Spring makes us want to get outside, plant new flowers, take long walks and visit with our neighbors along the way. Spring calls kids to get outside to run and play with the freedom from winter coats or jackets. Life just feels more relaxing in spring, and our steps are a little lighter as we take in the fresh smell of the spring air.

Although it seems spring began mid- January, now is the time we are all thinking about spring cleaning. I’ve put together some spring cleaning staples, along with a few energy efficiency tips to bolster your home’s cleanliness this year. Hopefully, by using a few of the cost-saving measures, you’ll be saving energy and money in no time!.

Although sugar and spice and everything nice might be true for little girls, it is not true for sugar in your diet. Sugar is naturally occurring in foods such as fruit and milk, and while these foods are part of a balanced diet, added sugars found in many foods are a concern to many health experts.

Smith said he is honored to be the guest speaker at Authors in April on April 29 at Margaritaville Casino at noon. The event benefits the Pioneer Heritage Center. Smith will talk about his new book and research surrounding art forgery. He said he looks for gaps in the history network for his books.

Over the last few years, a classic cocktail that signifies a James Bond 007-style sophistication and elegance has been given a multicolored flavorful Katy Perrystyle recipe lift. From savory to sweet, these creations are so varied the only similarity to the original may be the use of vodka and the traditional martini-style glass.

One such muse is local artist Susan Duke, who has inspired many paintings (done by her late husband George H. Gibbens III, a truly gifted artist) and also inspired many songs (written by her late husband Patrick Posey, a talented musician and songwriter).

Longtime shoppers at Lewis’ Gifts on Youree Drive in Shreveport are doing a double take as they walk through the doors into a showroom that has been completely transformed. A grand opening of the new Lewis’ will be held on Saturday, May 6, an all-day event with champagne and sweets from Biscottis café and fabulous door prizes.

“When my daughter Lauren announced in 2009 that she was eating a vegetarian diet,” Gieseke said, “I had to do due diligence as a mother to make sure she was maintaining a diet that would not compromise her health. I started researching to see that she was still getting adequate protein, calcium and iron.

When a local couple decided to spend more time in their North Shreveport home, they felt that it needed a significant change. At their Florida property, living was more contemporary and stream-lined, and they decided it was an easier way to live.

318.865.0175 • 4832 Line Avenue • Shreveport, LA • In Uptown Shopping Center.

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1. off the shoulder or cold shoulder tops.

Modeled by Katy Huggs.

| Black & White 2 in 1 dress with jacket! It’s all about the Dots this spring!.

At Happily Ever After, helping brides bring their wedding day visions into fruition is their passion. Store owners Dionne O’Neil and Terri Zacha bring a vast range of bridal fashions to their quaint Line Avenue boutique.

Opening reception from 2-4 p.m., April 15. Bossier Arts Council, 630 Barksdale Blvd., Bossier City. Visit www.bossierarts.org or call 741-8310. APRIL 1-MAY 31: KIT GILBERT & ROBERT FOGEL, exhibits from both artists on display. Opening reception from 2-4 p.m., April 15.

| Lanya Bernard.

The Randle T. Moore Center was lit up for a night of fashion and fun as the Krewe of Highland brought their Game of Throws Bal to the elegant, historic mansion on Feb. 24. While amazing costumes were the talk of the evening, the gorgeous gowns were the talk of the town!.

| Alex Stinchcomb.

More than 1,200 people celebrated the Mighty Krewe of Centaur’s 26th Grand Bal, hosted at the Shreveport Convention Center.

The Krewe of Gemini celebrated Grand Bal XXVIII on Feb. 11 at the Shreveport Convention Center with a Salute America theme. Captain Mary Louise Stansell represented the Statue of Liberty. King Jack Murphy and Queen Karen Murphy represented 4 the Spirit of America.

The Mystick Krewe of Louisianans hosted the 69th Washington Mardi Gras Celebration at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C., Feb. 9-11. Thursday night’s party, Louisiana ALIVE!, featured foods and companies from all over Louisiana sharing Mardi Gras gifts of all kinds.

On March 4, the Bossier Arts Council hosted their annual martini-themed fund-raiser, Artini at 601 Spring St. in downtown Shreveport. More than a dozen local bars and restaurants were on hand serving custom martini cocktails in competition for the best libation of the evening.

On Feb. 25, the night before the Academy Awards, Robinson Film Center hosted their annual fund-raiser, The Robbys. Awards were given to the Best Arrival, Louie the Lightning bug from SWEPCO; Best Babe, Lisa Babin; and Best Coif, Raquel Robertson, among several other awards.