Breakfast: Judge Jeff Cox gave an update on the state of Bossier Courts at the Bossier Chamber’s Pancakes and Politics breakfast held Oct. 8 at the Hilton Garden Inn. Cox shared insight into how the Bossier Court system handles caseloads and how it affects the taxpayer’s interests. Bossier and Webster Parish Courts handle over 22,000 cases each year and the 26th Judicial Court saves taxpayer dollars through their successful drug court program.

Plantation: Jann and Stephen Logan hosted the Plantation Ball’s annual fall barbecue Oct. 11 at their homestead in Gilliam, introducing the 2016 presentees. It was a beautiful fall afternoon. Mike Hoogland introduced the 2016 board and the presentees were treated to a fun trivia game about area farms and agriculture.

–Mary Ann Van Osdell

Heart Walk: The Northwest Louisiana Heart Walk had an energetic feel Oct. 10 at Louisiana State University- Shreveport. Warmups were offered before the walk around the campus circumference began. Booths included learning cardiopulmonary resuscitation, pledging to reduce sodium and a young girl making heart-shaped beaded bracelets. Many participants filled out a tag that said, “I am walking because …” and wrote in a name. Along the walk path, signage depicted years with heartrelated medical milestones and medical tips on how to stay heart-healthy.

–Mary Ann Van Osdell

Book-signing: Bill Joyce signed copies of his latest book, “Jack Frost” on Oct. 24 at Toy Fair in Shreveport. Jack Frost is the story of one of Joyce’s most beloved and iconic characters. In the book, Jack finds the warmth he’s been yearning for by helping some children in great peril.

–Mary Ann Van Osdell

Black Dog: The Humane Society of Northwest Louisiana hosted the third annual Black Dog October fundraiser Oct. 24 at Marilynn’s Place in Shreveport. The event featured live music, auction and raffle items, tasty refreshments and a doggie costume contest.

–Mark Crawford

BREW: Downtown Shreveport Unlimited and Red River Revel hosted the seventh annual BREW Beer Festival on Oct. 17. This year’s event featured more than 100 beverage selections, which included beers from local breweries Flying Heart, Great Raft and Red River. A dozen local restaurants provided tasty snacks to enjoy while sampling beers. Money raised at BREW benefits Mudbug Madness and the Red River Revel.

–Mark Crawford

Agency Crawl: Local creative agencies opened their doors to over 70 students and professionals on to tour their space, see their work and learn about the variety of creative careers currently thriving in the Shreveport-Bossier City area at the American Advertising Federation Shreveport-Bossier’s first Agency Crawl on Sept. 25. During the event, Karissa Morgan, a graphic design student at Louisiana State University – Shreveport, was awarded the Jim Leslie Memorial Scholarship.

Grand Opening: One of Shreveport’s newest eateries Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar, hosted a VIP grand opening party Oct. 10. Guests were invited to sample menu items and tasty libations while surrounded with more than 60 televisions showing multiple sporting events. The restaurant is located 7031 Youree Drive in Shreveport.

–Mark Crawford

Anniversary Party: Great Raft Brewing hosted the Great Raft Ramble twoyear anniversary on Oct. 10 at their tasting room. With more than 20 different brews on tap, the party spilled out into the parking lot and also included live music. Several food trucks were on hand throughout the celebration serving delicious snack options.

–Mark Crawford