VOL. 5, NO. 1 / APRIL 4, 2013
Photo: Romero & Romero Photography
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Volume 5 • Issue 1
GENERAL 715 Kirby St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 www.thejambalayanews.com PUBLISHER Phil de Albuquerque
contents COVER STORY 23 First National Bank of DeRidder
lauren@thejambalayanews.com
CONTRIBUTORS Nicole Shuff Arabie Rhonda Babin Leslie Berman George Cline Angie Kay Dilmore Jake Fusilier Braylin Jenkins Mike Louviere Mike McHugh Mary Louise Ruehr Brandon Shoumaker Karla Tullos
REGULARS 8 The Boiling Pot 9 Hospital Round-Up 10 The Dang Yankee 11 Tips from Tip 26 Sports Report
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FEATURES 5 Dining Out for Life 6 Leather Britches Smith 12 Remembering Red’s Supermarket 16 Banking and Finance 14 Meet our Writers! 22 Yom Hashoah
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SALES ASSOCIATES Michele Clack Faye Drake Allen Garber GRAPHICS ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Burn Rourk ART ASSISTANT Sarah Bercier CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Danley Romero BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kay Andrews Legal Disclaimer The views expressed by The Jambalaya News columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Jambalaya News, its editors or staff. The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by The Jambalaya News, LLC, 715 Kirby 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 2013 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.
April 4, 2013 • Volume 5 • Issue 1
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publisher@thejambalayanews.com
NEWS EXECUTIVE EDITOR Lauren de Albuquerque
On Cover: First National Bank of DeRidder: Justin Holt, John Fusilier and Mary Williams
ENTERTAINMENT 28 Red Hot Books 30 Lake City Beat! 31 A Taste of SWLA 32 Funbolaya 33 Family Night at the Movies 35 Society Spice 38 Jambalaya Jam 40 Local Jam 42 Eclectic Company 43 Soul Matters
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28 31 35 42 We accept credit cards!
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A Note From Lauren Invasion of the Moths A few weeks ago, I noticed lots of little moths fluttering around in the bedroom. The cats weren’t doing anything about them, which is annoying. You’d think they’d at least make an effort, considering how much it costs us to maintain their lifestyle. But no. The moths continued to flutter and the cats continued to ignore them. We soon figured out their source: the pantry right outside our bedroom door. I try to clean the pantry out once a year and go through all the expired stuff and dump it when Phil isn’t around, because he doesn’t let me throw anything out. He will eat anything, and scoffs at the mere suggestion of an expiration date. But even he admitted that the moths were not a good sign. I made this my weekend project and made sure that Phil was busy elsewhere so he wouldn’t interfere with the process—which meant running interference between me and the trash can.
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Obviously, I had to get rid of all of the affected food items first. I found lots of old rice and cereal and pasta (don’t blame me, I don’t eat carbs anymore, whereas Phil is a carboholic) that went straight into the trashcan. There was other weird stuff: loose jasmine tea from London, from a Boston friend that I’ve lost track of. PAM nostick spray from 2006—a leftover from our bed and breakfast days. Lots of fig preserves. At this point, Phil happened to come in, whereupon he complained that he’d gotten them special for me because he knows I love figs and look! Five years later and they haven’t even been opened! He tried to do something nice and it wasn’t appreciated! (Give me a break.) I somehow got him out of the kitchen after I promised I would try some figs, very soon, and got back to business. After I cleared the shelves, I had to figure out how to get rid of the moths permanently. So, I went online and discovered a natural remedy. First, you wash your shelves and walls with warm
soap and water. Next, you wash them down with white vinegar. After they dry, you stick a bay leaf on each shelf. The moths don’t like bay leaves, and I guess they don’t like vinegar, either. I had both, so it was worth a try. Unfortunately, even on a stepladder, it was difficult for me to clean the top shelves. So, I had to call in a reinforcement. The cats yawned and looked the other way, so I had to find Phil. At first, it went well. He was thrilled with the idea of eliminating the problem “naturally.” He climbed up on the stepladder and got to work. But soon, I noticed he was climbing down and going out the back door. And coming back. Fairly often. Then it dawned on me. He was setting the moths free. He was bringing them outside “to live another day.” I’m all for letting most of God’s creatures live another day, but I draw the line at mosquitoes, roaches and pantry moths. There are some things that need to be
exterminated. At once. “I’m just giving them a chance,” he said, when I protested. A chance for what? To infest someone else’s pantry? Thank God for Google. It was there that I discovered that these particular moths only live 1-2 weeks. So I was able to convince him that it wasn’t worth the effort for something that was nearing its expiration date anyway. It’s been a few weeks, and I have to say, that natural remedy works. My shelves are clean and sparkling and there are no more moths—at least, for now. But someday soon, Kroger’s or Big Lots will have a super sale on boxes of rice or pasta. Phil’s eyes will light up and the shelves will be loaded again. But many of the items will be promptly forgotten, until a flutter of little wings reminds us that once again, it’s time to clean the shelves.
– Lauren de Albuquerque TJN
Volume 5 • Issue 1
Dining Out for Life Mark Your Calendars for April 25 By Lauren de Albuquerque What’s better than dining out in a local restaurant with your friends and family? Knowing that a portion of the proceeds from your dinner is going to a good cause! The annual Southwest Louisiana AIDS Council’s “Dining Out for Life” benefit is coming up soon, and you won’t want to miss it. Started in 1991 by an ActionAIDS volunteer in Philadelphia, "Dining Out For Life” is an annual fundraising event involving the generous participation of volunteers, corporate sponsors and restaurants. The concept is simple. Enjoy a great meal with family and friends at any participating restaurant on April 25 and help out the Southwest Louisiana AIDS Council. A percentage of the restaurant’s gross sales from that evening benefit the programs and services of SLAC. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a disease characterized by progressive destruction of the body's immune system. It is widely accepted that AIDS results from infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and is currently considered incurable. The Southwest Louisiana AIDS Council is a non-profit, community-based organization that started off as an advocacy group to educate our community about AIDS. Through the years, the organization has grown to more than just advocacy work. Its current mission is to provide education to the people of Southwest Louisiana about AIDS and HIV prevention, as well as to offer assistance to those affected by the disease. “We are funded by the Ryan White Care Act for client services,” said Christina Duhon of SLAC. “We also receive funding from several private sources such as Elton John AIDS Foundation, MAC Cosmetics AIDS Foundation and Broadway Volume 5 • Issue 1
Cares Dancers Responding to AIDS.” SLAC provides a variety of HIV prevention programs, as well as various direct services for persons living with HIV and AIDS. Its staff of 22 served approximately 433 clients last year. In addition to client services, they also have a Teen Outreach Program®, funded through a grant from the State of Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals. They offer free and confidential HIV testing every Wednesday from 57 p.m., or you can call for an appointment at (337) 439-5861. The folks at SLAC are excited about the upcoming benefit. “We have sponsorships from Nissan of Lake Charles, CSE Federal Credit Union, Avita Drugs Pharmacy, First Federal Bank, Phillips 66, JJ’s Prescription Specialties and IBERIABank,” Duhon said. There will also be a raffle. “It’s $5 per entry and we have several awesome prizes,” she explained. “They include two round trip tickets on Southwest Airlines; four tickets to a Houston Astros game; LG Soundbar; a gift card package which includes several gift cards from stores and restaurants in Lake Charles; a necklace from MB RICH, a photography package from Alexander & Burris; a one-night stay and dinner at the Isle; and a spa package.” Duhon explained that they don’t have many avenues to get the word out about their organization, which is why Dining Out for Life is so important for them. “The event makes us a bit more mainstream,” Duhon said. Get a group together and Dine out to fight AIDS! For more information, go to www.diningoutforlife.com/swla or call (337) 4395145. SLCA is located at 1715 Common St Lake Charles, LA 70601. TJN
Participating Restaurants Donation 50% Jag’s Bistro (Lunch)
Vista Grill @ Delta Downs (Dinner)
Donation 33% Peaux Boy’s Deli (All Day)
Donation 25% Zeus Cafe’ - including alcohol--(All Day) 121 Artisan Bistro Lunch (till 4 p.m.) Cajun Cafe’ (Lunch) Casa Manana (All Day) Harlequin Steaks & Seafood (All Day) LeBeaucoup Buffet @ L’Auberge (Lunch) Famous Foods (2-7 p.m.) Nina P’s (All Day) Pujo Street Cafe’ – including alcohol (All Day Que Pasa (Lunch) Rotolo’s Pizzeria (All Day) Sabine Pass Crab Shack (All Day) Southern Spice (Breakfast) Steamboat Bills (Broad St. & I10) (Lunch) Stellar Beans Coffee House & Edibles (All Day) Sweet Chic Cupcakes (All Day)
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by Mike Louviere Of all the desperados from Louisiana’s wild past, there may be no one more unique than Charles “Leather Britches” Smith. Merryville resident David Williamson is probably as close to an authority on Smith as anyone else. “There are a lot of stories about him,” he said. “Which one do you want to hear?” In regards to Smith, the old adage, “When legend and truth collide, go with the legend--the legend is a better story” comes to mind. A man named Charles Smith appeared in the Merryville area around 1910 and began working in the local sawmills. An exceptionally good marksman with both the rifle and pistol, he had a violent temper when provoked. While working in the sawmills, he became a proponent of the new union, the Brotherhood of Timber Workers. Smith was involved in the Grabow Riot in 1912, when the striking Brotherhood and the strikebreakers clashed and gunfire erupted. Smith was later killed by lawmen for his part in the deaths of six men in the riot. Those, briefly, are the facts. The legends that accompany the facts are interesting, to say the least. About the time Smith appeared in Merryville, a man named Ben Myatt disappeared from Texas. Myatt had been tried, found guilty, and sentenced to hang for the torture and murder of his second wife. Myatt was also charged with shooting a man and leaving him to die. Aided by his family, he escaped from jail in Navarro County, Texas. There are those who swear that they have evidence that Smith and Myatt are the same man. However, Texas Sheriff William Rushing, who examined Smith’s body, said it was not that of Myatt. Rushing had once saved Myatt from a lynch mob, had known him for years and had been untiring in his efforts to capture him after his escape. PAGE 6
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There was also speculation that Smith had been a man named C.N. McCall, from Polk County, Texas who was wanted for killing his wife and attempting to murder his mother-in-law. But that never went past speculation. The Man Around Merryville, Smith was considered mean-spirited. He was always armed with two pistols and a rifle and would often come out of the woods into someone’s home and demand a meal. He often wore pants made from buckskin, thus the “Leather Britches” moniker. At the time the Brotherhood of Timber Workers was being formed, Smith would walk up to a group of men at the mills and demand they each pay the $25 dollars required to join the union. This was at a time when mill workers’ wages were $1.25 a week for a six-day week. The men always paid. Then, there’s the story about Smith shooting the head off a chicken and then demanding that it be cooked for his supper. “Leather Britches and one of his friends were sitting on the friend’s porch,” Williamson said. “The man looked out in the yard and said, ‘If we had that old hen, we could have supper.’ Leather Britches then took his rifle and shot the head off of the chicken. The friend’s wife cleaned and cooked the hen and they had their supper.” He might have been ornery, but he appeared to have a genuine concern for his friends and co-workers in the mills. He did not appear to be the “hired gun” he is accused of being, rather one who had “been there, done that” and wanted to see things improved. He wanted better wages and better working conditions. Those ideals clashed with the mill owners, who only cared about maximum production at the least cost. The Grabow Incident Things came to a head on July 7, 1912 when Arthur Emerson, president of the Brotherhood of Timber Workers, led about 100 strikers to the
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Galloway mill in Grabow, about seven miles from Merryville, to deliver his prounion speech. Some of the strikers were armed since they had heard that the company had hired gunmen. When Emerson stood up in a wagon, gunfire erupted from the strikebreakers; the strikers fired back. No one knows how many shots were fired or how long the gunfire lasted. Estimates have been from two to 10 minutes. When it was over, six men were dead and 40 wounded. Smith was one of the shooters, but no one knows if he actually killed or wounded anyone. He was seen pumping and firing his Winchester into the mill. As Smith and about 30 other men were leaving the scene, they met two Calcasieu Parish deputies (the area was still part of Calcasieu Parish at that time). They got the drop on the deputies and told them that if they threw down their guns they would not be harmed. They complied. Smith then left the scene and went into the woods, swearing that he would never be taken alive and threatening to shoot anyone who came after him. He managed to evade everyone tracking him until September 25. Smith was sleeping in a shack by the water tower where the locomotives took on water. He had been staying in that area and stopping logging trains to get his friends to bring him food. He felt reasonably safe there. According to Williamson, “A deputy named Charlan and some other deputies went to the pump house and asked the pumper if he had seen Smith in the area. The pumper said that he had seen him a few days before.”
his rifle; at that time three or four shots were fired and he ran and fell inside the pump house.” Williamson has another story: Smith was surprised when he went to the door of the pump house and saw the deputy. He reached for a rifle the pumper kept, and was then shot by the deputies. However it happened, Leather Britches Smith was dead. His body was placed on a flat car and brought by train back into
Merryville. As was the custom in those times for killed desperados, he was wired to a board to keep him upright so his body could be placed on display. It was later taken to the old jail and iced down overnight so the display could continue another day. His body was taken to the local cemetery by his friends and buried just outside the edge of the graveyard, since it was felt that he should be not laid to rest with the “good people.” One of his friends
later made a homemade concrete tombstone and placed it next to his own family’s burial plot inside the cemetery. In spite of his meanness, he did have friends, and they felt that Smith deserved to be remembered. He was buried with his head to the east, opposite the normal custom of burial facing east, head to the west. It was said that for his crimes, he should be buried so that he would never see another sunrise. TJN
The End In a statement, Charlan declared: “We waited in the area and called for him to halt. He looked to the right and then to the left and attempted to fire Volume 5 • Issue 1
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The
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Please submit press releases to lauren@thejambalayanews.com
FAMILY FOUNDATION HONORS PHILANTHROPISTS OF THE YEAR Family Foundation of Southwest Louisiana, the endowment arm of Family & Youth, honored Mike and Martha Holleman, the Mallard Cove Men’s Golf Association and John and Ginny Henning for giving their time, talent and treasure for the betterment of Southwest Louisiana during the Philanthropy Celebration and Awards Reception, presented by Entergy, at L’Auberge Casino Resort.
Bill LeBlanc, Mallard Cove MGA; Troy Higginbotham, Mallard Cove MGA; Pap Williams, Mallard Cove MGA; Derek Smith, Mallard Cove; Sheila Pounders, Entergy; John and Ginny Henning; Mike and Martha Holleman; and Julio Galan, president/CEO of Family Foundation JONES JOINS IMCAL Jerry W. Jones, Jr. has joined the Imperial Calcasieu Regional Planning and Development Commission serving as an economic development planner. His office is currently located on the 4th floor of Lake Charles City Hall. Jones is a graduate of Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, where he received a B.A. in Political Science. To contact Mr. Jones or any other staff members at IMCAL, call 433-1771.
Jerry W. Jones, Jr.
BRAME NAMED VP OF JEFF DAVIS BANK’S McNEESE BRANCH Jeff Davis Bank & Trust Co. has hired Gail Brame as a commercial lender and vice president of the McNeese branch in Lake Charles. Brame, a Lake Charles native, has 24 years of banking experience. She has completed courses through AIB International’s School of Banking program and previously worked as a commercial lender with IberiaBank. Jeff Davis Bank & Trust Co. offers full-service personal and business banking throughout southwest Louisiana. For more information, visit "http://www.jdbank.com" www.jdbank.com or call (800) Gail Brame 789-5159. LUCAS LEE LOGNION IS NEW MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL SOCIETY OF COLLEGIATE SCHOLARS Lucas Lee Lognion of Lake Charles has accepted membership in The National Society of Collegiate Scholars. Membership gives students access to a number of benefits including career and networking resources, scholarships, travel and service projects. NSCS is a member of the Association of College Honor PAGE 8
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Societies and is the nation's only interdisciplinary honors organization for first and second-year college students. Membership is by invitation only and is based on grade point average and class standing. For more information, visit "http://www.nscs.org" www.nscs.org.
SOUTHWEST BEVERAGE DONATES TO BANNERS The McNeese State University Banners Cultural Series is annually supported by donations from area corporate sponsors. Southwest Beverage Ben Marriner, president of Southwest Beverage Co. Inc., presented the donation to Patricia Prudhomme, Co., Inc. has donated director of the Banners Cultural Series. $10,000 to support Banners. LOCAL FINANCIAL REPRESENTATIVES RECEIVE INDUSTRY HONORS Financial advisors Kevin Cooley, Shane Liggio, David Girola and Marty Derouen with the Lake Charles office of Northwestern Mutual of Louisiana have qualified for membership in the Million Dollar Round Table, an international, independent association of nearly 19,000 leading life insurance producers. Financial advisor Kevin Cooley has been associated with Northwestern Mutual since February 1990. Shane Liggio is a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Public Accountant. He has been associated with Northwestern Mutual since March of 1998. Financial advisor David Girola became part of the Northwestern Mutual team in July of 2009. Marty Derouen started with Northwestern Mutual in May of 2011 and is a Financial Advisor. He was also named the 2012 Northwestern Mutual New Representative of the Year award. LC COCA COLA DONATES TO MCNEESE Lake Charles Coca-Cola Bottling Co. has donated $10,000 to McNeese State University for endowed student scholarships. The company has established six endowed Coca-Cola scholarships through the McNeese Foundation, bringing its total donations to $90,000.
Blaine Royer, Lake Charles CocaCola, Richard H. Reid, McNeese vice president, and Ken Francis, Lake Charles Coca-Cola. McNeese Photo
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MORGAN HEFLER SELECTED WESTLAKE HS SENIOR OF THE YEAR Senior Morgan Hefler has been selected Westlake High School’s 20122013 Student of the Year. Hefler has a 3.8 grade point average and has been accepted to Louisiana State University where he plans to study business or engineering. At Westlake High School he is active with the baseball team and is a member of the drum line. Additionally, he has participated in the BETA Club for three years and the Student Council for four years, where he currently serves as senior vice president. ROBINSON DENTAL GROUP WELCOMES DR. STEVEN PARK Tim Robinson, DDS, and his staff are pleased to welcome Dr. Steven Park, DDS, to Robinson Dental Group in Lake Charles. Dr. Park received his doctorate in dental surgery from Columbia University in 2005 and went on to earn a Prosthodontic certificate in 2008. After finishing dental school, he received extensive training under widely respected Dr. Frank Spear in restorative and esthetic denDr. Steven Park tistry with a concentration in implant placement. Dr. Park is dedicated to advance, postdoctoral study and will provide Robinson Dental Group patients with a gentle, caring, comprehensive approach to oral health. For more information about Robinson Dental Group visit www.robinsondentalgroup.net or call (337) 474-3636.
FIRST NATIONAL BANK DeRIDDER EARNS 5-STAR RATING First National Bank DeRidder was once again named as a 5-Star Superior Bank by BauerFinancial, the nation’s leading independent bank rating and research firm. A five star rating indicates a strong capital foundation with active loans and a low delinquency rate. This is the 97th consecutive quarter for First National Bank DeRidder to earn the five-star rating, putting it in the
category of Sustained Superiority Banks. According to BauerFinancial, only three percent of the nation’s banks achieve this distinction. First National Bank DeRidder opened in 1934 and has four locations in DeRidder, a home mortgage location in Lake Charles and a Moss Bluff location, which recently opened. For more information, visit "http://www.fnbderidder.com" www.fnbderidder.com. MCDONALD’S SWLA AND BILLY NAVARRE SUPPORT LC SOFTBALL LEAGUE McDonald’s of Southwest Louisiana and Billy Navarre Chevrolet Cadillac recently donated $14,000 to The Lake Charles Ryan Navarre of Billy Navarre Chevrolet Cadillac; Tammy Leblanc of Lake Charles Softball League; and Doug Gehrig, Softball League. owner and operator of McDonald’s of SWLA.
JODY BARRILLEAUX JOINS BOARD OF CCOA Jody Barrilleaux, community relations, Hixson Funeral Homes, has been appointed as a new board member to the Calcasieu Council on Aging (CCOA). TJN
Jody Barrilleaux and CCOA executive director Jacqueline Green
house from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., on Sat., April 6. Attendees can tour the clinic, meet the physicians and staff, enjoy complimentary refreshments and register to win door prizes. Free blood pressure checks and Body Mass Index (BMI) screenings will also be available. Regular clinic hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mon. – Fri. New patients are being accepted and walkins are welcome. For more information or to make an appointment, call (337) 905-2151 or go to www.lakeareaphysicians.com/grandlake.
CHRISTUS HOSTS FREE AAA SCREENING APRIL 6 CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital will host a free Abdominal Aortic Aneurism Screening on Sat., April 6, from 8 a.m. to noon on the second floor of the hospital at 524 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive. If you are a male over the age of 60 with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and a history of smoking, you are at risk. AAA is among the top 13 leading causes of all deaths in the U.S. and the third leading cause of sudden death in men. If an aneurysm can be discovered before it ruptures, death can be prevented. The screening is by appointment only and appointments are limited. To register, call (337) 491-7577. WCCH AUXILIARY DONATES $5,400 TO HOSPITAL’S FOUNDATION The West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH) Foundation recently received a donation in the amount of $5,400 from the WCCH Auxiliary. The donation, made possible by proceeds from sales in the Auxiliary’s Gift Shoppe, was made to assist the WCCH Foundation achieve its core mission of assisting the hospital in providing advanced, quality health care to the community. For more information, call (337) 5274144. Volunteers are required to serve at least 100 hours per year. LAKE AREA PHYSICIANS OPEN NEW CLINIC IN GRAND LAKE The physicians and staff of Lake Area Physicians are pleased to announce the grand opening of their new location - Grand Lake Medical Clinic (GLMC), located at 10071 Gulf Highway, next to Brown's Neighborhood Grocery and Subway. Area residents and their families are invited to the open Volume 5 • Issue 1
DR. JOHN NOBLE ELECTED PRESIDENT OF LOA BOARD Dr. John Noble was recently installed as president of the Louisiana Orthopaedic Association, a statewide, professional membership organization comprised of 350 board certified and/or board-eligible orthopaedic surgeons. Originally from Lake Charles, he received his medical degree from LSU Medical School in New Orleans, and completed his Orthopaedic Residency at LSU Medical Center. Dr. Noble completed a fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. He is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons and is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Dr. Noble has over 16 years of private practice expeDr. John Noble rience, the last 11 of which have been at Center for Orthopaedics, an affiliate of Imperial Health. FOUNDATION FOR FAIRPLAY DONATES TO LA GRANGE HS The Foundation for Fairplay (F3) recently donated $5,042.72 in athletic equipment to La Grange High School. The money went towards the purchase of two sets of catcher’s gear, 10 batting helmets and two coaches’ helmets for the baseball team. LaGrange’s softball team received a set of catcher’s gear and three batting helmets with facemasks. The donation also paid for the refurbishment of the wall padding in the high school gym. F3 was established by The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital in order to provide a more level playing field in the areas of preventable injury needs. The fund will assist schools in acquiring equipment and creating safe physical fitness surroundings. To learn more about F3 or to make a donation, call (337) 494-3226 or visit "http://www.lcmh.com/f3" www.lcmh.com/f3.
TJN
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Dang Yankee The
By Mike McHugh
Days Of Our Restless Hospital They say that as you grow older, you become more like your parents. I don’t know who “they” are. Somebody once told me it’s the Merchant Marines. I don’t know about that, but whoever said it is awfully wise. It didn’t take long for me to pick up my father’s habits, particularly since they involved drinking beer and watching televised sports. But my mother’s side—well, that’s taking a bit longer. A few things came easily, like screaming at the kids about how the living room is not a rugby field. At the other extreme, I
don’t think I’ll ever get around to grooving on Barry Manilow. Still, slowly but surely, I find myself doing more of the same things that my mother used to enjoy. One example is crossword puzzles. My mom would wear out a crossword dictionary every six months or so, mainly by whopping me across the side of the head with it whenever I’d do something like play Frisbee using my sister’s Monkees’ records. (“But, Mom,” I’d protest, “She can play my Frisbee on her record player if she wants.”) Recently, I crossed another line,
and a sobering one at that. I caught myself taking an interest in soap operas. Now, don’t get the wrong idea; this was not a premeditated action on my part. It just so happened that I was walking past the television one afternoon, minding my own business when there, on the screen, were these two attractive young ladies really having it out with each other. And like any selfrespecting adult male, I never pass up the opportunity to see a good catfight, and the hotter-looking the combatants, the better. The program, of course, was a soap opera. The altercation didn’t really impress me, as the people who make soap operas are not particularly good at staging fights. I mean; they’re nowhere near what you’d see in a decent Bruce Willis movie. I wanted to at least see some good, old-fashioned hair pulling, but these two gals looked like they were engaged in not more than a raucous game of Twister. Still, after watching a soap opera for only a few minutes, you can’t help but get drawn into THE STORY. The story is what these programs are really all about, and
they are quite complicated—so complicated, in fact, that I’m not even sure the writers themselves know what is going on at any given point in time. The producers must use the same writers that also draft federal regulations. There are usually about 17 different subplots occurring at the same time, all involving couples who are either getting into or breaking off relationships with each other, often doing both at the same time. This all makes for an intricate series of connections among the story’s many characters. With all of the divorces, remarriages, adoptions, and faked paternity tests, your typical soap opera family’s tree looks more like a map of the New York City transit system. And as nobody can really be sure who is related to whom and how, it takes six weeks for the story just to progress through Mother’s Day. A character in one soap was actually revealed in a sudden plot twist to be his own stepbrother. Soap opera characters never seem to age, either. None of them appear to be older than 40, not even the matriarchs who have supposedly been in the story since the 1970s. And there are never any ugly people in a soap opera. They all look like gods descended from Mount Olympus, or at least somewhere that does not have any fast food restaurants. The women all appear as if they spend 23 hours a day in the hair salon, the men as if they spend a similar amount of time doing ab crunches. The writers fully exploit this angle for the benefit of their predominantly female viewers. They make sure to include at least one scene in each episode where a male character removes his shirt. If the entire episode took place in a courtroom, they’d add a sequence where the district attorney would say to the witness, “Sir, could you please remove your shirt so that the jury can see the marks that were inflicted by the perpetrator?” And this would be for an embezzlement trial. I still like my soap opera, though; despite the fact it doesn’t even pretend to portray how things are in real life. To that end, it would be nice if the producers did a little something to make the stories more real, like maybe include an ugly character or two. A hunchback would make for an interesting twist. As long as he keeps his shirt on.
TJN
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Volume 5 • Issue 1
By George “Tip” Cline
NOTHING WRONG WITH PATRIOTISM I was brought up to respect our flag, the Pledge of Allegiance and our National Anthem, but there appears to have been a decline lately. Respect for our national heritage is an important part of our respect for our own identity. It gives us a perspective to our history and to the efforts our forefathers made to provide us with the way of life we enjoy today. The next time you hear the anthem or rise for the pledge, stand tall and proud and give your full attention so as to not only give the respect deserved, but to be an example to others. Sadly, it seems that many younger folks have not been shown how to respect their country, let alone respect others or even themselves. We need to do our own part to ensure that the principals we stand for endure. There is no shame in being an American patriot and to show it. PAY ATTENTION TO SUPERMARKET FLYERS As I wrote in a previous column about Market Basket, Albertsons now sends out their weekly flyer in the mail. These advertisements normally come on Tuesday with the bundle of ads that are delivered directly to your mailbox. I point this out for the reason that the sale prices are from Wednesday through the following Tuesday. Having the flyer on Tuesday gives the opportunity to take advantage of price differences during two sale periods. If an item is going on sale Wednesday, you can hold off. If an item is going off sale on Wednesday, there is still opportunity to cash in on the lower price. This is particularly beneficial for specialty items but often on items you normally stock up on. Volume 5 • Issue 1
BUY ONE, GET ONE--GET TAKEN? I often wonder about the effectiveness of the “buy one, get one” type of advertised promotions. They are utilized by many different types of businesses and there are many variations on this gimmick to get more of your money. Careful analysis of these deals will usually show that the price has been doubled, or nearly so, with the intention of making you believe you are getting two for the price normally paid for just one. A smart shopper should not be misled into buying just because it appears to be a better deal than normal. SUPERMARKET ROUNDUP Since so many of us are pet lovers, our shopping survey will look into some common items purchased for our furry friends. As we have made the practice of using supermarket locations for these surveys, we will stay with those stores, also realizing that there are various specialty stores for pet products. The prices shown here reflect the posted price on the shelf where the product was placed for sale. This data was collected on Wednesday, March 27,2013 at the following locations: Albertsons, Country Club Road; Market Basket, Lake Street; Kroger, McNeese Street and Walmart, Nelson Road. Kibbles ‘N Bits Dog Food, original, 16-pound bag: Albertsons, $14.99; Market Basket, $15.49; Kroger, $12.79; Walmart $11.98. Meow Mix Original Choice Dry Cat Food, 3.5-pound bag: Albertsons, $5.99; Market Basket, $6.29; Kroger, $4.64; Walmart, $4.24. Milk Bone Brand Small Biscuits, 24ounce box: Albertsons, $4.39; Market Basket, $4.27; Kroger, $3.99; Walmart, $2.88. Pup-Peroni Dog Snacks, Original Beef Flavor, 5.6-ounce package: Albertsons, $3.49; Market Basket, $3.97; Kroger, $3.59; Walmart, $2.98.
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By Rhonda Babin When Marion and Catherine Wannage opened Red’s Supermarket in October of 1958, it was with some stipulations. According to her, it had to be established somewhere away from the destruction of Hurricane Audrey. According to him, it had to be a business where he could still be surrounded by the family trade of fishing. Those stipulations produced a locally owned grocery and fish market that served the lake area for 35 years. Marion “Red” Wannage was born on March 3, 1929 into a family of fishermen living in Galveston, Texas. Catherine Joy “Cat” Fontenot was born on May 4, 1934 in Fenton, Louisiana. Both grew up in working class families surrounded by lots of brothers and sisters. He had six siblings and she had eight. Since his family moved to Cameron when he was nine years old, they both went to school and to work in Southwest Louisiana. Cat was working as a carhop at Hobnobs, a drivein on Broad Street in Lake Charles, when she met Red. “Mom said he drove up in his red truck with his red hair, and she fell in love with him right then,” her daughter, Susan Wannage, remembered. They courted and married, making their first home in Cameron. “Dad worked for his family’s fish market on Ryan Street as a salesman and a fisherman, and we also owned a dance hall in Cameron,” she said. When Hurricane Audrey hit Cameron Parish in 1957, it destroyed both their home and the dance hall. Knowing they would need to rebuild a home and have some type of business to support them, the idea for Red’s Supermarket was born. The couple found property on the corner of Gieffers and Lyons
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Streets in the area of Lake Charles known as Goosport. The front area of the structure would come to be the marketplace and the back section of the building would become the Wannage home. When Red’s Supermarket opened its doors for business, the customers were mainly from the neighborhood. Families came in to buy fresh seafood, cold cuts and meat, and staples like milk and bread. If you were hungry, and many in the neighborhood were, you would be asked how you liked your bologna cut and would either leave with a package of cold cuts or enjoy a sandwich that one of the Wannages made for you. “Our philosophy was to help those who were in need by doing whatever we could,” Wannage said. Anyone who was struggling could get a temporary job at Red’s, which is the reason many relatives and friends found themselves working at the store. Business was good and the store grew, allowing the family to move into a house located right next door. The customers continued to be a mix of ages from the neighborhood and eventually included seafood lovers from the surrounding areas. There was something for everyone. Kids loved the candy and comic book selection. The meat section included coon with an identifying paw left intact. Fresh fish and crawfish were in abundance. The Lenten season was the busiest time for the storeowners. “Everyone came out in droves on Good Friday for crawfish,” Wannage remembered. “It was our busiest day of the year!” The entire family worked at the store doing just about everything: counter duty, sorting soda bottles, selling watermelons from the back of a pick-up truck, and wrapping fish the “right” way. “The ‘right’ way meant that the fish would be wrapped in butcher paper first, then in newspaper,” Wannage explained. “We used a marker to write the price of the fish on the outside of the package.”
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They obtained a liquor license to sell beer, wine, and spirits. They always paid attention to shoppers’ needs and offered special customer service that included wrapping bottles of liquor as if they were fish. “Mom and Dad would do this from time to time so local pastors could enjoy a drink without having their congregations’ eyes seeing exactly what they purchased,” she laughed. As the selection of merchandise grew, so did the business. The family
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eventually moved from the side of the store into central Lake Charles. Although fire destroyed the store in the early 70’s, Red’s Supermarket came back stronger than ever with a new building and counters. That building is still standing today. Running a true Mom and Pop store is no small feat. Being dedicated storeowners and operators, this entrepreneurial couple spent most of their time at the store. With business hours of 7 a.m. until 10 or 11 p.m. seven days a week, it was difficult to take time off for even a small vacation. “We were literally raised in the store since Mom was needed there,” Wannage explained. Instead of sitting at the kitchen table for a cup of coffee, friends and relatives would stop by the market, visit awhile, and enjoy that coffee right in the store with customers milling around. The Wannages took a lot of pride in Red’s Supermarket and it showed. “Our shelves were never messy,” Wannage said. “All the canned goods were perfectly placed.” And if you were so bold as to steal an item, “Mrs. Red” would chase you
down the street and recover her goods. “Then, she would go knock on your parents’ door. You would have to admit what you did to your family. But there were no hard feelings.” A perpetrator could return to the store the next day and continue to be a customer. After years of dedicated work, the Wannages retired, closing the doors of Red’s Supermarket in 1993. The following year, Red was laid to rest at the age of 65. Catherine returned to retail work in a couple of local pharmacies, succumbing to cancer in 2002 at the age of 68. It has been 20 years since Red’s Supermarket was open. But you can still find community members who wish they could stop in to pick up a few pounds of crawfish, have a cup of coffee, and spend some time with the couple who ran the friendly and fun grocery store which, like so many good things, is now just a memory. TJN
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Meet our
! s r e t Wri
Congratulations to us! We’re celebrating our four-year anniversary at The Jambalaya News and we couldn’t be happier! First, we’d like to thank all of our wonderful readers and advertisers whose support has encouraged us to continue to grow and prosper. But the secret to our success is our wonderful writers, who have made our publication what it is today! Nicole Shuff Arabie is a very special woman. A head injury changed her life, allowing her to become incredibly sensitive and aware of the unseen world. She now uses her gifts to guide others. In her “Soul Matters” column, Nicole helps all of us “Declutter Our Soul” and live in love. Feature writer and Lake Charles native Rhonda Babin has honed her interviewing skills throughout her career. After earning a Bachelors of Science degree in mass comNicole munications with a minor in speech, Rhonda she became an award-winning copywriter who has worked in marketing, corporate training/human resources, and for the newspaper industry. As an admissions representative for Delta School of Business & Technology, Rhonda gets to help people achieve their educational goals. She makes her home downtown, enjoys cooking, reading, the local farmers' markets, and relishes the enthusiasm newcomers to the South bring to the Lake Area. Entertainment columnist Leslie Berman, a child of the ‘50s, an adolescent of the ‘60s, a Kibbutznik, feminist and hippie of the ‘70s, music critic of the ‘80’s, law student and lawyer of the ‘90s, apparatchik of the aughts, and who knows what of Leslie atheHillary post-millennial teens, was born in a 1000-watt station in Far Rockaway, Queens, New York. She became the first girl Bas Mitvahed in her orthodox synagogue and was a sister alum of Bernie Madoff ’s and Richard Feynman’s high school. She attended eleven colleges before receiving a BA in Seniority. She has written for The Village Voice, Rolling Stone, the New York Times and similar rags until finding her true home in 2009 as a columnist for The Jambalaya News. She lawyers for entertainment at www.lesliebermanlawfirm.com, and hopes some day to get rich on the lottery. She lives on Long Island, New York with the POSSLQ, who retired from teaching linguistics for 40 years, but can’t resist semanticizing at the drop of a word. George “Tip” Cline has been with The Jam since its inception, dispensing tips and words of wisdom to his loyal fan base. Born in New Orleans, the only child of a pair of Lake Charles High School alums, he graduated from LSU with a degree in agriculture. He is married to the former “Tip” Gayle Ellen Smith, whom he has known since childhood.
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They are blessed with a large extended family of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Tip is Life Member of the Amateur Trapshooting Association, Endowment Life Member of the National Rifle Association, Life Member of the National Parks and Conservation Association, is a licensed private pilot, a member and past king of the Krewe Déjà Vu du Monde, a Master Mason, a member of the Scottish Rite, Life Member of the York Rite and a Habibi Shrine member. He is the Exchequer (treasurer) for the local branch of the Society for Creative Anachronism, a worldwide medieval re-creation organization. Always interested in finding good deals, it was suggested he put some of those “Tips” in writing. He is now a published columnist and is well rewarded with all of the kind comments from Jam readers. Freelance writer and editor Angie Kay Dilmore writes The Jam’s wonderful cover stories. She’s a regular contributor to Boys’ Life magazine and several other local publications. Originally from Pittsburgh, Angie has lived in Moss Bluff for Angie six years with her husband and twin sons, who will head off to college in the fall. While she calls Southwest Louisiana home, Angie still feels like the new kid on the block and enjoys learning about the food, music, arts, and culture of Louisiana. She loves to travel and explore the towns and countryside of the Bayou State -- by car, foot, bike, or kayak. Read about her experiences on her blog, “Adventures of a Yankee in Cajun Country,” at angiekaydilmore.blogspot.com. Dan Ellender’s movie reviews have been in The Jam since day one. Born in Lake Charles, he went to school at Sam Houston in Moss Bluff, and graduated from LSU and then the University of Georgia. He worked in pharmaceuticals manufacturing for 14 years and then came back to Lake Charles with his family in 1995. For the past 16 years, Dan has worked as the executive director of the Children’s Museum, where he takes pride in coordinating exhibits and Dan activities for kids and their families. Trained in the arts, most of his artwork lately has been in the service of graphic design for various projects and exhibits for the Children’s Museum. Dan also plays keyboard for a band on Sunday mornings at University United Methodist Church. Dan has been married for 35 years to Sally Ellender from Westlake. They have two sons, a lovely daughter-in law, and a beautiful granddaughter. Food writer Jacob Fusilier was born and raised in Lake Charles. “I really know and love the local people, traditions and food of the area,” he said. “I have been with The Jambalaya News since the beginning of the year and not only have I enjoyed everything I have been a part of so far, but I can’t wait for what’s to come. Check out my column “A Taste of SWLA” and follow me on twitter at Fuse@Jakefuse. Monica Hebert is an artist, art enthusiast and art columJake nist. “Appreciation, joy and exhilaration are my constant companions, fueling my desire to create,” she said. “Mostly, I paint landscapes, occasionally abstracts and always oil on canvas. And, once a month I write about art in SWLA for The Jambalaya News.” Before coming Monica home to Lake Charles over two years ago, Monica had the opportunity to hone her skills in marketing and writing while living and working in New York City for 15 years and Washington, DC for five years. “In those two cities, I learned much about arts marketing from mentors and colleagues who shaped my own art and my writing,” she said. “I've won an award for my work in newspaper advertising. I've worked with notables such as Hillary Clinton, the Duchess of York, Al Gore and Richard Nixon. In 1997, Billboard magazine included my work in a feature piece regarding audience development best practices for for classical music and art.” Great to have you on board, Monica! Braylin Jenkins, who writes our Lake City Beat column, is a young man with great aspirations for our area. “I have been blessed to receive many opportunities working in media,” he said. “I worked as a newscaster at KYKZ 96, a top local radio station, currently write for a colorful and distinguished paper known as The Jambalaya News and am an on-air reporter and sometimes anchor for FOX-29 News. I am a member of the Ad & Press Club, Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana and Fusion Five, a group of young business professionals. As a Braylin young person living in Southwest Louisiana, I feel honored to Volume 5 • Issue 1
have worked with, interviewed and even been in the same room with many of the legendary people who have made this area what it is today. I look forward to a promising future for our region with endless opportunities.” Feature writer Mike Louviere has lived in Southeast Texas and Southwest Louisiana for most of his life. “I worked in a Port Arthur oil refinery for 33 years, eight months, two days and 2 ½ hours,” he said. Mike announced rodeos in every region of Texas and eastern and central Louisiana for seven years. He still covers rodeo events in the region whenever the opportunity is available. “I was announcer for National Little Britches Rodeo Association National Final Rodeo in Colorado Springs, Colorado in Mike L. 2004,” he recalled. An amateur photographer, his rodeo photography has been published in Cowboy Sports News and Hoofbeat Express, with his bull riding shot on the September, 2011 cover of Hoofbeat. Mike wrote for two Orange County, Texas newspapers for seven years. Most of the articles were history-related. “I’ve always had a deep interest in American History, Civil War history, the part the American army played in World War I, and anything to do with World War II.” Mike said he’s becoming fascinated with the history of Calcasieu Parish and the SWLA region. “There’s a lot here to uncover!” Mike McHugh has written the hilarious “The Dang Yankee” column from the very beginning. Mike is a semi-retired chemical engineer who came to the Lake Area in 2003 from Baltimore, MD. He and his wife, Susan, reside in Moss Bluff and have been married for 28 years. Mike feels fortunate that Susan is such a good sport given her numerous mentions in his column. They are members of the Buccaneers of Lake Charles, Krewe Déjà vu du Monde and Krewe de la Famille, and the Pelican Coast Parrothead Club. Mike is also a member of the St. Theodore Council K of C, the National Society of Newspaper Columnists, and the local Bayou Writers Group. In addition to his TJN column, readers can find more of Mike’s work on his website, thedangyankee.com and on his Facebook page.
Mike M.
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Book reviewer Mary Louise Ruehr is the books editor at the Record-Courier in Northeast Ohio. She grew up surrounded by books since her uncle owned a second-hand bookstore in Akron. A graduate of Kent State University with a degree in creative writing, she has worked in radio as well as for magazine, newspaper and book publishers. Mary Louise has been reviewing and writing about books for 15 years. Mary-Louise Sportswriter Brandon Shoumaker has been with The Jam since its inception. He has covered sports on a variety of levels for over a decade. He is a graduate of McNeese State and Louisiana State University and is a fan of sports teams from both. Brandon is also a super-fan of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club in the English Premier League. His favorite sports are soccer, baseball, football, and bowling. The greatest high school players he ever saw play were Michael Ford (football), Greg Monroe (basketball), and Brandon Ashley Brignac (softball). Brandon is married to his lovely wife Erin and they recently welcomed a daughter to their family. Karla Tullos is our Spice Girl, photographing the fine citizens of the Lake Area at the many events SWLA has to offer. “Spicing around town for The Jambalaya News has been a blessing!” she said. “I’m passionate about photography and life! I’m out of bed before the crack of dawn ready to start my day off right with a little help from above, a cup of coffee and an hour of spin with Allie.” An incurable optimist, Karla finds joy in everything she does. “It’s one more day to hug and say I love you to those in my life, to encourage, smile and laugh with someone that just Karla may need a lift.” She loves celebrating holidays and special occasions with family and friends, cooking, shopping, traveling with hubby and summer fun. And as a wardrobe consultant and personal shopper, she takes pleasure in helping women to look good and feel better at any age, shape, size or budget. She look forward to expanding her business, soon. If you ever see her— SMILE! You just might be in the next issue of The Jam! TJN
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Financial Responsibility for a Younger Generation
When your kids were little, you heard, “Will you read me a story?” Then, in the blink of an eye, your kids are grown and asking for designer clothes and
Small Business Borrowing spring break trips. As a guardian, you want to instill in your kids the sense of financial responsibility, but how? Caretakers often teach their kids some sort of life lesson every day. By intentionally incorporating “teachable moments” in dayto-day activities, guardians can provide lessons in being financially smart when grocery shopping, or even discussing wants versus needs. With hands-on-experience youths can practice what their loved ones preach. One training technique would be to sit down with your child and go over spending for the week. Explain that they will have X amount and with their potential purchases, they will only have Y amount at the end of the week. Another hands-on-experience might include letting your child go grocery shopping with your credit card and seeing the actual amount spent at the end of the trip. These “teachable moments” if repeated, may instill what parents want to say every day to prepare them for their future. Talk with your kids about their future. Ask them questions to get a feel of what they know versus what they do not know about managing their finances. In short, reiterate that you are there to guide them in the right direction. Stop by a CSE FCU location in Lake Charles or Sulphur during Youth Week, April 22-26. This fun-filled week will be full of financial tips as well as games and prizes. You can also visit our youth-friendly microsite at www.csesmartfuture.org.
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While poor management is cited most frequently as the reason businesses fail, inadequate or poorly timed financing is next in line. If you own your own business, it’s almost inevitable that one day – if you haven’t already – you’ll be facing a decision about borrowing money. “Whether you're starting a business or experiencing growing pains, having sufficient, accessible capital is essential to business success, and borrowing money in one way or another is often the best way to make sure you have the money you need when you need it,” said Jeff Mancuso, Senior Vice President and Senior Lending Officer with Lakeside Bank. “Just about every small business I’ve ever worked with has had to borrow money at some point. Borrowing money for business is not a bad thing to do. In fact, used wisely, debt can be a valuable tool for growing and expanding your business. However, making the wrong choices about business financing, or poorly managing your business debt, can lead to serious problems in the future that can impact your business’s success.” So, how does a business owner determine the right financing decision he or she should make? Mancuso said the biggest mistake most small businesses make when it comes to debt is in their use of borrowed funds. “In other words, how you use and manage the money you borrow is just as important as whether or not you borrow money in the first place.” He explained that the key to using borrowed funds wisely is to have a well-thought-out business plan to guide these decisions. “One of the biggest mistakes we see in commercial lending is people coming in not knowing exactly how much money they need,” he said. “We can do a much better job of helping someone get the money they need to start a business, or to meet a new need of an existing business, if we are given a business plan. The phrase ‘business plan’ intimidates a lot of people, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to bring in 2-inch binder of data and written reports. However, being able to show potential lenders that you have a plan for your business, including projected expenses, income and profit, will not only prove your commitment to succeeding, but also help them structure your financing to meet your needs and budget.” There are many different financing options business owners can consider, but the most common are line of credit and term loans. “A line of credit is one of the most useful financing tools for small businesses,” Mancuso said. “It allows you to borrow funds as needed to meet routine operating expenses, short term working capital needs or to cover temporary cash shortfalls. Once approved, you can borrow up to your predetermined credit limit at any time, usually simply by writing a check. The cautionary note with a line of credit is to use it judiciously. Interest is charged on any funds you access, and these should be repaid as quickly as possible. Extending the
term on repayment will lead to additional interest expenses.” A term loan is one of the most common types of business financing. Much like a personal loan an individual gets to buy a home or a car, this is a loan of a specific amount of money, usually at a fixed interest rate and repayment terms. The term may be short or long-term, and is usually made for a specific purpose, such as to finance equipment, property, acquisitions or major business expansion. “An experienced commercial lender will work with the business owner to make sure the terms of this type of financing makes good business sense,” he said. “If you are using the loan to purchase new equipment that is expected to last five years, for example, you shouldn’t finance that purchase over seven years. There are more restrictions on term loans, with personal or business assets often needed to secure the loan, depending on the amount needed. This is where having a good business plan really helps.” The wide availability of credit cards makes them an increasingly common source of financing for small and start-up firms. Mancuso cautions that credit cards should be used only for short-term expenses, such as travel, entertainment, office supplies, and other miscellaneous expenses. “If you are using your corporate credit card for operating expenses and carrying a large balance from month-to-month, you need to take a closer look at the financial picture of your company,” he cautioned. “An experienced commercial lender can provide advice on how to secure more affordable financing.” People with dreams of owning their own business never make the attempt because they don’t think they will qualify for a loan. But Mancuso explained that there are a variety of state and federal programs available to help small businesses secure financing. For example, the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Louisiana Economic Development (LED) are both agencies that Mancuso says helps banks make affordable loans to businesses that might not qualify for traditional commercial financing. The process of securing financing is often confusing and frustrating for many small business owners, who are not always financially savvy about business credit processes, and who have probably never had to deal with these issues before. “That’s why it is important for business owners to go to a commercial lender they are comfortable with; someone they can trust,” he said. “It’s definitely an educational process and we work very hard at Lakeside Bank to make sure our commercial clients understand all their options, so they can make the best decisions for their business. We are invested in their success, and our goal is to make the entire process easier for them.” For more information on commercial loans, call Lakeside at 474-3766 or visit www.lakesidebanking.com.
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Volume 5 • Issue 1
Real Estate Loans:
Back to the Basics
For more than 60 years, First Federal Bank of LA has been meeting the borrowing needs of its customers. From consumer programs to bridge loans, they stand ready to guide you and develop a plan that is tailored to help you reach your goals. One of the most common loans available is real estate. Several different types of mortgages exist and the more a homebuyer knows about them beforehand, the better. There are two basic categories: conventional and government loans.
Conventional Mortgages Fixed rate and adjustable rate mortgages are the most common conventional type mortgages. In a fixed rate situation, the interest rate remains the same for the term of the mortgage. This is a real advantage for the borrower, as they will always know the exact amount of their mortgage payment. In addition to being predictable, housing costs remain unaffected by economic factors like interest rate changes and inflation. Adjustable rate mortgages (ARM) are at the opposite end of the spectrum. Interest rates and monthly payments typically start out low but the rate and payment can change causing either an increase or decrease. Typically, the interest rate is fixed for a short term to start then automatically adjusts to rate changes. The interest rate is based on a schedule, usually a financial index like the U.S. Treasury Securities index. Government Mortgage Programs Government mortgage programs include the Veteran’s Administration programs (VA loans), the Department
of Agriculture’s programs (Rural Housing loans) and the Federal Housing Administration (FHA loans). However, these agencies do not actually make the loans. They are only responsible for insuring the loans. By providing lenders with mortgage insurance or a guarantee on the mortgage, the lenders have the security they need to lend to first-time homebuyers who might not qualify for a conventional loan. The advantage of these types of mortgages is that they generally offer lower down payment requirements and more flexible debt to income ratios for the borrower. So, how does a homebuyer know which type of mortgage is right for them? It depends largely on their personal situation. They should consider all options and costs involved and ask themselves a few questions to determine what best suits them. Suggested questions include: 1. Do I expect my finances to change over the next few years (job or income, for example)? 2. Do I plan to live in this home for a long period of time? 3. Will my housing needs change over the next few years (because of children, for example)? 4. Am I comfortable with the idea of a changing mortgage payment amount? 5. Do I wish to be free of mortgage debt as my children approach college age or as I prepare for retirement? 6. How much of a monthly housing payment am I comfortable paying? Lenders can use the answers to these questions to help the borrower decide which loan best fits their needs. TJN
Six Simple Ways to Save
Over $2,000 a year
Building personal wealth is easier than you think. With just a few lifestyle adjustments, families can improve their financial security. Jeff Davis Bank’s financial experts offer six tips that can keep over $2,000 a year in your family’s pockets. 1. Setting up an automatic transfer from a checking to a savings account allows you to set aside money without even thinking about it. A weekly transfer of $20 equals $1,040 a year. By saving throughout the year, holiday shopping doesn’t have to be a financial drain. 2. Going to the movies monthly costs a family of four nearly $400 on tickets alone each year. Swap six movie trips for free movie rentals at your local library and save $200 throughout the year. 3. Energy-efficient light bulbs use nearly 80 percent less electricity. Replacing 10 incandescent
bulbs with compact fluorescents saves approximately $300 annually in utility bills. 4. Paying just five monthly bills online saves about $40 annually in postage fees and helps avoid costly penalties for late payments. 5. Avoid disposable household products like paper plates, plastic cutlery or bottled water. Depending on how much your family buys, you can save $200 to $500 a year. 6. Dining out twice a week, coffee on the go and trips to the vending machine seem inexpensive, but small purchases add up over time. Scaling back can save nearly $400 a year, depending on your habits. “Building wealth doesn’t mean drastic changes to your lifestyle,” says Boyd Boudreaux, Jeff Davis Bank president and CEO. “Small changes can add up to sizable savings over the year and provide your family with financial security.”TJN
Getting Your Affairs in Order
10 Steps for Creating a Smart End-of-Life Plan End–of-life planning sounds like something you do, well, towards the end of your life. But the reality is, no one knows what tomorrow will bring. If the worst were to happen, you wouldn’t want your family to be burdened with financial, legal and logistical problems. It’s easier than you think to create a smart plan. These 10 steps will help you get your affairs in order, and provide you with peace of mind knowing that your wishes are clear and that your loved ones will be taken of. 1. Have a will and update it periodically. 2. Have a healthcare directive (living will). 3. Have a power of attorney. 4. Have life insurance 5. Review beneficiary designations for your various financial accounts. 6. Specify where important financial account information is located. 7. Specify where important non-financial information and valuables are located. 8. Specify your final arrangements such as burial or cremation. 9. Have a list of professionals who assist you with legal and financial affairs. 10. Explain to heirs how your trust works. For more information, call Sam Hebert Financial Services, 790 Bayou Pines Drive, East Lake Charles (337) 436-7797.
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Keep Pets Pest-Free
Regular pest control for your home not only protects your family from the germs and general nastiness of bugs; it also protects your pets. Fewer bugs inside your home and yard means there’s less of a chance for them to cozy up to your cat or dog. Fleas and ticks are a nuisance for people as well as pets, especially in warm weather; but they can cause harm, too. Excessive bites lead to problems for the pet, including extreme scratching, red bumps and irritated skin under the fur of a dog or cat. Even worse, flea saliva can also cause anemia and transmit tapeworms. Ticks can cause a number of health problems including Lyme disease and other lesser known but serious diseases for pets. Even mosquitoes can be a problem for dogs, since they can transmit heartworm parasites. “While it’s more difficult to keep fleas and ticks completely out of your yard, having a regular pest control program, along with properly treating your pets, can discourage them from thriving inside your home,” said Robert Soileau, manager with J&J Exterminating. “And that will reduce the harm they cause to your pets.” Regular pest service provides a barrier between a home and the bugs, ants, rodents and spiders that attempt to gain access. “Many types of bugs leave pheromone trails, a sort of road map specific to each species that helps others follow it inside the home, often leading to a water or food source for that type of animal,” Soileau explained. “When you have regular pest service, the number of bugs, rodents, ants, etc. are greatly reduced, so these pheromone trails are also reduced, which makes it harder for new creatures to make their way into your home and onto your pet.” Keeping your home free from bugs and pests greatly reduces the chances that they’ll become a nuisance to your cat or dog. To further reduce the aggravation and health risks to both you and your pet, consider these tips: •Avoid walking dogs in tall grass, a common hideout for fleas. •Low-growing bushes are favorite spots for ticks, especially near the edges of woods; avoid those areas when out with your pet, or check your pet carefully after a hike. •Frequently wash pet bedding and toys, and vacuum carpets, rugs and furniture often. •Watch your pet for excessive scratching or nibbling, signs of a pest problem. “People don’t often think how regular pest control can help out their dogs or cats,” Soileau said. “But reducing access of bugs is good for both humans and pets.”
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Volume 5 • Issue 1
3518 Ryan St. Lake Charles (337) 477-1804
Owner Donna Mier has been an independent business woman for 31 years. Since 1982, Donna has been explaining how 85% of women wear the wrong size bra. The staff at Donna’s has many years of experience and are the most knowledgeable fitters in the area. They specialize in hard to fit sizes AN cups. Donna and her staff can solve most any bra fitting problems including straps that fall, backbands that ride up, and chaffing or rash under the breast. All of these are indications of an improper fit, style, or support. Donna’s not only fits women in supportive everyday bras but also fits nursing bras, mastectomy bras and bras for women who have had breast augmentation, breast reduction or
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lumpectomy. They also offer a large selection of backless, strapless, and specialty bras and garments for all of your ballgown needs. Donna’s Lingerie and Swimwear carries one of the largest selection and variety of swimwear ranging from Jr., Misses & Women sizes. Donna is a Board-Certified Fitter. Having recently received her accreditation approval, Donna files with Medicare and insurance. She is also pleased to offer the latest trends in post-mastectomy products as well as wigs, turbans, and hats for chemotherapy patients. Donna retains a large customer base by listening to her customers and working diligently to meet their needs. TJN
Fond Memories Photo Booth
“I actually got into the photo booth business because I was looking for something fun and exciting to do for my dad's birthday,” said Amy Byrne of Lake Charles, owner of Fond Memories Photo Booth. “I had attended weddings in New Orleans that had photo booths, and I thought it was an excellent way to make memories. You get goofy pictures with friends and family and put them on your refrigerator.” Byrne’s favorite thing about her business is how much the guests enjoy it. “They get very creative with the props and the scrapbook,” she said. “I'm always looking for funny hats and wigs that I can add to my props.” People love the scrapbook option. “The look on the newlyweds’ faces are priceless when they are presented with it,” Byrne said. “And, another favorite feature for the bride and groom is the video message.” Byrne loves it when the bride and groom tell her what a big hit the photo booth was and how glad they were to have it at their reception. “With one of our packages, we even put the pictures on the website for free downloads for all the guests,” she said. “We also have an option where you can email yourself the pictures while you’re in the photo booth. It is an easy favor, it's memorable, and it's one that your guests will not throw away.” Fond Memories Photo Booth is great for weddings, corporate events, dances, parties and school events. Just call Amy Byrne at (337) 370-2410 to achieve lasting memories today! TJN
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Australian Super Tans 4435 Nelson Rd. 477-5014
Laura McDaniel Manager
3113 Ryan St. 491-0925 190 N. Cities Service Hwy. Sulphur 626-0925 www.ASTtanning.com
ACME has built a solid reputation for dependable and professional sign services by using quality materials and skilled craftsmen. Family-owned and operated since 1942, James and Mary McDaniel are the present owners and Laura McDaniel is the manager. It’s all in the family! “We design, manufacture and install all types of exterior and interior, illuminated and non-illuminated signage,” Laura said. “Our fully computerized art department allows us to offer the most up-to-date, technical designing and digital printing that is available today. And our trained and experienced service and installation crews can handle any kind of repair or service problem.” No matter what type of sign you’re looking for, they can do it for you! Illuminated and non-illuminated; lighted, wood, aluminum, neon, magnetic, plastic and sandblasted signs. In addition, they offer banners, business cards, logos, large-format digital printing, electronic LED Message Centers and so much more! Acme Signs, 2709 Hodges Street, Lake Charles Open Mon - Thurs. 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Friday 7:30 - 11:30 a.m. (337) 474-0521, www.acmesignllc.com. TJN
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Australian Super Tans has the most to offer its customers! Staci and Wade Boudoin own the longest standing and the most upscale tanning salon in the Lake Area. “We are the only salon with multiple locations to serve you in Lake Charles and Sulphur,” says Staci. “Two are open seven days a week. You can buy time at one store and tan at all three!” The company has been in business for 20 years, and has been voted the NUMBER ONE tanning salon in SWLA every year since 2000! And they’ve been chosen as one of the Top 250 tanning salons in the United States twice! It’s no wonder. “We carry the highest quality equipment in the industry,” says Staci. “No other equipment performs like our Ergoline equipment. We feature 38 of the most powerful WOLFF beds in the industry, offering many different lev-
els of beds and stand-ups for you to choose from. Two Mystic Tan Booths offer UV-free tanning if you don’t want to use the beds. “Look for our certificates as proof that we are a professional salon,” she says. “At Australian Super Tans, all employees are ‘Smart Tan’ certified and thoroughly trained on lotion and tanning products.” The staff will help customize a special program that fits your budget and your schedule. Don’t miss the retail area: •Jewelry • Deco Mesh • Work Wreaths •AST clothing • Flip flops •Luggage & purses • Fleur de lis items •Wood Wick candles, reed diffusers, oils •Kids back packs, lunch bags, and more. Look for monthly specials and student discounts. Walk-ins are welcome. No appointments necessary! TJN
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5909 Hwy. 14 East Iowa, LA Ph: 337-540-0278 Fax: 337-478-5078 www.stansairboatservice.com/about-hydroseeding
5909 Hwy. 14 East, Iowa, LA 24 Hour Call: 337-802-9147 337-540-0278 www.stansairboatservice.com Stan’s Airboat & Marsh Excavator Service began as a company that provided transportation for clients whose jobs were non-accessible by terrain vehicles. We have now grown into a full service pipeline right of way reclamation and excavation as well as oil spill recovery, clean-up and disaster recovery service. We are fully insured, ISNETWORLD approved and have all OSHA and NCCER certifications. “We can get to most of our commercial clients within 1-2 days,” says Liz Todd, who owns the company with her husband Tommy. “Our business is successful due to our dependable employees. And because our equipment is small as far as marsh excavation is concerned, we are in a niche business.” Todd says that they have little downtime because they keep a local parts inventory and their operators are trained to fix most of the problems that arise. “We also own six Mini Marsh excavators,
so we can replace one quickly if the need arises,” she added. The Todds were already owners of AnuWorks, Inc. when their good friend who owned the marsh business were ready to sell. With help from local bankers and advisors, they were able to purchase Stan’s. “We take a lot of pride in being a Louisiana company and a Lake Area company,” Todd said. “Even with the tough economy of the last few years, we have managed to triple our excavator and Airboat fleets and double our sales, which we feel is a testament to our can-do and will-do attitude that is company-wide.” Todd says they have been blessed to have wonderful mentors—the previous owner as well as local business people whom they look up to. “Building business relationships and being able to help younger people in their personal growth is a huge reward,” Todd said. TJN
In 2001, Tommy and Liz Todd bought a hydroseeding business that was meant to be a replacement for AnuWorks, Inc.’s backbreaking work of building metal structures and fences. The metal-building business was too profitable to leave for the next five years, but the hydroseeding side continued to grow as well. Tommy Todd personally runs the business, and there’s a good chance that he will be spraying your job. “We specialize in erosion control and carry different grades of mulch to take care of the specific needs of your job,” said Liz Todd. “No job is too big or too small for our crew. We have serviced the State of La. DOTD with sprayed-on Erosion Control Bonded Fiber Matrix as well a vast array of contractors between
Mississippi and Houston.” In addition, AnuWorks does residential work. “We would also be happy to help you beautify your lawn whether it be with, native common bermuda, centipede or your own choice of grass that you may have researched and wish to experiment with,” Liz said. Their services can be used in but are not limited to the following applications: • Highway beautification and erosion control • Pipeline Right of Ways • Levee vegetation • Ditch and canal vegetation • Dust control • Embankment vegetation • Construction site vegetation • Lawn beautification Call us and ask about our free estimate! TJN
There are so many moments in life to cherish. Bijoux can help you design and create a piece of jewelry that celebrates both your love and your life together. The winner of two national design awards, Bijoux is happy to work with you to design that perfect piece of jewelry with their computer-aided design program. Using this program, you can design a piece of jewelry and see a virtual image of it before it is made. Our trained staff makes this experience easy and fun. Bijoux carries unique lines of jewelry that express your love. They have fine diamond and gemstone jewelry as well as fashion jewelry. Lines include Ti Sento Milano, Chamilia Beads, Jewel Pops, Jorge Rivilla and Revv. Come in today to create your own one-ofa-kind piece of jewelry! Bijoux jewelers opened in 2004 in Sulphur. Owner Annette St. Romain, a GIA Diamonds graduate, has over 30 years of experience in the jewelry industry. In December 2013, Bijoux opened in Lake Charles in the Que Pasa Shopping Center.
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My maternal grandmother Helen escaped the ignorance, poverty and misery of Poland during World War I, when her Uncle Louis Salzberg, her mother’s youngest brother, sent for his adored oldest sister and her children to come to America, where he had found a golden land. Had Louis not brought Rose Muriel, Helen, Emanuel and Dorothy to New York, my mother Martha and her five children, Leslie, Allison, Jocelyn, Louis and Melanie, and their children, Ryder, Jesse, Chelsea, Molly, Maxine and Macy, would never have been born. Because all of Louis’ brothers and sisters and their children and grandchildren who refused to leave Radomsk perished in the Holocaust. Louis paid the passage for as many of his sisters who would come, and a few others did. Their children and grandchildren are the result of their risk-taking, flexibility and good fortune. Like the Jews who fled the Egyptian Pharaoh, my family exists because my great grandmother, for whom I am named, had the courage to flee the familiar and start over with nothing in a new land promising religious and personal freedom. Even with passage money, and a few precious things that survived the journey, my great grandmother, my grandmother, my great uncle and great aunt were lucky to make it to the end of the journey in safety. And I was reminded of our luck every Friday night when my grandmother ushered in the Sabbath with a silent prayer for her lost loved ones, her lips moving as she mouthed their names, tears streaming down behind hands covering her eyes. Although my own outlook is usually sunny, and I hate confrontation and
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dwelling on negative thoughts, for Grandma’s sake and for the sake of the lost generations of my family, I make myself read and think about the horrors of the Holocaust, so that I, at least, will not forget. My own practice is multiplied ten-thousandfold on Yom Hashoah, or Holocaust Remembrance Day. This day is observed each year throughout the world as a day of commemoration for Jews like my cousins who perished between 1933 – 1945 at the hands of the Nazis and their collaborators. On April 18, Lake Charles will hold its second annual observance of International Holocaust Remembrance Day at the Lake Charles Civic Center Exhibition Hall (lakefront side), beginning with a photo exhibit opening at 4 p.m., followed by a memorial program and candlelight vigil at 5 p.m. Lake Charles City Council President Mark Eckard will deliver a welcome, and Rabbi Barry Weinstein of Temple Sinai will explain the meaning of Yom Hashoah. Guest speakers will include both a Holocaust survivor and the son of a Holocaust survivor who was part of the underground Jewish resistance movement. McNeese State University Community Clarinet Choir and a musical group from LaGrange High School will perform. For more information about Yom Hashoah events, please call (337) 491-1440. Human history is rife with genocide – the deliberate and systematic destruction, in whole or in part, of an ethnic, racial, religious, or national group – from the earliest recordation of war and conflict among nations. In the 20th century alone, we are familiar with many such tragedies: The deaths of 1.5 million ethnic Armenians at the hands of the Ottoman Turks before and during World War I; the extermination of 21 percent of the Cambodian people (1.8 million), including members of political opposition, educated middle class, Buddhist monks, ethnic Chinese and Vietnamese, and Muslims, in the “killing fields” of the Khmer Rouge during the Pol Pot regime; and the Rwandan civil war in 1994 in which 800,000 Tutsis (almost 20 percent of the population) were killed by the Hutu in only 100 days. But when we refer to the Holocaust, we mean the genocide visited by the Nazis during World War II on the Jews of Europe, who were systematically rounded up for transport to concentration camps, where they were scientifically murdered by Zyklon-B in gas chambers that became crematoria in which their bodies were incinerated, hundreds and thousands of them per hour, in an assembly line. Between the gas chambers and mass shootings, nearly six million Jews from the lands of German occupation – of the nine million that were the entire Jewish population in Europe in 1939 – were erased as if they never had been. Two-thirds of Europe’s Jews. Nearly 70 percent. At least five million non-Jews also perished at Nazi hands, including Romany (Gypsies), religious dissenters such as Jehovah’s witnesses, the disabled, homosexuals, political opponents, Polish and Russian civilians, and more than three million Russian prisoners of war; some historians place the total count at nearly 17 million dead in the Holocaust, including the six million Jews. We know the numbers of those who perished in the concentration camps because the Germans kept meticulous records with names, lists of items of jewelry and clothing removed from prisoners, their prisoner numbers and their dates of death, and most of those records had not been destroyed before Hitler killed himself and Eva Braun in their hideout, as the Axis powers fell to the Allied Forces. The Germans left records of sadistic medical experiments performed on internees and the precise amount of gas needed to kill one, one hundred or 10,000 people, but the most horrendous facts of the Holocaust have come to us from personal accounts of survivors and from the eyewitness liberators of the camps. The stories of survivors and those who perished have been the subjects of hundreds of books and dozens of films such as The Diary of Anne Frank, Schindler’s List, Holocaust survivor and Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel’s Night, and Sophie’s Choice, to name just a few, but as the survivors and the liberators age and die, their stories fade from memory, and the voices of Holocaust deniers – the fringe faction that claims the Holocaust never happened – grow louder. We must continue to remember the Holocaust, to keep the memories of witnesses alive, and to say “never again!” for the sake of future generations. TJN Volume 5 • Issue 1
by Angie Kay Dilmore First National Bank DeRidder has been a cornerstone of Beauregard Parish commerce since 1934. Now, these enthusiastic bankers have branched out to meet the banking needs of Calcasieu Parish folks, too. Their brand new Moss Bluff office opened at the corner of Highway 171 and Clyde Dulaney Road on March 11. They’ll celebrate this new venture with a grand opening on May 4. President John F. Kennedy once said, “Change is the law of the land.” The leaders at First National Bank DeRidder (FNBD) fully embrace this notion and apply it to their daily banking operations. “We are continuously changing to meet the needs of our customers. It’s on-going,” said John Fusilier, President and CEO. “We are a leader in combining community banking and new technology.” Similar Name, But NOT the Same The managers at First National Bank DeRidder caution their clients and potential customers not to be confused by some other banks in the area that have similar-sounding names. First National Bank DeRidder and these other banks are in no way related; FNBD is a completely separate business. You can be certain that much more than a distinctive logo sets FNBD apart from the others. No other bank uniquely combines small community customer service with high-tech modern amenities, such as state-of-the-art ATMs, mobile banking apps, and fast easy loan applications. Whether you prefer on-line banking or face-to-face financial transactions, this “bank for a new generation” is the bank for you. You can enjoy a cup of coffee, chat with a friendly teller, apply for a loan with your mobile phone, or make a late-night deposit. Whatever your banking needs, FNBD has you covered. Remember, if it doesn’t say DeRidder, it’s not that same bank from Beauregard that you’ve been hearing so many good things about.
Justin Holt, John Fusilier and Mary Williams
A Dedicated Staff First National Bank DeRidder employees are local people who know and understand their customers. Tonya Goss, assistant manager of the Moss Bluff office, Chief Operating Officer Mary Williams and Marketing Director Misti Trosclair all reside in Calcasieu Parish. They came to FNBD from Cameron State Bank and have many years of banking experience. Williams calls Moss Bluff home. “We live in the community,” she said. “We know our customers and they know us. That’s one of our advantages. I’ve been working here at FNBD for a month and what has most impressed me are the employees. Some of them have been with FNBD since the 1970s.” Goss added, “Obviously, it’s a great bank and a great company to work for.” A Community Bank You Can Take With You Anywhere “Customers want the personal service of community banking with the technology of the bigger banks,” said Chief Lending Officer Justin Holt. “FNBD offers both. Everybody wants to deal with a community bank. They want that personal experience. In our modern age, in this fast-paced world we live in, there isn’t always time for that.
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“I had a unique mortgage lending situation that I needed assistance with. I’ve been in banking since 1995, I felt like I had established some quality lending contacts in Lake Charles who could help me out. We were building a shop house and no one knew how to help us. I exhausted all of my resources and called every other bank and credit union in Lake Charles. Most had no idea what I was talking about, and the others were just unsure. I decided as my last ditch effort to try Justin Holt at First National Bank DeRidder. He knew exactly what I needed and how to help me. He never second guessed himself or had to call someone else to find out what he needed to do. He got us preapproved and on our way to building our home. I was so impressed with their customer service that I now work at First National Bank DeRidder.”
needs of the community,” he explained. “Since then, we have aggressively sought out that type of relationship with customers.” The loan department really got moving a few years later when loan Laura Benoit – satisfied customer and employee expert Justin Holt approached Fusilier and offered his services to increase their mortgage loan business. At first, Holt was told, “We tried So clients opt for the bigger bank because it’s convenient. FNBD takes that but it didn’t work.” Holt’s reply? “Well, you didn’t try it with the the community bank that everyone loves and grows it further by putright person.” He created a mortgage loan department and a position ting banking technology in the customer’s pocket.” for himself at FNBD and has become a vital part of their team. Take FNBD with you anywhere. You can visit them in person, or “It’s been a growing success since then,” he said. “We’ve sold around contact them through your computer or cell phone. Their new mobile 25 million dollars in home loans a year.” Many of these loans were for banking app allows customers to apply for loans via their phones. They customers in Calcasieu Parish. These are also in the process of expanding their app service to include mobile satisfied patrons wanted to do everydeposits and bill payments. This technology is a benefit that other small day banking with FNBD, but it wasn’t community banks do not offer. convenient. This prompted FNBD to “We’re a community bank that is also a leader in technology,” said open the Moss Bluff office--to better Holt. “We want the customer to feel comfortable. They’re part of our serve their customers and meet all of team.” their banking needs. Need a Loan? FNBD Can Help! With their three offices in the DeRidder area, FNBD has faithfully served Beauregard Parish for nearly eight decades. In the past, the bank offered loans, but lending was not their primary focus. In 2004, Fusilier joined the FNBD team and re-directed the way they did business. “We wanted more emphasis on lending and meeting the borrowing
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Holt Seals Deals When Others Fail Holt attended McNeese State University and graduated with a degree in business and finance. After college, he started out as a loan processor. Then, he opened his own mortgage loan company in DeRidder. He found success there, but saw that the industry was changing and felt it was the perfect time to join a financially sound institution. Misti Trosclair Since coming onboard with FNBD, AVP Marketing & Holt thrives as the Chief Lending Customer Relations Officer. By his enthusiasm, it’s obvious Director he loves his job and strives to do the best he can for his customers. Dealing with commercial ventures as well as personal home loans, Holt can close deals when other loan officers cannot. He’s knowledgeable about how big business banking works, and understands the complicated applications and ever-changing guidelines, which makes him an excellent loan officer. This expertise ensures the customer quick results. “We want to be as efficient as possible,” Holt said. “Every loan is unique. No two are the same. I look at those key elements on someone’s application and point out the strengths and weaknesses, address any problems, and discuss them with the customer up front.” Holt exhibits keen financial foresight, seeing potential issues that may slow down a loan application and finds solutions to expedite the loan process. “Our primary goal is to provide fast customer service,” Fusilier said. “We don’t like to leave customers hanging. Whether or not we will provide the loan, we want to give the customer an answer as quickly as possible. We never want the customer to have to wait on the bank. They may have to wait on the lawyer, appraiser, or someone other than the bank whose services we are using. But FNBD will not be the reason for a delay.” Because FNBD emphasizes customer service, all employees, including Holt and Fusilier, are accessible to their clients. Holt
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Tonya Goss Assistant Branch Manager, Moss Bluff
“Interest in Art” segment on the Friday mid-day show, featuring various local artists. They also have teamed up with the American Heart Association. “When it comes to serving our community...we aren’t just involved, we are committed” Fusilier said. First National Bank DeRidder will continue to serve their established customers in Debit Transactions with No Fees FNBD Moss Bluff Branch Grand Opening A common problem with small commu- First National Bank DeRidder invites everyone Beauregard Parish with three full-service banks and a drive-through facility. They’ve expanded nity banks is a lack of convenient, no-fee to the grand opening of their new Moss Bluff ATMs. This is not the case with FNBD. This facility on May 4, 2013, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. into Calcasieu Parish with an office in Moss progressive bank is part of a network of This community event will feature games for the Bluff and a mortgage loan origination office on banks including Iberia Bank and Jeff Davis Nelson Rd. And they plan to continue growing. kids, food, prizes and giveaways including an Bank that have joined together and formed “We’ve purchased another piece of property iPad, a massage, and a Beretta Extreme 3.5 inch a program called “Community Cash,” which on Nelson Rd. and plan to begin construction shotgun. “It’s going to be a fun time,” said offers free ATM service all along the Gulf on a new full service bank this summer,” Marketing Director Misti Trosclair. Coast. First National Bank DeRidder’s new Fusilier said. state-of-the-art ATMs have a unique scanning feature that allows cusFor all your banking needs, get on board with First National Bank tomers to deposit checks and cash 24/7. DeRidder, the bank for a new generation. Their Moss Bluff office is located at 1838 N Highway 171, on the corner of Clyde Dulaney Rd. Grand Opening CD Special Call (337) 217-8262 for more details. TJN In celebration of the grand opening of their new Moss Bluff office, FNBD is offering a CD special. It’s a 13-month CD at 1.25 percent interest with a minimum deposit of $1,000. Participants must have a checking account with FNBD, and they will receive a free safe deposit box for six months. doesn’t hesitate to give those clients who are going through the loan or mortgage process his cell phone number. “Our main focus is customer service,” he explained. “Our customers will deal with the same FNBD employee from start to finish. We offer the best rates with the lowest fees.” Whereas other banks have strict rules and regulations, FNBD incorporates flexibility in their policies. “If there is a way to do something, we can get it done,” Fusilier said. “Increased regulations have made loans more difficult to obtain; however, at First National Bank DeRidder, we recognize there are certain situations that require out-ofthe-box thinking because it’s good for the customer and it’s good for the bank. We can cater our processes to meet our customers’ particular needs.”
GenGold Program Offers Savings and Rebates First National Bank DeRidder offers their clients a local business partner program called GenGold. For $4.95 a month, clients receive savings and rebates on products and services from popular local Shelly businesses. On-line shopping, Mancuso groceries, travel -- GenGold Teller helps members “live better for less!” Members also receive identity protection. ‘My FNB’ First National Bank DeRidder wants customers to take ownership of their bank. Accordingly, they are planning on marketing a SMS text that will be called “MY FNB.” It’s another way for the bank to connect with their customers on a more personal level. Beyond Banking - Reaching Out to the Community First National Bank DeRidder understands the importance of reaching out and being an integral part of the community. They’ve partnered with schools for various needs. They sponsor KPLC-TV’s
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Inspirational I’ll admit that I wasn’t feeling too inspired in the early going of the column-writing thought process this week. Fatherhood may have had something to do with it. All that time spent thinking about diapers and burp cloths and snuggling a precious little girl and you tend to forget such trivial things such as the World of Sports still exist. So, short on inspiration, I found myself reading about the McNeese State women’s basketball team and their journey to the postseason after
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an up-and-down regular season campaign. And then I watched two of the United States Men’s Soccer team’s World Cup Qualifying games. And the light bulb flicked on. The Cowgirls recently reached the semifinals (as of this writing) of the Women’s Basketball Invitational tournament after having bowed out of the Southland Conference tournament early and after being passed over for both the Women’s NCAA and National Invitational tournaments. They could have given up after los-
ing to Oral Roberts in the Southland semifinals, content to returning to schoolwork and offseason conditioning. But the Cowgirls were back in the practice gym, just like usual, waiting until they were told their season was officially over. It wasn’t. The Cowgirls got a surprise invitation from the WBI tournament, the women’s equivalent of the men’s Collegeinsider.com Tournament. The WBI is a long way from playing Baylor and Texas A&M on a national stage, to be sure. But the Cowgirls didn’t care. They went out, as the eightseed (read: lowest) in the West Region, and beat top-seeded Mercer by 12 points and fourth-seeded Elon by eight. If they beat sixth-seeded South Dakota in the semifinals (in Vermillion, S.D., 1,042 miles away), the Cowgirls will need to beat either Detroit or Penn, the top two seeds in the East Region, in the championship. Of course, I would love to see the Cowgirls come home with some hardware after a third-consecutive postseason appearance. But, to me, even making it this far, having the heart and for-
titude to go out on the road, in a lessthan-glamorous tournament, and continue to work hard and play to win is inspiring. Definitely more inspiring than the performance Kentucky, the reigning men’s national champion, put on in the men’s NIT this year. After losing their best player, Nerlens Noel, to a knee injury in February, the Wildcats, who were already struggling against a baby-soft Southeastern Conference schedule, completely fell off the radar and failed to qualify for the NCAA tournament. No repeat for them. Of course, Kentucky did get an invitation to the NIT. Not exactly what the defending champs were working for, but, hey, it’s at least a tournament. LSU won two fewer games and got to watch the postseason at Shady’s Bar for its troubles. So, what did Kentucky do with its invitation to the NIT, with its top seed in a postseason tournament? The Wildcats went out and gagged away their opening round game with eightseed (read: lowest) Robert Morris
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University. That’s Robert Morris University out of Pittsburgh, not to be confused with the RMU out in Chicago. That’s Robert Morris University (of Pittsburgh), alma mater of robotics company CEOs, United States ambassadors, and Liberian soccer players. Not much history in basketball, though. And yet Kentucky, the school of Adolph Rupp, Rick Pitino, and Ashley Judd went out and got ganked by a school with an enrollment some 23,000 students fewer than itself. But I digress. The American men’s soccer team faced off with Costa Rica in blizzard conditions on the home field of the Colorado Rapids. The Americans, desperate for a win after losing their first qualifying match away to Honduras (though, to be fair, it was played in what is referred to as the World’s Most Dangerous City, so, you know, intimidation), needed a win at all costs. That included playing in conditions not dissimilar to the 2000 Independence Bowl, aka Snow Bowl. No matter. Clint Dempsey scored in the 16th minute and the USA was able to fend off both Costa Rica and the urge to build a snowman on the pitch to earn the vital three points. Four days later, the Americans traveled to Mexico City to play hated rival Mexico in one of the least hospitable places in all of soccer, Estadio Azteca, which features an altitude of 7,000-plus feet, air so smoggy you could cut it with a butter knife, and a lunatic crowd of fans that takes any opportunity to throw bodily fluids and shine lasers at American players and fans. The USA’s previous record in Mexico in World Cup qualifiers, zero wins, 13 losses, one draw. And yet, despite the odds, the Americans came away with a massive 0-0 draw and with it a crucial point toward World Cup qualification. It was a tremendous performance under duress. It was a legendary feat in the annals of American soccer. To me, combined with the heart shown by the McNeese Cowgirls basketball team, it was inspirational.
Brandon Shoumaker is a graduate of McNeese State University and has covered sports for more than a decade for various publications. Coaches or parents with story tips or comments may contact Brandon at bshoumaker@yahoo.com or send him a message on Twitter (@bshoumaker).
TJN
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Brandon Shoumaker APRIL 4, 2013
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Thrill Rides on the Best-Seller List
The best-seller lists are always filled with thrillers. Let’s check out a few. Two Graves by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child is the conclusion of their trilogy featuring FBI Special Agent Aloysius Pendergast. The agent believed
that his wife was dead, but has just found out that she is, in fact, alive. But maybe not for long. Pendergast pulls himself back from the brink of death to take on a compassionless antagonist who can practically make himself invisible. Fortunately, Pendergast
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seems almost to have superpowers. And he is the only one who could possibly figure out a murder case that was tailor-made for him. Meanwhile, a woman is trying to figure out why her father was framed for back robbery, and a doctor tries to finagle his way into a nightmare mansion, owned by an aging eccentric. But these story lines have nothing to do with the main story. (I did not read the first two books. Maybe they are relevant in them.) The book starts out with guns blazing and seldom lets up on the action-action-action. There’s an exciting chase scene with a plane, a spooky stalking fight-to-thedeath in the dark, and several murder scenes in Manhattan hotels that feature a unique, cold-blooded serial killer who seems to want to be caught. The bizarre plot, like something out of a Batman comic book, moves from New York to Mexico
to South America as Pendergast chases the bad guys. The title comes from an old proverb: “Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.” The Pendergast trilogy began with Fever Dream and continued with Cold Vengeance. The authors suggest that they “should be read in sequence.” I would agree. The Fifth Assassin by Brad Meltzer features archivist Beecher White, hero of Meltzer’s previous book, The Inner Circle. Beecher comes to a stunning realization, that the murders of religious personages in the U.S. capital may be linked to the assassinations of U.S. presidents. He thinks that “two of the world’s most ruthlesss hunters were not just organized, not just linked together — they might’ve actually been working for the same Volume 5 • Issue 1
cause.” And perhaps all four assassinations were even linked to each other. Were they one giant conspiracy? Someone has reenacted the assassinations of presidents Lincoln and Garfield, and Beecher suspects the killer will continue, and that the current president may become the fifth victim. Can he stop the killer in time? There is a private spy ring started by George Washington, a dead man who isn’t dead, old friends from Beecher’s hometown in Wisconsin, a patient at a hospital for the criminally insane, secret societies, blackmail, hidden messages and false clues. Besides recalling U.S. history, Meltzer gives us the history of playing cards, which serve as clues. Beecher’s an interesting protagonist: “I learned that good archivists follow the rules, while great archivists follow their hunch,” he says. Capital Punishment by Robert Wilson is the one I liked. A woman in London calls her 25year-old daughter and a man answers the phone. He tells her he has kidnapped her daughter, and that “there’s a whole process for us to go through before you’ll get the chance to speak” to her. Also, he says, “This is not about money.” This is no ordinary kidnapping. The man on the phone knows way too many family details. Who is this guy? What does he want, if not money? Could the kidnappers be gangsters? Terrorists? The kidnapped young woman is Alyshia D’Cruz, the daughter of an Indian billionaire who was once a Bollywood actor. He has Volume 5 • Issue 1
many enemies as a result of his ruthless business deals. To find and save Alyshia, her father calls in Charles Boxer, a “freelance kidnap consultant.” Boxer is a gambler, an ex-army man now in private security, and he has done some ethically questionable work for his clients — including things of which he is not proud. The plot is rather deliciously twisted in upon itself with a kind of “who has her now?” storyline that keeps the reader turning the pages. This is the first in a new series, and Boxer will be an interesting hero/antihero to follow. The Andalucian Friend by Alexander Söderberg is set in Stockholm, but the action also moves to various parts of Europe and South America. Sophie Brinkmann is a nurse in Stockholm. A widow, Sophie becomes interested in one of her patients, a charming man named Hector who is obviously attracted to her. At a party reminiscent of the wedding scene in The Godfather, Sophie meets his family. And that’s a fair comparison, because it turns out that Hector and his father are the leaders of a huge crime family. His family is at war with another multigenerational crime family, one based in Germany and another in Spain. They’re fighting over arms shipments, drugs, money laundering and power in general. The female Swedish police officer who is heading a group fighting international organized crime wants to recruit Sophie to find evidence to put Hector and his family out of business. This is the first of a trilogy. Copyright © 2013 by Mary Louise Ruehr. TJN APRIL 4, 2013
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was a great example of showcasing a variety of talent. While there was more to attract attendees then just music, entertainment was the main purpose of the gathering, and each night brought out a large crowd. Ashes of Babylon returned home, and the venue introduced us to some new names like Lafayette-based The Lost Bayou Ramblers. South by Southwest s n i is a fabulous annual k n e J lin music and film festival By Bray held in Austin, Texas every March. Bands stop at other venues outside of the Austin City Limits before they make landfall While we all know that larger and take SXSW by storm. This year, areas host many more popular musicians from France, Greece artists, our small venues are showCanada and other parts of the U.S. casing talent like never before. Many stopped in Lake Charles on their way of the Lake City’s downtown spots to SXSW, sharing their vibe with the have been giving their open mic Lake City. nights a strong push and the talent is Recently, Tipitina’s Co-Op graced showing up. its presence in the Lake City at 2128 Recently, I emceed an open mic Hodges Street. Tipitina’s originated night at Dharma and was impressed in New Orleans and has been showby the various genres of music that casing music talent for decades. were being performed and the Tipitina's Music Office Co-Op and diverse crowd of supporters and Rehearsal Lake Charles recently music enthusiasts. Local musicians hosted a special preview series of who want to get their music out there workshops designed to help musishould jump on the bandwagon and cians. Having something of this calsecure a spot on open mic night. iber here is huge. If you are interestAs a performer, you never know ed, give them a call at (337) 433who could be watching and waiting 5779 or visit www.tipitinasfoundato find the next big thing, even right tion.org. here. The Cigar Club, Micci’s Piano If you are hoping to be discovered, Lounge, Nooma Internet Lounge and then I will see you at FOX 29’s “The many others are using live shows as a X Factor, Lake Charles Auditions.” It’s chance to captivate new clientele-a great way to take the stage and and it is working. potentially take advantage of what One of my favorite local musicould be a life-changing moment. Up cians, Paul Gonsoulin, messaged me to four winners will be picked (one in on Facebook a few months back, each category), who will then get a inviting me to hear him play at the guaranteed audition in front of “The Cigar Club. Ever since that visit, I X Factor” producers in New Orleans have been back countless times, on Sun., April 14. The local auditions whether it was to just relax or to hear will take place at McNeese’s F. G. other musicians. I’m now a fan of Bulber Auditorium, Sat., April 6 from Second Nature, Brian Moore and 3 – 8 p.m. For more information, go Korey Fontenot, to name a few. The to www.watchfox29.com. jazz scene is also picking up. Jazz in The Lake City is on the move the Arts, a charitable event, focuses when it comes to music. Getting your on area musicians who are well talent on the stage now could mean a known for their talent, and Street great pay-off in the future. If you’re Side Jazz Band and Mason Feduccia nervous, work it out and challenge and Kevin Auguillard are making yourself to go for it. And as I always names for themselves. say, get out and take a breather, even I’m always open to new music if for only an hour, because you never genres and artists. I thought the past know when that chance might just concert series, Live @ The Lakefront, pass you by forever.
Music on the Move
TJN
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Volume 5 • Issue 1
By Jacob Fusilier
thick cut bacon cooked in roasted garlic honey mustard sauce and brown sugar on Texas toast. The sauce and brown sugar created a wonderful caramelized texture on the bacon while still keeping it crispy. With the added smoothness of the avocado, it brought the sandwich to a different level of BLT. The sides we had ordered were just what I had expected. The baked beans were the classic dish that we have come to know and love. The fried garlic potatoes were small, chopped russet potatoes pan-fried in a blend of minced garlic, garlic powder and pepper. We received ours just a bit cold, but not enough to keep us from eating them up. For dessert, we ordered the bourbon pear and pan-seared peach. The bourbon pear was a half pear soaked in bourbon overnight served with vanilla ice cream. For my preference, the pear had a bit too much bourbon flavor, as If I took a shot of bourbon, but paired with the vanilla bean ice cream, it was a good combination. The panseared peach was a half peach glazed in caramel sauce and served with homemade cinnamon ice cream. The peach was nice and warm, reminding me of peach cobbler but with the bonus of pairing it with the ice cream. This dessert was right on point for us. Not too big, not too small and a great combination of flavors and temperatures. The second time, I called in an order to go: the chicken Caesar salad pita with the Louisiana potato salad and the homemade Cajun burger with marshmallow yams with candied pecans. The chicken pita was a traditional take on a Caesar pita with tangy Caesar dressing, romaine
The Picnic Basket
A Small Spot with Big Promise Passing down Common Street the other day, I saw a new restaurant had opened up in the spot where Isa’s Latin restaurant used to be on the corner of Alamo and Common Street. It’s called the Picnic Basket, and is the “Home of the Pretzel Bun.” A friend and I decided to try it out. It retained the same small interior with one round table and a patio area with four or five round tables and a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere. The owner and one other person were working and it seemed they had just finished a good lunch rush. We took a seat on the patio and the owner was right behind us with menus in hand. The menu, which consisted of around ten entrees, four sides and three desserts, was small but had good diversity. Looking at the prices, I was happy to see everything was nicely priced in the $4.75 -$6.50 range. It was suggested we try the homemade meatloaf sandwich with the oven-baked beans with onions and bacon. My friend ordered the bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado sandwich with the fried garlic potatoes. The meatloaf sandwich, which is served hot or cold, was dense meatloaf with good flavor and came on Texas toast with mayo and mustard. I had ordered mine cold and as delicious as it was, I can’t wait to order it hot the next time. The bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado was a wonderfully different kind of BLT. It consisted of romaine lettuce, tomatoes, sliced avocado, and
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lettuce and an easy-to-handle, delicious pita pocket. The Cajun Burger was dressed with romaine lettuce, tomatoes, white onions, pickles and white American cheese on a pretzel bun. The eightounce patty was very juicy and the pretzel bun (salt-free for anyone with sodium issues), bounced back after being squeezed with a great pretzel flavor. Their potato salad was made with the same small cubes as the fried garlic potatoes and mixed with mustard, mayo, celery, onion, and Cajun seasoning. The yams were just the way I like them, especially with the candied pecans thrown in, making this a great side as well as dessert alternative. From what I was told, the menu will change every six months or so, while keeping some of the most popular items. This will keep things different and interesting. With the combination of greattasting sandwiches, solid sides, interesting desserts, and relaxing atmosphere, The Picnic Basket, in my opinion, is great small spot with big flavor and promise.
The Picnic Basket 538 Alamo Street Lake Charles, La., 70601 Mon. – Fri. 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. (337)532 -7693 FOOD FACT The pretzel can be traced back to the early Romans, although the twisted loose knot shape is thought to be introduced in the early part of the 7th century. The first U.S. commercial pretzel factory was established in 1861 in Lititz, Pennsylvania. Questions, comments, concerns? Email jakefuse23@gmail.com.
TJN
APRIL 4, 2013
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FINANCE! - WORD SEARCH
Annuity Banker Checking Account Debit Card Deposit
Escrow Federal Reserve Finance Interest Rate Line of Credit
Loan Money Mortgage Savings Stop Payment
The Dot Game Players take turns connecting two dots. When you make a square, put your initials in the
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box and take another turn. When all dots are connected, the player with the most boxes wins.
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otherwise technically I’d be a girl.” If you like Steve Carell, Steve Buscemi, and Jim Carrey, you’ll most likely enjoy Burt Wonderstone. These three guys give it their all in some really outrageous scenes. As much as I respect Alan Arkin and Olivia Wilde, their roles are too weak for their talent. Even so, the best part of the movie, besides the wonderful opening, is the performance of Alan Arkin as an aging magician. In classic Arkin style, he wins us and his audi-
ences over with his no-nonsense talk and New York accent. Burt Wonderstone is a sweet film that captures some of our wonder when it comes to magic and magicians. The only problem with it are the cringe-worthy tricks by Jim Carrey--trust me, there’s some gruesome and offensive stuff here. That being said, some folks laughed through the whole movie. The Incredible Burt Wonderstone is rated PG-13 for language and on-screen street surgery. TJN
The Incredible Burt Wonderstone (2013, New Line Cinema, Warner Bros.) I’m a sucker for magic. I love watching it, even though I couldn’t change a one-dollar bill without dropping all the quarters. So I was anxious to see The Incredible Burt Wonderstone. Steve Carell plays Burt, a boy who receives a magic kit for his birthday. It includes a video by Rance Holloway (Alan Arkin), who promises that people will like you if you can do magic. Burt grows up to realize his childhood dream of being a magician. He and his school buddy, Anton (Steve Buscemi) are the classic nerd kids, interested only in magic. They start out as the butt of jokes by their classmates, but the story quickly moves on to their career as entertainers in Las Vegas. As the years go by, some of the magic fades. Burt becomes a cynical wannabee ladies man, luring groupies with his fame. His home is a flashy bachelor pad, complete with posters of himself and a bed that seats five. Ok, not seats, but you get the idea. Then along comes Steve Gray (Jim Carrey), a street magician who threatens to disrupt the whole idea of what a magic show is. He works in the streets of Vegas followed around by a camera crew, and he’s making the news with his body injuring gross-out stunts. Volume 5 • Issue 1
Burt and Anton look on, dismayed by this upstart who threatens their popularity. They have a new assistant, Jane (Olivia Wilde) who is there to – well, I don’t know exactly why she’s there, but she has a lot of lines in the movie. Do you like famous people? There are plenty in Burt Wonderstone, including Alan Arkin and David Copperfield, as well as the stars I’ve mentioned. The problem is, most of them don’t add much to our story. Jim Carrey, as usual, is over the top as a street magician. He performs one self-injuring stunt after another, including holding his urine for a week. If you find this funny, you‘ll love this movie. But like the main characters in the story, I don’t really see this as magic. To give anything else of the plot away would be pointless, because you can see where the movie is going, sweetly and slowly. Overall, I would have liked to have seen more magic in Burt Wonderstone, both literally and in the story. The first scenes, with Burt as a child, capture everything every youngster has thought about magic, from getting their first magic set to practicing on friends. What a great opening! The humor is mostly in the form of one-liners. Meeting Burt in school, shrimpy Anton says, “I have to take testosterone, APRIL 4, 2013
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BARK FOR LIFE FUNDRAISER The first annual "canine event" to fight cancer was sponsored by the American Cancer Society and held on the Lake Charles Civic Center grounds. This crowd of big-hearted canine lovers and canines put their best paws forward to support the fight for cancer. There was a look-alike owner/canine contest, costume contest, delicious jambalaya and more. Two paws up for this successful event and see ya next year!
Brandi Guillory and Katrina Pickett
Baelynn and Chad Thibodeaux with Erin Davison
Amanda St. Mary and Karie Bushnell
Caden Schexneider and Daegan Welch
Betty Scott with Michaela and Madeleine Mere
Katie McCarty and Karen Seal
Adrian and Amanda Bledsoe with Alyssa Lavergne
Haley Goins and Marcie Dorman
AUTISM BENEFIT DINNER Nicholas Hunter and Harlequin Steaks & Seafood hosted a wonderful event to benefit the Autism Support Alliance, a program of Family and Youth. Supporters enjoyed an evening of socializing, live music, a variety of delicious foods, wine tastings provided by the Wine Store, silent auction bids and more. Raise your glass to a successful benefit! Tammy Broussard and Tammy Rousseau Volume 5 • Issue 1
Virginia Kate Mather, Maria Galan and Lisa Billodeau
Candis Carr and Kimberly Dixon APRIL 4, 2013
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Kevin and Krystal Richard
Elaine and Randy Robb
Edith and Bryan Beam with Deborah Bauman
LCCB’S ASSEMBLE’ 2013 The Lake Charles Civic Ballet’s Assemble’ 2013 was held at the Rosa Hart Theatre, and was so much more than a ballet! It was a crowd-pleasing theatre experience as the dancers of the LCCB came together with several guest artist to fuse classical dance with our region's rich art, music and choreography. Bravo!
Mike Holleman and Jennifer Bellon
Kristin and Emily Groves with Mary Claire
Chloe Peloquin with Mallory and Rhonda Colletta
Madlyn Fontenot and Dana Sorrells
Denys and Marin O’Neal with Eloise Huber and Finn O’Neal PAGE 36
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Gillian and Lauren Storey with Mary’Elise Milligan
Mischelle Jask and Jam writer Angie Dilmore
Bridget and Hope McDaniel
Phil and Lauren de Albuquerque Volume 4 • Issue 25
THE NEW MILLENNIUM PARK GRAND OPENING It’s official, Millennium Park opened with a blast! Crowds of kids and families were soooo excited to experience this new park--which is over two times the size of the original! Smiling ear to ear, kiddos had fun rock and ladder climbing, swinging, getting high in the sky in the Eagles Nest Tree House, monkeying around on the bars and so much more! And there was plenty for the little tykes to do at the Tot Lot! Way to go, community! TJN Emma Guillory, Garrettt Himel, Adam Guillory and Ty Himel
Byron Lewis Jr., Byron Lewis Sr. and Empriss Lewis
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Kobe Clemons and Derek Embry
Tre Shepard and Donovan Praylor
Tara and Blaze Ellender with Eric Anceleet
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PUEBLO POTTERY GALLERY TALK APRIL 4 Dr. Ray Miles, Dean, College of Liberal Arts at McNeese State University, will conduct a gallery talk on Thurs., April 4 from 6-8 p.m. at 1911 Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center, 1001 Ryan Street. “Art Traditions among the Pueblo Indians” is open to all ages at no charge and is being held in conjunction with “Pueblo to Pueblo: The Legacy of Southwest Indian Pottery” currently on display. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. For more information, call 491-9147 or visit www.cityoflakecharles.com.
FUN FRIDAY, APRIL 5: FINGER PAINT Join the group anytime between 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. in the ArtSpace! FUN FRIDAY, APRIL 12: PLAYDOUGH Join the group anytime between 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. in the ArtSpace! SASOL’S SECOND SATURDAY SCIENCE SHOW APRIL 13 Join Sasol at 11 a.m. for “Exploring the Science of Surfaces!” Discover surface tension and make different shape surfaces with bubbles. THURSDAY, APRIL 18: ADVENTURE OF THE SENSES This program, for families with autism spectrum disorders, is an afterhours opportunity to come and enjoy the museum with families dealing with similar impairments. Promotes language and social development. Families are welcome from 5-6:30 p.m. Admission fees paid by SWLA Autism Chapter. Donations are welcome. The Children's Museum is located at 327 Broad Street downtown Lake Charles. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is $7.50 for children and adults. For more information, call 337-433-9420 or visit www.swlakids.org.
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CAJUN MUSTANGERS CLUB CAR SHOW APRIL 6 The Cajun Mustangers will be having their annual car show on April 6. There will be food, drinks and door prizes, and auction items up for bid. Come out to see some great cars and to have some great family fun. A portion of the proceeds from the show will go to Wounded Warriors charitable organization. The event will be held at Tarver Ford, 930 N. Beglis Pkwy, Sulphur, from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information, call 433-8504. JOINING HANDS FOR AUTISM WALK APRIL 6 The purpose of the event is to spread autism awareness and educate the public about Autism Services of SWLA, the St. Nicholas Center, and the Autism Society and how they support persons with autism and their families. Walk: Pre-registration is $15, day of event$20. 5k: Pre-registration is $20, day of event- $25. Walk begins at 7 a.m. at ICCS School, 1536 Ryan St. Call (337) 436-5001 or visit www.autismservicesswla.com for more information. LAKE CHARLES SYMPHONY APRIL 6 “A Journey of Life,” the final concert of the Lake Charles Symphony’s 2012-2013 season, will be held Sat., April 6, in the Rosa Hart Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Saturday’s program includes the Sibelius Violin Concerto in D Minor, known for its technical brilliance, and the rich and the passionate Symphony No. 6 in B Minor (Pathetique) by Tchaikovsky. Lin He, the symphony’s concert master, will be soloist for what is considered one of the greatest concertos in the repertoire. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for seniors/students. They may be purchased at the Symphony Office, 809 Kirby St., Room 210; the Civic Center Box Office, or online at www.lcsymphony.org. RAILROAD DAYS FESTIVAL APRIL 11-13 Take a step back in time at the annual Railroad Days Festival April 11-13. Enjoy the historic Railroad Museum, Railroad Days Queens’ Pageant and the Bows & Barks Doggie Pageant. Other festivities include a parade, look-a-like contest, 5K run, model train show, old timers reunion, the Railroad Idol Contest and live entertainment Volume 5 • Issue 1
including featured entertainer Mark Chesnutt! Hours are April 11 from 5-11 p.m., April 13 from 3-11 p.m. and April 13 from 8:30 a.m. - midnight. DeQuincy Railroad Museum is located at 400 Lake Charles Avenue, DeQuincy. For more information, call (337) 786-8241. ORIGINAL DOWNTOWN CRAWFISH FESTIVAL APRIL 12-14 There will be over 10,000 pounds of boiled crawfish, the best music, food and fun at one of the largest indoor/outdoor Crawfish Festivals in Southwest Louisiana. Friday, festival gates open at 4 p.m. with vendors and bands until midnight. A downtown street parade rolls Saturday morning at 10 a.m. and will travel through the streets of downtown Lake Charles. The Crawfish Festival Royalty and the mayor of Lake Charles welcoming ceremonies will open the festivities at noon and music and food will be available until midnight. On Sunday, the carnival will be open on the Civic Center grounds until 8 p.m. Admission is $7 or $10 based on time of entry. Kids 10 and under are free. Call 310-0083 for more information. HITTING THE LINKS FOR LITERACY GOLF TOURNAMENT APRIL 13 Join the Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana, Inc. for “Hitting the Links for Literacy” Golf Tournament presented by SONIC on Fri., April 12 at The National Golf Club of LA in Westlake. Complimentary lunch and beverage service begins at 11:30 a.m. and the 4-Man Scramble Shotgun Start begins at 1 p.m. Registration for a 4-man team is $400 and includes a Tiger Shark golf shirt. Extra shirts may be purchased for $25. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. The Literacy Council provides programs for adults, children and families. For more information, call 494-7000 or email info@literacyswla.org.
RELAY FOR LIFE APRIL 13-14 A Relay for Life event to raise awareness and funds for cancer will be held April 13-14 on the McNeese State University campus. The event, sponsored by the McNeese chapter of Colleges Against Cancer in conjunction with the American Cancer Society, runs from 6 p.m. April 13 to 6 a.m. April 14 in the McNeese Quad. Registration is $5 per person and open to individuals as well as teams. All relay proceeds will benefit cancer research. In addition to food and games, a live “Battle of the Bands” will be held from 11 p.m.–3 a.m. in the Quad. For more information, email ariel.caraway@cancer.org or call (337) 4335817, ext. 2.
FLEA FEST APRIL 13-14 Flea Fest is destined to be one of the largest Flea Markets ever held under one roof in SWLA! A bargain hunters dream, it will be held under the Burton Coliseum Livestock Exhibit Building and will be a fun weekend of shopping for antiques, vintage items, hand-crafted gifts, artwork, homegrown produce from farmers, and so much more! There will also be a food court and dining area. For more information, call 337502-8584, email fleafest@hotmail.com, or visit them on Facebook. TJN
LAFITTE’S LADIES ROLLER DERBY APRIL 13 Gulf Coast Roller Girls, Lafitte’s Ladies, take on the Southern Misfits of Mississippi, Sat., April 13 at the Grindhouse, 932 Enterprise Blvd, Suite C. At this event, one lucky fan will have the chance to win the “Hot Seat,” sponsored by Weinie Dogs Hotdog Stand. The fan will be able to sit in comfort on the jam line to catch all the action up close, plus goodies from the team. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the game begins at 7 p.m. Bring your own refreshments and chair to enjoy the event. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 at the door. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.brownpapertickets.com. For more information, contact Desiree Juarez at (337) 853-2834 or visit www.gulfcoastrollergirls.com.
MOVIES UNDER THE STARS APRIL 13 Bring the family, picnic blanket and lawn chairs and enjoy Wreck-It Ralph. Come out early to stake out a good seat and enjoy the spring weather. The movie starts at 7:30 p.m. at Prien Lake Park in Lake Charles. Admission is free! Snacks will be available to purchase on site. Call (337) 7213500 or visit www.cppj.net.
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Sponsored by
To list your event e-mail: lauren@thejambalayanews.com
The
THURSDAY, APRIL 4 • Cory Landry @ Otis & Henry’s, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 6 p.m. • Homer LeJeune & Kajun Kings @ DI’s Cajun Restaurant, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Cypress @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Ivy and Timmy Dugas @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Tribal Seeds @ Luna Live, 10 p.m. • DJ Jose Mata @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 11 p.m. FRIDAY, APRIL 5 • Carl Richardson @ Otis & Henry’s, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 6 p.m. • Don Fontenot & Les Cajuns de la Prairie @ DI’s Cajun Restaurant, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Street Side Jazz Band @ Luna Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. • Platinum Cafe @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • The Onlies @ Dharma, 8 p.m. • Zydecane @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m.
• The Classix @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • Steel Shot @ Yesterday’s, 10 p.m. • Jackson Taylor & The Sinners @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 11 p.m. SATURDAY, APRIL 6 • X-Factor Audition @ Bulber Auditorium, McNeese State University, 3 p.m. • Briggs Brown & Bayou Cajun @ DI’s Cajun Restaurant, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Platinum Cafe @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Large Marge/Downfall Rising @ Luna Live, 8 p.m. • The Coleman Brothers @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • The Classix @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • Krossfyre @ Yesterday’s, 10 p.m.
• DJ Jose Mata @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 11 p.m. SUNDAY, APRIL 7 • Various Artists @ Music for a Cause, Lacassine Community Center, Lacassine, 9 a.m. • David Joel @ Mary’s Lounge, 5 p.m. • Junior Lacrosse & Sumtin Sneaky @ Yesterday’s, 6 p.m. MONDAY, APRIL 8 • Natalie Stovall @ McNeese State University, 11 a.m. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10 • Jenn Grinels @ McNeese State University, 7 p.m. • Zachary Richard @ Central School Auditorium, 7 p.m. • Tim Norris @ Dharma, 8 p.m. • Brad Brinkley & Comfort Zone @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. THURSDAY, APRIL 11 • Deuce Jacko @ Otis & Henry’s, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 6 p.m. • Bernie Alan @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Phillip Glyn @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m.
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FRIDAY, APRIL 12 • Paul Gonsoulin @ Otis & Henry’s, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 6 p.m. • Street Side Jazz Band @ Luna Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. • Danica @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • The Pwells @ Luna Live, 8 p.m. • The Andys/We Are Wombats @ Dharma, 8 p.m. • Down the Phoenix @ My Place Bar, 8 p.m. • Twangsters Union @ Mary’s Lounge, 8 p.m. • T-Broussard & Zydeco Steppers @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Spanky @ Cigar Club, 9 p.m. • Steel Shot @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • Steve Riley & Mamou Playboys @ Yesterday’s, 10 p.m. SATURDAY, APRIL 13 • Various Artists @ Lake Charles Crawfish Festival, Lake Charles Civic Center, 11 a.m. • Various Artists @ Coushatta Crossroads, The Pavilion, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 1 p.m.
Volume 5 • Issue 1
• Wayne Toups @ Delta Event Center, Delta Downs, Vinton, 7 p.m. • Danica @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Derryl Perry @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Luke Wade & No Civilians @ Dharma, 9 p.m. • Steel Shot @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • Wayne Dylan @ Micci’s Piano Bar, 9:30 p.m. • Twangsters Union @ Yesterday’s, 10 p.m. SUNDAY, APRIL 14 • Various Artists @ Lake Charles Crawfish Festival, Lake Charles Civic Center, 11 a.m. • Warren Storm/Willie Tee & Cypress @ Yesterday’s, 6 p.m.
THURSDAY, APRIL 18 • Street Side Jazz Band @ Otis & Henry’s, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 6 p.m. • Horace Trahan @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Black Tie Affair @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. FRIDAY, APRIL 19 • Alex Rosell @ Otis & Henry’s, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 6 p.m. • Street Side Jazz Band @ Luna Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. • ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • When the Word Was Sound/Certain Satellites @ Dharma, 8 p.m. • The Dubonauts @ Luna Live, 8 p.m.
• Charles Mann @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Crossroads @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • Mark Reeves & Twisted X @ Yesterday’s, 10 p.m. SATURDAY, APRIL 20 • ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Pokey LaFargue @ Bulber Auditorium, McNeese State University, 7:30 p.m. • Herban Cat/Brett Chase @ Dharma, 8 p.m. • The Kadillacs @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. TJN
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17 • Marty Monte Band @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m.
APRIL 4, 2013
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Leslie B e four dec rman’s career in ades, an music folksing er, mus d includes stin spans ic teach ts as a booker, e c tival dir oncert promote r, coffeehouse r e notes w ctor, music jou , publicist, fesr r nalist, a it e r, a organiz ation pr rtist manager lbum , trade esident, attorney ent ,a Museum nd president o ertainment f She pre of Southwest the Music fers all Louisian eclectic , and things music a. ally GRAM votes M Recordin Ys as a mem on the g Aca ber o reached at leslie@ demy. She c f the an leslieber man.co be m. first f his e h t I o on and I rsary n he nnive he POSSLQ el plans so emetery on g, e a h w v d t a h n C , r t a t h 8 h t , is veilin ur s8 ne dea ged o at the Jew . At an un ith a re mi s shy of hi eetn o a f r e r b a e re day Texas, m , day ther March 11 overed w iends, e c ld b e , a s t he f r t a few day w 2012, jus Edinburgh the first tim the cou morning o ed stone is mily and f rabbi, r a t n f i a e n c o r i f f e f h o d r t f s o s o e e a di rl e ring tion wly eals family ay, I w line e Cha the ne and a gathe e participa es, and rev ng, birthd POSSLQ’s rn to Lak health dec ver i h i , t v e e u cloth r without eaks eulog before lea iing th able to ret tched Bill’s that, when n r o p t p s s n i a with prayers, stone. Ju ave for a and u l. I had w ears before hing time r s g e d n t e e i e o s l a y t v i l c s e r th re rqu funer for a few lly dimin and ill, Bi wly ca e files past ock on the e. e buque her l n a A y k e u l d r h e e r d t o r slow t my gra branc ttende uren d recitour w cing a ug h ti sic for each a rewell, pla , for remem einstein, pen arles. Tho me about had been go, La about mu s, where, s a I s r a W a s e l, h te ew ye se vate f of flower g to Rabbi ayer for the Four up to wri balaya N mentors, n Lake C iled to tea we met. H ol principa r d r n a e i m a i e p r o l e f n e a t e r a m h t h e J s r e v c t c s n i e i n d s i gh the d li Jew nev er whene Sunday S ol’s volu n o e signe nture, The yes to mus able to ush o h t t throu ners who s ( I d o i h h r i h t e s s a a i c e b v e n n s l w d g new with good s, I’ve bee ers to the stly to emple Si e of the ake Char first Kad of Kush d for o ed the and steppe erations of cultural life o the T ecame on oved to L earance, s along and friend w perform ges, I’ve m eir t , n b p a h e s a dead) tones of ge uch to the odbye and ite and I rs after I m 00. My ap regular, w us heroe usic and n In these p ns during t a c 0 e a o 2 h . a s f s m f c i graves ntributed m hisper a go black gran f a r tea mmer o his en r new of reade ud music ng leave o id h e e t d o f h s d e n n r v s a i had c harles, to wthe polishe the su bstitute, a l could tra sing a sco home ble to appl ay, I’m tak illiam Da C n tt, e l r o u k i a s a k W B a e L n Sco ing roc reh a as a nal that J y o been es. But tod , Maestro o the symt t m s i t a e m g str ne t e plac the si he classroo nducting. Hebrew to , , clari ent, and a les perlifetim usical forc portance re than 30 t h . g e i t n m r o n m o sto Buck that str um e from soon be c histor y o ll classroo vital m er, whose i cted for m harles and roLater ill’s own in st Michael ortly befor a d ht e l p g n u m C h u s t u s d h o i e s a n a i t k n w u d h o B s a n o I s t n c i K n i L l g e ’s c a e t e d i e o l n l n i n i i e s s n h i es Wh f childre t his mu he Temp play t led by v d request ahms qui years xandria wa hose impor n phoni e a ul o pread ou able in t e parts, f h w t d Ale d quart , as Bill ha zart and Br cNeese r n n e a t h ll’s a ,a ld s covered t gh all th eyes ed u o m Mo gs, in M torium. Bi r found o me is gre ur w e o l f h u l t s i a o i , c r B i h i n t ath ud tri ad th n c i l, form en audial of o tance his de rinet and s Squires A yer Eric giant hall and re e with a pe ic, clearly m tot ver the doz u s h la a ducl p e p l c s h a l r t for . cia mu rs o s co ’s R nch horn ving intro e o y m e t e s t i i h n h h e t s t u r on i ng enco at I knew ime, se sam Unive er son, Fre rief but mo ng for the mark d far away i ct tho alert u d ars th e of the t e Lake e n e s . y o u s d young er, gave a b g, apologiz who’d been y a i c c m a i n n , r som efly on th rd, for fo in his min tched him watching h , I l i r h o l e n s i F ed b e h Ku W ner bl e the ev older brot he’d plann I wa mphony, ing hands muls bri hony boa tro a o n t e w h h n I s s s s o i i v a W s ti sy h Ku while rles Symp was Mae erming r the h lly mo ce of ening . absen ed from co g ailment harles wit arts fo purposefu he was list ng before he c Cha tance, he t h l c l a n t C i h i t e d r t l t e a y , a i t n a ins i a k e t h a f thw er, w hat t in La back believed t rchestra pl chestra he’d debili rst wi Kushn and awe t st of r o dden, e who lived f his late fi onist for ys o u e a s y h w r t y l o a a n o emo d. But m our Thos or knew o ipal basso traordin. usly t magin me to e taneo nd to the i preparatio bell asked ew rinc s ex inspir e, through e s Bill kn who was p y Opera, hi ley, the m, a d with in Charles I he Yom i h m h i t t n n e , i s w i th n rt se Sylvia w York Cit ildren – Le ; and Eric, ipatio unity of ehear year, Rabb ” prayer fo hen laid do e r c i t r e a h h t c p re y rit ig t eN One comm form ol Nid ill having b t’s my favo y, so th ily talented the playwr ond wife K “ e Jewish Charles’ Re mple I h ny s ec nar r; Tony, sing t r service, B clarinet. ewish liturg ht. d his ed sympho n e t Lake egation Te , who a n d J i g – u n i f a r p a o n b p p t i a l i n s l r i l r l o c c a t u K i g j con he was B is bat most the musi he self-des d Bill’s las nfrom get it he both h l selection it, and to e, as these a, t hare e co Sinai, rtions of t tive a g sic Marsh ie” who’d s iling, at th t folsin f Aw called, I o u n o p e o t t m s t d y r a a a e a e p re rs ith are nd eag eD “grou At the unv ceptions th dah w ssover Sede ly I was s before th h holidays ol Nidre,” a or a g g e . r s a f s h H Pa year nd at the oldest and with hing Mont tant of Jewi ce about “K tated score d at the d os e ac i r o n v o a n d cert, a each, Bill’s reminisce rting l p n clarity d, and wh he clarinet a l i im for tly a became l h l e n fo i t d g e d i e B r l m n n ’s h d l w o s e o s d lo chil riends, c aske ed me hi ppened, I forget Bil t s we att rendering ayer that u e g youn and old f ing condoork of can’t it ha e loan iful e pr t beaut Nidre,” th r, the Day ppress h e song. As ing it, but I w I could w availabilfamily and accep l su pu th to s g ho pledging t s n i r o s of “Ko Yom Kip ld almost e in e g s h r u could ot sc d ve if she . ers in ment, cou to be hom ily on ne dness in di cal line, an ing. s y e d e c l l s n u e e o l dL kin ily w Atone y longing k with fam coach the vo I aske r ough ded more hat the fam tone m . r o y h Y a t d i w l t e s o b Ne ne rd birthig h H ity if I when I hea of Bill’s tom the H Kushner’s g o n S i eil Bill n unv hold a
, e y b d Goo ro Kushner t Maes
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Volume 5 • Issue 1
identify some revealing action or comment of her father’s that influenced her painting, many fine examples of which hang all around Bill’s home. “The best advice my dad gave me was ‘find what you love and the rest will fall into place,’” she shared later in an email from home. “I knew that had happened for him when he fell in love with music at age 14. He found his call-
ing and his purpose in music. Other than that general, yet heartfelt advice, he left it to me to decide what that love might be.” I read that email in Lake Charles, in another home that houses Lesley Kushner paintings. Staring as I did then, at two vibrant examples of her emotional floral works, I glimpsed Bill Kushner’s living legacy. But we miss you, Maestro.
TJN
by Nicole Shuff Arabie
Forgiveness Frees Your Soul
Early Voting 3/23/2013 – 3/30/2013 (closed on Sun., 3/24 and Fri., 3/29) Registrar of Voters – 337-721-4000 Phone: 337-474-1864 • Email: info@lwv-lc.org Website: www.lwv-lc.org
Volume 5 • Issue 1
When we are unable to show forgiveness to others, it poisons our spirit. There’s always that feeling of something being unresolved in the back of our minds. That is the very reason we should forgive. Look at forgiveness as a lesson that brings our souls closer to God. It will give meaning and validation to our very being and all that we experience— both the good and the bad. “Free yourself from anger, resentment and hate. Forgiveness will free your soul from the prison within yourself.” One of the hardest things about working through forgiveness is allowing ourselves to heal, because that requires confronting our inner shadow and most of us won't allow others to see that deeply. But forgiveness sets you free. Free from the burdens of anger, resentment, disappointments and challenges that may have occurred in your life. Understanding difficult life circumstances is never an easy task and takes a lot of courage. The very first step in forgiveness is acknowledgement. It is done. There’s nothing that will change what happened. You can't go back in time and stop your past self. To forgive doesn’t mean that you will forget, but rather, that you acknowledge what has happened. Somewhere in the chaos that is causing you to question your ability to forgive, there’s a lesson, whether it’s learning to forgive or seeing a bit of yourself in the person you cannot forgive. If this was not something you were supposed to learn, if this was not meant for you, then you and those involved would not be on this path. Forgiveness helps us grow. You are never alone and you are guided from above. The lessons we are given in life aren't given to us and meant for us to fail. That is a choice we make. If you have acknowledged what has happened,
and if you have realized the lesson in all of it, then you should be open to accepting the guidance of the wisdom that comes from God. Your job is learning the steps to forgiveness. The other person’s soul also has a lesson to learn. You have only your soul to tend to, not another’s. Showing forgiveness does not take away from what happened. Forgiveness helps everyone it touches, even the forgiven. The steps to forgiveness are not always easy. Sometimes, we don’t want to forgive. We see no reason for it. What we don’t realize is that the gift of forgiveness is really a gift to ourselves. Showing forgiveness will free your soul and lift your spirit— because that’s what forgiveness does. By not forgiving someone that hurt you deeply, you will always be living in anger and unhappiness, and will be allowing that person to still be in control. Forgiveness is the key to open a new beginning. I want you to imagine for a moment how forgiving others will change how you express and carry yourself. How it will increase the joy in your life. How it will change the lives of those around you. You will begin to feel lighter. Forgiveness gives you permission to enjoy yourself and allows you to move forward freely in your life. "FORGIVENESS removes FEAR, that is why it is such a powerful weapon. It liberates the soul." Nelson Mandela To book a session or other services with Nicole Shuff Arabie, call (337) 540-6573 and leave a message indicating several dates/times that work for you. You will hear back by phone with available dates and times. You can also go to her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/#!/DeclutteringY ourSoul. Both in-person readings or phone/skype readings are available.
TJN
APRIL 4, 2013
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