VOL. 1, NO. 11 / AUGUST 27, 2009
• Historic Cemeteries Unearth Great Stories • College: Year One • Green Crusaders: St. Margaret’s Science Club • Doing Business with Neighbors
Lake Charles’ only waterfront restaurant offers a relaxing atmosphere and a menu of Louisiana favorites. Serving Lunch and Dinner Daily Sunday – Thursday 11am-10pm & Friday – Saturday 11am-11pm Express Lunch served 11am-3pm Monday – Saturday
BEGINNING LABOR DAY WEEKEND
“Rock the Dock”
FEATURING LIVE MUSIC ON THE PATIO
1103 West Prien Lake Road ~ Lake Charles ~ 337-478-7774
Come by car or by boat!
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AUGUST 27, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 11
GENERAL 826 Ford St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 PUBLISHER Phil de Albuquerque
contents
lauren@thejambalayanews.com
EDITOR Lisa Yates lisa@thejambalayanews.com
CONTRIBUTORS Kay Andrews Leslie Berman George Cline Dan Ellender Erica McCreedy Mike McHugh Jeanne Owens Mary Louise Ruehr Brandon Shoumaker Steve Springer, M.D. ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANT Patricia Prudhomme SALES ASSOCIATES Faye Drake Leslie Davis Sabrina Barker GRAPHICS ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Darrell Buck darrell@thejambalayanews.com
BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kay Andrews
August 27, 2009 • Volume 1 • Issue 11
COVER STORY 22
publisher@thejambalayanews.com
NEWS MANAGING EDITOR Lauren de Albuquerque
On Cover: The Landing Owners, Kurt Strang and Josh Rogers. Cover Photo by Darrell Buck
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The Landing Revives Waterfront Dining
REGULARS 7 10 14 15 17 31
The Boiling Pot The Dang Yankee What’s Cookin’ House Call A Greener World Sports Report
FEATURES 5 12 20 25
Cherries for Life Historic Cemeteries Unearth Great Stories College: Year One Doing Business with Neighbors
ENTERTAINMENT 33 34 36 37 38 42 44 46
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Killin’ Time Crossword Red Hot Books Funbolaya Family Night at the Movies Society Spice The Local Jam Eclectic Company Jambalaya Jam
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The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by The Jambalaya News, LLC, 826 Ford Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone (337) 436-7800. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The Jambalaya News cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a selfaddressed envelope. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Copyright 2009 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited. DISTRIBUTION: The Jambalaya News is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. The Jambalaya News may be distributed only by The Jambalaya News authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of The Jambalaya News take more than one copy of each issue from its racks. Volume 1 • Issue 11
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From the Managing Editor Let’s Hear it for New Businesses! There’s nothing more exciting—and more stressful—than starting your own business. In these shaky economic times, the stress is naturally compounded. In spite of all the predicted doom and gloom, I’m happy to say that new businesses continue to grow and flourish in the Lake Area. The Jambalaya News is just one of them! We’re absolutely thrilled with the overwhelming response we’ve received since we launched our publication in April. Sincere thanks to all of our readers and advertisers (not to mention our amazing team) for making us what we are today! In this issue, we highlight some new businesses whose owners weren’t afraid to take a chance. Kudos to Josh Rogers and Kurt Strang for taking over the old Bennigan’s location and turning it into a unique dining experience on the waterfront. Jeanne Owens of the Charleston Gallery & Antiques sells vintage treasures and showcases local art in the newly refurbished The Jambalaya News is proud to welcome Faye Drake as the newest member of their professional sales team. Faye brings with her over 21 years of local newspaper sales experience. “I am excited to be a part of The Jambalaya News, a wonderful publication dedicated to promoting the people and
Charleston Hotel. Thanks to Juli Wilson, downtown Lake Charles now has a high-end boutique, Social Denim, filled with the latest styles from Hollywood. Hair stylist Tasha Evans received so much encouragement from her clients that she decided to open her own place— Salon Evans—and is thrilled that she did. She shares a building on LaGrange St. with Glow Salon & Wellness Spa, where Jill Hebert and her staff pamper you with the works—from manicures to Swedish massages. And tech guru Paul Wolfe started Precision IT, which specializes in end-to-end IT solutions, but can do anything computer or network-related. Congratulations to all of you, and we wish you much success!
– Lauren de Albuquerque
businesses of Southwest Louisiana. And I’m glad to have the opportunity to continue to do what I have done for the past 21 years……helping local business to reach potential customers.” To take advantage of Faye’s skill and experience to help grow your business, call her at (337) 436-7800 ext. 111.
TJN
Faye Drake
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AUGUST 27, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 11
Grade Phil in 3rd
By Phil de Albuquerque
In these uneasy economic times, owning your own business can be stressful, to say the least. But if you have the right product coupled with the right marketing plan, you’re sure to stay successful. Owning my own business has always fascinated me. I can remember my first venture. I was around nine years old. It was summer, and I started thinking about an opportunity. All six of us kids were lying on the grass in the backyard, looking up at the sky and listening to the small planes as they flew by. We all wondered how many were flying to Canada. From Mt. Clemens, Michigan,
Volume 1 • Issue 11
where we lived, it was only a few miles away, but it seemed like light years to us. Mom was out grocery shopping, leaving my older sister Mary and me in charge. After a while, Mom returned from the grocery store. She knocked on the window and motioned for us to come in. She had a surprise for us! We all ran in and sat around the kitchen table. She reached in the fridge and pulled out a big bag of fresh cherries. We all cheered as mom put a small pile in front of each of us. My pile was bigger because I counted for two. I always sat next to my little sister Joan. I would pick out the best cherries and give them to her as she looked up at me with her beautiful, adoring eyes.
“I sure wish we could have these all the time,” Joan said as she stuffed a cherry into her little mouth. We all nodded with our cherryblotched smiles. “Sorry, kids,” Mom said. “Enjoy them now and we’ll see when we can have the again. But I had an idea. “Mom, if you didn’t have to spend any more money, could we have them all the time?” I asked. Not able to imagine what her eldest son had in mind, Mom smiled and said “Now, Philip. How are we going to do that?” “We all love eating these cherries, right?” I said. “I’ll bet most of our neighbors like them, too. I’ll start a cherry
stand in the front yard, charge a little more money than they cost, and we’ll all have cherries for life!” Mom laughed, but as always, let me try my idea. That was the beginning of my entrepreneurial adventure. I used the family card table, a small folding chair, and a made a sign out of a piece of paper which said “Cherries for Sale.” It was a huge success! I can still remember the kind words and encouragement from our neighbors. One nice lady commented, “These are the best cherries I’ve ever had! Where did you get them?” “Someplace magical,” I said, which was true—we felt that everything that came out of mom’s fridge was magical! My brother Frank, who was 11 months younger than me, tried to open a stand next to mine to see if he could make more money. It didn’t work—but that’s another story! To this day, when Lauren and I are out and about and I see a child trying to sell something at their little stand, I see myself all those years ago. So, I have to stop and buy their lemonade, chocolate chip cookies, or whatever it is that they’re selling. I encourage them and wish them success. Maybe they have a dream, too, and want to show their family how to have “cherries for life.” TJN
AUGUST 27, 2009
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JAMBALAYA COOK-OFF IS OPEN TO INDIVIDUALS AND TEAMS. First prize is $200 for teams and $100 for individuals; trophies will be awarded to second and third place in each category. Entries will be judged on flavor and presentation. Entry fee is $100 for teams and $50 for individuals. All proceeds will benefit The Imperial Calcasieu Museum. 7:30-8 AM: SET-UP 8 AM: COOKING BEGINS NOON-12:30: JUDGING BEGINS; PUBLIC INVITED TO SAMPLE 1:30 PM: WINNERS ANNOUNCED
ON-LOOKERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO COME AND SAMPLE THE FARE. Music, beverages, and lots more. Admission is $10 to sample all the entries; and, there will be a cash beverage bar. For more information on entering your special recipe, please contact the Imperial Calcasieu Museum at 439-3793.
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AUGUST 27, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 11
The
Boiling
P l
Please submit press releases to lauren@thejambalayanews.com
Membership Vice President; Ashley McMahon, Assistant Treasurer; Lisa Trouth, Parliamentarian; Julie Miller, Advisory Planning & Bylaws Chair; Lisa Verrette, Strategic Planning Chair; Tara Hawkins, Placement Chair; and Trisha Garber, Nominating Chair.
From left to right: Sally Bertrand, CITGO Safety Awareness Committee Chairperson; Melanie Kellogg, E.K. Key Elementary Principal; Laura LeDoux, E.K. Key Elementary Assistant Principal; Pat Melancon, CITGO Government and Public Affairs Senior Administrative Assistant; and Don Fruge, CITGO General Manager of Engineering and Technical Services. CITGO Employees Purchase School Supplies CITGO Petroleum Corporation recently announced that $2,634 was collected from generous employee donations to purchase school supplies for the company’s partner in education elementary school, E.K. Key Elementary in Sulphur. “Our Safety Awareness Committee really stepped up to help raise enough funds to purchase school supplies for more than 105 students,” said Eduardo Assef, vice president and general manager of CITGO’s Lake Charles Manufacturing Complex. MSU Career Fair Sept. 21 Employers interested in recruiting McNeese State University graduates and/or students for full-time and part-time positions as well as for possible internships are invited to make plans to participate in the Fall 2009 Career Fair on Sept. 21 sponsored by McNeese Career Services. The event is scheduled from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Parra Ballroom of the New Ranch (Student Union Annex). McNeese students of all majors and classifications as well as MSU alumni are invited to participate and bring their resumes. Employers interested in participating may submit the vendor fair form online at www.mcneese.edu/career, or contact the McNeese Career Services Center at (337) 475-5612 or at (800) 622-3352, ext. 5612. Junior League of Lake Charles, Inc. Announces 2009-2010 Board of Directors The Junior League of Lake Charles, Inc. recently announced their 20092010 Board of Directors. They are: Ann Barilleaux, President; Melanie LeJeune, President-Elect; Kay Barnett, Sustaining Advisor; Melissa Kelty, Communications Vice President; Angela Queenan, Community Vice President; Sara Ezell, Finance Vice President; Charlotte McCann, Volume 1 • Issue 11
Pat Brown, second from left, president of Sasol North America, presents the donation to, from left, Pam McGough, coordinator of athletic development, Dr. Frank Phillips, assistant professor of environmental science, Dr. Ron Darbeau, head of the chemistry department; and Dorothy Ortego, head of the engineering technology department. Sasol North America donates $25,000 to MSU Sasol North America recently donated $25,000 to McNeese State University through the McNeese Foundation. Sasol is donating $10,000 to the new athletics field house and $15,000 to be divided among the college of engineering and engineering technology and the departments of chemistry and agricultural sciences. Judge Gene Thibodeaux Receives Award Judge Gene Thibodeaux, Chief Judge of the Third Circuit Court of Appeal, is the recipient of the Thurgood Marshall Award from the Judicial Council of the National Bar Association. The award was presented at the Judicial Council’s Annual Award Luncheon in San Diego on August 5. The Thurgood Marshall Award is given to a judge who has demonstrated a recognition of civil rights issues and a personal commitment to the advancement of those issues in Judge Gene Thibodeaux the community, and to a judge who serves as a role model for lawyers and judges. Judge Thibodeaux attended Washington High School in Lake Charles, received his undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College, and his law degree from Tulane Law School, where he was an Earl Warren Scholar. Continued on page 9 AUGUST 27, 2009
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COWBOY FOOTBALL Sept. 5 vs. Henderson State 7 p.m. Sept. 19 vs. Savannah State 7 p.m. Oct. 17 vs. Northwestern State* (HC) 7 p.m. Oct. 24 vs. Southeastern Louisiana* 6 p.m. Nov. 7 vs. Sam Houston State* 7 p.m. Nov. 21 vs. Central Arkansas* 7 p.m. * denotes Southland Conference game
COWGIRL SOCCER Sept. 4 vs. Baylor 4 p.m. Sept. 6 vs. Alcorn State 1 p.m. Sept. 11 vs. Houston Baptist 4 p.m. Sept. 27 vs. LSU - Shreveport 2 p.m. Oct. 2 vs. Sam Houston State* 4 p.m. Oct. 4 vs. Stephen F. Austin* 2 p.m. Oct. 16 vs. Central Arkansas* 4 p.m. Oct. 18 vs. Northwestern State* 2 p.m. Oct. 25 vs. Lamar* 2 p.m. Southland Conference Tournament Nov. 5 - 8 Natchitoches, La * denotes Southland Conference game
COWGIRL VOLLEYBALL Sept. 1 vs. Houston Baptist 7 p.m. Sept. 11 vs. Prairie View A&M 6 p.m. Sept. 12 vs. UT - Pan Am 1 p.m. Sept. 12 vs. UL - Lafayette 6 p.m. Sept. 22 vs. Louisiana Tech 7 p.m. Sept. 25 vs. Northwestern State* 7 p.m. Sept. 26 vs. Central Arkansas* 4 p.m. Oct. 3 vs. Stephen F. Austin* 4 p.m. Oct. 17 vs. TAMU - Corpus Christi* 2 p.m. Oct. 30 vs. UT - Arlington* 7 p.m. Oct. 31 vs. Texas State* 3 p.m. Nov. 13 vs. Nicholls State* 7 p.m. Nov. 14 vs. Southeastern Louisiana* 2 p.m.
COWBOY & COWGIRL CROSS COUNTRY Sept. 4 McNeese Cowboy Relay 6 p.m. Oct. 3 McNeese Cowboy Stampede 7:30 a.m. The Cowboy Stampede is a high school and collegiate event as well as a fun run open to the community. For details visit the cross country page of McNeeseSports.com Oct.31 SLC Championships - Corpus Christi, TX Nov. 14 NCAA Regionals - Waco, TX Nov. 23 NCAA Championships - Terra Haute, IN
Please contact Ryan Ivey 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.
Southland Conference Tournament Nov. 21 - 23 San Antonio, TX * denotes Southland Conference game
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Volume 1 • Issue 11
The Boiling Pot, continued from page 7 Cameron State Bank Contributes to Family & Youth Festival Candis J. Carr, Ed.D., Associate Executive Director of Family & Youth recently accepted a $5,500 contribution from Leslie Harless, Director of Marketing for Cameron State Bank, for the Family & Youth Festival 2009. The festival was held on Aug. 22 at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Family & Youth Festival is a fun event promoting family life and family values in a safe and exciting environment. It is a day of appreciation to the people of Southwest Louisiana, as well as a United Way Community Impact Day.
Billy Rose, from left, McNeese Foundation board member, and McNeese marketing and management major Martina Malone of Lake Charles, current Abadie Memorial Scholarship recipient, accept the donation from First Federal Bank representatives Charles V. Timpa, president and CEO, and Erin-Beth Hanks, public/media relations manager. To date, First Federal Bank has donated over $37,000 for this scholarship.
From left to right: Debra LeFrere, Sherwood Carpenter, Santana Tezeno, George ‘Caskey’ Worley and Elena Mejias. Not pictured: Lauretta Hines
First Federal Bank Donates to MSU First Federal Bank of Louisiana has donated $5,000 to McNeese State University through the McNeese Foundation for the C. Marshall Abadie Memorial Scholarship Fund it established several years ago.
L’Auberge du Lac Names July Five Star Employees L’Auberge du Lac Casino recently announced its July Five Star Employees and Employee of the Month. They are Santana Tezeno, a Jack Daniel’s® Bar & Grill food server; Elena Mejias, a table games pit clerk; Lauretta Hines, a casino host; Debra LeFrere, a table games dealer; Sherwood Carpenter, a security officer; and Caskey Worley, a Snake River Grill food server. LeFrere was also designated as the July Employee of the Month and is now eligible to receive the coveted Employee of the Year award. LeFrere started at L’Auberge in 2005 as part of the properties grand opening team. Five Star employees are recognized monthly for their exceptional service skills. Community Foundation of SWLA Awards Grants to SWLA Law Center Understanding that a hurricane lingers for years, the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana continues to make grants to assist people who are still affected by Rita. The Foundation has granted $10,000 to the Southwest Louisiana Law Center, a nonprofit that has provided free legal advice to hundreds of people since Rita struck the region in 2005. The Foundation has granted more than $200,000 for hurricane relief. The latest grant will help the law center assist people dealing with legal issues surrounding real estate, family law, employLisa Verrette, CEO of the Community Foundation ment, successions and wills. of SWLA, presents check to Jim Ortego, Executive For more information, visit Director of SWLA Law Center. FoundationSWLA.org. Local Child Care Provider Completes New Training Tiffany Mosley of Henning Methodist Preschool recently attended a three-week institute for area childcare providers funded by the Louisiana Department of Social Services: the Office of Family Support, Excellence for Children. Staff from over 30 centers in Calcasieu and Cameron parishes attended training three hours per week for three weeks, receiving expert instruction from guest lecturers and agency staff related to providing high quality education and care environments for the infants and toddlers they serve. Participants also toured the Project Model Classroom on-site at Henning Methodist. This classroom, manned by Mosley, who teaches up to 12 toddlers there daily, was designed to meet Louisiana DSS Quality Start high standards and funded by the project as a partnership between 1st Years and Henning Methodist Preschool. Volume 1 • Issue 11
From left to right: Rep. Mike Danahay, Megan Fontenot, Sen. Willie Mount, Rep. A.B. Franklin, Mackenzie Frank, Candis J. Carr, Ed.D., Family & Youth Associate Executive Director. The Leadership Center for Youth Receives Grant The Leadership Center for Youth recently received a $25,000 grant from the Governor’s Office of Community Programs to provide positive action and anger management to teens. Governor’s Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Program (SDFSC) supports programs that prevent violence in and around schools; prevent the illegal use of alcohol, tobacco and drugs; and involve parents and communities to foster a safe and drug-free learning environment. CITGO Employees Donate Eyeglasses CITGO Petroleum Corporation donated 324 pairs of prescription eye glasses that were collected from generous employees to the Lake Charles Elite Lions Club at their monthly meeting at Big Daddy’s Sports Grill. CITGO’s Safety Awareness Committee spearheaded the employee campaign to collect the eyeglasses as a way to refocus on safety and the community. The prescription eyeglasses will be distributed by the Louisiana Lions Club Eye Foundation, based in New Orleans, to needy individuals around the world. Northwestern Mutual Welcomes MSU Students to Top Ten Internship Program Northwestern Mutual of Lake Charles welcomes Blaine Teeter, Bobby Holland and Tre’ Stoma to its nationally recognized Top Ten Financial Representative Internship program. Teeter, Holland, and Stoma are business students at McNeese State University and natives of Lake Charles. They will attend Northwestern Mutual’s extensive training courses throughout the semester and qualify for college credit. Since the program began in 1967, more than 22,500 college students nationwide have participated in the internship. For more information about the program, contact Becky Girola at (337) 437-7826 or visit www.nminternships.com. TJN AUGUST 27, 2009
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Dang Yankee The
By Mike McHugh
Houston Strikes Back! It seems the column I wrote a little while back regarding my experiences in Houston fell into the wrong hands. I knew I shouldn’t have given those copies to my colleagues over there, even though I tried to limit the distribution to a select few. Apparently, one stray copy found itself in the waiting room of a Houston podiatrist’s office. One colleague took it with him to an appointment and left it there, where some other patients got hold of it. Based on some letters I received from them, my particular article, where I cut up on their city, appar-
ently gave them a bigger pain in the arch than the one they were already being treated for. Here’s an example: “Dear Clam Chowder Head of a Yankee: As a native Houstonian, I’m a might offended ‘bout your remark that my city ain’t part of the South. I got half a mind to pistol whip your espresso-sippin’ butt. The lack of sunshine up there where you come from has obviously affected your powers of observation. All you got to do was walk into any store around here and see the barbecued pork
there right next to the fish bait and you’d know right away where you was at. What in the heck were you expectin’ to see, longhorn cattle bein’ herded down Westheimer Road? That only happens when the rodeo’s in town. “So, you don’t like the traffic down here, eh? I swear, you Yankees are all the same—always in such a hurry to get where you’re goin’. And as soon as you get there, you’re in a hurry to git’ back. Next time you’re stuck on the Katy Freeway, turn on the radio and chill out to some Waylon or Willie or Hank, Jr. They’re on almost every station, ‘cept the one that’s got Rush. “And if you’d take just a little bit of your precious time out of your day to say “Hi” to one of us, you might actually find us to be a might friendly, even to you polo shirtwearin’ types. The only way you all seem to know how to communicate with each other up there in the North is by text messagin’. Well, OM-G! “You know, all you got to do is look in the Houston phone book to tell where you’re at. See all the Billy Bob’s and Bubba’s in there? You’d be
hard pressed to find any boys with sissy names like “Tucker” or “Ethan”. “And you think we got crime here? Well if that ain’t the polecat callin’ the coyote a varmint! Let me ask you something. You ever drive off the side of the road into a ditch up there in a Yankee town? I bet up there if anybody paid you any mind at all, it’d be somebody wantin’ to steal your hubcaps. But here in Houston, I bet five minutes wouldn’t go by before a bunch of good ol’ boys in a four-wheel drive pickup come and drag your puny BMW out of there with a towing chain. Heck, one of ‘em could probably carry it out over his shoulder, and all they’d ask in return for their effort is a sixpack of Lone Star beer. “And that pile of old car parts you saw that you thought was a sculpture? That was a pile of car parts, you moron! Don’t you know that if you ain’t got an old V-8 engine or some sort of major appliance sittin’ out in your front yard, then you ain’t considered a good ‘ol boy? Come on now, this is Texas. If it ain’t riding a horse, it ain’t worth being sculpted. “I sure did appreciate your attempt to compliment us by calling us good sports, but, then again, you were just showing your Yankee ignorance. You got that impression by going to a professional football game. You wouldn’t be singing the same tune if you’d have gone to see a couple of our high schools face off on a Friday night. “If I ever see you print any crap like that again, I’ll come find you and wrap your keyboard up in duct tape so thick you won’t be able to cut it outta’ there with a Bowie knife! Regards, Buford Hicks Houston (aka God’s Country)” My company is sending me back to Houston next week. Maybe I should ask for another assignment someplace where I might be safer, like some Middle Eastern war zone. Mike McHugh is an engineer at Sasol North America, Inc. He and his wife Susan hail from the border state of Maryland and thoroughly love living in Southwest Louisiana. He is also the author of "Road Kill Gumbo," a newly created blog containing satire about news and life in Louisiana. You can find it on the Internet at www.roadkillgumbo.com. TJN
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AUGUST 27, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 11
By George “Tip” Cline
Shopping Around In our last issue, we discussed credit cards. Let’s continue. Make sure that the card you choose gives you some kind of benefit in return. I choose one that gives me rewards that I can redeem in gift certificates from various merchants, airline miles or CASH. It is not impossible for you to figure which option I take. Cash is not universally accepted, but I’ll take my chances with it. The only reason to take a merchant certificate is if you get an additional money premium from that option. Why not get something in return for your patronage? Credit card (or debit card) fees are a cost of doing business for any merchant. That cost is figured into each sales transaction the merchant makes and is included in the price of whatever you are purchasing. They know what they are doing in their pricing, so it’s up to you to get the most bang for your buck. Take advantage of programs that give you the most. Buy the car you need For the life of me, I cannot understand why the media practices such prejudice when describing a familysize vehicle. This bias has anything much larger than a Cooper Mini portrayed as a “gas guzzler.” If you have a family, you probably car pool your kids and their friends everywhere. Please, don’t even begin to feel intimidated by those who tell you how to transport yourself and your troops. Those tiny vehicles work fine in Europe and Japan where there is no distance between locations. We are long-distance kind of folks—it’s about 2,500 miles from New York to Los Angeles. Would you like to take your family, your luggage and your whatever on a trip across America in some pintsized buggy? Of course not! If you need a vehicle that can accommodate more than the Mayor of Munchkin Volume 1 • Issue 11
Land, get what you need and don’t look back. If you only need a vehicle for transporting yourself to work, check out the government rebates on a little car that will qualify for your needs. Wine tastings abound It seems like there are more and more wine tastings coming up each week. They’ve really become popular. I know we’re riding the crest of the wave and there will eventually be a reduction in the number, but for now, wine lovers are having a field day. Check with your favorite wine source or wine-loving friend for the next happening. Some have weekly events, like The Wine Store every Thursday, and Hokus Pokus on Friday. Pujo St. Café usually has a monthly event—generally on a Tuesday, and I’ve been told that Mazen’s restaurant, in conjunction with Homsi’s Liquors, has scheduled Monday night tastings. Someone just needs to take care of Wednesday, and you’ve got a full week of wine! Get the most for your money I shop fairly often at good ole Wally Mart. I know, yeah, the great Satan. Say what you want, but you can just about find whatever you need there. But they’re remodeling their stores and I’m not real sure if it’s going to be as good as it was. They’ve dropped a number of items that I used go there specifically to get; they’ve terminated some departments altogether; they’ve eliminated some sizes of packaging (if the 14 oz. pound isn’t confusing enough); some prices have nearly doubled (their own 1-liter size Sam’s Choice mixers went from $.50 to $.68 to $.98 the last time I was there); and they’re rearranging many departments. As always, be vigilant in your shopping—need I remind you that it is your purchasing
power that you’re dealing with? Whenever you spend your dollar, you’re telling that merchant that the product you’re purchasing is worth what he’s charging you. It’s in your power to let that merchant know that you’re not willing to pay a price that’s too high by not purchasing that product. Remember last Christmas’ shopping season? There were real deals— good discounts—because consumers were wary and smart with their purchases. Don’t lose that power and spread your money around foolishly. Demand good value for your hardearned paycheck. Don’t be swayed by some marketing guru telling you it’s a value package. They love to call things a “Value Deal.” Do your homework and get what you deserve for your greenback. They will hear you when you do, and don’t, make their cash register ring. There are times when you just have to bite the bullet and cough up the dough when you have no choice. But you always have the right try to negotiate. Whether or not you get it your way is something else. What do you have to lose by offering to make a deal with whomever you are doing business with? The worst is hearing them say
no, and you’re no worse off than when you started. You may lose a battle or two—but win the war. Adopt a pet We were owned by an Australian Shepherd for 15 years. Duchess was such a part of our life that when she was laid to rest, it took us four years to get back into a dog. The reason I bring this up is because we got Gracie Lu (Aussie/German Shepherd cross) as a rescue dog. She is not a replacement for Duchess; she is herself. She abounds with her own love and affection. There are many (too many, actually) orphan animals out there. If your family needs additional love, please consider taking advantage of a great opportunity by checking out the animal shelter or one of the local organizations that deal with homeless animals. Gracie Lu came neutered and worm-free with shots and an ID chip. It’s hard to ask for more when you get those big, trusting eyes radiating that you’re the one that was duped into thinking that you’re in charge. If you find this column of interest, let The Jambalaya News know. Comments, suggestions, ideas, info, etc. are welcome. Send to lauren@thejambalayanews.com.
TJN
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PAGE 11
Story and photos by by Jeanne Owens, Charleston Gallery and Antiques Strolling through some of the area’s historic cemeteries is literally strolling through history—and, oh, if we knew the stories that lie just beneath the surface! Bilbo Cemetery, circa 1830, is the oldest in Lake Charles with over 200 Lake Charles pioneers buried along the lakeshore, including founder Jacob Ryan, who died in 1899. Originally, in the late 1820s and early 1830s, the site was a military
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outpost called Cantonment Atkinson, established to present a strong American presence in the disputed “No Man’s Land.” Thomas Bilbo bought the land in 1832, and his family lived in the camp’s sturdy log “mess hall.” The youngest Bilbo daughter, Margaret, is believed to be the first buried on the site; bricks from the military camp were used for early tombs and markers. Floodwaters, vandalism, and time wiped away many of the grave markers and almost destroyed Bilbo Cemetery, but today, it is restored and gated. The Millennium Statue of Jesus Christ is a center point, standing 23 feet over the resting places of early settlers. The statue was sculpted by Janie Stine LaCroix, a descendant of Jacob Ryan. LaCroix says creating the statue was meaningful yet dangerous,
since pouring molten bronze on such a large scale is treacherous. Magnolia (City) Cemetery, circa 1869, on Church Street between Hodges and Moss was the first community burying place established by the City of Lake Charles as opposed to family cemeteries. Most grave markers were cypress wood crosses or painted headboards that have deteriorated, but the stone markers tell stories of Lake Charles’ oldest families. Many workmen who came here to build the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1870s died of a mysterious malady, perhaps dysentery, and are buried here. One tale involves the last case of the Yellow Fever epidemic in the late 1890s, which caused hysteria, ropedoff streets, and the shutdown of schools, hotels, and business. A young
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traveling salesman from New Orleans was unfortunately quarantined in the Howard Hotel with the “yellow jack,” yet felt well enough to order “anything in the kitchen.” Twenty- four hours after downing a full tray of corned beef and cabbage, he was dead. The gravediggers, afraid to get near the body, hastily dug a short, shallow grave, and for weeks passersby were shocked at the sight of an upended coffin sticking out of the ground. Eventually the family was allowed to come to town to give him a decent burial. The cemetery closed to new burials in 1894, and about a third of it was displaced in the 1950s for Interstate 10 rights of way. Goos Family Cemetery on North Shattuck Street, circa 1870, was established in Goosport near the homesite and lumber mill of Captain Daniel Johannes Goos and his wife, by their descendants. Goos, from the Isle of Föhr, Denmark, in the North Sea, and his wife, Katherine Barbara Moeling Goos from Germany, encouraged German immigrants to move here to work in his mill. He also built a fleet of schooners that broke though a Civil War Union blockade to transport lumber to Galveston. Many graves bear German and Friesan names, as do the streets in former Goosport such as Moeling, Katherine, Medora, and Fitzenreiter. The cemetery was dedicated for the Goos family—a number of Goos’ 15 children preceded him in death—and is surround by a cemetery for employees of Goos family businesses. French, Italian, and Irish names on headstones in the Old Catholic Cemetery, circa 1861, on the corner of Common and Iris streets hint at the number of immigrants that came to Lake Charles during the timber boom. The oldest graves are in the center and south sections in this site from a land grant signed by Abraham Lincoln. Many graves are unmarked because of weathered and deteriorated wooden markers; the cemetery was closed to new burials in 1908. Oak alleys, mature azaleas and shade trees planted in honor of loved ones make Orange Grove and Graceland Cemeteries, circa 1890, like a park on East Broad and Goos Streets. Many prominent citizens, working men and women, politicians, and business leaders are buried side by side—the same manner in which they worked in life in an early Lake Charles that boomed with sawmills, rice, and oil production. The older gravesites are in Volume 1 • Issue 11
Orange Grove with numerous highly decorative vaults and monuments typical of the time. A Jewish memorial and burial site is in Graceland, representing many well-known civic leaders who helped build Lake Charles. Each Veterans’ Day, hundreds of full-size American flags line the drives in an Avenue of Flags salute to military veterans. Now named Hamilton Garden of Memories, Reeves CME Graveyard, circa 1866, at 1400 Winterhalter connects to Reeves Temple CME Church—one of the very first African American congregations in Louisiana after the CME Churches separated from the MethodistEpiscopal Church South in 1866. The cemetery represents the oldest African-American congregation in the Imperial Calcasieu five-parish region. Two aspects make Sacred Heart/Combre Memorial Park cemeteries on Opelousas Street, east of U.S. Hwy 171, distinctive—the north-to-south orientation for gravesites in Sacred Heart, and the Combre mass grave for 1957 Hurricane Audrey victims. These cemeteries have a history of dedication to the African-American community. Charles Anselm Sallier (17761834), Lake Charles’ namesake, is buried in Sallier Cemetery, circa 1834, on South Ryan at Bellvue—a family cemetery prior to its 1844 donation. Sallier was the first known white settler on Shell Beach, emigrating from Savoy, France and marrying Catherine LeBleu. Headstones bear many French and European names common to this area like Babineaux, LeBlanc, Reon, LaGrange, Benoit, and, of course, Sallier. Although a modern cemetery on Gulf Highway south of McNeese Street, Highland Memorial Gardens is historically significant because of the mass grave for the unknown dead from the 1957 Hurricane Audrey which took Cameron by surprise and wiped out everything in its path. Almost 500 were killed; about a third of those were children. My family does not hesitate to wander through cemeteries. In fact, we honor annual “graveyard cleanings” when we all gather for a day in ancestral cemeteries to mow, rake, clean, and have a picnic lunch. In fact, my husband and I often meet for lunch under a tree in a cemetery as a nice break from a hectic day—a little weird for some people, but a great way to put a busy life into perspective.
As an artist, nature has been my primary source of inspiration for painting. Each painting is a slice of reality filtered through my eyes and preserved for a while longer.
TJN
AUGUST 27, 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’ Fine Dining on the Bayou The Landing recently opened in the former Bennigan’s location on Contraband Bayou, and it’s already getting rave reviews. Business partners Josh Rogers and Kurt Strang have put together a wonderful menu of choice items with something for everyone. Menu items run the gamut from Po-boys and grilled cheese sandwiches to the more sophisticated veal chops and quail. And with their liquor license in place, The Landing is poised to become a culinary force to be reckoned with. Here are two favorite recipes that are surprisingly easy to make. Let us know how you like them! TJN Sponsored by
Quail
Veal Chop Portion 12 oz. 2 oz. As needed 4 oz. 1 oz. 4 oz.
Ingredients Veal Chop Butter Peppercorn Cabernet Reduction Hollandaise Spinach
Preparation In a medium sauce pan, melt butter and then add veal. Cook to medium unless otherwise specified. Sauté 4 oz. of spinach in same pan after veal is removed. Place veal on top of spinach, pour Cabernet reduction over the veal. PAGE 14
Kurt Strang and Josh Rogers, owners
AUGUST 27, 2009
Portion 2 whole cut 2 oz. 1 cup 2 tbsp. As needed As needed As needed As needed 2 twigs
Ingredients Quail Salad Oil Julienne onions Garlic (chopped) Rosemary Black Pepper Kosher Salt Fresh Chopped Parsley Rosemary
Preparation Add 2 oz. salad oil in a sauté pan. Add chopped garlic and julienne onions. Season quail with rosemary, black pepper and kosher salt. Place quail in sauté pan with oil, onion and garlic. Sauté quail until internal temp reaches 165 F. Garnish with two whole rosemary twigs. Enjoy!
Volume 1 • Issue 11
from personal experience and patient interaction, I’ll give two examples that help me on a daily basis: An excerpt from Isaiah 41:10 “Fear not, for I am with you…”
By Steve Springer M.D.
To Be Stressed… or Not to Be Stressed? That is the Question!
You have just taken off for a stroll through the woods on your first trip to Alaska. This is something you have wanted to do for years, and finally, the planets aligned and you are there, basking in the freedom of the wilderness. As you skirt the next tree in your path and eye the trail ahead, your foot falls heavy like an anvil. There’s silence—no movement, no breathing—only the sight of a Kodiak bear (which can weigh up to 1,500 pounds) ominously commanding the attention of your dilated pupils. Lets explore some of the feelings you may be having at this moment in time: Heart beating fast, shortness of breath, dry mouth, hot flushes, or sweating—to name a few. In 1915, the famous Harvard physiologist Walter Cannon coined the term “Fight or Flight Response,” one that most of us have heard before. This pre-programmed physiologic response does wonders for the above scenario of “human meets bear,” but at the office or behind the wheel of a car…not really. All that increase in blood flow to the muscles (so we can run) or the flood of stress hormones released from the base of the brain (sharpening vision and increasing heart rate so we can fight or run) is essentially wasted in our everyday lives. It’s hard to believe that simple commonplace situations can elicit such responses, but they can. When we are overwhelmed with excessive stress, our life can become a series of short-term emergencies. We lose the ability to relax and enjoy the moment, and can end up living from crisis to crisis. I love the quote from Mark Twain, who said, “I’ve experienced many terrible things in my life, a few of which actually happened.” Okay, Doc, we get the point! So what do we do about it? Glad you asked. Here are a few common sense things we know about but rarely do: Eating well-balanced meals, getting enough sleep, drinking less caffeine, controlled breathing, exercising on a regular basis. I like the idea of short bursts of exercise to burn off or metabolize those stress hormones if your health allows. I find that taking the stairs at the hospital will wind a stressful day down a notch for me. Maybe even closing the door to your office and doing 10 or 15 pushups or running in place for a minute or two will be light enough activity, but enough to get your “fight or flight” out of the way. It is difficult to be, feel, or think positive if you are exhausted, sleep deprived, or physically out of condition. Other more introspective ideas: • Make a list of the things that are causing your stress and accept that you can’t control all of them; • Take control of what you can on that list; • Take it easy on yourself; and • Don’t commit yourself to things you can’t do or don’t want to do. Controlling excessive worry can simply boil down to your personal faith and/or belief systems. I could list pages of things in this category, but Volume 1 • Issue 11
A poem that was written in 400 A.D. by Kalidasa, one of the greatest of the Sanskrit dramatists: “Look to this day: For it is life, the very life of life. For yesterday is but a dream And tomorrow is only a vision; And today well-lived, makes Yesterday a dream of happiness And every tomorrow a vision of hope.” I read that poem the summer after my first year in college while in a doctor’s office. I was working for a pathology lab in Shreveport and just happened upon it in a hallway. I stood there until I memorized it because I felt there was a great deal of wisdom in that statement. I also felt decidedly less stressed as I ran out the door to the next office on my list. I hope some or all of this may be helpful to you the next time you find yourself facing “the bear.” You may even find it easy to answer the question, “To be stressed, or not to be stressed?” Steve Springer, M.D.
TJN
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AUGUST 27, 2009
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From left to right: Alan Kratzer, former airport manager; Kelvin Solco, Manager, Airports Division, SW Region of the FAA; and Heath Allen, Airport Manager.
New Terminal Project Completed at LC Airport Lake Charles Airport Manager Heath Allen beamed with pride as he thanked everyone involved in the new terminal project at a ribbon-cutting ceremony, held Fri., Aug. 21, at the airport. Allen acknowledged Kelvin Solco, Manager, Airports Division, SW Region of the FAA, along with former airport manager, Alan Kratzer. The new terminal replaces the old passenger terminal that was severely dam-
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aged by Hurricane Rita in 2005. It was Kratzer’s vision that Lake Charles would have a new terminal that featured state-of-the-art amenities to ensure the safe and efficient movement of passengers into and out of Southwest Louisiana. “I am an airport manager and this is my airport,” Kratzer joked, recognizing everyone who had worked diligently on the four-year project. TJN
Parents Now Workshop On Sat., Sept. 12, the “Parents Now Workshop” will be held at University United Methodist Church, located at 3501 Patrick Street Lake Charles, LA., from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The workshop is designed to help parents guide and direct their children in today’s world that is littered with signs that can quickly misguide them. Presenters are Robbie Dowden, Brenda Gueringer, Nathaniel Langford, James McGee and Yvonne Pauley. Topics include setting limits for parents and children, talking to
your children at any age, praying with your children, balancing work and home, and raising generous children. The cost is $15 per person. This will include a picnic lunch for both parents and children. Activities will also be provided for children up to 12 years old whose parents will be attending the workshop. For more information contact Gayla Abshire at gabshire620@yahoo.com or Molly Morgan at mollymor@worldnet.att.net.
TJN
Volume 1 • Issue 11
A Greener
W
Green Crusaders
RLD
Judy Reeves and the St. Margaret’s Science Club
Testing the water: Kayla Schram, Taylor Guillory and Maaliyah Papillion
By Erica McCreedy In the city’s ongoing and quickly accelerating efforts to become more green, community leaders are finding themselves as invaluable agents in the environmental plans that are sprouting up around them. In the education system, perhaps one of the last places one would look to find a green crusade, is Judy Reeves, a science teacher at St. Margaret’s Catholic School in Lake Charles. Reeves, a Kinder native, has found that in order to expand the efforts of the city’s hope for a greener tomorrow, she must look at what is most familiar to her and what she is best at. Through her experience as an elementary and junior high school science teacher, Reeves realizes that to continue and nurture humanity’s growing awareness of environmental problems and their solutions, new generations must take pivotal roles in the green movement.
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Her students’ constant eagerness in the classroom to make a difference in the world gave Reeves the opportunity to not only support her student’s ideas, but to also bring their aspirations into the community where the students could see their own impact every day. By transferring her student’s efforts from the classroom and into the community, Reeves establishes a new front line. “I’m trying to get Lake Charles on board with being green,” Reeves stated in an interview the other day. “We’re trying to help the whole world, but we can’t save the entire planet. I’m working from one area and am branching out into Louisiana.” This is an ongoing process that has been in the works, under Reeves, for 14 years now. Letting students become more involved encourages a greater chance of a widespread awareness in future generations.
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Judy Reeves and Madison Blackwell, past president of “When I was growing up, no one told me the St. Margaret’s Science Club, accept their award there were environmental problems. They were from Debbie Serra of Keep Louisiana Beautiful. out there, but I had no idea they existed,” said Reeves. Now, she brings environmental awareness and education directly into her classroom by incorporating current affairs with environmental efforts into her curriculum. Through her science club, Reeves has been able to bring her students into the community’s focus by continuously working on projects that educate businesses and individuals on how to be conscious of the environment around them. The group works with the broad spectrum of the
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environment, including land, air, water, and energy. The students play all roles within Reeves’ team, and while she acts as a cheerleader for her students, it is up to them to be the face and voice of the group. When the recycling center in Sulphur shut down, the students contacted government officials and brainstormed with the mayor on new ways to bring recycling back to the community. Out of this endeavor came the new roving recycling truck, which not only was something the city could afford, but also brought recycling efforts to several areas within Lake Charles instead of just one location. The students continued this by handing out flyers and magnets with the roving truck’s schedule (which can be found at the end of this article). “The students do whatever it takes to bring awareness to this city,” said Reeves. Acting as city liaisons, the students participate in energy expos by inviting local businesses into the schools so that both the businesses and the students can learn from each other on how to affect the community with greener efforts. After experiencing great support from both the city and local businesses, the group has now shifted their aims to the peak of Louisiana’s environmental problems: Coastal restoration. So far, they’ve worked closely with the Coalition to Restore Coastline. With their efforts
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The Arts and Humanities Council of SWLA Welcomes New Director greatly affecting Rockefeller Refuge and Martin Beach (the group planted marsh and beach grass this summer to help with erosion), Reeve’s team moved to bring wellhead awareness to the region with the help of the Department of Environmental Quality. They hold monthly meetings with the DEQ in the classroom, helping to educate businesses that are within a 10-mile radius of a wellhead on proper clean up and care of the land. The team plans to continue working on water projects throughout Southwest Louisiana. Reeves hopes to bring more government attention to Southwest Louisiana for aid in coastline and water projects. Without the necessary funding for environmental education and projects, Reeves (along with the many other schools and individuals whom she has inspired to start green projects) would find herself greatly lacking the means to affect the world around her. While there has been much improvement, Reeves had hoped that the green movement “was more of a bang in the city.” But local support is growing. Lake Charles’ businesses and organizations are spreading the green movement, which encourages Reeves to continue her own. By attending national conferences and making contacts with larger green programs, Reeves brings a bit of the bigger picture back to Lake Charles. Along with her great drive, she merely wishes to inspire and, as she has done for nearly two decades, educate. “We work for a greener tomorrow. That’s our goal.” Team Green Lake Area Recycling Program Mon.-Thurs. (11 a.m. - 2 p.m.) Monday: Wal-Mart, North Hwy 171 Tuesday: Stine Lumber, Nelson Road Wednesday: Kroger’s, 12th Street Thursday: K-Mart, Ryan at Sale Road Sat. Wal-Mart, Hwy 14, 8 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Prien Lake Mall, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
TJN
Matt Young recently assumed the position of Executive Director of the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana. Working with the Council’s Board of Directors, staff and volunteers, Young foresees great potential for strengthening the support provided to the region’s presenters, performers and artists. “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to continue the growth of cultural tourism and share our heritage and culture with both residents and visitors alike,” he stated. Over the past four years, the coun-
cil has enhanced the level of support for non-profit and performing agencies throughout Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron and Jefferson Davis Parishes. Just this year, the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury instituted the new Project Assistance Grant for project funding. The City of Lake Charles and the Convention and Visitors Bureau, as well as the Louisiana Division of the Arts, all utilize the council’s expertise in managing on-going grant programs to bolster local and regional programming.
Young was born and raised in DeRidder. A DeRidder High School graduate, he earned a Bachelor of Arts from Louisiana Tech. After college, he worked in public relations in California, but he was drawn back to his hometown. Young has assisted the City of DeRidder, the Beauregard Parish Court House, June Jenkins Women’s Shelter, and Beauregard Parish Police Jury in securing funding from dozens of grant sources. TJN
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1 0 9 W. L a G r a n g e , L a k e C h a r l e s Volume 1 • Issue 11
AUGUST 27, 2009
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By Lauren de Albuquerque
Just beginning your college experience? Here are some pointers to make sure you get the most out of your years of higher education. Remember: They’ll never come again! The basics First of all, you need to realize that college is a lot different than high school. You won’t have your parents on your back to make sure you get all your homework done. You’re in charge now—so don’t screw it up! This includes getting plenty of rest, taking your vitamins, and basically taking care of yourself—something a lot of freshmen fail to do that first year away from home. Try to eat healthy as much as you can. Yes, there are salads and fruit in the cafeteria— you don’t have to exist on junk food alone!
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Consider your personal interests when choosing your major. There’s nothing worse than picking a major because of the current job market or because your parents are insisting on it—and it’s a subject that you could care less about. Choose a program that you like and that you’ll enjoy studying. Talk with faculty and students in your academic areas of interest. Become involved in student organizations or volunteer for activities related to the field. Conduct an informational interview with a professional to make sure you’re making the right choice. At the same time, take risks. Your future is very important, but college isn’t just about getting good grades. It’s also a time to learn more about the world and yourself. Try some-
thing new. Take some elective classes in other subjects, and even enjoy some extracurricular activities if you have the time. My husband took a juggling class to relieve stress while he was going to Michigan State’s School of Engineering—and ended up joining the circus! You don’t have to be as drastic as that, of course—but see how one little class can change your life? Set goals for yourself. Every term, reset your goals to keep you motivated and give you something to work toward. Make new friends. Even if a lot of your high school buddies are going to your college, make sure you branch out and meet new people. Expand your horizons! Participate in campus
activities. If a student organization throws a function, or if the school hosts a public speaker or a politician, go. You never know who you’re going to meet. Speaking of that, try to study abroad, if possible. Most colleges offer some type of semester abroad program. You may be able to attend classes for a semester or even a year in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, or South America. Get to know the requirements for these programs early on so you can plan accordingly. Check out www.studyabroad.com for more information. Study the right way Let’s face it, you’re going to be having a lot of fun, and there’s no
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one to yell at you if you stay out all night. If you don’t watch out, you can get yourself into a big mess. So make sure that nothing interferes with your studying. You’ll soon figure out the optimum time to study—which is right before and right after class. So try not to schedule back-to-back classes. It’s important to establish a routine time to study for each class. For every hour you spend in class, you’ll probably need to study two hours outside class. Try to study for each subject at the same time and in the same place, if possible. Establish a good place to study. If your dorm room is too noisy, then go the library, or anyplace where you can find peace and quiet. It should be as free of distractions as possible, and not a place where you routinely do other things. Try to do as much of your studying in the daytime as you can. What takes you an hour to do during the day may take you an hour and a half at night. But you know your time clock—some students have more energy in the evening. When I was in college, I would stay up all night when I was writing my term papers (on a typewriter—imagine that?). The rest of the world was asleep and I found that after 11:00 p.m., I’d get a second wind that
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would take me through the night. Of course, that doesn’t work if you have to get up early for class the next day—so use your head! Make sure you schedule breaks. Take a ten-minute break after every hour of study. If possible, avoid long blocks of time for studying. Spread out several short study sessions during the day. Try to find a few students from each class to study with. Studies show that students who study with someone routinely make better grades. You will probably find yourself more motivated if you know someone else cares about what you’re doing in the class. And, teaching a concept to someone else is a sure way for you to understand it. But watch out: Studying in a group can sometimes become too social—so stay focused! College resources Make use of the study resources available on campus. Use labs, videos, computer programs, and alternate texts. Sign up for an orientation session in the campus library and computer facilities. Going to the library may not be as easy as doing a Google search, but the quality of the sources in a university library is second to none. For example, you’ll be able to research centuries-old articles from
newspapers –something that you can’t find on the Internet. Find a tutor if you need help. Your student peers or teaching assistants often serve as tutors in subjects that are giving you problems. It can be easier to learn from someone your own age. Get to know your professors. It may take some effort to get many of them to even learn your name, but it will come in handy when you need a letter of recommendation or if you plan on doing an independent study. Find out their office hours and make it a point to visit each professor at least once every term. If you have questions about the class, ask them. Remember, your professors are there to help you learn. Take advantage of that. Additionally, visit your advisor every term. This will keep you on track for graduation. Especially in the beginning, your advisor can be a big help recommending which classes you should take, or helping you choose a major. Finally, make sure that you seek counseling if you’re lonely, depressed or feeling overwhelmed. Most campuses offer a counseling center; so don’t be afraid to take advantage of this resource if you need to.
TJN
AUGUST 27, 2009
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Story by Lisa Yates, Photographs by Darrell Buck Lively, yet laid-back – casual, yet upscale – The Landing at Contraband is the only restaurant in Lake Charles offering waterfront dining. Since opening in late July, The Landing, nestled on Contraband Bayou, at 1103 W. Prien Lake Road, has been attracting a growing and devoted clientele. Whether dining alfresco, or indoors, it’s a place where you can sit back and enjoy a view of boats on a shimmering bayou. The Landing at Contraband has become the place to see and be seen. Business owners Josh Rogers and Kurt Strang launched this locallyowned business because they felt there was a need for it in Lake Charles.
“We love the lifestyle here, but there was one thing missing – waterfront dining,” Strang said. “We wanted to bring that back to the community.” Rogers said the venue is particularly popular with local boaters, who can anchor right up to the dock. “The Sunday after we opened, a boat pulled up with a man on an inner tube, wearing a swimsuit, T-shirt and flip flops,” he said. “He got out and ordered a Porterhouse steak – the most expensive thing on the menu,” he said. The concept behind The Landing is called fine/casual. Rogers said it’s a new concept he and Strang are developing.
“It’s casual dining with a relaxed atmosphere, but with a wider menu,” he said. “The menu features a little bit of everything from a grilled cheese sandwich on Texas toast, for $5, to an 18-ounce USDA choice Porterhouse, at $32. There’s also an extensive wine list.” He said the restaurant “hits everybody’s pocketbook and everybody’s palate.”
tude of great choices, including fresh seafood and steak specialties, as well, lamb, veal, duck and quail entrées. “When we wrote the menu, we wanted to have things you couldn’t get anywhere else,” Rogers said. “One neat thing to do is top one of our meat entrées with one of our sauces. That way you can make it whatever you want.”
A creative menu
The unique and creative menu offers a multi-
Kurt Strang and Josh Rogers, owners PAGE 22
AUGUST 27, 2009
Volume 1 • Issue 11
Strang said sauce choices include Cajun cream, hollandaise, béarnaise, cabernet and more. “I can just put some of that Cajun cream sauce on a bowl of dirty rice and that’ll just send me home,” he said. “We also have a great traditional New Orleans-style barbeque shrimp. It has several spices blended with herbs and butter cooked in ice cold beer. It’s served with toasted baquette bread that’s great for dipping!” The Landing offers plenty of fresh seafood from Louisiana, such as crab and crawfish, Strang said. He added the restaurant’s shrimp comes from the Gulf, which is supplied by local industries. Other fresh fish is flown in daily. The selection varies, but includes tuna, lemon fish, swordfish (cut in-house) and red snapper. Strang said to check the chalkboard in the front of the restaurant; that’s where the fresh catch of the day is listed. “We have fresh salmon on the menu every day,” he added. Strang said if you enjoy a quality steak, try any on the menu. “All of our steaks come from Halperns’ – that’s a specialty meat company in Georgia,” he said. “The family created Buckhead Beef Company, which supplies restaurants like Ruth’s Chris Steak House. When the company was bought out, the family started Halperns. We order directly from them. The quality of the steaks is absolutely amazing.”
Signature items You’ll find a large selection of appetizers on the menu, including signature items you won’t find on many menus: shrimp and okra hushpuppies; Contraband cakes; crab fondue; and, fried green tomatoes. Rogers developed his own recipe for the shrimp and okra hushpuppies, which is served with lemon dill sauce for dipping. He said his wife loves fried green tomatoes, so he added it to the menu. “It’s our No. 1 best-selling appetizer,” he said. Also, there’s a lunch menu that includes a shrimp burger. Strang explained the shrimp burger is made like a crab cake – only with shrimp. “It’s an oversized Contraband cake, dressed with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, grilled and served on a big sourdough bun,”
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he said. “It’s another one of our signature items.” Desserts come from Terra Cotta’s Bakery, another locally-owned restaurant. Strang said the dessert menu changes every day. “We’ve had tiramisu, double chocolate explosion cheesecake, Italian crème cake, red velvet, strawberry cake with cream cheese icing and triple fudge chocolate cake,” he said. Coming soon – Sunday brunch!
Built on success
After Bennigan’s closed, Rogers and Strang jumped at the chance to open The Landing, reviving waterfront dining in Lake Charles. “We’ve been a good team for 10 years,” Strang said. “We thought we’d continue that.” Rogers was the general manager of a successful local franchise owned by Strang, a gig he still has. “We wanted to create our own concept – our own brand,” he said. “As a franchise, you’re handcuffed. We wanted the creative freedom to do things our own way.” It seems to be working. “Every day has been better than the last,” Strang said. “This Friday has been our best Friday, yet. During the poker run on Saturday, we had 75 to 80 people out on the patio where we cooked crawfish.” The waterfront patio is becoming a popular gathering space. Strang said it is an ideal setting for crawfish and crab boils and live music. On the second floor of the restaurant, there’s a full service bar and a banquet hall that is perfect for parties – and, another venue for live entertainment. For upcoming information on live music and other events at the restaurant, check The Landing’s page on Facebook. The Landing is offering full-service catering, on and off the premises, through SWLA Catering Company, located upstairs. “The property provides for a unique business,” Strang said, “It’s like having three businesses in one.” You’ll love the ambiance of waterfront dining and the extra attention you get from the staff at The Landing. Strang said the reason his restaurant businesses have been successful can be summed up in four words: quality, value, service and reputation. From the get-go, his philosophy has been simple. “Show up and try to do the right thing every day for your guests and staff,” he said. “If something should go wrong, we will move heaven and earth to do what we can to correct it. And, we’ll make sure it never happens again. We want to make sure our guests never leave upset or disappointed.”
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HOURS: Dining, 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat.-Sun.; Lunch is served, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mon.-Sat.; Lounge hours: 11 a.m.-until. CONTACT: (337) 478-7774; Catering, (337) 478-1110; www.swlacateringco.com. TJN
Volume 1 • Issue 11
Sponsored by
Juli Wilson, who owns Social Denim, believes by doing business with neighbors, we build a web of personal and economic relationships that are essential to a strong community. She even has a T-shirt in her boutique that reads “Shop Local.” “If you shop local for produce, you get the best nutrients for your body and you stay healthy,” she said. “The same is true when you shop local businesses. You build a healthy community.” With that in mind, The Jambalaya News is taking a look at five new businesses in Lake Charles: Social Denim, Charleston Gallery & Antiques, Precision IT, Salon Evans, and Glow Salon and Wellness Spa. Each has been open for business less than two years and is a boon to Southwest Louisiana. Creating jobs one or two at a time can have a tremendous long-term impact on our area and the economy as a whole. Volume 1 • Issue 11
Juli Wilson, owner of Social Denim
SOCIAL DENIM Social Denim, located at 706 Ryan Street, is Southwest Louisiana’s newest hot spot for the latest trends in fashion. Juli Wilson, 29, the store’s owner, used her creative talent and industry knowledge to bring a one-of-a-kind fashion boutique to downtown Lake Charles. “We have unique, hard to find labels that you won’t find anywhere between Houston
and Baton Rouge,” she said. You can experience the service of a locally owned business while shopping the brands and styles of Hollywood’s fashion forward. Social Denim carries designer jeans and dresses, T-shirts, (ever-popular) LSU apparel, däv rain boots and accessories, clothing for men and kai fragrance products. In keeping with the latest trend, the store offers “green” clothing, as well as sevAUGUST 27, 2009
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Kara Coyne, social networking specialist, is modeling fashion from Social Denim. eral lines which donate proceeds to humanitarian efforts. This season’s premium denim collection includes: True Religion, William Rast, J Brand, Joe’s Jeans, 7 for all mankind, Paige Premium Denim, Citizens of Humanity, Hudson, and PRVCY. Other apparel lines include Ella Moss, T-Bags, Splendid, Voom, Interlude, Akiko, Frock, and Bobi. Wilson, a native of Lake Charles, graduated from the U.C. Santa Barbara and started working in the fashion industry as a buyer for Fred Segal where she established valuable connections with designers. “The connections I’ve made as a buyer for Fred Segal allowed me to pick up jean lines like Rockin Republic,” she said, explaining distribution is limited to high-end boutiques - in keeping with the brand’s image. “We offer really unique products. You can’t find these lines anywhere else in town. Everything is exclusive to Social Denim.” A year-and-a-half ago, Wilson opened Social Denim. She named the new business Social Denim because, she said, “I wanted to make jean shopping a fun, social experience.” Wilson said jean shopping involves trying on many pairs to find just the right one that makes you look and feel great. “We have jeans for all body shapes, high- and low-waisted, size 0 to 14,” she said. “We have specialordered sizes 16 and 18.” One of the biggest misconceptions people have with the store is that it’s going to be expensive, according to Wilson. She said there’s an availability of flattering jeans at every price point. “We have two new lines that start at lower price Sponsored by points,” she said. Prices start at $60, for Dish jeans, a new line Wilson PAGE 26
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added for fall; Blank jeans come in at $70 to $99. “Some of our most popular dresses start at $30; t-shirts start at $15,” she said. Another popular item includes (form-fitting) LSU graphic tees. “Our T-shirts are true ladies Tshirts,” Wilson said. “They are cut smaller than men’s; they are more fitted.” Previews of the newest clothes and clothing lines can be seen on Social Denim’s Facebook page. Wilson said the medium is an opportunity to connect with customers and it provides a platform for communicating about products. Social Denim does a great deal of public relations through social networking. Kara Coyne is the store’s social networking specialist. “We want feedback,” she said. “We listen to our customers and that’s a huge benefit you won’t get from a big department store.” Listening to customers, Social Denim launched Social Dress. Social Dress is a division within Social Denim. It includes a combination of edgy and elegant, more fashion forward trends, as well as contemporary and classic pieces. “About half the store is dresses,” Wilson said. “I just got back from market where they’re showing girls in dresses as the trend this season. This fall, we’re also adding bags and jewelry.” The next thing to come – shoes! Wilson and her staff (Kara Coyne and Jennifer Elliot) are warm, friendly people dedicated to making your shopping experience pleasant. “We want everyone to leave happy,” she said. “We strive to have jeans for everyone. We want to create a fun, happy shopping experience. Unlike a department store, we get to know our customers.” Volume 1 • Issue 11
CHARLESTON GALLERY & ANTIQUES Down the street, at 900 Ryan Street, in the historic Charleston Hotel downtown, a retired English teacher is making a dream come true. After spending years selling antiques and collectibles on a part-time basis in booths at other shops, as well as on eBay, Jeanne Owens decided the time was right to fulfill her dream of opening her own shop. In January, she opened Charleston Gallery & Antiques. “It’s a pipe dream that took,” she said. Besides antique furniture ranging from high-end French, shabby chic and English pieces, Charleston Gallery & Antiques carries a unique mix of antique accessories as well as new gift and home décor items. Work from local artists, vintage and new costume jewelry is also for sale at Charleston Gallery & Antiques. “On the antique side, we have everything from Victorian to primitive,” Owens said. “We have everything from chamber pots to cameos and some silly things, like a Tasmanian devil light up fixture. We also have some very, very rare things.” Owens recently acquired a lovely collection of vintage Sabino Glass. “I believe we have the Sponsored by largest collection of it in this area,” she said. The type of collectibles in the shop is varied.
From an old brooch, antique glasses, hats and dishes, to Lladro porcelain and jeweled pill boxes, the shop has a little of everything. Owens wanted to create a relaxing shopping experience for customers. “Everybody has a story to tell; everybody has an emotional connection,” she said, noting customers often find pieces that bring back memories. “It sounds trite to say, but I wanted to create a place where people could come in, look and talk about the things they love and beyond – their actual life experiences.” In addition to offering a wide array of collectibles, the 4,000 square-foot shop serves as a showcase for original paintings by local and regional artists. “We rotate our shows,” Owens said, adding a new exhibit is scheduled for November. “We have so much talent in the area. Our local artists are fantastic.” She is drawn to collecting and displaying a wide range of fine art. “The paintings reflect a wide range of styles,” she said. “We have contemporary mixed media to extremely realistic oil paintings and whimsical pieces.” Owens works with artists, who will also do commissioned pieces for her clients. She said some want original paintings reflecting certain themes and using colors coordinating with their décor. Jeanne Owens, owner of Charleston Gallery & Antiques
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For those who like the look of an original, Owens recommended a gicleé (pronounced jee-clay) which is a digitally reproduced print on canvas. “The artist paints over it, adding texture,” she said. “It looks like an original, but it is about half the price of an original painting.” Charleston Gallery & Antiques has a good selection of serious antiques for the connoisseur, as well as hundreds of items at very reasonable prices and some great bargains. Prices range from $4 items to a $27,000 hand-stitched antique French
Aubusson rug from the 1700s. You can find a lot of funky, eclectic, unique pieces costing between $18 and $25 – including ear bobs! “We also have some cameos from World War II,” the owner added. Owens and her two employees – Jordan Gandy and Rollie Mayfield – will “go the extra mile” to help customers. “I will shop for people,” she said. “If they’re looking for a particular piece like an armoire, I’ll go to auction for them. Also, if they are looking for a piece of china, I can find it for them.”
Paul Wolfe, owner of Precision IT
Ad sponsored by The Jambalaya News
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PRECISION IT From his earliest days, computers have been a big part of Paul Wolfe’s life. “I’ve been interested in computers since I was 12 or 13 years-old,” he said. “That’s when I broke the family computer.” Wolfe, 29, remembered wanting to get his hands on the computer – not to play video games. He wanted to see how it worked. “I waited until my parents went to bed, and then I took the computer apart,” he said. “My dad was so mad.” As punishment, Wolfe had to put the computer back together again. He spent hours on the telephone with tech support learning how to do it. “It worked out in the end,” he said. It was this love for computers and fascination for how they work that led Wolfe to open Precision IT, which he runs out of his home office in Lake Charles. The business opened in January. “Things are starting to get pretty exciting,” he said. “More so in the next two to three months – that’s when I complete Apple certification and I can become part of the Apple consulting network. I’ll be the Sponsored by only person between Beaumont and Baton Rouge to have that title.”
The business specializes in end-toend IT solutions, but it can do anything computer or network related when it comes to virus removal, back up strategies, trouble shooting or wireless network clouds. Clients can even have a computer custom-built. “I build custom computers,” Wolfe said. “That’s my true passion. I can build extremely high performance machines. For those on tight budgets, I can deliver the most computer for the dollar.” Wolfe said he offers competitive rates. He does not charge for the initial consultation and he can work within specific IT budgets. He said he will not charge you if he cannot fix the problem. “I have worked for private firms, estate settings and hospitals. I’ve never liked the way IT services have been performed. It should be about helping the client,” he said. Traditionally, IT techs come in, fix problems (like virus removal) but don’t spend time showing their clients what to do to prevent problems from reoccurring, according to Wolfe. “I see things differently,” he said. “If I empower you to avoid these things, I believe you will call me back for other IT services.” Volume 1 • Issue 11
Another service Wolfe offers is educating his clients about open source software. Open source software is free software, he explained. “I’m not going to sell you a $300
Microsoft Office package, when you can get an open source software package that works just as good,” he said. “I offer solutions that most firms in town will not.” Tasha Evans, owner of Salon Evans Guest Speaker Dick Gremillion, Director and Robert Daughdril, EMS Specialist from the Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, will address a most timely issue, “Terrorism In Our Schools,” at noon, Friday, August 28, 2009 at Reeves Uptown Catering located at 1639 Ryan Street in Lake Charles. The cost is $13. for members, $15. for non-members.
Please make your reservation by emailing President, Kay Andrews at info@lwv-lc.org or calling 474-1864.
SALON EVANS Tasha Evans, a single mother, opened her salon with the support of her clients. “I was working at another salon and my clients kept telling me ‘You need to open a salon.’ Some even offered financial support,” she said. Salon Evans, at 109 W. Lagrange Street, has been open since March of 2008, in a house shared with another business, Glow Salon and Wellness. Although the two businesses share some of the same clientele, they do not duplicate services. Salon Evans is a full service salon, which includes hair styling and make up. Creating a beautiful, professional salon with a warm, inviting atmosphere was paramount to Evans. “We put value on giving personal attention to our clients,” she said. “We treat you like gold until you walk out the door.” Her pet peeve is walking into a business where the employees will walk right past you without even speaking. “The No. 1 rule in this salon is when you see someone, speak to them,” she said. She added this common act of courtesy is important and makes you feel welcome and comfortable when you are in the salon. Evans, 33, is an experienced professional, who keeps current on the latest techniques and products by regularly attending industry training programs. She also requires her stylists to attend continuing education classes. “I require 24 hours of continuing Sponsored by education,” she said. “A lot of people in the industry don’t do it.” Volume 1 • Issue 11
As a result of continuing education, Evans can offer clientele biliagé, as well as foil highlights. “It’s a painting on technique you see on a lot of celebrities,” she said. Salon Evans carries a variety of professional hair care products, such as Lockhart, Sam Brocato, Pureology, BennieFactor and Paul Mitchell. “I usually recommend BennieFactor, for their shampoos, and Brocato styling products,” Evans said. “Bennie Pollard, who created BennieFactor products, visited our salon and we’ve had cutting classes with him.” Evans, a Lake Charles native, spent a couple of years in Baton Rouge, where she first met and worked with Sam Brocato. Johnny LaFleur, one of her stylists, worked at the same salon. Both were invited to Brocato’s salon in New York, where they did hair and make-up for Howard Stern’s wife. On August 31, Evans and her stylists will travel to Baton Rouge to attend a cutting class with Sam Brocato as part of their continuing education. “Lately, the trend is short hair, but I disagree,” she said. “If you look in the magazines, you still see lots of long hair with curls – like Jessica Simpson’s hair.” Evans has mastered the long-layered haircut and style. In fact, she makes styling look easy. “If you get home and can’t fix your hair, we’ll invite you back for a brief styling class,” she said. “I’m not a product pusher, but it’s important to use the products recommended to get the results we do in the salon.” Continued on Page 30 AUGUST 27, 2009
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Prices start at $26 for a man’s haircut; women’s haircuts range from $30 to $47, depending on the stylist’s experience. “I have a good group of loyal styl-
ists – they’ve been with me since I opened,” Evans said. Her employees include five stylists, a manager and three assistants. “They are all good-hearted, nice, genuine people,” she said.
Jill Hebert, owner of Glow Salon and Wellness Spa
GLOW SALON AND WELLNESS SPA You can treat yourself to spa treatments at Glow Salon & Wellness Spa. Owner Jill Hebert opened the business in July at 109 W. Lagrange Street, in partnership with Salon Evans, which is in the same building. She said they thought it was a great idea to locate a salon and spa
under the same roof. “It’s convenient for clients,” she said. “If you want to have spa treatments, and then get your hair done, you don’t have to leave the building.” Sponsored by She named the new business Glow Salon & Wellness Spa because, she
said, “We want our clients to feel fully rejuvenated – they should leave glowing and refreshed.” The salon offers a full menu of services, including manicures, pedicures, acrylic and gel nails, airbrush tanning, massages and facials. Hebert, 38, has been a manicurist and nail technician/premium acrylic specialist for 16 years. “You don’t have to go to a factory setting to get a set of premium acrylic nails,” she said. “We have well-ventilated nail rooms. It doesn’t smell like a nail salon.” A basic manicure is $25; a full set of acrylic nails is $50. Hebert said to call ahead for an appointment. “We don’t rush to get you in and out the door,” she said. “This is a place where people can come and get away from their everyday stress and be pampered. It’s their time. That’s what it’s all about.” Hebert is excited about a new line of skincare products at Glow Salon & Wellness Spa called CosMedix. She said the line is all natural and cruelty-free. “I was looking for a line of products that was resultsoriented,” she said. “I looked at a lot of skin care lines and this one had everything I was looking
for – it’s my favorite. I’ve tried it and it’s amazing.” She said the skin care line is reasonably priced and also includes vitamins for healthy skin. Hebert said healthy skin starts from within. “I’ve seen some awesome results with CosMedix – it gives the skin a natural, healthy glow,” she said. They also carry Youngblood mineral make up and Fake Bake self tanning products. “Mineral make up is better for the skin,” Hebert said. “We have Youngblood mineral make up; we absolutely love it. It feels silky on the skin – not drying – we all wear it.” You know how some sunless tanning products have an unpleasant odor? Fake Bake products do not, according to Hebert. “It won’t turn your skin orange and it doesn’t smell,” she said. “To me, it lasts longer than most sunless tanning products. It doesn’t come off spotty; it just fades.” Hebert explained the concept behind Glow Salon & Wellness Spa. “People use spa services to help them relieve stress – it’s not just about trying to look good,” she said, adding stress can create health problems. “Doing something good for you is important for wellness.” TJN
HOW TO CONTACT THESE LOCAL BUSINESSES NAME: Social Denim LOCATION: 706 Ryan St. HOURS: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; noon-5 p.m., Sat. CONTACT: (337) 433-3670 NAME: Charleston Gallery & Antiques LOCATION: 900 Ryan St., Suite 101 HOURS: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Sat.; special events; by appointment. CONTACT: (337) 421-1700; CharlestonGallery@att.net. NAME: Precision IT LOCATION: Meets clients on site HOURS: By appointment CONTACT: (337) 802-3799; pwolfe@gmail.com; www.precisionit.info. NAME: Salon Evans LOCATION: 109 W. Lagrange St. HOURS: 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Tues.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Wed.; 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Thurs.; 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri.; 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat. CONTACT: (337) 477-6868; salonevens@yahoo.com NAME: Glow Salon & Wellness Spa LOCATION: 109 W. Lagrange St. HOURS: 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Tues.-Fri.; 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Sat. CONTACT: (337) 477-2888 TJN PAGE 30
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Volume 1 • Issue 11
r Shoumake n o d n a r B By
By the time you read this, the McNeese State Cowboys football team will have wrapped up two intra-squad scrimmages in preparation for the upcoming season. You will have heard great things about the Cowboys’ offense, no doubt. About how good Derrick Fourroux will be this season.
Volume 1 • Issue 11
As of this writing, starting linebackers Deron Minor and Geremy Pilate are dinged up, and reserve Matt Kreamer missed the spring game with an MCL injury. Cornerback Jarron Jackson is battling a balky hamstring. Minor, who has played well in both the spring game and the first scrimmage, is very close to being back on the field, which is good news for the Cowboys. But the season can’t rest on Minor’s shoulders alone. Or on Terrance Freeman’s or Darrell Jenkins’. The younger guys who are getting playing time now are going to need to show they can step in and provide the same high level of play as the more experienced guys.
Toddrick Pendland Photos courtesy of MSU
Cowboys Saddle Up for the Season
About how no one can stop Toddrick Pendland and, even if they did, there are four running backs almost as good to take up the slack. And all those things are true. McNeese’s offense is shaping up to be one of the Southland Conference’s, if not the nation’s, best units. But what will truly make McNeese a powerhouse this season will be how well its young, inexperienced defense does against a pretty imposing schedule. The Cowboys return nine starters total and just three on the defensive side. And now, in the run up to the season-opener, injuries are starting to pick at McNeese’s defense.
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Terrance Freeman
Derrick Fourroux
And, in the recent scrimmage, that’s starting to become the case. Young guys Kegan Myers and Nick Toti each caused fumbles from the linebacker position. Safety Devin Holland, a transfer from Tulane, made some big plays. Judging by the first scrimmage, I think McNeese’s young guys on defense are just getting started making the big plays. Come Sept. 5, the Cowboys will need those plays to take the some of the pressure off of the offense as they look to return to the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs. Schedule Gazing At a glance, I like the schedule McNeese has put together for this season. The schedule is much like ones in the past. There are, of course, the always-tough Southland Conference games with the one or two “guarantee” games against smaller division foes as well as a road game against a Football Bowl Subdivision opponent. But this season, McNeese has done a solid job of making sure that its four non-conference games are going to be not only competitive on the field but also enjoyable to watch for the fans. The Cowboys open up the season on Sept. 5 with Henderson State, a Division II team out of Arkadelphia, Ark. This, like last season’s game with Delta State, is one of those games in which the Cowboys are going to get a return on their investment. The Reddies are enjoying a little bit of a resurgence, with two winning seaPAGE 32
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sons in the past three years. They have also transitioned from an option-style offense to a high-powered passing attack under Northwestern State transfer and Lafayette native, Roch Charpentier. What better way to see how far along your young secondary is than to test them against a gunslinging offense in the season opener. Another reason I like this “guarantee” game is the same reason I liked the Delta State matchup. It has a regional flair (both HSU and Delta play in the Gulf South Conference) that allows the McNeese brand to reach out into some areas where the Cowboys may not be familiar. You’re going to see more visiting fans attending these types of games over an opponent like, for instance, Southern Virginia. Then there’s Appalachian State on Sept. 12. The Mountaineers are two years removed from both the Upset Win of the Century (34-32 over Michigan at “The Big House”) and their last national championship. App State has won at least 10 games in each of the last four seasons and still features dynamic quarterback Armanti Edwards. This is a pride game for McNeese. A win over App State on the road means that the Cowboys can still consider themselves a factor on the national scene, and gives them a huge boost going into the Tulane game two weeks later. Before they can get to the Green Wave, the Cowboys host Savannah
State on Sept. 19. This isn’t exactly a guarantee game as the Tigers play in the Football Championship Subdivision alongside McNeese, but SSU is an independent team (a team without a conference) and has seen its share of struggles over the past decade. But, again, I think this could be a good thing for McNeese. Why? Because SSU is not Southern Virginia and certainly not West Virginia Tech. Remember three years ago when WV Tech came to town? McNeese won 76-0 in a game that the Cowboys could have scored 176 if they wanted. How about last season, when SVU could have brought its 63-7 mugging at the hands of McNeese to the Special Victims Unit. Calling Mariska Hargitay. The common thread between Southern Virginia and WV Tech is that they are both NAIA schools. Typically, this means they are smaller than even NCAA Division III schools with no way to compete, either in money and resources or on the football field, with schools of McNeese’s caliber. So why schedule them? I’m not sure, besides them taking up a space on the schedule and giving the younger guys a lot more game experience. A game like that doesn’t do a whole lot for McNeese, which makes the Savannah State game look a lot better in the long run.
All this leads up to the Tulane game on Sept. 26 at the Superdome. The appeal here is nearly limitless. A win over the Green Wave, which is more than possible, is huge for the Cowboys. The least of all outcomes from a win over Tulane is that the Cowboys probably move into the Top 10 in the Sports Network polls. A more important outcome could come at recruiting time. In the last few years, Tulane has spent considerable effort and resources in recruiting players in Southwest Louisiana. Currently, there are just two local players on the Green Wave roster—Zach Morgan from Sam Houston High and Ross Thevenot from St. Louis Catholic—but Tulane has had players from Barbe and Iowa on the roster the past two seasons. If McNeese beats Tulane, maybe the Cowboys get an edge on the Green Wave in the minds of area collegebound football players. Brandon Shoumaker is a graduate of McNeese State University and has covered sports for more than seven years for various publications. Coaches or parents with story tips may contact Brandon at bshoumaker@yahoo.com or send him a message on Twitter (@bshoumaker).
TJN
Brandon Shoumaker Volume 1 • Issue 11
Killin’ Time Crossword
SAVE THE DATE! Saturday Oct. 17, 2009 at the Lake Charles Civic Center
The 6th Annual Ethel Precht
HOPE BREAST CANCER 3K Walk/Fun Run www.ethelbreastcancerwalk.org Sponsored in part by
Crossword puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.com (www.bestcrosswords.com). Used with permission. Volume 1 • Issue 11
AUGUST 27, 2009
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By Mary Louise Ruehr
Celebrating Woodstock This month marks 40 years since the Woodstock Music Festival took place in upstate New York. For those who were there, or even for those who think we’re talking about Snoopy’s bird, several books have just been published to celebrate the wonder of Woodstock. That includes the music, yes; but also youth, freedom, hope, optimism, magical thinking, and a longing for peace — peace in the world and peace in one’s soul. Taking Woodstock: A True Story of a Riot, a Concert, and a Life is a
memoir written by Elliot Tiber with Tom Monte. Tiber spent his boyhood in Brooklyn, the son of Russian Jewish immigrants. The family was dysfunctional, and his mother was downright abusive. Her actions had me saying “Oh, no!” aloud. He writes: “We ‘loved’ chocolate and we ‘loved’ our television set. But we never said that we loved each other, and certainly no one in our family was treated with any real love.” In 1955, his parents bought a motel in White Lake, N.Y., but they
ran it very badly, so they persuaded him to manage it. The motel was in bad shape: “Many of the doors didn’t have doorknobs, and fewer still had keys. The mattresses were hard and lumpy; the linoleum, broken and blackened.” They were losing money and the bank was closing in. Meanwhile, Tiber had been organizing a small music and arts festival every year to bring tourists into the town. When event producer Michael Lang’s deal fell through for a music festival in another town, Tiber contacted him, and, using his parents’ motel as a base of operations and with a staging area set up on the land of his friend, dairy farmer Max Yasgur, the Woodstock Music and Arts Festival we all know was born. Tiber describes all the preparation — “A tent city was taking shape, and a sea of people and colors was filling up the 80 acres that Max had set aside for the event” — as well as the chaotic days of the festival itself. He describes PAGE 34
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the festival-goers: “They were long-haired, denim-clad, loose-hipped, barefooted, bandannaed, and free. Many had colored their hair in shades of orange, pink, red, green, purple, and blue. A lot of them wore beads, peace symbols, and various other ornaments in their hair and around their necks, wrists, and ankles. Some had unkempt beards, very few of them showered with any regularity, and fewer still cared much for the world’s approval. Everyone sang, it seemed, and everyone laughed. I had never heard so much laughter in all of my life.” The event ended up attracting “about 500,000 people there, plus up to a million more stuck in traffic,” which was backed up for about 90 miles. It became Woodstock Nation: “Woodstock was a life force unto itself, with its own code, and powerful beyond our wildest dreams.” It’s a fun read. I saw Woodstock from a completely different perspective. But it’s a very intimate memoir, and his discussion of his budding sexuality and his later experiences as a gay man were a bit disturbing, particularly because some of them were dangerous. It was a time, after all, of persecution of gays by bullies, bigots and police. The happenings at Woodstock had a very personal message for him: “The values of Woodstock — to insist on the freedom to be oneself and to give and receive love — had transformed me, and there was no going back.” This new paperback edition is a tie-in with the movie premiering this month by Academy Award winning director Ang Lee. The book is a fine, well-written and even funny memoir and, like the movie, should be rated R. Volume 1 • Issue 11
By the Time We Got to Woodstock: The Great Rock ’n’ Roll Revolution of 1969 by Bruce Pollock is a book-length cultural essay by a music historian who puts Woodstock in its place among the events of 1968 to 1970, from the election of Richard Nixon as president to the May 4, 1970 killings at Kent State University. Says the author, “After the crushing defeats and confusions of 1968, 1969 would be a year of radical and profound personal risks, changes, and choices in the way music was perceived, written about, experienced, exploited, played, and disseminated.” He discusses the interaction of music, personalities and politics; the war, the draft, the sexual revolution; the end of the Beatles, the death of rock icons, the birth of FM radio; protest songs, the merging and blending of folk, rock, and country, the birth of heavy metal; from flower children to Hell’s Angels, from “Age of Aquarius” to “Four Dead in Ohio.” His writing can be a bit hectic, but his information is fascinating. He adds insightful quotes from artists, journalists and fans about the music and the times. For example, Richie Havens talks about performing at Woodstock: “The sound was the best I ever played under, and I heard my voice go right out over the hillside to New York City. It was the most amazing thing. It was the perfect marriage of sound and air and environment.” The paperback includes two dozen photos, a timeline, index and bibliography. Here are a few of the other commemorative books now available: The Road to Woodstock comes from Michael Lang, the festival’s creator and producer, who looks back at the phenomenon from its conception to culmination. The Woodstock Story Book by Linanne G. Sackett has 240 full-color photographs by Barry Z. Levine. Events are arranged chronologically to bring
back the sights of the entire festival. Woodstock: Three Days That Rocked the World edited by Mike Evans and Paul Kingsbury also gives a chronological account of the festival, adding photos, interviews and quotes from participants. Woodstock Revisited: 50 Far Out, Groovy, Peace-Loving, FlashbackInducing Stories from Those Who Were There by Susan Reynolds features stories by and about those in the audience. Woodstock: Peace, Music & Memories by Brad Littleproud and Joanne Hague offers 350 photos and has interviews with performers and
Copyright (c) 2009 Mary Louise Ruehr.
people in the crowd. The authors are the proprietors of the Woodstock Preservation Society. Back to the Garden: The Story of Woodstock is by disc jockey and music historian Pete Fornatale, who not only gives the perspectives of the performers, but also looks into the background of the Woodstock project itself. With photos. Only 1,000 copies will be available of the two-volume boxed set of Woodstock Experience from Genesis Publications, each one signed by Michael Lang and singer-songwriter Arlo Guthrie. The current price in the U.K. is £395.
Save the Children’s Museum Fund
Mary Louise Ruehr is the Books Editor for the Record-Courier in Ravenna, Ohio. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Kent State University. Mary Louise is interested in all subjects and has many favorite authors, including Pearl S. Buck, James Michener, and P.G. Wodehouse, as well as mystery writers Sue Grafton and Janet Evanovich. She blogs at http://blogs.dixcdn.com/shine_a_light/ and you can write to her at Books@recordpub.com. TJN
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$4
Devastated by a recent fire, the Children’s Museum needs your help to reopen. The goal is $450,000. So far, $163,693.79 has been raised! The museum would like to thank all of you who have contributed, including the following: Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau Junior League of Lake Charles, Inc. Calcasieu Parish Police Jury City of Lake Charles City of Sulphur Sempra Energy Global Enterprises William & Katherine Blake Waste Management Tadlock First Federal Bank of Louisiana Cameron State Bank Charleston Gallery and Antiques Wal-mart (Nelson) Wal-Mart Store # 521 (English Bayou) Lake Area Model Railroaders you hank ays: T ok Crawford Orthodontics Inc. s a n I lo ua t, and u the Ig Atlantic Scaffolding Company Iggy r suppor all of yo g u o in Devall Towing & Boat Service y e r e fo os e! ard t Judge Guy E. Bradberry forw new hom y Kiwanis Club of Calcasieu in m
9 7 . 693
, 3 6 $1
M.N. Davidson Foundation Senator Willie L. Mount
Ad Sponsored by The Jambalaya News Volume 1 • Issue 11
AUGUST 27, 2009
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U A B A F N OLY
BACK TO COLLEGE - WORD SEARCH
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Volume 1 • Issue 11
der useum n e l l n E dren's M a D By e Chil the attention of a of th r o t c e younger, faster audience. r i D
The Pink Panther 2 (DVD Columbia Pictures, 2009) Steve Martin is no Peter Sellers. But then Peter Sellers was no Steve Martin. (Is this a good thing?) Remember Peter Sellers, as Inspector Clouseau, trying to book a ‘room’? No one could understand his ridiculous French accent. Think back to that bit, with Sellers milking it for all it was worth. Fast forward to 2009. A SWAT team is coming in the windows of the French Consulaire, and Commissioner Dreyfus (played extremely well by John Cleese, filling in for Herbert Lom) needs them to back off. The code word is ‘hamburger’. But only Clouseau can pronounce the word so ridiculously that the SWAT team leader can understand it. Hurry, Clouseau, they’re about to shoot the Commissioner! This gives you an idea of the difference a generation can make. The entire Panther 2 movie rushes along at a frantic pace, desperate not to lose
In the first five minutes of the film, an international thief steals the Magna Carta, the shroud of Turin, and the Japanese Imperial Sword. The thief calls himself “the Tornado.” A detective “dream team” is assembled, with Clouseau invited to be a member. No sooner does he step out of France than the Pink Panther, that giant diamond and symbol of French pride, is stolen by the thief. Most of the rest of the movie continues in the Panther tradition. There is very little coherence or plot, and a lot of fumbling by inspector Clouseau. The gags are clever and fast - paced, maybe a little too fast. Still, there are some very funny moments in Panther 2. Clouseau does an inspection of a suspect’s mansion, fumbling and clowning, all while being observed on closed circuit security cameras. On a date with his coworker and romantic interest, Nicole, he gets too close to the wine rack. As it tips over, he ends up catching every bottle that falls out of it, juggling them impossibly to waiters and customers around him. Not a single bottle is broken, until he returns to his table, causing a chain reaction that ends in burning down the restaurant.
A lot of money went into this movie, probably more than any Panther movie that Sellers ever starred in. Even the cast is impressive, especially for a comedy, with John Cleese Andy Garcia, Lily Tomlin, Alfred Molina, and Jean Reno all playing major roles, which they perform to perfection. Things finally get moving at the end of the film, with things coming together and Clouseau amazing everyone with his detective skills. There’s no doubt about the comedic skills of Steve Martin either, who plays the buffoon with the same energy that he put into his first starring role, The Jerk. Families take note: The Pink Panther 2 has one scene where Lily
Tomlin, an expert on politically correct speech, coaches Clouseau in the correct way to behave around woman. Tomlin’s suggestive language is probably more direct than most parents would be comfortable with, especially for younger children. Which is a shame, because the rest of the movie is fairly clean. If you like Steve Martin, you probably will like his over-the-top Inspector Clouseau. Some of the funniest scenes reminded me of Leslie Nielsen in The Naked Gun. However, my favorite parts usually involved the supporting actors, who added an international flair to the film. All in all, it could have been a lot worse. But it could have been better.
TJN
1020 Bel Fire Tower Rd, Reeves LA 4 bedrooms, 3 full and 3 half baths, 4347 living, 5200 total sq ft, 7 yrs old 2 car garage, 3 acres, Large workshop Stocked pond, 7 walk-in closets Fire place in master bedroom & living room High speed internet connection available
$385,000
Volume 1 • Issue 11
AUGUST 27, 2009
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JAMAICA ME CRAZY PARTY FOR A CURE GALA A highly anticipated event presented by the American Cancer Society, Jamaica Me Crazy Party for a Cure Gala opened this 11th annual gala to the sounds of the Bayou Katz. Dancing, auction items and other chance activities gave guests an opportunity to mix and mingle while contributing to the cause. O’Charley’s Restaurant provided a buffet of food items to please even the most discriminating palate. The proceeds from this party for a cure aids in the continuing research, education, advocacy and service of the American Cancer Society. “We save lives to create more birthdays…”
Dana Keel, George Reeves and Annette Thibodeaux
Jordan Ashworth, Dustie Kulago and Katie McCarty
Warren Privette and Lois Manena
Sheila and Keith Hardesty
Donna Shields, Louise Nichols and Kay Dimmitt
Brenda Beastly, Sherry Sandifer and Sheila Vincent
Toni and James Boudreaux
JAMAICA ME CRAZY PATRON PARTY Lake Charles native, Dr. Michael Bergeron, was recognized as the 2009 Honorary Chair at the Jamaica Me Crazy Patron Party recently held at the Gray Plantation Clubhouse. The Patron Party preceded the Jamaica Me Crazy Gala held on the following evening at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Entertainment was provided by Alvin Touchet and guest enjoyed a lavish buffet of heavy hors d’oeuvres. All proceeds from ticket sales and auction items help in the American Cancer Society’s continuing efforts. Dina Politz, Kelly Oursler, Jerry Oursler and Mark Politz PAGE 38
AUGUST 27, 2009
Libby and Charles Timpa Volume 1 • Issue 11
Darie Jordan and Verda Anthony
Sue and Hal McMillin
Kay and Barry Barnett
LEGIS-GATOR LUNCHEON The Gator was definitely in the house as the Chamber Southwest Louisiana opened the 2009 Legis-Gator Luncheon at L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort. Guests heard Washington updates from Congressmen Charles Boustany and Charlie Melancon; State of Louisiana updates from Agriculture Commissioner, Dr. Mike Strain, Insurance Commissioner James Donelon, Attorney General Buddy Caldwell and Public Service Commissioner Clyde Holloway; and reports from SWLA Delegation representatives Senator Willie Mount and Representative Jonathan Perry. Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu presented the keynote address. Getting up close and personal with our Louisiana delegation is always a welcome opportunity for Southwest Louisiana. Carrie Broussard and Patricia Prudhomme
Tova Oustalet, Clark Yelverton and Colleen Desselle
Lt. Mike Williams, Glen Bonin and Lloyd Lauw Volume 1 • Issue 11
Mike Fraser, Jack Silverman and Ben Bourgeois
Roland Moss and Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu
Courtney Corner and Jenny Stegall
Ron and Brent McGinley
John Cardone, Mike Huber and Steve Jordan AUGUST 27, 2009
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JAZZERCISE ON THE MOVE Jazzercise was on the move on a warm Saturday morning as Brenda Vallier lined everyone up for the Second Line march down Ryan Street to the new Jazzercise location on College Street. A host of classmates and friends in cars, trucks, decorated golf carts and trailers rolled out at about 8 a.m. to the sounds of the Second Line beat. At the new location, an abstract rendition of the all-inclusive dancer painted by artist, Matt Duplichan was unveiled. And then the joint started jumping as Jazzercise instructors led the group in a lively round of jazzercise. Congrats on the new digs! Kandy Morano, Karlie Lejeune, Carolyn Viator and Russie Rogers
Brenda Vallier, Michelle Sargent and Doris Oeder
Investments Financial Planning
Chuck Thibodeaux and Brian Vallier
Kathy Cranford, Mary Margaret David, Mary Ann Kohnke-Borel and Lisa Cormie
Fran Emily and Russie Rogers
Insurance Group Benefits Terry Backhaus, CFP 800 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601 337-437-9950 • 888-812-3695 terry.backhaus@questarcapital.com
Securities offered through Questar Capital Corporation. Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered through Questar Asset Management. Backhaus Financial Group, LLC is independent of Questar Capital Corporation.
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AUGUST 27, 2009
2350-09 2/6/2011
Volume 1 • Issue 11
PIECING IT TOGETHER Piecing It Together, a benefit dinner for the Autism Support Alliance, hosted by Nicholas Hunter, chef and owner of Harlequin Steaks & Seafood included a wine tasting, silent auction and entertainment by Brad Brinkley. The evening’s chefs, Nic Hunter, Julio Galan and Leo Reddoch, presented a first-class dinner that included the infamous Mrs. Hunter’s Bread Pudding as a dessert choice. Autism Support Alliance is a program of Family & Youth; for information on this and other programs go to www.fyca.org. TJN Kevin and Sydna Oakley, Melinda Hicks and Michael Fuhrmann
Dub and Susan Henning, Tracey and Joe Churchman
Danielle Caraway and Candis Carr
Lucien Marioneaux, Tiffany Williamson, Kirk and Amy Houser
Leigh and John DeRosier
The Jambalaya News’ Circus Ticket Winners!
Karyngton Thomas, Malachi Hawkins, Andrae Shillow, and Alex Shillow, Jr. Some very lucky Lake Area folks won tickets to the Greatest Show on Earth in Houston this summer. Congratulations to Veronica Brignac, Wilford Trahan, Tina Fruge and Brandy Guidry, who took their families to the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, courtesy of The Jambalaya News. Volume 1 • Issue 11
Veronica Brignac of Lake Charles brought her four grandchildren Karyngton Thomas, Malachi Hawkins, Andrae Shillow, and Alex Shillow, Jr.—who look like they’re having the time of their lives. Glad you all had so much fun! TJN
Every Monday night, feast on juicy mouth watering Prime Rib. Rubbed with our own mix of seasonings and roasted to perfection. Enjoy a 8, 12, or 16 oz. Prime Rib with aujus and horseradish cream sauces, a loaded baked potato and mixed vegetables. Come early, supplies are limited.
901 Ryan St., Lake Charles • 439-2054 • pujostreet.com AUGUST 27, 2009
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To list your event e-mail: lauren@thejambalayanews.com
The
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19 • Scotty Pousson & The Pointe aux Loups Playboys @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Neal Smith @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 p.m. • Alvin Touchet @ Blue Duck Cafe, 7:30 p.m. • Thingfish @ Caribbean Hut, 8 p.m. • Do Not Destroy @ Cajun’s Wharf, 8 p.m. THURSDAY, AUGUST 20 • Homer LeJeune @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Neal Smith @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 p.m. • Joel Martin & Da Classics @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • T-Broussard & The Zydeco Steppers @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, 8 p.m. • Rick Marcel & Radiance @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. • Eleven @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 10 p.m. FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 • Howard Noel & Cajun Boogie @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Jerry Jeff Walker @ L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 8:30 p.m. • Rick Marcel & Radiance @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Sugarhouse @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 9 p.m. • Blues Tonic @ Sam’s Cove, Westlake, 9 p.m.
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• Briant Lloyd Smith & Hot Gritz @ Blue Duck Cafe, 9 p.m. • Ridin High @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, 9 p.m. • Loser’s Reunion/The 94’s/Midnight Sons @ Toucan’s, 9:30 p.m. • Do Not Destroy/Matthew Moss @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m. • Red Letter Reverb/Targeting Aorta/ Godspeed the Jackle @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m. • G-Maze @ Festival City, 3 a.m. SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 • Brice Perrin @ Iowa Community Center, 9:30 a.m. • Briggs Brown & The Bayou Cajuns @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • The LakeSide Gamblers/Ganey Arsement @ VFW Post 2130, Lake Charles, 7:30 p.m. • Michael Dolan/Cold Sweat @ The Brick House, 8 p.m. • Black Feratu @ Hawg Wild, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Jerry Jeff Walker @ L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 8:30 p.m. • Bernie Alan @ One-Eyed Jack’s, Elton, 8:30 p.m. • Rick Marcel & Radiance @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Craig Mouton & Slingshot @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, 9 p.m. • The Von Dukes/Blues Tonic @ Toucan’s, 9:30 p.m. • Twangster’s Union @ Yesterday’s, 9:30 p.m. • We Were Wolves/Cheater Pipe/2nd Party Program @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 • T-Joe Romero @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Alvin Touchet @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26 • Al Roger & Louisiana Pride @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Mike Zito @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 8:30 p.m. • Aaron Myers & Friends @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m. THURSDAY, AUGUST 27 • Ganey Arsement & The Lakeside Ramblers @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Motherlode @ Molly’s Lamplighter, 7 p.m. • X-It 43 @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Lisa Marshall Tour @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 8 p.m. • Derryl Perry @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. • Kadillacs @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, 8 p.m. • The Murder and The Harlot/Survive the Musical @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • Flashback @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 10 p.m. FRIDAY, AUGUST 28 • Cajun August & Friends @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Crooks Carnival @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 8 p.m. • Derryl Perry @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Choke/Goatwhore/Brokenbytheburden @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • Southbound @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 9 p.m. • Kadillacs @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, 9 p.m. • Bayou Katz @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.
Volume 1 • Issue 11
• Briant Lloyd Smith & Hot Gritz @ Blue Duck Cafe, 9 p.m. • Colorcast Veteran/The Silent Planet/ The Last Place You Look @ Toucan’s, 9:30 p.m. • Steel Shot @ Yesterday’s, 10 p.m. SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 • Bad Habit @ Sam’s Cove, Westlake, 3 p.m. • Howard Noel & Cajun Boogie @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Glenn Fontenot @ Frey’s Restaurant, Jennings, 7 p.m. • George Jones @ Delta Events Center, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. • Derryl Perry @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Gator/True Spirit @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 9 p.m. • Mothership/The Von Dukes/The Spoiled Royals @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • Cold Sweat @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, 9 p.m. • Bayou Katz @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • Hamilton Loomis @ Toucan’s, 9:30 p.m. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 • Don Fontenot & Les Cajuns de la Prairie @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 • Hubert Maitre @ DI’s Cajun Food &
Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Happy Papi Band @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 p.m.
• The Devil & The Details/Oh Juliet @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 • Errol Jenkins & Louisiana Tradition @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Blues Tonic @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, 8 p.m. • Hipbootjoe/Todd O’Neill @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 9 p.m.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • Idle Minds @ Fred’s Lounge, Lake Charles, 6 p.m. • Mac Man Music @ Lake Charles Civic Center, 7 p.m. • Smokey Robinson @ Delta Event Center, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. • Louisiana Yard Dogs @ L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 10 p.m.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 • Hotel Cazin Band @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Glenn Fontenot @ Frey’s Restaurant, Jennings, 7 p.m. • ThingFish @ Caribbean Hut, 8 p.m. • Briant Lloyd Smith & Hot Gritz @ Blue Duck Cafe, 9 p.m. • Morgan Bouldin @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 9 p.m. • The Flamethrowers @ Toucan’s, 9:30 p.m. • Magnolia Sons/Broadcast Daylight/ Broadmore @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 • Mack Manuel & The Lake Charles Ramblers @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • The Von Dukes/Cheater Pipe @ The Wood ‘n Penny, 8 p.m. • Justin Pierce/Zydesoul @ Wayne & Layne’s, Sulphur, 9 p.m.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 • Al Roger & Louisiana Pride @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Whiskey South @ Cajun’s Wharf, 8 p.m. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 • T-Joe Romero @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Choke/Black Feratu @ The Wood ‘n Penny, 8 p.m. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 • Briggs Brown & The Bayou Cajuns @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Bernie Alan @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m.
TJN
MONDAY NIGHTS: Abita Beer Night
WEDNESDAY NIGHTS: Mondo Martini Night
THURSDAY NIGHTS: Be Well Night
Fri. Aug. 28 @ 9:00 SUSAN COWSILL BAND Sat. Aug. 29 @ 9:00 CROOKS CARNIVAL & RIVERLEFT Mon. Aug. 31 @ 9:00 WILL FERGUSON acoustic Wed. Sept. 2 @ 9:00 SCOTTY DOLAND Fri. Sept. 4 @ 9:00 SUGARFOOT (from Monroe, La.) Mon. Sept. 7 @ 9:00 WILL FERGUSON acoustic Wed. Sept. 9 @ 9:00 SCOTTY DOLAND Fri. Sept. 11 @ 9:00 OUTLAW NATION Sat. Sept. 12 @ 9:00 SUBROSA UNION (from Austin, Tx.)
Volume 1 • Issue 11
AUGUST 27, 2009
PAGE 43
Laurel and the Electric Circus:
The Recession Sessions, Michael Jackson, and Woodstock By Leslie Berman When I first heard them, in the company of some of her starry-eyed fans, Laurel Barineau’s band called themselves The Untouchables, and for my money, they were just that: A high-energy cover band fronted by the long-hair-tossing boldvoiced alto, who soared, swooped, and delivered slinky, sassy, emotionally charged songs that made even ludicrous lyrics seem arch, witty, and meaning filled. Not another cover band in town could touch them. I can’t even remember most of the long-gone clubs where I saw Laurel play in Lake Charles in the early years, where I followed her gigs assiduously whenever I wanted a guaranteed-to-please girls night out, but I do remember one particular night at Crystal’s, where Laurel was promoting her newly released first record, “Sweet Insanity.” The usual crowd of smoking disco dancers came to a halt and surged around the band’s setup on the dance floor, listening with rapt attention as Laurel unrolled the new CDs tracks. Having by then heard all the songs individually, usually sandwiched between covers of numbers made famous by power-voiced women rockers and R&B artists from Patti Labelle to Melissa Etheridge, I had thought they were fine for a freshman effort. That night, hearing them spool and tear out of Laurel, one after the other, I found my appreciation for her original music growing exponentially. Over time, the hurricanes came and The Untouchables scattered. In the wake of the storm surge, the old clubs closed, and like many others, I stopped going out for fun. But you can’t keep good women down. Eventually, spring came back into my soul and Laurel regrouped with The Edge, and returned to touring. A month ago, with some personnel changes and a new EP, “The Recession Sessions,” her group was reborn as Laurel and the Electric Circus. Which is where we pick up our heroine, now in the throes of touring the new record all over this region. As I’m writing this, Laurel is tuning up for a special in-store gig at The Gap in Prien Lake Mall, where she’ll be competing with 700+ bands across the country for a recording contract. I’m rooting for her, not only because she’s a client (full disclosure: Haven’t done any work for her for several years), but because I know she’s a trouper, and in it for the long haul. Her new EP, which you can get from Amazon, iTunes or emusic, includes a rocked-out version of a previously released acoustic tune, “Could You Love Me.” And if you missed her at The Gap, you can catch her on Sept. 6 at Sam’s Cove in Westlake, or you can join the
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Krewe of Illusions and get invited to their pool party on Sept. 7, or you can see her headline Lake Charles’ first Gay Pride event at the Civic Center on Sept. 19. Highly recommended, whenever, wherever. You go, girl! About Michael After promising myself that I would refrain from commenting on Michael Jackson, I find I just have to. See, I was just in airports in Houston and New York, and in all the magazine racks I found at least a half-dozen different Michael Jackson tribute covers, sporting different photos, many from the same recent session. In each of the photos Jackson looks weary but alert, posed in that confident dancer’s casual slouch that will forever make every other video dancer’s moves look forced and formal. And that made me realize how much I will miss him. Once, a long time ago, at a New York dance club, my snarky friend, the club’s booker, persuaded me and my rock critic husband to come over for a “surprise” appearance by Michael Jackson. This club had a very high, deep stage, and after an appropriate period of agonized anticipation, staring up at it through colored spots and fog machine effects, we could just pick out a man in a scarf, a glove, and a porkpie hat, dancing, as we had seen him do before, to “Billie Jean,” with turns, finger-to-toe points, and moonwalk. My exand I were convinced by the smoke and mirrors, but our friend, also a rock critic, refused to be taken in. “Apart from the fact that he’s too tall, too heavy, and that he’s here,” he said, sneering at the dancing man, “He’s just not smooth enough to be Michael Jackson.” And in hindsight, I realized he wasn’t. No one will ever dance that effortlessly, that engagingly, ever again, not really, and the imitators, even all of them in the “Thriller”-thons you can watch on youtube, where you know it’s not and never again will be him, as great as those sincerest flatteries might actually be, that will always leave me feeling just a little bit poorer for the untimely loss of the dancing master. Woodstock Revisited I didn’t go to Woodstock. Let me be clear about that. Unlike many of my contemporaries who didn’t go, I don’t even pretend, or fantasize that I did. I went to the warm-up concert at Tanglewood in the Berkshires, the Tuesday before, to see B.B. King and the Jefferson Airplane warm up for The Who, making their first U.S. appearance with the
rock opera, “Tommy.” I was in the ninth row in front of Pete Townshend when he broke his guitar and set it on fire. Of course, I was feeling no pain at the time, so what I tell you I remember about this event should definitely be taken with a healthy shaker of salt. Do you think I really remember the 60s? I should hope I don’t. Otherwise, how could I prove I was actually there? Anyway, I was deep into Joan Baez’s autobiography Daybreak (especially interested in her explanation of her fear of throwing up), out for the stolen weekend away from home with my first serious boyfriend, and both of us, 16 years old, were so adorable, that everyone treated us like we were mascots for the winning team, and watched our backs. Oh, yeah, the music was magical, too. The Woodstock years have faded from the hearts and minds of most of the attendees (now on Social Security!), let alone the outsiders peering in with either longing or disgust. But somehow, the beat goes on. Kids grow up assuming it’s important to be eco-friendly, infant bands learn riffs from Jimi Hendrix via rockstar and wii, and the Jefferson Airplane/Starship’s Grace Slick shows off her paintings, saying she’s finally too old to rock and roll (will anyone ever get the word out to Mick and Keith?). In Woodstock, New York, where the festival never took place, and where I lived for a number of years, the best sushi in town is at the Wok ‘n Roll, which shows dueling Woodstock films on its wall-mounted TVs all day. Pete Fornatele, an old NY deejay, and Michael Lang, one of the promoters of the original festival, have both come out with commemorative book reports, all the major papers’ music journalists have weighed in on “what it all meant,” and there have been related documentary films and radio retrospectives going day and night on PBS, MTV, VH-1 and other music-oriented channels. You’d think after 40 years I would be sick of this. I mean, I own a handful of Woodstock books already, filled with photos and anecdotes and eyewitness accounts, and I’ve seen at least parts of the movies, oh, maybe 300 times. But I am still looking forward to Ang Lee’s Taking Woodstock about the run up to the festival, which is soon to be out, I hope, in area theaters. Apparently, it takes forever (and a muddy tent city) to teach an old hippie the same old trick. TJN
Volume 1 • Issue 11
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Volume 1 • Issue 11
• Enables you to control who receives your message, when they receive it and how many people you reach. • Provides a tangible product in the consumer’s home or office. • Provides a way to target a very specific audience!
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MARK JOHN PHOTO EXHIBIT AT HENNING CENTER THROUGH SEPT. 10 Mark John, owner of Studio Creations, has been a professional photographer, as well as teacher, for the past 20 years. His photography is now on exhibit at the Henning Cultural Center. The exhibit includes both canvas and framed prints from his most recent trip to Greece and Turkey, along with works from China, France, Mark John Spain, Egypt, England and the United States. The Photography beautiful country of Italy will be highlighted in Mark & Camel one room. For more information about this exhibit, please call 527-0357. GUEYDAN DUCK FESTIVAL AUG. 27-30 The Gueydan Duck Festival will be held Aug. 27-30. It includes live music, a carnival, food booths, goose and duck calling competitions, duck carving and painting demonstrations, dog trials and skeet shooting, and an outdoor cookoff. Gates open at 6 p.m. on Thurs. The parade will roll down Main St. at 3 p.m. on Sat. Admission is free all weekend for school-age children and on Sunday for everyone. For a complete schedule, call (337) 5366456 or see www.duckfestival.org. LAKE AREA WINE TASTINGS Enjoy wine tastings every Thursday night at The Wine Store from 5-7 p.m. located at 4070 Nelson Rd, Ste. 100. For more info, call 477-7017. Wed, Sept. 2. Hunter’s Harlequin will be having a Dry Creek Vineyard Wine Dinner on Wed. Sept. 2. The cost $75 per person, all inclusive. Call 310-0077 for reservations. Dinner starts at 7. I’ve been to one and it’s a gastronomical delight! Thurs. Sept. 3 Wine Tasting and Food Savoring at the Harlequin from 6-8 p.m. The fee is $15 per person. Call 310-0077 for reservations.
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AUGUST 27, 2009
JAM
THIRD ANNUAL YOUNG AT HEART EXPO AUG. 27 The third annual Young at Heart Expo, free to the public and presented by KPLC, will be held on Aug. 27 in the Lake Charles Civic Center from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Expo, Living Happy and Healthy after 50, is a one-day event that focuses on the best in healthcare, financial and leisure information for those over 50. In addition to seminars, screenings and entertainment, 2,000 first come/first serve, free jambalaya lunches from Mr. Bill’s Seafood will be available. Beverages will be provided by K&K Water and Coca Cola. During lunch, there will be a fashion show with the latest fashions from TiCi’s, Stacy’s Armoire and Men’s Warehouse. There will also be the opportunity to adopt a pet, give blood and take a photo with KPLC news personalities. Door prizes will be given in every seminar. For more information about the expo or acquiring a booth, call Kathlene Deaville at (337) 437-7551 or download forms from KPLCTV.COM. THE ANATOMY OF A PAINTING: ART TALK AT HISTORIC CITY HALL AUG. 28 Albino Hinojosa, American realist, will speak on “The Anatomy of a Painting” at 6:30 p.m. on Fri., Aug. 28. The art talk is open to the public, seating will be limited, and refreshments will be served. Hinojosa’s talk compliments the current exhibition at Historic City Hall, “The New Reality, The Frontier of Realism in the 21st Century.” Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center at 1001 Ryan Street is open Mon. through Fri., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. For more information, please call 491-9147 or visit www.cityoflakecharles.com. Albino Hinojosa - Still Life with Sesanqua Camellia
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LAKE CHARLES AUTHOR TO AUTOGRAPH VIETNAM MEMOIR, AUG. 29 Local author Gene R. Dark will provide some insight on war with his new book, The Brutality of War: A Memoir Gene R. Dark of Vietnam. Dark, a member of one of the most decorated marine companies to be deployed in Vietnam, will sign copies of his book Sat. Aug. 29, from 10 a.m.–noon at Sam’s Club, 3310 Broad St, in Lake Charles. Call Leslie Robinson at (337) 477-2668 or visit www.generdark.com for more information. SESAME STREET LIVE AT THE CIVIC CENTER SEPT. 4-6 Bring the whole family to Sesame Street Live’s “When Elmo Grows Up.” Performances will be held at the Civic Center at 7 p.m. on Sept. 4, 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sept. 5, and 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 6. Tickets are $12 and $16, premium $20, Gold Circle $25. For more information, call the Civic Center at 491-1432, or go to the Web site at www.sesamestreetlive.com.
THE YAMAHA SHOP Motorcycles • Boats • Waverunners • ATVs
5433 Hwy. 14, Lake Charles, LA (337) 436-8449 • Fax: (337) 436-8496 Locally owned by Thelice Bell and Gus Bell
LOUISIANA SHRIMP & PETROLEUM MUSIC FESTIVAL SEPT. 4-7 Head on down to the Morgan City area for the annual Shrimp and Petroleum Music Festival. Enjoy live music, fabulous food, children’s entertainment, a horseshoe tournament, cultural and heritage expo, fireworks, a car show, carnival, arts and crafts and so much more! For more information, call (985) 385-0703 or go to www.shrimppetrofest.org. FUNDRAISER FOR USS ORLECK SEPT. 12 The USS Orleck, DD-886, a gearing class destroyer, served this country in both Korea and Viet Nam. She was built in Orange, Texas in 1945. After her service to the US Navy, the Orleck then served the Turkish Navy for many years. She has been returned home, and is now looking for a permanent berth in Lake Charles. There will be a fundraising dinner on Sept. 12 from 4 - 7 p.m. at the American Legion Post 1 on 1530 Ninth Street, Lake Charles. The cost is $20 per person. Make checks payable to USS Orleck Naval Museum and send to Ginger Beningo, P.O. Box 4470, Lake Charles, LA 70606-4470. Please RSVP by Sept. 9 to (337) 474-815. CHILDREN’S MUSEUM’S IMAGINATION CELEBRATION SEPT. 26 On Sat., Sept. 26, the Children’s Museum will hold its 7th Annual Imagination Celebration. The theme this year is “Save Iggy’s Home.” Enjoy fantastic music by the Al Becker Band featuring the Crawford Brothers and John Ieyoub. The event will offer some of the best food from area restaurants, a cash bar and a good time for all. And don’t forget the silent auction and live auctions that will offer unique, must-have items. Tickets are $50 and are available at the museum. Table sponsorships are still available. For more information, please call (337) 433-9420 or email allyson@child-museum.org. TJN
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Football season tickets are on sale now and can be purchased for only $102. Family plans, which include 4 season tickets, start at $204. Tickets for the McNeese vs. Tulane game to be played in New Orleans are also on sale at the ticket office. Be sure to buy your tickets from McNeese. By doing so you will not only save money but you will also be supporting McNeese Athletics.
Please contact Ryan Ivey 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.
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