A mix of familiar staples and new favorites are heading to the 34th annual Taste of Shreveport-Bossier on Nov. 6 at the Bossier City Civic Center, benefiting Holy Angels, a residential community for individuals with disabilities. Artists and chefs throughout Shreveport-Bossier City will showcase their talents at the event.
“This is an example of the creative genius of our community,” Holy Angels CEO Laurie Boswell said. Nearly 30 local restaurants are participating, including “long-time, loyal” vendors such as Monjuni’s, Market 104, Wine Country and Silver Star Steakhouse. Vendors such as Crawdaddy’s Kitchen, Nothing Bundt Cakes and Bella Nonnas will make their Taste of Shreveport-Bossier debut.
“Although it’s a seasoned event, each year we have something new,” she said.
Boswell said the event will provide something for everyone, from the hearty fish fry of the Shreveport Firefighter’s Union to fine dining from East Ridge Country Club. Holy Angels’ partners, meaning businesses that collaborate with the nonprofit to produce products, will also be part of the event. Rhino Coffee will serve Holy Rhino, its Holy Angels brew, and Counter Culture will serve the Holy Angels cookies, cookies prepared by the Holy Angels residents.
Alcohol will be available, featuring craft brews from Great Raft Brewing and margaritas from Crawdaddy’s Kitchen.
In addition to food, art plays a role at the Taste and at Holy Angels. Local artists who volunteer with the Holy Angels residents will showcase their work. Jewelry designs from Mary Caroline Spano, artistic creations from Ivy and Paula Frierson and pottery from Holly Hennessy are part of the lineup.
“[Hennessy’s] designs speak to everyone. They’re cutting edge and trendy,” Boswell said, noting Hennessy creates patterns on her work using pressed, fresh ferns.
The Angel Artists, meaning the individuals with disabilities who live and work at Holy Angels producing art, will display their collections. They’ve also collaborated with local artists to produce pieces for the silent auction at the event. The Angel Auction will consist of 50 pieces, including artwork from the Angel Artists and regional artists. Along with the pieces, trips and gifts will be auctioned. “[The Angel Artists] have a creative experience that’s often untapped. They haven’t studied art; they just produce what comes out of their creative genius,” she said. A.J and the Two Tone Band and the Holy Angels Choir will perform, which Boswell said is the best part of the event.
“Just to see their talent, you can feel how these individuals with disabilities experience life. They appreciate what’s really important,” she said.
With 185 residents and 100-day program participants, all proceeds from the event will benefit these individuals at Holy Angels. Tickets are $50 a person and are available via Eventbrite.com and the Eventbrite app (search for Holy Angels).  
The Taste would not be possible without the Knights of Columbus, Boswell said. The Knights of Columbus, a male Catholic group dedicated to service over self, have been involved with the event since its inception. Other sponsors include International Paper, Citizens National Bank, Hope Contractors and more. Sponsorships are still available.
The Champions for Individuals with Disabilities, a group of young professionals who fundraise for Holy Angels, are assisting with the Taste.
“It crosses all generations,” Boswell said.