food, and laughter.

A Full Week of Fun

-The festival kicks off Wednesday night with the opening of the carnival and Dillo Praise, a worship event led by local churches on the square.

-Thursday night brings a crowd favorite— Armband Night—where attendees can enjoy unlimited carnival rides from 6–10 p.m. with the purchase of a $25 armband.

-Music lovers won’t want to miss Friday night, featuring festival staple Mr. Cabbagehead & the Screaming Radishes, followed by the Jack Wharff Band, whose music has been featured on the hit show Landman.

-Saturday night revs things up even more, with Sterling Elza opening for Texas country favorite Stoney LaRue. All concerts are free to the public—just bring a lawn chair and plan to

arrive early, especially on Saturday. Reserved front-row seating is available for festival sponsors. Diamond-level sponsors enjoy festival swag, carnival tickets, reserved seating with food and drinks, and even a meet-and-greet with the artist.

Saturday also features the Armadillo Weigh-In and Race, taking place around noon on the square.

A Tradition Nearly a Century in the Making

The Armadillo Festival traces its roots back to the 1930s, when Hamburg men would travel to an island in eastern Ashley County to hunt armadillos.

In 1970, the Hamburg Kiwanis Club took things to the next level by inviting famed storyteller Jerry Clower to perform, officially launching the first Armadillo Festival.

How to Support Hamburg

One of the best ways to support this small town and its signature celebration is by purchasing an official World Famous Armadillo Festival T-shirt. Shirts and festival information are available at www.hamburgchamber.com.

For updated schedules, maps, and show times, follow the Hamburg Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook or visit the website.

One thing’s for sure—when the Armadillo Festival rolls into town, Hamburg is the place to be!

Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC®

La Femme; Exhibiting Peace and Prosperity

MARCH IS THE MONTH OF CHANGE.

The deadness of winter digresses, as the earth awakens to the joy of spring. Such a befitting time to uplift and celebrate the 2026 National Women’s History Alliance theme: “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” This is a perfect opportunity to recognize the amazing contributions of women nationally and globally.

Women’s History Month began as a weeklong celebration in Santa Rosa, California, in 1978, blossoming into a national observance by 1987. Today, we must realize that the contributions of women fashioned the dynamics of our nation.

From Harriet Tubman’s courageous journeys to Susan B. Anthony’s fight for suffrage, from Rosa Parks’ quiet defiance to Eleanor Roosevelt’s advocacy for human rights, America’s tapestry is rich with diverse heroines. We celebrate Sacagawea, Maya Angelou, Dolores Huerta, and Patsy Mink—women of color whose

legacies inspire generations (backintimetoday. com).

This year, I feel honored to become one of them. On October 25, 2025, I was chosen as the student-nominated speaker by the Chef Instructors at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts graduation in Austin, Texas. During the ceremony, I shared my personal story and celebrated the achievements in culinary arts. In that same month, From The Inside Out School of Etiquette in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, honored me as their Etiquette Consultant of the Year.

Suggested Events - Ask women in your community to submit recipes and create a community cookbook for current and future generations to enjoy. Host a ladies’ night out loungewear event in your private home. During the event, view movies centered around the heroines of America. Also, engage in a game of charades depicting your favorite female character. End the evening by committing to sponsoring an enhancing community event.

Suggested Readings- “Becoming” by Michelle Obama, “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly, and “My Own Words” by Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Upcoming Events – The Next Level Cotillion. Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC® presents its Spring 2026 coterie on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 6:00 pm. Individual and patron souvenir program advertisements are $25.00 each. Event admission is $40.00 per individual. You may contact us via our QR Code below to secure an ad space or admission to the cotillion ceremony.

Treat Yourself Tuesday! – Please join Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC® on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 6:00 am on KTVE 10 KARD 14 myarklamiss for exciting and memorable dishes celebrating the month of March.

Closed Legs Open Doors (Females Only) – Saturday, March 21, 2026, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Please register via Eventbrite or call (318) 647-4495. Investment is $150.00 per person. Participants will engage in Effective communication, deportment, tablescaping, and American and European dining techniques. A graduation ceremony and formal meal will conclude this event.

Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC® is your resource for all things etiquette and culinary education. We provide emcee services and host and present individual and corporate meetings and events.

Two J’s Tavern & Grill

In less than a year, Shanna Hopper has transformed Two J’s Tavern and Grill into a welcoming, upscale community gathering space through hands-on leadership, personal recipes, and a commitment to quality and customer connection.

ARTICLE BY STARLA GATSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

Stop into Two J’s Tavern and Grill at 2219 Forsythe Avenue on any given afternoon, and you’ll likely see Shanna Hopper floating around the space. Some restaurant owners adopt a hands-off approach, but Hopper prefers to do things differently. She’s involved in every part of the process, jumping in wherever she’s needed.

“We open at 11 for lunch, and I usually try to come in around 3:30 or 4:00,” she explains. “When I have to, I jump behind the bar. If I have to get in the kitchen, I get in the kitchen. A lot of times, you’ll see me in the [kitchen] window expo-ing food, making sure things are right, or I’ll walk around talking to the customers.”

Hopper takes on leading Two J’s with such ease and confidence you’d assume she’d been working in the industry her whole life. Surprisingly, though, she’s been at it for less than a year, having begun when Two J’s first opened its doors in July 2025. Of course, Hopper didn’t step into the experience without culinary knowledge. She’s from South Louisiana, where hunting, cooking, and sharing food are central parts of life.

“I don’t think there’s anything I haven’t tried,” she says, chuckling. “My dad was an avid hunter and fisher, one of the first alligator hunters in Louisiana. I have done all of the things as far as that goes, and I’ve tried it all.”

It doesn’t hurt that the Grosse Tête native also married a restaurant owner, allowing her to get up close and personal with the industry before diving into it herself. When the current Two J’s location first became available, Hopper’s husband was eager to set up shop there, envisioning something similar to what he already runs. She, however, had different ideas of how to transform the space.

“His restaurant has burgers, wings, bar food,” Hopper states before adding, “[It’s] more relaxed. I wanted something a little more upscale. He finally said, ‘You take it.’ I just jumped in feet first and started to implement my ideas, and here we are.”

Though getting to bring her ideas to life was exciting, it was also daunting, Hopper says, especially since most of her prior professional experience was in the medical field. Getting settled into a new industry isn’t easy, but Hopper was up to the challenge. Fortunately, she’d picked up quite a few things from watching her husband over the years, though she admits she’s tweaked a few of his processes to suit her better.

“I guess I’m a little stubborn in the sense that I like to do things my way,” she says before adding with a laugh, “That’s how you get things done!”

What she didn’t learn from him, Hopper learned on her own. She shared that she spends hours researching

So far, Hopper says, the feedback she’s received has been mostly positive. She cares deeply about serving delicious food and creating an environment that is both welcoming and posh, so knowing that Two J’s hits both marks is rewarding.

“It makes me feel good to know when someone is enjoying themselves,” she says. “When you go to a restaurant and spend money, you want it to be a pleasant experience. That’s what I want [Two J’s] to be. I want it to be pleasant to people because I want them to come back.”

Hopper says building relationships with the folks who consistently walk through her doors is her favorite part of the job. A natural social butterfly, Hopper loves the days when she can spend most of her time at Two J’s walking around and chatting with customers.

“I don’t meet a stranger,” she remarks. “I just talk, and I like getting to know new people. That’s the fun aspect of owning a restaurant.”

As much as she values her rapport with her regulars, Hopper is eager to see new faces sitting at the Two J’s tables. That’s why she’s kicking advertising efforts into high gear this year.

techniques, recipes, and industry trends to bring to Two J’s. She wants to put her best foot forward as she offers her business to the community, so she strives to ensure that every aspect of the restaurant, from the food itself to the ambiance, is the best it can be. The pressure is high, Hopper says, as the restaurant industry is notoriously difficult. But that pressure drives her, she declares: “This is my livelihood. Nobody’s going to care about your business as much as you care about it.”

So far, Hopper’s dedication to Two J’s Tavern and Grill is paying off. The spot has built a roster of regular customers who come in to order their favorite items again and again. Among those favorites are the muffulettas, burgers, and the spaghetti and meatballs — “[That’s] my recipe,” Hopper says proudly. The Chateau shrimp is also a crowd-pleaser. The dish, fried shrimp in a remoulade sauce, is made with the same recipe used at the now-closed Chateau Restaurant and Lounge on Louisville Avenue. Regulars are also fans of the Italian sausage. Hopper’s husband makes it from scratch, the same way everything else is prepared.

Two J’s, open from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, also boasts a full bar and an impressive, ever-evolving cocktail menu, including beverages like the refreshing Two J’s Spritz, the Aviation, and the Bourbon Cherry Sour. Whether you stop in for lunch or dinner, you can’t forget dessert. The whiskey cake, another of Shanna’s personal recipes, sells out every week. Served warm with a scoop of ice cream, it’s a sweet and cozy way to punctuate your meal.

Above: Some of Two J’s Tavern & Grill’s most popular dishes include their iconic spaghetti and meatballs which features housemade meat sauce served with spaghetti and one house made meatball, garlic bread and a side salad. Their club sandwich includes ham, turkey , bacon, swiss, mayo and cheddar cheese and all the trimmings served on toasted white bread. At right: Two J’s whiskey cake is served warm with ice cream.

“I never did a big announcement when we opened,” she recalls. “I rolled into it slowly. I didn’t want us to get overwhelmed and not be prepared.”

Now that she and her staff — “We have some amazing employees, and we’re fortunate to have them,” she gushes — have gotten their footing, she’s ready to put Two J’s and herself out there, though she’s still adjusting to letting people see the latter.

“I’m not one to like the attention on myself,” she says candidly. “This is out of my comfort zone, talking about me.”

Uncomfortable as it may be, Hopper maintains that it’s important she continue pushing herself to become more acclimated to speaking about her journey into restaurant ownership, not only to bring in new customers but also to encourage other current or aspiring female business owners.

“It’s been a long road, a big struggle to get here, and it’s still not easy,” Hopper says. “[Parts of my story] could be important to women struggling to find their way or who have been through similar things.”

Hopper confesses she hasn’t yet figured out how best to share her story with others who may resonate with it. But it’s safe to say that, when she does, she’ll approach it the same way she approaches operating Two J’s: with attention to quality, intention, and genuine care.

To many, Two J’s Tavern and Grill is just like any other restaurant: just a place to eat and drink. But to Hopper, it’s more than that. It’s a dedicated third space, she says, an inclusive gathering place designed for people to nurture relationships, make memories, and build trust with each other. That they can do so while eating good food and sipping well-crafted cocktails is merely a bonus.

Spring Into Dance

With Missy Crain Dance Studios

AS NORTH LOUISIANA

welcomes spring, the energy inside Missy Crain Dance Studio’s is brighter than ever. For 42 years and counting, the studio has been a trusted place where dancers are shaped into the best of the best—while having the time of their lives. With a legacy rooted in excellence, joy, and creativity, Missy Crain Dance Studio’s continues to inspire dancers and families across the region to move, dream, and grow together.

Spring at the studio always brings renewed focus, fresh creativity, and excitement as dancers explore technique, musicality, and confidence, preparing for state-of-the-art performances, summer intensives, and competitions. From first pliés to powerful leaps, every class is designed to encourage growth while celebrating the love of dance.

Offering an impressive range of

styles, the studio provides ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and tap, along with Mommy and Me preschool classes and creative movement designed especially for ages 3–5. These early classes create a joyful introduction to dance, helping young movers develop coordination, rhythm, and self-expression in a nurturing environment. For parents, Mommy and Me classes offer the sweetest opportunity to bond through movement and music.

Looking ahead, summer at Missy Crain Dance Studio’s promises even more magic. The beloved Summer Princess Camp returns with all the sparkle and imagination young dancers adore, blending storytelling, creativity, and dance into an unforgettable experience. Summer classes are also available, allowing dancers of all levels to stay active, sharpen skills, and explore new styles while school is out featuring ballet, hip hop, jazz, contemporary, and tap.

For the tiniest dancers and their caregivers, these mommy and me classes celebrate first steps in dance while building coordination, confidence, and special shared memories that families will treasure.

What makes Missy Crain Dance Studio’s truly special is its heart. More than just a place to learn steps, it is a welcoming space where children feel seen, supported, and inspired to shine. With caring instructors, uplifting energy, and a passion for the art of dance, the studio continues to be a treasured part of the North Louisiana community.

With classes available in Monroe (at the MAC), Sterlington, Ruston, Calhoun, and Swartz, Missy Crain Dance Studio’s invites families to “Spring into Dance” and be part of a legacy that continues to move generations—one joyful step at a time.

Colon Cancer Awareness Month

Dr. Patrick Smith Makes Big Difference in Patient’s Life

EVERY YEAR, TOO MANY LOUISIANA

families lose loved ones to colorectal cancer—a highly preventable and treatable cancer if detected early. In fact, Louisiana has the fifth highest colorectal cancer mortality rate in the U.S., according to the Louisiana Department of Health.

As we observe Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month (also known as Colon Cancer Awareness Month), it’s important to remember that if we are diligent about getting tested, the five-year survival rate is 90 percent. Regular screenings are vital because colorectal cancer doesn’t often cause symptoms in the early stages.

Eugene, a patient at the Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana, underwent his first colonoscopy at age 68. He urges others to get screened sooner than he did.

“I was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer. I thank God—and my wife Kim—every day for urging me to finally get my colonoscopy. Don’t hesitate to get this test; it’s easy and not painful,” Eugene said.

Kim urged Eugene to get a colonoscopy when he started experiencing bloating and gas pain.

After his colonoscopy revealed colon cancer, the Surgery Clinic’s Dr. Patrick Smith performed a robotic colon resection, removing Eugene’s cancer. Robotic surgeries are minimally invasive and result in less recovery time and less pain. Eugene, who then underwent three months of chemotherapy, said Dr. Smith is “the best doctor in the world.”

He said, “Dr. Smith talks to you in a way that you can easily understand what’s happening in your body. He is also very down-to-earth and very kind. That makes a big difference when you’re going through something like this.”

Most people should get regular exams at age 45. Those with a higher risk for colorectal cancer might need to begin screening before age 45. They may also need to be examined more often or get specific tests. A colonoscopy is one of the few options for colon cancer screening. Talk with your doctor about the best options for

you.

People at higher risk include those with: a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease); a family or personal history of colorectal cancer or specific polyp types; and a history of radiation to the abdomen (belly) or pelvis to treat a prior cancer.

Lifestyle choices impact everyone’s risk of getting colorectal cancer. These risks include: obesity; lack of physical activity; diets that contain a significant amount of red meat and processed meats, low Vitamin D levels; smoking; and moderate to heavy alcohol consumption.

Late-stage symptoms may include: a change in bowel habits, such as more frequent diarrhea or constipation; rectal bleeding or blood in the stool; ongoing discomfort in the belly area, such as cramps, gas, or pain; and fatigue.

The Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana, home of Delta Vein Care, houses surgeons Dr. Walter Sartor, Dr. Bart Liles, Dr. Patrick Smith, and Dr. Mohamed Bakeer

BAYOU KIDZ

The Power Is In The People

Restoring Our Faith In Humanity

article by Cindy G. Foust

IGUESS I’M A LITTLE LATE TO THE PARTY ASKING everyone how they are doing post Ice-ma-geden, but really, how’s everyone doing? Y’all knew I was going to write about this, didn’t you? I don’t want to think I have gotten somewhat predictable in this column…and that I keep my readers waiting each month with wonder in their hearts about what I am going to write about. And then I spring it on you.

I do a lot of springing…that’s for sure. But this month, the obvious topic is our foe, the biggest pain in our tails to hit this community in years, and that is Fern. You know, when I think about the name Fern, I think about those beautiful green bushes we buy for our summer porches and patios or the beautiful classic children’s book Where the Red Fern Grows. Except, there wasn’t anything beautiful about the Fern that took our community by seige, literally and figuratively, and wreaked so much havoc right in front of our eyes.

But if you like to be a glass half-full person like me, shouldn’t we at least try to identify some of the “beautiful” things that happened during that week of ice up to our nose holes? Can I say nose holes in this column? It felt like at one point that we were under an avalanche. But truthfully, I felt like Laura Ingalls Wilder for about 10 days, and I’m telling you what readers, I am just not that kind of girl.

At day 10, it looked like you fried a hamburger on my head because we didn’t have water. No power. No water. No internet. Suddenly I thought I was on the prairie and someone was expecting me to can my pickles and shuck my corn. Incidentally, I get both my pickles and my corn at the Farmer’s Market from Mr.

Tommy and Mrs. Barbara, and if you haven’t, do yourself a favor in May and get yours there, too.

But I’m in a rabbit hole. So, what about your families? Same, same, same for all of us…it’s like the world shut down again, even if it was just a week, and it got eerily quiet. Except for the sound of the tree limbs falling out of the sky; I won’t get over that booming noise for a long time. And our yard? Well, y’all know Scott loves his grass more than he loves me, or so it feels like it sometimes, and our yard looked like a war zone. But the scariest part to me, was the way Fern exposed our fearless linemen, and put them in danger on a minute-to-minute basis. Our Jay, who worked 16-hour days, and my daughter-in-law’s dad, who has quietly restored paper safely to citizens for years, put themselves in harm’s way, along with their teams of local and non-local Entergy people to help give us back our power.

You know what I figured out though, friends? The power that we wanted back so badly, that we prayed every day for was actually there all the time. And it wasn’t the power that gives you light when you turn on a switch…no, the power was in the people. My dear friend, and your head coach for ULM football, Coach Bryant Vincent (get yourself out to campus to meet him and his team when you can, you can thank me later) always says to me, “Cindy, the power is in the people.” And he’s not wrong.

The power in our community people became that light switch that turned on the minute the first icicle froze in our trees. That power jumped on Facebook and started alerting our friends to dangerous and treacherous driving conditions. That power checked on those affected by fallen limbs and icy driveways and generators

that ran out of gas. That power found our mayors, our police jurors, our public official friends, who themselves didn’t have power either, on their social media accounts giving us updates and trying to warn us when something was dangerous.

And speaking of dangerous, these limbs, the ones that are still lining the streets both city and country, well, they were quite simply everywhere. My own street was impassable at one point and the “people” that live there as well as neighbors (thank you Payton and your chainsaw), came out and moved those limbs. Incidentally, me, Tashia and Angel Grace are excellent supervisors should any construction companies have an opening.

The power I saw that week also jumped in to help students at the University who were stranded; that power began cleaning debris from older citizens homes; and churches demonstrated their power by opening their doors to serve food, warmth and charging stations.

So as I traverse back to the first of this column when I start out talking about how inconvenienced I was, the truth is, I was equally, if not more, inspired. It made me realize that even in spite of this unexpected and unwelcome storm, our community, my community, demonstrated its power yet again.

Now, I read negative comments I did. Let me say this, as someone who had family exposed and vulnerable for their physical and mental safety, there workers were not playing basketball at the Rec center eating hotdogs. I know the lack of power starting wearing us down…it did, and just the worry over our elderly, our pets (in case y’all might have worried about my donkey, she survived yet another weather system and I rewarded her with honeybuns and graham crackers) and our plants. I get it, I probably

mumbled under my breath, too, but I like to think that my prayers for the safety of all those who were putting themselves in harm’s way was louder than my grumbles.

So, to all those who did just that, put themselves in harm’s way to restore our power, I want to thank you. I want you to know that we saw you in those bucket trucks with ice all around you while you held a flashlight in your mouth (I’m not sure if they did that part, but it sounds like a good climax to the story) to restore our power. We see the 16-18-hour days; the cold frigid temperatures you worked in; and the worry you gave your families until you returned home. We see you.

But we also see the power that this community executed…and not only did it restore our electrical power, it restored our faith in humanity…in the good people that insulates this community. I am proud to live here. I am blessed to live here. And I will never ever, ever again, for as long as I live, wish for a snow day. That’s a fact you can bet on.

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.

Explore The World

with International Travel Experts, Alisa Travel Designs

GET READY! THIS AUGUST, ALISA Travel Designs is partnering with Bambi Ray of Apero, and you are invited. If late August is not in the cards, there is still an exciting calendar ahead, with thoughtfully curated small-group journeys across Germany, Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia; England and Norway; Croatia; Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands; Rome to Barcelona; and France and Switzerland. Each itinerary blends cultural immersion, seamless planning, and unforgettable shared experiences.

These small-group departures are ideal for solo travelers, couples, and friends seeking the ease of guided travel without the scale of a large tour. An expert international travel agent from Alisa Travel Designs’ team accompanies every journey, ensuring personalized attention, insider recommendations, and peace of mind from

departure to return. With expertly arranged excursions, beautiful accommodations, and meaningful moments built into each day, travelers can simply relax and savor the experience.

Summer begins July 1st with a Londonto-Norway sailing aboard Cunard’s Queen Anne on a seven-night round-trip voyage pairing iconic British charm with Norway’s dramatic fjords. In August, board the Ravel of Riverside Luxury Cruiseline for the “Bubbles and Wine Tour” invites guests to Paris for three enchanting nights before continuing along the Rhône Valley on a fournight river cruise celebrating the artistry of French Champagne and wine paired with French Cuisine.

Autumn brings romance and elegance to the forefront. From October 17th–28th, Debussy sets sail, with the Riverside Luxury Cruises, to three nights in Northern Italy,

followed by a breathtaking Alpine train ride from Milan to Basel and a northbound river cruise to Amsterdam. This all-inclusive experience becomes even more enticing with a special offer: Guests who book and pay their deposit by February 28, 2026, will receive a credit that can be applied toward indulgences such as spa treatments.

Later in the season, an October 31st–November 7th Mediterranean voyage with Azamara sails from Rome to Barcelona, tracing Italy’s celebrated Riviera before arriving on Spain’s vibrant coast—an itinerary rich in cuisine, culture, and coastal beauty.

Whether sipping Champagne in France, gliding through Alpine scenery, or exploring storied Mediterranean ports, the ladies at Alisa Travel Designs,’Alisa Splatafora, Liz Craft, Kerry Kilpatrick, and Julia Marzala, are ready to explore the world with you through their 2026 small-group collection. For travelers ready to see the world with confidence and style, the journey begins here.

alisa@alisatraveldesigns.com lizcraft@alisatraveldesigns.com kerry@alisatraveldesigns.com julia@alisatraveldesigns.com

Story Cannabis

Local Care, Trusted Guidance, and a New Chapter

STORY 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.

AUDREY McCUMBER

After leaving a career in finance, Audrey McCumber returned to ceramics and built

Red Bear Pottery into a full-time business, applying her business background to produce and sell functional pottery. Article by April C. Doughty

Photography by Kelly Moore Clark

Audrey McCumber’s path to ceramics was shaped as much by intuition as by intention. After first discovering her natural ability for working with clay in high school, McCumber set pottery aside to pursue a Bachelor of Science in business and finance. Upon finishing her degree, she stepped into the corporate world with the expectation of building a stable career. Still, the level of fulfillment she experienced in the corporate world never matched what she experienced at the wheel. In 2021, an empty spare bedroom that needed a purpose reignited her interest and quickly became the foundation for a growing production pottery business, prompting her to fully commit to the creative career she had long felt drawn toward.

Today, as owner of Red Bear Pottery, McCumber focuses on developing a recognizable personal style while producing functional pieces meant to be handled, used, and woven into everyday routines. Through her work, she aims to create objects that bring people together in simple but meaningful ways, while demonstrating that pursuing a creative livelihood can be both practical and deeply rewarding.

McCumber, whose mother was a stained glass artist, grew up loving art and feeling drawn to creative activities throughout her childhood. In high school at Caddo Magnet in Shreveport, she took two years of ceramics with Curtis Bias. This experience awakened a passion in her that lingered and yearned to be reignited long after graduating from the halls of high school. When McCumber enrolled at Louisiana Tech University, she was set on pursuing a degree in business finance and embarked on this path thinking she’d be able to continue exploring her passion for ceramics through electives. Unfortunately, her plans were quickly thwarted when

she discovered there were many hoops to jump though, including multiple prerequisite courses that barred her access. Consequently, she gave up on pursuing college credits in ceramics and went on with her original plan. In keeping with that plan, McCumber gained work experience related to business and finance. She worked in banking and later in private equity as a financial analyst. While trying to make good on her plan to build a career in business, she found herself continually thinking about how she could get out of the corporate world and focus on pottery. “I was thinking about pottery all the time,” she said.

At the same time, she found the male-dominated corporate world was more stifling than she’d imagined, and she craved being able to express herself more openly. She’d seen artists on social media who were building successful, self-sustaining businesses as fulltime potters, so she took their experiences as proof she could find the same success and fulfillment. She was right, and now that she’s beginning to experience that fulfillment, she said, “I would never go back. It’s fantastic, and I’m so much happier. Allowing myself to do this as a woman is a lot more empowering than the corporate world.”

But when she first started having these inklings that she wanted to pursue ceramics full time, McCumber knew she couldn’t do it all at once. After all, she hadn’t really practiced ceramics since high school. To help her delve back into that world, McCumber asked her parents for a pottery wheel for her birthday in 2021. At the time, she was living alone in a four-bedroom house, so she had plenty of rooms to designate one as a pottery studio. Although she wasn’t sure whether rediscovering her former hobby would lead to more, she was ready to explore the creative outlet that had once brought so much joy.

IN HIGH SCHOOL, McCumber had first encountered ceramics at an impressionable time. When Mr. Bias introduced the art of wheel throwing to his students, McCumber recalls being one of only a couple students to successfully create something that first day at the wheel. With that initial confidence boost, she was hooked, and with two years of his support, she had enough experience and trust in herself to begin refining her skills on her own through experimentation, trial and error, and the use of models she liked for inspiration. She even found that Bias was willing to offer support and answer questions years later when she was starting her own studio.

It’s now been more than four years since she decided to take up ceramics again. In the beginning, there were challenges. Creating pottery requires more than just a wheel. There are a variety of tools needed. Fortunately, McCumber’s parents were willing to invest in the most substantial necessity—a decent wheel. That wheel has proven durable and continues to serve her well. Along the way, she acquired most of the other tools herself, some of them secondhand, and she started paying for kiln space at a local shop in Shreveport since she didn’t have a kiln of her own. When she was able, she bought a small kiln to have greater control over her pieces and when they were fired. She continues to use that kiln today but has also continued to grow and scale her business with more equipment.

Since March 2024, she’s become a full-time production potter, spending her time creating a high volume of functional pottery for various markets and events. Around that time, she said something shifted in her. She decided it was time to use her business degree to do something she really wanted to be doing. She started Red Bear and by June 2024, she was selling her work at the Ruston Farmer’s Market, which she continues to do. Since leaving her corporate job and moving to the woods of Ruston, Louisiana, her success has grown not only locally, but also online through collection drops on her website and custom work sold on Etsy. Using inventory drops allows her to come up with ideas and then create a cohesive collection that she releases to the public for sale all at once on a chosen day. She believes using drops decreases stress and confusion both for her and buyers.

When McCumber first imagines a piece, she thinks through all the creative aspects from how it will function to the shape and glaze, but the business side of her is also at work, and she’s thinking about it from a product development angle. She’s considering whether the idea is one that might only appeal to her or one she thinks other people would genuinely be interested in and want to buy. Then she really digs in and considers things like profit margins, what her projected income will be, and how she will market it. “At the end of the day,” she said, “you can have a passion, but it’s great to also make a great living off of it. You can be really good, but if people don’t know you exist, that can be hard. So you really have to add logic to the art that’s being produced.”

In the process of growing her business, McCumber has encountered doubts and scary moments, but she hasn’t had to look very far to find the support she’s needed to push through. Her mother Gena White, who is an experienced artist and business owner, has always been there for her to provide inspiration and encouragement. Her husband Bill has also been a continual source of support, being by her side through everything she does and even when she’s in what she called “pottery mode” all the time.

When McCumber is creating a batch, she works with the pieces for two or three weeks. “So I become very close with these pieces,” she said. When she’s glazing the pieces, she’s

noticing their little eccentricities, and sometimes the glaze may go on a little thinner or thicker for some pieces. When the pieces come out of the kiln, there’s always an element of surprise. “I really like looking at pieces up close,” she said, “and seeing how the glazes melted with one another in the kiln because it kind of tells a story to me.”

McCumber specifically likes combining blues, greens, and reds and seeing how they transform in the kiln. When she puts the pieces in, it’s like she’s relinquishing control and letting them become what they are meant to be, almost like a parent watching their child go out on their own for the first time. “When I pull it out of the kiln, I’m like, ‘Oh, I know what you did in there because I can see it.’” In her mind’s eye, she sees all the moments that led to this final piece. “When I see how the glaze reacts, it just feels like the pot is alive,” she said. In a sense, each piece takes on a life of its own in the kiln.

As McCumber’s business has grown, her kiln use has changed as well. She’s gone from renting kiln space to acquiring a small kiln of her own to being the lucky recipient of a gifted kiln that came with a unique history and the ability to change her production potential. The story of this kiln begins at the Ruston Farmer’s Market. McCumber is soaking in the vibes as children pick out bud vases for their moms and husbands pick mugs to share coffee with their wives. In

these moments, she’s glimpsing the connection she’s hoped her pieces would inspire since she conceived them.

At the same time, she begins to notice that a certain name has popped up in conversations with her customers more than a few times, and it’s Kent Follette. People are saying her work is reminiscent of his. She’s never heard of Follette, but gets curious and learns that he was a long-time resident of the area and a production potter whose mark on the community runs deep. If people were comparing her to this man, she decided she was in good company and, in a way, she began to feel like she knew Follette, even though they’d never met. She said she was even beginning to feel the urge to reach out to him.

Around this time, McCumber also began to feel like her business was growing to the point she would need a larger kiln soon. In answer to her need, a woman named Emma Melville approached McCumber at the market one day in the summer of 2025. Melville was a fellow ceramicist and actually had one of Kent Follette’s old kilns in storage, and she was willing to give it to McCumber. “What a crazy opportunity,” she said. The offer couldn’t have come at a more perfect time, and it only served to strengthen the connection she was already feeling to Follette.

A couple months later, McCumber had been busy putting the new kiln to use when, at the Annual Ruston Peach Festival, a classic summer community event became the site of a beautiful synchronicity. McCumber was in her booth, going about her usual business of engaging with customers and answering questions, when one of them began to ask very specific questions. “You must be a potter,” McCumber said, and he answered, “‘I am. My name’s Kent Follette.’” Meeting Follette in person was surreal. McCumber pulled him aside and said, “Look, I have your kiln, and I feel like I know you.” She acknowledged that approaching him in this way might have seemed a little weird, but at the

same time, she couldn’t help but share how awesome it felt to meet him in person. “I feel like you’ve passed the torch down,” she said, “and you’re still very much alive in this community.” Although their encounter was brief, McCumber said he became an important figure in her development for a time.

Now that McCumber is well on her way to realizing her dream of sustaining herself as an artist, she’s focusing more on refining her work, looking for ways to add flair or simple details that really heighten the work. She’s also been thinking more about how different glazes can complement the form of a piece. She considers her work earthy and finds herself drawn to glazes that have a certain depth to them and mirror colors found in nature. These are aspects of her work that she feels committed to while at the same time acknowledging that it can take years to develop a personal style. That’s where she is right now, discovering what she’s really driven towards and what aspects she wants to define her work and separate her from other potters. “I’m in that space now,” she said, “where I want somebody to look at a mug and say, that’s a Red Bear Pottery mug.”

She also wants to preserve the joy that comes with sitting at the wheel and throwing. It’s actually the fastest part of the process, she said, taking maybe two to three minutes to make a coffee mug. Although it can be easy to let these moments get overshadowed by more administrative tasks, McCumber is determined to keep the joy alive. She said, “I really like throwing. I like putting on headphones (and it’s mostly been classical music lately), and I really like having the clay just run through my hands. It’s really satisfying.”

Another really satisfying thing for McCumber is shipping items to their new owners. She loves seeing the names and where the pieces are going and writing the personal thank you notes that she encloses with each item. “As an artist,” she said, “my work has become a language for me to take up space unapologetically. It is something tangible and evidence of ownership that holds my vision and perspective.” Knowing that she’s sharing her vision and perspective with people as far away as Hawaii or Alaska is really cool to her. “I’m in the relationship business,” she said.

Because the work she creates is primarily functional kitchenware, it’s meant to be used in the kitchen where people gather to cook and connect and share meals and quality time together. Connection and gathering are really important to McCumber. “We’re social human beings,” she said, “so that’s how I’d like to have my work change people’s lives. I also like to think that my presence might inspire or help someone else see that a creative life is entirely possible for them too.”

I REMEMBER

article by PAUL LIPE opinion expressed

is

that of the writer

IREMEMBER THAT , when I was growing up in North Carolina, we would have two or three winter storms each year. Those storms were an inconvenience, but nothing like the devastation from the storm that hit our area recently. The North Carolina storms did not cause power failure because the rural areas of the state had not yet received electric service. In rural North Carolina, where we had no power service, we would heat our homes with coal burning heaters. Our Louisiana storm was marked by power failure all over the northern part of the state; without power service we had to improvise in order to stay warm.

Dealing with our catastrophe was a challenge for us all. Some had generators but most of us had to rely on other sources. Some were fortunate enough to have gas log to help with the cold augmented by some extra blankets.

Life is confronted by multiple problems, and challenges. How we face these depends in large part with our relationship to our Lord. Those who have faith that there is a God and that prayer makes a difference have help that will sustain us. In face of situations that overwhelm us we have help from the One who is in sovereign control of the whole universe. Whenever you face heavy burdens, I recommend that you exercise your faith in one who is able to provide all the grace that we need for every situation.

If there is any benefit from experiencing storms like the one we’ve been through, it is that we are grown closer to one another and to our redeemer.

By God‘s grace, we have endured the storm and we give to Him our praise.

Stand for Hope Together

A Community Commitment to Protecting Children

EACH APRIL, COMMUNITIES ACROSS the nation pause to recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month—but in Northeast Louisiana, it is more than a moment of awareness. It is a movement. On April 15, 2026, The Center for Children & Families will once again bring the community together for Stand for Hope Together, an event dedicated to protecting children, strengthening families, and reminding us all of our shared responsibility.

Held at The Center for Children & Families in Monroe, the gathering will serve as a powerful call to action for individuals, leaders, and organizations to unite around a single purpose: ensuring every child grows up safe, supported, and seen.

Child abuse prevention is not the work of one agency alone—it requires a community willing to pay attention, step in, and stand alongside families in their most vulnerable moments. That spirit will be reflected as local

leaders and other helping agencies come together to recognize April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and reaffirm a collective commitment to advocacy and prevention. The event will also honor community members whose dedication and compassion have made a lasting difference in the lives of children and families across the region.

At its core, Stand for Hope Together is about awareness that leads to action and empowerment. In Louisiana last year, there were over 51,000 reports of child abuse and neglect, according to the Department of Children & Family Services. This fact signals the dramatic need for more people to be able to recognize the signs of abuse, speak up, and help children access the support they need rather than suffer in silence. During the event, The Center for Children & Families will highlight practical ways the community can be part of that response: learning to recognize and report concerns, volunteering as CASA

advocates who speak up for children in foster care, and supporting trauma-informed services that help families heal and rebuild.

For more than two decades, The Center for Children & Families has been a trusted resource for hope and healing. Through counseling, advocacy, education, and prevention programs, the organization serves thousands of children and families each year—meeting them in moments of crisis and walking alongside them toward stability and resilience. Their work reflects a simple truth: when families are supported, communities grow stronger.

National Child Abuse Prevention Month reminds us that awareness must lead to action. Every conversation, every volunteer, and every act of support plays a role in building safer environments for children. The April 15 event is more than a moment on the calendar — it is an invitation to stand together in a shared promise to protect the most vulnerable among us.

Because when a community chooses to stand for hope together, children are given something powerful: the chance to feel safe, to be heard, and to build brighter futures.

Louisiana Surgery Center

Excellence in Orthopedic, Spine, and ENT Care

LOCATED IN RUSTON, LOUISIANA, Louisiana Surgery Center is fastbecoming a leading destination for outpatient surgical care in orthopedics, spine, and ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialties. The center’s team of eight surgeons is known throughout North Louisiana for advanced surgical skill, compassionate care, and a strong focus on helping patients recover efficiently. The center’s modern facility allows patients to undergo same-day surgical procedures close to home, reducing travel and recovery time. Its specialists cover a comprehensive range of musculoskeletal and ENT conditions, offering personalized treatment plans built on the latest medical evidence.

Dr. Cameron Best, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder, elbow, and hand procedures, trained both domestically and abroad, completing fellowships in Nice, France, and Wisconsin. A graduate of

Louisiana Tech University and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Dr. Best focuses on upper extremity injuries, shoulder replacements, and work-related conditions. His extensive research background and contributions to national orthopedic conferences underscore his commitment to advancing surgical excellence. Dr. Best also serves as a team doctor for Louisiana Tech University athletics.

Dr. Stanley Crawford, the only fellowshiptrained orthopedic spine surgeon in the Ruston region, brings specialized expertise in complex and minimally invasive spine procedures. A Ruston native, Dr. Crawford completed his orthopedic residency at Michigan State University’s McLaren Greater Lansing Hospital, where he served as Chief Resident, followed by fellowship training at the Sonoran Spine Center in Phoenix. His practice encompasses degenerative spine conditions, spinal deformities, and

revision surgery. Dr. Crawford emphasizes individualized, comprehensive treatment plans that empower patients to regain active, pain-free lifestyles.

Louisiana Surgery Center’s eight surgeons form the foundation of their multidisciplinary approach. Alongside Dr. Best and Dr. Crawford are Dr. David Trettin, Dr. Sol Graves, Dr. Martin DeGravelle, Dr. Elliot Nipper, Dr. K.C. Sirmon, and Dr. Lee Miller. Their shared mission drives every aspect of the center’s work. Whether treating a young athlete recovering from an injury, an adult managing chronic joint pain, or a patient seeking relief from sinus or hearing issues, the center delivers care tailored to each individual’s needs. With its team of highly trained specialists, modern technology, and community-centered approach, Louisiana Surgery Center sets the standard for outpatient orthopedic, spine, and ENT care in North Louisiana.

A Winter Wonderland Love Story

CAROLINE GIROD AND JOHN CASH EXCHANGE VOWS AT SOUTHERN STABLES IN A TIMELESS WINTER CEREMONY FILLED WITH LOVE AND JOY.

On January 24, 2026, beneath a winter sky that felt straight out of a dream, Caroline Girod married John Cash in a celebration that was equal parts elegance, faith, family, and unforgettable joy.

Their love story led them to this moment— one that had been sealed just months earlier on November 15, 2024, when John proposed on the peaceful waters of Bayou Desiard. It was intimate, meaningful, and perfectly fitting for a couple who value depth, intention, and the people they love most.

From the beginning, Caroline envisioned a winter wonderland wedding—soft, magical, and filled with Christmas charm, but without the traditional reds and greens. That vision came to life beautifully thanks to her mother, Summer Girod, who poured her heart into orchestrating every detail, alongside the incredible talent of florist and designer Clinton Downing. Together, they transformed Caroline’s Pinterest dreams into something even more breathtaking than she imagined. The ceremony and reception were both

held at Southern Stables Venue, a place Caroline fell in love with for its sweeping country scenery and stunning Kentucky Derby–style barn. The setting felt timeless and warm, a perfect contrast to the crisp winter air.

Caroline stunned in a Jacquard gown from Happily Ever After in Shreveport, Louisiana. The dress featured a structured, strapless silhouette with a plunging illusion V-neckline, flowing effortlessly into a mermaid shape. Fabric-covered buttons traced the gown all the way down the chapel-length train. Though it was far outside what she thought she would choose—she’d always imagined something simple and satin—the moment she put it on, everything clicked. It was the dress.

One of the most meaningful details Caroline carried with her was her grandmother’s delicate sapphire and gold bracelet—her something old and something blue. Her grandmother, who passed away in April 2025, was honored not only through the bracelet but also with a small locket holding her photo, draped gently from Caroline’s

bouquet. It was a quiet, elegant reminder that she was present in spirit throughout the day.

During the ceremony, faith and family took center stage. After Caroline and John exchanged vows, her grandfather prayed a blessing over them—a deeply moving moment for the couple, who look up to him as a guiding, Godly figure in both their marriage and their family.

The reception transformed Southern Stables into a true winter wonderland. Trusting Clinton completely with her vision, Caroline watched in awe as the space came alive—glowing, romantic, and absolutely magical. His constant reassurance paid off tenfold; every detail exceeded expectations.

As if the night wasn’t already memorable enough, an ice storm swept through during the celebration. While some guests had to leave early to travel safely, Caroline and John were surrounded by their immediate family and a close group of friends from Texas. About 30 loved ones stayed—and together, they danced the night away. Any stress from the

storm melted as laughter filled the room, and the celebration ended in the most iconic way possible: everyone singing at the top of their lungs to “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond. It was intimate. It was joyful. And it was unforgettable.

The day was beautifully captured by photographer Brittani Russell, with florals and design by Clinton Downing, catering by Creative Catering’s Mitzi Shelton, cake by Amber Windsor, hair by Polly Norris, makeup by Anna Grace White, and music by DJ Trenton Thompson. Toast and Tango brought the checkered dance floor, aisle, and photo booth, while 318 Illuminate added glowing light-up letters that made the night shine even brighter.

Through winter weather, heartfelt traditions, and a room full of love, Caroline and John’s wedding day was a true reflection of who they are—grounded in faith, surrounded by family, and full of joy that no storm could ever dampen.

the women’s symposium

To celebrate the Women's Symposium 10th anniversary, they have curated their Top 10 Trailblazers, alongside their traditional awards. These ten individuals have been instrumental in the Women's Symposium's growth, serving as regular attendees, past panelists, sponsors, members, and board chairs , among other roles. Their commitment to advancing the Women's Symposium's mission has significantly influenced the community.

ARTICLES BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

Gwen Amelin

Gwen Amelin cares for people, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Raised in the Archibald/ Start area, Gwen has always interacted with the disabled in her schools and neighborhood. The communication came naturally to Gwen. After graduating from ULM (then NLU) in one of the first Computer Science cohorts, Gwen took a job with ARCO as a computer programmer. For 37 years, her last title being Director of Vocational Services, Gwen connected those with intellectual and developmental disabilities with work programs and sustainable employment. Now Gwen serves as a Program Monitor for Northeast Delta Human Services Authority, again working with the disabled population, ensuring performance standards are met and overseeing accountability for services performed.

As for community impact, Gwen finds purpose in volunteerism, always working with and around the youth - many whom affectionately call her “T Gwen.” She also centers disaster recovery work, extending material relief and hope - a result of Gwen’s solid faith in God. Coming from a small, rural town, Gwen considers herself blessed to be a part of community events and organizations. She serves as Sunday School Superintendent at Mount Zion Baptist Church and sings in the choir. Her love of all genres of music prompted her work on the NELA Music Association Board where Gwen facilitates awards’ night and solicits other volunteers.

Gwen has attended nearly, if not all, the Women’s Symposiums since the organization’s inception in 2016. She looks forward to the networking opportunities, in addition to the panels and the bevy of speakers. It’s nice to see all these powerful women under one roof, sharing stories and challenges, supporting one another and furthering the work of highlighting and bolstering women. Gwen supports the Symposium financially and physically, recruiting many of her colleagues to attend the event. She is a Trailblazer for finding her own path, personally and professionally, applying her talents and skills to the needs of her local community.

Kristin Morris

For Simran Dhaliwal Emaus, continuing her family’s legacy in business is fueled by grit and guided by vision. With a bachelor’s in Business and Neuroscience from Tulane and a Masters in Public Health from the University of South Florida, Simran planned to join the Peace Corps or move to Washington, D.C. With her soon-to-be husband traveling for MLB, Simran’s father suggested she move home for a year post-graduation and work at Now Save, the family business. The rest is history. Simran believes, “Business is in my blood. It comes naturally to me.” Simran is proud of the growth in the last 15 years. Now Save has grown from 6 stores to 23, with locations in Monroe and Ruston, expanding to Shreveport and Baton Rouge.

“Being from an immigrant family, my parents drilled into us the importance of giving back to the community we serve. It’s the way a community thrives” says Simran. The Dhaliwals intentionally demonstrate commitment to northeast Louisiana, investing substantially in children and schools. They sponsor free basketball camps and kids days at ULM, free tickets to Moccasins games, in

Raised in West Monroe, Louisiana, Kristin Morris dreams big and commits to turning those dreams into action. After graduating with a bachelor’s in Social Work at ULM, Kristin earned a masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Intrigued by the study of human behavior, Kristin longed to help people. In 2010, Kristin took a job in Academic Advising at ULM, followed by time in the Admissions and Recruitment Office, helping people in an environment she’d come to know and love. She shifted her focus to Career Services in 2015, becoming Assistant Director of Career Services, before ultimately being named the ULM Executive Director of Career Development.

As for community impact, Kristin is most proud of her work with the DREAMS Program, a mentorship program whereby ULM students and community members mentor local middle schoolers. Founded by Dr./Father Lijo Thomas, the intervention program targets those students in the middle - the not-yet star students - to identify a focus or discover a passion. Personally, Kristin devotes her attention to her two children - daughter Olivia (12) and son Jaxson (3). She calls Olivia her “miracle child,” and she adopted son Jaxson out of

addition to store gift cards for deserving students. With their fuel brand partner 76, the Dhaliwals put their money back into the community, investing in the present for our collective future.

Simran is most proud of Now Save becoming its own fuel distributor, supplying Now Save Stores and area stores and farms. Taking operations inhouse has boosted Now Save’s earning potential and local impact. For the company's growth and expansion, Simran was recognized as a Top Woman in Convenience by the National Association of Convenience Stores, an accolade she was honored to receive.

Simran presented at one of the first Women’s Symposiums on being a successful woman in a male dominated field. She also enjoys meeting women frontrunners in other industries. Simran is consistently amazed by how accomplished the women of our community are. Supporting local events like the Women’s Symposium is akin to Now Save’s community investmentgiving back to the people and platforms that enrich our community and sustain our growth.

foster care. Kristin’s mom was adopted, so the seed of adoption was already planted. Raising a preteen girl and toddler boy is quite an adventure, and Kristin learns from them every day.

Kristin founded the Women’s Symposium in 2015. In her professional life, the theme of leadership kept surfacing. After hearing about a military training symposium that transitioned women from soldiers to civilians, Kristin wanted a version of the event on the ULM campus. The annual gathering of community leaders and students facilitates conversations, promotes networking, and introduces students to potential mentors. Knowing the importance of mentors in her own journey, she wanted to create a platform to introduce students to successful, local women who are living the professional lives those students desire to emulate. Bridging the gap between students imagining a career and women in those same careers is integral to the college experience.

Even as an accomplished professional in an academic environment, Kristin struggled with imposter syndrome, “a very real thing for me.” The Women’s Symposium addresses that confidence gap, uniting seasoned professionals with the professionals of tomorrow.

Simran Emaus

Cindy Foust

Education is where Faith Gremillion discovered her passion and purpose. Raised in Vidalia, Faith’s parents modeled the kind of servant-hearted leadership that shaped Faith into someone who naturally leads with compassion, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. At ULM (then NLU), Faith earned a bachelor’s in Education, followed by a masters in Educational Leadership and a masters in Supervision & Administration at the American College of Education. For 31 years, Faith served in K-5 positions, retiring as a Title 1 Reading/Math Coordinator. Faith’s community impact includes past service with the Monroe Junior League and the Cancer Foundation League, and currently with DAR, ACTS, the Monroe Garden Club, Crossroads Garden Club, and the St. Christopher Educational Fund. She and her husband, Joe, also proudly support the St. Jude Dream Home through their family company, Twin City Granite. Alongside Lisa Holyfield, Faith founded the NELA Teacher Symposium; 2026 will be the 4th annual event. Having reached over 400 educators across five states, Faith is proud of the local opportunity for professional development and camaraderie. As an educator, Faith is familiar with the conflicting emotions of

For the last 25 years, Cindy Foust has dedicated herself to community service - notably serving such organizations like the Twin City Ballet, The Children’s Coalition, and the Cancer Foundation League. A two-time graduate of ULM, Cindy has worked for her alma mater for the last 7 years, first as Alumni Coordinator, then Advancement Officer, and now as Interim Executive Director for the ULM Foundation Office. Cindy has been married to Scott Foust for 30 years, and the couple have 3 children: Robert Scott (28), Angel Grace (21), and their late son Samuel who passed at two years old.

In 2004, Cindy launched Alpha-kidZ, a publishing company, and authored a series of children’s books. At her core, Cindy desires to better the lives of children - work that manifests in her writing the book series and her column in BayouLife Magazine. She supports organizations that support children, giving her time and talent generously, and trying to be a useful agent in the community. Following the loss of her son Samuel, Cindy wanted to share her story, insisting, “The loss of a child will spur you…so they’re not forgotten.” Channeling her grief into writing is a

the job - joy, burnout, excitement - as well as the importance of retaining and supporting teachers. Additionally, the Symposium initiated the inaugural LEGACY Color Run in 2025, benefiting the Tarver Braddock Foundation.

Faith is a breast cancer survivor, having been diagnosed only last year. Now cancer free, thanks to God’s healing, medical teams in New Orleans and Ruston, a strong circle of friends, and the unfailing love and support of her family. Faith is looking forward to an “abundantly, beautiful season of life!” Faith created The Persnickety Fox, a stationery brand filled with whimsical charm and is excitedly working on her dream of writing children’s books.

Having created her own Symposium, Faith is honored to represent the Women’s Symposium. She served in 2025 on the Women in Education panel, alongside Anna Redding and Gaundhi Hays. Faith loves the “the energy in the room, so many accomplished women that are strong, yet tender.” She appreciates the opportunity to “network with intentionality and heart.” Education is at the heart of the Women’s Symposium, and bringing women together furthers that initiative.

means of supporting others and keeping Samuel’s memory alive.

Cindy’s work at ULM reignited her love of university life. Her professional accomplishments that sparked personal fulfillment include the fundraising campaigns for the ULM Honors Program lounge, as the students needed a place to interact, and the Stangier-Young Leadership Center where student athletes can gather. Both initiatives serve as recruiting tools for their respective programs.

As for the Women’s Symposium, Cindy is honored to have served as a panelist twice. The organization brings “current relevant subjects to the forefront.” And though some topics are uncomfortable, the issues need to be discussed, and the Women’s Symposium provides that platform for intentional discussions that engage nuance and advance camaraderie. “It feels like friends learning together,” says Cindy. The Symposium has expanded to include men on the panels, a development that Cindy insists is integral to the vitality of the Symposium’s mission.

Faith Gremillion

For Monroe transplant Dr. Leigh Hersey, community engagement is not only a professional responsibility but also a personal passion. Originally from rural Virginia, Leigh earned a bachelor’s in Journalism from the University of Georgia, followed by a master’s in Athletic Administration from Temple University. While working in higher ed fundraising, Leigh realized a doctorate would secure her seat at the table. While pursuing her PhD in Public Administration at Arizona State, a nonprofit program provided Leigh with the opportunity to teach as an adjunct, and she fell in love with teaching and the campus environment.

While in Arizona, Leigh worked with the St Mary’s Food Bank in Phoenix, calling the experience the “most powerful opportunity I’ve ever had.” She worked with the founder providing food directly to those who needed it every day. Currently, Leigh serves as the ULM Faculty Athletic Representative, making sure all 400 student-athletes have what they need to be successful, on and off the field. Additionally, Leigh served on the Board of Directors for The Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana, focusing on Early

Head Start programs, access to healthcare, and suicide prevention training. Leigh knows that our children are our future, and making sure they have the resources they need is integral to the success of our region.

Leigh’s first year on the Women’s Symposium Board culminated in the event being canceled due to Covid precautions. She remembers rallying with the Board to make the 2021 event happen virtually, a success beyond anyone’s imagination thanks to the leadership of Chair Dr. Jaleesa Harris. Leigh chaired the first inperson Symposium post-Covid, buttressed by the support of a dedicated team of professional women. Even with unexpected complications emerging a month prior, Leigh stayed committed to the event’s success. That difficult experience taught her the importance of trusting herself and listening to her body. Given the chance to do it over again, she would have spoken up and leaned on the board for support during recovery. Leigh is most proud of the relationships she formed through her tenure with the Women’s Symposium. .

Congresswoman Julia Letlow

Leigh Hersey

Born and raised in Monroe, Julia Letlow represents Louisiana’s 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Her background is in education, and her passion is ensuring that the next generation is equipped for the modern economy. Congresswoman Letlow is proud to hold undergrad and graduate degrees from the University of Louisiana Monroe, where she also served in various capacities prior to her time in Congress. Her service in Congress every day is guided by her roles on the House Appropriations Committee and House Education and Workforce Committee, where she fights to deliver crucial funding for our communities and better education for our future generations.

Working for ULM, her alma mater, was an incredibly fulfilling experience that allowed her to pour into students and live out her passion for education. With a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Speech Communication, and a PhD in Communication, Julia’s interpersonal skills have sustained her during her tenure in Washington. She has also been truly blessed to serve as a voice for her home region in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2021. Her love for the people of her district, and Louisianians more broadly, prompted her

campaign. She is honored that her career is one in service to others. Never would she have guessed that life would take her down this road, where she would be a voice for her friends and neighbors in our nation’s capital. Congresswoman Letlow takes very seriously her responsibility every day to advocate for the needs of her constituents, our communities, and future generations.

As for personal accomplishments, Julia states, “I’m most proud to be the mother of two awesome kids, Jeremiah and Jacqueline. They are the light of my life, and I think of them every time I make a decision in Washington.”

Cassie Livingston

Community service is not just a calling for Juanita G. Woods — it is her life’s work.

A proud native of Monroe, Louisiana, Woods holds two bachelor’s degrees from Southern University and the University of Louisiana at Monroe, along with a Master of Public Administration from Grambling State University. After 15 years in Atlanta serving as a Director of Employee Relations, she returned home determined to expand opportunity across Northeast Louisiana.

As Deputy Director of Program Participant Services for the NOVA Workforce Institute of Northeast Louisiana, Woods has helped place more than 3,000 individuals into living-wage careers, creating an estimated $40 million in economic impact for the region. She has also been instrumental in securing nearly $7 million in funding for NOVA, strengthening workforce pipelines and connecting residents to sustainable career pathways in partnership with Louisiana Delta Community College and local employers.

For over a decade, Woods has served on the Monroe City Council District 3, earning the nickname “the Job Lady” for her promise to provide a “hand up, not a

As a founding member of the Women’s Symposium Board, Cassie Livingston has long championed the arts and the power of storytelling. In 2012, she launched BayouLife Magazine, creating a publication dedicated to celebrating the people and culture of Northeast Louisiana. Raised in Rayville, by a public school teacher, Cassie developed a deep respect for public education and the role it plays in shaping communities. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design from ULM and, at just 21, moved to Austin, Texas, where she worked for the Austin AmericanStatesman before becoming a marketing director for a large powersports company and then joining the Austin Business Journal as a sales executive with a focus in real estate. In 2008, she and her husband, Trent, returned home to Monroe.

Through each issue of BayouLife, Cassie’s influence can be felt across the community. She considers it both a joy and a privilege to spotlight the individuals who make a difference, finding purpose in ensuring others receive their well-deserved recognition. Her leadership and impact have earned her the James M. Shipp, Jr. Memorial Young Business Leader of the

handout.” Now in her third and final term, she continues to foster transparency and community dialogue through her signature “Chat & Chew” forums. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in accountability: listen first, act decisively, and build trust. As she often says, “Either I can fix it, or I can let you know why.”

Beyond City Hall and workforce development, Woods is an advocate for health equity through her service on the Northeast Louisiana Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation. She has also served as a Women’s Symposium panelist alongside community leaders including Janet Durden and Sue Nicholson, further expanding her network of collaboration among nonprofit, business, and civic leaders dedicated to strengthening the region.

A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for 50 years, Woods proudly holds “Golden” status — reflecting a lifelong commitment to service, sisterhood, and scholarship.

Through workforce development, public service, and civic leadership, Juanita Woods continues to demonstrate that lasting community change begins with opportunity, advocacy, and unwavering dedication.

Year Award and the ULM Golden Arrow Award, honoring an alumna who has achieved significant professional success. Cassie often reflects on the full-circle moment of once admiring community leaders from the audience and now serving alongside them. Though she admits to occasional imposter syndrome, she remains most proud of building and sustaining a print publication through the challenges of COVID and economic uncertainty in an increasingly digital world.

Of all her accomplishments, Cassie counts her daughters, Stella and Vivian, as her greatest. She finds her deepest fulfillment in raising strong, engaged young women who actively contribute to their community. Each year’s Women’s Symposium continues to inspire her, especially memorable moments like Lissy Compton’s 2025 keynote address. Watching the organization grow, including its intentional expansion to welcome men into the conversation, reflects a commitment to progress and an evolving vision for leadership.

Honorable Juanita G. Woods

Originally from Chicago, Jennifer Zimmerman came to Monroe 34 years ago and fell in love with the Louisiana culture (particularly the food) and its people. As the baby of 13 siblings, Jennifer was drawn to the community aspect of southern living, alongside the warmer weather and nicer people. A lifelong insurance agent, Jennifer began working in her uncle’s State Farm office in high school and was licensed shortly after. She served with State Farm for 25 years, ultimately opening her own agency - Delta Benefit Consulting - in 2013.

Foremost an advocate for small business, Jennifer is a community activist, helping encourage our community to Shop Local and plug into all local community events. She shares her journey with others, knowing that successful small businesses are the economic lifeblood of our community. Jennifer loves all opportunities to connect people and resources to give everyone opportunities to grow and prosper.

Jennifer is unafraid of making big moves, understanding that truly living means taking chances. Recently, she moved from home ownership renting a loft in

Antique Alley. After a property of interest became available, Jennifer signed the lease sight unseen. She knew her next stage of life was beginning, and her empty nest would take on a whole new view. Jennifer insists of Monroe/West Monroe, “We’re not a big city, but it can feel like a big city if you immerse yourself in it. Downtown is where I want to be.” Leaning into where she wants to be and how she wants to live is paramount for Jennifer: “I deserve this. I did a lot of what I didn’t want to do for so many years. It’s time for me now.”

Jennifer sought a position on the Women Symposium’s Board after identifying the key players behind the successful, annual event. Overwhelmed by the “powerful connection of women and energy of individuals” sharing space and ideas, Jennifer insists the organization represents “everything that I love.” She served as a board member for 7 years, invigorated by the “intellectual property of women.” Like her home relocation, Jennifer identified where the energy was and made room for herself - a trailblazer mentality.

Jennifer Zimmerman

SOUTHERN

SWEETHEART

This spring, step into a dreamy world of blush pinks and cherry reds with twirl-worthy dresses and accessories that sparkle with every step. These doll-inspired looks blend sweet softness with bold confidence, bringing a fresh, romantic charm to the season. Find these looks at local boutiques.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

MODEL JADA GEORGE

HAIR AND MAKEUP MEKA BENNETT

PALETTE HOUSE

This red eyelet dress features a flounced hem and belted waist. Perfect for Easter service or a date night, this look is the a must-have addition to your spring wardrobe.

MATERIAL THINGS

This blush pink dress offers the perfect balance of beauty and comfort. Smart, effortless, and ready for anything, this dress features a full zip front. Accessorize with sparrow studs, a multi-colored scarf and gold cuff.

HERRINGSTONES

This stunning off-the-shoulder dress offers a flattering fit and comfortable feel. The off-shoulder neckline and side slit add subtle edge, while the midi length works beautifully for all body types. Whether for a casual outing or a special event, this dress will have you turning heads. Pair it with a nude heel and Julie Vos necklace.

HEMLINE MONROE

This skort romper blends effortless glamor with sporty playfulness. Crafted in a soft pink hue, this romper flatters with its sleek strapless neckline, fitted waist, and flirtatious wrap-style skort bottom. Wear it with these sandals that feature floral embroidery and a shiny metallic finish, gold necklace and drop earrings.

ARTICLE BY PHIL TRAHAN

I’m often asked if winter is the offseason for tennis. The answer is that there is no offseason for tennis!

Defying the weatherman, Scott Smith at Squire Creek regularly schedules events for kids and grownups. See the winners of a couple events in the photo gallery. Meanwhile Katherine Sandifer and her Neville High team hosted a fundraiser event at the Charlotte Bolton Complex at Forsythe Park. And Joel McGregor at the MAC hosted a junior doubles tournament to usher in the high school season.

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Calendar of Events

For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com

March 1, 7, 8

SYAA Presents: The Spongebob Musical Head to SYAA for your favorite cartoon characters come to life right in front of you. With a score comprised of songs by Aerosmith, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Lady A, and more you won’t want to miss this show.

Hours: Saturday 2PM & 7PM, Sunday 3PM

Cost: $12 Student, $18 Adult

Venue: Strauss Youth Academy for the Arts, 1300 ½ Lamy Ln. Monroe, LA Phone: 318-812-7922

March 1, 4, 14, 15, 18, 24

ULM Baseball Game

Join the ULM Warhawks at Lou St. Amant Field!

Hours: Game Times Vary

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: Lou St. Amant Field, 518 Warhawk Way. Monroe, LA 71209

March 1, 3, 4, 10, 17, 31

LA Tech Baseball Cheer on the Bulldogs as they compete in these baseball series at The Love Shack!

Hours: Game Times Vary

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: J.C. Love Field, 1650 W Alabama Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: 318-257-3631

March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Creative Meetups

Gather with fellow artists to share ideas, techniques, and stories as you create art.

Hours: 6PM - 8PM

Venue: Kit Gilbert Studio, 301 N Trenton St. #3 Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: 318-202-3202

March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Trivia at Flying Heart

Think you’ve got the brains to win it all? Joining Flying Heart and Trivia Taylor every Tuesday for a familyfriendly trivia night.

Hours: 6PM

Venue: Flying Heart Brewing & Pub, 204 Commerce St. West Monroe, LA

March 3

RFM: Kids Kitchen Skills 101

Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen which is designed for kids ages 6 and up and focuses on building confidence

and foundational skills in the kitchen.

Hours: 6PM - 7PM

Cost: Varies

Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA

Phone: 318-957-1305

March 5, 7

LA Tech Women’s Basketball

Cheer on the Lady Techsters as they compete in these exciting basketball games!

Hours: Game Times Vary

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: Thomas Assembly Center, 1650 W Alabama Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: 318-27-3631

March 5

RFM: Flatbread & Wine Pairing

Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen. You will learn about building and baking using fresh, approachable ingredients, while being guided through a curated wine tasting designed to complement each flavor profile.

Hours: 6PM - 8PM

Cost: Varies

Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA

Phone: 318-957-1305

March 5-8

RCT Presents: The Stinky Cheese Man

This Junior Ruston Community Theatre production is full of fun music and witty narration accompanying the likes of ineloquent giants, sassy barnyard animals, colossal cow pies, and enough stinky cheese to go around.

Hours: Thursday-Saturday 7PM, Sunday 2PM

Cost: Adult $15, Student $8

Venue: Dixie Center for the Arts, 212 N Vienna St. Ruston, LA 71270 Phone: 318-255-1450

March 6-8

Big Creek Trade Days

Enjoy this shopping venue with a variety of local vendors, food, and live music.

Hours: Friday & Saturday 9AM - 5PM, Sunday 10AM - 4PM

Cost: $5 per car

Venue: 327 California Plant Rd.

Dubach, LA 71235

Phone: 318-680-1304

March 7-8

ULM Beach Volleyball: Bayou Bash Head to ULM to support the Women’s Beach Volleyball Team at their home tournament!

Hours: Game Times Vary

Venue: ULM Sand Volleyball Courts, 100 Warhawk Way, Monroe, LA71203

March 7, 14, 21, 28

Live Music at the VFW

Open to the public. Cover includes ticket for door prizes, BYOB, concessions available, non-smoking and family friendly!

Hours: 7PM - 11PM

Cost: $10

Venue: Monroe VFW, 1499 LA-594, Monroe, LA 71203

March 7, 14, 21, 28

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

March 9

Apero Wine Dinner: Tour de France

Enjoy a delicious 5-course themed dinner with custom wine pairings at Apero designed by their on-premise Sommelier.

Hours: 6PM

Cost: $130

Venue: Apero, 2252 Tower Dr. Suite 107, Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: 318-737-7441

March 11, 20, 21, 22, 24

GSU Baseball

Get ready to cheer on the GSU Tigers as they compete in these exciting baseball series!

Hours: Game Times Vary

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: Wilbert Ellis Field at R.W.E. Jones Park, Grambling, LA 71245

Phone: 318-274-3811

March 12

RFM: Brunch Basics - Biscuit Benedict

Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen where you will learn essential brunch techniques, including making flaky biscuits, perfectly poaching an egg, and preparing classic hollandaise sauce.

Hours: 6PM - 8PM

Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: 318-957-1305

March 13, 22

Krewe of Janus Texas Hold ‘em Poker Tournament

Test your luck and skill at the Krewe of Janus Den at their 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

March 13

Downtown Beer Crawl

Annual event featuring a variety of beer at local businesses in Downtown Ruston. You’ll receive a punch card with 17 beer tastings and a map.

Hours: 6PM - 9PM

Cost: $20 (must be bought in advance)

Venue: Downtown Ruston, 101 W Park Ave. Ruston, LA

March 14

Layton Castle Tours

Enjoy a tour of the beautiful Layton Castle through a guided tour of the house and grounds.

Hours: 10AM

Cost: $20

Venue: Layton Castle, 1133 S Grand St. Monroe, LA 71202

March 14, 28

Lagniappe Saturday Celebrate the afternoon with friends and family at Landry Vineyards and listen to live music.

Hours: 3PM - 6:30PM

Venue: Landry Vineyards, 5699 New Natchitoches Rd. West Monroe, LA

March 18

318 Day

March 18 or 3/18 is 318 Day! Since 318 is the area code for north and central Louisiana, it is the perfect way to celebrate the area we live and work in. Keep an eye out for what local businesses and organizations are doing to celebrate!

March 18

Women’s Symposium

The Women’s Symposium seeks to empower, motivate, and encourage girls and women from all backgrounds and all educational and professional levels to pursue their passions and seek leadership roles in their desired career paths.

Venue: Bayou Pointe Event Center, 10

Warhawk Way, Monroe, LA 71209

March 19-21

Spring Market

Join the Junior League of Monroe for an elegant Preview Party inspired by a Bridgerton-style Garden Party. Enjoy shopping, catering, and door prizes.

Hours: 10AM - 4PM

Cost: $15 - $40

Venue: Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expy. Monroe, LA Phone: 318-322-3236

March 19

Monroe Symphony Orchestra: String Chamber Concert

An evening of richly textured string repertoire in an intimate recitalhall setting.

Venue: Biedenharn Recital Hall, 200 University Ave. Monroe, LA 71203

Phone: 318-812-6761

March 19

RFM: Profiteroles Made Easy

Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen where you will learn how to prepare a light and airy choux pastry, fill and assemble profiteroles, and finish them with simple yet elegant toppings.

Hours: 6PM - 8PM

Cost: Varies

Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA Phone: 318-957-1305

March 24

RFM: Easter Cupcakes for Kids

Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen where your kids will decorate a variety of cupcakes, explore their creativity, and leave with their own beautifully decorated treats to enjoy or share.

Hours: 6PM - 8PM

Cost: Varies

Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA Phone: 318-957-1305

March 26

RFM: Loaded Potato Soup

Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen where you will build layers on flavor, achieve the perfect creamy texture, and finish the soup with delicious toppings.

Hours: 6PM - 8PM

Cost: Varies

Cost: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA

March 26

Randy Travis: More Life Tour

The More Life Tour features

the legendary country singer and his co-star in independent film The Price, James Dupre with Travis’ long-time touring band.

Hours: 6:30PM

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: Jack Howard Theatre, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expy. Monroe, LA

Phone: 318-329-2338

March 28

International Ballet Stars: Swan Lake

Experience the world’s most in-demand ballet and be astonished by Tchaikovsky’s legendary score coming to life with elegant, spellbinding dancers.

Hours: 7PM

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: Jack Howard Theatre, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expy. Monroe, LA

March 30-31

ULM Women’s Golf: ULM Invitational

The ULM Women’s Golf Team will host their ULM Invitational Tournament.

Venue: Bayou Desiard Country Club, 3501 Forsythe Ave. Monroe, LA 71201

March 30

Ouachita Green Annual Golf Tournament

Ouachita Green is hosting its annual Golf Tournament fundraising event. A 4 person team includes: 18 holes, golf cart, green tees, food, beverage, and a goodie bag.

Cost: $500 per 4 person team

Venue: Calvert Crossing Golf Course, 515 Hodge Watson Rd. Calhoun, LA

Phone: 318-355-5622