Vol 1, No.7 / July 2, 2009

VOL. 1, NO. 7 / JULY 2, 2009

ALSO:

• Down with the Titanic: Local Family Honors Ancestor • A Visit to Ship to Shore • Carnival Glass: Is it Worth One Dollar or Thousands?

• The Sports Report on the 2009 HS Football Season

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JULY 2, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 7

GENERAL 826 Ford St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 PUBLISHER Phil de Albuquerque publisher@thejambalayanews.com

NEWS MANAGING EDITOR Lauren de Albuquerque lauren@thejambalayanews.com

EDITOR Lisa Yates lisa@thejambalayanews.com

CONTRIBUTORS Kay Andrews Leslie Berman Sara Blackwell Blane Bourgeois Kenneth Caruthers George Cline James Doyle Dan Ellender Kelli Fontenot Mike McHugh Mary Louise Ruehr Brandon Shoumaker ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANT Patricia Prudhomme GRAPHICS ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Darrell Buck darrell@thejambalayanews.com

BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kay Andrews BUSINESS INTERN Bryce Primeaux

contents COVER STORY 24

The Joys of the Down Under

REGULARS 6 7 12 14 17 20 22 34

The Dang Yankee The Boiling Pot Doyle’s Place The Zestful Life Tips from Tip What’s Cookin’ A Greener World The Sports Report

Cover Photo by Phil de Albuquerque On Cover: Denise Fasske, Lauren de Albuquerque, Irene Howse, Nadiya Howse and Geoff Howse.

July 2, 2009 • Volume 1 • Issue 7

5

24

FEATURES 5 18 27 30 31 46

American Airlines Returns to LC Bayou Biz – Ship to Shore Proper Care for Your Catch The Radical Ride His Ancestor Perished Aboard the Titanic LC’s first Sci-Fi Festival

ENTERTAINMENT 36 37 39 42 44 48 52 54

Funbolaya Killin’ Time Crossword Eclectic Company Red Hot Books Family Night at the Movies Society Spice Jambalaya Jam The Local Jam

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Clarification: The restaurant where Anne Dentler’s caricatures and paintings are hung is “Cajun Charlie’s,” not Cajun Café as mentioned in the June 4, article entitled: “Adventures of Booksmiths Tommie Townsley and Anne Dentler.”

The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by The Jambalaya News, LLC, 826 Ford Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone (337) 436-7800. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The Jambalaya News cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a selfaddressed envelope. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

Copyright 2009 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.

DISTRIBUTION: The Jambalaya News is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. The Jambalaya News may be distributed only by The Jambalaya News authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of The Jambalaya News take more than one copy of each issue from its racks.

Volume 1 • Issue 7

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30 JULY 2, 2009

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From the Managing Editor Only in America It’s summer. This time of year always brings back memories of my childhood. I grew up in a three-decker in East Boston, the Italian section of the city. For those of you who don’t know what a three-decker is, it’s a three-story house with a separate apartment on each floor. They’re very common in older neighborhoods in Northern cities.

We were living in the noisy city, with a parking lot for subway commuters behind the house. I grew up to the sounds of screeching trains and the often-deafening roar of jets from nearby Logan Airport. (If you think I’m exaggerating, the airport eventually paid for new windows for most of the homes in the area because they had all come loose from years of noise pollution.)

We lived on the top floor. Of course, heat rises, and with no air conditioning, you can imagine just how hot our apartment got in the summer. Fans were pretty useless; they just seemed to blow the hot air around.

One of my most vivid summer childhood memories is of me sitting in our kitchen late one afternoon. I’m around six years old. My mother is ironing a pretty pink and white cotton dress of hers. All the windows are open, the old blue rotating fan is whirring, and the sun is shining. The transistor radio on top of the refrigerator is on, and Jay and the Americans are singing “Only in America.”

Even to a six-year old’s mind, the lyrics are gloriously uplifting:

Bryce Primeaux

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JULY 2, 2009

Lauren de Albuquerque Only in America Can a guy from anywhere Go to sleep a pauper and wake up a millionaire Only in America Can a kid without a cent Get a break and maybe grow up to be President Only in America Land of opportunity, yeah Would a classy girl like you fall for a poor boy like me I remember listening to that song, and feeling as if I was suddenly transported from that hot little kitchen.

It hit me like a lightning bolt that I didn’t have to remain in East Boston for the rest of my life, like my mother had. Those jets rumbling in the distance were taking people to far-off places. There was a whole world out there, and I could be anything I wanted to be. From that moment on, I was different.

So, as we celebrate the Fourth of July, let’s be thankful for the opportunities this country has given us. Sure, it’s flawed, and I, for one, can be a very vocal critic— but that’s what a democracy is all about. I’m grateful for my freedom, and I’m grateful to be living in this amazing part of the United States with all you wonderful folks. And I’m grateful for a song that sent such a positive message to a little girl, so many years ago.

The Jambalaya News is thrilled to introduce Bryce Primeaux of Lake Charles, our summer business intern.

Bryce graduated from Barbe High School with a 4.0 GPA for four straight years and is a member of the Future Business Leaders of America, where he won first place in both divisions at the 2009 FBLA state district

– Lauren de Albuquerque

convention. He will be attending LSU in the fall in pursuit of a degree in engineering, but if we had our way, we’d never let him go! Bryce supports the entire staff in various capacities and is an invaluable assistant to the publisher. We believe that anyone who can keep Phil on track is a keeper! TJN

Volume 1 • Issue 7

By Brandon Shoumaker, Photo by Blane Bourgeois

The Eagle has landed, again.

American Eagle Airlines, the regional affiliate of American Airlines, recently began service to Lake Charles for the first time since November 2000.

The airline will operate two daily non-stop flights between Lake Charles Regional Airport and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.

Departures from Lake Charles are at 7:20 a.m. and 2:55 p.m. The Embraer ERJ-145 and ERJ-140 aircraft each seat 50 passengers.

Continental Airlines’ regional carrier, Continental Express, already operates from the airport and there are plans to bring in a third carrier in the future.

Local officials are optimistic and think the new American Eagle flights will be a boon for the local economy.

“We’re delighted to welcome American Eagle back to Southwest Louisiana,” Heath Allen, Executive Director of the Lake Charles Regional Airport, said in a press release. “This new service will provide a

Volume 1 • Issue 7

tremendous economic impact for our region and connect residents and business owners alike to cities throughout the nation and around the globe.”

At a celebratory reception held at L’Auberge du Lac Casino, American Eagle officials touted the benefits of its service for both business and industry sectors as well as the tourism sector.

“When I go home, I’m going back to market this area to the rest of the world,” said Brett Hooyerink, Manager of Marketing Programs for American Eagle. “You can get on a plane at Dallas-Fort Worth (Airport) and, 90 minutes later, be in this lazy river.

L’Auberge du Lac is doing a great job of marketing. It has all these (amenities) and, in an hour and a half, you can be here from Dallas.”

The maiden flight from Dallas also brought a celebrity guest in former Dallas Cowboys great Lee Roy Jordan.

Jordan said he hopes the new route benefits both Lake Charles and Dallas.

“It will encourage people in Dallas to get on a plane and take a 90-

minute flight to Lake Charles where they will get the best quality casino outside of Las Vegas,” Jordan said.

“That is really a selling point.

Hopefully it will be a two-way street.

There are a lot of tourism opportunities (in Dallas) besides the Cowboys.”

Kathy Cargile, American Eagle Sales Manager for the Southeastern Region, said that her company’s service will induce more businesses to locate in Southwest Louisiana.

“Opening this route is going to bring economic development because it’s going to bring businesses that are going to plant their roots in this area as well as bring tourists to the gaming resorts,” Cargile said. “As business grows, so will the air service and Lake Charles is a key area.”

American is expanding back into the Lake Charles market despite executives from several different airlines giving a bleak industry outlook at an investor conference last Thursday.

Weak demand for seats combined with rising fuel prices is beginning to pressure airline officials to either

raise rates, slash flight capacity or both in the upcoming months.

American Eagle pulled out of the Lake Charles market in the fall of 2000, citing a lack of profits from the Lake Charles to Dallas route. But Hooyerink said that higher oil prices and a strong local economy might work in Southwest Louisiana’s favor and keep American in Lake Charles for the long-term.

“The problem is there is no justifiable reason for oil prices to be that high,” Hooyerink said. “Right now, things are fine. If the price of oil pushes past $75, there might be problems for us, but that might mean this area may continue to do well.”

He thinks that high oil prices might actually be good for the Lake Charles area. “With local businesses and the oil and refining industry here, there’s a lot of traffic coming in. The economy in Southwest Louisiana is booming. People from all over are coming in.”

TJN

JULY 2, 2009

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Dang Yankee The

By Mike McHugh

Fear and Loathing in Houston My company has sent me on an assignment in Houston for the next several weeks. I’ve only been here a few days now, so I might be accused of jumping to conclusions. Still, I can’t help but feel like I’m not in the South anymore. Here among all of these monolithic office buildings, I’d swear that I was really in Philadelphia.

As I sit in five lanes of unmoving traffic on the Katy Freeway, the nationally syndicated talk show host is my only companion. The only thing that reminds me of where I really am is the number of pickup trucks that are sharing the experience.

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JULY 2, 2009

Oh, and there’s one other thing.

There’s that sticker on the bumper in front of me that reads, “This Car Protected by Smith and Wesson.”

Now, that’s something that’s sure to cure me of any spontaneous urge to commit road rage.

I first attempted to deal with the traffic situation by listening to the local news radio station. Here, they devote 50 minutes of every hour to the traffic report, with the message essentially being “You can’t get there from here.” Then I discovered the real solution was to use the toll roads.

Apparently, many Texans haven’t yet become comfortable with having to

pay to drive on a road, so they are much less busy. I, on the other hand, am pretty much used to it, having spent so much time driving on Yankee roads. In fact, I have developed this sort of reflex where every time I slow down, I want to throw a handful of change out the window.

If you look carefully, though, there are a few subtle clues to alert the astute observer that he really is in Texas and not Connecticut. Take the western wear superstores that dot the cityscape, for example. I’ve never actually shopped in one, but they seem to be kind of like a Sam’s Club for cowboy boots. I wonder if you can only buy them in bulk.

Still, the similarities to my old Yankee home seem to outweigh the differences. Take crime, for instance.

On separate occasions, two of my colleagues have found themselves victims of break-ins while visiting Houston.

Makes me feel like I’m back in East Baltimore again. How thoughtful of the locals to make me feel so at home.

Another example is the art that is displayed in public places. I once believed that a pile of old car parts taken from the junkyard and painted red would be defined as sculpture only if you were north of 40 degrees latitude.

Also, they have homeless guys on the street corners here who want to earn a buck or two by dirtying up your windshield with a filthy squeegee. And despite the huge number of potential clients in the standstill traffic, I didn’t see very many takers.

They apparently haven’t been talking to their Yankee colleagues, who threaten to vandalize the car if the driver doesn’t accept their offer.

And just like the Northeast, there’s a lot of history here in Houston. For instance, there’s San Jacinto, the site of the famous battle where Texas gained its independence from Mexico.

According to local accounts, the valiant Texans vanquished the enemy through great acts of bravery. But, as we know, history books are written by the victors. To get the real skinny, I had to check out both sides of the story. In doing so, I discovered that, in fact, the Mexicans decided to just pack it up once they realized that, at some point in the future, they could just come back.

But I’ve got to be fair to the people of Houston; they’re great sports. We noticed this last fall when a few of us Yankees came out to see our home football team play the Texans. We proudly strolled through the gates adorned in all our hometown colors, even down to my wife’s purple-tinted cowboy hat (which was lent to her for the occasion by a Houstonian). We beat the pants off them, yet we were subjected to only a little good-spirited ribbing from the locals. I guess Texans fans have to be that way, given the lopsided numbers that seem to be so commonplace on the scoreboard of Reliant Stadium.

For some reason, I don’t think we would have gotten the same reception in Dallas.

Mike McHugh is an engineer at Sasol North America, Inc. He and his wife Susan hail from the border state of Maryland and thoroughly love living in Southwest Louisiana.

TJN

Volume 1 • Issue 7

The

Boiling

P l

Brian Abshire Joins First National Bank First National Bank is proud to announce that Brian Abshire has joined the growing organization at its Lakes Charles branch as an executive and professional banker. Abshire joins First National Bank from JP Morgan Chase in Lake Charles and Lafayette, where he served as a private banker. Abshire has over ten years of experience in the industry with both community and international banks located in Texas and Louisiana having studied at McNeese State University. Additionally, Abshire is affiliated with a number of local civic organizations including the Young Men’s Business Club, Crime Stoppers Board of Directors, the Lake Charles and Lafayette Rotary Clubs and other civic interests. For more information about First National Bank, please visit www.fnb-la.com.

Bill Foltz Named Pastry Chef at L’Auberge du Lac L’Auberge du Lac recently hired Bill Foltz as its new pastry chef. Foltz specializes in fine dining, high volume banquets and exquisite chocolate and sugar showpieces and has held successful leadership positions at 4-star/4-diamond rated establishments. In 2006, he earned a gold medal at the U.S. Pastry Competition and was named U.S. Pastry Chef of the Year. Foltz brings more than 17 years of dynamic experience to L’Auberge.

He comes to Lake Charles from Dunwoody, Ga. where he was the executive pastry chef for Alon’s Bakery & Bill Foltz Market. Foltz graduated from the National Center for Hospitality Studies at Sullivan College in Louisville, Ky. with an associate of science in baking and pastry arts; and from Hocking College in Nelsonville, Ohio.

Oran Parker Joins Sweet Spot Telemedia Oran Parker has joined Judd Bares at Sweet Spot Telemedia, a Sulphur-based video production company, as creative services director. Parker and Bares worked together as ADDY Chair & Co-Chair to produce the 2009 ADDY Awards Gala for the American Advertising Federation’s Lake Charles chapter. Parker is an award-winning designer and illustrator, has owned his own business and has served the last two years as creative director for an advertising agency in Lake Charles. Parker’s new position allows him to utilize his Oran Parker unique brand of creativity and put his 13+ years of advertising & production experience to work. Stay up-to-date with the Sweet Spot Telemedia team by following them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sweetspottm.

Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Opens Office In Lake Charles The Milwaukee-based Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Volume 1 • Issue 7

announces the opening of a new district office in Lake Charles. Northwestern Mutual of Lake Charles, a district network office of Northwestern Mutual of Louisiana, will serve customers in the Lake Area. Ted Harless, Jr. will serve as managing director and oversee all business operations of the new office, located downtown at 127 W. Broad Street. “Our office will focus on the many small businesses in our area as well as the individual customer,” Harless said, “We’re here to provide expert guidance on products that can impact a business to be more efficient and successful.”

Cameron Communications public relations coordinator, Trina Johnson presents the $2,500 check to Adrian Moreno for the West Cal Arena.

Cameron Communications Donates $2,500 to West Cal Arena Cameron Communications public relations coordinator, Trina Johnson, presented a $2,500 check to Adrian Moreno for the West Cal Arena. Cameron Communications is able to aid the West Cal Arena facility in hosting various activities throughout the year.

Ted Harless

Ted Harless, Jr. Reaches Career Milestone Ted Harless, Jr. a financial representative with The Louisiana Group of Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, has qualified for membership in the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), an international, independent association of nearly 19,000 leading life insurance producers. A native of Lake Charles, Harless received his Life Underwriter Training council Fellow in 1992 from the National Association of Life Underwriters. He is a past president of the Lake Charles Chapter of Life Underwriters, past president of JULY 2, 2009

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the Calcasieu Chapter Sons of the American Revolution and the current Director of the Avenue of Flags for the past 19 years. He resides in Lake Charles with his wife Maria and sons, Ted III, 20, and Jonathan, 18.

USSSA Receives Sports Warchest Grant The Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau provided financial assistance for programming through a Sports Warchest Grant in the amount of $10,000 presented to Joey Odom, executive vice president of USSSA baseball and tournament coordinator. Odom received the grant on behalf of the USSSA Governor’s Games tournament, which utilizes fields throughout Lake Charles and Sulphur. This tournament is always a tremendous economic stimulant for the local economy as team members occupy more than 2,000 total room nights in Calcasieu Parish throughout the series of weekend tournaments May 23 – June 7. The Sports Warchest Grant is intended to enhance and encourage tournaments in Calcasieu Parish. For more information, contact the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau at (337) 436-9588 or visit www.visitlakecharles.org.

From left to right: Doug Gehrig, owner and operator of Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s, Hal McMillin, president of the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury and Don Breaux, general manager of Don’s Car Wash.

McDonald’s and Don’s Car Wash Work with Police Jury to Prevent Litter Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s and Don’s Car Wash have teamed up with the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury to fight litter. The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury began 2009 by enacting a no-tolerance policy towards littering. The Police Jury advises citizens, “You can’t afford to be trashy,” because littering will be punished with mandatory fines and multiple offenses will lead to court appearances. Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s and Don’s Car Wash are committed sponsors of the police jury’s anti-litter initiative. Both businesses are official “LitterFree Zones,” and will distribute litterbags and showcase anti-litter signs and stickers at all of their locations.” For more information on McDonald’s and Don’s Car Wash’s support of the Calcasieu Parish anti-litter campaign, contact Jen Breen at 478-7396.

Lake Charles Memorial Receives Platinum Level Louisiana Hospital Quality Award Lake Charles Memorial Hospital was recently awarded the Platinum Level 2008 Louisiana Hospital Quality Award by the Louisiana Health Care Review, Inc. (LHCR), the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for Louisiana.

Memorial was one of only 30 health care facilities in Louisiana—and the only hospital in Lake Charles—to receive a platinum level award, the highest recognition for improving the quality of health care. The Hospital Quality Award honors Louisiana hospitals that successfully implement quality initiatives directed toward improving patient care in the hospital setting. The platinum award indicates that Memorial achieved significant clinical quality improvement in all clinical topics applicable for its inpatient population.

E. Jacob Colonna PAGE 8

JULY 2, 2009

E. Jacob Colonna Joins The Richard Law Firm The Richard Law Firm, L.L.C., is pleased to announce that E. Jacob Colonna has joined the firm as an associate. He is an LSU graduate from the Paul M. Hebert School of Law in Baton Rouge, and will be practicing law at the firm’s new location at 1322 Ryan St. in Lake Charles. For more information, call 494-1900.

From left to right: Representing Team Le Bocage at The Spring Flowers Horse Show are Trainer: Michael Radich and students: Naomi Smith, Isabelle Boudreau, Victoria Vallier and Keli Sonnier. The ribbons displayed in this picture were earned by these students and some of the other trainers and students of Le Bocage.

Le Bocage Team Members Win Ribbons at Texas Horse Show Five team members of The Stables at Le Bocage rode their way into the ribbons at the Spring Flowers Horse Show in Katy, Texas. Keli Sonnier, riding on Phoebe of Le Bocage won a total of 11 ribbons, finishing with the Grand Champion in the Beginner Equitation Division. Isabel Boudreaux earned a total of seven ribbons and secured the Championship in the Pre-Green Hunter Division while riding Quickly of Le Bocage. Victoria Vallier earned a total of 11 ribbons, two of which were Reserve Champion in the Non-Pro Hunter Division riding Quickly of Le Bocage. Reni Botha of Lafayette earned a third-place ribbon in the Amateur Jumping Division. Naomi Smith of Chicot, La., also competed with the team at the show. The Stables at Le Bocage is a full-service equestrian facility offering group and private lessons, horse training and boarding. For more information call (337) 905-JUMP (5867) or visit their Web site at www.thestablesatlebocage.com.

Jon Margeaux Receives 2009 Lantern Award Jon Margeaux, a wholesale giftware company located in the Cottage Shop District on Hodges Street, Lake Charles, is proud to announce that it is the recipient of the 2009 Lantern Award for the Imperial-Calcasieu Regional Planning and Development Commission, District 5. This annual award presented by Louisiana Economic Development (LED) in partnership with the Louisiana Industrial Development Executives Association (LIDEA) recognizes those manufacturing companies that have made a significant impact on Louisiana’s economy. Accepting the award at the Governor’s Mansion recently were President and founder Sarah Ehlers and Vice President Greg Mahoney. District 5 has the distinction of being the only planning area whose winner is a women-owned company, operating exclusively in Louisiana’s cultural economy. For information, contact Sarah Ehlers at (337) 433-9722 or sarah@jonmargeaux.com. TJN

Sarah Ehlers, Greg Mahoney and Deb King Volume 1 • Issue 7

Volume 1 • Issue 7

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Cajun French Music Association, Lake Charles Chapter

22nd Cajun Music and Food Festival

July 18th & 19th, 2009 • Burton Coliseum, Lake Charles, LA SATURDAY, JULY 18, 2009 8:00 A.M. Doors Open 8:30 A.M. Opening Ceremonies 9:00 A.M. Arts & Crafts Open 9:00 A.M.-10:00 A.M. Kids Jam Hour 10:00-12:00 Noon Lesa Cormier & Sundown Playboys 12:00-1:00 P.M. Introduction of Queens Professional Accordion Contest 1:00 P.M.-3:00 P.M. Joe Simon & Louisiana Cajuns 1:00 P.M.-1:30 P.M. Dance Contest 3:00 P.M.-5:00 P.M. Ron Miller & Midnight Ramblers 5:00 P.M.-7:00 P.M. Paul Daigle & Cajun Gold 7:00 P.M.-10:00 P.M. Jackie Caillier & Cajun Cousins

SUNDAY, JULY 19, 2009 8:00 A.M. 9:00 A.M. 9:00 A.M. 9:00 A.M.-11:00 A.M. 11:00 A.M.-12:00 Noon 12:00 Noon-2:00 P.M. 2:00 P.M.-2:30 P.M. 2:30 P.M.-4:30 P.M.

French Mass with French Choir Coffee & Donut Social Arts & Crafts Open Ellis Vanicor & Lacassine Playboys Introduction of Queens Amateur Accordion Contest Don Fontenot & Les Amis De La Louisiane Silent Auction & Raffle Drawing Fricasee

PLEASE NO ICE CHESTS

n AdmissPeio rson

$7.00 Per Under Free & 2 1 n re d il h C

Queen's Pageant Saturda y, July

1 Contac t Charm 1, 2009 aine La ndry 337-43 6-1760

PLATINUM SPONSORS • Arts & Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana • Louisiana Decentralized Arts Funding Program

Contact Personnel Festival Chairman Bank Chairman Food Chairman Dance Contest Accordion Contest Arts & Crafts RV Reservations Raffle Tickets PAGE 10

JULY 2, 2009

Walter Gotreaux Rob Piraro Hilary Daigle Hazel Cormier Renee Daigle Betty Bergeron Robert Hebert Dorothy Bell

337-598-4149 337-217-4880 337-477-3174 337-477-4752 337-802-4077 337-562-0890 337-598-4149 337-478-3002 Volume 1 • Issue 7

Acting for the Camera! July 8 -10 Kerry A. Onxley, artistic director of the Children’s Theater, announces an additional workshop to its annual Summer Starz Series.

Acting for the Camera! affords children the chance to experience acting on camera. The workshop covers auditioning for commercials, reading commercial scripts, exploring different commercial techniques, and beginning improvisational skills. Information and samples are shared on doing résumés, headshots and finding the best

agent or manager while students participate with hands-on camera experience! The workshop will be offered on July 8-10 from noon-1:30 p.m. for children ages 8-18. The cost is $65. No experience necessary. The class has limited enrollment and is held at Central School of the Arts & Humanities Center (809 Kirby Street). For registration information, contact the theatre at (337) 433-7323 or visit the www.childrenstheatre.cc.

TJN

Gridiron 37 tickets Now on Sale If you’ve ever made an impulse buy after watching one of those fast-talking TV commercials, then you won’t want to miss the Ad & Press Club of Southwest Louisiana’s 37th Annual Gridiron Show. The fundraiser, a satire of local newsmakers and the media, is set for Sat., July 25, in the Lake Charles Civic Center’s Sudduth Coliseum.

This year’s theme is “As Seen on TV,” a localized spoof of TV shows and commercials, plus other current-events satire.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. for a social and networking hour. During that time, guests will be able to dine at several serving stations that will feature heavy hors d’ouevres and other specialties from local restaurants and vendors. The show will begin at 7:30 p.m.

The fundraiser pokes fun at local and state newsmakers and the media through skits, songs, monologues and videos. Proceeds from the show will benefit students at McNeese State University through the club’s permanent scholarship

Volume 1 • Issue 7

foundation and provide funds to the Commercial Arts Department at Sowela Technical Community College.

The Ad & Press Club is Southwest Louisiana’s oldest organization for communications professionals. The show is written, staged and performed entirely by club members. Brett Downer, longtime area writer and newsman, is once again the show’s director.

Each year Gridiron awards the Pan Award — a trophy made from a cheap skillet — to the newsmaker that gets “panned” the most in the show. Last year’s recipient was McNeese State University.

Tickets are $60 per person and $400 for a table of eight. Several levels of sponsorships are available.

Deadline to buy tickets is Wed., July 22. Seating is limited, and tickets are going fast. For tickets, call the Gridiron hotline at 583-4766; email gridironshow@yahoo.com, or order online at http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.adpressclub.com.

TJN

JULY 2, 2009

PAGE 11

Doyle

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496 W. Prien Lake Road, Lake Charles, LA 70601 (Inside Prien Lake Mall) • Phone: 337.477.2278 PAGE 12

JULY 2, 2009

Sorry I missed being with you folks last time out. I was heavily engaged in meetings with my brethren and sistern of the Bar at their annual convention, which was held this year in Florida at the Sandestin Resort. That is complete confirmation of your stereotype. Yes, most of my fellow lawyers like to play golf. I, on the other hand, do not.

I decided many years ago that I was never going to get better at the game, and also that I get plenty of frustration out of my work. So, it was only reluctantly (because I was on a panel for one of the events) that I made the drive to Florida.

Driving back was a real pleasure, because I was lucky enough to stop in and see my son Jamey, who is currently building LNG tanks in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. I didn’t know the town was still there after multiple hurricane strikes, and it sure doesn’t look the same as I remembered. But it was fun driving along Highway 90, which I traveled often as a college student in search of sand and bikinis. Didn’t see any this time.

I did, however, contract a powerful case of déjà vu.

I remembered that the last time I had been to a Bar Association convention, it was held on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

I also remembered that the last time I had been to a Bar convention, the big news of the event was that President Carter had attempted to rescue the hostages held in the American Embassy in Iran by use of helicopters and special forces troops landing in the desert.

I suppose you could draw one of two conclusions from this: 1. Its been a long time since I have been to a Bar convention; or 2. I only go to Bar conventions in the middle of an Iranian revolution.

Either one seemed to me to be important enough to take away my column-writing responsibilities for one issue, so thanks for the break.

Speaking of the new Iranian revolution, although there is nothing funny about it, I have heard some good oneliners from the more political humorists out there, including one observation that, in recounting the ballots, they found 14 extra votes for Norm Coleman.

If I had a vote in any election other than my own this week, I’m afraid it would go to Governor Mark Sanford of South Carolina. I realize that announcement may not sit well with some of you, but it’s not for the reasons you think.

With the culture in our country inching ever closer to actual rectal examinations as a requirement to run for office, it is painful in the extreme to read e-mails between anyone and their lover written with no expectation they’d ever be made public, and no justification I can see for making them public other than to embarrass the people involved. On that point alone, I give credit to Governor Sanford based on the low moral quality of his enemies.

By the way, this isn’t political; I’m not a Republican. I just feel sorry for the guy.

Did you see the Robert Duvall movie in which he becomes involved with a tango dancer in Buenos Aires (mimicking real life—the woman in the movie Assassination Tango is actually his wife, Luciana Pedraza)? Great movie. I understand the Argentine mystique. And by the sound of it, the Governor’s girlfriend beats the hell out of the Appalachian Trail when it comes to “adventure vacations.”

More than that, though, I understand the fallibility of the human heart.

The e-mails between Governor Volume 1 • Issue 7

Sanford and his Argentine lover are filled with the kind of longing those of you lucky enough to have had such a relationship already know well.

There are some cynics who believe that this governor is getting what he deserved because he condemned political adulterers in the pass, including President Clinton and Senator Larry Craig (showing a distinctly bipartisan approach), but I don’t believe that. I don’t believe there is any karma involved here. I think that this is just an all-too-human story where the protagonist imagines himself going away on a cloud with his beloved but instead, sees his whole world come crashing down.

I don’t want anyone to think that I am condoning the governor’s step away from his marriage vows. But I do think we spend way too much time in an Iranian revolution sort of way, criticizing the people that we elect to represent us when it turns out that, after all, they are human.

The hardliners in Iran clearly wanted President ShamaLamaDingDong to serve another term, notwithstanding his flagrant violation of international norms and his propensity for bellicose language. They were willing to do whatever was necessary to command that result. But never forget that the Iranian people have, for 30 years, supported the regime that picked him.

That may not be true tomorrow, but it is true today.

So whose fault is it—either in Tehran, Iran or in Columbia, South Carolina—when the person you chose to govern you turns out to have feet of clay? Tough question. Tougher answer.

As The Bard said in another context: “The fault, dear Brutus, lies not in our stars, but in ourselves. . . “ Glad to be back with you. If you have any extra Argentine mistresses out there, pass them along. And I’ll see you guys on the flip. TJN

Volume 1 • Issue 7

JULY 2, 2009

PAGE 13

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PAGE 14

JULY 2, 2009

Life

Parks and Pastries

By Sara Blackwell The long days of summer permit multiple hours of fun and excitement for Southwest Louisiana families. One idea for an early morning or late afternoon activity is what I call “parks and pastries.” It’s important to offer healthy snack alternatives to our children, but once in awhile, a sweet treat is in order. For a parks and pastries day, drive your kids to a bakery and have each pick out their favorite tartlet. With the pastries bagged and packed in the car, take the kids to their favorite park for a picnic of sweet treats followed by hours of slides, swings and hanging upside down.

Lake Charles offers several wonderful bakeries full of delicious

desserts and individual indulgences perfect for this special day. In particular, Jo’s Party House, located at 1930 Ethel Street, specializes in gigantic, scrumptious, colorful cupcakes. At merely 55 cents, this mini-cake can hardly be categorized as a typical cupcake. In addition to their famous cupcakes, Jo’s has several types of cookies, brownies and other delights to choose from. They’re open from 8 a.m. through 5 p.m., Mon. through Fri., and 8 a.m. — noon on Sat. They’ve recently added sandwiches and salads to the menu for those of you who prefer a meal-sized snack.

Another tempting bakery option is A Piece of Cake, located at 2711 Hodges Street. They create a delicious, sprinkle-covered cupcake that’s sure to please. Who doesn’t love sprinkles on a colorful miniature cake? They also offer decorated cookies and my all-time favorite, the cookie sandwich. There is nothing sweeter than two chocolate chip cookies stuffed full of icing!

A Piece of Cake is open Mon. from noon to 5 p.m., Tues. - Thurs from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Fri. from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Let’s face it; bakeries are considered heaven on Earth for most children. They will have the time of their lives choosing between

Volume 1 • Issue 7

the different luscious sweets behind the glass counters.

After the treats are selected, it’s time to head to your preferred local park. Lake Charles and the surrounding areas have numerous wonderful, safe areas for children to play until their little bodies collapse with exhaustion or until you force the departure, whichever comes first.

Where you go depends on the age of the children, the location of the park and the desired activities. A park with picnic tables is recommended for parks and pastries day.

Cupcakes and icing-filled cookies can be messy if eaten in the car or on a blanket of play sand. I feel sticky just thinking about such a predicament!

Sam Houston Jones State Park is an incredible place to visit. Located in Moss Bluff at 101 Sutherland Road, the entire family can have a great time here. For $1 per person, it offers two large play areas including slides, swings and climbing apparatus, along with picnic areas with tables. In addition, there are public restrooms, which brings true joy to pregnant mothers or parents of toddlers!

This particular park also offers five walking/running trails varying from half a mile to four miles. There is a paved road for bicycling or rollerblading, and fishing is available in the adjacent river or the pond.

Your kids will enjoy the wild ducks that hang around waiting to be fed by the locals. A family could spend an entire day of fun here. Sam Houston is open from 6 a.m. — 9 p.m. every day of the week.

Another wonderful park located nearby is Frasch Park in Sulphur.

Open daily from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m.; it’s located at 400 Picard Road, only minutes away from Lake Charles.

This park is perfect for children of almost all ages. There’s an extensive playground for young children and the sand volleyball courts for the older kids. If it’s a parks and pastries day, there are several picnic tables available. Frasch Park has walking tracks, tennis courts, outdoor basketball goals, baseball fields, an indoor gym, and much-welcome public restrooms. Go and enjoy!

Lake Charles and the surrounding areas have countless more bakeries and parks to choose from. Give parks and pastries day a try before your children are thrust back into the world of school-filled days. I’m sure they will thank you for it! TJN

Volume 1 • Issue 7

By Appointment Only • Monday, July 13 thru Saturday, July 18 Upscale Designer Clothing and Samples Many never worn or worn only for modeling purposes.

Open to the Public Monday, July 20 thru Friday, July 24

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CLASS INCLUDES: Basic Ghost Hunting, Equipment Usage including Photography, Videography, Audio Equipment and more. We will also cover location research and how to conduct an investigation.

ALSO INCLUDES ACTUAL INVESTIGATION OF A POSSIBLY HAUNTED LOCATION. Classes limited to 20 spots and will fill fast. Cost is $50.

To reserve your spot, e-mail swla@swlaparanormal.com or call (337) 433-0227.

JULY 2, 2009

PAGE 15

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JULY 2, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 7

By George “Tip” Cline

There’s no Free Lunch The response from my first column was really gratifying. I didn’t realize that so many readers would care to reply. I thank you for your interest, and I’ll do my best to pass on what I think you’d like to know.

Send The Jambalaya News your own ideas that you would like to share with others. Remember, we’re trying to save money; for businesses, making money is their concern.

Various sales entities use business promotions to increase dollar volume. Everyone looks for a way to get the most out of their dollar (at least those of us who aren’t trying to impress people with how much we can and will pay for an item). The flyers for the grocery stores usually come out on Wednesday and the price changes start that day.

Make sure you check last week’s flyer before then. If there was a really good sale on one of your favorite items, you can get it before it goes off sale. Doesn’t it peeve you when the clerks say, “Oh, that was on sale yesterday?” Just by putting an ad out doesn’t guarantee that you’ll save. It’s a ploy to put an item in a flyer at the regular price to make you think you’re getting more bang for your buck.

When I was at LSU, I received an education both on and off campus.

One lesson I learned there concerned a favorite spot of mine. It was an Army surplus store that had tons of guy-type items. One item that I found amusing was canned military water. It was labeled “Water, Drinking, Emergency” in a grayish green tin can. The normal everyday price was $.10. The store would have their annual 1/3 off sale, and low and behold, the water was labeled $.15 for the sale. Need I say more?

Volume 1 • Issue 7

I always get a little suspicious when the price is not plainly expressed. For example, take the items advertised on TV that you can try for 30 days for only $X.XX plus S&H, with no mention of how much the after-30-days’ price is. You’re on really thin ice with this gimmick because they now have your credit card info. I wonder if I can afford to be that gullible on the front end. I’ll bet there are a lot of hoops to jump through to not get stuck with the item at the price they wouldn’t give you up front. It’s a form of intimidation to make you feel embarrassed to ask how much. Why should you be?

It’s your money that’s being spent.

Magazines are taking a new tack.

Your renewals will make sure you don’t let your subscription lapse.

They offer continuous renewals until you tell them to quit. How convenient is that? They have your credit card info again and will just happily bill you until the end of creation for their rag. I always let my subscription lapse and then check around for the best rate on a new one. I find better rates than the convenient perpetual obligation way. Check it out!

One promotion that goes around every now and then that makes real sense is the bonus gift card. You buy a card for $25 and they give you a bonus of $5. Where can you make 20 percent on your money any easier than that? It’s a tax-free deal, and you didn’t have to earn the $5 that you are going to be able to spend. It’s a real deal that some restaurants offer, so make sure you check to see if any of your favorites has that promotion going on. I use it every time one of my favorites has it available.

Makes real good sense if you eat or shop there on a regular basis. They

benefit from the extra business and you benefit, too. Be careful of any date of expiration, though.

In the last issue, we spoke of propane refills. This is a gimmick that’s being used now that they’re not filling the tanks completely.

Have you noticed that your grill needs a refill faster than it used to?

Make sure you’re getting a full tank—get the gas you pay for, not hot air from the folks that are using the 14-ounce pound, the 1-quart and a 1/2 half gallon and the short shot drink. You worked for your money, so make them work to get it from you fair and square.

When you compare prices, check to see that you are comparing apples to apples. Don’t be fooled by items that get sold by the package and not by a standard measure. The marketing gurus are using every new and old trick that they can to separate you and your dollar. Even old trusted brands are subjecting you to misleading info. How about the 100 percent juice label on canned drinks? It says cranberry and you think that’s what you’re getting, but read on.

You’ll find out that you’re getting juice all right—grape with some

cranberry. Think I’m kidding?

Check for yourself.

Just remember that there is no free lunch. Somebody pays it for somehow, somewhere. No business can last if it doesn’t make a profit. It’s how the free enterprise system works.

There are two ways of doing business: You do a deal one time and make as much as you can off your customer, or you treat your customers honestly and fairly and do business with them for a lifetime.

Having been a businessman for many years, I know that the second way is much more profitable. Find establishments that have that philosophy, and you will be much more satisfied.

If you find this column of interest, let The Jambalaya News know.

Comments, suggestions, ideas, info, etc. are welcome. Send to lauren@thejambalayanews.com. TJN

Locally Owned and Operated

Flight Services Include: • Aerial Tours • Rides/Promotions • Cattle Herding • Digital Aerial Photography • Electronic News Gathering • Powerline / Pipeline Patrol • Storm Damage Assessment • Fish & Wildlife Management • Construction Site Inspections • Oil & Gas Industry Support • Artificial Pollination - Corn / Rice • Search-Rescue-Recovery / Law Enforcement Max Trost and his son Max Alajandro

MAX TROST Owner/Pilot

Southland Field Airport, Sulphur, La 70665 Office (337) 583-2742 • Cell (337) 802-4209 E-mail: maxairhelicopters@yahoo.com Visit our website at maxairhelicopters.com JULY 2, 2009

PAGE 17

By Lisa Yates

Ship to Shore:

More than Just a Boat Store At Ship to Shore, boating is more than a business – it’s a lifestyle.

It’s a lifestyle that centers on family, friends, activity and fun, health and vitality, which plays out in the fresh air and sunshine of the great outdoors, according to store owner Sheron Faulk.

“Behind the red doors, you’ll find more than just a boat store,” she said.

“It’s an experience.”

Ship to Shore’s unique shop is the area’s premier small boating specialty store featuring canoes, kayaks, pirogues, pedal boats, inflatable boats and two-person bass boats.

Located at 4313 Lake Street in Lake Charles, you’ll also find the latest toys, the greatest gadgets and new technologies in boating safety and navigational equipment.

GPS equipment Faulk said one of the most popular products at Ship to Shore is a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver.

She said these units can either be mounted in your car or boat, or they can come in a portable system that you can transfer from vehicle to vehicle. Once a destination is entered into the GPS navigational system, it can literally walk you through your trip telling you where to turn and the time and distance relative to each portion of the drive.

Some navigational units offer a feature where you can find restaurants, shopping, hospitals and accommodations regardless of where you are; this can be incredibly useful when hunting

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JULY 2, 2009

services in an unfamiliar town. GPS tracking, another of the GPS devices, allows you to track another person or thing.

Faulk said there are even GPS units for fitness.

She said fitness GPS devices can be used to enhance your exercise program through a variety of apps that can do everything from counting calories, to logging your workouts on a map, to storing all of your time and distance stats.

“For the technically challenged, we offer free GPS training for equipment bought at our store,” she said. “If you didn’t buy the equipment here, there’s a charge for the training.”

Besides GPS, the store has a variety of navigational aids, including VHF radios, EPIRBS, topographic maps, and navigation charts and compasses.

As a port and shipping center, Faulk said there is a need for key navigational charts to navigate ships through area channels. Her customers include commercial shipping and commercial fishing companies, cities and municipalities, and recreational boaters.

“A lot of people don’t know it, but we have detailed maps of Lake Charles – spiral-bound city street maps in book form, which are hard to find,” she said.

Small boats Ship to Shore specializes in canoes, kayaks and other small lightweight boats. Faulk said paddle boats are big sellers, too.

Rachel Mills, store manager; and, Sheron Faulk, owner.

“Paddle boats are fun and especially popular with families,” she said. “We have some that are motorized and some with canopies to protect you from the sun.”

Faulk said the store also specializes in certain niches of interest such as ultra-lightweight kayaks and canoes, fitness kayaks and rowing shells.

“We also have fiberglass pirogues and wooden pirogues,” she said.

“Wooden pirogues are hard to find.”

Faulk said for more fun in the sun, there’s a range of knee boards, wake boards, tubes and tow ropes, too. She said to check out the store’s Web site for a complete list of products: www.shiptoshoreco.com.

Flags and flagpoles The folks at Ship to Shore also pride themselves on being the best local source for all sizes of flags and flag poles. Faulk said their inventory includes all types of the American flag, state flags, LSU flags, and flags of the world.

“We carry all sizes of flags and flagpoles, all the time,” she said. “We even have the big U.S. flags you see at car dealerships.”

Once a gentleman came into the store and asked Faulk for the biggest flag she had.

“I told him our biggest flag was 20foot by 30-foot,” she said. “He didn’t need one that big.”

Faulk said her staff will work with you to insure you install the right size

flagpole for home. She said there are several factors in determining which flagpole is right for you: wind zone area, flagpole height, base diameter, wall thickness, and the size of flag you want to fly. She added remember to follow proper flag protocol.

“It’s important to check the condition of your flag,” she said. “If it is torn or tattered, please replace it. In bad weather, you need to take your flag down off the pole. Flying it in bad weather can bend the pole. Taking it down in bad weather will also save your flag. Also, never fly your flag at night unless the flagpole is lit.”

Faulk said Ship to Shore carries the “correct” Louisiana state flag.

She said the “correct” flag design shows a mother pelican wounding her chest with three drops of blood depicted. Over the years, the three drops of blood were omitted from the flag’s design until an eighth-grader in Houma brought it to the attention of a state legislator.

“The Louisiana Legislature passed a bill a few years ago (in 2006) mandating the three drops of blood to be depicted on the state flag,” she said.

Faulk said flags make great tools for marketing.

“We also make custom promotional flags,” she said. “We can put your company’s logo on a flag.”

Volume 1 • Issue 7

Marine safety equipment Faulk said Ship to Shore is dedicated to bringing you the best and latest marine safety equipment at very competitive prices. She said they offer a full line of survival equipment including life jackets, life rafts, distress flares, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, lifebuoys and much more.

“We also team up with the Lake Charles Power Squadron to offer safe boating classes,” she said.

She said their next safe boating class is a one day class, held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sat., July 11, at the Lake Charles Power Squadron clubhouse.

The clubhouse is located just past the I-210 boat launch past LaFleur Park.

Cost is $5 for each person. Call Ship to Shore at 474-0730, for more information.

Faulk’s No. 1 safe boating tip: Wear a lifejacket.

“We have low-profile lifejackets in bright colors – they aren’t too bulky or hot,” she said. “They are comfortable to wear.”

She said all children 12 years of age and younger must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved lifejacket when boating.

other boating stores.

“We take good care of our customers,” she said. “Our employees know about each product and can help guide customers to find what they need.”

Her staff includes: (her daughter) Rachel Mills, store manager; Jill Simon, office manager; and, Tony Pecorino, sales manager.

Mills, 26, described The North Face product line as a high-end brand of outdoor apparel and equipment, skiwear, jackets, fleece, tents, backpacks and other clothing and accessories.

“If you’re headed to LSU in the fall, you know about The North Face,” she said. “A lot of LSU students wear it. It’s very trendy there.”

Ship to Shore also carries Sperry footwear and Costa Del Mar polarized sunglasses – more trendy brands.

Mills said if you are traveling to a cooler climate this summer, you can find clothing at Ship to Shore. She carries winter clothing year-round.

When you get ready to take your first ski trip, stop by the store – Mills said they have a complete list of everything you need.

The North Face clothing Faulk said product knowledge is what sets Ship to Shore apart from

Yeti coolers Mills said the store also stocks Yeti coolers. What are Yeti coolers?

Volume 1 • Issue 7

“They have special foam insulation and gasket-type seal like a true deep freeze,” she said. “They keep ice from melting for a ridiculously long time – two to three weeks.”

Ship to Shore is fun store to browse – filled with unique products like these. The store also had a unique beginning. It started as a home-based business, according to Faulk.

“It originally started in the garage behind my house,” she said. “I started the business at home when my girls were little. In ’94 it outgrew my garage, so I bought the land here and built the building.”

Faulk came up with the nautical design of the building and its famous red doors.

“I wanted it to look and sound different,” she said, noting the

Caribbean music playing in the background. “It’s impossible to walk through the door without receiving a personal greeting.”

Duck calls Faulk explained why she sells duck calls at Ship to Shore.

“I carry the complete line of Faulk duck calls – the line was started by my dad,” she said. “I guess that’s how I got started in business. It’s a tradition in my family.”

For more information about Ship to Shore, call (337) 474-0730, or visit online at www.shiptoshoreco.com; or at 4313 Lake St. in Lake Charles. Store hours are 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Mon. – Fri.; 9 a.m. – noon, Sat. TJN

JULY 2, 2009

PAGE 19

If you have a recipe and story you would like to share, e-mail us at lauren@thejambalayanews.com

Titanic Rose Mint Sorbet Recipe – 1912 Edwardian Style

By Katsie Barbier (Butt) Fanelli

Clarification In the June 18 issue, the Catfish Roullard recipe contained an error in the ingredients. It should read 16 oz. of chicken stock.

Restaurant and would have enjoyed an elaborate nine-course To commemorate the sinking of the Titanic meal. Rose was not just the name of Kate Winslet’s character in on April 15, 1912 and to honor my ancestor, Major the blockbuster movie Titanic; it was also an ingredient served Archibald W. Butt; our family held a dinner party. My that very night. As part of the meal, serving a sorbet to cleanse mother’s maiden name is Butt and we have always been the palate between courses was customary and the use of rose fascinated with the history surrounding the sinking of water was apropos. the Titanic knowing that our ancestor, Archie, lost his The Edwardian upper classes were the ultimate big spenders, life that tragic night. forever in pursuit of ostentation and style. At that time, rose Every year on the anniversary of the sinking, water was used in many ways, from a light and natural perfume we would always talk about Archie; but this year, we to a hair rinse; added to your bath or laundry; as the gentlest of decided to plan a special dinner much like he experienced all astringents; and believe it or not, even in food that evening. After years of collecting informarecipes. tion on the Titanic and research by many, we Rose water is not the easiest product to find in were able to acquire some of the actual recipes Lake Charles, but after much research I found it at and information surrounding Archie’s activities Pure Foods & Health, at 138 W. Prien Lake Rd. that fateful night.

If you’d like to make it, it’s relatively easy. A quick We decided to prepare as accurate a menu as search on the Internet will provide you with various we could and also have fun by dressing in instructions for making an excellent quality rose period clothing, with the women in water, if you have about 40 minutes to prepare.

Edwardian-style hats and dresses, and I’m sharing with you the recipe we used at our the men in tuxedos. We even played the Titanic dinner party that turned out to be both easy orchestral music selections played on board and delicious! The taste and aroma was spectacular, the Titanic to add to the whole ambiance of the and with one spoonful you were transported back evening. in time to April 15, 1912. Bon Voyage, enjoy!

We learned that Archie was a guest of Mr. and TJN Katsie Barbier Fanelli Mrs. George Wiedner in the First Class A La’ Carte

Rose Water and Mint Sorbet Rose water became popular in the seventeenth century as a flavoring for desserts and would have been familiar to Edwardian palates.

Ingredients 1 1/2 cups of rose water (you can find at health food stores) 1 cup water 1/2 cup simple syrup (recipe follows) 1/4 cup lightly packed mint leaves 1 1/2 tsp. lemon juice DIRECTIONS In blender or food processor, mix together rose water, water, simple syrup, mint leaves, and lemon juice.

Blend until mint is finely chopped.

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JULY 2, 2009

Pour into ice-cream maker and freeze following manufacturer’s instructions.

Or, pour mixture into chilled, shallow metal pan; cover and freeze for two (2) hours or until firm.

Break up into pieces and transfer to food processor; puree until smooth.

Pour into chilled, airtight container; freeze for 20 minutes or until almost firm.

Soften in refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving.

Serve in chilled open champagne glasses or you can make ice bowls (see below).

Makes 2 1/2 cups; serves 4 to 6.

so that when another bowl is placed inside it, the water rises just to the rim of the outside dish. Freeze for one (1) hour or until solid.

Remove inside dish (use a small amount of hot water if necessary); decoratively place rose petals and mint leaves on top of ice. Freeze for ten (10) minutes or until decorations are secured to ice; pour in a few tablespoons of water to cover leaves and petals, freeze until needed.

Simple Syrup: 2 cups granulated sugar 1 cup water Ice Bowls Fill a small, shallow dish with enough water Volume 1 • Issue 7

Jambalaya!

Food and Fun Under the Sallier Oak Mark your calendars for 10 a.m., Sat., Aug. 29, at the Imperial Calcasieu Museum for the first Jambalaya Cook-off, sponsored by The Jambalaya News. Area cooks are invited to prepare their special recipes and submit for judging by a panel of “experts.” On-lookers are encouraged to come and sample the fare. Music, beverages, and lots more. Admission is $10 to sample all the entries; and, there will be a cash beverage bar. For more information on entering your special recipe, please contact Kay Andrews at The Jambalaya News at 436-7800, or the Imperial Calcasieu Museum at 439-3793.

Volume 1 • Issue 7

JULY 2, 2009

PAGE 21

A Greener

W

RLD

Go Green – Not Broke

By Kelli Fontenot

In some cases, going green is synonymous with going broke.

Hybrid cars and organic produce are expensive, but there are ways to conserve precious energy that will also keep you from emptying your wallet.

A recently completed housing development in Lake Charles is providing a new way to find out just how much energy – and money – people can save by going green.

The developer will have the opportunity to study and compare electric bills of a house with average fixtures to figures from an identical house with energy-efficient upgrades, according to CJ Tech’s Charles Abshire, the electrical contractor.

CJ Tech and Teche Electric Supply teamed up with Reeves Development for the project. “There are about 200 houses out there. Only the last 23 that we’ve done have been green, and we’re going from there and doing 100

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JULY 2, 2009

percent green from now on,” Abshire said.

The rent for these homes is between $600 and $800 a month, according to Jason Garcille, senior project manager of Reeves Development. Most of the renters are families with low to medium incomes.

Some tenants can use Section 8 vouchers to meet rent requirements for the houses, which range from 2-4 bedrooms, Garcille said.

The families also save money in the long run. One 14-Watt Energy Star light bulb – that twirly fluorescent one – can replace a 60-Watt incandescent bulb and last approximately five years. Energy efficient electrical fixtures can cut electricity bills by as much as 30 percent, Abshire said.

Green thumbs The completed houses are a result of the insightful planning of develop-

er Bob Davis, according to Debbie Luquette of Teche Electric.

For Luquette, Abshire, Jason Garcille and Aaron Brown of Reeves Development, going green was a new experience. “This is the third development I’ve done for this company, and they decided they wanted to go green this time,” Luquette said.

Luquette worked with Teche Electric to select hundreds of light fixtures for the development.

“It was really exciting to finally get into that green thing. I don’t think anybody around here is really doing it,” Luquette said.

Brown, the project manager, had never participated in such a project.

“There was quite a bit of research,” Brown said. “We had a good amount of meetings beforehand just to make sure that this was a viable option for us, that it was going to be cost effective.”

Federal tax credits for Energy Star

homes are available at 30 percent of the cost, (up to $1,500) for windows, doors, insulation, roofs, water heaters and other appliances, according to energystar.gov.

From the outside, the subdivision looks ordinary. A just-finished clubhouse awaits neighborhood parties.

Children play on the freshly laid sod covering each lawn, and trees – which were left unharmed during the construction process – peek out from behind each house.

These sleek new homes come equipped with Green Energy Star appliances, including a washer, dryer and refrigerator. Energy efficient or “low E” glass protects air from escaping through the windows, and the walls are filled with R19 insulation instead of the R13 minimum to keep air inside the house.

The fixtures in each house feature fluorescent bulbs and quiet fans, Luquette said. The houses use split

Volume 1 • Issue 7

Keeping you Cool!

Look for The Jambalaya News Spice Girl.

She will have $1.00 Off Coupons for the Cold Stone Creamery. Coupons expires October 1, 2009. Limited to the first 100.

The Jambalaya News 826 Ford St., Lake Charles 337-436-7800

Green Energy Star appliances and bulbs save money.

system heat air conditioning and low flow water fixtures. Even the low VOC paint on the walls is ecofriendly, according to Brown and Garcille. Moreover, the outdoor landscaping is irrigation tolerant and drought resistant.

The stained concrete floors are scored to resemble tile and finished with a low VOC sealant for a glossy surface. This ensures low environmental impact.

“There’s no carpet that ends up in a landfill,” Garcille said.

The houses with two stories must use carpet made from recycled material, Brown said.

If you are interested in leasing, contact the office at (337) 497-1700 or go to www.tri-starmanagement.com.

But for those who aren’t ready to make the full switch, there are a few simple steps you can take.

Going green In terms of saving the environment, there’s no time like the present.

“It’s something good to get into now because it’s not something that is going away. This is going to be the way of the future; this is the building of the future. It’s just good to get a leg up and a head start on it,” Brown said.

Luquette said everyone should take at least a few steps toward ener-

Volume 1 • Issue 7

gy efficiency.

Replacing regular fans with low E fans and incandescents with fluorescents can save money and lower the overall temperature of a home.

In hot, humid Louisiana, Luquette said, that makes a real difference.

“It just pays for itself. I’ve personally changed everything in my house, and I notice the difference,” Luquette said.

In 2012, Congress will begin phasing out incandescent lighting as part of a law approved in 2007, according to US News.com.

“People are scared of it. They’re used to incandescent bulbs; that’s what they grew up with. Times are changing. You’ve got to go with the flow,” Luquette said.

And, if you don’t like the look of those twirly brights, Luquette pointed out that a frosted floodlight that hides the swirl can be used in track and recessed fixtures.

Charles Abshire of CJ Tech said more attractive fixtures are becoming available.

“You’re spending a thousand more dollars in fixtures, but if you’re going to save yourself an average of $50 a month over the long term, you’re going to make your money back,” Abshire said. TJN

JULY 2, 2009

PAGE 23

By Lauren de Albuquerque

Geoff and Irene Howse It’s late Sunday afternoon on the West Fork of the Calcasieu River. It’s the summer solstice; the longest day of the year, and the locals are clearly taking full advantage of this glorious day as jet skis, cigarette boats, party barges, and motor boats pulling daredevil water skiers bring the river to life.

Geoff and Irene Howse live on the Westlake side of the river in a lovely home full of photos and mementoes of the full lives they have led. But their crowning glory is docked right behind their house: the Down Under, a 60-foot motor yacht manufactured by President.

The couple purchased the boat in 2007. Prior to that, they owned a smaller boat—a 32-foot Carver. When they saw the Down Under, they fell in love with it. But ownership didn’t appear to be in the cards for them.

“We were looking for a larger boat, and we were working with a salesman,” Irene said. “He showed us a photo and we knew we couldn’t afford it. But he convinced us to go to Kemah to see it.” When they saw the boat,

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JULY 2, 2009

their mouths dropped. But as it turned out, it had just gone under contract.

Still, they spent six hours on the boat that day, marveling at every inch of it. But since the price was too steep, it was just as well that it was now off the market. But they couldn’t forget that boat.

As they say, timing is everything.

Shortly afterwards, they received a phone call from the salesman, telling them that the deal had fallen through.

The boat was once again available.

“So we decided to make an offer, but it was a low bid,” said Irene, never dreaming it would be accepted. They couldn’t believe their good fortune when they found out that the “dreamboat” was theirs.

Both Geoff and Irene have always loved the water. Irene is originally from California, and Geoff hails from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, and has had boats since he was 17. “In Australia, you need a license to drive a boat—any boat. Not like here,” he said.

The couple met in Houston while both were living there. Geoff was an

assurance manager for British Petroleum—a very stressful job that he admits was killing him. Irene has two daughters who live in Lake Charles, so after spending two years in Chicago after Geoff was transferred there, they ended up moving to the Lake Area.

“I asked my employer if I could work in Lake Charles, and they agreed,” Geoff smiled. “They needed someone to handle their South American operations. So I worked from home and traveled to South America every month. It was so much better. Much less stress.”

Geoff finally retired this past December. “I was sick of traveling, and South America has gotten very dangerous. I had to travel with lifelines

and a bodyguard because of all the kidnapping attempts, and I’ve been shot at.” Yikes!

Geoff and Irene are still having adventures, but now, they’re almost exclusively of the aquatic kind—and it’s as peaceful as it can get. Irene admits that she sleeps much better on the boat than she does in her own bedroom at home. When I saw that comfy king-size bed in the lovely master bedroom, I wasn’t surprised.

On the Down Under Once aboard the Down Under, I was struck by its absolute pristine cleanliness. “Friday is scrub day,” Geoff said, and scrub they must—the white deck was shining. “We’re constantly doing something to keep the boat up.

You’ve heard what BOAT stands for— Bring Out Another Thousand!” he laughed. “But at least we’re saving on storage fees since it’s behind our house.”

The boat doesn’t just sit in port. “We

Volume 1 • Issue 7

take it out a lot,” Irene said. The Down Under’s motor has run for 1,300 hours.

It has twin caterpillar engines that are 6oo horsepower each.

A tour below deck reveals two sleek, contemporary bedrooms with adjoining baths, a bunk room (which they hope to turn into an office one day), a galley with shining granite countertops, a booth-style dining area set with nautical china and lighthouse candles, and a large, beautifully appointed living area with couches and chairs. A boomerang hangs on one wall, a nod to Geoff ’s homeland.

There’s also another set of controls if you prefer to steer below deck. The wood throughout the boat is just gorgeous. It truly is a home away from home.

There’s also a model of an old Chilean naval ship, the Esmeralda, by one of the windows. Geoff had attended a government meeting in Chile and saw the model in a glass display case and wanted to know the background.

He was told that the Navy still trains their personnel on that ship, even though it was built over a hundred years ago. Geoff was fascinated, and he decided he wanted a model to put on his boat. So they put him in touch with the artist.

“He told me that he was just finishing a model of that ship for President Clinton, and when he was done, he would do one for me,” Jeff smiled. “So President Clinton and I have the only two models besides the Chilean government!”

Volume 1 • Issue 7

Irene and Geoff make a great team as they get the Down Under ready for a cruise up the river. “Yes, we work well together. We both have our jobs to do,” Geoff said. He’s mainly the “captain,” but Irene can steer the boat, too. “The only thing I won’t do is dock it,” she said. “I leave that up to Geoff!”

As the man from Down Under expertly maneuvers the Down Under down the river, we sit up on the bridge sipping wine, enjoying the evening breeze, and waving to the other boaters. In the background, “Waltzing Matilda” is playing. Yes, this is indeed the life!

And it’s one that the Howeses happily share with friends and family.

Irene’s daughters and their families are frequent guests. “The kids just love it!” she said. Geoff ’s niece from Australia visited them recently and fell in love with the boat. And as members of the Lake Charles Power Squadron, they have a wide circle of boating friends to go on seafaring adventures with.

Adventures with the Power Squadron Not only are they members; currently, Irene holds the title of Power Squadron Commander, overseeing the

club’s operation. Geoff is the administrative officer.

“It’s a fantastic organization,” Irene said. “First of all, there’s the camaraderie. We have Friday night socials, theme parties, and a raffle every month.” There’s always a group boating trip planned somewhere, and there are monthly raft ups.

They also help Squadron members plan bigger sea adventures and ensure their safety. Gordon and Nancy Tugwell are currently on a two-month voyage in the Exuma Islands. Irene is their “spot.” That means they e-mail her every day to give their position in case they run into trouble. Irene had just received an e-mail from them, which she let me read. It sounds like they’re on a fabulous adventure!

To make sure their members have safe voyages, the Power Squadron offers various boating courses for members, including piloting, seamanship, navigation and cruise planning, among others.

What’s very important to Irene is their public boating safety course. It’s the organization’s primary civic effort toward public instruction in the fundamentals of safe boating. It’s free and

is designed to familiarize students with the fundamentals of safe boating and qualify for certification before operating a watercraft. The courses are offered four times year; the next one is scheduled for July 11.

Involved with the city Along with her commander duties, Irene is in charge of all of the city water events, including Contraband Days, in an advisory capacity. The Down Under has won two first-place trophies for the Lighted Boat Parade.

“If there’s any water event run by the city, we’re involved,” Irene said.

“We really want to support the city.”

Speaking of the city, the Howses are thrilled about the new marina that is being built behind the civic center.

“I told the mayor that I believe it will have a big impact on our city,” she said. “We have friends in Houston who are dying for someplace to go (by water).”

The marina should be finished in approximately six months, and will have concrete floating docks. There will be slips available for approximately 135 boats, large and small. “It’s going to be wonderful,” Irene said.

The Great Loop Eventually, the Howses plan to live full-time on the boat one day. And they have big plans: They’re going to experience the adventure of The Great Loop.

The Great Loop (also known as the Great Circle

JULY 2, 2009

PAGE 25

Ben and Tricia Garber go over the float plan for their next trip with Geoff and Irene.

Route) is the continuous waterway that encompasses the eastern portion of North America – including the Atlantic and Gulf Intracoastal Waterways, the Great Lakes, the Canadian Heritage Canals, and the inland rivers of America’s heartland. It is considered one of the safest long distance cruising routes in the world.

It takes over a year to make the Great Loop, and must be timed perfectly “so you’re in Florida during the winter months and you’re up North in the summer,” Geoff said. They plan on taking the journey with another couple. “We’re waiting for them to retire,” he laughed. “But they’ll take their own boat,” Irene said. “You don’t want to be in tight quarters with two other people for that long!”

The America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association assists Great Loop cruisers with various needs such as safety, sharing navigational and cruising information, and networking among Loopers. “They even give you a flag when you start the voyage,” Geoff said.

Life’s a boat In the meantime, the Howses continue to go on shorter cruises. As we docked later that evening, their good friends Ben and Tricia Garber were waiting for them to go over the float plan for their next adventure—a trip to Corpus Christi.

Ben is the past commander of the Power Squadron, and he and Tricia own the Contraband, another amazing motor yacht, which I’m sure many readers have seen along the sea wall behind the Civic Center during Contraband Days and other events.

For this trip, however, they’ll be cruising on the Down Under with Irene and Geoff. At this writing, the two couples are on their journey and having a fabulous time, I’m sure.

What do Irene and Geoff love most about the boat? “The escape!” Irene answered readily. “This boat means freedom to us.”

For information on The Lake Charles Power Squadron, go to www.lcsps.org.

TJN

Irene steers below deck.

Add some spice to your life!

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Full-time position, prior sales experience required.

E-mail resume to publisher@thejambalayanews.com or call (337) 263-4736 for more information.

826 Ford Street, Lake Charles, 70601 PAGE 26

JULY 2, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 7

Proper Care For Your Catch Louisiana’s anglers are accustomed to abundant catches of bass, bream, sac-a-lait, and various saltwater fish.

A common problem, however, is improper handling of fish intended for the table. Here are some tips on proper care: • Quickly ice down fish. This sounds elementary, but there are those who get swept up in the thrill of catching fish and forget this important step. Fish should be placed on ice immediately upon being caught. Be sure you have ample ice before leaving the dock.

• Take full advantage of your ice.

This means pouring the ice out of the bag and making sure there is a layer of ice above and below the fish.

• Fish placed in an ice/water slurry chill faster than those placed on ice alone. Leave water in your ice chest as long as an adequate amount of ice stays in the water. Water temperatures will stay at or near 32 degrees Fahrenheit and keep fish cool.

• Another technique effective in keeping fish fresh on hot days or for extended periods is to gut the fish and pack the body cavities with ice.

That chills the fish faster.

Caution: It is illegal to filet saltwater finfish before returning to

Volume 1 • Issue 7

the dock. This means that those of you with camps in the marshes and swamps must keep your fish intact, though gutting is allowed. For the purpose of consumption at sea aboard the harvesting vessel, a person shall have no more than two pounds of finfish parts per person on board the vessel, provided that the vessel is equipped to cook such finfish and such finfish does not exceed applicable bag limits.

• Bank and surf anglers often use stringers and live baskets to hold their catch. If using a stringer, put the stringer through the jaw tissue and not the gills.

• If you use baskets, be aware that overcrowded fish can easily die.

Anglers with live wells on their boats should also be aware of this danger.

A bit of attention to details will ensure that fish stay fresh longer and taste better when cooked. It may take a few more minutes, but the result will be a more enjoyable and memorable trip.

Source: Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

TJN

JULY 2, 2009

PAGE 27

Here’s a handy guide to the public boat launches, marinas, and fishing guides in the area. Have fun! access to the Calcasieu River and Lake Charles.

• Old Highway 90, with access to the Sabine River Tributary.

• Westfork, with access to the Calcasieu River.

• Alligator Park, with access to Old River Slough, a tributary of the Sabine River.

• Intracoastal Park, with access to the Intracoastal Waterway.

• Prien Lake Park, with access to Prien Lake.

• White Oak Park, with access to the Calcasieu River.

• Anthony Ferry Road, with access to Houston River.

• LA 108, with access to Choupique Bayou.

• Riverside Park, with access to Prien Lake.

• Calcasieu Point Landing, with access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Lake Calcasieu.

• LaFleur (210) Park, with access to Prien Lake.

• Rossignol Road, with access to the Bell City Drainage Ditch.

• Lorrain Park, with access to Lacassine Bayou.

• Johnny Breaux Road, with access to the Vinton Drainage Ditch.

PUBLIC BOAT LAUNCHES

• Goodman Road, with access to English Bayou.

• Holbrook Park, with access to the west fork of the Calcasieu River.

• Indian Bluff, with access to Old River Slough, a tributary of the Sabine River.

• 1-10-Bridge Boat Launch, with

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JULY 2, 2009

• McCobbs Boat Launch, with access to the Calcasieu River.

• Moss Bloff/Theriot Road, with access to the Calcasieu River.

MARINAS (Full service marinas include boat launch, boat slip and fuel available.)

Bowtie Marina Boat slips, gasoline and diesel, full ship store, clean restrooms, mechanics available, full-service marina.

Douglas Shearman, owner 1245 Giovanni St. Lake Charles 70601 (337) 478-0130

• Nelson Road, with access to Black Bayou.

Volume 1 • Issue 7

Bridge Point Yacht Center Full-service marina, yacht repair Tony and John Giamis, owners 800 Mike Hooks Rd. Westlake 70669 (337) 436-0803 Nalmar Marina Boat slips, gasoline and diesel, grocery store, no boat launch.

Sweet Lake Land and Oil, owner 808 Mike Hooks Rd. Westlake 70669 (337) 494-1959

Hackberry Cajun Guide (Inland guide) Captain Freddie Beard PO Box 41 Hackberry 70645 (337) 762-3512 www.cajunguide.com

Hackberry Rod and Gun (Inland and offshore guide) Captain Buddy Oakes 485 Lake Breeze Hackberry 70645 (337) 762-3391 www.hackberryrodandgun.com

Hackberry Charters (Inland guide) Captain Mark Huse 289 Lake Breeze Hackberry 70645 (337) 762-3713 www.hackberrycharters.com

Reel Men Sports (Inland and near-coastal guide) Captain Buddy Allen Singletary PO Box 898 Lake Charles 70602 (337) 497-1029

Ron Begnaud’s Guide Service (Inland fly fishing guide) Captain Ron Begnaud 725 Iberville St. Lake Charles 70607 (337) 477-7584 www.redchaser.com TJN

Olmstead Shipyard, Inc. Boat slips, boat and propeller repair Eddie and Max Olmstead, owners 906 West Prien Lake Rd. Lake Charles 70601 (337) 477-3912 Spicer Bait and Tackle Full-service marina, tackle store on premises with live bait Marshal Spicer, owner 198 Bourgs Port Hackberry 70645 (337) 762-4418 (office) (337) 762-3170 (tackle store) FISHING GUIDES Big Lake Guide Service (Inland guide) Captains Jeff and Mary Poe 150 Junius Granger Rd. Lake Charles 70607 (337) 598-3268 www.biglakeguideservice.com Calcasieu Charter Service (Inland and offshore guide) Captain Erik Rue 210 Bank St. Lake Charles 70607 (337) 485-9499 www.calcasieucharters.com Corbello Guide Service (Inland and offshore guide) Captain Jack Corbello 206 Bank St. Lake Charles 70607 (337) 485-9499 Gotta Go Charters (Inland and offshore guide) Captain Sammie Faulk P.O. Box 4973 Lake Charles 70606 (337) 540-2050 Grosse Savanne Lodge (Inland guide) Karl Zimmerman or Olan Menard 1730 Big Pasture Rd. Lake Charles 70607 (337) 598-2357 www.grossesavanne.com

Volume 1 • Issue 7

There’s a new flavor in Southwest Louisiana!

It’s spicy and distinctive, and once you’ve tasted it, you’ll come back for more. It’s The Jambalaya News— a brand-new publication that celebrates life in this unique part of the country. It’s all about you!

The Jambalaya News is distributed throughout SWLA and

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Us Out Our issues are now online. www.thejambalayanews.com JULY 2, 2009

PAGE 29

By Kenneth Caruthers

When people go to the beach for summer vacation, they usually enjoy typical beach activities. Sure, making sand castles, swimming, boogie boarding, searching for seashells, and other common beach pastimes are fun; but there is something that is even more fun to do at the beach. That something is parasailing, and if you are ever given the opportunity to do it, do not pass it up. It is truly an experience that will never be forgotten.

As soon as I accepted an invitation in mid-May to go to Florida with my good friend Dietrich Jessen and his family, Dietrich and I immediately began looking into going parasailing there. We were so excited and pumped up about it that I think that is basically all Dietrich and I talked about for the rest of the month of May. We found a place called Radical Rides in Pensacola near where we were staying, and we decided to give them the thumbs up. They said that they were the best and cheapest parasailing place in Pensacola, and from what we found, they went the highest, too, at 1,400 feet in the air.

Heck, if I was going to go parasailing for the first time in my life, why not go as high as possible; the bigger the better, right? We left for Florida the day after my last final, the anticipation building.

When the day to go parasailing finally arrived, we were ready. The Florida weather was perfect—not a cloud in sight.

In the hours leading up to our scheduled time to go parasailing, I kept waiting for a feeling of nervousness to hit me. We were, after all, going 1,400 feet up in the air with PAGE 30

JULY 2, 2009

nothing but a giant parachute and a few strong cords keeping us up.

Strangely, I never felt the nervous feeling or the butterflies come. I do not know if it was because I was underestimating what being 1,400 feet in the air would be like, or if I was just feeling extremely courageous that day, but I was fine. I get more anxious about roller coasters, and I am pretty sure that none of the roller coasters I have ever been on go up that high.

When the time came, we headed off to Radical Rides. We checked in at their little shack, signed a couple of papers, applied our sunscreen, and picked up our life jackets. After that, we boarded the parasailing boat and met the crew. Our captain was very quiet and contained, but his helper was pretty much the opposite. He was a laid-back, go-with-the-flow kind of guy. “Someone on this boat has to be serious,” the captain said, referring to himself.

My fellow passengers for the day included Dietrich and his mom, and two other ladies we did not know.

The ladies told us that they got kicked out of the Hilton the previous night for partying a little too hard, but I did not pay attention to them long enough to hear the details of their story. I was too excited. I think Dietrich was the only passenger on the boat who had gone parasailing before. He had parasailed in Destin the

year before with his dad, but he said that they definitely did not go as high as we were about to go.

The ladies went up first, and Dietrich and I were on deck. After they landed safely back on the boat, it was our turn. The captain’s helper strapped us up and hooked us onto the parasail. Then the captain pressed on the gas, and we started hovering. Next thing we knew, we were up in the air. We got so high up that the people on the boat looked like tiny specks. The view was breathtaking. We could see all the boardwalks, beaches, and water below and around us. It was so quiet, peaceful, and relaxing up there. We could not hear anything other than the calm Gulf breeze. While we were up there, we kept joking about falling into the water and being attacked by sharks. Thankfully, neither one did happen. I do not know how long we stayed up there, but it felt like a good while.

As we started to make our decent, the captain lowered us really close to the water. We knew what was coming next—we were going to get dunked. He dropped us down into the water up to about our knees,

and then he quickly pulled us out.

Soon after that, we approached the boat, and the captain’s helper told us to stand up once we reached the boat so he could unhook us. Our adventure had unfortunately come to an end.

I will remember that day for a long time. I am still surprised that I did not feel nervous. If you are thinking about going parasailing, just go for it. It is something that should not be passed up.

Remember, you do not have to go 1,400 feet up in the air to have a great time. You can always go at a lower height. Besides, the excitement will take over, so just enjoy the ride.

Make sure to bring your camera; too, as there are a lot of great photo opportunities. Parasailing was one of the highlights of my summer. Make it yours!

Kenneth Caruthers will be entering his junior year at St. Louis Catholic High School. He writes for the American Press Expressions Page, and just returned from a weeklong journalism camp at LSU where he improved his journalism skills.

TJN

Kenneth Caruthers and Dietrich Jessen Volume 1 • Issue 7

By Lisa Yates

Major Archibald W. Butt

G

rowing up, George “Tony” Barbier III of Lake Charles was aware he had a relative who perished aboard the Titanic.

The story was told to him by his mother Katharine Lassiter Butt Barbier. It was her distant cousin Major Archibald W. Butt, who was traveling as a first class passenger aboard the Titanic when it sank the night of April 15, 1912.

When the 1997 blockbuster Titanic hit the theatres, Barbier decided to learn more about Maj. Butt.

“When the movie came out, and the exhibit, I really got into it,” he said. “I did research learning about him. I found out how well-known and important he was.”

A friend to two presidents Barbier discovered Major Archibald “Archie” Butt served as an influential military aide to two presidents: President Theodore Roosevelt and President William H. Taft. He also learned the Major developed a strong friendship with both men, but was especially close to President Taft who delivered the eulogy at Butt’s memorial service.

According to records from the National Cemetery, this is what the president said: “If Archie could have selected a time to die, he would have chosen the one God gave him,” Taft said, his voice broken with emotion.

Volume 1 • Issue 7

“His life was spent in self-sacrifice, serving others. His forgetfulness of self had become a part of his nature.

“Everybody who knew him called him Archie.

“I couldn’t prepare anything in advance to say here,” the president continued. “I tried, but I couldn’t. He was too near me. He was loyal to my predecessor, Mr. Roosevelt, who selected him to be military aide, and to me he had become as a son or a brother.”

Barbier said Butt’s health began to deteriorate in 1912, because of his attempts to remain neutral during a bitter personal quarrel between Roosevelt and Taft. So, Butt took six weeks’ leave from the White House and sailed to Europe with his friend Francis Millet, who was en-route to Rome on business at the American Academy which he directed.

They were returning to Washington on the Titanic.

The stereotypical Southern gentleman The man from Lake Charles said his distant relative was described as “the stereotypical Southern gentleman.” Barbier said Maj. Butt was tall, distinguished-looking and a style-setter for his generation.

“People looked to him for ways to do things,” he said. “Not only in the way he dressed, but also pro-

tocol for how to behave at state dinners and receptions. He wrote the book on protocol.”

His usefulness at official functions at the White House was legendary, according to Barbier.

“At one state dinner, Major Butt presented more than 1,000 people to President Taft in a single hour,” he said. “President Taft was a large man and would sometimes drift off to sleep at inopportune times. Maj. Butt would stand beside the president at these functions and keep him alert.”

In his research, Barbier ran across several accounts of Maj. Butt’s heroism aboard the Titanic.

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PAGE 31

For example, Marie Young of Washington reported in the April 20, 1912, edition of the Washington Herald: “I left the Titanic on the last boat. The last person on the Titanic to whom I spoke was ‘Archie’ Butt, and his good, brave face was smiling at me from the deck of the steamer was the last face I could distinguish as we left the steamer’s side.

stepped back, lifted his hat and smiled again. “‘Good-bye, Miss Young,’ he said, ‘luck is with you. Kindly remember me to the folks back home.’

“The boat was lowered to the water. As we pulled away, Archie was still standing at the rail looking down at me. His hat was raised, and the same brave smile was on his face.”

Barbier said his relative’s quick actions that night saved many passengers. Of course, Maj. Butt made sure that women President William H. Taft and Major Archibald W. Butt and children were rescued first.

“A man tried to get aboard one of the lifeboats and Maj. Butt pulled him out, telling him: ‘Women will be attended to first or I’ll break every damned bone in your body!’” he said.

Periodicals across the county, including the New York Times, paid tribute to Maj. Butt’s heroism. It was reported he “died like a soldier.” Sadly, Maj. Butt’s body was never recovered from the wreckage. He was 45 years old.

“Archie put me in a boat. He entered it with me, wrapped blankets around me and tucked me in as carefully and as courteously as though we were preparing for a motor ride. He did all of this with a smiling face as though death were far away instead of imminent.

“When he had carefully wrapped me up, he

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JULY 2, 2009

An uncanny resemblance In his collection of photographs, Barbier has a picture of Maj. Butt standing beside his friend, President Taft. Barbier bears an uncanny resemblance to his distant relative.

“My brother, Matt, actually looks more like him than I do,” he said.

Barbier also has in his possession a copy of an actual photograph taken aboard the Titanic before it sank. The picture shows several people

talking on the deck, one of whom is Maj. Butts.

“A preacher was crossing the channel between Southampton and Ireland,” he said. “He took the only pictures ever taken aboard the Titanic.

Later, he published a scrapbook of his photos.

This picture is from the book.”

Barbier, 53, manager of Coastal Welding Supply in Sulphur, has amassed an impressive collection of memorabilia related to his family history, including five models of the R.M.S. Titanic.

One is a Waterford Crystal replica. The other four are custom-made miniatures built to Barbier’s specifications by a model builder in California.

“Each model took about three or four months to build and each shows the Titanic in different stages as it is sinking,” he said. “The last model shows the Titanic as it is now – at the bottom of the ocean.”

The other Titanic models show in minute details what the largest ship in the world looked like in 1912. One of the models actually shows Maj. Butt on the deck of the Titanic, standing in the exact same spot he appears in the photograph with the other passengers.

Barbier said he researched the timeline of the sinking of the Titanic to find out what happened at each stage of the ship’s sinking. He wanted the models to be historically accurate.

“I found out which lifeboats were launched at what times; and, I had the models built around the timeline,” he said.

Volume 1 • Issue 7

A replica of the R.M.S. Titanic.

Robbie (Barbier) Guillory, front left, Katharine Lassiter (Butt) Barbier, George F. Barbier, Jr.; Desireé Danielle Moss, George “Tony” Barbier III, Katsie (Barbier) Fanelli.

Barbier also ordered special “water” for the models’ display.

“You can see the stuff underneath the water,” he said. “I wanted to make it look as real-looking as I could.”

Although this one-of-a-kind collection commemorates a tragic event, it is a part of Barbier’s family’s history he wants to preserve.

“I hope the younger ones in the family will appreciate it,” he said. “I will hand it down to them one day.”

One of Barbier’s relatives is already a collector of Titanic-related memorabilia.

“My cousin’s son is a big Titanic buff – Chad Carter of Slidell,” he said.

Ironically, the cousin is from Barbier’s father’s side of the family.

A night to remember Even though Maj. Archibald Butt was a major political force in 1912, and an honored Titanic hero, today he is hardly remembered. Many Titanic books scarcely mention him and most films ignore him entirely.

Barbier said Maj. Butt was not mentioned in the movie Titanic, but he was briefly mentioned in the 1958 film A Night to Remember.

“Kids go by the movies, they think it’s a real story – the story of Jack and Rose – but it’s not,” he said. “The good thing about the movies is they get kids interested in history. But, it’s the older movies that are more historically accurate.”

Barbier said he accompanied a group of students touring the Titanic exhibit, when it came to Lake Charles.

“My sister, Robbie Guillory, brought her class from Westlake High School,” he said.

Barbier said they discussed the exhibit, and then he bought the class

Volume 1 • Issue 7

T-shirts as souvenirs to remember the event. He said several books sold at the exhibit did mention Maj. Butt, including: The Titanic Experience, written by Beau Riffenburgh.

“His name is mentioned in several documents mentioned in the book,” he said. “The book includes copies of letters, which actually slip out. He is mentioned in several of these.”

A Titanic dinner party Just hours before the R.M.S. Titanic struck the iceberg, Maj. Butt and the other first class passengers, dined on multiple courses of elegantly prepared foods, accompanied with a variety of wines and liquors. A copy of the final first-class menu survived in the pocket of a passenger.

To commemorate Maj. Butt, whose story he wants others to embrace, Barbier and his family combined their culinary talents to recreate a Titanic dinner party. The party took place at his parents’ home recently.

Each family member prepared and served one dish from the nine courses that were served that night in the first class dining room.

“We each picked someone we wanted to portray and researched that particular person,” he said. “Between courses we took turns giving the history of the person we were portraying.”

Barbier said the dinner replicated that of what was offered to first class passengers. It was an a la carte meal served by participants dressed in period clothing – the women in Edwardian-style hats and the men in tuxedos.

Barbier’s father, George F. Barbier Jr., dressed as the ship’s captain, Edward J. Smith. He was responsible for the first course: Petite Quiche,

Mini Crab Cakes and Punch.

His sister Katsie Barbier Fanelli, and her husband Marcelo, hosted the event as Mr. and Mrs. George Widener – the actual hosts of the final dinner aboard the Titanic. The couple prepared the second course: Spring Vegetable Soup and Fresh Garden Salad.

Another sister Robbie Barbier Guillory, and her husband Steve, represented Mr. and Mrs. William E. Carter. They prepared the third course: Lobster Thermidor with Duchess Potatoes.

Barbier’s mother, Katharine Lassiter Butt Barbier, was the guest of honor at the dinner.

“My mother always had formal dinners with nice china, crystal and sterling,” he said. “Over the years, we had gotten away from having formal dinner parties. So we thought it would be something nice to do for our mother – have a formal dinner for her with a Titanic theme.”

His mother portrayed Lady DuffGordon; and she served the fourth course: Rose Water and Mint Sorbet.

(The recipe and instructions are included in this edition of The Jambalaya News on page 20.)

Rebecca Barbier Moss and Desireé Danielle Moss, prepared the entrée, the fifth course: Chicken Cordon Bleu and Premium Beef Brisket. They represented René Harris and Mahala Douglas from the Titanic dinner.

The sixth course: Fresh Spring Asparagus and Green Beans with Hollandaise, was prepared by Desireé Danielle Moss, who also researched Titanic passenger Helen Churchill Candee.

Barbier portrayed Maj. Archibald Butt at the dinner. He prepared the seventh course: Triple Chocolate Five Layer Cheesecake and Mini Cream Puffs with Sweet Cordials. He said the eighth course consisted of fresh fruits and cheeses, while the ninth course

was after dinner coffee, cigars, Port and cordials.

“We never used the same place setting twice,” he said.

In order to seat everyone in his family, Barbier placed two large dining tables together. He bought new linen for the tables to match the Edwardian china and Yugoslavian crystal used for the party. Also, he researched the flowers and arrangements used at the Titanic dinner party and recreated it for his family.

“We used all crystal and sterling; it was really done up nice,” he said.

They dined by candlelight just as the passengers aboard the Titanic.

While they dined, they listened to music which was a recording of sheet music from the original Titanic dinner. Barbier said he found a CD of the music online.

“It was a Ragtime-type of music,” he said.

Barbier said the family plans to make the Titanic dinner an annual event. He even ordered several new pieces for next year’s party.

“I searched online and finally found a 13-foot table, which will seat 12 comfortably,” he said.

Barbier also learned of a place in England where he could order a complete set of china with the same pattern used aboard the Titanic. He already had some of the pieces in his collection.

“I’m ordering a place setting for 12 for the next one,” he said.

Three short years from now, in 2012, it will be the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the most famous ship that ever sailed, the Titanic. It really is a no-brainer that the Barbier family will be remembering their heroic ancestor – Maj. Archibald “Archie” Butt – and keeping his memory alive for future generations. TJN

JULY 2, 2009

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r Shoumake n o d n a r B By

High School Football 2009: Get Ready!

It’s hot. I know.

But the release by the Louisiana High School Athletic Association of the football schedules for the 2009 season ought to give you shivers of excitement.

At first glance, the effects of this year’s reclassification process on some districts are plainly evident. While

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some districts remain relatively unchanged from last season, others, like the former District 4-3A, have been completely altered. For starters, the local 3A district got a name change; it’s now 5-3A. More importantly, though, is the makeup of the district.

Longtime district staples Jennings and St. Louis moved up in class to 4A while Iota’s brief stint in the district ends with a move back down to Class 2A. That leaves Iowa and Westlake as the two remaining local 3A teams.

The LHSAA, in trying to divide up the 12 3A teams in Southwest Louisiana, used Interstate 10 as a geographic boundary line and thus

moved Iowa and Westlake into a district with Church Point, Crowley, Eunice and Northwest (located near Opelousas).

Westlake comes out of this reorganization the worst, having to travel to Eunice, Northwest and Church Point this season, roughly 470 miles round-trip to the three schools.

The local Class 4A district also changes names and members this season. District 5-4A (formerly 4-4A) loses LaGrange and Eunice, but picks up Jennings and St. Louis.

While all of the recent changes may take a little getting used to, there’s still lots to look forward to this football season.

FIVE ALIVE The new-look District 5-4A promises to be an exciting one with the addition of Jennings and St. Louis to the mix of DeRidder, Sam Houston and Washington-Marion. What makes this district really exciting, though, is what looks to be an excellent crop of quarterbacks returning this season.

Sam Houston senior Orlan Lockhart led the district last season with 1,686 passing yards and 14 touchdowns in the regular season. He also rushed for 455 yards and 17 touchdowns. A repeat of Lockhart’s efforts from last season will definitely keep Sam Houston near the top of the district heap.

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Washington-Marion’s Dwight Barker didn’t start at quarterback until later in the season, but he was impressive in that short time, passing for 920 yards and five touchdowns.

Barker was recently named Offensive MVP at the Southern University 7on-7 tournament, which the Charging Indians won. Not coincidentally, Barker’s teammate, Keavian Fontenot was named the Defensive MVP at the tournament.

Washington-Marion’s performance at Southern hints at what looks to be a resurgent year and places the Indians squarely in the conversation for a possible district title run.

DeRidder’s Sam Peterson threw for 1,136 yards and 13 touchdowns last season and returns this year to help the Dragons reach the playoffs for the first time since 1997.

A FEW GAMES TO WATCH September 4, LaGrange at Washington-Marion: It’s not just the fact that many students from the old Lake Charles-Boston High School (rivals of W-M) now attend LaGrange that makes this game so intriguing.

It’s the fact that both teams have excelled in 7-on-7 competitions this summer and both teams are returning key components to their offenses.

LaGrange, which returns to Class 5A, Louisiana’s highest classification, for the first time since 2001, brings back its leading passer and rusher from last season. Derek Bellard passed for 1,026 yards and 13 touchdowns and Darius Edwards rushed for 824 yards and 10 touchdowns for the Gators last season. LaGrange recently finished second to host Evangel at the Eagles’ 7-on-7 tournament, beating the perennial state power once in the process.

September 11, Eunice at Jennings, Sulphur at Evangel: The Jennings-Eunice rivalry is one of the oldest rivalries in the state, dating back to the mid-1920s, and it’s also one of the most exciting. The level of play always rises when these two teams meet, and this year will be no different. If you’re up for a trip to Shreveport, the game between the Tors and Eagles should be a good one. Sulphur’s defense is always salty and could make things interesting if it can slow down Evangel’s high-powered offense.

September 18, Sam Houston at Westlake: The yearly West Fork Classic is an entertaining grudge match between the West

Calcasieu Parish schools. Westlake has been near the top of the heap in 3A the last couple of seasons but graduated much of the squad that carried the Rams to the state championship game in 2007. With Orlan Lockhart under center, this maybe is the year Sam Houston reclaims bragging rights.

October 2, Evangel at Barbe: A marquee matchup of two state heavyhitters. Barbe graduated much of its star power from last year’s 5A semifinalist team, but still brings back a quality football team led by senior Kevin Berard. Evangel, which looks to return to the national prominence it once enjoyed half a decade ago, features another crop of talented athletes led by quarterback David Dee Duron.

It will be the second time Evangel will have faced a Southwest Louisiana foe.

Sulphur travels to Shreveport to play the Eagles on Sept. 11.

November 6, Barbe at Sulphur: The Game. Barbe doesn’t like Sulphur. Sulphur doesn’t like Barbe.

It’s the last game of the regular season and it could, quite possibly, determine the District 3-5A championship.

Expect a beyond-capacity crowd as these two rivals battle it out. Last season, the Bucs won on a late touchdown run by current Texas Tech freshman Ernest Celestie. The Tors, to be sure, are counting the days until they can avenge last year’s close loss.

ABOUT ME I am very excited to be back writing about sports again, I’ll tell you that up front. I was a sports writer and copy editor for over seven years at the American Press and now I’m proud to have the opportunity to continue to write for The Jambalaya News. In this issue, I’m talking about high school football, but that won’t always be the case. I plan on incorporating McNeese, LSU and anything else that may be interesting and make a good story. I am also on the lookout for human-interest features with a sports twist. I am married, own a home and am a Pisces. I hope you enjoy this column and make it a regular read.

Brandon Shoumaker

Brandon Shoumaker is a graduate of McNeese State University and has covered sports for more than seven years for various publications. Coaches or parents with story tips may contact Brandon at bshoumaker@yahoo.com or send him a message on Twitter (@bshoumaker).

TJN

Every Monday night, feast on juicy mouth watering Prime Rib. Rubbed with our own mix of seasonings and roasted to perfection.

Enjoy a 8, 12, or 16 oz. Prime Rib with aujus and horseradish cream sauces, a loaded baked potato and mixed vegetables.

Come early, supplies are limited.

901 Ryan St., Lake Charles • 439-2054 • pujostreet.com Volume 1 • Issue 7

JULY 2, 2009

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U A B A O F N LY

BOATING/FISHING - WORD SEARCH A N C S O S A P D

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The Dot Game Players take turns connecting two dots. When a player completes a box, they write

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their initial in the box. When all dots are connected, the player with the most boxes wins.

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Volume 1 • Issue 7

Killin’ Time Crossword

MONDAY NIGHTS: Abita Beer Night

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS: Mondo Martini Night

THURSDAY NIGHTS: Be Well Night

Fri. July 3 @ 10:00 SONS IN CHAOS & MUCH MORE! Sat. July 4 @ 9:00 ASHES OF BABYLON, LIVE OAK DECLINE, FRESH NECTAR, BARISAL GUNS & MORE! Thurs. July 9 @ 9:00 DOG MEN POETS (from San Antonio, Tx.) Fri. July 10 @ 9:00 THE WINTER SOUNDS (from Athens, Ga.) & MORE. Sat. July 11 @ 9:00 WENDY COLONA (from Austin, Tx.) Fri. July 17 @ 9:00 PAPER PLAINS & MUCH MORE! Sat. July 18 @9:00 THE GILLS (from Pensacola, Fl.) & MUCH MORE!

Crossword puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.com (http://www.bestcrosswords.com). Used with permission.

Volume 1 • Issue 7

Fri. July 24 @ 9:00 MYNAMEISJOHNMICHAEL (from New Orleans, La.) w/ RED LETTER REVERB JULY 2, 2009

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Volume 1 • Issue 7

Brief Encounters

By Leslie Berman

Three musical events I recently attended in Lake Charles and Sulphur highlight the variety of local, regional, and national acts that the assiduous music fan can find playing around our area, in all sorts of venues.

Zydeco Trouble at the Zydeco Brunch Radio station KZWA’s Diva D (better known as Darlene Wesley when she’s at her day job, working for the City of Lake Charles) hosted the first Vibe 105 Zydeco Brunch at the Blue Duck Café on Sat. morning, May 30.

The Blue Duck provided the chicken and sausage gumbo, cornbread, and red beans and rice for a nominal price. The cover charge was even more nominal, and bought you a seat or a piece of crowded dance floor real estate to two-step along to the music of Diva’s cousin, Curley Taylor. He’s a young, handsome, and talented accordionist/songwriter/vocalist, who led Zydeco Trouble, his hot band, through taut sets of his own and well-loved zydeco and popular tunes zydecized for a live remote broadcast.

Harold Guillory, former host of Louisiana Zydeco Live, a pre-Hurricane cable television dance show that was zydeco’s answer to Soul Train, not only got up on the floor with several lucky women (including Marilyn Cox, who cut a rug with hubby Senator Jimmy as well), but also sat in on froittoir (rubboard) and muscular tenor lead vocals for a soulful and sensuous version of Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come.”

Blue Duck owner and Bad Roads guitarist Briant Smith allowed himself to be coaxed onstage as well.

In a single song, he proved that Zydeco Trouble’s versatile players have other musical tricks hidden up

Volume 1 • Issue 7

their short shirtsleeves as they backed his expressive and familiar blues solos.

There’s always blues on Friday nights at the Blue Duck, but zydeco music makes the rounds downtown on fewer occasions. This was an A+ brunch date; Diva and KZWA intend to serve seconds and more, beginning with Keith Frank. If you don’t know how to dance the Zydeco, try some of Harold Guillory’s Louisiana Zydeco Live videos on youtube, starting with this one: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xB9SJ3kH3Fw&fe ature=related.

tained behind Plexiglas) and Grant Tracy (highly tasty bass), and sweetened by Roger Ray’s clean and efficient lead and steel guitar solos.

Boland’s songs were familiar to me from a few rounds on country music radio, but the audience knew them all, singing or mouthing along verse chorus verse second ending, and shouting out encouragement between songs, nearly going crazy when he sang “Sons and Daughters of Dixie,” a paean to the survivors of Katrina. Comal County Blue is Boland’s latest release, which you can find at www.thestragglers.com.

Jason Boland and the Stragglers; Brad Broussard and Bliss Bujard Opening for nationally touring country artist Jason Boland and the Stragglers at Wayne & Layne’s Deli in Sulphur on June 5, were local country singersongwriters Brad Broussard and Bliss Bujard (who moonlights as a Vinton Town Councilmember!), with Mike Alexander playing plastic tubs and lobster pot lids as a drumkit.

While we waited for Boland’s roadies to set up, and the band to come in from the bus, I chatted with Alexander about his rough and ready “acoustic” drum set (which actually got the job done, oddly stylishly), and tried to corner Fu Manchu-bearded Deli co-owner Wayne for an interview. (He said he wanted to chat, but I never could get him to stand still for two minutes!) Maybe next time.

Alexander told me he’d been making a living as a musician for nearly 20 years out of Lake Charles, but said that even at the best of times (and these ain’t them) he couldn’t rely on local work only, so he’s gone on tour with acts like Mike Zito, David St. Romain, and Chris Harper, whenever they’ve called for him.

At the moment, his steady gig is with local blues, R&B and pop vocalist Laurel (Barineau), but he’s always available to play other styles, as he did that night with Bliss and Brad.

And then sweet-faced and likeable Jason Boland’s Oklahoma/Texas country rock band dropped in and wailed, sometimes pursuing the Charlie Daniels’ fiddle up the devil model (which young Noah Jeffries did ecstatically, without self-consciousness), sometimes leaning heavier on the lyrical alt.country rock back story, propelled by the rock-steady rhythm section of Brad Rice (drums so powerful they had to be con-

Pastiche at Church of the Good Shepherd Finally, I dropped into the third of Good Shepherd’s Summer Music Festival XXII’s events on June 16, and heard “Dancing On The Edge,” a program selected by the self-described “whimsical” classical ensemble, Pastiche, now a quintet of McNeese music faculty members, including pianists Fred Sahlmann (McNeese professor emeritus and Good Shepherd’s choir director) and Lina Morita, Jan Fillmore Scott, clarinet, Dave Scott, trumpet, and Lonny Benoit, drums and percussion.

For this concert, Pastiche built a program of dance works or dance-themed pieces. I missed Don Freund’s “Rough and Rumble,” and half of Paul Bowles’ “Music for a Farce,” but what I did hear of the Bowles, and what I heard in the Igor Stravinsky “collage” of dances that followed, which included a March, a Tango, a Polka, and, ending with a flourish, a Gallop, was energetic and charming.

Benoit’s use of a wide range of percussive instruments and his gentle explanatory introductions grounded the group, but all were in full gallop throughout “Partly Sunny,” their standard humorous closer and a commissioned work, that’s a witty take on “You Are My Sunshine,” interrupted by musical quotes and mild jokes, and played in a light spirit that always leaves audiences feeling good to go.

The group’s next to closing number was one of five commissioned works played that night – an arrangement of pieces from Caroline, Or Change, the musical written by Lake Charles’s own Pulitzer prizewinner Tony Kushner. His musical partner, Jeanine Tesori, composed the works, which were arranged for Pastiche’s unusual combination of instruments by Rick Bassett, orchestrator for the Broadway production.

Like the best of Pastiche’s commissions, “Suite From Caroline, Or Change” allows the unusual ensemble of clarinet, trumpet, piano and percussion to make from their quirky component parts, a sound that’s bigger, fuller, and absolutely right for the music they’re interpreting. I don’t know how they do it. It must be magic. Write if you get a different inkling.

You can e-mail me at leslie@leslieberman.com.

TJN

JULY 2, 2009

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Note the vivid iridized rainbow of colors created with metal salts fired onto glass.

By Jeanne Owens, Charleston Gallery and Antiques As a non-believer, I always thought Carnival Glass was just a tad tacky— usually filled with sticky ribbon candy, wilting gardenias, or lime sherbet and 7-Up punch. But I’m a convert.

Carnival Glass, originally made to mimic expensive Tiffany glass, now has a status of its own with collectors lusting over it, waging auction wars over it, blogging, cataloguing, theorizing, and scrutinizing it. And you probably have a piece of it somewhere and may not realize its value.

Ancient Roman glass had iridescence, but glassmakers like Tiffany and Steuben “re-invented” it in the late 1800s, making stunning, pricey signed pieces. However, thousands of lessexpensive pieces of poor man’s Tiffany or luster glass were produced between 1905 and 1930 by dozens of companies who vied to capture the consumer’s whim.

Like jazz and skyscrapers, iridescent glass is an American invention, but was made in England, Europe, Central and South America, India, China and Australia. It was the last quality, hand-shaped glass mass produced in America and is now appreciated for its glassmakers’ skill.

Unfortunately, though, the Great Depression crashed the glass market and left thousands of pieces sitting in factory warehouses. Some were given away as carnival prizes and in oatmeal boxes. Fenton is the last remaining manufacturer, but you can tell the difference between old and new pieces.

You have to hold an antique piece in your hand to appreciate the original, heavy, glistening Carnival.

Hand-shaped Carnival Glass has a pressed colored glass base sprayed on the outside with metallic salts, then fired to produce rich, pearly and glistening ribbons of color. The result is a PAGE 40

JULY 2, 2009

mixture of deep marigolds, aquas, greens, purples, coppery swirls and glossy rainbows.

The dominating color, not the iridized colors, is what identifies a piece of Carnival Glass. To determine the base color of a piece, hold it up to a strong light source. Sometimes it is very difficult to determine the base color, but that is one important factor in determining a piece’s value. Like baseball cards, the rare ones bring in the most cash.

Marigold was the first and by far the most common color, and actually has a clear base; the iridescent spray makes the color ranges from champagnes to coppery amber. Carnival connoisseurs identify dozens of colors with names like pumpkin marigold, black amethyst, and amberina.

Opalescent glass was created by putting bone ash into the molten glass mix; the edges turned a milky white color. Some opalescence shows up only when hit by certain fluorescent lights or daylight. Just a few of the color groups produced in original carnival glass include amethyst, peach, frosty pastels, ice pastels, and a very rare red.

The “more is better” attitude prevailed, and Carnival Glass was made in about any item imaginable—the expected pitchers, tumblers, sugars and creamers, butter dishes, bowls, vases, and decanters, but also banana boats, bon bons, hatpin holders, pickle casters, cookie jars, powder jars, paper weights, money banks, hair receivers, even spittoons. The list goes on and on, including sub categories like bud vases, funeral vases, jack-in-the-pulpit vases, rose bowls—thousands of pieces that brightened the heavy Edwardian and Victorian décor of the day and heavy hearts of the Depression era.

A general rule of thumb in spotting the old pieces is that they were made in three molds, and the newer ones in two.

Look at the mold lines on and around a piece to decide how many separate pieces make up the whole.

Older Carnival Glass also has a heavier, richer feel and texture in the hand than new; likewise, the iridescence is deeper and more variegated.

To identify your Carnival Glass, first determine its maker. The bulk was produced by five American companies — Fenton, which was the first in 1905, and Northwood, Imperial, Millersburg and Dugan. Other familiar American names are Cambridge, Fostoria, Heisey, and Anchor-Hocking among many others.

Most old pieces were marked with paper labels, usually long gone, and Fenton never impressed their mark on anything before 1971.

New trademarks mimic old ones and are intended to fool buyers as is true in the china and porcelain trade.

Invest in a book like David Doty’s New Field Guide to Carnival Glass for 2008 or spend time on a Web site such as to learn what to look for.

The pattern of the glass also determines value, and there are about 2,000 of them. Just to give an idea, there are at least six peacock variations, including peacocks with urns, peacocks at fountains, peacocks on a fence, peacocks with tails, plain pea-

A raspberry marigold pitcher that, unfortunately, is lowered in value because it is chipped.

Volume 1 • Issue 7

cocks. Some experts are intimidating because they seem to recognize all patterns and variations. However, if you are like me and need a little help, a good Web site like www.ddoty.com defines colors, patterns, marks, and— most important—prices.

So, just how much is your piece of Carnival Glass worth? As with all antiques, it varies depending on many factors; Old Carnival Glass ranges anywhere from about $15 to $15,000.

I have an incredibly beautiful raspberry pattern marigold pitcher that I thought was going to pay for my child’s ivy league education, but because it is marigold—most common—and it has a slight chip on the bottom, it might pay for one textbook.

On the other hand, an aqua bowl I found at a garage sale (probably the very one my grandmother poured malted milk balls in at Thanksgiving) may be worth upwards of $7,000 because it turns out to be opalescent and is one of the rarest patterns in aqua ice—peacocks on a fence.

Also, where you live affects price.

The Midwestern states abound with it, so it costs less. In the South, it is regarded highly, but in New York, many people might have never heard of it.

If you want to start a collection, start with the least expensive until you become knowledgeable. You might think Carnival Glass is gorgeous in its own right and you’ll join one of the hundreds of Carnival Glass clubs you can Google online. Or you might think like I once did that it’s, well, just plain tacky. Decide if you would be willing to pay just one dollar for it; if not, then don’t buy it no matter how much the salesperson tells you it’s worth. Worth is based on taste, trends, and what collectors will pay. TJN Just to give an idea of price variances, note the wide range of approximate prices for one of the most popular patterns of Grape and Cable bon bon bowls in different colors: Amethyst/Purple Amethyst/Black Aqua Aqua Opal Blue Clambroth Green Marigold Peach Opal Teal Vaseline Opal Volume 1 • Issue 7

$150 $350 $1,000 $4,000 $100 $45 $125 $40 $13,000 (Yikes!) $260 $425 JULY 2, 2009

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By Mary Louise Ruehr

For the Armchair Traveler: Stories Set in India Three recent novels that I thoroughly enjoyed all happen to be set in India. But they could not be more different from each other.

First published in Great Britain, East of the Sun by Julia Gregson is now being published on this side of the Pond. It has already been named Romantic Novel of the Year by the Romantic Novelists’ Association. But don’t think of it as a romance novel; I don’t. There are love stories, yes, but really, it’s a wonderful, old-fashioned novel about friendship, relationships,

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and coming-of age, set against a historic backdrop (It’s the era of Gandhi; the people of India are displaying their contempt for the British, and the Muslims and Hindus can’t get along), and it’s a nice, long-enough-to-livewith-these-characters-awhile read.

The story begins in London in 1928. Viva Holloway, age 25, has been hired as a chaperone to accompany three young people to India, where Viva grew up. One is a girl engaged to marry an English military captain serving in India — a man she barely

knows. She is accompanied by her best friend and designated bridesmaid, who secretly has no intention of returning to England and to her mother, “who could be mean in several languages.” The third is a troubled 16year-old whose aunt describes him as “a difficult boy.”

First, we take the two-week sea voyage to India with the characters on their boat, which is like a mystical world of its own: “When Viva looked up, the moon was chasing their boat, spinning a faint golden mist over the haze of stars.”

When they get to their destination, they discover that India isn’t quite the dream they’d imagined: “Well, the heat for one thing. You have never, ever felt anything like it in England, it’s like being clubbed over the head sometimes, the flies, appalling poverty, but if you love it, as I do, it gets to you, it bores its way into your soul,” Viva explains.

This is the kind of book I always hope to find. The writing is lovely, and the characters, though not fully developed, are likable. When I got to page

three, I wrote in my notes, “I may fall in love with this book.” And I did. It was just a pleasure.

For a more traditionally literary read, try The Weight of Heaven by Thrity Umrigar. Michigan residents Ellie Benton and her husband, Frank, are trying to survive the sudden death of their 7-year-old son in 2006. When Frank’s boss offers him an opportunity to head the company’s new factory in India, Ellie sees it as “a chance to save her marriage,” to get away from constant reminders of their boy’s death.

A year later, we find that they’ve settled into their life in India. Ellie loves the place: “India fit Ellie like a garment cut to size.” Frank is “constantly confused and repelled” by it.

“For all practical purposes, Frank lived in a different India than she did.”

A collision of class and culture begins at the factory, which has labor troubles, and the union organizer is found dead. Work stress and personal stress — he still blames his wife for his son’s death — are getting to Frank; the only joy he finds is spending time with his servant’s young son, who reminds him of the boy he lost. A metaphorical boulder starts rolling down that mountain of conflict and oh, you can just see disaster coming — but it takes a turn.

The writing is beautiful: “A particularly rude clap of thunder shattered the cocoon of mindlessness that she had built for herself and jolted her back into the world.” And Ellie describes India: “This was a country where the lines between metaphors and reality, fact and fiction, were virtually nonexistent because strange, improbable things happened all the time.”

Part of the book is romantic, showing how three very different couples deal with their relationships. Part is contemplative; part will touch your social consciousness; part is a thriller.

There is gentle love; there is raw, horVolume 1 • Issue 7

clever: “I used my time at the tea shop … to spy on every customer at every table, and overhear everything they said. I decided this was how I would keep my education going forward.”

He learns to drive a car and to be a mechanic, and uses his skills to climb out of poverty. Then his family comes calling and demands his salary.

He doesn’t just drive a car; he must perform the other duties of a servant, including “playing cricket with any brat in the household who wanted to play — and letting him win, handsomely.” He poses the question: “Do we loathe our masters behind a facade of love — or do we love them

rendous grief; there is madness. It’s a powerful, lyrical tragedy.

Now, switch gears — all the gears you can find — because The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga is nothing like most books you’ve ever read. This winner of the prestigious Man Booker Prize is now in paperback. The entire book takes the form of a letter Balram is writing to the premier of China, in which Balram describes his life and defends the actions he has taken — such as murder.

The son of a rickshaw driver, Balram grew up in extreme poverty, and some of the scenes he depicts are most unpleasant. Balram is often disrespectful and severe, but we come to understand a bit of what drives him.

As a child in school, he is praised for his intelligence and is referred to as the white tiger, “the rarest of animals — the creature that comes along only once in a generation.”

His education is halted when his parents take him out of school and indenture him with a local tea shop owner to pay their debt. But he’s

Copyright (c) 2009 Mary Louise Ruehr.

behind a facade of loathing?”

Balram is occasionally funny, often irreverent, and bordering on insane. But he is absolutely fascinating. I wasn’t sure about the book at first because of its unique rhythm, but it didn’t take long before I was under the spell of Balram’s story, and I could not put it down.

All three of these books have adult situations and language, but I’m reasonably prudish, and they didn’t bother me. More suggestions: Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts and Q & A by Vikas Swarup, on which the movie Slumdog Millionaire was based.

Save the Children’s Museum Fund

Mary Louise Ruehr is the Books Editor for the Record-Courier in Ravenna, Ohio. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Kent State University. Mary Louise is interested in all subjects and has many favorite authors, including Pearl S. Buck, James Michener, and P.G. Wodehouse, as well as mystery writers Sue Grafton and Janet Evanovich. She blogs at http://blogs.dixcdn.com/shine_a_light/ and you can write to her at Books@recordpub.com. TJN

0 0 0 , 50

$4

Devastated by a recent fire, the Children’s Museum needs your help to reopen. The goal is $450,000.

So far, $86,916.57 has been raised! The museum would like to thank all of you who have contributed, including the following: Prien Lake Elementary St. John's Elementary A.A. Nelson Elementary Combre Fondel Elementary Westwood Elementary Vincent Settlement Elementary Dolby Elementary Henry Heights Elementary Lebleu Settlement Elementary South Beauregard Elementary Frasch Elementary Brentwood Elementary T.H. Watkins Elementary Barbe Elementary First Methodist Day School Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic School St. Margaret's Catholic School McNeese State University Psi Chi Chapter SWLA Convention & Visitors Bureau

Iggy the Iguana says: Thank you for your support, and I look forward to seeing all of you in my new home!

7 5 .

916

, 6 8 $

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der useum n e l l n E dren's M a D By e Chil of th r Right away you have o t c the Nickelodeon formula: Parents Dire Our Vacation Homes are scattered throughout the Island offering a variety of choices from Waterfront and Water view, to "In the Pines" homes for Birding. We have several Canal front homes for boaters and fishing. Several homes are Pet Friendly.

Our Condominiums include units at Holiday Isle, Sandcastle, Pass Chateau Harbor, The Beach Club, The Inn at Dauphin Island, Surf Club, and The Fish Camps (some with dockage).

ACP Real Estate, Inc. Dauphin Island, Alabama Mobile & Baldwin Counties Toll Free: 866-861-3311 www.acpinfo.com

Hotel For Dogs Nickelodeon DVD 2009 Andi and Bruce are brother and sister orphans, living in a foster home with two parents who themselves never grew up. Lisa Kudrow of TV’s Friends plays the their foster mom. In their old age (around 30ish), she and her hubby are still trying to be rock and roll stars, even though she can’t sing and he can’t play guitar.

are ridiculous, it’s all about the kids. In this case, the kids are loveable but they steal, they get in trouble. Most importantly, they love dogs. The star dog is named Friday. He’s a mutt that these two orphans have been smuggling through foster homes for the past few years, stealing food for him and keeping him safe.

Along the way, they pick up three more dogs, which live in an abandoned hotel. Andi and Bruce start fixing up the old hotel, giving shelter to more and more dogs and meeting some human friends along the way.

Thanks to Bruce’s mechanical genius and an endless supply of gadgets, the

Real Estate Sales • Vacation Rentals Property Management

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dogs live like royalty, much better than the orphan kids taking care of them.

Bruce even sets up a fake car with a fan so they can hang their heads out the window and let the wind blow.

And that’s about all you need to know, because anyone could have written the rest of this movie. Kids will love it; parents will find it tedious. But if I know parents, they will rent it for their kids. Parents, watch this movie with your kids and discuss it. Don’t miss this opportunity!!

Be forewarned. Everything about Hotel for Dogs is caricature and gross exaggeration. That would be OK, but the plot is centered around the very real problem of animal control. In our own parish, for example, 6,000 stray dogs and cats were put down in 2008.

(Now you know why spaying your dog or cat is so important!) None of this is discussed in Hotel for Dogs. In this movie, staged in a big city, a few kids are putting up enough dogs in their hotel to put the dogcatchers out of work. If only it were that easy in real life!

Oh, and if your small child watches this movie, please tell them that not all dogcatchers are cruel animal haters.

They just might get that impression from this film. To its credit, this film does end up with the community coming forward to help the kids, creat-

ing what is essentially a glorified nokill animal shelter. Tell your kids what a no-kill animal shelter is, as well as animal adoption programs. We have them here in Calcasieu Parish.

Discussion guidelines Momma, why doesn’t anyone want to help Andi and Bruce take care of all the dogs?

Because, Braden, a lot of people think pets are easy to own. The dogs have lots of puppies and then there are even more dogs that no one wants.

That’s why the dogcatchers, who are really nice people, would like for the owners to help their dogs to not have so many puppies.

Daddy, how come no one wants to be Andi and Bruce’s parents? Don’t grownups like kids?

Well, Brianna, not all children are as blessed as you. Some adults are really kids that never grew up, like Andi and Bruce’s foster parents. Someday you’ll be a grownup, and you’ll have a chance to be a good parent to your kids.

See? Isn’t that easy? Hint: Ditch the nose ring and don’t have a beer in your hand during this discussion. Real kids are much better at detecting dog doodoo than the kids in this movie.

Local resources for shelters and pet adoption, spaying and neutering: • SWLA Humane Society — www.swlahumanesociety.com • 4 Paws Society inc. — www.4pawssocietyinc.com • Hobo Hotel — www.hobohotelforcats.com • Calcasieu Parish Animal Shelter — rcavenaugh@cppj.net

• Animal Angels — happipudikat@yahoo.com • Sulphur Animal Control — hcaruth@sulphur.org • DeQuincy Animal Services — kkcdgrams@aol.com Animal Care and Concern Corp

TJN

T

o establish and promote a strong sense of community pride by preserving our past for our future generations. We will make our patrons aware of Webster Parish’s historical assets and significance by promoting, teaching, involving, and displaying history in many unique ways. This will be not only for our community but for others outside of our area.

116 Pearl St, Minden, LA 71055 (318) 377-3002 www.museuminminden.blogspot.com

Volume 1 • Issue 7

JULY 2, 2009

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Battlestar Galactica’s Richard Hatch Ensures First LC Sci-Fi Convention’s Success

By Leslie Berman

“I like aliens just as much as anybody else,” said Richard Hatch, actor/director/lecturer/teacher/relationship coach. “But I think that the series was trying to do something deeper than the ‘alien of the week’ formula allows.”

Hatch was referring to “Battlestar Galactica’s” second incarnation at Condulac, Lake Charles’ first science fiction fan convention, held at the

Richard Hatch

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Enos Derbonne Recreational Center on June 13 and 14.

Hatch, the only member of the cast of “Battlestar Galactica mach II” (playing Tom Zarek) to have been a member of the cast of the original 1978 series (playing Captain Apollo), spoke about his acting career. It stretches from 1970s-era appearances on “All My Children” and “The Streets of San Francisco” through 1980s appearances on “The Love Boat,” “Dynasty,” and “Murder She Wrote,” to 1990s roles on “Baywatch,” and the two Battlestar series, where he played very different roles, both of which characters he feels were heroes.

His earlier character, Captain Apollo, whom Hatch played for 22 episodes in 1978 and 1979 in the original series, “was a traditional hero,” Hatch said. “He was a loyal son, straightforward, compassionate, operating by the book, honorable, with a lot of heart. He was a natural leader,” Hatch went on, correcting me for considering his two Battlestar characters

as fundamentally different as light and darkness.

“But Tom Zarek was also a hero,” Hatch said firmly about the more complex character he portrayed for 22 episodes over five years during the reimagined Battlestar series.

“He was a fallen idealist who fought for human rights, and ultimately paid with 25 years in prison for his pains. Then he was reborn on the Galactica, where he worked his way up the political ladder in order to continue to fight the good fight,” Hatch explained. “But he was thwarted – elections were rigged, and his opponents were totally unwilling to be fair.”

Ultimately, the re-imagined “Battlestar Galactica” was about human beings who were flawed, had major issues to deal with, and in the post-911 scenario were all struggling to survive, while the leadership acted out many of the issues we were struggling with and dealing with in the real world. “It was a show with greater complexity than the earlier series, because the studios had

Bessette Realty, Inc. Phil and Lauren, you have given me the perfect tool for relocation.

I have wished for a way to express the personality of Southwest Louisiana for years. The warmth, charm, and caring of our people for one another is not easily conveyed in a few words. The beauty of our area, the cultural richness and the zest of our food and humor abound in the pages of your magazine. The Jambalaya News captures all of these features within its covers and serves it up as spicy as the dish for which it takes its name. Congratulations on a job superbly done. This will be an integral part of my relocation kits from now on.

— Derenda Grubb - CENTURY 21 Bessette Realty, Inc. (337) 842-2696 • www.derenda.com

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Costumed warriors at Condulac decided that audiences would actually come along for the drama, for the shades of gray, instead of the black and white, good versus evil of the 1970s show,” Hatch concluded.

During his numerous appearances at Condulac, Hatch signed autographs, took photos with fans, spoke to groups and individuals movingly about the craft of acting, and showed some trailers and show reels for an as-yet unmade sci-fi series he’s written, tentatively titled “War On Magellen.”

Hatch proved that he is far more than just another pretty face. He spoke about subjects ranging from the spiritual component of acting to the need to work through your fears in order to reach the central core of meaning in anything you do. He assessed Hollywood’s effect on public opinion, and its adaptation to changes in social and political climates. In an animated and intense acting workshop, Hatch closed out his Condulac appearance down to the wire, racing out to catch his plane, this time without benefit of a helicopter ride.

International Star Wars 501st Legion Hatch wasn’t the only attraction at Condulac. To open the convention, Hatch was helicoptered in to the Recreation Center’s sports field, where he participated in a ceremony with costumed clone troopers from Louisiana’s Bast Alpha Garrison, a member group of the International Star Wars 501st Legion, “The World’s Definitive Imperial Costuming Organization.”

The 501st’s members made the trip to Lake Charles to wear and discuss their costumes, to mingle with others and to spread interest in celebrating the Star Wars movies by wearing costumes while supporting their communities with charitable and volunteer work.

During the Con, Legionnaires showed off their costumes and their varied methods of battle, and discussed Volume 1 • Issue 7

several techniques for making standard costumes more realistic (i.e., more like those worn in the Star Wars movies).

The elaborate and detailed work involved in making the costume pieces was of interest to many attendees, who took photos with costumed characters such as Anakin Skywalker as a fundraising activity.

One costumed fan, an engineer who’d traveled west with the Legion, told me that he wasn’t yet eligible to become a member of the 501st because his costumes weren’t up to the standard required for admission. As I admired both of his costumes, I was impressed to learn that his high standards were still considered to be in the newbie stage.

He was scary on Sunday, wafting around noiselessly in his Rorschach trench coat, fedora, and gauze facemask, as a character from “The Watchman” superheroes comic books (available from Paper Heroes, one of the supporters and dealers at the Con), and pretty much in character throughout the day—which was both believable and hard to take. More info about joining the Legion, or requesting their appearance at a charitable event is available from www.501st.com SCA and Amtgard I always find it a bit jarring when I see that the Society for Creative Anachronism’s throwback to medieval recreation sits comfortably alongside the futurists of the Star Wars, Star Trek, and “Battlestar Galactica” costumers. Of course, I’m a very recent convert to the faith and mysteries of the sci-fi fan convention scene, so I’m sure I’ll get used to it with a little more contact.

At Condulac, battling medievalists from SCA and Amtgard, Province of Crimson Moon, a medieval and fantasy group, exhibited their costumes and battled on the field outside the convention building. Inside, in the dealers and exhibit portion of the Rec Center’s

gym, I watched someone painstakingly crimping metal rings into chainmail, and hefted the 40+ pounds of a beautifully welded medieval helmet.

When I commented that the costumes looked heavy and hot for Louisiana’s climate, both Amtgard and SCA members rushed to assure me that despite the weight of the armor, the weapons themselves are relatively light, are safe objects with which to bash opponents, and are easy to handle. Well, I handled one and am only partially convinced. You can join the Amtgard group on Sundays at 2 p.m. at the Westlake softball complex on Harrison Street. The SCA often practices battle at Lock Park in Lake Charles on weekends as well.

So much more…!

If real science was your bag, Condulac offered Dr. Sandra Leder from NASA, who spoke about education in space exploration and her annual space camp, now in its 20th year at McNeese. Roger Erickson of the National Weather Service and KPLCTV’s Jeff Jumper talked hurricane science, and ULL’s Cajunbot Labs’ selfpropelled robotic vehicle was exhibited and shown in action in several film clips from the 2007 D.A.R.P.A. challenge for which it was built.

Paranormal science? Two groups of

paranormal investigators offered their services to track down and dismiss hauntings in public and private places. And author Denise Roper compared J.R.R. Tolkien’s Ring books with J.K. Rowlings Harry Potter series.

For a first effort, Lake Charles’ own sci-fi convention is an official success, breaking even on its modest costs by midday on Saturday, with more than 200 attending the two-day event produced by the Southwest Louisiana Science Education Foundation Inc., headed up by KVHP staffer Justin Toney.

Toney, who made all the announcements in his mellifluous baritone announcer’s voice, appeared, finally, in his custom-made Star Trek costume, to do verbal battle with costumed friends over the competing merits of the big three of science fiction film and television series’ fandom.

In friendly debate, the three extolled their favorite shows, ending in a three-way draw for supremacy. At least they all lived to do battle again in a future year. With modest support from the Arts & Humanities Council, Cameron State Bank, Performance Helicopters, and Buch Printing Co., Condulac laid the foundation for annual repeats. I, for one, will be looking forward to a reprise all year.

TJN

As we enter Hurricane Season, we are dedicated to informing you of any weather threatening Southwest Louisiana. Part of our dedication to keeping you informed and up to date is our KYKZ 96 Hurricane Tracking Chart sponsored by Cameron State Bank and Aggreko.

The KYKZ 96 Hurricane Tracking Chart will be available June 1 at our sponsor locations or at the KYKZ 96 station.

More information at www.kykz.com

JULY 2, 2009

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AAF Happy Camper Advertising Auction The annual AAF Advertising Auction was a great party held at the Harbor’s Edge Pavilion at Prien Lake Park. Offered to the highest bidder were some of the best media and party packages in Southwest Louisiana. Guests enjoyed a palatial spread of delectable buffet items prepared by Joe Heacook, and bid on a varied selection of live and silent auction items. Master Auctioneer Hal McMillin kept the party going. Proceeds from the evening’s fun and games will go to fund scholarships for deserving kids to Summer Arts Camp and scholarships for Sowela and McNeese students.

Barbara Somers, Tara Mora, Mitchell Mora and Tracy Beaugh

Susan Reed and Michelle Bruney

Evia Hodge and Russ Bordelon

Erin-Beth Hanks and Aleece Way

Maria Faul and Ann Barilleaux

Mark Eckard and Eva Abate

Dick and Charlotte Gregory, and, Carrie and Billy Navarre

Midsummer White Linen Night The 700 block of Ryan Street was the setting for the Foundation of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital’s Midsummer White Linen Night--and what a lovely night it was. Ladies and men dressed in white finery strolled from restaurant to restaurant, art exhibit to art exhibit enjoying specialty drinks and listening to the sounds of Southbound, Chris Miller and Bayou Roots and The 1944 Big Band. A fun and leisurely downtown experience.

Patsy Manuel and Lacy Grimes PAGE 48

JULY 2, 2009

Mindy Meyer and Ginger Consigney Volume 1 • Issue 7

Carla and Pete Karam

Tony and Josie Leung

Jeff Elliott and Alana Toliver

Kara Coyne and Juli Wilson

Brittani, Dylan and Brian Ezell

JoLynn and Ron Dingler

Myron Van Dyke and Tony Guillory

John Rene’ and Tommy Fuselier

Tamara and Makenzie Brown

Zarai Varela and Jasmine Washington

Juneteenth The heat was on at the 13th Annual Juneteenth Celebration in more ways than one as the temperatures soared and the Celebrity Barbecue Cook-off got underway. Presented by the MLK Coalition and KZWAFM, the celebration had something for everyone including the Kidz Zone, Walk the Runway Fashion Show, the domino and spades tournaments, food, arts and crafts, and more. Dancing to the music was easy as performers such as T Broussard and the Zydeco Steppers, J-Paul and the Zydeco Nubreeds, Curly Taylor and Zydeco Trouble and the sultry sounds of Barbara Carr, to name a few, took the stage. Good food, fun and fellowship for the whole family.

Stitch Guillory and Tony Mancuso Volume 1 • Issue 7

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Green Corn Fest/Pow Wow The Lake Charles Civic Center Amphitheatre and grounds were the stage for the opening ceremonies of the Atakapa-Ishyak Indian Nation’s First Native American Green Corn Fest/Pow Wow. Traditional food, crafts, dress, music and dance were available allowing the community to experience and learn about the Atakapa Indians’ history and traditions. Open to all, the festival included representatives from several Indian tribes including Cherokee and Coushatta.

Charles and Shanwna Landry and Ethan Richard

Wesley Wiltz, Jr., Wesley Wiltz, Sr., Tremaine Siverand and Sandra Wiltz

Roy and Diane Paul

Chief Bud Grimes, Cherokee Indian Nation; Chief Michael Amos, Atakapa-Ishak Indian Nation

Audi and Sativa Elliott

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Volume 1 • Issue 7

The CW Network Re-launch Merry Ewing and the CW Network team gave a select group of guests at the CW Network Re-launch a sneak peek at exciting new shows and more at AJ’s Bar & Grill recently. The unveiling of a hot new lineup for the new CW Network was presented in screen version with clips of things to come. Cocktails all around, a buffet of tasty hors d’oeuvres and many door prizes added fun and merriment to the evening.

Congrats to FOX 29 and best of luck with the new CW Network!

TJN

Merry Ewing, Stephanie and Larry Maynard

Randy Robb and Phil deAlbuquerque

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Dennis Donald and Mary Stokes

Justin Toney, Daniel McLemore and Mark Ewing

Morgan Wilson and Dana Miller

JULY 2, 2009

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GOOD VIBRATIONS AT 1911 HISTORIC CITY HALL JUNE 26-AUG. 1 Local artist Sue Zimmerman will host an exhibition of “Good Vibrations” at 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center from June 26 through Aug. 1.

“Good Vibrations” is a stunning collection of watercolor paintings on paper.

Zimmerman is noted for translating a typical scene into a study of value and color to produce a visual statement of her perceptions. For more information about “Good Vibrations” and Sue Zimmermann, visit www.suezimmermann.com.

Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center is open Mon. through Fri., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. For more information, please call 491-9147 or visit Tulip by Sue Zimmerman www.cityoflakecharles.com.

RED, WHITE, BLUE AND YOU 4TH OF JULY FESTIVAL The City of Lake Charles is making plans for the 17th annual Red, White, Blue and You July 4th Celebration. The day kicks off at 6 p.m. with a star-spangled street parade. Anyone who would like to parade their love of country is invited to decorate their floats, trucks and cars with red, white and blue decorations. Line up begins at 4 p.m. and the parade rolls at 6 p.m. from Mill Street. There is no entry fee; however, pre-registration is requested by July 1. The celebration continues at the Lake Charles Civic Center Arcade Pavilion with concessions and a patriotic program. Bring your blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy an evening with family and friends. If inclement weather prevails, the program will be moved to the Civic Center Coliseum. The fireworks extravaganza will begin at 9:15 p.m. The fireworks will be shot from a barge over the lake affording a great vantage point for the entire audience. For more information, call 491-9147 or visit www.cityoflakecharles.com.

FOUNDATION AT LC MEMORIAL PRESENTS FIRST MONDAY IN THE ATRIUM JULY 6 The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital is pleased to present First Monday in the Atrium, a musical interlude held on the first Monday of each month from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the atrium at Memorial Hospital on Oak Park Boulevard. The next guest performance will be held on Mon., July 6, and will feature blues and more from

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JULY 2, 2009

JAM

Josephine Unplugged with vocalist Jodi Ricci, Eric Sylvester on guitar, and Don Zimmerman on bass. First Monday in the Atrium is free and open to the public. For more information, please call (337) 494-3226.

THIRD ANNUAL FILM & LECTURE SERIES FROM IMPERIAL CALCASIEU MUSEUM JULY 9, 16, 23, 30 Where else can you watch a great film and have a fabulous discussion, with popcorn, snacks, and sodas for under $5? At the ICM’s Annual Summer Film & Lecture Series! Distinguished and knowledgeable filmbuffs from our community have been invited to share their favorite films and lead an open discussion. Admission is free to museum members, $2 for non-members. Please arrive by 6:30 p.m. Mark your calendars now for an eye-opening experience every Thursday in July! For more info, call 439-3797.

July 9 – All the Kings Men (1949, not rated) The story of the rise of politician Willie Stark from a rural county seat to the spotlight. Along the way, he loses his initial innocence, and becomes just as corrupt as those whom he assaulted before for this characteristic. Presented by the American Press’ Bill Shearman.

July 16 – Deadline U.S.A. (1952, PG) Starring Humphrey Bogart. The story of the day in the life of a newspaper, weaving love lost, love found, gangsters, and the overall value of the free press into this PG-rated film.

Presented by the American Press’ Hector San Miguel.

July 23 – The Pledge (2001, R) With an all-star cast featuring Jack Nicholson and Benicio Del Toro, the story of a retiring police chief’s promise to catch the killer of a young child. Presented by The Jambalaya News’ Phil and Lauren de Albuquerque.

July 30 – The Last of Sheila (1973, R) Called the “thinking mans” thriller, this is the story of a practical joker that gets his friends on board what becomes a deadly murder-mystery game after the sudden death of his wife. Presented by KPLC’s Jim Serra.

PRIEN LAKE MALL TO HOST “ALL ABOUT KIDS EXPO” JULY 11 The Prien Lake Mall is planning an “All About Kids Expo” for Sat., July 11 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Kids of all ages are invited for free activities, face painting, and arts and crafts. Balloon animals, mascots and inflatable jumpies stationed throughout the mall will also allow kids to have fun and parents to get important information from local businesses. Mascots from The Eye Clinic (Seymour) and Cameron State Bank (Moolah Mallard) will also make an appearance. For more information, contact Nikki Buxton at 477-7487.

BIKINI BOMBSHELL CONTEST AT PARTY BY THE POOL JULY 16-AUG. 6 The Bikini Bombshell Contest will be held every Thurs. from July 16Aug. 6 at L’Auberge’s Party by Pool. The first three events will be preliminary rounds with the top five in each round winning prizes (First Prize $1,000) and advancing to the finals on Aug. 6. The top five in the finals will win great prize packages, including $10,000 for the winner.

Contestant registration forms are only available at DarQest Tan at 3939 Ryan Street, Suite B. Contestants must be at least 18 years of age and

Volume 1 • Issue 7

female. LDL employees are allowed to enter. For more information, contact DarQest Tan at (337) 474-0021 or www.DarQestTan.com.

LC SYMPHONY PRESENTS MARCIA BALL JULY 18 Spend the evening of Sat., July 18 with the Lake Charles Symphony and singer/pianist, Marcia Ball. Her exquisite piano playing and passionate, playful vocals fuse New Orleans and Gulf Coast R&B with Austin’s deep songwriting tradition into a sound described as “a little rock, a lot of roll, a pinch of rhythm and a handful of blues.” The party begins at 6:30 p.m. and the concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. Reserved seating will be on the Coliseum floor at tables of eight. Tickets may be purchased individually or for the entire table. Individual reserved seats: $40 each; reserved table of eight (8): $300; preferred table seating of 8 (limited availability) : $1,000.

General admission riser tickets - $15 per person -12 yrs. and younger free with adult. Riser seat advance purchase tickets available at Civic Center box office, Lake Charles Music, Swicegood’s, Lane’s Drug Store in Vinton and the Symphony office. They can be also be purchased at the door the night of the event. For reservations and ticket information, call the Symphony office at 433-1611.

KREWE OF KREWES WILD JUNGLE BINGO JULY 17 Support the Mardi Gras Museum! Come on out to the VFW Country Club Rd. on Fri., July 17 at 7 p.m. for Wild Jungle Bingo. $35 includes food (Junga-li-a), two drink tickets for Jungle Juice and 20 bingo games with great prizes. Dress in safari/jungle wear, or whatever you’d like. Men are invited this year, so get a date, ladies! There will be prizes for the bestdressed krewe, and the krewe selling the most tickets. Tickets are on sale now at Joseph’s Electric, Party Time Store, Gordon’s Drugs, Moss Bluff Flower & Gifts and Hamilton House. For more information, contact Anne Monlezun at egmonlezun@yahoo.com.

CAJUN FRENCH MUSIC ASSOCIATION FOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL JULY 18-19 The Cajun French Music Association is proud to announce its 22nd annual Food and Music Festival, to be held at the Burton Coliseum. The doors open at 8 a.m. on Sat. July 18 and the fun doesn’t end until 4:30 p.m. on Sunday. Enjoy music by Lesa Cormier and the Sundown Playboys, Paul Daigle and Cajun Gold, Joe Simon and the Louisiana Cajuns, and many more! There will be accordion contests, a dance contest, silent auction and raffle, arts and crafts and lots of delicious Cajun food. Admission is $7 per person; children under 12 free. For more information, call 494-0018.

THE TOURNAMENT OF THE STARS AUG. 7-9 The Tournament of the Stars is set for Aug. 7-9, at Barbe High School, McNeese State University, S.J. Welsh Middle School and the Lake Charles Civic Center. Entry forms are available for teams interested in participating. In addition to the tournament, entertainment includes a Hoops I.Q. Session and Exhibition Game/Slam Dunk Contest on Friday, Aug. 7, at 7 p.m. at Barbe High School. The Hoops I.Q. Session with be given by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. The finals for the tournament will be held on Sun., Aug. 9, beginning at 11 a.m. and finishing up at 6 p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center. The weekend’s events will be kicked off by a golf tournament at Gray Plantation beginning at 8 a.m. on Fri., Aug. 7. A pre-tournament social will be held in the Sycamore Room at L’Auberge du Lac at 6 p.m. on Thurs., Aug. 6 for golf pairings. Entry fees are $400 for men and women and are due Fri., July 24. There will be a $50 late fee after July 24. To obtain an entry form, call (337) 491-1466 or register online for both the golf and basketball tournament at www.tournamentofstars.com. TJN Volume 1 • Issue 7

Around Town With The Jam

Champagne on the beach to celebrate our new Web site www.thejambalayanews.com The Jambalaya News recently hit the skies courtesy of Max Trost of Max Air, who took Phil, Lauren and Lisa up in his helicopter for an amazing flight to the Gulf. We took aerial photos, had a champagne picnic on the beach, collected shells, and flew into the sunset.

What a magical evening. Thank you, Max!

The Salvation Army recently held a grand opening at its new location. Jean and Madame Lafitte and a band of scurvy Buccaneers were on hand to autograph posters of the cover of the first issue of The Jambalaya News, which depicts the pirates in all their glory. The Jam’s news truck was there to drop off donations. Aaargh!

TJN

The Buccaneers pillage the new Salvation Army Store on Hwy. 14.

The Jambalaya News truck was seen at the grand opening of The Salvation Army.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

JULY 2, 2009

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To list your event e-mail: lauren@thejambalayanews.com

The

WEDNESDAY, JULY 1 • Don Fontenot & Les Cajuns de la Prairie @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5-10 p.m.

• Jimmy Wilson Band @ Cuz’s Lounge, Sulphur, 6 p.m.

• When the Word Was Sound @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

• John Guidroz @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

• Kris Harper @ Caribbean Hut, 9 p.m.

THURSDAY, JULY 2 • Homer LeJeune @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5-10 p.m.

• Toad the Wet Sprocket @ Party by the Pool, L’Auberge, 7 p.m.

• Kris Harper @ Caribbean Hut, 8 p.m.

• Lisa Marshall @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 8 p.m.

• Blues Tonic @ Caribbean Cove Lounge, Isle of Capri Casino, 8 p.m.

• Brandon Foret @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 9 p.m.

FRIDAY, JULY 3 • Tripper/MuZic Unlimited @ I-10 Park, Jennings, 4 p.m.

• Tom Brandow @ Outriggers Tavern, 5 p.m.

• Tally Miller Marshland Band @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5-10 p.m.

• The Banner Year @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

• Thingfish/Southwest Underground @ Caribbean Hut, 8 p.m.

• City Heat @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 8 p.m.

• Sons In Chaos @ Luna Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

• Wilson Miller & Still Kickin, @ Linda’s Lounge, 8:30 p.m.

• Crooks Carnival @ Toucan’s, 9 p.m.

• Briant Lloyd Smith & Hot Gritz @ Blue Duck Cafe, 9 p.m.

• The Flamethrowers @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.

• Paper Plains/Datlight Broadcast/The 94’s @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 4 • Mack Manuel & the Lake Charles Ramblers @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5-10 p.m.

• Josephine and the Blues Thang @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 8 p.m.

• Ashes of Babylon/Live Oak Decline/ Fresh Nectar/Barisal Guns @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

• Research Turtles @ Scout Bar, Beaumont, Texas, 9 p.m.

• Bernie Alan @ V’s Longbranch Club, Elton, 9 p.m.

• Magnolia Sons/Paper Plains/Colorcast Veteran/ The Highlines @ Toucan’s, 9:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, JULY 5 • Tripper/Istrebound Band @ Mary’s Lounge, 4 p.m.

• Jimmy Wilson Band @ Shorty’s Ice House, Moss Bluff, 5 p.m.

MONDAY, JULY 6 • Singer/Songwriter Night @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

TUESDAY, JULY 7 • Scotty Pousson & Pointe aux Loups Cowboys @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5-10 p.m.

• Gervis Guidry @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8 • Errol Jenkins & Louisiana Tradition @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5-10 p.m.

• Jimmy Wilson Band @ Cuz’s Lounge, Sulphur, 6 p.m.

• Whiskey South @ Caribbean Hut, 9 p.m.

THURSDAY, JULY 9 • Travis Benoit & Allons Dance @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5-10 p.m.

• Brian Racca/Corey Lambert @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 p.m.

• Ingram Hill @ Party by the Pool, L’Auberge du Lac, 7 p.m.

• Red Letter Reverb/Glocca Morra/The 94’s @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

• Dog Men Poets @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

• The Reds @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 9 p.m.

FRIDAY, JULY 10 • Howard Noel & Cajun Boogie @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5-10 p.m.

• Tom Brandow @ Outriggers Tavern, 5 p.m.

• Anavie/Sunrise Kills @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

• Southbound @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 8 p.m.

• Wilson Miller & Still Kickin @ Linda’s Lounge, 8:30 p.m.

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JULY 2, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 7

• • • •

The Winter Sounds @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

Nothing More/The Silent Planet @ Toucan’s, 9 p.m.

Trial By Fire @ Grand Casino Coushatta, 9 p.m.

Briant Lloyd Smith & Hot Gritz @ Blue Duck Cafe, 9 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 11 • Joe Simon & Louisiana Cajun @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5-10 p.m.

• Fresh Nectar @ Beer and Food Fest for Autism, Downtown Lake Charles, 7 p.m.

• Chris Miller & Bayou Roots @ Bell City KC Hall, Bell City, 8 p.m.

• Wendy Colonna @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

• Pork Chop Express @ Blue Duck Cafe, 9 p.m.

• Trial By Fire @ Grand Casino Coushatta, 9 p.m.

• Champagne with Friends/Laurel & The Edge, 9:30 p.m.

• Parabelle, Neverset, 32 Leaves, Parallel the Sky @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.

THURSDAY, JULY 16 • Fricassee Cajun Band @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Pandemic/Blacksmithz @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

• Rumor Mill @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m.

Michael Jackson 1958-2009

His music will live forever.

FRIDAY, JULY 17 • Nameless @ Lake Arthur Park, Lake Arthur, 6 p.m.

• Blues Tonic @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 8 p.m.

• Sweet Root @ OB’s, 9 p.m.

• Meriwether/The Armorist @ Toucan’s, 9:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 18 • Various Bands, Cajun Food & Music Festival, Lake Charles, 2:30 p.m.

• Muffin Man @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

• Dan DeSandro @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 8 p.m.

TJN

SUNDAY, JULY 12 • Jimmy Wilson Band @ Shorty’s Ice House, Moss Bluff, 5 p.m.

MONDAY, JULY 13 • Kris Harper @ Cajun’s Wharf, 8 p.m.

Dr. Bruce Maerhofer Chiropractic

NEW LOCATION! 4413 Lake Street Lake Charles, LA.

(337) 438-1558

Volume 1 • Issue 7

JULY 2, 2009

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