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2026 Trend Report SBC’s Basketball Greats Dr. Ricky Bass Concierge Medicine

PHOTO issue

SBMAG.NET | January | $3.00

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ARE YOU READY TO FIND A REHAB? Nova Vital Recovery Intensive Out Patient Program (IOP) Announces the acquisition and Merger of the Magnolia Recovery IOP and Sober Living Houses

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Coming in 2026 Nova Vital Recovery Residential Treatment Center/Natchitoches

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Willis Knighton Health Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a High Performing Hospital in 11 types of care: • Colon cancer surgery

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Find care now, visit wkhs.com sbmag.net | december 2025

PUBLISHER

EDITOR

G. Byron May

OWNERS

G. Byron May Seva May Noble Feldman

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Seva May

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Byron May CREATIVE DIRECTOR Logan May

PHOTOGRAPHY EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Byron May Michael Lee

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Stephanie Pringle Seva May Leisa Tompkins Heather Hilliard

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Teddy Allen Adam Bailey Casey Allen

GRAPHIC DESIGN May Marketing Group Emily Hammon

We had a great idea for the first magazine issue of 2026. Not only would we feature a handy, if not obligatory 2026 Outlook – we used Facebook to reach out to photographers to submit their work along with a bio. We would pick which ones we thought our readers would be interested in seeing in print. It would be a nice, colorful way to add a bit of beauty to the January issue, and it might give some talented photographers some publicity or just a platform to display their creative work.

HOW TO REACH US

Initially, we hoped for a modest turnout for our theme-free photography call. However, the response surpassed all expectations, with nearly 50 submissions pouring in via email and IM. This unexpected surge turned our selection process into a real challenge, forcing us to make some very tough calls for this month's layout.

www.sbmag.net

We narrowed it down to 12. But then...we had another great idea! (Yes, we are just full of them over here at the SB offices). Why don’t we include a photo spotlight in the next 11 issues of 2026? And that is exactly what we are going to do. The special section will be called “SB Captured.” Meanwhile, we hope you love the January Photo issue as much as we loved putting it together.

Send news announcements, story ideas, and other requests to editor@sbmag.net.

318.221.7264 • Fax 318.676.8850 850 Stoner Ave. Shreveport, LA 71101

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POSTMASTER Send address changes to SB Magazine, Inc., 850 Stoner Ave., Shreveport, LA 71101. SB Magazine is published monthly by SB Magazine, Inc., 850 Stoner Ave., Shreveport, LA 71101. Advertising Rates on request. Subscription Rate: $16 per year. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily constitute the view of SB Magazine, Inc. SB Magazine reserves the right to accept or reject advertisements. Third Class Postage Paid at Shreveport, LA 71101.

This publication features materials protected by the Fair Use guidelines of Section 107 of the Copyright Act. All rights reserved to the copyright owners. The information in this publication is believed to be accurate. However, SB Magazine cannot and does not guarantee accuracy. Opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. SB Magazine cannot and will not be held liable for the quality of performance of goods and services provided by advertisers or any other portion of this publication. SB Magazine cannot be responsible for unsolicited photographs or artwork. Photography credit will be given when such information is provided. All content included in or made available through SB Magazine, including but not limited to text, graphics, logos, images, and digital downloads, is the property of SB Magazine or its content suppliers and protected by United States and international copyright laws. The compilation of all content included in or made available through SB Magazine is the exclusive property of SB Magazine and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, transmit, display, publish, or broadcast any part of the content without the prior written permission of SB Magazine. Unauthorized use of any content may violate copyright, trademark, and other applicable laws and could result in criminal or civil penalties. For permissions requests, please contact SB Magazine at editor@sbmag.net 2000-2025 SB Magazine All rights reserved

2 december 2025 | sbmag.net

Imagine Your Event at

Set within the vibrant West Edge of beautiful Downtown Shreveport, artspace is a unique contemporary Arts Center with open gallery spaces that make it the ideal location for wedding celebrations, anniversaries, birthday parties, corporate events, and casual or formal occasions.

708 Texas St. Downtown Shreveport 318-673-6535

Book Your Rental TODAY at artspaceshreveport.com sbmag.net | december 2025

Photo Showcase

Feature Story 2026 Trend Report

Monthly Columns

See & Bscene

Home Feature

In the Greenroom

One On One

Beyond the Scoreboard

Cover photo by Laura Hood

On the cover

Genevieve Alexander Anna Dabbs Elizabeth Armstrong

4 december 2025 | sbmag.net

ORTFOLIO PERFORMANCE: Are you settling for the same old song and dance?

W E A LT H M A N AG E M E N T At Steward Partners

PoljakGroup.com 333 TEXAS ST., SUITE 2230 SHREVEPORT, LA 71101

318-674-4100 Securities are offered through Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC (“SPIS”), registered broker/dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Steward Partners Investment Advisory, LLC (“SPIA”), an SECregistered investment adviser. SPIS, SPIA, and Steward Partners Global Advisory, LLC are affiliates and collectively referred to as Steward Partners.

sbmag.net | december 2025

See & Bscene

AGORA BOREALIS Christmas makers and shoppers celebrated another festive

event at Agora Borealis. Patrons loved posing with a very trim Mrs. Clause while filling their Christmas lists with unique and colorful gifts.

Victoria Pouncy Jon Brennan Gilloon, Keegan Larsen, Katy Larsen, & Peggy Gilloon

Whitney Tates

Barnaby Blue & Tara Haskins Tara Haskins

Denise Dion & Tara Haskins

Ginger Briggs Chris Hand

6 december 2025 | sbmag.net

See & Bscene

CHRISTMAS IN ROSELAND

We all are familiar with the spectacular light show presented annually at the Rose Center. This year was one for the books. The Christmas in Roseland kickoff Night and Dedication held special meaning this year.

Marilyn Wellan & Carrie Bergs Bridgett O’Neal, Amanda Nottingham & Shantell Jordan

Marilyn Wellan & Todd Nottingham

Beth Smiley & Marilyn Wellan

Carrie Bergs, Billie Flynn, B.J. Abshire

sbmag.net | december 2025

See & Bscene

Northwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association Mardi Gras doesn’t truly begin until the Queens sit down for a proper tea. The Queens of Mardi Gras gathered for this special event hosted by the Northwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association.

Mary Ann Edens, Barrie Stephenson, Brittany Johnson, Jenny Hall

Traci Keen, Cindy Henry, Janie Byrge Boydstun, Angie Shannon Cason

Heather Courtney, Jennifer King, Bernie Bitting

Jennifer King, Sarah Whitney, Maryland Cresswell, Carlene Mudd

Latasha Davis-Cavanaugh, Jodi Shirley, Heather Courtney, Summer Tomasek

BOOKING WEDDING RECEPTIONS & REHEARSAL DINNERS. “SERVING THE FINEST FOR OVER 60 YEARS!”

Live Entertainment Nightly 8 december 2025 | sbmag.net

1601 SPRING STREET, SHREVEPORT 318.226.1325 ERNESTSORLEANS.COM

Maryland Cresswell, Barrie Stephenson

PHOTO SHOW CASE

Thresa Mouser, Lorie Woodard, Bernie Bitting

Shirleen McCorkle, Kim Burton

sbmag.net | december 2025

Ann Moss has been a professional videographer and editor for years. Photography serves as a hobby and for fun. She has lived in the New England area for most of her life but has recently relocated to Pensacola, Florida and has found fresh inspiration for her photography.

10 december 2025 | sbmag.net

sbmag.net | december 2025

Byron May was at the right place at the right time. It was the last day of a family vacation to Yellowstone National Park. Byron May saw something both breathtaking and unbelievable at once. Without hesitation, he raised his cell phone and started taking pictures. The composition was perfect – the colors were stunning.

12 december 2025 | sbmag.net

Donna Chance Hall of Donna Chance Hall Photography is an award winning, Shreveport, Louisiana based photographer who photographs families, seniors, toddlers, pets and also does landscape photography. One of her pieces is currently on display as part of Artport at the Shreveport Regional Airport. She is a retired Motion Picture Costumer and lives in South Shreveport with her husband, Winston Hall, a local piano entertainer and music historian.

sbmag.net | december 2025

James Netterwald is a father, fiancee, songwriter, painter and newly minted photographer from New Jersey.

14 december 2025 | sbmag.net

Johnny Seymour is an award winning photographer based in East Texas whose work focuses on sports, live music, and authentic storytelling. Whether he’s courtside, backstage, or documenting families and seniors, Johnny is drawn to the real moments— the expressions, intensity, and emotions that make each shot unique. His photography has quickly gained recognition throughout the region, especially within the local music scene. With Louisiana roots and a love for capturing people in their element, Johnny creates images that feel vibrant, natural, and full of life. sbmag.net | december 2025

My name is Josh Buckley. I'm a born and raised resident of the Shreveport/ Bossier area. where I've raised a wonderful daughter. I have always had an interest in art, but as a teenager I found photography. I've spent many years learning as much as I could to evolve my abilities. Hour spent in a darkroom to hours sitting at a computer. Never focusing on a particular style but I've had a passion for black and white photography. I haven't always had the time to devote to it but I still find time. I hope to share my vision of the world with everyone.

16 december 2025 | sbmag.net

Laura Hood sbmag.net | december 2025

Mike Brown is a photographer originally from St. Francisville and now based in Haughton, Louisiana. With more than 35 years of experience, he blends his photojournalism background with a passion for landscape photography. Mike also designs disc golf courses for Louisiana state parks and serves as the in-house photographer for XMARK Fitness in Shreveport.

18 december 2025 | sbmag.net

Karen Harrington-Artist Statement Painting fills my need to create and is my key to reaching inside to transform my passion for color into an outward vision. With my brush I go on an adventure to convey a story or an idea. Being a native of Louisiana and growing up in its natural beauty; I am moved to paint scenes of southern life, music, floras, abstracts and people in everyday activities. I derive joy from the creative process of painting and the endless possibilities to paint keep me excited and challenged. I have learned to enjoy the art journey not just the end product. My painting and photography is a celebration of life! sbmag.net | december 2025

Michael Lee Jr., widely known as /cedUp Mike, is a leading creative brand specialist based in Shreveport, Louisiana. With over 13 years of experience in photography, videography, and brand development, Michael is recognized for transforming visions into powerful visual stories. As the founder of lcedUp Studios, located inside Mall St. Vincent, he has built a fullservice creative hub that serves entrepreneurs, personal brands, and high-profile clients across the region. Michael's work is driven by a passion for elevating people, crafting premium content, and helping brands look and perform like industry leaders. From portraits and commercial campaigns to social media conten and advertising, he has become a trusted creative partner for businesses and individuals who want results that stand out. Today, Michael continues to expand his impact by empowering local creators, spotlighting talent, and pushing the culture of Shreveport forwarc through innovation, storytelling, and elite-quality visuals.

20 december 2025 | sbmag.net

Paige Bickham is the photographer behind Out of Bounds Photography LLC. She is based in North Louisiana, and focuses on capturing real moments—the kind that feel natural, emotional, and true to the people in front of the camera. She believes the best photos aren’t forced or overly posed; they’re the ones that tell a story and feel like you. sbmag.net | december 2025

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private schools in the

SBC

First Baptist Church School is a Preschool Mid 2s/Young K3 through 8th Grade school. Founded in 1970, FBCS has a rich tradition of providing an excellent academic education in a Christian environment. Our vision states: “First Baptist Church School strives to produce a generation of confident and self-directed lifelong learners with the strong academic discipline, technological skills, and personal faith necessary to realize their potential in God’s world.” To achieve this vision, our instruction is challenging, enriching, and differentiated for all types of learners. The academic instruction students receive is preparing them for the next phase of their education and their lives. Also, FBCS offers individualized and small group instruction during the school day which include programs for gifted students, students interested in music and the arts, students with language disabilities (dyslexia), STEM exploration activities, and general academic support. Our staff of educators are highly credentialed, passionate about our students, and committed to the success of each child. We have a holistic approach and are intentional about our teaching practice.

Since 1902, Loyola College Prep has been committed to forming students who lead with character, curiosity, and faith. As the region’s only Catholic high school, our mission is rooted in strong academics, vibrant student life, and a living Catholic identity that shapes everything we do. This year has been especially exciting as our community continues to grow and thrive. Enrollment is strong, our campus is energized, and our students are reaching new heights in and out of the classroom. Loyola’s tradition of Academic Excellence sets students up for success long after graduation. With a 12:1 student to teacher ratio, our faculty creates an environment where every student is known and supported. About 98 percent of our graduates go on to college, prepared not only with knowledge, but with the discipline and confidence that come from a Catholic education.

24 december 2025 | sbmag.net

The curriculum we utilize is based on national academic standards. Our student-teacher ratio is optimal, and because of this, we are able to be very strategic and individualized with our instruction. Technology, hands-on activities, and manipulatives are also utilized to support the instruction at every level. In addition to the core-subject curriculum, students enjoy a variety of enrichment classes, including Bible study every day and Chapel weekly. With a caring, experienced staff, First Baptist Church School provides students an experience that focuses on development in all aspects of their lives. At First Baptist Church School, we are rooted in tradition, led by God, and inspired by innovation! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram and come visit us in person! Sincerely, Ginger Gustavson Head of School

Student Involvement is part of our DNA. Flyers lead service organizations, join clubs, cheer on their classmates, and build lifelong friendships. Our athletic programs continue to shine, too. This year, Flyer Football set a new school scoring record, and last season both our girls and boys soccer teams competed in the state championship game. Moments like these reflect the heart, talent, and dedication of our students. Faith in Action guides all of it. Weekly Mass, service hours, and religion courses help students grow spiritually and understand what it means to live out our Catholic values each day. Come see what makes Loyola College Prep a special place. Schedule your private tour at loyolaprep.org/admissions.

Each year, parents of school-age children discern where their children will grow academically, socially, and spiritually. As you make that important decision, I invite you to consider St. Joseph Catholic School for the 2026–2027 school year. There are many reasons families choose St. Joseph. Some are drawn to our loving and safe environment, where every child is known and cared for. Others value the strong academic foundation that challenges students to reach their fullest potential and prepares them for success at every stage of life. Many families also seek a school where faith is at the heart of learning—where students are guided by Catholic virtues and formed into the individuals Christ calls them to be.

mission of educating and forming your children. Founded in 1953, St. Mark’s Cathedral School is a co-ed, Episcopal school serving children aged two through eighth grade. Our small class sizes allow teachers to give students the individualized attention they need to thrive. We offer vibrant classes that encourage intellectual curiosity and engage handson learning, including enrichments such as Christian education, STEM lab, art, music, global language, computer science, life

Word of God Academy exists to equip students for life and eternity. All portions of the educational environment must point children to gaining knowledge with the intent of advancing the name of Jesus. Through an authentic partnership with families, WOGA believes that all areas from the classroom to the athletic arena or platform, and everything in between, should have an intentional purpose. From Kindergarten to graduation, children spend 16,000 hours in front of a teacher. Who you choose to partner with in the education of your child is important. We value the partnership with families and look forward to seeing the ways God will use that partnership to educate, inspire, and equip future generations to come. Once a part of the WOGA family, always a part of the WOGA family.

With all this in mind, why not choose St. Joseph Catholic School? For nearly seventy-five years, St. Joseph has been a cornerstone of Catholic education in Shreveport. Since our founding in 1951, we have remained faithful to our mission: to assist parents—the primary educators of their children—in providing an education rooted in faith, knowledge, and service. As Pope Francis reminds us, education is “an act of hope.” In a world that presents many challenges, we embrace the call to offer that hope through education grounded in love and truth. We invite you to visit our campus and experience our community firsthand. Let us partner with you in this sacred

skills, and more. Our students attend weekly chapel services and incorporate prayer into the daily routine. We educate the whole child and offer many opportunities for athletics, arts, service, community-building, and many co-curriculars. Through our vigorous curriculum, small class sizes, and studentcentered approach, we help young people realize their potential and develop the confidence for lifelong success. Our graduates are routinely valedictorians, class officers, community leaders, and have earned millions in scholarship offers and attended the most selective of colleges and universities.

What makes Word of God Academy unique is our focus on partnering with parents through a Kingdom Education philosophy to equip students for life and eternity. We enroll students from preschool through 12th grade. WOGA believes that it is the role of the academy to partner with the home, not usurping the authority of parents. WOGA functions as an extension of parents and not a replacement of parents. With 480 enrolled, students are able to enjoy our co-curricular activities that consist of Basketball, Softball, Robotics, Worship Team, and Track & Field. The Upper School curriculum consists of all the basics, Math, Science, History, and English. WOGA offers Physics, Anatomy, AP English, AP History, Robotics, Technical Arts, Art classes and clubs, Programming, Yearbook, and every student takes Bible yearly.

sbmag.net | december 2025

RIVERFRONT REVERIE

A Mediterranean Estate for Gracious Living

Perched along a quiet bend of the Red River, where sunlight dances across wide water and bald cypress trees trace the horizon, a Mediterranean-inspired estate at 26 december 2025 | sbmag.net

207 North Beach Drive stands as one of Bossier City’s most quietly commanding homes. Built in 2008 and spanning 5,985 square feet on a 0.65-acre lot, the sixbedroom, eight-bath residence was conceived as both a private sanctuary and an entertainer’s retreat, its every room oriented toward the soothing presence of the river.

Mediterranean Inspiration, Southern Sensibility The home’s exterior speaks in the quiet language of the Mediterranean: warm stucco, graceful archways, and balanced proportions that suggest permanence and ease. Inside, the palette shifts toward warmth and softness—arched corridors, natural textures, and gentle transitions from

Rooms Framed by Water A Kitchen Crafted for and Light Gathering

space to space that invite unhurried living. Perhaps the most defining architectural decision was a simple but powerful one: every primary room and every bedroom was designed to capture a view of the river. The result is a home where water becomes more than a backdrop—it becomes a daily companion.

Upon entry, the river reveals itself through expansive windows that draw the eye outward. Living spaces unfold with quiet confidence, never competing with the view, always enhancing it. Natural light moves freely through the home, guided by intentional placement of windows and open sightlines that frame water and sky. One of the home’s most enchanting spaces is a rotunda-style study overlooking the river, a circular retreat ideal for quiet mornings with a book or evenings spent watching the changing light across the water. Nearby, a second-story office offers an elevated vantage point with sweeping river views—an inspiring perch for work or reflection.

At the heart of the home, the kitchen reflects both beauty and purpose. Custom knotty alder cabinetry brings warmth and artisanal texture, while Wolf appliances ensure professionalgrade performance for both everyday meals and grand-scale entertaining. Tucked just beyond, a wine closet with an iron door imported from France adds a note of Old World romance— an architectural jewel that feels as though it has always belonged. Open sightlines allow conversations to flow easily between kitchen, dining, and living areas, reinforcing the home’s role as a true gathering place.

sbmag.net | december 2025

Private Suites with Resort-Level Tranquility Each of the home’s six bedrooms features its own en suite bath, providing a level of privacy and comfort more often found in boutique resorts. Soft light filters into every room, and each enjoys unobstructed river views—an extraordinary and uncommon luxury. The primary suite is particularly serene, with tranquil water views

28 december 2025 | sbmag.net

a large infinity-edge pool with a lounging platform that visually merges with the river beyond. A spacious patio and fully equipped outdoor kitchen transform the river’s edge into an open-air living room— ideal for summer evenings, holiday gatherings, and weekends spent lingering outdoors. Lush landscaping frames the pool and patio with layered greenery, guiding views naturally toward the water while providing privacy and seasonal color. and a spa-like bath designed for restoration and retreat. Generous proportions, layered lighting, and custom finishes elevate the space into a personal refuge. An elevator space, thoughtfully planned into the original design, underscores the home’s long-term accessibility and ease of living.

Outdoor Entertaining, Elevated Beyond the interior, the home’s outdoor spaces are nothing short of extraordinary. The backyard unfolds like a private resort, anchored by

A Separate Guest Residence Complementing the main home is a garage apartment with a full bedroom, living area, and bath, offering remarkable flexibility. Whether used for extended family, visiting guests, or private office space, it functions as a true secondary residence within the property.

sbmag.net | december 2025

Built for Comfort, Efficiency, and Endurance The estate was constructed with foam insulation, lending exceptional energy efficiency and year-round climate stability—an often unseen yet invaluable feature in Louisiana’s demanding climate. Nearly two decades after its construction, the home remains strikingly current—its Mediterranean lines timeless, its open layout ideally suited to modern living, and its indoor-outdoor flow as desirable as ever.

Life Along the Red River What ultimately distinguishes this residence is not its scale or finishes—exceptional though they are—but its profound relationship to the river. Life here follows a softer rhythm, shaped by sunrise over water, afternoon breezes, and evenings when the river reflects the fading light like glass. With limited riverfront opportunities in the region, estates of this caliber are increasingly rare. Here, the river is not a distant feature—it is an ever-present companion, visible from nearly every room.

Grand Yet Inherently Welcoming Despite its nearly 6,000 square feet, the home never feels imposing. Instead, its thoughtful proportions create warmth within scale. Rooms feel generous but intimate, refined yet relaxed. From the quiet rotunda study to the wine room with its French iron door, from the outdoor kitchen to

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the infinity pool overlooking the river, every space reveals intention. Nothing is ornamental without purpose; nothing is luxurious without invitation.

A Timeless Setting for Its Next Chapter As the Louisiana sun dips below the horizon and the river softens into evening, the home settles into its most compelling role—not as a showpiece, but as a sanctuary for gracious living. Poised between river and sky, shaped by thoughtful hands and an enduring vision, this Mediterranean-inspired estate stands ready to welcome its next stewards—offering beauty not only in form, but in the way it invites life to be lived.

For more information about this home, please contact Mindy Wardlaw of Pinnacle Realty Advisors in Shreveport at 318-469-3261.

sbmag.net | december 2025

Commercial & Residential LAWN & LANDSCAPE SERVICE CUSTOMER SERVICE IS KEY!

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www.harriscustomlawncare.com 32 december 2025 | sbmag.net

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sbmag.net | december 2025

TREND REPORT 2026

Get Ready! 2026 is going to be UNSTOPPABLE! The SB Trend Report will help you better prepare to make this year a blockbuster success. It’s about time to plan out some of those major goals, and to find fresh inspiration in the way you look, feel, and dress. Might as well begin filling up your bucket list of things you want to do and see. Buckle up and get started!

TRENDY TECH

The Digital Tsunami: Wi-Fi 7, Blockchain, and AGI Buckle up, future dwellers! The digital landscape is about to undergo a seismic shift. Forget your grainy video calls and your confusing crypto wallets—we're talking about a trifecta of technologies that are graduating from "buzzword" status to "absolutely essential." Get ready for a deep dive into the forces that will redefine how you connect, transact, and even think by the end of 2026: Wi-Fi 7, Blockchain, and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). Wi-Fi 7: The Need for Speed Just Got Real Remember the first time you connected to dial-up? It was a miracle. Now, your old Wi-Fi 6 router feels like a digital bottleneck, struggling to keep up with your 4K streaming, simultaneous VR gaming, and 50+ smart home devices. Enter Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), the standard that finally makes your home and office networks future-

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proof. The goal isn't just to be fast— it’s to be smarter and more reliable. Wi-Fi 7 is expected to deliver theoretical speeds up to 46 Gbps (nearly five times faster than Wi-Fi 6) and introduce two game-changing features: 320 MHz Channels: By doubling the channel width (primarily in the newly available 6 GHz band), it's like adding several new lanes to your digital highway, allowing massive amounts of data to pass through without traffic jams. Multi-Link Operation (MLO): This is a genius move. Instead of connecting to just one band (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or 6 GHz), a Wi-Fi 7 device can connect to two or more simultaneously. If one band suffers interference, the connection seamlessly shifts to the other, dramatically reducing latency and eliminating those annoying video call freezes. For the Home: Say goodbye to "dead zones" and "buffering." True 8K streaming, high-fidelity VR/AR for gaming and fitness, and a massive density of IoT devices (from smart fridges to security cameras) will all work flawlessly and concurrently. For Business: MLO and reduced latency are critical for mission-critical applications like automated manufacturing, real-time cloud collaboration, and the proliferation of AIdriven business agents. Wi-Fi 7 ensures the core infrastructure is ready for the data demands of the next decade.

mundane, everyday tasks that require trust and transparency. Simply put, a Blockchain is a decentralized, immutable public ledger. Here's how it works: Transactions (data) are grouped into blocks, cryptographically secured, and then chained together in a chronological order. Because this chain is distributed across thousands of computers, no single entity can tamper with the record without everyone else knowing, making it virtually fraud-proof. How it Affects You in 2026: Supply Chain Traceability: You’ll be able to scan a QR code on your ethicallysourced coffee or high-end electronics and instantly see its immutable record—from the farm or factory to the store shelf—proving its authenticity and origin. This measure addresses counterfeit issues and substantiates ethical assertions. Decentralized Identity (DID): Imagine an identity you own. Your digital driver's license, academic degree, and medical history are stored securely on a blockchain. You grant permission to who can view it, instead of relying on a centralized corporate or government database, giving you unparalleled data sovereignty. Fractional Ownership: Blockchain enables the tokenization of real-world assets like real estate or fine art. You could own a small, verifiable fraction of a skyscraper or a rare painting, making high-value assets accessible to everyday investors.

Blockchain: BEYOND CRYPTO, Artificial General IT’S ABOUT Intelligence (AGI): TRUST You’ve heard of Blockchain— THE DIGITAL it's the technology that powers Bitcoin. But by 2026, its true POLYMATH impact won't be in speculative trading; it will be in the

While today’s AI (like the model writing this article) is Narrow

AI—brilliant at one thing, like writing or image generation— Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is the hypothetical next step: a machine with the ability to understand, learn, and apply its intelligence to any intellectual task a human can. It possesses the cognitive flexibility, common sense, and abstract reasoning we take for granted. Though true, self-aware AGI is still debated by experts, 2026 is seeing the widespread adoption of highly advanced "Agentic" AI systems that mimic AGI’s functionality. Autonomous Digital Agents: These aren't just chatbots. They are sophisticated systems that can autonomously set goals, break them down into steps, execute tasks across multiple software programs, and learn from feedback. They act as super-efficient personal assistants or enterprise analysts. Accelerated Scientific Discovery: AGI-like systems are being deployed to process astronomical amounts of research data, generate novel hypotheses, and even design experiments. In fields like materials science and drug discovery, this will drastically cut the time from concept to cure or invention. The M-Shaped Workforce: As AI agents handle automated, specialized tasks, human workers will transition into "M-shaped" supervisors— broad generalists who coordinate and manage the outputs of multiple AI agents, focusing on high-level strategy and emotional intelligence where the machines still lag. The world of 2026 will feel less like a gradual upgrade and more like a quantum leap. Wi-Fi 7 will provide the blazingfast, rock-solid foundation; Blockchain will introduce an unprecedented layer of trust to the digital economy; and the rise of sophisticated AI agents

TREND REPORT 2026 will radically reshape what it means to work and create. The future isn't coming—it's already setting up the router. Let’s just hope it never replaces human interaction in the process.

VACATION EXPLORATION

The Hottest Travel Trends of 2026

Ladies and gentlemen, put your carry-on luggage on the scale and prepare to pay for it—because travel in 2026 is officially here, and it's less about seeing the world and more about therapy disguised as tourism. The best travel trends include purpose-driven trips ("why-cations"), transformational travel, AI-powered planning, and a continued emphasis on wellness, sustainability, and slow travel. Other popular trends are unique stays like converted schools or hotels as the main event, multigenerational family trips, off-season "coolcations," and niche experiences such as astro-tourism, "hushpitality" (quiet escapes), and travel focused on community or heritage.

The Anti-Social Media Tour

After a decade of carefully curating our lives for The Feed, travelers are finally admitting that being an "authentic" local is exhausting. This year's breakout trend is "Dead Zoning," where travelers actively seek out destinations with zero Wi-Fi, zero 5G, and

preferably no electricity. The goal? To achieve true digital detox. Travelers want to be forced into the bliss of ignorance. Why spend hours finding the perfect filter for your sunset photo when you could be having a meaningful conversation with a goat?

Experience and Purpose-Driven Travel

Trips centered around a specific purpose, like a health retreat, learning a new skill, or connecting with a hobby. Journeys that aim to transform the traveler, often involving deep cultural immersion, learning, or adventure. Travel focused on connecting with locals, fellow travelers, or rewilding projects. A return to more traditional or nostalgic experiences, like luxury rail journeys or visiting places from literature.

Kidfluence and the Skip-Gen Trip

Why is it that our children are now demanding travel agents? I blame YouTube and television commercials for planting the little travel seeds and handing the kids influence, or “kidfluence” over the itinerary. Parents aren't planning trips; they're merely executing the vision of a six-year-old. But the real money is in the "Skip-Gen Trip." This is where parents intentionally ship their children off with the grandparents. The kids get spoiled rotten, the grandparents get to tell the grandkids to "put down that electronic and listen to a story about the War," and the parents? The parents finally get to take an LTT or "Little Treat Trip." That’s right—the new mini-break is a weekend trip booked solely to enjoy a quiet hotel room. Alone

and unbothered. Spending those luxurious uninterrupted moments doing exactly what you want to do. It's a spontaneous trip to a mid-level city, where the only required activity is sleeping past 7:00 AM. It’s glorious.

PET PROGRESS

Extreme Niche Tourism Travel has become so personalized that the itineraries are now indistinguishable from a dating profile bio. The days of "beach or mountains" are over. Say hello to:

What We Can Expect for Pets in 2026: The Age of the "Supersmart" Companion

Romantasy Retreats: Where you visit real-world castles and ancient ruins, but only so you can wear a poorly fitted velvet cape and wait for a fictional brooding vampire to whisk you away.

Athleisure Tourism:

A vacation built around participating in an extreme sport (e.g., a triathlon) but then immediately canceling the last two legs to spend the rest of the week in a luxury spa. It’s all the virtue with none of the actual effort.

The Cool cation: As global

temperatures rise, travelers are flocking to places known for being chilly. The new hot spot is anywhere that still requires a light jacket in July. Expect a surge in bookings for Reykjavik, the Canadian Rockies, or the Swiss Alps. So, get ready for 2026. Whether you're fighting a small child over the last package of foreign Cheetos, checking in to a remote cabin to escape your family, or just chilling in a meat locker for your "cool cation,"

one thing is certain: your next trip will be uniquely, hilariously you.

Your dog's Fitbit is timing its zoomies. Pet ownership in 2026 demands wellness, tech, and budgets. Expect AI health monitoring, gourmet supplements, and premium everything.

The year 2026 marks the official transition of "pet parent" from a cute term to a serious, data-driven job title. Fueled by younger, tech-savvy owners and continued economic uncertainty, the pet industry is doubling down on a few key, slightly absurd, but ultimately beneficial trends: 1. The Vet is in Your Phone (and Collar) Telehealth for pets is no longer a niche service; it's an expectation. Your pet’s health will be managed by a seamless loop of technology:

Smart Wearables: Nextgen collars and harnesses won't just track location and steps; they will constantly monitor vital signs (heart rate, breathing) and biomarkers. These devices, often enhanced with millimeter-wave radar technology, will turn your dog’s cage or your cat’s bed into a diagnostic hub, alerting you and your vet to subtle health shifts like a fever or a urinary pH imbalance before the visible symptoms appear. AI-Driven Diagnostics:

Automated feeders will dispense personalized nutrition, and AI will analyze video of your pet to detect subtle changes in gait or behavior that indicate pain or anxiety. Your pet won't just be monitored; it will be a constant, self-reporting data stream. 2. Premium, Personalized, and Probiotic Everything The "humanization" of pets is reaching peak absurdity, sbmag.net | december 2025

TREND REPORT 2026 although most pet owners will disagree – there’s nothing absurd about it. They are like our children and the focus on genuine wellness is real. When economic pressures push people to buy fewer items, they seek higher quality—and pets are no exception.

Customized Diets: Generic

kibble is out. Personalized, clean-label, and often fresh/ freeze-dried food is in. Nutrition plans will be tailored to your pet’s DNA, activity level, and real-time health data from their wearables.

will be a major trend. Expect demand for specialized behavior coaching, enrichment activities, and services like mobile pet trainers and felinespecific boarding facilities designed to reduce stress. In short, 2026 is the year your pet will be fitter, better fed, and more technologically connected than ever before. Now you just need to figure out how to afford their monthly subscription box of personalized, probiotic, insectprotein treats.

The Supplement Surge:

Just like humans, pets are getting their vitamins. Expect an explosion in functional treats and supplements focused on gut health (probiotics), joint care for aging pets, and calming formulas to combat the anxiety of constantly being watched by a smart camera.

Novel Proteins: Driven

by sustainability and allergy concerns, insect-based proteins and, eventually, labgrown meats will shift from niche novelties to mainstream, premium pet food staples. 3. The Wellness and Wallet Balancing Act 2026 will be defined by the tension between prioritizing your pet's "premium" needs and managing a tight budget.

Value-Focused Premium:

Pet owners will seek out tiered service packages, wellness membership plans, and customizable service bundles to make high-quality care more accessible. Pet insurance and flexible payment options will become non-negotiable necessities for younger owners. Mental Health Matters: With humans and pets spending more time together, and with the increased awareness of pet anxiety, pet mental health

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FASHION FORWARD FOR 2026

Step aside, boring basics—2026 is here to turn your closet into a playground of comfort, sophistication, and just the right amount of rebellion. This year, fashion isn’t just about what you wear; it’s about how you strut through life. Let’s break down the hottest trends that’ll have you serving looks from brunch to boardroom.

Oversized Knits: Cozy Royalty Forget those sad, saggy sweaters from last winter. 2026’s oversized knits are all about luxury and drama. Picture yourself wrapped in chunky cable-knits so plush, you’ll feel like you’re getting a hug from a cashmere cloud. Jewel tones? Yes, please. Open-weave designs? Peekaboo chic! Layer them over sleek dresses or tailored pants and you’ll be the coziest style icon on the block. Balloon Skirt: The Comeback Queen The balloon skirt is back—

and she’s had a glow-up. No more shapeless blobs; these beauties are sculpted, architectural, and ready to make you the main character. Whether you go mini, midi, or maxi, expect dramatic silhouettes in taffeta, denim, or heavy cotton. Pair with a simple top and let your skirt do the talking—day or night, you’re making a statement

Cropped Blazer: Waist-

Whittling Wonder Grandpa’s boxy jacket? Toss it. The cropped blazer is your new best friend, tailored to perfection and hitting just at the waist (or a smidge above). It’s all about elongating those legs and adding polish to any outfit. Wool, leather, satin—pick your poison. Unique lapels and quirky buttons keep things fresh. Wear it with high-waisted trousers or a flowy dress and watch your confidence soar.

Plaids: Heritage, But Make It Bold Plaids are back, but they’re not playing it safe. Think oversized buffalo checks, wild color combos, and deconstructed patterns that break all the rules. Full suits, statement coats, accessories—this isn’t your grandma’s tartan. It’s heritage with a twist, and it’s ready to turn heads. Teddy Coat: Snuggle in Style

The teddy coat reigns supreme, now in every color of the rainbow and textures you’ll want to pet all day. Faux shearling, long-pile fur, recycled materials—2026’s teddy coats are as sustainable as they are snuggly. Whether you’re braving the cold or just want to look like a chic marshmallow, this is your go-to for comfort and high fashion. Ready to rock 2026? With these trends, you’ll be the talk of every room—and maybe even the envy of your group cha

THE FIT FUTURE

Tired of the same old sweat sessions? Good news! The fitness landscape is undergoing a radical, techfueled transformation. In 2026, working out is less about just "the grind" and more about smart, personalized, and deeply holistic wellness. The days of one-size-fits-all programs are officially over. Get ready to meet your virtual twin, train your brain, and rest like a pro. The Rise of AI and HyperPersonalization The biggest game-changer? Artificial Intelligence (AI), paired with increasingly sophisticated Wearable Technology, is turning fitness into a science experiment tailored just for you.

Wearable Tech: Beyond Steps Wearables—smartwatches, rings, and patches—continue their reign as the number one trend. But it's not just about counting steps anymore. Advanced biosensors are now tracking your Heart Rate Variability (HRV), sleep quality, skin temperature, and even indicators like blood pressure and glucose. The goal is to move from simply collecting data to providing actionable, data-driven coaching. An AI algorithm can now tell you, "Your HRV is low today, skip the heavy lifting and focus on a mobility flow," maximizing results while preventing burnout. The Digital Twin Coach Imagine a "Digital Twin"—a virtual replica of you, built from all your biometric and workout data. This twin allows AI-powered personal trainers to create hyperpersonalized workout and nutrition blueprints that adjust

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TREND REPORT 2026 in real-time based on your body's readiness. This level of precision minimizes injury risk and ensures you hit peak performance when your body is truly ready, making every minute of your workout count. Holistic Health: Mind, Body, and Recovery 2026 solidifies the trend that exercise is not just about aesthetics; it's a vital tool for mental health and long-term vitality. Mental well-being is now a primary reason for exercise, often ranking ahead of fitness or appearance goals. This is driving the popularity of mindful movement like yoga, Pilates, and breathwork, as well as integrating simple mindfulness practices into traditional workouts (like a quick meditation after a strength session). The focus is on JOMO (the Joy of Missing Out) and prioritizing self-care, recognizing that rest and recovery are essential for sustainable progress. Recovery as a Core Workout Recovery is finally taking center stage. It's no longer an afterthought but a scheduled, essential part of the training cycle. Look for an explosion in Regenerative Fitness services. Gyms and specialized studios are installing hightech recovery tools like infrared saunas, cryotherapy chambers, and compression therapy boots that were once exclusive to pro athletes. This trend is fueled by the pursuit of longevity—staying strong and mobile well into old age.

Micro-Workouts: Maximum Impact, Minimum Time Aly Wilson and her team at Extreme Fitness have built their fitness model based on shorter, more intense, one-on-one workouts. This rise of the MicroWorkout is a blessing for busy professionals. Scientifically optimized to trigger a metabolic boost, a few 30-minute sessions can offer similar benefits to one long

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workout, proving that a little bit of movement, consistently, goes a long way. Immersive Fitness Worlds Fitness is getting a serious injection of fun with Immersive Fitness Worlds. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are transforming stationary equipment into interactive adventures. Instead of staring at a wall while running on a treadmill, you'll be racing virtual competitors through a digital forest or battling digital opponents while doing squats. This technology boosts motivation and makes the workout feel less like a chore and more like a game. In 2026, fitness is a highly personal, data-informed journey focused on overall health span, not just a quick aesthetic fix. Whether you embrace the full tech stack with an AI twin or simply use a mobile app for your microworkouts, the future of exercise is flexible, intelligent, and designed to fit seamlessly into your life. Mental Health and Well-Being The year 2026 is poised for transformative advancements in mental health, drug rehabilitation, and wellbeing, driven primarily by technology and a shift toward personalized, integrated care. Mental Health Breakthroughs and Advice The major breakthrough is the deeper integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in mental health care. AI-powered tools will move beyond simple chatbots to offer clinically validated, personalized support between sessions, streamline administrative tasks for therapists, and utilize predictive analytics to flag early warning signs of distress or crisis. Advice for 2026:

Embrace Continuous Care: Don't view therapy as an isolated, once-a-week event. Utilize digital tools and checkins (e.g., mood-tracking apps, digital coaching) to maintain a

consistent, proactive focus on your mental state. Prioritize Sleep: Research solidifies sleep as a core component of mental resilience. Adopt a strict sleep hygiene routine, as adequate rest is now recognized as a non-negotiable health parameter. Drug Rehabilitation Innovations Rehabilitation is shifting from a one-size-fits-all model to precision-based treatment. Breakthroughs include the standardization of dualdiagnosis care, treating co-occurring mental health conditions (like anxiety or trauma) alongside addiction as a single, integrated disorder. Furthermore, research into psychedelic-assisted therapies (such as psilocybin or MDMA) for opioid and alcohol use disorders is showing promise for sustainable remission rates. Advice for 2026:

Seek Integrated Care: If struggling with addiction, choose a program that explicitly offers integrated behavioral health treatment to address the underlying mental health issues. Focus on Long-Term Recovery: Understand that

sustainable recovery often requires a longer continuum of care (90+ days or ongoing support), including structured outpatient and recovery housing, not just short-term detox. Enhanced Treatment Model at Lincoln Nova Vital Recovery "Lincoln Nova Vital Recovery has adopted a long-term treatment model based on research showing that prolonged program involvement—both inpatient and outpatient—leads to more successful outcomes. To ensure patients can access the professional care they need, we now offer both morning and evening outpatient sessions, providing greater flexibility and removing common

barriers," said Jim Henry, Chief Operating Officer of Lincoln Nova Vital Recovery. Well-being Trends and Advice Well-being is evolving into a more holistic and data-driven practice. The key trend is the rise of somatic and body-based healing, which recognizes that trauma and stress are stored in the body, not just the mind. This involves an increase in practices like specialized breathwork, cold immersion, and bodywork (e.g., Rolfing/ Structural Integration) that complement traditional mental health practices. Wearable technology is also maturing, providing deep personalized data on heart rate variability, sleep quality, and stress response to inform daily habits.

Advice for 2026:

Merge Mind-Body Practices: Integrate movement like yoga, functional training, or Pilates with mindfulness. View resistance training as essential for metabolic, hormonal, and mental resilience, not just physical appearance. Optimize for Longevity:

Shift your focus from "antiaging" to optimizing your "vitality span"—the number of years you live with strength and independence. This involves emphasizing preventive health and recovery rituals like foam rolling and deep stretching. With mindblowing breakthroughs rocking the healthcare, travel, mental health, and fitness industries, there is absolutely ZERO excuse not to launch yourself onto the path to your healthiest, most vibrant life yet! But wait, there's more! Throw in revolutionary advancements in technology and pet care—making our furry friends happier and healthier than ever—and the dazzling, constantly evolving landscape of fashion trends, and you've got a recipe for a truly spectacular, fascinating, and utterly exhilarating year! Prepare for an incredible ride!

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DEADLINE: January 9, 2026 Peer Nomination and People’s Choice Categories Look for the results in the March Issue

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BREAD TRIBUTE BAND, BY CASEY ALLEN

“TOAST”

TOAST: The Best of Bread is coming to The Strand Theatre Friday, February 13 at 7 p.m. Toast is the No. 1 Bread Tribute Band in the world. Bread had 13 hits on Billboard’s Top 100 in its early 1970’s heyday when the group pretty much invented soft rock, or “yacht rock,” as it’s called today. Some of Bread’s biggest hits include ‘Make It With You,’ ‘If,’ ‘Baby I’m-a Want You,’ ‘Diary’, and ‘Everything I Own’. Bread has only two surviving band members left. David Gates and Robb Royer are retired and have put an end to their jamming. However, audiences are raving about how close Toast sounds to the original band; shows are selling out all around the country. Toast begins its upcoming tour January 8 in Logan, Utah at the Ellen Eccles Theatre. The band has more stops scheduled in the Northwest, including Montana and Idaho, before heading south to Houston in late January. Toast is scheduled to perform at the Manship Theatre in Baton Rouge the night before coming to the Strand. Toast will end their United States tour in Branson in November.

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, JAMS IN SHREVEPORT

Tulsa-born David Gates was the frontman of Bread. The band was formed in Los Angeles after Gates left Oklahoma to check out the music scene on the west coast. The other original band members were Robb Royer and Jimmy Griffin. In 1969, Mike Botts became the band’s permanent drummer, and in 1971, Larry Knechtel replaced Royer. “Dismal Day” was the band’s first single in 1969 but did not chart. Their self-titled debut album was released later in the year and peaked at No. 127 on the Billboard 200. Bread appeared in concert for the first time in the summer of ’69, opening for the Flying Burrito Brothers. The following year, the band released their second album, On the Waters, which peaked at No. 12 on the Billboard 200. The album included the single, “Make It With You,” which would turn out to be Bread’s one and only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Bread had arrived. Their third album, Manna, peaked at No. 21 and included the Top 5 hit single, “If”. In ’72, Bread released their most accomplished album, Baby I’m-a Want You. The album hit No.

3, as did the title track. They had two more singles off the album go Top 20, as well. As bands do, Bread split (whether down the middle or diagonally, we do not know) in 1973. But toast is keeping the vibe alive with a show that includes all the top hits from Bread. The tribute band consists of six members: Jeff Clark on lead vocals, keyboard and guitar, Brett Hart on drums and vocals, Rich Bischoff on lead guitar, Ken Shumway on bass, Troy Jolley on keyboard, and John Hanson serves as sound engineer and plays rhythm guitar. Toast frontman Jeff Clark was born in Utah and learned to play piano by ear. When he listened to his Bread albums, he would envision one day playing their songs on stage. Brett Hart has been drumming since he was 11 and performed with jazz bands throughout his college years. Hart, along with bandmates John Hanson, Ken Shumway and three others, formed the band Vision, the core of which has remained together for over 40 years. Hart takes pride in honoring Mike Botts, Bread’s original drummer. Rich Bischoff has over 35 years of experience playing guitar for various bands in Utah, including Animation, The Wind River Band, and Red Shot Pony, to name a few. He runs a recording studio in Utah called Studio 14 Sound. He also has a YouTube channel where people get a behind-the-scenes peak of the life of a musician. Ken Shumway taught himself how to play the bass guitar by listening to Gene Simmons on his Kiss albums. When his neighbor, John Hanson, bought an electric guitar in ‘79, the two formed their first band. Ken also writes and produces his own music, which can be found on his YouTube channel. Troy Jolley originally hated the mandatory piano lessons his mom made him take when he was 8, but he grew to love playing and spent many hours in his basement with his keyboard and computer composing and re-creating songs. When John Hanson auditioned for a dance band in college, he crossed paths with Brett Hart. Hanson and Hart, along with Ken Shumway, formed the backbone of Vision, and the rest is Toast. Tickets to see Toast are available on The Strand Theatre website or by calling the box office at 318226-1481.

sbmag.net | december 2025

Shreveport Direct Care

A Hybrid Model for Personalized Health In an era of rushed appointments and complex insurance hurdles, a growing number of physicians are adopting models that prioritize the doctor-patient relationship and offer unprecedented access to care. Dr. Ricky Bass—a general internist and pediatrician who previously spent 23 years at LSU—sheds light on his transition to a hybrid direct primary care/ concierge practice, detailing the benefits, challenges, and fundamental shift in healthcare philosophy.

The Direct Primary Care Difference: Access and Simplicity With the slogan: Modern Medicine. Old School Experience, Dr. Bass believes that the core of this practice model is simplification and access. Instead of the traditional, often opaque insurance-based system, most patients pay a straightforward monthly fee for their care. This fee, currently quoted at just $109 per month with a one-time $250 initiation fee, covers all visits with the doctor. This is a dramatic departure from the old system, which saw Dr. Bass managing a panel of 2,500 to 3,500 patients, leading to a high-stress, volumedriven environment. Now, the patient panel is typically capped between 400 and 600, allowing for more focused, unrushed care. A key benefit is the inclusion of a pharmacy plan. The practice offers about a thousand common medications for free via a mail-order service. For patients with high deductibles or no insurance, this alone can result in significant savings.

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Beyond the Exam Room: Unprecedented Patient Access One of the most revolutionary aspects of this model is the direct, unmediated access to Dr. Bass. Unlike the old days where getting a hold of the doctor was difficult unless you had a personal connection, current patients can text, email, or call the doctor directly. "Patients can email me. They can text me. They can call if they need to... I've found that the patients are super, respectful of it." This level of access eliminates the need for many Urgent Care visits, which are often time-consuming, expensive, and expose the patient to other illnesses. For example, a parent can text about a sick child in the evening, and the doctor might offer an early morning appointment before the clinic officially opens.

Furthermore, “patients in this model are more invested in their health and, consequently, more likely to follow advice, leading to more rewarding clinical outcomes for both parties. The model promotes a “wait and see” option when appropriate, where patients can call me if a symptom doesn't improve, rather than immediately embarking on expensive and time-consuming testing.”

Financial Transparency and Savings The direct pay model introduces tremendous financial transparency and tremendous cost savings for patients, particularly for common diagnostic tests.

"They can text me at 8:00 at night tell me, little Johnny has an ear infection. I'll meet them at the clinic at 7:30."

Dr. Bass leverages cash pricing for labs and even imaging like X-rays and CAT scans, bypassing the high markup associated with insurance billing. This is a huge advantage for patients with high-deductible plans or those who are relatively healthy and simply want their routine care covered without having to meet a deductible.

A Collaborative and Empowering Approach

Specialized Services and LongTerm Planning

The increased time with patients—often an hour or two for the initial visit— fosters a collaborative approach to health. This deeper relationship means Dr. Bass is better able to meet most of the patient's healthcare needs. He estimates he can handle about 80% of typical concerns, reducing the need for immediate specialist referrals.

In addition to general primary care, Shreveport Direct Care offers specialized services, including weight loss management and men’s health (e.g., testosterone replacement). Perhaps most notably, Dr. Bass offers cognitive testing to help patients proactively manage their brain health, especially in the context of

neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. "I offer cognitive testing that people can do every year... The hope is if you start getting tested when you're about my age (establishing a baseline) maybe we'll see a slow worsening if that's what's going to happen." The discussion also touched on the critical need for endof-life planning, an issue Dr. Bass sees often in his hospice work. The relaxed atmosphere of the direct care model allows for crucial conversations about medical power of attorney and advanced directives, helping families avoid devastating conflicts and ensuring patient wishes are honored.

know a dedicated, accessible physician is just a call or text away.

Dr. Ricky Bass and his wife Stephanie manage his practice located at 670 Albemarle Dr Suite 901, Shreveport, LA 71106

www.shreveportdirectcare.com Info@ShreveportDirectCare.com

P: 318-588-7060

The Hybrid Medicare Model For Medicare patients, the practice operates as a hybrid. Because Dr. Bass also works in hospice and nursing homes (which require Medicare billing), he cannot "optout" of Medicare. He must bill Medicare for covered services. However, since most Medicare patients do not have a co-pay, their experience is largely the same as the direct primary care patients—no additional payment is required for the visit. Ultimately, Shreveport Direct Care’s model represents a significant evolution in healthcare, putting the power of access, time, and collaborative decisionmaking back into the hands of the doctor and the patient. It offers a "peace of mind" factor, not just for the patient, but for their families, who sbmag.net | december 2025

Beyond the Scoreboard

Hoop Roots Shreveport-Bossier’s Quiet Dynasty

In the sticky summer swelter of northwest Louisiana, where the Red River snakes between Shreveport’s historic brick facades and Bossier City’s sprawling strip malls, basketball isn’t some imported glamour—it’s etched into the DNA. Gyms like Woodlawn High’s echo chamber, with its warped hardwood scarred by decades of pivots, or Fair Park’s barebones arena, where the walls still whisper of upsets past, have been proving grounds for generations. Here, amid the roar of packed bleachers and the sizzle of halftime hot dogs, the Twin Cities have quietly minted NBA champions, All-Stars, and college grinders who hauled local grit to the national stage. This isn’t Durham or Lexington. It’s Shreveport-Bossier— where hoops demand heart over hype, and legends rise from red-dirt driveways. No one towers larger than Robert Parish, the 7-foot1 colossus born in Shreveport on August 30, 1953. At Woodlawn High, he wasn’t just tall—he was a force of nature, captaining the Knights to the 1972 Louisiana Class AAAA state championship as an All-American center who swatted shots like flies. College took him to Centenary, then the NBA, where “The Chief” became the iron man of big men: 21 seasons, four Boston Celtics titles alongside Bird, McHale, and DJ, 14,715 rebounds, and a spot in the Hall of Fame. Parish’s stoic dominance—rarely smiling, always rebounding—mirrored his hometown’s unflashy resolve. Today, he rides as grand marshal in the Krewe of Centaur parade, a living link to Shreveport’s hoops soul. Fair Park High bred its own aerial assassin in Stromile Swift, a wiry phenom whose dunks turned heads from Shreveport streets to LSU’s PMAC. In 1999, his sophomore explosion— raw athleticism fused with improving polish—catapulted him to the No. 2 overall pick by the Vancouver Grizzlies. Swift’s NBA arc peaked with thunderous jams that lit-up SportsCenter, though injuries clipped his prime; still, he embodied Fair Park’s underdog ethos, proving you could leap from District 1-4A obscurity to lottery stardom. Across the river in Bossier City, the fire burned with equal ferocity. Jalan West orchestrated Bossier High’s 2011 LHSAA state title charge, a point guard maestro whose quicksilver handles and vision earned All-Southland laurels at Northwestern State. Shreveport native Joe Dumars, though polished at Natchitoches Central, carried Twin Cities roots to McNeese State, then the Pistons, where his silky jumper and lockdown defense snared two NBA rings against Jordan’s Bulls—Hall of Fame poise born of Louisiana clay. Antawn Jamison, another Shreveport product, slashed from local courts to UNC’s 1998 Final Four run, then tallied 20,042 NBA points over 16 seasons, including two All-Star nods with the Warriors and Cavaliers—smooth scoring rooted in backyard battles.

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By Adam Bailey

Legends Beyond the Pros

The pipeline runs deeper, flooding college ranks with Shreveport-Bossier standouts who never chased NBA lights but owned their lanes. •Greg Procell, a scoring savant from Ebarb, just outside Shreveport’s orbit, rewrote history at the high school level with 3,173 points in his senior season alone (1970) for a 46.7 PPG average, including a state-record 100-point game and 20+ points in 138 straight games, cementing his legendary status in high school hoops history. •Randy White, the 6-foot-8 rebounding brute from Shreveport, anchored Louisiana Tech in the late 1980s, yanking boards and swatting shots in Ruston arenas that echoed his hometown tenacity. •Brion Rush lit up Grambling Lab’s court before Grambling State, where his sharpshooting carried him to pro stops overseas—a Shreveport sniper who never missed a green light. Woodlawn still bows to Parish’s shadow on championship banners; Fair Park reveres Swift’s highlight-reel flights.

The Eternal Court Pulse

These stories aren’t anomalies—they’re the Shreveport-Bossier blueprint: pickup wars at Lee Hedges Stadium courts, AAU summers in the heat, high school playoffs that shut down I-20. Captain Shreve, Parkway, Calvary—every gym pulses with kids eyeing the next leap, from state semis to March Madness dreams. Tonight, as sneakers screech and crowds chant, this legacy endures—unpretentious, unbreakable, a quiet dynasty proving northwest Louisiana breeds ballers who play for legacy, not likes. From Parish’s rebounds to Swift’s slams, they’ve marked the game forever—hoops royalty, and Twin Cities tough.

sbmag.net | december 2025

FRIDAY

JAN|23|2026

7:30 PM THE RUNAWAY INTERNATIONAL HIT IS COMING TO SHREVEPORT! Known across the globe as “the ultimate-feel good show,” THE CHOIR OF MAN offers up 80 minutes of indisputable joy for all ages! It’s a party. It’s a concert. It’s the best pub “lock-in” you’ve ever been to! According to The Chicago Tribune, “the Choir of Man is just the thing for a warm spirited night on the town,” while The Daily Mail calls this runaway international hit “Exhilarating!” Featuring pop, classic rock, folk, Broadway and pub tunes, THE CHOIR OF MAN has something for everyone. A multi-talented cast of nine talented guys combines hair-raising harmonies, foot-stomping singalongs, world-class tap dance and poetic meditations on the power of community in this riotously enjoyable homage to that gathering place we all love so much: your local pub. With a real working bar on stage, come ready to drink in the action. The first round’s on us. Cheers!

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thestrandtheatre.com | (318) 226-8555

PHOTOGRAPHY PRINTS, ANNERS, SCANNING & GEMENT AND MORE!

SMALL. We print it ALL REPROGRAPHICS, ART/PHOTOGRAPHY PRINTS, BUSINESS CARDS, BANNERS, SCANNING & DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT AND MORE!

THINK BIG. THINK SMALL. We print it ALL

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And they call it ‘puppy love’? Seriously? By Teddy Allen Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu If you got a puppy dog for Christmas and he or she is driving you crazy, remember: It gets better. And better and better. We don’t deserve dogs. It’s an even-money bet that God made them just to show us what we could have been if we were more humble, more loving, a whole lot more selfless. But I remember The Puppy Days. We can’t discount them. The nightmare is something like this … What happened? Somebody tell me, please: where did it all go wrong? Was it when I was cleaning up pee pee or picking up poop? Maybe it was when this tiny gift from God (He gets blamed for just about everything, so why not this?) started yelping at 3 a.m. All these mornings. In a row. A high-pitched, terrifying yelp, like a supersonic jet scraping its fingernails across a giant chalkboard of sky. I’m pretty sure it was at one or

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all of those times when I asked myself, “Do you think that maybe you’ve made a mistake?”

September Tuesday. Hurt me. And left us with a question most of you have had to answer:

They say that, once a baby has some size on it and starts doing things to make its parents laugh and more deeply love, the mom forgets the pain of childbirth. So, she has another child, forgets again, and has another one.

When a puppy or a pet of any kind passes, how long do you wait until you get another one? Or do you get another one at all? Some people said you’d “just know” when it was time. Some said to get another one as soon as you could: one of my friends made it three whole days before getting a new dog, another made it two weeks. I had a Mississippi friend tell me years ago he “couldn’t” get another dog like the faithful black lab he’d had for years. “Hurts too bad,” he said. Different strokes. In these type matters that require careful analysis, I usually just rely on a whirlwind of indecision. So... The dog finder I live with discovered, most efficiently, a batch of Mississippi Maltese dogs in the oven; they were born not long after Lily, herself a Mississippi Maltese, passed away. They grow good little dogs over there. The nice breeder even sent us pictures of the litter. You could fit all five newborns into the palm of your hand. Looked like little white rats.

It ensures survival of the species. There can be no other reason for this, because we were all hard to raise compared to say, watering a plant. So, a lot of moms did a lot of forgetting all the trouble we put them through, and this is evident because if you just look around, there are people who were once babies practically everywhere. Plus, there are lots of babies. And there are lots of puppies. Some of them are being raised by middle-aged people who’d back-burnered the challenge of puppyhood, who don’t have the puppy-raising energy of their ignorance-is-bliss youth. One of those puppies is at my house. Purple and white pansies and red sasanqua petals cover Lily now, our almost-9 Maltese who passed away on a dreary

And one of those rats came to live with us. Her name is Gracie Lou and she is crazy. She is 9 now, a grizzled veteran, but I have not forgotten her tameless youth and our late-night tears over the “blessing” of this little bundle of Section 8 Looney Tunes. Lawdy lawd... You forget that your muchadored grown dog who calmly watched games with you and helped you mow and knew how to use the escape hatch into the backyard bathroom was once a puppy too. Or that we were all pups at one time, in need of a helping hand and a diaper change. If you got a Christmas puppy, remember that by May or June, your four-legged youngster will be ready to dress out with the varsity. Until then, it’s going to be the little kennel at night, a 5 a.m. backyard visit, the playpen in the afternoons, and a lot of patient one-on-one coaching. Remember this if you are puppy-minded. There are no bad pets: just bad pet owners. It takes patience, more patience, teamwork, and prayer. Oh, and some paper towels.

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JAN 2025 SB Magazine