Made by Angels

PICKLES ARE ONE OF AMERICA’S FAVORITE CONDIMENTS. Starting out as the humble cucumber, after being added into a saltwater brine for approximately three to four weeks, they are ready to eat straight out of the jar or, better yet, paired with just about any sandwich or hamburger. For some, a pickle jar has double the fun, as some pickle fans enjoy drinking the tangy brine, finding it refreshing, especially on hot summer days. Overall, pickles are familiar and are expected, happy pairings to some classic American favorites. With that said, there are a few people that are pushing the bounds of this seemingly straightforward snack by pairing it with another cemented American childhood favorite, Kool-Aid! Before you run for the hills, this niche combination, though strange, has been a popular treat in the south, especially in the Delta. The process is simple. Kool-Aid, sugar, and pickle juice are whisked together, poured into a jar with the spears ready for transformation, then refrigerated for about a week. It’s fine to admit that Kool-Aid pickles or koolickles, may seem like a crazy twist, but the sweet and tangy union further proves that opposites do attract. Tapping into this culture is family-owned Kewl-Aid Pickles Made by Angels, a locally owned company ready to spread the fun of this new snack, giving it its own tasty and unique twist.

Alesia Angel, registered traveling nurse, created Kewl-Aid Pickles Made by Angels alongside her sons Erik Angel (CEO) and Frederick Culpepper (Co-Vice President). “We wanted to take a cultural thing and try to make it mainstream,” says Alesia. While many people make koolickles at home, selling them out of the trunk of their car at football and basketball games, being a registered nurse, she didn’t want to go that route. “We wanted to put science behind our product,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of guaranteeing a safe food product for the public. With the help of an independent lab based in California and the Louisiana State University AgCenter, they were able to expedite their product. “The pickle has been tested for yeast, mold, pH, water activity, and shelf life,” she adds. Having completed the nutrition test, the company is now a certified Louisiana product, approved by the Louisiana Department of Health, and registered with the FDA.

Their logo, like the company name, is a play on their product and family surname. A short red pickle spear with angel wings sporting a halo gazes to the side with cartoon eyes and a smile. Currently, you can spot this adorable product mascot at Mac’s Fresh Market and Randall’s Fine Meats and Deli, and about 12 convenience stores in the area. The mother-son team has also reached out to regional schools. So far, Richwood Middle School and Carroll Junior High School are all enjoying the crazy cool flavors that this one-of-a-kind company is offering. Interested and curious customers can now choose from Black Cherry, Watermelon, Green Apple, Cherry, Grape, Blue Rasberry, or the signature flavor Tropical Punch (now available with Splenda), all made from Alesia’s special powder blends. “Once you try it, most people fall in love with it,” asserts Alesia, describing the taste of the curious paring as “a cool, sweet, salty, crunchy pickle” with a kick at the end. “It has a hint of something,” she adds, keeping the responsible ingredient a secret for good reason.

With plans to keep expanding their product line, the Angel team has an enjoyable treat that is meant to refresh your palate and keep you cool during the scorching summer. Kewl Aid Pickle will take the form of huckabucks, frozen koolickle juice in all the existing flavors offered by the company. “It’s like a harsh Slurpee,” says Alesia who was inspired to transform her product based on the many rave reviews she has received about her pickle juice. Adding to this fun product will be luxury huckabucks, topped with candies, a sure favorite with kids.

With a new grandbaby that is four months old, Alesia and her sons are driven and dedicated to establishing a legacy that lasts for generations. “I wanted to start for generational wealth for my children, she says, adding, “to make sure I can have something and leave something for my children and for my grandchild for his college fund, she says. The Angels want their customers to know that their company is about family, growing together and alongside each other. The love they hold for their business is more so a reflection of the love they have for each other, a love they are hoping to share with the Northeast Louisiana community one pickle spear at a time. Though the idea of Kewl-Aid pickles may raise a few brows, in this case, you’ll definitely want to try it before you knock it. You may find yourself becoming a believer. After all, Kewl-Aid Pickles are made by Angels.

IT’S ONLY A NAME CHANGE. SAME GREAT SERVICE WITH the same great people. We want to welcome Dr. Liseane Koga of Koga Orthodontics to our area. As she is the only female solo owner orthodontist practicing in North Louisiana, she would like to share her story and the vision of her team with all of her patients past, present and future.

Dr. Koga was born and raised in the south of Brazil. She is a graduate of the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande Do Sul dental program where she completed the first of two Orthodontic residencies. In 2013, the Whirlpool Corporation invited Dr. Koga’s husband, Tiago Koga, an MIT graduate, to work at their headquarters in Michigan as an engineer. Despite the challenges and sacrifices of moving to another country, she saw it as a great opportunity to grow professionally and personally. She enrolled in the orthodontic fellowship program at Indiana University where she studied dental and facial growth disharmonies. This included the extensive treatment of cleft lip and palate patients. As a non-US citizen, she overcame the language barrier as well as the trials that come with living, studying and working in a new country and obtained her American citizenship. With her persistence and determination, she completed her second orthodontic residency by receiving her masters and certificate in orthodontics at Indiana University.

After graduating Dr. Koga went right to work in private practice in Michigan and Indiana where she expanded her knowledge base with the Damon system, Herbst appliance, and Spark clear aligner therapy. After years of practicing with a partner, Dr. Koga and Tiago decided to move from the Northern part of the US to the Southern region. They were looking to escape the snow and relentless long winter months. They dreamed of living in a region that resembled their home in Brazil. In the process of relocating, they met Dr. Glenn Hummel and became instant friends. There was a friendship made that was almost instantaneous between the two doctors and their families.

Dr. Hummel has mentored Dr. Koga the past few months and they have worked hard to transition their patients in a seamless manner. Every aspect of Dr. Koga’s treatment of her patients will be carefully planned. No stone will be left unturned as her motto for the practice is “Your Smile, Our Passion.”

Besides being highly educated and additionally trained in America Dr. Koga a is very outgoing and attentive person. She strives to be as warm, caring and kind as the people who have welcomed her here. She considers her patients top priority and will guide her team to give the same top notch treatment that her patients deserve. In addition to a mindset and attitude of excellence, Lis is bringing the latest technology and orthodontic techniques to Koga Orthodontics.

When Lis is not working, she loves the outdoors and going on long walks with her husband and her dog, Riley. They also like the southern cuisine, trying new restaurants and flavors because they are “foodies.” One of her favorite past times is cooking for friends at her home as she needs them to try her new recipes! Additionally, the Kogas also enjoy traveling and meeting new people in all of the regions of the US and around the world.

Dr. Koga wants to thank all of the local dentists and people in our community for the warm and inviting welcome. She will continue to see patients in the same Monroe location at 2124 Forsythe Ave. as well as the satellite offices in West Monroe, Rayville, and Columbia. She is grateful for the opportunity to practice and bring her talents to our area.

Whether you are an existing patient or looking for information on achieving an amazing smile, contact us at 318.388.4209 or kogaorthodontics@gmail.com or follow us at Koga Orthodontics on Facebook. You will receive care with cutting-edge technology in an atmosphere that is fun and family-oriented. Dr. Koga and her team love working with patients who want to boost confidence and self-image and improve their oral health and function by giving them beautiful and healthy smiles for life.

Koga Orthodontics offers patients a number of treatments to suit a variety of orthodontic needs. They treat each person with individualized care and strive to create smiles that exceed any patient’s expectations. Some treatments include: • Traditional braces with clear or metal brackets • Clear Aligners • Damon self-ligating braces • Herbst appliances • Surgical cases

Schedule a New Patient Consultation Today! Your Smile, Our Passion! Koga Orthodontics 2124 Forsythe Avenue Monroe, LA 71201

BY DARIAN ATKINS

MARIAM SAEED WAS BORN IN FORT WAYNE, Indiana, and moved to Yemen when she was three years old. Upon returning to the states at age eleven, Saeed only spoke Arabic.

Saeed’s parents moved to Louisiana to seek employment opportunities, and soon her father opened his own business. Saeed’s mother was a physician in Yemen but chose to devote her time to supporting her children as they adjusted to their new way of life.

Saeed is a part of first-generation Yemenis women attending college in the U.S. Her parents support her decision to pursue education and career goals. Initially, life wasn’t so simple in Louisiana because learning to adapt came with its own set of challenges, particularly navigating through school and college preparation. “When we were in high school, we did not know what to do,” explains Saeed. The ACT test was unfamiliar to her. She didn’t know ACT preparation classes were available to help students. She didn’t realize counselors were available to advise her with high school classes and college prep.

The challenges from the language barrier caused Saeed to question whether she was a viable candidate for college. Saeed and her sister chose to return to Yemen to finish high school. Socially, Saeed would have the friends she desired in the states; however, her Yemenis friends all longed for the education she had access to in the U.S. “They all wanted to go to college. They wished they could go out of the country, like, it was their dream. I did not value this. I wanted to go to college in Yemen because I wanted friends. But when I went there, they didn’t care about friends a lot. They cared about education, explains Saeed. Education is everything there.” Saeed recalls how hard she saw her friends work academically. “As I finished high school in Yemen, I reflected on that if you got to go to college out of the country, you were the luckiest person in the world, especially America- no one could come here. You could get scholarships to Germany and Asia; but like, America, it’s really hard,” says Saeed.

When Saeed and her sister returned to Louisiana, they had to complete high school here. So, they enrolled in Neville High School. The success she met there and the care of her instructors at Neville birthed the college dream in Saeed. “Ms. Kathy, the ESL instructor, told us about the ACT prep course. I told her I wasn’t going to get accepted to any school, and she told me about Louisiana Delta Community College,” recalls Saeed. “The reason that motivated me to come was that my parents really wanted me to go to college, and I’m the oldest, so I figured I would just try. I came to get advised, and my parents came with me. They were so happy. They wanted to help me. Dr. Scott advised me and told me what I needed to take. I’m so glad I came here.”

After taking Frank Boone’s class, she fell in love with the sciences. Saeed graduated this semester and plans to take the pre-med track at ULM and afterward take the DAT admission test and head to dental school. She intends to remain in the states and practice. “Whenever I feel like I want to maybe switch to dental hygiene or instructor track, my mom encourages me to push through and complete the program. She reminds me that I’m smart and that I can do this. When I graduated, it felt like we did it, not just me,” says a smiling Saeed.

Saeed was accepted into the Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP). SHPEP aims to strengthen the academic proficiency and career development of students underrepresented in the health professions and prepare them for a successful application and matriculation to health professions schools. Saeed applied and was accepted. “They prepare you for the DAT exam, so you’ll take classes like Organic Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology, and Physics, plus you’ll have clinical work,” says Saeed. “It was a dream for me to get accepted.”

Saeed was also the first peer tutor in LDCC’s tutoring service and said her supervisor, Amelia Brister, director of library and learning resources was a great boss. Says Brister, “Mariam was not only a hard worker and kind but went out of her way to ensure that students got the extra support needed. She recorded her on-line tutor lessons and sent the recordings and pictures of her notes to students to further assist them. I believe Mariam is one of the reasons the peer tutoring services have been such a success in such a short time. I am proud of how she conducted herself with professionalism and compassion when interacting with fellow students.” LDCC wishes Mariam Saeed and all the graduates the very best!

SURPRISE DAD WITH SOMETHING DIFFERENT THIS Father’s Day with a gift from The Medical Spa. We have three special offerings to choose from. Consider choosing one or all for the special guys in your life.

Men can benefit from a regular skincare routine. Not only does a healthy routine keep them looking their best but can provide valuable protection when using appropriate ingredients. To keep it simple, we recommend a cleanser, an antioxidant, and a broad-spectrum SPF. This month when you purchase a Skinceuticals Antioxidant, you will also receive a free sport SPF. The combo of antioxidant and SPF provide the ultimate pairing to protect against UV rays and free radicals from sun exposure.

If you have a gentleman that enjoys pampering, we have a facial bundle available – purchase a Geneo hydrate or charcoal facial and SPF for $160 ($215 value). The Geneo charcoal facial is excellent for removing dirt, impurities, and balance oily skin. The Geneo hydrate refreshes and revives dry and dull skin, leaving it hydrated and replenished.

Lastly, but certainly not least, purchase laser sessions for Dad. Shaving can be a hassle. Does your man have excess unwanted hair or experience frequent ingrown hairs or razor burn? Treatments with the Splendor X laser can lessen those unwanted effects, make shaving easier, and greatly reduce hair growth! This laser offers customizable laser hair removal treatments for all skin tones. Splendor X offers BLEND technology by utilizing two wavelengths, Alexandrite 755 and ND-Yag 1064. The proportion of wavelengths used depends on skin type, hair color and texture, allowing for a safer and more effective treatment. By utilizing the dual wavelengths simultaneously, and a dual cooling system, the Splendor X offers quick, effective, and comfortable treatments for hair removal. Purchase three laser hair removals for $300; that is only $100 per session (excludes full body)! tightening, but prevention and maintenance are just as important. If using corrective treatments, it’s important to protect your investment. Using quality products at home to prevent and maintain your results is important.

We are excited to offer the newest ELASTiderm product by Obagi, the ELASTIderm Neck and Décolleté Concentrate. Part of the ELASTIderm collection, this concentrate contains the same patented Bi-Mineral Complex found in their eye cream and facial serum. The Bi-Mineral Complex supports skin elasticity by promoting the development of healthy elastin. In addition, the concentrate contains retinoid and arbutin, decreasing fine lines, wrinkles, and brightening uneven skin tone. What makes this product even better is the rollerbar application, encouraging microcirculation and dispersing of the serum evenly. This product helps to restore firmness, elasticity and even skin tone, while caring for the delicate skin of the neck and décolleté. We are certain you will love this product!

As part of the new product release this month, we are pairing our popular radiofrequency neck treatment with the Neck and Décolleté Concentrate – three RF treatments and ELASTIderm Neck and Décolleté for only $400 ($925 value).

Be sure to come by The Medical Spa this month to take advantage of our specials, events, and to find out more about the medical grade skincare products, and treatments offered here. 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 St. Francis Medical Center. Also, be certain to follow us on St. Francis Medical Center Facebook page and Instagram so you can be up to date on all the new and exciting things happening here at The Medical Spa.

The neck and décolleté are areas often neglected in our daily skincare routine. Left unsupported, stressors like tech neck and sun exposure break down elastin, resulting in signs of aging skin including horizontal lines, sagging, crepiness, discoloration and uneven skin tone. There are corrective treatments such as laser or skin

ALONG WITH PROVIDING THE TWIN CITIES WITH one of the most distinct home decor assortments, Walsworth & Company has recently renovated their showroom floor and created a fabulous space with a brand new look. The re-imagined space incorporates original architectural elements such as exposed beams and original hardwood elements. Please join us in celebrating Bubbles and Bites on Thursday, June 2nd 4:00 - 7:00 pm. There will be a ribbon cutting, champagne drinks topped with fresh spun cotton candy, small bites, live music by Josh Madden and a drawing for a $2500 gift certificate. You don’t want to miss out! Some inspired settings by Lisa Dixon, Kelly Taylor and Taylor Bennett are on hand in the showroom as well.

If you’re looking to update your home with seasonal décor, are in search of the perfect accent chair, or need a gift, Walsworth & Company is the destination. With a beautiful designed storefront on Antique Alley in West Monroe Louisiana, anyone looking for the perfect piece to compliment their home’s style is sure to find exactly what they need at Walsworth.

Local interior design and furniture shop, Walsworth & Company has been a downtown staple since opening its doors in 2014. Featuring a premier decorator showroom, Walsworth & Company offers selections from furniture, bedding, and lighting, with fully customizable and unique pieces from The MT Company, Uttermost / Revelation, Wesley Allen, McKinley Leather Furniture, Riverside and Universal Furniture allowing you to commission pieces that reflect your unique style and specifications.

Their walls are adorned with curated works of art, intricately designed mirrors, and unique wall hangings all complemented by plush sofas, coffee tables, dining and bedroom furniture. In addition to their vast selection of furniture finds, Walsworth & Company has a robust collection of accent pieces fit for any space; from area rugs, throw pillows to vases and coffee table accessories. With such a vast selection, it’s no surprise that Walsworth & Company is the decorator destination for the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. Walsworth & Company also offers choices to find the perfect unique gift for nearly any occasion. They carry candles from Nest, Nouvelle Candle Company, Capri Blue, and Orleans. Other gift ideas include: Jewelry from designers Ronaldo and Mariana, as well as pajama sets from PJ Harlow and Barefoot Dreams.

Be sure to check out Down the Aisle, the premiere wedding registry of Northeast Louisiana. Down the Aisle is a transformed space, boasting more than 1,400 square feet devoted to “must-haves” for the modern bride. Down the Aisle exudes a romantic vibe and classic elegance, continuing in true Walsworth and Co. fashion. With wedding season upon us, it is the perfect time to visit Walsworth & Company and explore their bridal registry space. Building from a vision of providing local brides with a premier wedding registry destination, the team at Walsworth & Company has devoted more than 1,400 square feet of showroom to their registry area.

Unlike the online registries, brides have grown accustomed to, the experts at Walsworth & Company help take the guesswork out of registering and are prepared to guide registrants through the entire registry process providing a checklist along the way. Helping to ensure all of your registry needs are met and your service is truly personalized. Providing brides with pieces from Zodax, Beatriz Ball, Abigails, Emile Henry, and Nora Fleming these selections are truly unparalleled.

As a special gift to their brides, Walsworth & Company will be gifting each bride a gift certificate valued at 10% of the total of their registry to be used throughout the store; no more unused credits or gift cards. Another benefit to registering at Walsworth & Company, no more duplicate gifts! You can make exchanges for other items throughout the store such as rugs, pillows, art, furniture; the list goes on and on.

Once you’ve completed your registry, don’t forget to take advantage of their vast collection of gift items for your hostess and bridal party gifts. Housing home fragrance brands such as Archipelago, Nest, Capri Blue, Nouvelle, as well as Orleans, let Walsworth & Company be your gift headquarters. When you need to treat yourself, select something luxurious from their expansive Lollia or Spongelle collection.

When the wedding is over, Walsworth & Company will continue to be your go-to for all things home decor, from lighting to bedding and seasonal pieces; Walsworth & Company are always ready to help transform your house into a home.

Stop in today to see the newest and most elegant bridal registry to hit the twin cities! Walsworth & Company, your home decor, gift, and now bridal registry headquarters.

Located at 311 Trenton Street on Antique Alley in downtown West Monroe. Open Monday - Saturday 10 AM- 5:30 PM.

HIGH WATER BASS FISHING MADE SIMPLE article by KENNY COVINGTON

Here in Louisiana, especially in our part of the state, it is not uncommon for our rivers and lakes to be higher than normal this time of year. Often, due to our springtime rains, the Ouachita River is well above pool stage and our areas lakes can be a few feet high as well. This gives angler’s a new twist to the question we all like to ask: “Where did the fish go?” In this month’s BayouLife “Fishing with Kenny” article, let’s see if we can answer the question.

According to a lot of fishing publications, when the water rises, no matter if it is a lake or river, the fish move to the bank. This has been a staple for as long as I can remember but through my experience, I am not sure I totally believe it to be true. I do believe some fish will move shallow, but a lot of fish seem to prefer to move vertically on cover than they do horizontally to the bank.

A good example is if you are fishing an oxbow with an abundance of cypress trees. If the fish were positioned on the trees before the water rises, why would they move to another tree just because of an extra two foot of water? I won a tournament on Lake Providence a few years ago targeting trees that, under normal water levels, had water on them. The fish didn’t move to the banks, they stayed in stabilized areas that weren’t influenced by rising or falling water.

I have found over the years a lot of the bass movements in high water scenarios depends largely on the type of fishery. On a lake like Bayou Bartholomew, with its high banks, as the water rises, the fish often move to the bank and, as the water begins to fall, will quickly move out. Horizontal cover such as logs, and laydowns are extremely productive due to the fish ability to remain in and around cover without having to move very far.

The Ouachita River is the model of complexity that comes with fishing high water. When the river is on a rise, finding an area where you can reach the bank is important. However, if an angler can locate a stopping point or a type of structure the fish can use as a migration route, such as a flooded roadbed or pipeline, or maybe even an area that has slow current pulling across, it’s quite possible to load the boat in a hurry.

Here are a few rules I have when fishing high water, while not set in stone, I try to always remember. First, from April through October, if the water is high, to find fish and to catch fish, I throw a topwater lure. Second, if I am fishing cypress trees, and there is no current around them, the fish will suspend around the trees instead of relating to the bottom. Three, any kind of a floating log or laydown tree has potential to hold a fish. And last, the fish will usually be bunched up in small areas so patience while trying to locate them is very important.

My choice of lures when fishing high water is as basic as an angler can get. I have a lot of confidence in these lures and have always been my favorites.

A topwater has always been my first choice and I have had as many as six rods rigged with different styles when I am practicing for a tournament. My first choice is either a Devil’s Horse or a Crazy Shad, both are effective target lures for brush lines or isolated trees. My second choice is a Spook which is a great way to cover water and catch a bigger size fish. I always have a buzzbait tied on but for whatever reason, I have better luck on the smaller ¼ or 1/8 versions. On occasion, especially in thicker cover, a frog can be the best lure in your boat.

When I am not throwing a topwater lure, I am pitching or flipping a Senko style of soft plastic. I will rig them two different ways: one will be rigged Texas style with a pegged 1/8th ounce tungsten sinker for fish that are deeper in the cover, and one will be rigged Texas style, weightless for fish that are suspended and won’t commit to the topwater lure.

Well, it looks like we have run out of time and space for another month, but I hope we were able to share with you some information that will make your next high water fishing trip more productive. Be careful on the water and most importantly, catch one for me! See you next month!

Max Porter Provisions, a men’s mercantile offering everything for apothecary to apparel, general store items to unique gift ideas, is located at 206 Trenton Street in West Monroe. Parters Laurie Cochran and Cassie Livingston had a vision to open a store in the old Mojoware store that would appeal to men looking to shop for themselves or women looking for unique gift items for the men in their lives. Vintage family memorabilia and antique furntiure sets the stage for Max Porter. When asked about the name of the store, Livingston said, “The store is named for my father-in-law, Max Livingston, who we lost to leukemia in 2011. It’s a tribute to our family roots – acknowledging the hard-working, veteran who devoted his life to family and country.

Among the brands that Max Porter Provisions carries is Paige jeans, a premium denim company that manufacturers all of their clothing in America. The Ampal Creative is another diverse line of socks, beanies and hats that are exclusively made in the USA. Shoppers can find a range of sauces and rubs from distributers like Hoff & Pepper, BBQ Rubdown, Strongarm Barbecue, along with drink mixes from awardwinning El Guapo Bitters. “The store definitely had ‘every man’ in mind when we were purchasing products,” says Cochran. “Whether you describe your style as western, modern, rustic, old-school, metro... our store has something for you.”

A favorite of the owners are the candles from Manready Mercantile. “Manready was really the inspiration behind the store. A friend put it on our radar, and the next time we visited Houston we really fell in love with the products. My husband loves the room sprays and candles – these were the first orders that we placed for Max Porter,” says Livingston. There are also candles and fragrances from Guy Fox, an under-the-radar company that offers affordable and unique colognes that are warm and full of zest.

Looking for a new razor? Supply offers an injector-style blade cartridge which allows you to reload the razor with ultra-sharp stubble-slicers, without ever touching a blade with your hands. Pair it along with Educated Beards delightful beard-grooming kit to keep your facial hair in place. Both of the companies, along with Duke Cannon are favorites of Livingston and Cochran’s husbands.

While Max Porter Provisions originally only intended to carry a few clothing brands, the owners have expanded their apparel lines to include items from Duck Camp, Flag & Anthem, Howler Bros, and Criquet. “We have clothing for everyone – pearl snap Western-inspired shirts, fishing shirts and light-weight shorts from Duck Camp, great looking golf polos from Criquet and favorites from Austin-based company, Howler Bros. We also carry boxers from Richer Poorer, socks from Ampal Creative, and fun hats from Sendero Provisions. Our husbands definitely weighed in when we were ordering clothing, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the unique apparel that we have.”

Leather goods is among one of the largest selections of gift items in the store. There are some beautiful, hand-crafted leather goods like wallets, belts, dog collars and leashes, bags, coasters, trays and more. “The Atticus duffle from Will Leather Company is my favorite item in the store,” says Cochran. “With plenty of pockets for organization and a dedicated shoe compartment, its roomy interior will hold all your essentials and more. It’s the right size for an overhead compartment and leather strap make going through the airport a breeze.” Even though the leather bags are a must-have, Max Porter also has a vintage camo print bag line from another local manufacturer that has been one of our best-sellers.

Along with drink mixers, Max Porter has several items to meet your barware needs – beautiful crystal rocks glasses, unique beer mugs and decanters, along with essentials like whiskey roks, perfect for the craft cocktail connoisseur.

Whether you are looking for a birthday or gradutation gift, something special for Father’s Day, or just need retail therapy, make sure to stop in and visit Max Porter Provisions. “We’ve had such great response from our community. We genuinely found a need for a store like this, and feel that we will continue to evolve to become a shopping destination for Northeast Louisiana.” says Livingston. “If you haven’t had the chance to stop by and walk through, carve out the time to check us out. If nothing more, come in and have a great chat with our manager, Bradley Castle. He has a wealth of product knowledge and experience and is super entertaining.”

Max Porter Provisions is located at 206 Trenton Street in West Monroe. The phone number is 318.737.7742 and you can find them on Facebook and Instagram. Store hours are Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm.

As if planning a wedding during Covid wasn’t stressful enough, these nuptials included a category five hurricane Ida blowing through the city just two weeks before the event in

New Orleans. But if there’s a city and its people that can come together to throw a perfect party despite all obstacles, it’s The

Big Easy. On September 25th, 2021, Ellison

Currie Jackson married Dr. Mohamed-

Aly Reda Bakeer under the beautiful trees in the garden at the scenic Elms Mansion on St. Charles Avenue. The couple was inspired to have a classic, elegant, old

New Orleans vibe and this venue was the perfect canvas. Dr. Jazz and the New

Orleans Wedding Sounds played La Vie en Rose as the wedding party came down the aisle, and Claire de Lune for the bride and her father. Ellison is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Tom Jackson Jr. She is the granddaughter of Karen Gibbons, John Gibbons and the late Dr. Jack Tom Jackson and the late Kaydell Currie Jackson all of Monroe. Tomy is the son of Dr.’s Reda and Mona Bakeer of New Orleans, grandson of the late Dr. Mohamed-Aly Bakeer and the late Dr. Aziza Hassan, and the late Mr. Yousef Kamal Ahmed and Bothaina Afifi of Cairo, Egypt.

Robert Sanders, the uncle of the bride, performed the ceremony and elicited many laughs, tears and cheers from the entire audience. The bride wore a Justin Alexander ball gown from Bliss Bridal and

BayouLife’s very own Meka Reliford was responsible for the glam looks of the bride and her family. Ellie was joined by her Maid of Honor Ashley Rayborn, and bridesmaids Kathryn Jones, Kalena Jackson, Kaki Dixon, Dina Bakeer, Claire Smith, Anna Hudson and Rachel Spiegel. The groom was accompanied by his best man Roshan Koneru, and groomsmen Evan Yost, Rami Hassan, Dr. Michael Joannides, John Thomas Jackson and Dr. Randal Cornateanu.

Ellie and Tomy’s first dance was to Frank Sinatra’s As Time Goes By, following the classic crooners theme of the curated set list. After the couple cut their Gambino’s Bakery cake, guests joined them on the dance floor for the rest of the night until their grand exit to a classic Second Line.

The florals throughout the wedding were designed by Patti Wilhite and all of the details executed by Clinton Downing and aunt of the bride Karen Brewton. The Elms Mansion’s gorgeous courtyard was the perfect backdrop for the guests while they were serenaded by Dr. Jazz and his band. Hunter Leone from Three Nails Photography set up the flawless lighting to capture the night. The Elm’s creative culinary team provided a night full of classic New Orleans fare to all the guests as they enjoyed the perfect evening.

The couple has made their home here in Monroe, La where Dr. Bakeer is a new partner in the Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana with Dr.’s Sartor, Liles and Smith. He specializes in general surgery and bariatrics. Ellie is a sales representative for Intuitive Surgical, where she trains surgeons and hospital staff on the daVinci surgical robot in NELA and MS. They will be welcoming a baby girl in October.

JUDGE DANNY ELLENDER SPOKE TO A PACKED HOUSE as he kicked off his campaign for the Court of Appeal at the home of Jennifer and Tap Parker. The beautiful flowers were arranged by Traci Canterbury and Stephanie Smith. Thurman’s Food Factory laid out a feast of their finest and Choice Brands and Marsala Beverage provided the beverages.

In his fourteen years as a District Court Judge, Danny Ellender has established a reputation as a hard worker who is always well prepared for cases that come before him. He treats everyone with respect and renders decisions in a fair, impartial and timely manner based on the rule of law. These traits, combined with Judge Ellender’s experience on the bench, will be an asset to the Second Circuit Court of Appeal.

Lifelong Republicans, Danny and Amy were married August 10, 1991. They have six children: Erin, 29, husband Taylor; Maggie, 27; Daniel, 25; John, 23; Will, 19; Ann Marie, 17; and one grandchild, William.

They are members of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bastrop. Danny has been active in ACTS retreats as a team member and codirector.

• Bachelor of Arts; Speech Communication, Louisiana State

University, 1986 • Juris Doctorate; Louisiana State University Law School, 1991 • Second Circuit Court of Appeal; Staff Attorney, 1991-1992 • Second Circuit Court of Appeal; Law Clerk for Judge Jeffery Victory, 1992-1993 • Hearing Officer; Fourth Judicial District Court, 1997-1998 • Assistant District Attorney; Fourth Judicial District Court, 2002-2008 • Ellender Law Firm; General Civil Practice, 1993-2008 • District Judge; Fourth Judicial District Court, 2009-present • Chief Judge; Fourth Judicial District Court, 2019-2020

• Leadership Ouachita, 1995 • LSU Ag-Business Leadership Program, 1996-1997 • Village of Mer Rouge Alderman, 1997-2008 • Louisiana Family Forum; Board of Directors, 1999-2003 • Northeast Louisiana Red Cross; Board of Directors, 2005-2016 • St. Frederick High School; Board of Directors, 2005-2008 • Fourth Judicial District Bar Association, 1993-present; President 2004-2005 • Louisiana Judicial Leadership Institute, 2011 • Louisiana District Judges Association; Executive Committee, 2014-present • Judicial Council of the Louisiana Supreme Court, 2017-present • Louisiana Supreme Court Committee on Judicial Ethics, 2020-present • Louisiana Judicial College Board of Governors, 2021-present • Continuing Education Instructor: Civil and Criminal Law, Ethics and Professionalism

Danny earned his J.D. from the Louisiana State University Law Center in 1991 and he and his wife, Amy, established the Ellender Law Firm in 1993. In July of 2008, Danny was elected to a newly-created judgeship and took office the following January. He was re-elected in 2014 and in 2020.

The Second Circuit Court of Appeal is located in Shreveport and is one of five circuit courts of appeal in Louisiana. The court consists of nine judges who are elected from three districts in the 20 northernmost parishes of Louisiana. Our district includes Franklin, Richland and part of Morehouse, Ouachita and West Carroll Parishes. Danny’s record and experience will be a benefit to our district.

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Danny Ellender.

Joanna Claire Franklin and Randall Tyler Weed exchanged their vows surrounded by family and friends on March 26, 2022, at White Oak Venue in Ruston,

Louisiana. Brother Alan Miller of Alto Baptist Church officiated the ceremony. Joanna is the daughter of Carole Emfinger Franklin of

Gilbert, Louisiana and Roy Gill Franklin of Rayville, Louisiana.

She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Bettie J. Franklin and the late Mr. George B. Franklin Jr. of Rayville, and Mrs. Annabelle

Emfinger and the late Elmer Emfinger of Gilbert, Louisiana.

Tyler is the son of Ms. Sonja Renee Garner of Baskin, Louisiana and Mr. Randall Keith Weed of Mangham, Louisiana. He is the grandson of the late Mrs. Kathleen Weed and Mr. Purvis Weed of Hebert, Louisiana and the late Mrs. Dean Garner and Mr. O.L.

Garner of Baskin. On the evening of the rehearsal, the groom’s family hosted a seated dinner at White Oak catered by Tyler’s sister and her husband, Ray and Mariah Mejias with Raging Bull Barbeque.

The meal consisted of phenomenally smoked brisket and pork, potatoes au gratin, green beans, homemade boudin balls and tamales. For dessert, each member of the family made a special homemade pie from family recipes passed down from generations.

Tanya Paul and her staff at Everything Artsy Events created a dreamy ceremony and reception with intricately designed and decorated floral arrangements containing white roses, hydrangeas, and snapdragons paired with a variety of greenery. The bride’s cake, created by Mrs. Tuleta Sasser of Rayville, Louisiana was eloquently accented with the same floral scape. The groom’s yellow and chocolate cake topped with strawberries was designed and created by Mrs. Deanie Collier of Baskin, Louisiana. The bride and the bridal party’s hair was styled by Jamie McCarty from the Beauty Bar in Sterlington and makeup was done by artist, Brittany Dye. The entire day ran smoothly and stress-free for the bride, family and vendors with coordinating performed by Adrienne Steele with Sage Events and Design.

After the ceremony, the reception began with dinner catered by Mrs. Linda Peevy and the L.L. Catering staff serving main courses featuring beef tenderloin, chicken bow tie pasta, shrimp & grits and jambalaya. Other stations included fresh boiled shrimp along with au gratin and sweet potato casserole, green beans, roasted asparagus, plus a delicious spread of fruits, cheeses and dips. The Wonderfuls Band of Dallas, Texas got the party started and kept the wedding party and guests dancing the night away on the back terrace after sunset. During the reception, the bride along with her bridesmaids dressed in their matching cowgirl hats to perform a line dance that they had learned on her bachelorette trip in Nashville, Tennessee. Soon before the night ended, Tyler and Joanna’s fur baby Jax made a grand entrance to join in on the celebration! The marquee letters were provided by All Things Festive, LLC in Shreveport.

photography by Unveiled Radiance

Presented by her father, the bride chose an elegant gown from Elle James Bridal in Ridgeland, Mississippi. The gown featured an overskirt that was custom designed and created from scratch by Mrs. Beth at the Fashion Post adjacent to Elle James. The fitted gown and skirt material were designed by Anne Barge based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Lauren Sistrunk Burkett of Converse, Louisiana served as Maid of Honor. Bridesmaids were college friends, roommates and Kappa Delta Sorority sisters, Kiersten Robertson Daniel, Madison Foster Futrell, Megan Alise Sistrunk, Callie Teekell Labeff, Anna Katherine Ginn, Kaitlyn Grice Arnold, and lifelong friend Lauchlyn Emfinger Stockstill.

Jeffery Todd Weed, Jr., cousin of the groom, served as his Best Man. Groomsmen were lifelong and college friends, Joshua Ralph Duncan, Jacob Randall Monnin, Jonathon Taylor Hoggatt, William Leonard Dear, George Kameron Harper, Taylor Maxwell Hipp, and Cody Michael Turner.

Through their eight years together, Joanna and Tyler shared much of their relationship together at the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Joanna is a graduate of Riverfield Academy in Rayville and obtained her bachelor’s degree in marketing and master’s in business administration at ULM. She is employed by CoJo Mfg. LLC, a company her dad started in 2013, and also works alongside her family at George B. Franklin and Sons, Inc. in Holly Ridge, Louisiana. Tyler is a graduate of Mangham High School and received his bachelor’s degree in agribusiness at ULM, and master’s degree in business administration from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He is currently employed by Nutrien Ag Solutions in Crowville, Lousiana. Following their honeymoon in St. Lucia, the two settled down in Rayville, Louisiana. The day would not have been complete without amazing work of Angela Groce Shoemaker with Unveiled Radiance Photography. She captured every detail, and her fun personality made every moment special. Along with Angela, Taylor Fairbanks with Fairfilm created a video for the couple to remember and enjoy for a lifetime.