Copeland's Cheesecake Bistro opens

Copeland founder and owner Al Copeland and his son Al Jr. were in town for the by-invitation-only ribbon cutting and opening of Copeland’s Cheesecake Bistro, Louisiana Boardwalk, where the lights were low and a Dixieland band provided groovy sounds.

There was ribbon cutting, champagne, food galore and a cash bar, with such drinks as Sin City martinis — the choice of Susan Cox.

Headed by Bossier City Mayor Lo Walker and wife Adele Walker, it was a A-list crowd that popped in to welcome the owners.

And, to sample an array of goodies — from fork tender steak to the trademark cheesecake.

Most guests just went through the line that offered samples of everything or accepted shrimp, oysters and other goodies passed by white glove wait staff.

Helen Gibson-Nicholas, there with hubby Charles Nicholas, raved over the trout. "It was really different."

After the ribbon cutting, champagne was passed to the crowd.

State Reps. Billy Montgomery, Roy Burrell and Jane Smith worked spacious rooms.
So did Shreveport City Councilman Ron Webb and Councilwoman Joyce Bowman. Councilman Brian Wooley and wife Tika slipped in late, but found a handy booth to enjoy the food and to chat with passersby.
Bossier-Webster Dist. Judges Parker Self, Ford Stinson, Johnny Robinson and Jeff Cox were also seeing and being seen. So were their respective wives, Paula, Suzie, Beth and Susan.

LSUS Chancellor Vince Marsala and wife Carol had just jetted in from Vermont.

Shreveport Mayor Cedric Glover regretted, but Gwen Campbell was a good stand-in.

"We hope you will love it and come back and visit," said Al Copeland.

"We are thrilled they’ve opened the doors. This will be the hottest place in town," predicted Boardwalk Chief Ray Tromba.

There’s no doubt that it will be popular.

I can’t wait to return for a leisurely dinner amidt the dramatic giant columns rendered in a pattern of swirls, the stone floors and the comfy banquettes in deep earth tones.

It is as attractively decorated as the food is grand.