Falling leaves and cooler temperatures are soon to be in our forecast. Our moods lift as the heat and humidity dissipate, and we seem to recharge, gaining energy and enthusiasm with the refreshing change of season. We want this issue to reflect no less than that same kind of vitality. We have style, we have flair ... and, for substance, we shine the spotlight on a number of very exceptional women.
With the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce (GSCC), we are proud to present the 16 ATHENA award nominees in this issue. Some of these incredible women will be known to you, others you may be meeting for the first time, but no doubt, we will hear from all of them again as they are committed to their community and the organizations they represent.
These women are leaders and set examples for us all through their hard work and dedication to others. More than just professionals, they are compassionate homemakers, business women and volunteers who make up this diversified group.
Other impressive profiles in this edition: For a woman who powers through, meet Lauren LeBlanc of Sleek Physique. Coining the phrase “exertainment,” she combines entertainment with fitness and exercise and works to keep her clients both fit and motivated. Results-oriented, she is a beautiful example of what a well-balanced, healthy lifestyle can look like.
Super woman Arlena Acree founded her business, Career Adventures, in 1985, and it continues to be such a success today that it runs independently and she can focus on her job as one of the top go-to people for the city of Shreveport. Having served three mayors, her first job was as director of economic development for former mayor Keith Hightower. She then served as head of the local film industry under our previous mayor, Cedric Glover. She now wears both hats for current Mayor Ollie Tyler. She’s up to the challenge, as you will see.
Artist and fashion designer Melanie Scarlett turned hopelessness into opportunity when her life took a turn as she battled a medical condition that left her unable to drive for nine months, forcing her to give up her job. Worried about how to pay the bills, she found inspiration one day when fate took over and her mom and a stranger independently pressed her to work to design and sell clothing and accessories. The then-unknown woman placed an order for five hats like the one she was wearing, and she’s been creating ever since.
Now for some of the finer things: We visited a few of the most stylish stores around and chose some fab home accessories as well as a couple of pieces of fall-inspired decor for your consideration. Whether the business is blooming or just high on style, our merchants have something for everyone.
Nader’s Gallery has an overwhelming selection of home accessories (as well as art and furniture) and has a great gift selection as well. Vibrant color is in! Silver and pewter are also complements to any room, and we made sure to include such pieces from Chateau en Mae as well as Nader’s, where we picked a few pumpkins for seasonal decor.
Kyle Loyd of The Colony House of Flowers presented us with beautiful arrangements that will inspire you with bright colors reflecting the changing season in vibrant hues. Perfect for anywhere in the home, the flowers are breathtaking.
Revel in and enjoy this lovely time of year where the sultry South begins to cool, the leaves start to turn their brilliant shades, and pumpkin patches are in abundance. Take a stroll, visit a park or settle yourself on the porch and watch the world turn to all the glorious shades of the harvest. Carpe diem! Let tomorrow take care of itself. 
