Fall Barbecue: Willis-Knighton Health System hosted its annual fall barbecue for its physicians and friends Oct. 9. The tented grounds at the Elrod’s Cedar Lodge on the shores of Cross Lake were invitingly decorated with fall leaves and rich color. Tables, buffets and even pirogues are laden with food of all sorts – not just barbecue – assuring guests of all appetites would be satisfied. The multiple shuttles kept a caravan of guests coming and going seamlessly throughout the festive evening.

Book signing: Toy Fair hosted a book launch and signing for Bill Joyce and Kenny Callicutt’s co-illustrated new picture book, “A Bean, A Stalk and A Boy Named Jack” on Oct. 4. The book tells the tale of a kingdom that has gone dry, so it is up to a smallish boy and a smallish pea to come up with a giant plan to find water and prove that size doesn’t prevent anyone from doing something big. The Academy Award winner and Shreveport native, Joyce, is well-known for being the cofounder of Moonbot Studios, and has authored more than 50 children’s books, including: “The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore,” “Santa Calls,” “Dinosaur Bob and his Adventures with the Family Lazardo,” “Rolie Polie Olie” and “The Leaf Men and the Brave Good Bugs.” Callicutt, a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, joined Moonbot Studios in 2012. “A Bean, A Stalk and A Boy Named Jack” is his picture book debut.

–Mary Ann Van Osdell

Luncheon: The Gingerbread House hosted their annual luncheon Oct. 8 at Sam’s Town Hotel and Casino in Shreveport. John Walsh, the well-known host of “America’s Most Wanted,” was the keynote speaker at the Partners in Prevention Luncheon Fundraiser. Proceeds from the lunch, which totaled more than $95,000, will benefit child abuse victims in our area.

–Mark Crawford

Zombie Walk: The Downtown Zombie Walk was a sight to see Oct. 18 at artspace. Guests enjoyed coming in costume to hear music and participate in contests, one being “brain-eating skills.” Prizes were awarded to the scariest zombie, best makeup, family of zombies and most convincing zombie. Later in the evening, a turkey leg eating contest was held and the movie “Beetlejuice” was shown.

–Mary Ann Van Osdell

Film Prize: The Louisiana Film Prize hosted its third annual film festival Oct. 9-12. Spilling out onto Texas Street, festival-goers could see the slates of 20 films at four locations: Robinson Film Center, Capri Theater, Central ARTSTATION and Bossier Arts Council headquarters in Bossier City. More than 100 short films were submitted and whittled down to 20. Those films were then voted on by the festival-goers and the winner was selected. “True Heroes” took the $50,000 top prize, while “Loveable,” “Based on Rosenthal,” “Snip,” “A Bird’s Nest” and “True Heroes” all won the Founders’ Circle Award. Best Actor awards were bestowed upon Chelsea Bryan of “Angel of Joy” and James Palmer of “Snip.”

–Mark Crawford

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