Louisiana senators and representatives were sworn in Jan. 11 at the Capitol in Baton Rouge, as was Louisiana’s new governor and other statewide elected officials. There was a 19-cannon salute, prayers and music. The Centenary College Choir was among preinaugural performers.

Independence Bowl: The Independence Bowl Foundation hosted the Camping World Independence Bowl game Dec. 26 at Independence Stadium. It was the 40th anniversary of the bowl game. Virginia Tech played against the University of Tulsa, with Virginia Tech winning 55 to 52. The Camping World Independence Bowl selected Berlin Airlift Veterans as the recipient of the 2015 Omar N. Bradley “Spirit of Independence Award.” 

WK Party: Willis-Knighton hosted its annual Doctors Christmas Party on Dec. 8 at the WK Eye Institute. This year’s party featured elaborate decorations made by hospital staff members. The extensive buffet of delicious food, catered by in-house staff members, featured sushi, Italian, Chinese and sweet treats for dessert.

Markers Fair: The Texas Avenue Makers Fair was hosted Nov. 14 on Texas Avenue in downtown Shreveport. Dozens and dozens of vendors were on site with a wide range of handmade items from artwork to clothes to dog treats. There was also a food truck food court for event-goers to enjoy.

1920s Gala: Chimp Haven celebrated 20 years of providing and promoting the best care of sanctuary for chimpanzees and inspiring action for the species worldwide. To celebrate this major anniversary, Chimp Haven hosted a 1920s themed gala Nov. 7 at Sam’s Town Hotel and Casino. The night featured a delicious dinner, collection of unique auction items and dancing to the sounds of New Orleans jazz band, Meschiya Lake & The Little Big Horns.

Glitz and Grits: The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum hosted its fundraiser Glitz and Grits to the theme of “Louisiana Saturday Night” on Sept. 26. Guests were entertained by the Bayou Boys and Raku Potter Bruce Odell, who showed guests his unique artwork. Buddy Caldwell also performed as Elvis at the event. Silver Star catered the event, providing food stations throughout the museum.

Siblings Edward Nader Jr. and Margaret Nader Love celebrated their 32nd year of business together this past February. The gallery was established in 1969 and was purchased by the siblings in 1983.

Breakfast With Senator: The Bossier Chamber held a breakfast meet and greet Sept. 1 with U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy. This event was part of the chamber’s annual public policy series and served as an opportunity for the business community to learn about his policy priorities for Northwest Louisiana and what’s trending in D.C. Series sponsors include Valveworks USA, Citizens National Bank and Roberts and Murphy, Inc.