VOL. 1, NO. 17 /NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Wine and Alchemy Weave Their Magic • Pony Up at Delta Downs Fighting Hunger at Home • Keyboard Arts Piano Studio
West Builders has been doing construction since 1994. We are a locally owned company dedicated to the growth of Southwest Louisiana. Our customers are our top priority and can enjoy top quality construction in remarkable time frames. Call today and see how we can make your residential and commercial dreams come true.
• New Residential Construction • New Commercial Construction • Outdoor Structures • Restorations & Additions
Brad West
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 17
GENERAL 715 Kirby 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 Jen Breen Sara Blackwell George Cline James Doyle Dan Ellender T.C. Elliot Erica McCreedy Mike McHugh Mary Louise Ruehr Brandon Shoumaker Steve Springer, M.D. ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANT Patricia Prudhomme SALES ASSOCIATES Faye Drake Karla Tullos Lazette Procter Katy Corbello GRAPHICS ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Darrell Buck
contents COVER STORY 24
Thanksgiving Traditions
REGULARS 7 12 14 16 18 22 39 42
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FEATURES 5 11 20 30 35 38 40 58
Fighting Hunger at Home Sowela Serves up Big Plans Bayou Biz: Keyboard Arts Piano Studio Holiday Gift Guide Holiday Happenings Elly May Clampett Speaks to Retired Teachers Pony Up at Delta Downs Wine and Alchemy
ENTERTAINMENT 44 45 46 49 51 56 60 62
Funbolaya Killin’ Time Crossword Red Hot Books Family Night at the Movies Society Spice Jambalaya Jam The Local Jam Eclectic Company
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BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kay Andrews
Volume 1 • Issue 17
November 19, 2009 • Volume 1 • Issue 17
The Boiling Pot The Dang Yankee Tip’s Tips Doyle’s Place The Zestful Life What’s Cookin’ House Call Sports Report
ART/PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Michelle LaVoie
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.
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On Cover: Vinton Elementary School Pre-K students Tucker Corbello, left, Derreanna Barefield, Kaitlyn Pinder and David Arvie Jr., on a field trip to CM Farms in Reeves, La. Photo by Michelle LaVoie
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A Note From Lauren Okay…We Didn’t Dodge the Bullet In the last issue, I took a chance. I boldly stated that even though there was another month left to Hurricane Season 2009, I was pretty sure it was all over. This would be the first season since we moved down here that we would not be affected by a named storm. Well, I was wrong. Now, Southwest Louisiana did fine, thank God. And if Phil and I had stayed put, and if we didn’t have a beach home in Dauphin Island, Alabama, we’d be fine, too. But our good friends Ed Chavanne and Michelle Krebs invited us to their wedding in the Cayman Islands the first weekend in November. They’d chosen that particular time because they figured that this late in the season, they wouldn’t have to worry about a hurricane coming along and raining (and blowing) on their parade. Well, they were wrong. Hurricane Ida decided to rear her ugly head earlier that week. By the time we flew in on Friday, she was whirling around Nicaragua. While the Cayman Islands were spared the full force of the storm, by late afternoon, it started to rain, accompanied by high winds and waves. The wedding was on Saturday, and was supposed to be held right on the beach. By noon, the original plan was nixed in favor of a gazebo under a tent on the deck of the beachside restaurant where the reception would be held. By the time we arrived, it was raining heavily. The bride claims her gown was soaked, but luckily, it didn’t show. So the happy couple got married on the deck overlooking the sea with these big crazy waves crashing behind them. I guess if you want to add some excitement to your wedding,
get married on a little island that’s getting pounded by a storm. Luckily, it all worked out, although one of the wedding guests was on the deck taking a picture when a huge wave came over the railing and hit him dead on. Unfortunately, I was right behind him—in a silk dress. He took the brunt of it and got soaked from head to toe—but I managed to get pretty wet myself. The next day, the weather was even worse. This was the very first time I’d ever gone to an island and not put on a bathing suit. And on the Weather Channel, we heard that Ida was heading for the Gulf, and Louisiana had declared a state of emergency. Déjà vu…. The day we left, Mother Nature decided to be really bust our chops. The sun rose in a cloudless sky and shone over white sandy beaches and calm turquoise waters – as we got into the cab to the airport. Perfect. Fortunately, Louisiana was spared. But Ida, considerably weakened, but still a tropical storm to contend with, made landfall in the Gulf. The center hit Dauphin Island, Alabama. Where we have a home. If you hear a strange sound coming from your television, pay no attention. That’s just Jim Cantore, having the last laugh.
– Lauren de Albuquerque TJN
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 17
By Jen Breen
Dave saw a familiar face across the gas station parking lot as he filled his tank. “Is that Jim?” He waved. The last time Dave had talked to Jim was at their sons’ soccer game just over a year ago. Now Jim looked uneasy. “How are you?” Dave asked. “I’ve been having a tough time lately,” Jim said. He told his friend how he had been laid off from his job and was struggling to make ends meet, but he knew it would be okay. “I’m sorry to hear you’re having such a hard time. Let me know if there is anything I can do,” Dave said. “Give me a call. We should get together some time soon.” “Sure,” Jim responded as he waved his friend goodbye and then watched him race to work. Jim turned and walked to the side of the gas station where he had parked his car. His wife has just fallen asleep in the passenger seat and his two young sons were sleeping soundly, wrapped in a blanket in the back seat. Jim sighed. A year ago their lives were completely different. They were able to hold on until a few days ago. The bills just piled up too high and they
couldn’t keep the house. He didn’t know what to tell his kids, but he knew they were hungry. Hunger has many faces. It is a quiet pain that is often hard to recognize. It not only affects the endemic poor, but also those who are marginally employed with inadequate pay; families in a temporary crisis; the physically, mentally and literacyhandicapped; and the elderly, who have no assistance. Abraham’s Tent has been feeding Southwest Louisiana’s hungry for 23 years. The non-profit organization offers the area’s hungry hot meals every day without fees, criteria or limit to how often one can be served. Abraham’s Tent also helps many individuals reverse their situation by providing necessary elements, such as clothing, laundry facilities, tutoring and guidance. Abraham’s Tent was founded in April 1986 to answer a calling. Times were tough in Southwest Louisiana. The unemployment rate in Calcasieu Parish had reached 21 percent and area churches were getting more requests for food than they could handle.
Bishop Jude Speyrer of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Lake Charles called a meeting of local Protestant and Catholic pastors, the rabbi of Temple Sinai and the leadership of the local Bread for the World chapter. It was decided that a unified effort was the only way to solve this problem. Joined by other area churches, this group formed Abraham’s Tent, which was named by one of its original board members, Rabbi Sherman Stein, who looked to the story in Genesis when Abraham welcomed three strangers into his tent, for inspiration. It was decided that the community-supported organization would not promote any religious group nor turn anyone away. Hunger would be the only qualification. Abraham’s Tent is open every day and feeds over 60,000 people a year. On average, the organization feeds 200 people a day, including 87 individuals who are either disabled or sick and reside at the Chateau du Lac retirement community.
Pearl Cole, who has been the executive director for 20 years welcomes more than 60,000 people to Abraham's Tent each year. Volume 1 • Issue 17
Many travel to Abraham’s Tent by bus. Bus tokens are provided with meals. Pearl Cole, who has been the executive director of Abraham’s Tent for 20 years said, “Southwest Louisiana is a generous place. Any time we have asked, the community has responded. There is no way that we could feed all of these people on our budget. Seventy-five percent of the food we prepare comes from the community.” She points to Kleinpeter Farms Dairy as an example. Kleinpeter regularly pulls its milk from area supermarket shelves eight days before its expiration date, and delivers it to Abraham’s Tent. “And, when they heard about our increased need during the holidays,” Cole added, “they pledged an additional 10 cases of fresh milk and 10 cases of punch.” “Seeing the good that Abraham’s Tent does in the community, it was an easy decision to help,”
Mervin Roy and Pearl Cole of Abraham's Tent get ready to prepare the meals. NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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Pearl Cole, executive director of Abraham's Tent greets the Kleinpeter Farms Dairy truck as they prepare to make a delivery.
said Jeff Kleinpeter, president of Kleinpeter Farms Dairy. “I think other companies—food companies and others—will respond like we did, once they realize the tremendous service Abraham’s Tent performs on a limited budget.” “Not every company can donate food products like Kleinpeter does,” Cole said, “but we’re grateful for any donation—large or small—from businesses or individuals. We know how to stretch every dollar that’s given to feed as many people as possible.” The holidays are an especially crucial time for Abraham’s Tent. Normally, there is an increase in the numbers they serve. “Our needs are
greater during this time of year. We tend to see more families in need,” Cole said. Donations during holiday season often stock the Abraham’s Tent pantry for four to five months. However, hunger does not stop at Christmas. Abraham’s Tent feeds the area’s hungry year round. The organization also accepts monetary donations and has a need for paper goods. If you or your business would like to make a donation or learn more about Abraham’s Tent’s needs, call Pearl Cole at 439-9330. Donations can be mailed to 2300 Fruge Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, or dropped off at the same address between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. weekdays. TJN
Donations for Fire Victims Needed To donate to fire victim David Herpin and his family, mail checks made out to Herpin to Southwest Louisiana Credit Union, 4056 Ryan St., Lake Charles, LA 70605. A recent fire displaced Herpin, his
wife and two-year-old son, killing the family dog and completely destroying the house. Herpin is a bartender at Sylvia’s Bistro in Lake Charles. TJN
Air Travel Expected to Be Down for Thanksgiving U.S. airlines are expecting Thanksgiving air travel to be down 4 percent from a year ago as consumer frugality and challenging finances take a toll on spending. The Air Transport Association of America said recently that it expects travel to be down 4 percent compared to Thanksgiving 2008. “It is increasingly apparent that economic headwinds facing the airlines and their customers are anything but behind us. The recent announcement that U.S. PAGE 6
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
unemployment surpassed 10 percent highlights one of the key factors impacting consumer buying decisions,” said ATA CEO James May. The U.S. unemployment rate hit 10.2 percent in October, the highest since 1983, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Still, the ATA said flights in and around Thanksgiving are likely to be full because airlines have been trimming schedules in an effort to maximize strained bottom lines.
TJN Volume 1 • Issue 17
The
Boiling
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Please submit press releases to lauren@thejambalayanews.com
pedic surgeon and a regional expert on hip arthroscopy, was fellowship-trained in sports medicine at the prestigious Steadman Hawkins Clinic in Vail, Colorado. He also served as assistant professor of clinical orthopedics and sports medicine at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. For more information, or to schedule an appoint with Dr. Cascio or Dr. Drez, call Orthopaedic Specialists at (337) 494-4900.
From left to right: Leslie Harless, vice president with Cameron State Bank presents a signed and numbered print by Elton Louviere to Dale Champagne and his wife Bobbie. Winner Announced in Cameron State Bank’s October Giveaway Dale Champagne of Sulphur is the October winner in Cameron State Bank’s Outdoor Adventure giveaway. He won a guided duck-hunting trip for two at Jim Bel’s Hunting Lodge. The trip includes lodging, meals, a boat and dog for the hunt. Dale also won a signed and numbered print by Elton Louviere. His name goes back in for the grand prize drawing, as do all the monthly winners. The grand prize is a 17-foot fishing boat, motor and trailer to be given away this month. Registration slips are available at all Cameron State Bank locations. Art Associates Announces Awards Art Associates of Lake Charles announced the winners of the third annual juried show in Central School. Nancy Melton won Best of Show with “Ole Joe,” a watercolor painting. Honorable Mention awards went to Heather Ryan Kelley for “Study,” an oil on paper; to Hannah Vincent for her ceramic piece “Lovers Intertwined,” and to Devin Morgan for his monotype, “Big Blue Nothing.” Memorial Sports Medicine Welcomes New Medical Director Dr. David Drez, orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist who has served as the medical director of the Lake Charles Memorial Sports Medicine Program for the past 25 years, welcomes Dr. Brett Cascio, orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist as the new medical director for Memorial’s Sports Medicine Program. Dr. Cascio, a board- certified orthoVolume 1 • Issue 17
Dr. Brett Cascio
On hand for the signing were (from left) Dr. Alan LeBato, Medical Director of the Memorial/LSUHSC Family Practice Residency Program; Ronnie Duncan, Executive Director, Coalition of Not for Profit Hospitals and Catholic Health Association of Louisiana.; John Matessino, President and CEO of Louisiana Hospital Association; Larry Graham, President and CEO of Memorial Hospital; Carl Shetler, Immediate Past Chairman of the Memorial Hospital’s Board of Trustees; Governor Jindal; Senator Dan Morrish (R - District 25) of Jennings, and Tim Coffey, Sr. VP of Operations for Memorial Hospital. Lake Charles Memorial Designated Major Teaching Hospital With the signing of Senate Bill 215 by Governor Bobby Jindal, Lake Charles Memorial Hospital has earned the designation of Major Teaching Hospital. The bill amended the “Major Teaching Status” to be applicable to facilities having a documented affiliation agreement with a Louisiana medical school accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education, meeting at least one of two residency program criteria. The Family Medicine Residency Program began in January 1995, with a mission to promote and provide the highest quality physician education through patient care by utilizing the most up-to-date educational methods and information systems. Since its inception, 79 medical school graduates have selected Lake Charles as their residency site. City Savings Bank Announces Promotions Glenn Bertrand, President of City Savings Bank, is pleased to announce the promotions of Debi Pruitt to Branch Manager of City Savings Bank’s Main Office in DeRidder, Cade Marze to Branch Manager of City
Debi Pruitt
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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Chad Marze
Trevor Cooley
Mickey Atkinson
Savings Bank’s Countryside Branch in DeRidder, Trevor Cooley to Assistant Branch Manager of the Main Office Branch and Lending Officer and Mickey Atkinson to Assistant Manager and Lending Officer at the Countryside Branch. City Savings Bank has locations in DeRidder, Leesville, DeQuincy, Moss Bluff, Lake Charles and Sulphur. For more information, contact Matthew Bowles at (337) 463-8661, ext. 235 or mbowles@citysavingsbank.com.
Lake Charles Coca-Cola Bottling Company representatives, from left, Blaine Royer, cold drink sales manager, and Larry Stout, vice president, present the donation to McNeese Athletics Director Tommy McClelland. McNeese Photo Coca Cola Donates to MSU Athletics Lake Charles Coca-Cola Bottling Company has donated $70,000 to McNeese State University for athletics.
Rouge et Blanc Donation Supports Banners Series Above: The Downtown Development Authority executive director Lori Marinovich, left, presents Bill Monk, managing partner with Stockwell Sievert Law Firm, with a 2009 Rouge et Blanc poster for its $5,000 donation for this annual fall fundraiser for the McNeese Banners Cultural Series. Rouge et Blanc is sponsored by the McNeese Foundation and the Downtown Development Authority. McNeese photo
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 17
STORE HOURS FOR ALL LOCATIONS. Monday - Friday, 10am-8pm • Saturday, 10am-5pm
Closed on Sunday Cameron Communications’ President George Mack is on hand as Jim Dufrene is installed as a Cameron Communications customer. Mack and Dufrene are joined by Kevin Savoie and Robert Foreman, who were also instrumental in bringing Cameron Communications to the neighborhood. From left, Robert Foreman, Kevin Savoie, Jim Dufrene and George Mack. Petition Brings Fiber-to-the-Home Technology The neighborhood of Woodland Forest is now powered by fiber, through Cameron Communications’ advanced Fiber-To-The-Home communications network, thanks to a few people. After hearing about the benefits of a buried Fiber network and the advanced products that Cameron Communications has to offer, Jim Dufrene and his neighbors, Kevin Savoie, Robert Foreman and others, petitioned to bring Cameron Communications to their neighborhood. If your neighborhood is interested, they need to hear from you. They encourage residents of Moss Bluff to come by their store located at 180 Gloria Drive, Suite 400, call them at 855-2009, or in the case of The Woodlands—start a neighborhood petition!
3905 Ryan Street Lake Charles, LA 70605 477-4009 • 477-4020 Fax 477-4024 2251 Maplewood Drive Sulphur, LA 70663 533-1007 • 533-1008 Call-In’s Welcome
From left to right: Bill Hankins, CEO; Tonya Stillwell, Physical Therapist; Angie Breaux, Partners President WCCH Announces Employee of the Quarter West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital recently named Tonya Stillwell, physical therapist, as its fourth quarter employee of the quarter. Stillwell has been with the hospital for 13 years and has been in her current profession for approximately 15 years. Stillwell is a member of the Louisiana Physical Therapy Association and the American Physical Therapy Association, and serves as a clinical instructor for physical therapy students. She is a member of St. Theodore Catholic Church in Moss Bluff, where she serves as the Secretary for Holy Family Catholic School’s Parent-Teacher organization. ALCOA Supports the Whistle Stop Alcoa Carbon Products recently donated $3,000 to the Whistle Stop, whose primary focus is to give children access to their non-residential parents. In 2008, the visitation program completed over 2,100 hours of visits. The Whistle Stop also sponsors “Dancing Classrooms,” an arts in education, life skills program offered to private and public fifth grade students. The program utilizes ballroom dancing as a vehicle to teach children respect, teamwork and self-esteem. Earlier this year, 314 students from six schools participated in the program.
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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We’ve got scooters, accessories, and gift cards for everyone on your gift list!
From left to right: Nicole Coutu, ALCOA Plant Manager; Nancy Vallee, Executive Director of the Whistle Stop; Peter Guillory, United Steel Workers Local 211-A; and Connie Parker, ALCOA Community Relations Representative. Cheniere Energy Donates Billboards Cheniere Energy donated the installation of the new billboard structure and the space to the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road in an effort to help promote tourism in the area to visitors entering Louisiana from Texas on Highway 82 along the Gulf of Mexico. TJN
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Patricia Outtrim, vice president of governmental and regulatory affairs for Cheniere Energy, and Shelley Johnson, executive director of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, display smaller versions of the recently posted billboards at Cheniere Energy’s new LNG terminal at Sabine Pass in Cameron Parish.
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Calcasieu Animal Services & Adoption Center Hopes to Empty Kennels by December 20 Residents are encouraged to foster a pet for a month during the holidays Calcasieu Parish Animal Services & Adoption Center is participating in the national “Foster a Lonely Pet for the Holidays” pet-fostering program. Across the country, over 13,000 pet rescue organizations are trying to empty their kennels for Christmas and are encouraging members of the public to invite a pet home for the holidays. Calcasieu Parish Animal Services & Adoption Center will provide all needed foods. The center has an average population of 50 adoptable dogs and
25 adoptable cats and all can be viewed online at www.petfinder.com. The goal is to have each of these pets into a home by noon on Dec. 20. Calcasieu Parish Animal Services & Adoption Center is happy to answer questions about the program for people interested in making this Christmas a happy holiday for a pet in need. If you are interested in welcoming home a pet for a month during the Christmas holidays, please contact us at (337) 721-3730. TJN Volume 1 • Issue 17
State legislators listen to presentations by Sowela’s executive team at the college’s Legislative Breakfast. Pictured from left to right: Sen. Dan Morrish, Sowela Chancellor Andrea Lewis Miller, Sen. Willie Mount, Rep. Chuck Kleckley and Rep. Mike Danahay.
State legislators had a heavy helping of college priorities at a breakfast meeting with Sowela Technical Community College’s executive team recently. At the college’s Legislative Breakfast, Sowela’s administration outlined eight priorities for the campus as it transitions from a technical college to a technical community college. “Primarily, as a technical college, we only offered one type of degree. That was the Associate of Applied Science,” said Sowela Chancellor Andrea Lewis Miller. “We will still maintain our associate of applied science degree and all our technology programs, but we will now begin to offer the associate of arts and associate of science degrees.” Included in the eight priorities presented to the legislators to make way for Sowela’s growing student body and new degree offerings are plans to transform the campus into a 21st century learning environment. Develop infrastructure The first priority is to develop the college’s technology infrastructure to enhance wired and wireless network communications, implement a disaster recovery/ business continuity plan and to implement Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). “Should a storm occur again, we want to have the infrastructure that would allow us to continue our coordination of giving instruction to students and conserving our data so that we are not totally wiped out,” said Volume 1 • Issue 17
Chief Information Resources and Technologies Officer Charles Nwankwo. Funds from the Sowela Foundation will provide the college with a new Student Information System that will improve student admissions, registration and student data reporting and collection.
Student Success said in his presentation. “The Honors Academy is designed to provide a rigorous academic program for those highly motivated students that we continue to attract.” While the college’s enrollment has increased 34 percent since fall 2007, Nancy Joslin, Dean of Enrollment Management, said that many in the community do not know that Sowela offers 50 credit hours in the arts and sciences that transfer to four-year institutions. Sowela plans to position the college for future growth and communicate its new identity through market research and strategic branding. As a response to the demands of a growing industrial workforce in Louisiana, Sowela included a priority to build a corporate training center to provide customized training specifically tailored to meet workforce needs. Building projects underway David Darbone, Director of Facilities Planning and Management, said that several building projects are already well underway. One building is in the design phase, he said. Architect David Brossette is working on the Process
Technology Building with $2 million donated by ConocoPhillips. The H.C. Drew Estate donated $2.78 million toward a multi-storied 35,000 square foot Nursing and Allied Health Building. Architect Jeff Kudla is in the preliminary programming phase of the project. A $13-million building project to house the new liberal arts program is also in the works thanks to state funding provided by ACT 391, he said. Final thoughts As Sowela positions itself to offer associative degree programs in the arts and sciences, Chancellor Miller said that Sowela remains true to its original purpose. “We don’t want anyone to think that we are not going to do what we have traditionally done, and that’s provide strong technology and career programs,” she said. “We will still maintain all of our programs that impact economic development by providing a skilled workforce for Southwest Louisiana.” For more information contact, Takisha Knight at Takisha.knight@sowela.edu. TJN
Culture of evidence Another high-ranked priority is to create a culture of evidence on campus by developing an integrated system of institutional effectiveness (IE) that includes planning, budgeting, evaluation and assessment. This will be accomplished through a system of data collection, tracking and monitoring, and dissemination. The data will provide a foundation for measuring institutional and student success and for enhancing decisionmaking. Curriculum enhancement The third priority listed is to extend academic course offerings and curriculum enhancement. Sowela is extending its welding program by 200 percent to accommodate the demand that the Shaw Modular Solutions Group creates. Dual credit opportunities for high school students through career and technical education programs and a nursing associate degree program are also on the horizon. “We are working on an Honors Academy,” Rick Bateman, Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs and NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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Dang Yankee The
By Mike McHugh
The Second Thanksgiving With Thanksgiving Day approaching, I thought it would be a good idea to do a little looking into the history (tongue-in-cheek) of the holiday for all y’all’s benefit and let you know what I found out. I figured I’d try to uncover maybe a few tidbits or little known facts that y’all might find interesting. First off, I know that we Yankees like to take credit for having started the holiday, what with the Pilgrims up in Massachusetts and all that. But you wouldn’t believe where it turns out
that the first Thanksgiving dinner in America really happened. The very first Thanksgiving celebration ever to take place in the New World was actually put on by 600 Spanish settlers in September 1565— in what is now the state of Florida. That’s right, Thanksgiving was invented right in the heart of Dixie more than 50 years before the Pilgrims ever set foot on Plymouth Rock! And remember, now, this happened way before Florida became more like Brooklyn with palm trees,
so the South can rightly take credit for having instituted the holiday. The misconception that Thanksgiving is a holiday of Yankee origin stems from the fact that the tradition failed to take hold after that big party in 1565. I’m sure it would have been a different story had the Dallas Cowboys been around at the time, with John Madden announcing the game and bragging on the turduc-hen he would enjoy afterwards. So, we had to wait for the Pilgrims to come onto the scene to get things going again. My research, which is based totally on interviews with mental patients who claim to have been there, has enabled me to piece together this account of what we should now rightly call the Second Thanksgiving. When the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth, they apparently had little clue as how to go about farming or hunting in order to feed themselves. Evidence suggests that they expected to find a Kroger’s when they got off the boat. In case you don’t believe me, this was proven in a recent archaeological survey of the Plymouth Colony, where they found grocery coupons with fine print that read, “Offer Expires January 20, 1621”.
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1145 Hodges St. Lake Charles • 70601 Office (337) 802-7726 Fax (888) 877-6530 www.alvinguillory.com PAGE 12
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Fortunately for the Pilgrims, they did meet some friendly Native Americans who were able to help them survive. No, they did not offer double coupons, since it would be a few years before Kroger’s opened. (They did have a casino, but alas, the Pilgrims, being a religious sort, did not gamble.) What the natives did do was to show the Pilgrims how to grow maize, a primitive form of corn, and to catch eels. These new skills were enough to sustain the Pilgrims through their first year in the New World, and so, in the fall, when the harvest of maize was in and the local waterways teemed with long, squirmy things, the Pilgrims and Native Americans got together to celebrate and give thanks. As you might by now imagine, the menu was really nothing similar to the turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie that we enjoy today. No, the dinner guests on that second Thanksgiving had to make do with nothing more than eels fried in corn meal batter. This gave rise to two new American traditions. First, of course, is the good old-fashioned fish fry (except today, we have the luxury of having farm-raised catfish rather than eels). Second, this gave the Native Americans the idea of instituting the all-you-can-eat seafood buffet at their casino properties. A last, little known fact is that the natives at that time also instituted the tradition of what has come to be known as Black Friday. They did this for their own amusement. Following the Thanksgiving feast, they told the Pilgrims that, at promptly an hour before dawn the next morning, they would have beaver pelts to offer to the Pilgrims for the ridiculously low price of today’s equivalent of one dollar apiece. Thus enticed, the entire community of Pilgrims rose the next day at the appointed hour and lined up at the entrance to the natives’ settlement, only to find that there was just one beaver pelt available at that price. Legend has it that the British army captain Miles Standish was the first in line for the pelt, but he was beat out by a middle-aged Pilgrim woman who walloped him across the side of the head with her deerskin pouch. So, I ask you elementary school teachers here in Dixieland to take note of this account before you plan your students’ next re-enactment of this, the second Thanksgiving. And if you do, let me know. I want to be in the front row. I’ll even consider providing the fried eels. TJN Volume 1 • Issue 17
LifeShare Blood Centers Rolling out Thanksgiving Dinner to You! If you’re not up to preparing Thanksgiving dinner, then you’re just the donor we’re hunting for. LifeShare Blood Centers will provide a pre-cooked Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings to one lucky donor each day prior to Thanksgiving beginning Monday, Nov. 23, through Wednesday, Nov. 25. Take part in helping us give the gift of life while having the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal already prepared for your convenience. Albertsons, LLC is the sponsor of this promotion by providing the dinners.
Potential donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110lbs., must feel well and healthy at the time of donation, know the names and reasons for medications taken, and should eat a good meal and increase fluid intake prior to donation. Donors will be asked to present photo identification at time of donation. For more blood donation information, or to find a conveniently located mobile drive, call 436-4932 or visit www.lifeshare.org.
TJN
Lake Area Classes, Seminars, Workshops “UP THE BEADED PATH” WITH CHARLOTTE METCALF Meets Mondays 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Charleston Hotel and Gallery. All levels of expertise welcomed. Make new friends and become part of a networking group. Bring beads for a project and your lunch for break time. Register and check for exact dates and more details at www.upthebeadedpath.com. DIABETES AWARENESS DAY NOV. 23 The Moss Regional Medical Center Patient Education and Nutritional Services Departments, along with SWLA Center for Health Services are hosting a Diabetes Awareness Day, Nov. 23 from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the Prien Lake Mall. The public is invited to stop by for free blood sugar checks as well as blood pressure checks. Diabetes-related health and nutrition information will be distributed and door prizes will be drawn. For more information, contact the Moss Regional Patient Education Dept at 475-8279. MEMORIAL HOSPITAL HOSTS BLOOD DRIVE NOV. 23 Lake Charles Memorial Hospital will host a United Blood Services blood drive on Mon., Nov. 23, from 2– 6 p.m. in the parking Volume 1 • Issue 17
lot directly across Oak Park Boulevard from the hospital’s main campus entrance at 1701 Oak Park Boulevard. In addition to the reward of saving lives, United Blood Services also offers other incentives for regular blood donors with their “Hero in Us” donor benefits program. Those who donate once a year become bronze members, twice a year become silver members and three times a year become gold members. Donors are awarded points for each donation, and can redeem those points for gifts on the United Blood Services Hero in Us Web site at www.bloodhero.com. For more information, call Allison Goodson at (337) 593-7367. LAKESIDE WELLNESS MEDICAL CLINIC HEALTH FAIR DEC. 5 Start the holiday season off healthy and happy! Bring in 2010 with better health and a brighter outlook. Stop by the Lakeside Wellness Medical Clinic at 1908 Maplewood Dr., Suite B in Sulphur, Dec. 5, from 10 a.m.- noon. There will be door prizes, educational and nutritional information, and health screenings. For more information, contact Lakeside Wellness Medical Clinic at 625-5050. TJN
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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By George “Tip” Cline
Rebate Debate With today’s economy so much less than robust, businesses are trying to find ways to improve their revenue by attracting your hardearned dollar. Many merchants do offer some very good deals, but many come up short in giving the customer a fair shake. Hey, they all need to make a profit if they are to remain in operation, but the key is determining which ones are really on your side and which ones are only on theirs. It’s your job to sort them out. Rebates have been a favorite practice of some manufacturers to entice that extra purchase out of you. They fully know that a very hefty percentage of those eligible items will not be applied for or even attempted to be redeemed. Many times, the rebate offer is forgotten about and no filing is ever made. Most rebates are not even handled by the party offering the promotion. There are independent companies that are processing your attempt to receive what you were allegedly promised. It is a matter of cash flow for the manufacturers to keep your money as long as possible before refunding a dime. They use all kinds of mechanisms to make it a bit complicated for you to comply with their offers—dates being one of the most important. Make sure to stay on top of any rebate you might be going after because no one else is going to do it for you. Carefully read the conditions that you must comply with, and don’t forget the UPC code on the original container (you know, on the box you just threw away). Usually, you need the original receipt—a copy won’t do PAGE 14
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
because they are guarding against multiple redemptions of the same purchase. Hey, not everybody is as honest as you and I are. The in-house rebate gimmick that some merchants use is a clever way of manipulating their customers. They offer you some money off on your future purchases, thereby trying to insure your future patronage. CVS Pharmacy, for one, calls their program “Extra Bucks.” There are many others that are based on a similar customer loyalty model. They can be very successful when carefully adjusted to the particular market sector targeted. Their object is to increase customer retention and thereby keep you in their camp. This is not necessarily a detriment to you. A savvy customer should always be aware that merchants want to maximize their revenue and thereby profit. Again, not a bad thing if you are receiving the maximum bang for your buck, but you are being manipulated, as they want to make the most profit off your purchasing. The street can go both ways; The merchant prospers and the customer can get extra value. Don’t even consider that there is any altruism involved—it’s about the money. GIFT CARDS: PROS AND CONS As we approach the holidays, I see that gift cards have become popular way to spread Christmas cheer. Ever have to buy a present for a teenager? You never know what is the latest “in” thing or what has become passé this week. I’ve used these cards for a number of years with great satisfacVolume 1 • Issue 17
tion—on my part for the ease of it, and on the part of the recipients. They can now make their own purchasing decisions. There will never be any exchanges for size, color, style or just plain dislike. It may not be the answer for all your gifting needs, but it sure works well for some. However, there are a number of pitfalls that you must keep in mind when giving gift cards. There’s always a hook somewhere in the deal. Just be aware of it and you’ll do fine. There are basically two different types of gift cards available. Bankissued cards (VISA, MasterCard, etc.) and those issued by stores and/or their corporate umbrella. The bank cards are the trickiest, as they are usually full of ways that can take your money. They have fees to purchase, and you don’t have the protection of being able to dispute a purchase as with a credit card. Store gift cards are just that— they can only be used in that merchant’s store or family of stores. They are not as flexible as bank cards, which can be used at any location that normally accepts their credit cards. I like the store cards because you usually know which stores your recipient has a fondness for or what restaurants they tend to enjoy. On the negative side, gift cards can expire and become worthless, and they can have fees that drain the value, which can leave you not knowing what you do have — and they wind up with your unspent money. But there is some relief coming. There are Federal Reserve rules coming into play next year that will prevent some of the abuses.
ONLINE BANKING On-line banking is a very useful tool for your financial obligations, both for routine or one-time payments to businesses and/or individuals. The really neat part is that you have the ability to see when the payment is received, and the bank is responsible to see that it’s done. It’s nice to be able to schedule payments well in advance of due dates, and be able to modify, change and keep an eye on your money flow. I’ve been doing on-line banking for quite a while and have had very satisfactory results. Payment is made by your banking institution, either by direct transfer or by them mailing a check to whomever you’ve chosen. They pick up the tab for postage or transfer, making a nice deal for you. It does require (as does anything having to do with your money) constant and careful monitoring of your account. The bank guarantees that the payment will be received when and where specified, but you have to catch the slip-ups that can occur. Your payment can be misapplied, as it can with any other type of transaction. It’s up to you to find errors before they become a problem. I had one instance where a payment was misapplied to the wrong account. Since I check online faithfully, it was easy to spot the error. The bank made copies of their deposited check showing its bank account number, date of deposit and the number assigned to my account and faxed it all to them, costing me nothing but a little time. If I had to wait for my bank statement in the mail and a past-due notice from the billing institution, it would not have been as easy to correct. TJN
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www.sleepdisordercenterofla.com Volume 1 • Issue 17
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
PAGE 15
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Lately I have been in touch with my ethnic genotype, which is Stubborn Irishman. Because I have all the characteristics of the breed, I often cross the boundary into Emo Land. I am the guy who cries at chick flicks, laughs a little too loud and sometimes yells a little too much, particularly with my boy Harry. Being a single dad of a teenager is not easy, even when you have as much help from his mom as I do. It’s a constant dance between being a friend and roommate and being the ultimate authority. I can understand why Harry has a little role confusion from time to time, but that’s probably inevitable. Usually he gets it. Because when my ethnic roots kick in, it’s not pretty. One of the common things heard around my house is: “Your X-Box is going to the pawn shop, Buddy!” I believe my best threat was to remove every electronic appliance from Harry’s room. Damn, it got quiet all of a sudden. But because the other side of my stubborn Irish exterior is a melting heart for the sweet kid who lives with me most of the time, this leads to some interesting discussions at my house. You remember the beer commercial, “Too Light, Too Heavy?” The young woman in the restaurant can’t get the waiter’s attention by waving at him, so she trips him the next time through. Too heavy. Harry came into my room the other night after one of those up-and-down electronic conversations. “Dad,” he said, “you’re just like the girl in the beer commercial. Too heavy.” Well. Life gets a little heavy at times, and in my virtual Facebook world, I have created something of a controversy by
posting an inadvertently serious phrase, “Life sucks.” It really doesn’t, as most of my friends advised me, even when your toe hurts as badly as mine did when I posted that line while riding out an attack of the gout. My Facebook note led to umpteen comments from three continents from friends as disparate as college days, high school days, newspaper days, and current days, about toe-day, a couple of toe-b or not toe-b’s, and other assorted forays into the humor mill, some more successful than others. I appreciated all the sentiments and laughed a few times. One of the components in the “life sucks” calculation is usually what’s going on around you, which means where you live. I have heard many people on many different occasions complain about Lake Charles, the small town nature of it, the fact that everybody knows your business, and even if they don’t know, they talk about it. I just had one of those weeks. But as I revved up my Web browser to check the want ads for Perth or Timbuktu or God knows where, I went to a neat little restaurant that just opened up around the corner from my house, The Toga Grill. As most of my faithful readers know, I have been a vegetarian for some time. That means I don’t have access to fast food, and most often end up cooking some combination of veggies to serve over rice or pasta. It gets old. But The Toga Grill is a Mediterranean place that has, thank God, falafel sandwiches, the Middle Eastern answer to the Big Mac. I have had a couple of them, and my mouth waters every time. On this particular day, when I was thinking about life sucking as I limped
Angelica Floyd (337) 302-4176 • Karen Hartfield #E2790 (337) 377-1157 PAGE 16
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 17
through the parking lot, wondering if there was a better place to live than Lake Charles, wondering when the HELL my TOE was going to quit hurting. . .I walked into the Toga Grill. . . and it was like Norm walking into Cheers. I actually knew everybody in the place. I was able to sit down with old buddy Brett Barham and his son Gavin, who, it turns out, has classes with Harry at Barbe. Perhaps we can work out a spying arrangement. I ran into my favorite “Bill the Bailiff ” from court, who had his whole family there
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partaking of the festivities. It was good to catch up with people I really like, great to get some tasty vegetarian fare that I didn’t have to cook myself, and even though still limping, I cruised out the door with a smile on my face, and said as I was leaving, “Bye, folks, I’ll see you later.” Bill the Bailiff said: “See ya on the flip.” Any writer, actor, or other performer will tell you that nothing sounds better to the soul than applause. A friend of mine using the tag line from my column sounded to
me like thousands of hands clapping. It was appreciated. It quickened my step. It lightened my mood. It unsucked my life. Lake Charles seemed a little bigger, a little brighter. My hunger was a little more satisfied. And Harry was a little more reasonable and doing better in school. Well, wait a minute. Let’s not go THAT far. But there’s always hope. And that’s the point. See you guys on the flip.
TJN
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
PAGE 17
The
Life
Thanksgiving Traditions: Making Memories for Your Family By Sara Blackwell
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4070 Nelson Road Suite 100 Lake Charles, LA PAGE 18
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
The holiday season is coming! Parents in particular need to be prepared mentally and physically for the chaos of it all. One thing that will help is to create family traditions for the holidays. Your children will forever remember them and possibly pass them down to their own children. Many of us, in fact, continue to practice the traditions of previous generations. The beauty of having your own family is that you can choose to continue traditions of old or start your own. Make sure you get the whole family involved.
Your Thanksgiving traditions can be as simple as a food dish or as complicated as a trip across the country to visit extended family. Of course, they may need to be modified every so often to meet your ever-changing needs. For example, as your children grow, they may balk at dressing up like Pilgrims and singing around the table! And some years, you may be forced to tighten the belt due to a changing financial situation. Stay flexible, but, at the same time, attempt to maintain the ideals of your traditions each year. Carrie Kennedy of Lake Charles is a mother of three children under the age of ten. She loves the holiday season and tries to use traditions to remind her children of the thoughtful reasons for each celebratory event. For Thanksgiving, Kennedy and her family eat a large, delicious dinner together. After their bellies are full, they sit together and pray for others in a very unique way. “One thing that we try to do is keep all of our Christmas cards from the year before. On Thanksgiving, we pray for all the families,” said Kennedy. “It’s great looking at all the picture cards and remembering the relationships
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and the people who mean so much to our family.” This loving tradition teaches children to care for and pray for others. Plus, it doesn’t cost anything, doesn’t take too much time and should not significantly change as the children grow. Jeremy Smith is married and has two young girls. His family has several traditions that are important and fun. “Thanksgiving always begins with a family breakfast and the Macy’s Parade,” he said. “We get together with a whole slew of extended family for dinner. But before that, we take out the annual Thanksgiving tree. “ The tree actually begins as a picture of a bare tree on a large poster board. “Each family member takes a leaf and writes items for which they are thankful,” he said. “Each leaf is taped onto the Thanksgiving tree.” After great food and desserts, each person takes a turn pulling a leaf off the tree and reads it aloud to the group. This includes everyone, and they all get to learn about each other’s lives. Robin Mead of the Sulphur area seems a little incredulous about her family’s Thanksgivings. Mead’s husband played football in high school and her four grown boys all play as well. “As you can imagine, our traditions center around the football games. In fact, it is more like a football holiday in my house than Thanksgiving,” she said. The Meads have a big dinner, like most families. But immediately after eating, the boys, wearing the colors of the particular team they want to win, rearrange the living room. “Some friends from the neighborhood, and some family come to our house for the game,” said Mead. “There’s a lot of beer, yelling at the television and loud, manly laughing. It’s actually very fun and the holiday would not be the same without it. God bless my rowdy boys!” Now, that’s a holiday full of testosterone! Regardless of what traditions you create or which ones you decide to carry over from your past, holidays are more enjoyable when you commit to them. I will always hold in my heart both the frivolous and the meaningful traditions that my parents, especially my mother, carried forth in my household. She created an atmosphere of memories and love that I hope to emanate in my own home. Talk to other family members; consider their interests; then, see what you come up with. Keep the ones that work and discard the ones that don’t. And make beautiful memories for your loved ones. TJN
Volume 1 • Issue 17
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
PAGE 19
By Lisa Yates
Lisa Tauzin, owner of Keyboard Arts Piano Studio
Keyboard Arts Piano Studio Has the Keys to Success Some people are more musically inclined than others, but that doesn’t mean you cannot learn to play the piano. “If you have a glimmer of a hint that you might want to take music lessons – follow that dream – don’t be afraid to try,” said Lisa Tauzin, owner of Keyboard Arts Piano Studio in Lake Charles. Tauzin, 53, said the most important aspect of learning how to play any new instrument, hobby, or art form is dedication and practice. “For example, I’m learning yoga,” she said. “I’m not very good, yet. I’m still a beginner.” She said it’s the same with musicianship. Musicianship is not embedded in our DNA, but is something that can be learned. While not everyone will become a concert pianist, anyone can learn to sit down and play a variety of music for enjoyment. Throughout her 30-year career as a piano teacher and business owner, Tauzin has helped hundreds of children and adults to discover the joys of playing the piano. She insists it’s never too late to learn. “One of my students is a lady I’ve been teaching for several years, who
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started as a total beginner after her retirement,” she said. Many of Tauzin’s adult students have successful careers and fit awkwardly into the role of beginner. “Adults put up more roadblocks – they doubt themselves more,” she said. She realizes it takes courage for successful people to put themselves in a situation of not succeeding by the same standards they are accustomed to. So, she tries to put her students at ease, to make them feel comfortable. Playing the piano is not only fun, but also it provides great exercise for the brain. In fact, learning to play the piano has been documented to help older adults stay mentally active. Tauzin said her adult students take lessons for a variety of reasons. “A lot started taking piano lessons when they were young, but quit and wish they had not quit,” she said. “Many of them say ‘I wish my parents would have made me stick with it.’ Others take lessons as a hobby – for relaxation. Lots of arthritic people say playing the piano is physically therapeutic.”
THE STUDIO Keyboard Arts Piano Studio offers lessons for children as young as two years old to adult senior citizens, and from beginners to advanced players. Individual and group instruction takes place at the studio located within Lake Charles Music, at 1000 E. Prien Lake Road in Lake Charles. Tauzin sees advanced, private students at her home studio in Lake Charles. Class lessons start at $70 per month; individual private lessons start at $100 per month. Rates vary depending on skill level; and, discounts for siblings are available. Call (337) 302-6842, or (337) 474-0430, for details. Students have digital keyboards to play in the studio; however, they need to have a five-octave keyboard on which to practice at home. Advanced students are required to have at least an 88-key digital keyboard for home practice – an acoustic is best for serious students. A commitment to practice 20-30 minutes a day, five days per week, is also required. The studio’s associate instructor is Gwen Auld. “Gwen is excellent with the young ones,” Tauzin said. YOUNG STUDENTS Piano lessons are probably the greatest gift that parents could give their child. The gift of music lasts a lifetime. While most music schools begin instruction at about six years of age, Tauzin has pre-preparatory pupils of
very young children – as young as two years old! “At age two we teach a prepreparatory piano course with a variety of rhythmic activities and movement,” she said. “By four years old, students are reading notes and developing motor skills, playing easy pieces by the time they are four and five years old.” Hearing … feeling … moving … singing … and playing music … Tauzin said children absorb and store musical patterns and concepts for enjoyment and growth in all of their musical endeavors. “Later it shows up in their playing,” she said. “They become confident performers, not nearly as nervous because they have been playing with and for their peers in the classroom every single week.” In addition, pediatric researchers have found evidence that when a child begins learning to play the piano, or takes up any musical instrument, this stimulates certain areas of the brain that controls their fine motor skills, memory and speech. Tauzin said the self-discipline and determination needed to practice a piano regimen on a regular basis gives children a special awareness about the process of learning that carries over into their school lives. “The body of evidence is overwhelming,” she said. “Studying music makes you smarter. There’s a spillover into academics. My music students excel in school. For example, I have a student who is doing extremely well in school. She not only plays the piano, but she also plays the violin and flute.”
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EAR TRAINING In the development of any musician – no matter the age or experience level – the importance of understanding the basics of ear training, perfect pitch and relative pitch is absolutely essential. Tauzin said the necessity of training the ear to hear definite musical tones and keys cannot be emphasized enough. “Ear training is pivotal,” she said. She said just the simple development of a musician’s ear can be an important catalyst in speeding up the learning process; and, it can be learned through simple ear training exercises.
After a lifetime of musical training and performing, Tauzin recommends and teaches the Harmony Road Music Course – an exclusive program that stresses the importance of ear training. “I’m teaching the way I wish I had been taught,” she said. PASSIONATE ABOUT THE PIANO Tauzin has spent a lifetime as a piano teacher. “I was passionate about the piano as a kid and never considered not being a music major. In fact, I didn’t know other majors existed,” she joked.
Tauzin’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in music education and piano teaching, and a master’s degree in piano performance from McNeese State University. She has also taught at McNeese as an adjunct professor; and, she was a symphony accompanist for approximately 20 years. “People were asking me to teach before I even got my undergraduate degree,” she said. “I always knew I wanted to teach. I’m still passionate about the piano and I love my job!”
TJN
LENTIL ANTI-CANCER SOUP ONE BOWL DAILY • 1 chicken breast organic (skinned and cut into cubes) • 1/4 lb. Shiitake mushrooms (fresh or dried) cut in bite size pieces • 8 oz. firm tofu (cubed) don’t use silken, it breaks apart to easily • 2 leeks (white part only) chopped • 2 stalks celery (chopped finely) • 1/2 POD garlic (minced) • 1/2 inch chunk fresh ginger (minced) • 48 oz. organic chicken broth (or water) • 1/2 lb. dried lentils (washed)
Saute organic chicken and tofu in extra virgin olive oil. Put All ingredients in a stock pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low for about 45 minutes. Add more liquid if necessary, I add a small amount of salt and red pepper. You can adjust the amounts of any and or all the ingredients as long as None are omitted! For each ingredient has a very important property for fighting cancer. In fact, it is known Both to prevent cancer as well as shrink a cancer tumor already evident in the body! It is a good idea for all to eat this daily forever! This recipe came from Dr. Cherry, M.D. in Houston.
10% OFF Any Store Purchase Coupon Expires ??/??/09 Volume 1 • Issue 17
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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If you have a recipe and story you would like to share, e-mail us at lauren@thejambalayanews.com
What’s Cookin’
Happy Turkey Day! There are many wonderful cooks in Lake Charles—and two of them happen to be on The Jambalaya News staff! Sales associates Karla Tullos and Lazette Proctor share some special recipes that have been in their families for years. The Taylor Family Favorite Contributed by Karla Tullos My grandmother Lena Taylor’s parents died young. She took on the responsibility of raising several siblings. This, of course, included cooking for the family. What a good cook she was! However, she never wrote her recipes down. If you asked her how to make something, she’d say ”Oh, just a pinch here of this and that.” Well, her cornbread dressing became such a tradition that she would make it for her friends and their families to have for Thanksgiving. No one was allowed in her kitchen while she cooked; however, her daughter Earline Taylor Pharr (my mother) managed to peek through the door and watch through the years, compiling a list of the ingredients so she could make it herself for her family. To this day, Maw Lena has no idea her recipe lives on!!!
“Maw Lena’s” Cornbread Dressing INGREDIENTS One 3 to 4 lb. chicken 4 envelopes of yellow cornbread mix ½ stalk of celery 2 white onions 1 stalk of green onions ½ bunch of parsley 2 sticks butter Salt, black pepper and red pepper to taste 1 tablespoon sage 4 slices of white bread PREPARATION Cut and skin chicken. Boil until tender, using a little salt. Reserve the liquid stock. Let cool, then PAGE 22
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Lena and her daughter Earline Taylor
de-bone chicken and grind*. Bake cornbread using four envelopes of yellow cornbread mix. Next, grind ½ stalk of celery and the green onions --use bottoms and part of tops. Chop parsley fine. Sauté the above ingredients in butter until soft. Add the ground chicken and broth, and let it come to a good boil. Add more salt if needed, and black and red pepper to taste, along with 1 tablespoon of sage. Then, add four slices of white bread to the juices and boil. Add the cooked cornbread and mix well. Put all of above into a baking pan and bake in a 350-degree oven until thoroughly heated *Grind means grind, not chopped! Volume 1 • Issue 17
Luscious Leftovers Contributed by Lazette Procter Everyone knows that I love to cook. The holidays are a great excuse to for me to get in that kitchen and create wonderful dishes for my family and friends. This recipe is from a collection of recipes that I have from the 1960s. I’ve used it for many years for leftover turkey or chicken. My family really enjoys it as an alternative to eating turkey sandwiches for days after a holiday. I know you’ll love it!
Lazette with her grandchildren, Vaughan and Maci.
Turkey Tetrazinni INGREDIENTS 8 ounces spaghetti 2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms ¼ cup butter or margarine 2 tablespoons flour 2 cups chicken stock 1 cup heavy cream 3 tablespoons white wine 1 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg 3 cups cooked turkey, cut into pieces ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
and half to the spaghetti-mushroom combination. Place the spaghetti combination in a greased 9x13 baking dish. Pour the turkey mixture over the spaghetti. Sprinkle top with cheese and bake at 375 for 20 to 25 minutes, until lightly browned. Serves 8 Enjoy! TJN
PREPARATION Cook spaghetti following directions on package. Rinse in cold water and drain. Sauté mushrooms in 2 tablespoons butter until tender. Combine mushrooms with spaghetti. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in saucepan and blend in flour. Add chicken stock and cook, stirring constantly until mixture thickens. Remove from heat. Add cream, wine, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add half the sauce to the turkey
Hope Therapy Center Hope Therapy Center is a comprehensive outpatient clinic located on East Prien Lake Road here in Lake Charles. We provide physical, occupational and speech therapy services for patients of all ages. We love what we do and are excited for the opportunity to provide services for you or your family member. If you wish to know more about our programs, check out our website at www.hopetherapycenter.net From left to right: Jill Willis,PTA; Sonya M. Brooks, Owner, MA, CCC-SLP; Kim B. Anderson, Owner, PT, DPT; Mika Doucet, LOTR, MOT; and seated Emily D. Pelican, MS, CF-SLP.
Left to right: Cindy Istre, Office Manager and Cyndy Lirette, Administrative Assistant.
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
PAGE 23
By Lauren de Albuquerque
I
’ve always liked Thanksgiving. It’s the holiday calm before the holiday storm (Christmas). You don’t have to do anything except show up and eat, or stay home and eat. Presents aren’t involved, so there’s no real stress—unless you have to go over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house, and there happens to be an ice storm. Or, it’s the day before Thanksgiving and you and 5 million other people are at the airport re-enacting the last airlift out of Vietnam. When I was growing up, Thanksgiving was often family reunion time. We would get together with our relatives from New York, New Jersey, Maine and Connecticut and have a big dinner, usually in a private room at a restaurant. Since Massachusetts was central to the above-mentioned states, we generally met there. One year, we celebrated at a resort in the Berkshire Mountains
in the western part of the state. But our favorite place was a now-defunct restaurant called the King’s Grant in the suburbs of Boston. They had spacious function rooms to accommodate private parties, and the food was delicious. My mother always took home movies (that’s what they were called back then) at these family extravaganzas, and I remember one Thanksgiving in particular. It was the mid-60’s, when Nancy Sinatra’s hit “These Boots Were Made for Walking,” was all over the airwaves. Of course, I had a pair of white go-go boots, as did practically every female between the ages of five and 50 at the time. The other big fashion statement in The Swinging Sixties was vinyl. So, my holiday outfit consisted of a black and white corduroy dress with white vinyl collar and cuffs, black tights and go-go boots. One of my Connecticut cousins didn’t have boots, and I remember her looking at mine longingly. I thought I was so cool. I know you all have your own memories and traditions. However you celebrate, let’s take a look at the
Photo by Michelle LaVoie
Vinton Elementary School Pre-K students Tucker Corbello, left, Derreanna Barefield, Kaitlyn Pinder and David Arvie Jr., on a field trip to CM Farms in Reeves, La., with their teacher, Bridget Davis (not pictured.) PAGE 24
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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some fun facts about Thanksgiving that may be interesting to share around your table this year. Gobble Gobble Minnesota is tops in turkey production, with an expected 45.5 million raised this year, followed by North Carolina (37.5 million), Arkansas (28 million), Missouri (21 million), Virginia (16.4 million) and California (15 million). These six states together will probably account for about two-thirds of U.S. turkeys produced in 2009. The turkeys produced in 2008 together weighed 7.9 billion pounds and were valued at $4.5 billion. When we celebrated Thanksgiving at home, I remember my mother taking the wishbone out of the carcass when she was serving the leftovers and letting the bone dry out for a day or two so we could make a wish. The timing had to be just right: If it didn’t dry out long enough, the bone was too soft to break; if we waited too long, it would be too brittle and break into pieces. Known as a “lucky break,“ the tradition of tugging on either end of a fowl’s bone to win the larger piece and its accompanying “wish” dates back to the Etruscans of 322 B.C. The Romans brought the tradition with them when they conquered England, and the English colonists Volume 1 • Issue 17
carried this tradition to America. Each year since 1947, the National Turkey Federation and the Poultry and Egg National Board have given a turkey to the President of the United States at a White House ceremony—and it was eventually eaten. It wasn’t until the first Thanksgiving of President George H.W. Bush’s tenure, in 1989, that a turkey was officially pardoned for the first time. All presidents since Bush senior have continued the pardons. Through 2004, the turkeys were given to a petting zoo in Virginia. Since 2005, the pardoned turkeys have been sent to either Disneyland or Walt Disney World, where they serve as the honorary grand marshals of Disney’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Everyone loves a parade Speaking of parades, the first American Thanksgiving Day parade was held in 1920, organized by Gimbel’s Department Store in Philadelphia—not Macy’s, as most people believe. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade tradition actually began in 1924. Although it was held on Thanksgiving, it was initially called The Macy’s Christmas Day Parade. Store employees and professional entertainers marched from 145th Street in Harlem to Macy’s flagship
3204 RYAN ST., LAKE CHARLES • 337-433-6200 NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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store on 34th Street dressed in colorful costumes. There were floats, professional bands and even live animals borrowed from the Central Park Zoo. In 1927, the name was changed and the live animals were replaced with balloon animals after the children became frightened of the lions and tigers. The parade has grown into an annual event enjoyed by more than 46 million people each year—in person and on TV. I’ll never forget the first time I saw it in color, after all those years of watching it in black and white! That sport Throughout the country, football on Thanksgiving Day is as big a part of the celebration as the turkey and trimmings. Dating back to the first intercollegiate football championship held on Thanksgiving Day in 1876, traditional holiday football rivalries have become so popular that a New York Herald reporter back in the day called Thanksgiving
“a holiday granted by the State and the Nation to see a game of football.” He was being sarcastic; he was bemoaning the fact that a solemn day of giving thanks was being replaced by sports. The National Football League’s Thanksgiving Classic is a series of games played during the holiday. It has been a regular occurrence since the league’s inception in 1920. Since 2006, three games are played every Thanksgiving. The first two are hosted by the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys, with one team from each conference playing either team. With the exception of the World War II years from 1939-1944, the NFL has scheduled football games on Thanksgiving every year since 1934. The Detroit Lions are the only team to have hosted a Thanksgiving Day game every season that the tradition has been honored. TJN
(337) 477-2888
1 0 9 W. L A G R A N G E , L A K E C H A R L E S PAGE 26
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 17
By Lauren de Albuquerque
Growing up in the state where the Pilgrims landed means that I’ve made many visits to the town of Plymouth. I’ve seen Plymouth Rock, have been aboard the Mayflower II, and toured Plimoth Plantation. The Plymouth waterfront is filled with shops and restaurants, and there are museums and historical homes galore. Plimoth Plantation is a re-creation of the small farming town built by the English colonists seven years after they arrived— the first permanent English settlement in New England. The village consists of modest timberframed houses, fragrant raised-bed gardens, well-tended livestock—and townspeople.
The people are costumed role players who have taken on the names, viewpoints and life histories of the people who actually lived in the colony in 1627. You can watch them go about their daily tasks, such as cooking, farming, etc., and ask them questions, which they will answer in the vernacular of their day. It really is a unique opportunity to explore the 17th-century perspective of the English who traveled across the Atlantic. When Phil and I moved to Southeastern Massachusetts, we were only about a half hour or so from Plymouth. A tenant of ours worked at Plimoth Plantation. Every morning we would see a Pilgrim getting into a Honda Civic. It was quite amusing.
Call our sales department for sponsorship information!
(337) 436-7800 715 Kirby St, Lake Charles Volume 1 • Issue 17
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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The Mayflower II Visiting the Mayflower II is an extraordinary experience. The details of the ship (solid oak timbers, tarred hemp rigging, wood and horn lanterns and hand-colored maps) have all been carefully recreated to give you a sense of what the original 17th-century vessel was like. The experience is all the more extraordinary when you realize that this ship—a full-scale reproduction of the original Mayflower—actually sailed from England over 50 years ago to Plymouth. Other than the addition of a few modern conveniences such as electric lights, the vessel is a faithful replica. It is so faithful that many felt the ship would never make it to Plymouth since it has no motors and had no escorts. The replica was built in the mid1950s, in a collaboration between an Englishman, Warwick Charlton and Plimoth Plantation as a symbol of friendship between the United Kingdom and the USA for collaboration in World War II. The builders combined the museum’s ship blueprints with construction by old traditional methods of English shipbuilders. The result is amazing.
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Harvest food You’re probably wondering if you can eat Thanksgiving dinner at Plimoth Plantation. You certainly can. My family talked about going, but my mother thought it would be too crowded so we never did. But there are four different meal options for diners to choose from on that day, from a casual meal in the café to an authentic Victorian-era Thanksgiving feast, which is booked months in advance. But the most unique is the 1627 Harvest Dinner, which is held weekends in the fall. You can spend the evening with the “residents” of the English Village at a groaning board filled with early American faire, including Mussels Seeth’d with Parsley and Beer, a Pottage of Cabbage, Leeks & Onions, Stewed Pompion (pumpkin), a Sweet Pudding of Native Corn, and of course, A Dish of Turkey, Sauc’d. You’ll use the table manners of the day, which doesn’t include some utensils that you’re used to. Imagine breaking bread with some Pilgrims? Sounds like fun! TJN
Volume 1 • Issue 17
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Or visit www.savvyandsage.com.
Volume 1 • Issue 17
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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By Lisa Yates
News . a y a l e a Jamb ct gift guid e h T r fe op. ou dr ble the pe ur list to y l il t em n yo hop d to s ants to ass veryone o e e n o e h , but n local merc l items for e r e h ia r n is ec ou e. nd sp seaso ew of receiv a f y o a e a t u d h li is iq it o at The h med up w ide has un o give as it for th t u a g n e G t u in t f s s if a h G h c row as mu oliday start b le d n a Our H ure it’s just t s ction, n find a lit e e s k a is m eve in th tings , you may s li e h t s ! k out know erson p in Chec gift. Who elf. s store rs ct these per fe ing for you it is v th nd some p in a o t s – eas gift id e r o For m
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 17
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For Men
1. Luminox Field Time Date 1800 Series Men’s Watch ($475) is created with a unique Swiss self-powered illumination system, making it more visible and easier to read in low or no light. Available at Benchworks Jewelers, an authorized dealer of Luminox, manufacturer of the world’s finest dive watches for Navy Seals and the U.S. Air Force. (337) 478-0477.
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2. Harley-Davidson Bar & Shield Men’s Watch by Bulova ($75.95); available at Harley-Davidson of Lake Charles. (337) 436-0022. 3. NFL Legends 6” Action Figures – pictured is Archie Manning - ($10.95); available at Retro Sports. (337) 474-9565. 4. LSU fitted hat by Zephyr ($15.95) is officially licensed by the NCAA. Available at Retro Sports. (337) 474-9565.
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5. McNeese/LSU “The House Divided” license plate ($21.95). The teams’ logos are laser cut onto a durable mirrored acrylic 6” x 12” license plate. Available at Retro Sports. (337) 474-9565.
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For Women
6. McNeese Gift Set ($39.95) includes a pen, business card holder and quartz desk clock – all with the official NCAA logo. Available at Retro Sports. (337) 474-9565.
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7. City or country, girls love these sassy Peacock Cowboy Rain Boots ($69) by däv. Don’t forget to top off the look with däv’s matching umbrella ($36); available at Social Denim. (337) 433-3670.
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8. Flirty Little Secret products contain powerful pheromones! Firming cream ($32); bronzing cream ($32); candles ($36); and body butter ($26); available at Donna’s Lingerie & Swimwear. (337) 477-1804. 9. The Miché Bag is a new line of designer purses that allow you to change the look of your handbag by simply changing the shell! A Miché purse is a bag with a magnetic surface; it allows for different covers to be used on the outer shell. One bag plus three shells is $103, at Benchworks Jewelers. (337) 478-0477.
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10. Genuine leather handbag “Silver Lightning Bucket” ($160); available at Harley-Davidson of Lake Charles. (337) 436-0022. 11. Ladies’ belts by Whimsical Original, with designs including LSU ($166); Fleur de lis ($126); and, Snake Skin ($167); available at Expressions. (337) 433-6200. Volume 1 • Issue 17
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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For Children
12. Sunsout Floating Over Sisters 1,000 piece jigsaw puzzle ($16) – fun for the whole family! Available at Quilts Bayou. (337) 477-9322. 13. Hog Bank. Crystal Bar & Shield ($40); available at HarleyDavidson of Lake Charles. (337) 436-0022.
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14. Kojo the Croc is a threein-one pet – a plush animal, pillow and blanket! ($32) Available at Brousse’s A Child’s World. (337) 439-5484. 15. Darrell the Duck Rocker ($114); available at Brousse’s A Child’s World. (337) 439-5484.
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16. Ladybug Rain Boots ($25.99); available at Brousse’s A Child’s World. (337) 439-5484.
18 17. The Pink Unicorn Hopper Ball ($25.99) is great exercise and help’s build your child’s coordination skills. Available at Brousse’s A Child’s World. (337) 439-5484. 18. Baseball Wooden Belly Bank ($51.49); available at Brousse’s A Child’s World. (337) 439-5484.
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19. Wooden Stacking Pull-Along Zoo by Melissa & Doug ($19.99); available at Brousse’s A Child’s World. (337) 439-5484.
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 17
For the Home
20. Engraving makes it special! Cobalt blue wine stopper with engraving ($28) and picture frames (starting at $15); available at Angels Awards and Billiards. (337) 439-1002. 21. La-Tee-Da! Effusion Lamps (starting at $49.95) offer a new, completely unique method of delivery that is stronger and faster than candles, safe to operate and economical to use – the fragrant oil burns at about an ounce per hour for a full size lamp. Use Orleans Effusion Oil ($12.99) with many scents to choose from at Benchworks Jewelers. (337) 478-0477.
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22. Officially licensed Saints 10” x 12” Clock ($29.95) is uniquely shaped and has dynamic full color graphics with a durable matte finish. The clock has a high quality quartz movement with a sweep second hand and comes with battery. Available at Retro Sports. (337) 474-9565. 23. Table lamp by Stein World Decorative Lighting (reg. $199, sale price $99.99) at Gulf Coast Carpeting and Decorating Center. (337) 477-2266.
For the Experience • Max Air Helicopters offers a variety of tour packages sure to please the adventure enthusiasts in your life! So, for the special gifts they will talk about for a lifetime, call (337) 5832742, or (337) 802-4209; (price on request/group discounts available). • Give the gift of travel in the form of tickets, or gift certificates, from GlobeTrek Travel. Call (337) 477-0835, for more information.
• Garvin Nuvi 255 wide screen GPS system will get you where you need to go! ($219); available at Ship to Shore Co. (337) 474-0730. • Let them eat steak at Pujo St. Café. Gift certificates make great gifts for friends, family and colleagues! Call (337) 439-2054, to see what else is on the menu.
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Where to Shop for These Items Angels Awards and Billiards 3045 Ernest St. in Lake Charles (337) 439-1002
Harley-Davidson of Lake Charles 2120 Broad St. in Lake Charles (337) 436-0022
Benchworks Jewelers 238 W. Prien Lake Rd. in Lake Charles (337) 478-0477
Max Air Helicopters 7000 Southland Field Road in Sulphur (337) 583-2742, or (337) 802-4209
Brousse’s A Child’s World 542 W. Prien Lake Rd. in Lake Charles (337) 439-5484
Pujo St. Café 901 Ryan St. in Lake Charles (337) 439-2054
Donna’s Lingerie & Swimwear 3518 Ryan St. in Lake Charles (337) 477-1804
Quilts Bayou 327 W. Prien Lake Rd. in Lake Charles (337) 477-9322
Expressions 3204 Ryan St. in Lake Charles (337) 433-6200
Retro Sports 935 E. McNeese St. in Lake Charles (337) 474-9565
GlobeTrek Travel 3310 Creole St. in Lake Charles (337) 477-0835
Ship to Shore Co. 4313 Lake St. in Lake Charles (337) 474-0730
Gulf Coast Carpeting and Decorating Center 5500 Common St. in Lake Charles (337) 477-2266
Social Denim 706 Ryan St. in Lake Charles (337) 433-3670
Volume 1 • Issue 17
TJN
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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935 E. McNeese St., Lake Charles, LA PAGE 34
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 17
The holiday season is here! Southwest Louisiana may not have snow, but it has a whole lot of fun in store for everyone. Take a look at what’s coming up soon in your neck of the woods!
CHRISTMAS IN DEQUINCY Dec. 5 – Parade The streets of DeQuincy will be filled with joy and festive cheer for the annual DeQuincy Christmas parade winding down the streets of DeQuincy at 11 a.m. on Sat., Dec. 5. Taste of the Holidays Experience visions of sugarplums during the Taste of the Holidays at the JCE Center, 500 Grand Ave., sponsored by the Civic Club. Taste of the Holidays will begin at 5 p.m., and you won’t find a more scrumptious array of cookies, candies and luscious desserts this side of Candyland! There will also be food to stick to your ribs such as étouffée, cornbread dressing, rice dressing and much more. Tour of Homes Along with visiting beautifully decorated homes, the historic DeQuincy Railroad will also be on your travels. Tickets are $10 for admission to both the Taste and the Tour, and can be purchased at City Savings Bank in DeQuincy. For more information, call Heather Royer at (337) 513-5124. Fireworks You will not want to miss a riveting fireworks display at the ballpark near the museum at 8 p.m.
Volume 1 • Issue 17
Dec. 8 – KCS Holiday Train The KCS Holiday Train and Santa will be waiting for the kids at the station at the DeQuincy Railroad Museum. The fun begins at 4 p.m. Call 768-8241 for more information.
HOLIDAY FUN IN IOWA Dec. 12 – Parade The Iowa Merchants will usher in the 2009 Holiday Season with their Annual Christmas Parade on Sat., Dec. 12. The parade will start at 2 p.m. with the route beginning at J.I. Watson Middle School and ending at the Factory Stores of America Mall. There will be a surprise Grand Marshal for the parade. Christmas Program The Annual Christmas program will be held at the Iowa Community Center, at 6 p.m. with area churches and schools participating. Hot chocolate will be served.
JOY IN JENNINGS Dec. 5 – Christmas Festival & Gumbo Cookoff Sample some of the best chicken and sausage gumbo in the area at the 12th Annual Christmas Festival & Gumbo Cookoff. There will be live entertainment and fireworks. Free admission. Call (337) 821-5532 for more information. NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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LIGHT UP LAKE CHARLES Dec. 5 – Holiday Character Dining Enter a magical castle glistening with icicles and falling snow surrounded by toy soldiers. Children will join their favorite storybook characters for an unforgettable experience. Character meals are $25 per person. Seatings are at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Seating is limited, and reservations must be made. Admission is $25. Event presented by The Children’s Theatre. Parade Santa Claus is coming to town during the annual Light up the Lake Christmas Celebration! The Jolly Old Elf will take to the streets of Lake Charles during the annual Christmas parade, starting at 2 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 5. Local groups, including schools, businesses, neighborhoods, organizations and performing groups will join Santa for a journey from Pine Street, south on Lakeshore to Clarence and north on Ryan to Pine Street. Lake Charles Toyota/Scion will award prizes for the top two floats and marching bands, as well as the bestdecorated vehicle, and best specialty group. Families Helping Families will serve as Grand Marshals. Santa’s Workshop Santa’s Workshop will take place in the
Civic Center Coliseum from 3-5:30 p.m. Kids of all ages are invited to don their antlers and light-up noses to join in the reindeer games and ride the Christmas Train. Prizes and gifts will be on the agenda with arts & crafts, food, activities, storytelling, music and much more.
the City of Lake Charles at 491-9159 or www.cityoflakecharles.com, or the Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau at 436-9588.
Christmas Concert The Community Band Christmas Concert begins at 3:30 p.m. on the second floor mezzanine. Gather around the front lawn from 5-6 p.m. for more entertainment before Mayor Randy Roach flips the switch to light up the Civic Center grounds. Also, your carriage awaits for $5 rides along the lakefront. Note: The traditional lighted boat parade will be suspended from this year’s agenda due to the lakefront beautification process.
Dec. 12 – Parade Santa and his elves will march into Moss Bluff on Sat., Dec. 12, in the Moss Bluff Christmas Parade at 2 p.m. The parade begins at Market Basket and will travel down Highway 378 to Park Road, turn down Park Road to Recreation Boulevard and then finish at the Recreation Park. For more information, contact Don Manuel, (337) 855-7183.
MAKING MERRY IN MOSS BLUFF
CELEBRATE IN SULPHUR
Fireworks The evening will be topped off at 6:30 p.m. by the Fireworks Extravaganza sponsored by the Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau. An area behind the Civic Center will be reserved for spectators. Tune in to 92.9 The Lake for the music simulcast. With the exception of carriage rides, all events are free. Parade entries will be accepted through Wed., Dec. 2. For entry forms or more information, please contact
Dec. 3-5 Holiday House On Dec. 3, enjoy an evening of good food, great music and an amazing holiday market from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Brimstone Historical Society’s Holiday House Preview Party. Tickets are $35
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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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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
Volume 1 • Issue 17
per person. On Dec. 4-5, the Holiday House will be open 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. Admission is $3 per day. For more info, call 527-0357. The Holiday House festivities feature a tea room and performances by Our Lady of Prompt Succor School’s choir from 11 – 11:45 a.m., and Sulphur High School Choir, noon-12:45 p.m. on Friday, followed by The Bayou Jazz Kings from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m., and Barry Badon from 7 – 9 p.m. on Friday. Breakfast with Santa will be back this year, starting Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. Historic buildings of Sulphur will be featured on commemorative ornaments, which will be available for purchase. The ornaments are collector’s editions, made by the same company that makes ornaments for the White House. The ornaments will be on sale at the festival for $17 or the set of five for $75. The set includes those from 2005 -2008. There are a limited number of these available, so be sure you get them while they’re here!
Volume 1 • Issue 17
DEC. 5 – BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Have “Breakfast with Santa!” Tickets are on sale now at $5, and include a pancake breakfast courtesy of Pitt Grill in Sulphur, and a photo with Santa! Advance tickets must be purchased at the Henning Cultural Center PARADE The sky will be a kaleidoscope of color with the Sulphur Kiwanis Balloons on Parade on Sat., Dec 5, at 3 p.m. The parade will start at W.W. Lewis Middle School and come down Cypress Street. Grab a comfortable spot later that evening and enjoy the 8th annual Spectacle of Lights at 6 p.m., where there is always a 100 percent chance of snow in the forecast along with Sulphur’s biggest fireworks display. DEC. 11 – YULETIDE PROMENADE Also, you will not want to miss the Sulphur “Yuletide Promenade” from 6-8 p.m. on Thurs., Dec. 11! Several Sulphur stores will be open past their normal closing hours for some late-night shopping! For more information on all these events, call the Henning Cultural Center at (337) 527-0357.
YULETIDE CHEER IN VINTON DEC. 3- 18 DELTA DOWNS CHARITY TREE DECORATING CONTEST Delta Downs Casino in Vinton invites the public to come and vote on local charities’ unique Christmas tree decorations as they compete for up to $10,000 in cash and prizes. Closing ceremonies are Dec. 18, at 7 p.m. For more information, call (800) 589-7441. DEC. 4 – VINTON CHRISTMAS PARADE The town of Vinton has exciting festivities planned for its parade at 5 p.m. followed by hot chocolate, goodies and a visit from Old St. Nicholas. It will be held at 5 p.m. in downtown Vinton. For more information, call (337) 589-7913.
WASSAILING IN WESTLAKE DEC. 12 – PARADE Everyone in town is bustling about getting ready for the Westlake Christmas Parade on Sat., Dec. 12, through the heart of downtown at 4 p.m. Candy and Christmas fare will fly through the air, and spectators will be dazzled by the Christmas spirit in Westlake. The parade, sponsored by the West Cal Kiwanis, will roll down Sampson Street. Afterwards, you won’t want to miss a lighting ceremony at city hall with caroling and hot chocolate with Santa. TJN
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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Elly May Clampett Speaks to Retired Teachers By Lisa Yates
Beverly Hillbillies’ TV star, Donna Douglas, spoke to an enthusiastic crowd of fans, Nov. 2, as she addressed the Calcasieu-Cameron Retired Teachers Association challenging them to continue sharing their wisdom with young people. Douglas, who is best-known for her role as Elly May Clampett in the long-running television series The Beverly Hillbillies, engaged members of the organization for more than an hour at the group’s monthly meeting at the Pioneer Club in Lake Charles. The thrust of her wide-ranging speech to the luncheon was how sticking to key values and principles can help you get through challenging times. “I knew if I just kept doing the right thing, God would take care of me,” she said. Growing up in tiny Pride, in East Baton Rouge Parish, Douglas never dreamed of becoming an actress – she planned on playing semi-pro softball. Instead, she became a young wife and mother. She said the marriage ended; and, she strug-
gled to find employment with little education. Then, a friend encouraged her to enter a beauty contest, which she won. She went on to win the titles “Miss Baton Rouge” and, in 1957, “Miss New Orleans.” Winning those titles, Douglas decided she could “maybe get a job up there in New York,” even though she’d never been farther north than Shreveport. Douglas believed that if she would do her very best, God would take care of her. “As soon as I made that commitment, things started to happen,” she said. She found work modeling in New York. Douglas also met many men who wanted to do everything for her. Even though she was a naïve country girl, she understood those offers came with strings attached. Douglas stood by her values. “God met me where I was,” she said, and she needed work. “God asked, ‘What can you do?’ Well, I could smile; I had a few pictures taken.” Using only those simple abilities, she found work that paid well on TV game shows as an “elbow grabber” – a person who walked guests onstage, smiled and step backed. HER BIG BREAK Douglas was featured as the “Letters Girl” on The Perry Como Show in 1957, and as the “Billboard Girl” on The Steve Allen Show in 1959. She said these and other TV appearances led New York photographers and newspaper reporters to award her the “Miss By-line” crown, which she wore on The Ed Sullivan Show.
Donna Douglas speaks to the CalcasieuCameron Retired Teachers Association PAGE 38
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Douglas said this was her big break. Her picture appeared in all of the newspapers, which got the attention of a producer in Los Angeles who wanted her to come out for a screen test. “I had been in acting class all of two weeks at that point,” she said. Douglas got the chance to audition for The Beverly Hillbillies, where she had to milk a goat! She said her farming experience in Louisiana came in handy. “I had milked cows before,” she said. “I figured cows were equipped the same, so I just went over and did it.” She did and was chosen out of 500 girls to play the part of Elly May. Douglas became a major TV star thanks to the series, which ran from 1962-1971 – one of the longest-running series in television history and the No. 1 show in America its first two years. A devout Christian, Douglas credited her faith in God for her success. She said without strong values, she might never have landed the role of Elly May. Douglas said in New York she met three women – key people – who influenced her life. “These three women taught me and shared wonderful principles and gave me a good foundation,” she said. TJN
Calcasieu Police Jury President Hal McMillin pays tribute to his first grade teacher Pope Adams during the November meeting of the CalcasieuCameron Retired Teachers Association. Volume 1 • Issue 17
By Steve Springer M.D.
Indirect costs amount to $58 billion (disability, work loss, premature mortality). The cost of caring for someone with diabetes is $1 out of every $5 in total healthcare costs in this country. • Final thoughts Sharing information, acting on that information, learning more about the problem, and giving of your time and/or resources will help us all confront this disease. It has been shown in that in patients with pre-diabetes that as little as a 5-10 percent reduction in body weight coupled with 30 minutes of moderate physical activity can produce up to a 60 percent reduction in the development of diabetes. Now, that’s a stat worth knowing. Spread the word!
TJN
November is American Diabetes Month One of the first articles I wrote for The Jambalaya News was about the “ABC’s of Diabetes,” in which I outlined some of the targets we docs look at when treating the diabetic patient. November is American Diabetes Month, so I find it hard not to share the shocking facts that could possibly affect you or your family. We have to be very aware of this disease and respect the magnitude of the problem. Most people have now heard of gastric bypass surgery and we all know obesity is a national problem. Unfortunately, the bad guy behind the curtain of obesity is adult onset diabetes and the associated insulin resistance it brings. So let’s answer a few questions: • How many people are affected? Nearly 24 million people have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Another 57 million people have pre-diabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. One out of every three children will face a future with diabetes if current trends continue. • What could it really do to me? The death rate from diabetes continues to climb. Since 1987, the death rate due to diabetes has increased by 45 percent, while the death rates due to cancer, heart disease, and stroke have declined. About 60-70 percent of people with diabetes have mild to severe forms of nerve damage that could result in pain in the feet or hands, slowed digestion, sexual dysfunction, and other nerve problems. The rate of amputation for people with diabetes is 10 times higher than for people without diabetes. Two out of three people with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke. Diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults. Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure. • What does it really cost us? The total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the United States is $174 billion. Direct medical costs reach $116 billion, and the average medical expenditure among people with diabetes is 2.3 times higher than those without the disease.
Volume 1 • Issue 17
Dru Sonnier – Associate An Independent Associate Representing Aflac
337-515-9615 drusilla_sonnier@us.aflac.com
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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By T.C. Elliott
The voice of Delta Downs – Don Stevens
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As a child—being an obvious victim of local TV commercials back in the 70s—I can remember wanting to see the horse races at Delta Downs. My parents always told me that it wasn’t something for kids to see. I never understood why. As a child, I had no concept of betting on horses, or gaming, for that matter. I was just a kid who wanted to see the fast horses with their neat costumes and root for my favorite color, or whichever horse looked the coolest. It took me over 30 years, but by God, I finally did it. I attended my first horse race at Delta Downs. Even though I didn’t bet, I still enjoyed the heck out of the races. I always remember my mother using the expression, “Hold your horses!” The only
thing holding my horses now was the starting gate at Delta Downs. Charged with electricity, the gate tore open like a bolt of lightning. Flashing to life, it unleashed its furious payload of a 10 horsepower storm. And the return of a race called horse sounded like a rolling thunderclap over the rain-stained skies of Vinton. The tumultuous clamoring of hooves became the pulse of the muddy, saturated track of Delta Downs on the rainy opening day of Oct. 14, 2009. The voice of Delta Downs If this track, which first opened on Sept. 20, 1973, could speak, it would sound like Delta Downs track announcer Don Stevens. He is the voice of Delta Downs.
When he’s not announcing or handicapping the races or hosting his own TV show on the Web, Stevens does a little bit of media relations (the latter meaning that he has to sit in a room with the likes of me). After pestering him for some inside scoop on a winning horse, I listened to him and was enthralled with his knowledge of “The Sport of Kings,” which has been around for centuries; and particularly, his knowledge of Delta Downs. “Delta Downs actually originated in a town called St. Joseph, Louisiana in 1964,” he said. “A man by the name of Lee Berwick built the original track on his ranch or farm because he loved quarter horses and he wanted a place to run them. Other owners from around the state caught wind of this and they had 1,500 people there on
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Photo by Charles Sonnier
opening day—so it was not a small thing.” The original Delta Downs in St. Joseph consisted of a straight-line track, due to the fact that originally, only quarter horses were raced. Quarter horses are the “drag racers” of the horseracing world, so an ovalshaped track was not needed originally. The name “Delta Downs” came about due to St. Joseph’s proximity with the Mississippi River delta. When the owner eventually found land in Vinton in the 70s, they decided to keep the name, even though there is no river delta near Vinton. “The Delta Downs you know and love today was originally built on 240 acres that the owner purchased in the 70s,” Stevens said. “He built barns on the back side of the track, a grandstand, gates—all the amenities they did not have at the original Delta Downs-right here in Vinton, and that’s where it’s been ever since.” Delta Downs is actually celebrating an anniversary, with this year marking its 45 years of existence. However, only 36 of those years have been in Vinton. Nonetheless, on Dec. 6, Delta Downs will celebrate with the richest night of racing in the state of Louisiana with Boyd Gaming’s Delta Jackpot Stakes and Delta Princess Stakes, whose share will be from a purse of $1 million or $750,000, respectively. Volume 1 • Issue 17
The world’s smallest track Horse racing is an international sport with worldly appeal that has been in America since the 17th century. And Americans like their tracks big. Belmont Park in New York, the largest track in the country, measures a mile and a half from finish line to finish line. But among the 100 or so racetracks here in the United States, Delta Downs is actually one of the smallest—which means that Delta Downs is one of the smallest racetracks in the world! “Tracks have their own personality. We’re only 3/4 of a mile from finish line to finish line, so that makes us small. In racing, anything under a mile is nicknamed a ‘Bull Ring,’” said Stevens. “But it makes for some interesting races, some tight turns. And the jockeys have to be extremely skilled in doing what they do. Things happen a lot quicker on a smaller track. Some folks think the smaller tracks make it more exciting. That makes the track here at Delta kind of unique in that way, and it makes racing a lot of fun to watch.” “We don’t just put on racing here,” said Stevens. “We actually put on a four hour live TV show, and I get emails from all over the world from people who watch us on our Web site at www.deltadowns.com.”
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Charlie Wharton
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TJN
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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The Silliness of Pre-Season Rankings There are 347 Division I basketball programs in the NCAA and, recently, Rivals.com decided to rank all of them from best to worst. Topping the list is the Kansas
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Jayhawks, a team frequently mentioned as a contender for the national championship. Sitting at the bottom of the list is the New Jersey Institute of Technology, a team frequently ridiculed for winning one game (combined) in the last two seasons. Obviously the McNeese State Cowboys sit somewhere among the other 345 teams. Where, you ask? Well, if you were making an educated guess, you would have to factor in a few facts. On the plus side, McNeese returns its leading scorer in Diego Kapelan, its
leading assist guy in C.J. Collins and a potential force in the paint in 6foot-9 Elbryan Neal. On the minus side, McNeese lost second-leading scorer John Pichon and leading shotblocker and opponent-terrifier Kleon Penn. And even with Pichon and Penn and Kapelan, the Cowboys still finished 11-18 last season. Okay. So, you’ve got both sides of the argument. You’ve taken the facts, poured them into an Erlenmeyer flask and, using a titration, you’ve taken the team’s Ph and come up with a number between 1 and 347. What did you get? Definitely not in the top 25. Probably not in the top 50-100. Something like 200? 250?
Well, you’re wrong. How about 305? That’s right; Rivals.com has the McNeese Cowboys ranked as the 305th best team in the nation, one slot behind Centenary.
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No offense to my wife’s alma mater, but come on. Really? What’s worse, a quick scan through the list shows how little Rivals thinks of the Cowboys’ team this season. McNeese is ranked lower than every team in the Southland Conference except Central Arkansas and lower than every Division I team in the state except Grambling and Southern. You Cowboys fans not feeling indignant enough? Here is a sample of some of the teams (last season’s record included) ranked higher than McNeese in the Rivals poll. • No. 257, High Point (9-21): Last season, the Panthers’ offense could manage just 64.4 points per game but, in the Big South Conference, it was just mediocre enough to get them in the conference tournament. The optimistically named school features a new coach in his first-ever head coaching job and just two seniors. NOTABLE ALUMNI: Successful college basketball coach Tubby Smith, “Funny Face” singer Donna Fargo, and the guy who played a newspaper layout editor from the TV show “The Wire.” • No. 289, Florida Gulf Coast (11-20): The school has only been around since 1991 and the Eagles are in the midst of a transition to Division I basketball. Last season, the Eagles did not win a single game on the road and averaged a miserable 65.2 points per game. NOTABLE ALUMNI: Courtney Jolly, a beauty queen-turned-professional monster truck driver. Talk about a B.S. degree. • No. 301, South CarolinaUpstate (9-21): Another school transitioning up to Division I play, USC-Upstate began as a nursing school. While the Spartans do return a 7-foot-3 center, none of the returning starters averaged in double-figures scoring last season. The Spartans did get a non-conference blowout win of Southern last season. NOTABLE ALUMNI: I couldn’t find a single “notable” person claiming to be an alumnus. What does that tell you? Sheesh. I know McNeese isn’t going to be playing Kansas for the national championship this season, but this is a little ridiculous. This list reminds me of how much I dislike preseason rankings and polls. A while back, I explained how predictions (whether predicting the fortunes of one team or 347) are pretty much a combination of voodoo, Santeria and other forms of Volume 1 • Issue 17
black magic. The rankings and numbers are conjured out of thin air. Also, the final rankings and polls almost never look anything like what the pundits predicted at the start of the season. Furthermore, not a single team has played a regular-season game this season. At this point, they’re still playing scrimmages and exhibitions. Does any rational sports fan (okay, there aren’t a lot of us out there, but whatever) think that just because LeMoyne beat Syracuse in a preseason basketball game that LeMoyne is
actually a better team than Syracuse? No way. All I’m saying is that, at this point in the year, it’s impossible to determine where among the 347 Division I teams any one particular team is going to end up. You can’t just form a hypothesis and be done with it. You’ve got to use the whole scientific method. You’ve got to run some tests, analyze the data and then you can draw conclusions and publish the results. It’s just better living through chemistry.
Save the Children’s Museum Fund
Devastated by a recent fire, the Children’s Museum needs your help to reopen. The goal is $450,000.
Brandon Shoumaker is a graduate of McNeese State University and has covered sports for more than seven years for various publications. Coaches Brandon Shoumaker or parents with story tips may contact Brandon at bshoumaker@yahoo.com or send him a message on Twitter (@bshoumaker).
TJN
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So far, $229,759.44 has been raised! The museum would like to thank all of you who have contributed, including the following:
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Cranberry Sauce Drumstick Family Football Gobble
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The Dot Game Players take turns connecting two dots. When a player completes a box, they write their initial in the box. When all dots are connected,
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Volume 1 • Issue 17
Killin’ Time Crossword
Reduce Stress! Add years to your life! ADOPT A PET! Puppies and dogs now available for adoption at Downtown Animal Hospital. 113 W. Clarence St. Lake Charles, La. (337) 439-4330
Crossword puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.com (www.bestcrosswords.com). Used with permission. Volume 1 • Issue 17
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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By Mary Louise Ruehr
All About Food Books about food make up a huge chunk of the publishing market. So, let’s take a look at a few of them. There are plenty of great meals in The American Lighthouse Cookbook: The Best Recipes and Stories from America’s Shorelines by Becky Sue Epstein and Ed Jackson. The authors have picked out 47 lighthouses representing eight geographical regions and provided a menu for a complete lighthouse meal featuring local cuisine at each location. The book contains about 300 recipes — some as old as the 18th century — highlighting the specialties, lighthouse history and lore of each area. The recipes range from the simple — broiled grapefruit at Fort Niagara Lighthouse on Lake Ontario — to the exotic — curried goat and Callaloo Soup in the Virgin Islands. Dig into Boston clam chowder, Texas chili or Waldorf Salad; travel from Hinchinbrook Island, Alaska, to Cape Hatteras, N.C., and back to Maui, Hawaii. And look at the menus: From the Gulf Coast, a “Big Dinner at the Lighthouse” in Sabine Pass, La., offers grilled oysters in the shell, smothered okra, crab bake, alligator gumbo and pralines that melt in your mouth. Lunch at the Tchefuncte River Lighthouse in Madisonville, La., features Oysters Rockefeller, Eggplant Napoleon, shrimp etouffee, ovenfried catfish and Bananas Foster. From Lake Erie, Fairport Harbor Lighthouse offers a “Grilled Great Lakes Fourth of July Picnic” featuring grilled kielbasa with spicy mustard, PAGE 46
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potato and three cheeses gratin, Great Lakes baked beans, grilled corn, braised greens, fried bluegill and lake perch, and strawberries and sweet buttermilk biscuits with whipped cream. Each recipe has a callout listing the dish’s yield, preparation time and cooking time. There are nice sketches of the lighthouses but no photos of actual food. In Raw Food Quick & Easy: Over 100 Healthy Recipes, author Mary Rydman includes seven chapters about raw food — growing it, preparing it, dehydrating it — along with information on nutrition and even a chapter on “Food and Emotions.” The author’s premise is that “fast food” doesn’t have to mean tasteless, unhealthy meals from a paper bag; keep it simple, fresh and healthy with
these vegetarian treats. Says the author: “‘Eating raw’ doesn’t have to mean never eating meat again, or refusing to cook anything, ever. Volume 1 • Issue 17
Instead, you can incorporate raw foods into your regular diet as a means to boost your intake of key vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.” Her recipes are categorized by beverages, dressings, breakfast foods, sauces and gravies, salads, soups, desserts and more. They include ratatouille, shiitake burgers, strawberry banana ice cream, Mango Lassi, olive tomato pâté, asparagus cauliflower crunch, and even nori rolls and pizza. The Pat Conroy Cookbook is now available in paperback. Masterful storyteller Conroy writes warm stories about his love for food and his experiences with people and restaurants, and he teams them with 100 recipes he’s picked up in his world travels. His love for the food of the South is evident in his crab cakes, grits casserole, pickled shrimp and peach pie. As he says it, “There is barbecue and its variations in the South, and the subject is a holy one to me. I write of truffles in the Dordogne Valley in France, cilantro in Bangkok, catfish in Alabama, scuppernong in South Carolina, Chinese food from my years in San Francisco, and white asparagus from the first meal my agent took me to in New York City.” The Unhealthy Truth: How Our Food Is Making Us Sick — and What We Can Do about It by Robyn O’Brien with Rachel Kranz discusses the increase in dangerous allergies in the nation’s children and offers suggestions for healthier living. O’Brien is a mother who took action when her child developed violent reactions to food. She found research conducted in Europe that confirms the toxicity of America’s food supply, and she found out how and why the food industry can hide toxins in food that may cause allergies, ADHD, cancer and asthma. She explains why organic food is better for Volume 1 • Issue 17
you and offers suggestions to “make children safe” in this well-documented book. If you want healthier food, you can grow your own, following advice in Gaia’s Garden: A Guide to Home-Scale Permaculture by Toby Hemenway. In the second edition of this popular book, the author offers advice on designing an ecological garden, with a wide range of edible and other useful plants, right in your backyard. Topics include preparing the soil, attracting bees, using water wisely, and growing an edible “forest” — even in the city. The book has a handy reference chart of trees, shrubs and useful plants and herbs, a glossary, and plenty of resources for more information. Finally, you can’t really talk about healthy eating these days without mentioning the books of Michael Pollan: In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto and The Omnivore’s Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals. The userfriendly Pollan discusses food production in America and traces our
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favorite dishes back to their origins, urging us to eat as naturally as possible. He offers his ultimate words of wisdom: “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” Copyright © 2009 by Mary Louise Ruehr. Write to OneForTheBooks@cheerful.com.
TJN
901 Ryan St., Lake Charles • (337) 439-2054 NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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There is a red beans and rice cook-off before the game (entry forms are online at McNeeseSports.com). Entry is $50 and cash prizes are awarded to 1st, 2nd & 3rd place finishers. Profits benefit Abraham’s Tent and the McNeese Department of Agricultural Science.
Sat., Nov. 21 Women’s Basketball vs. Samford Burton Coliseum @ Noon. Men’s Basketball vs. Louisiana College Burton Coliseum @ 3 p.m.
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Fans are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to donate at the gates.
Please contact the special services and equality office at least 72 hours before any home event to request accommodations for individuals with disabilities. This includes the need for materials in an alternative format such as large print or Braille, sign language interpreters, accessible seating, and accessible parking information. Ph: (337) 475-5428.
Volume 1 • Issue 17
der useum n e l l n E dren's M a D By e Chil th On the job, Evan is or of
ct
Dire
Imagine That (Paramount, DVD, 2009) One of the nicer things about the recession we’re in is that Hollywood, in its pursuit of dollars, is being forced to make movies for families. Imagine that. Starring Eddie Murphy, Imagine That is one that almost succeeds. As Evan Danielson, Murphy plays a stock market expert, working in a city that obviously isn’t in recession. He has a nice home, a maid, and a charming daughter played by Yara Shahidi. Evan and his charming wife, played by Vanessa Williams, are separated. Evan is not as successful in his personal life as in his job. He loves his young daughter, but can’t relate to her very well, as she’s always hiding under her blanket talking to her imaginary friends.
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For Evan, this is a way to get great stock tips and succeed at work, which has turned into a seriously hilarious battle. If Eddie Murphy is amusing as a stockbroker singing to imaginary princesses, Johnny Whitefeather is hilarious with his Hollywood Indian aura. In one meeting, he has the entire staff beating on the board table and chanting to the spirits. And just who is that tall, longhaired whisperer? It’s Thomas Haden Church, the mechanic from the old TV series Wings! For all its charm, the movie has some flaws. There’s a little too much detail in the stock market investment dialogue, and it drags the movie down.
There’s also a scene that I didn’t care for at all, where Johnny Whitefeather tries to induce his own son into a spiritual trance by hyping him up on Red Bull. It fits Johnny’s character, but was a very unfunny moment for what could have been a perfect family movie. Will the whole family like it? Maybe not, but I am about to rent it again, just to see Johnny Whitefeather cawing like a crow. Eventually, Hollywood just might get it right. I guess there’s as much chance of that happening as them making movies in Shreveport. Imagine that. TJN
being threatened by a new stock expert, Johnny Whitefeather. Johnny is a tall, longhaired, charismatic hypester who wows the staff with Native American Indian culture and cultural presentations. He makes Evan, a loyal employee of eight years, look like old news. In the midst of all this, Evans daughter, Olivia, starts giving him stock tips. One company is starry, another is stinky. It turns out she’s being advised by her imaginary friends, princesses from another land. Soon Evan is immersed in her imaginary world, and using it to fight back against Johnny Whitefeather on the job. This goofy plot turns out to be a surprisingly entertaining movie, mostly because of the actors. Eddie Murphy has chucked his vulgarity while retaining his signature in-your-face mannerisms and sarcasm. He comes across as a parent who truly wants to do good by his daughter, who almost steals the whole movie. Yara Shahidi, as Olivia, charms us with her intelligence and insight that is hiding under the surface of a little girl that just wants her father to notice her. The best scenes in the movie are the ones where she takes him into her pretend world of princesses and monsters. You might be expecting some dazzling special effects, but what happens is that she simply takes him through the house, pretending. Her father and we, the viewers, are forced to use our imaginations to make sense of what she is talking about.
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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ART ON WHEELS You might say it was a man's world, but the annual Art on Wheels was a family affair with something for everyone. Of course, the bikes were the main attraction but the hot rods, tattoo show, pinup girl contest, kids' art on wheels, music, food and more also garnered lots of attention. Dago's Custom Cycles' Marc and Shonda Lefevre wanted to bring attention to motorcycle art and donate the proceeds from the event to give back to the community. This year's recipients were the Whistle Stop Visitation & Exchange Center, Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) and a poker run supporting Special Olympics. VROOM, good show, folks!
Chris Maddox and Chris Langley
Mike Guza and Robert Benca
Matthew Duplichan and Meg Ropp
Ian Sonnier
Chris and Ann Pierce
Becky Jacobs and Amber Tetherland
Rex Alexander and Chris Borill
BRANCHING OUT IN GENEALOGY Spice attended a genealogy workshop hosted by the SWLA Genealogical & Historical Library and learned many things about finding your roots and how family tree DNA enables genealogists to advance their family research. Carolyn Earle Billingsley, Ph. D., historian, family history specialist, lecturer and editor expounded on "Communities of Kinship: A New Theory for Genealogy" quoting R. Wagner as follows: "The essence of kinship is interpretation of genealogy, rather than genealogy." In other words, a social relationship. Well, does that make us all “kin?” Finding your roots has come a long way, baby. Calcasieu Parish's SWLA Genealogical & Historical Library is one of the best in the nation; check it out. Dana and Nelta Nolen Volume 1 • Issue 17
Betty Zeigler and Sue Badeaux NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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Diane McCarthy, Beverly Broussard and Julie Johnson
Sandra Taveney and Anna Marie Hayes
Dorothy Burleigh and Rogers Romero
ETHEL PRECHT CANCER WALK 2009 The brisk air on the Saturday morning of the Ethel Precht HOPE Breast Cancer 3K Walk/Fun Run was invigorating as over 2,000 participants gathered for this annual fundraiser. Mittens, muffs, scarves and boas for many but there were some brave souls less warmly attired anxious to get started on the 3K walk/fun run. Now in its 6th year, Ethel Precht, a cancer survivor, started this fundraiser to benefit local breast cancer patients residing in Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes who cannot afford to purchase bras, wigs, prosthesis and other related items. The Jambalaya News donated bottles of Gatorade for the thirsty walkers. Kudos to the organizers, sponsors and the participants; a community united for a cause. Mayor Randy Roach, Ethel Precht and Sen. Willie Mount
Calcasieu Marine Bank 844 Ryan St. Lake Charles, LA Corner of Pujo & Ryan
Thomas and Arthur Odeaheimer
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The historic Calcasieu Marine Bank Building has been a part of Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana since 1928. The elegance of this treasured landmark makes it perfect for your special event.
Available to rent for all your event needs! Weddings • Reunions • Corporate Events • Mardi Gras • Parties
For more information, including a 360 degree inside view of the buildings, please visit our website at www.empireoftheseed.com. For rental information for the Calcasieu Marine Bank or the Cash Grocery & Sales, please contact Tommy Eastman of Flavin Realty, Inc. at (337)478-8530 or by email at teastman@flavinrealy.com. PAGE 52
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 17
Rickie Lemes, Amber Phillips, Maggie LeBouef and Melissa Kiffe
Bethany Diamond, Nicho Bourque and Rhonda Breaux
Tammy and Hayley LeBlanc; Haleigh Jackson and Sarah Lantz
Lindsay Johnson, Kacie Cryer and Edie Leonards
Katie Van Horn, Tiffanie Trahan and Christin Edwards
Tara Cormier, Tricia Courville, Amy Blanchard and Nicole Neal
ROUGE ET BLANC Couldn't have asked for nicer weather on the day of Rouge et Blanc. The grounds of the 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center and the Calcasieu Parish Court House were jammed with both wine connoisseurs and just wine tasters like me all looking for a good time. Wine classes were offered throughout the day for selected wine samplings. It was an elegant affair with excellent food and fine wines to please the most discerning palate. Ticket holders received the traditional tote bag filled with goodies including the wine list, wine goblet, serving plate and other surprises. The silent auction included special selections of fine art, home accessories and more. It just gets bigger and better each time. Cheers! Charlotte Touchet and Barbara Barrett
Doug and Kathy Scoggins with Keith Monroe Volume 1 • Issue 17
Adam and Jennifer Swann
Gisele and Brent Hawkins
Betty Schwarzauer and Mary Werner NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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WORKS OF MEN 2.0 Men working fascinates me, and the exhibit "Works of Men 2.0" at the Henning Cultural Center showcased some remarkable results. Now an annual event, the call for artists brought together a variety of artisans and genres. Men who have become quite well known for their craft and talent, as well as men who are relatively new on the scene, gave us an exceptional array of art to enjoy on opening night and into the month of November. Thanks to Thom and his staff for the usual panache in entertaining their guests. I’ll be looking forward to "Works of Men 3.0" next year. TJN Krystal and Veronica Allison
Matthew and Jason Tabor
Connie and Jay Ellender and Gina LaBorde
Robert and Gretchen Kingham
Victoria Stolarski, Geoff Russell and Lucille Hancock
Calcasieu Parish has the highest child abuse rate in the state. If you suspect that a child is being abused, call your local police department immediately. You can make the difference in a child’s life.
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Volume 1 • Issue 17
Around Town With The Jam We Don’t Just Report It, We Support It!
CORRECTION: Lisa and Mark Jakel Lisa Jakel and her husband Mark were incorrectly identified in the Nov. 5 Society Spice column on p. 45. We regret the error.
Phil and Lauren enjoy a glass of fine wine with Mary Richardson, Director of the McNeese Banner Series, at Rouge et Blanc, their premier fundraiser.
Lauren and Phil entered the Dancing with the Stars competition at the 2000 Health Foundation’s annual Platinum and Pearls Gala and performed the Spanish Hustle! Here, they chat with Mayor Randy Roach and his wife Nancy before the show.
Lauren and Phil were special guests of George Vincent at Sulphur’s Ducks Unlimited Banquet. The event was held at the CalCam Arena and included live and silent auctions and a delicious meal. Quack! Volume 1 • Issue 17
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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MISTLETOE & MOSS NOV. 18-21 The Junior League of Lake Charles’ Mistletoe & Moss Holiday Market will take place Nov. 18-21 at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Shopping hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Nov. 19 and 20, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Nov. 21. Don’t miss Prancer’s Preview Party, Nov. 18, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., with food, cocktails, free valet and auction items for $40. On Nov. 19, shop with Comet’s Choirs, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., where you can get into the holiday spirit with the help of local bands and choirs. Tickets are $7 with no stroller fee. There are many other events scheduled; for more information, call 436-4025. THE GREAT AMERICAN SMOKEOUT AT SYLVIA’S BISTRO NOV. 19 Celebrate the Great American Smokeout with a night of smokefree fun at Sylvia’s Bistro in downtown Lake Charles. At the Live on Air! Party, there will be free information on smoking cessation and the dangers of secondhand smoke. The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury will provide litter bags and stickers to promote their ongoing anti-litter campaign. Door prizes will be given away throughout the evening. It will be held on Thurs., Nov. 19, from 5-7 p.m. at Sylvia’s at 329 Broad St., Lake Charles. For more information, contact Patricia Prudhomme at 274-4199. A TUNA CHRISTMAS AT LITTLE THEATRE NOV. 19-22 Little Theatre presents A Tuna Christmas, a deepfried comedy about small-town Texas at Yuletide. The show comes with a twist: All 24 roles are played by just two actors. Greg Stratton and Joseph Frazier do quickchanges throughout the show – from twangy announcers on the local radio station to waitresses at the Tastee Kreme. The fast-paced comedy will finish
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
JAM
its run Nov. 19-22. Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. (2 p.m. on Sundays). Tickets are on sale now for $20 (discounted for seniors and students). For reservations, call 433-7988 or visit www.LCLT.com. Also, the show will be available for private bookings for company Christmas parties — all-inclusive “Tuna Christmas Parties” which include a gala reception, hors d’oeuvres and a private performance of the show. Dates through Dec. 20 remain available. For bookings, call or e-mail the theatre. LATIN AMERICAN ART EXHIBIT AT ICM THROUGH DEC. 30 “Posadas, Retablos, and Icons: The Latin American Way” featuring the artwork of Luz-Maria Lopez, is on exhibit at the Gibson-Barham Gallery of the Imperial Calcasieu Museum at 241 W. Sallier St. through Dec. 30. Lopez, who has been a SPARKS teacher in southern La., shares Latin American culture and lore in her paintings and mixed media pieces. An educational curriculum and student workbooks are being developed in conjunction with her works. Also, the museum will host tours for local students Nov. 30Dec. 4 and Dec. 7-11. For more information, call 439-3797.
RALLY TO RESCUE NOV. 22 Sponsored by Purina Pro Plan, this event is bringing together all area animal rescue groups. Come out for a fun-filled afternoon to learn what the animal groups are doing to help with overpopulation. Ten to Great Russian 15 groups will be in attendance, along with Nutcracker Heckhaven, our local wildlife rescuer. Visit the booths, get to know the rescuers, and learn about fostering and adoption. Cats and dogs will be available on-site for adoption. There will be raffles, food, music and demonstrations, including pet training basics, wildlife do’s and don’ts, agility training, and more. It will be held from noon to 4 p.m. on the grounds of the Lake Charles Civic Center near the tennis courts. For more information, call 287-1711. MOSCOW BALLET GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER NOV. 24 Kick off your holiday season by experiencing the magic and beauty
Volume 1 • Issue 17
of Moscow’s talented ballet company performing the timeless Christmas classic, The Nutcracker. The performance will be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center on Nov. 24 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $26$66 and are available at the LCCC box office. For more information, call 477-7487. THANKSGIVING COMMUNITY DINNER NOV. 26 The Maplewood/Hollywood Lion’s Club presents their annual community Thanksgiving dinner at the SPAR recreation center in Sulphur. For more information, call 625-4711. LADY ANTEBELLUM AT DELTA EVENT CENTER DEC. 4 On Fri., Dec. 4, Lady Antebellum will be bringing their fresh country sound to the Delta Event Center for a one-night-only performance, starting at 8 p.m. The band is a unique blend that mingles classic country, 1960s R&B soulfulness and the heart-on-the-sleeve openness of 1970s singer-songwriters, all presented with a razorsharp contemporary edge. Already the trio earned “Top New Group” honors at the 2008 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards. Tickets for Lady Antebellum start at $30 and are available online at www.deltadowns.com or ticketmaster.com, or at the Delta Downs Gift Shop. To charge by phone, call (800) 745-3000. THE WIZARD OF OZ AT LUTCHER THEATER DEC. 5-6 Bring the whole family to experience this musical celebration of the iconic 1939 MGM film as Dorothy, Toto and their friends travel down the Yellow Brick Road to the magical land of Oz. The performances will be held in Orange’s Lutcher Theater on Sat., Dec. 5, at 2 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. Get your tickets online at www.lutcher.com or call (409) 886-5535. TJN
Lady Antebellum Volume 1 • Issue 17
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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By Erica McCreedy
MSU UPCOMING EVENTS
It’s not every day that you find yourself thrown into an explosion of world fusion music in Lake Charles. Recently, Banners Outreach brought Wine and Alchemy to center stage in local schools to offer students a rare and much-needed view of a wider world through the universal language of music. Mary Richardson, the director of the Banners Cultural Series, invited me into her home for dinner with the group to experience first-hand Wine and Alchemy’s impact on the local community. While their origins are not necessarily spectacular (Jake Cooper, Neil Yamin, and Mark Varelas hail from San Antonio while Roxanne Bruscha
Nov. 21 Nov. 21 Nov. 21 Nov. 28 Dec. 1 Dec. 2
is from Michigan), within moments I felt that I had an idea of who these musicians were: Quick to laugh, relentless in joking with each other like siblings who’ve shared a hotel room for too long, and fiercely loyal to their passions of music, dance, and world cultures. Wine and Alchemy’s original arrangements, as well as their own takes of traditional songs are no less than eclectic, yet, even then, that is not enough to describe the group’s breathtaking talent and efforts in fusing Greek, Gypsy, Middle Eastern, French, Celtic, and other cultural backgrounds to yield a completely unique musical experience.
Even though the group has officially been together nearly two years, each member has spent the last several years honing and developing skills in composing, dancing, and playing world instruments, including the Greek bouzouki and the rauschpfeife. With this, each member seamlessly blends their personal experiences and influences with their musical talents in order to create a deeply emotional and universal experience for each audience member. Along with historical periods and world cultures, dance permeates the Wine and Alchemy’s live performances. Roxanne Bruschas, the lead vocalist, co-founder, as well as cre-
ative director for the group, performs an immense selection of dancing styles including Lebanese, Moroccan, Egyptian, and Tribal-style belly dancing. “You learn to interpret the music through dance. It shows what the music is doing. It’s a visual way to understanding what you’re hearing,” she said over dinner. Her dancing engages audiences visually by enhancing and deepening the overall sensory experience. In order to truly connect to the group’s music, the listener has to feel it through all of the senses. The cyclical nature of music could not manifest itself more than it does
Women’s Basketball vs. Samford Burton Coliseum @ Noon. Men’s Basketball vs. LA College Burton Coliseum @ 3 p.m. Football vs. Central Arkansa Cowboy Stadium @ 7 p.m. Men’s Basketball vs. UL-Lafayette Burton Coliseum @ 1 p.m. Men’s Basketball vs. Paul Quinn College Burton Coliseum @ 7 p.m. Women’s Basketball vs. UL-Lafayette Burton Coliseum @ 7 p.m.
Please contact the special services and equality office at least 72 hours before any home event to request accommodations for individuals with disabilities. This includes the need for materials in an alternative format such as large print or Braille, sign language interpreters, accessible seating, and accessible parking information. Ph: (337) 475-5428.
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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within the original arrangements of Wine and Alchemy. Even though we are moving back toward traditional music, we are continuing to fuse together outside influences found in other cultures,” Bruschas said. The music reinforces itself by layering traditional and original music while revolving in a continuous move from the internal influences of each member toward an external accessibility for audiences. “Our main goal is to simply expose others to world music,” said Mark Varelas, the head composer and creative director of the group. “The purpose of our work is to not only create art but to also educate people in these traditional songs and cultures.” Through Banners Outreach, the brainchild of local attorney Randy Fuerst, programs and groups like Wine and Alchemy are able to enter Southwest Louisiana schools to further their music education efforts. The program now reaches over 60 schools and 18,000 children, and it is free of charge to the schools because of corporate sponsors like Citgo, which is overall sponsor for the entire program. The impact of Wine and Alchemy
has been enormous within the schools. LaDonna McKnight, the Citgo Outreach Coordinator for the Banners Series, is constantly astonished with the influence that music programs like Wine and Alchemy has over the younger generations. “Some schools have little to no arts and music focus. At first, students are always reluctant to experience something so different as Wine and Alchemy which performs music that these kids never even knew existed, but quickly after listening, these kids fall in love,” McKnight said. She went on to say, “If you see one or two kids light up, it’s very fulfilling. We bring groups like Wine and Alchemy in so that a child will become eclectic in his or her music choices.” These exposures to world music can act as a catalyst for igniting a change in a child’s life. Neil Yamin, who specializes in doumbek and djembe drums, immediately saw the affect that he and his group had on the Banners Outreach schools. “When you see it click in a child, you never know what you’re starting. You
never know if you’re beginning a music career for him or her, or if your music is becoming a part of that child.” Banners Outreach is doing exactly what it should be doing: Allowing children to discover new ways of experiencing the world through music as well as other art forms. By immersing students in a different perspective of the world, the new generations are able to achieve a broader and robust perspective of themselves as well. The name, Wine and Alchemy, suits the group perfectly. Because of their intricate and exhaustive
efforts to bring many out-of-reach cultures’ traditional music to a westernized audience, Wine and Alchemy seems to merge in an alchemical sense the old with the new, the strong traditions of older cultures with the ever passing modern world, and the vast, seemingly intangible outside world with Southwest Louisiana children.
TJN
Wine & Alchemy
www.thejambalayanews.com • (337) 436-7800 “Since teaming up with The Jambalaya News we have noticed a substantial increase in traffic to our salon. Through our advertisements we have seen increased phone calls, walk-ins, and even gained new employees! Our clients continually comment on how wonderful the ads are, and working with Faye Drake is always a pleasurable experience! We've done other advertising in the past and The Jambalaya News definitely blows the competition out of the water.”
– Jill Herbert Owner, Glow Salon & Wellness Spa
109 W. LAGRANGE, LAKE CHARLES • Volume 1 • Issue 17
(337) 477-2888 NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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To list your event e-mail: lauren@thejambalayanews.com
The
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18
• City Heat @ Sylvia’s
• The Cajun Music Band @ DI’s Cajun Food &
Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Alvin Touchet @ Blue Duck Cafe, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19 • T-Joe Romero @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, • • • • • •
Basile, 6:30 p.m. Neal Smith @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 p.m. Nathan Dean @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. Brad Brinkley & Comfort Zone @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. Giles Sonnier & The Bayou Idols @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. Krossroadz @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2
Bistro, 9 p.m. • Craig Mouton &
Slingshot @ My Place, 9 p.m. • Briant Lloyd Smith & Hot Gritz @ Blue Duck Cafe, 9 p.m. • C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • Louisiana Express @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 • Joe Simon & Louisiana Cajun @ DI’s Cajun Food
& Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Darius Rucker @ Isle of Capri Casino,
Westlake, 7 p.m. • Styx/REO Speedwagon/Night Ranger @ •
• Briggs Brown & The Bayou Cajuns @ DI’s Cajun
Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Static @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 8 p.m. • Nathan Dean @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs,
Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Daylight Broadcast/The 94s/The Near Death Experiment @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.
• • • •
Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. Nathan Dean @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. Whiskey South @ Hurricane Willie’s, Sulphur, 9 p.m. C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. Dog Hill Stompers @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. Last Draw @ Toucan’s, 9:30 p.m.
• Live Oak Decline/Fresh Nectar @ Luna Bar &
Grill, 9:30 p.m. • Red November @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24 • Neal Smith @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 5 p.m. • Felton LeJeune & The Cajun Cowboys @ DI’s
Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Alexa James @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25 • Howard Noel & Cajun Boogie @ DI’s Cajun Food
& Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. Alvin Touchet @ Blue Duck Cafe, 7:30 p.m. Blues Tonic @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 8 p.m. Whiskey South @ Caribbean Hut, 8 p.m. Research Turtles/Devil and The Details/Paul Gonsoulin @ Toucan’s, 9 p.m. • Butt Roxx @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m. • Scotty Doland @ Luna Bar & Grill, 10 p.m. • Southbound @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m. • • • •
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26 • Password @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs,
Vinton, 8 p.m. • Da Classics @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino,
Kinder, 9 p.m. • Laurel & The Electric Circus @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m.
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 17
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5
• Al Roger & Louisiana Pride @
• Homer LeJeune @ DI’s Cajun Food
• Briggs Brown & The Bayou Cajuns
• • • • • • •
•
DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. Mel Waiters @ Delta Event Center, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. Magnolia Sons/Tyler Read @ Toucan’s, 8 p.m. Password @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. ThingFish @ Caribbean Hut, 9 p.m. Chris Louvierre Band @ My Place, 9 p.m. ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. Colorcast Veteran/Handsome Harry/In Liquid @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m. Outlaw Nation @ Luna Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.
& Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2
•
• Don Fontenot & Les Cajuns de la
Prairie @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Sequoyah Prep School/Paper Plains/Colorcast Veteran @ Toucan’s, 9:30 p.m.
•
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3
•
• Errol Jenkins & Louisiana Tradition
@ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Dash Rip Rock @ Luna Bar & Grill, 10 p.m. • Hipbootjoe @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m.
• •
@ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. Chris Miller & Bayou Roots @ VFW Post 2130, 7:30 p.m. Warchild @ Hawg Wild, Westlake, 8 p.m. Bernie Alan @ Wayne & Layne’s, Sulphur, 9 p.m. ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. Dead Earth Politics @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 • Scotty Pousson & The Pointe aux
Loups Playboys @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28 • Scotty Pousson & The Pointe aux Loups Playboys @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Leon Chavis @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Nothing More/Forever Falls @ Toucan’s, 9 p.m. • ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • Dax Riggs @ Luna Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4 • TBA @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Lady Antebellum @ Delta Event Center, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. • Dead Earth Politics/Vilkatas/ Veneno Mortal @ Hawg Wild, Westlake, 9 p.m. • ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • Matt Moss/Do Not Destroy @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.
• Howard Noel & Cajun Boogie @
DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. TJN
MONDAY NIGHTS: Abita Beer Night
WEDNESDAY NIGHTS: Mondo Martini Night
THURSDAY NIGHTS: Be Well Night
Whether you are dining in or calling in for takeout, let The Luna Bar and Grill do all the work. Come in today for one of our specialty salads, stellar sandwiches, or exceptional entrees. We offer many choices for the health conscious individual.
Presenting Mike Bertaut, Sr. Healthcare Intelligence Analyst of Blue Cross Blue Shield of LA, to discuss the proposed healthcare reform bill on Fri., Nov. 20, 2009 at Reeves Uptown Catering located at 1639 Ryan St. The presentation will be followed by questions from the audience. Cost is $15 members and $18 non-members. Please make your reservation no later than 2 PM Thurs., Nov. 19, 2009 by emailing info@lwv-lc.org or calling (337) 474-1864.
We’re locally owned and the best place in town for live entertainment, food, and drinks.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Thurs. Nov. 19 @ 9:00 GILES SONNIER & THE BAYOU IDOLS Fri. Nov. 20 @ 10:00 DAYLIGHT BROADCAST, THE 94’S & MORE Wed. Nov. 25 @ 10:00 SCOTTY DOLAND Fri. Nov. 27 @ 10:00 OUTLAW NATION (from Shreveport, La.) Sat. Nov. 28 @ 10:00 DAX RIGGS & MORE!!
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NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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Music Is Where You Find It By Leslie Berman Used to be you had to go to a store that specialized in music to buy albums, singles and tapes. I loved those esoteric shops, showcasing the owners’ obsessions, like that great one in High Fidelity starring John Cusack and Jack Black as music nerds on a mission. I was lucky to grow up in New York, where personal obsessions were the meat and drink of at least a dozen favorite shops. Most of those places are gone, because these days, we get a lot of our music in downloadable format. But also, they’ve disappeared, not only in the advent of the bog box stores, but because when we want something tangible in hand, we can get it from just about everywhere. I’ve been on the road so much since August that I think I’ve actually been everywhere — and wherever I was, I picked up a few CDs for the drive. Starbucks: More than just coffee Starbucks is a good place to pick up music. Not just a coffeehouse, the ‘Bucks likes to brand itself as a lifestyle service company, and music is an important signifier of lifestyle. They want you to know who they are by gut feelings. For example, you know what you mean when you say of a particular slacker friend from college that he’s a signifying monkey — the kind of trickster who smokes your last doobie, cheats at hacky sack, and travels in the wake of the Grateful Dead so he can get it on with your mama, all the while ventriloquisting the blame on some innocent bywalker. Well, Starbucks wants you to know them as intimately and instinctively as that, by their signifiers, but in a good way. They want to be associated with socially conscious but not didactic, understatedly hip guys and gals from 18 to 64 (now that 64 is the new 44, still listening to their favorite bands on CD, even if not going out to live concerts too much anymore), who want a place to hang, but don’t necessarily need to talk about Sartre or deconstruction while downing their mocha-chocolatte ya-yas to feel cool. So what kind of music spells out that je ne sais quoi? Recently, I picked up two compilations packaged by Starbucks that fit tight in the Starbucks lifestyle pocket. The first is a 15-track set of tunes from the Bluesville Records archives. “Town and Country
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Blues” features artists who were mostly obscure until the folk revival of the 1960s brought them out to perform for audiences eager to experience and celebrate the authentic African-American originators of the Blues, as well as the (often) Caucasian revivalists who’d learned from them. Joining Roosevelt Sykes (“She Ain’t For Nobody”), Reverend Gary Davis (“Death Don’t Have No Mercy”), and Furry Lewis (“Goin’ To Kansas City”), among others, to represent the old-timers, with Dave Van Ronk (“Come Back Baby”), Danny Kalb (“Nobody Knows You When You’re Down And Out”), and Tom Rush (“Baby Please Don’t Go”) to represent the great white hopes, turns out to be an inspirational project. And Steven Stolder’s lovely liner notes will tell you why. Stolder is also the writer for Starbucks’ “Creedence Clearwater Revival” project, which makes absolutely clear why the band hit so many resonant chords with baby boomers like me. Driving to New Orleans a few nights ago, it was the perfect road music for the time and place; rolling out from the carport to “Born On The Bayou” made me feel like I was setting off on my own “Easy Rider” adventure. TimeLife sets A couple of months ago, I had two minor surgeries at M.D. Anderson, and made half a dozen trips to Houston for tests, pre-op tests, and more tests, before the actual procedures. Each time I went, there was some kind of crafty garage sale going on in the lobby, and one of those times, they were selling discounted unopened CDs alongside the crocheted lap robes. I never did figure out which charitable organization was doing this, but I picked up TimeLife’s double CD “Treasury of Bluegrass” for 12 bucks, just to cheer myself up. As befits the father of the form, the compilation is heavy on Bill Monroe, as a performer (“Blue Moon of Kentucky”, “Footprints In The Snow”), as a songwriter (“Uncle Pen”), and as a former employer (Mac Wiseman, Jimmy Martin, Del McCoury and Ricky Skaggs all passed through Monroe’s band and are on these discs). Bluegrass innovators Flatt & Scruggs (“Ballad Of Jed Clampett”), Ralph Stanley (“Little Maggie”), and the Osborne Brothers (“Rocky Top”) are featured, as are newer comers, Alison
Krauss and Union Station (“Two Highways”) and The Johnson Mountain Boys (“Orange Blossom Special”). This two-disc set really covers the waterfront. I have never before bought a Time Life compilation, but I’ve watched their late night infomercials often enough, because the music is their message, and they are, despite their sappy and platitudinous onscreen patter, boxing the best of the genres and times their projects cover. I might have to pick up one of those sets, now that I’ve enjoyed their “Bluegrass.” Whole Foods, whole music Whole Foods has been in the lifestyle business since its inception. Not only do they want to feed your body, they want to feed your head, er, soul. I love to browse their herbs and vitamins, shampoos and soaps, and nutrition library, and always walk away with a sense of wellbeing, even if I haven’t indulged in uplifting my chakras, or cleansing my whatevers with their products. Along with ethnic clothing chain Putumayo’s colorfully-covered compilation CDs of World Music from many places and cultures, Whole Foods sells the works of old and well-worn individual artists. This week, besides getting my seeduction bread fix, I picked up the reissued “Revolver,” although I could have chosen “Help!” or “Rubber Soul” instead, to revive my love affair with the Beatles. “Revolver” has a lot of quirky songs that don’t necessarily hang together as a record, and I’ve always felt that it was made up of leftovers from earlier sessions, augmented by experiments portending the mind-blowing work yet to come. But I bought it for two songs that I’ve always loved: “Taxman,” which reminds me pleasantly of an object of affection, and “Here, There and Everywhere,” which in my folk girl past I always loved to cover. If I’d known I’d wanted to buy it, I could have gotten that record anywhere – from Amazon, from Sams Club, from Sam Goody’s in the Mall. But Whole Foods put it at the checkout line, and I had a three-hour drive back to Lake Charles coming up, so they hooked me. Signifying my lifestyle – impulsive and nostalgic. Bingo. TJN
Volume 1 • Issue 17
Reach your target audience this Holiday Season with an ad in The Jambalaya News Visit us online at www.thejambalayanews.com Publication Date Thursday, Dec. 3
Advertising Deadline Tuesday, Nov. 24
Call to reserve your space today at (337) 436-7800 Faye Drake: ext. 111 • Katy Corbello: ext. 101 Lazette Procter: ext. 102 Volume 1 • Issue 17
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
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