VOL. 5, NO. 9 / JULY 25, 2013
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Volume 5 • Issue 9
GENERAL 715 Kirby St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 www.louisianajam.com PUBLISHER Phil de Albuquerque phil@louisianajam.com
NEWS EXECUTIVE EDITOR Lauren de Albuquerque lauren@louisianajam.com GENERAL MANAGER Monica Hebert monica@louisianajam.com CONTRIBUTORS Rhonda Babin George Cline Angie Dilmore Dan Ellender Jen Kober Mike Louviere Mike McHugh Roger Miller Mary Louise Ruehr Brandon Shoumaker Karla Tullos
ADVERTISING TRAFFIC MANAGER Senaida Ortiz SALES ASSOCIATES Mitsi Brown Michele Clack Faye Drake sales@louisianajam.com
GRAPHICS ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Burn Rourk ART ASSISTANT Sarah Bercier
contents
On Cover: (from left to right) George Swift, Shannon Spell, Dr. Philip Williams, Mayor Randy Roach, and Adrian Wallace
July 25, 2013 • Volume 5 • Issue 9
COVER STORY 27 The SEED Center REGULARS 8 The Dang Yankee 9 Tips from Tip 12 Adoption Corner 13 Fish Tales 30 Sports Report FEATURES 5 The Dog Days of Summer 7
High Notes
10 The Sabine Lighthouse
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16 Cyberbullying 18 Partners in Education ENTERTAINMENT 12 Jen Kober’s Big Fat Food Column 32 Red Hot Books 34 Family Night at the Movies 35 Society Spice 38 Jambalaya Jam 40 Local Jam 42 Funbolaya
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Danley Romero
BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kay Andrews
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k Bacto
We accept credit cards! JULY 25, 2013
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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.
A Note From Lauren A Change is Gonna Come
As we put the July 25 issue to bed, we are also putting the very last Jambalaya News, as we know it, to bed. But don’t despair, dear readers. The best is yet to come. Publishing The Jam has been an amazing experience. We so appreciate our readers’ loyalty and have listened to all of your comments and suggestions. So, we’ve decided that for our publication to reflect what you’ve been asking for, we’ve taken steps to evolve into one that truly serves and celebrates the good life and the people of Southwest Louisiana. Starting August 1, the new Louisiana Jam will be coming out every week. We’re still going to have your favorite columns and articles-everything you loved about The Jam. But we are also going to concentrate on up-to-the-minute listings and features on entertainment, festivals, Lauren and Phil dining—everything that makes this region the with the first special place that it is. At the end of June, we issue of launched our new website, www.thelouisianaThe Jambalaya jam.com. If you haven’t already checked it out, News please do so—and follow us on Facebook and Twitter! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support, and we look forward to your thoughts and comments. As it was with The Jambalaya News, the Louisiana Jam is our gift to the people of Southwest Louisiana who welcomed two strangers from the North into their hearts and their lives with open arms.
–Lauren de Albuquerque
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TJN
Volume 5 • Issue 9
Volume 5 • Issue 9
JULY 25, 2013
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Last Sunday afternoon, I met a new guy. His name is Bennie. Bennie is a little shy. His past includes women that could have treated him better. My past includes males that were disappointing. We were both tentative about building a relationship because Bennie has another woman in his life that loves him. Then, I threw a tennis ball and it was on! Bennie is a mixed breed rescue dog that my friend Linda Giles fostered and then adopted. I met him because it is summertime and his owner will be traveling without him in the future. When she travels, Bennie will pack a bag (his doggy bag) and come stay with me.
ELVIS HAS LEFT THE BUILDING
Bennie isn’t the only dog that lives with me temporarily. Elvis and his “sister” Cissie were with me last week. Elvis is a tiny ”hunk of burnin’ love” Yorkie. Cissie is a white Chihuahua. They left after only staying one night with me. Their owners needed to make a quick trip to Houston for medical needs. I dog sit. All types of breeds, with all types of owners, who travel for all types of reasons. So, when friends and family are in need of someone to lovingly care for their pets, I usually get a telephone call or an email that asks about my availability. The busiest time of year for me to have canine guests is summer.
WEATHER THAT ISNT FIT FOR MAN OR BEAST
The dog days of summer, that span of about 20 days during July and August when the temperatures soar, were labeled as such during Roman times. Sirius, the Dog Star, is the brightest of the stars in the Canis Major (Large Dog) constellation. Since Sirius was bright and located near the sun, it was
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believed to be responsible for causing hot weather. This extreme weather could be so brutal, that in the 1800s, it was considered a time where dogs grew mad, other animals became weak, and humans could suffer from burning fevers and hysterics. Hysterics can be defined as sudden, uncontrolled excitability. So, during our modern dog days of summer, this is one human who becomes suddenly excited at the promise of doggy visitors. Part of this summers’ hysterics started with a phone call from Barbara Miller in the middle of May. Our conversation went something like this: “Hey Rhonda! It’s Barb. How are you?” she asked with an enthusiasm that’s only used for someone you know. “Good…” I replied trying to figure out who Barbara was since the number didn’t pop up with a name from my contact list. “You don’t recognize my voice? Barbara Miller, Lexi’s mom!” As soon as the first syllable of her pet’s name hit my ears, I knew who it was.
AND THEY CALLED IT PUPPY LOVE
Lexi is a Schnauzer that stayed with me for four consecutive summers after Richard Miller learned about my dog sitting from a coworker. It was a little disappointing for me when Barb’s mom was able to keep her during their annual summer travels for a couple of years because I consider keeping Lexi, or any dog, a vacation in itself. “Lexi’s picture didn’t pop up on my screen. Sorry I didn’t recognize your name,” I apologized to Barb. “That’s okay,” she replied. “Lexi needs her other momma this summer. Can you keep her?” As if she had to ask! When a dog comes to stay with me, they bring their routines and habits with them. It is a vacation from my normal days since I have to incorporate walking, playtime, feeding, and grooming time for the dog into my usual 24-hour routine. I learn about a particular dog and their schedule by asking the owners questions. Lexi’s routine includes long walks, frying two pieces of bacon for her every morning, and having her identify, grab, and bring one of her many stuffed toys to you. This dog is intelligent. Her owners told me that the first time we met. I smiled and nodded in agreement as we do with parents who talk about how beautiful their children are. I soon learned that, even though the Millers are partial to their pet, their dog is smart. Every time Lexi comes to stay with me, I get her a new stuffed toy. It is usually an animal of some kind. This year it was a duck. You give Lexi a verbal command to go to a particular stuffed animal.
All you have to say is, “Lexi, get your duck.” She will go around sniffing her animals and bring you the duck. You throw the duck and the fun ensues. I believe I counted 12 stuffed animals this summer. She knows them all and will bring you the animal you request every time. This summer, Lexi got to learn a real animal’s name. My sister Paula Manuel and her husband Scott were out of town for some of the same days as the Millers. Their miniature Chihuahua Hershey came over to stay, too. I was concerned. Lexi is an only dog. Hershey is active, so active that last year I called her parents and said, “Your dogs middle name must be With Almonds because she is nuts!” They just laughed. They knew. For an afternoon, I kept Lexi and Hershey separated. By that night, they were getting along well enough to play in the same room. By the next day, Lexi had learned to run to Hershey when I said her name. This became part of the stuffed animal game. “Go get Hershey,” I would command Lexi. She would run to Hershey and give her a little nudge and then they would chase each other until they were worn out and panting.
TO ALL THE DOGS I LOVED BEFORE
Cassie is another favorite of mine. She belongs to Gay and Paul Arnold. A well-tempered, mixedbreed dog, Cassie walks all over downtown Lake Charles with me meeting new people. We visited the Charlestown Farmers Market the last time she came to stay with me, and she was a hit with both patrons and vendors. When I returned to the market, dog-less, a few weeks later, it was noted. One of the vendors even asked, “Where is Cassie? When will she be back to visit?” Black Belgian Shepherd Isabella Jolie “Bella” lives next door to me. Bella and I have been “vacationing” together since she was 8 weeks old. Her owners Christina, Linda, and Ronnie Mesh are my friends, neighbors, and landlords. Being dog lovers, they understand the importance of people being able to leave their pets with someone who cares.
ITS A RUFF LIFE
Recently, I met a new neighbor on a morning walk. I had Lexi and Hershey with me. He looked puzzled. A week earlier, he and I had crossed paths. That time, Bella was at my side. I think it got the better of him and he asked, “How many dogs do you own?” “None!” I quickly answered. “I just have a lot of dogs that like to vacation with me.” TJN
Volume 5 • Issue 9
High Notes
Me in fourth grade
By Lauren de Albuquerque
So the poor kids of Southwest Louisiana are preparing to return to school as the summer sizzles on and most of the country is still on vacation. I feel for them. At least when we went back to school the Tuesday after Labor Day, the weather was already changing in Boston. The nights were cooler; the leaves were starting to turn. You just felt it in your bones. It was time to go back to the nuns. And there they were, waiting for us with their rulers and pitch pipes and big rosaries dangling from their waists. And they meant business. The good sisters always kept their pitch pipes in the seemingly bottomless pockets of their habits. At any given moment, that flat round object would appear, which meant an hour of learning hymns for the Children’s Mass at St. Lazarus Church at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday. There were some elderly nuns in the convent who were far too old to teach regular classes. They still had to earn their keep, so Sister Laurian, the principal, had to think up things for them to do. One of their duties was to assist in teaching us to sing. Unfortunately, they all sounded like the nun’s choir in Sister Act before Whoopie Goldberg straightened them out. I guess being able to sing was not a requirement to teach singing at St. Lazarus School. First, we had to do our warm-up exercises. Sister would blow the first note on the pitch pipe, and we’d begin with “Naaaaaa, Nooooo, Nayyyyyyy, Neeeeee” and go further up the scales before launching into some serious hymn singing. I have a very low voice and could never hit the high notes. There are a
lot of high notes in church songs. So, I just went through the motions, mouthing the words and thinking about the bag of Vincent’s Potato Chips that I would buy for a nickel and have with my sandwich (this was in the pre-cafeteria days when we had to bring our lunch and eat at our desks). Occasionally, Sister would shuffle over to each one of us to make sure we were singing, and then I’d have to croak out something. A lot of the hymns were totally draggy and it was like pulling teeth for us to get it right. Luckily, there were a few sopranos who could carry the songs off for the rest of us. Some hymns were cool, though. I always loved “Let There be Peace on Earth.” Still do. The Christmas and Easter songs were a departure from the usual and got us into the holiday spirit. And by the time I made it to junior high, the “guitar masses” became popular, and then everyone wanted to be involved. Remember them? Us kids loved them. Poor Phil wasn’t allowed to attend them, as his parents felt they were “disrespectful to God.” If by any chance, Phil and his siblings had no choice but to attend, they were not allowed to sing. I think if his parents had their way, there would still be Latin Masses. TJN
First day of school with the Barnes Ave. gang. Volume 5 • Issue 9
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Remember Luckenbach!
I’ve always downplayed the stuff you always hear about America being in danger of losing its rich heritage, due to the young generation not being in tune. My thinking was, so what if they don’t remember the name of our country’s first president, William Shakespeare? Then, during a recent visit by my 21-year old nephew, Greg, I came to a rude awakening about how serious an issue this really is. We were driving through the Texas Hill Country, about an hour from San Antonio. We were heading east on U.S. 290, just having left Wheeler’s, the self proclaimed home
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of the “The Best Burger in Fredericksburg,” I made a right onto a narrow two-lane. “Where we going, Uncle Mike?” Greg asked. “I’m on a mission to Luckenbach!” I declared. “ I need to stop and get a T-shirt.” “Cool with me,” Greg answered and immediately returned to whatever he was doing on his Android. His nonchalant answer disturbed me, and so I pressed. “You know about Luckenbach…right?” “Nope. Never heard of it,” he said, not bothering to look up from his device. I almost stopped the truck.
“What do you mean you’ve never heard of Luckenbach!” “Luckenbach, Texas” is, of course, the title of a famous country song by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings. It’s true Texas and an important piece of Americana. Its legacy needs to be preserved in the annals of history along with other great American titles like, “This Land Is Your Land” and the “Hokey Pokey.” A friend who visited Luckenbach back in the day told me that she once saw singer-songwriter Jerry Jeff Walker (of “Mr. Bojangles” fame) passed out there under a picnic table. This kind of stuff has got to be saved for posterity. Greg’s unawareness concerned me, and I hoped that it was not indicative of our nation’s youth as a whole. And so I contacted the world-renowned cowboy think tank, The Billy Bob and Buford Bean Foundation, LLC, to check this out. Surprisingly, they had not done any research whatsoever on
the subject. Thus, I decided to conduct my own survey. First, I asked a couple of college students I met who hail from Austin. They’d never heard of the song, either. “I can’t believe it!” I said to them. “Isn’t that the State Song?” “No,” one of them, a Texas-tall blond girl, answered. “The state song is ‘The Yellow Rose Of Texas.’” “Well, ‘Luckenbach, Texas’ should be it,” I said. Of course, I also believe that “Mardi Gras Mambo” ought to be the Louisiana State Song. One day I’m going to start a campaign about this sort of thing. “Child,” I continued, “do you know who Willie Nelson is?” Thankfully, she did. There is still hope. Next, I contacted my editor, Lauren, to give her a heads-up about this scandalous gap in cultural awareness that seems to be pervading today’s youth. Surely, this is a story that’s screaming for frontpage attention. “Loo-kin-what??” she answered. I was aghast. Lauren may be from Boston, but that is no excuse in my book. I called my brother in Maryland and asked him about it. Same response. Apparently, the legacy of Luckenbach is lost amongst youngsters and Yankees alike. If this trend continues, the responsibility for its preservation would default to men who wear sleeveless denim and guzzle longneck Lone Stars. We can’t let this happen. This is why I’ve decided to take it upon myself to start a movement to preserve the memory of this great song. To that end, I implore everyone who believes in the great things that America stands for—the freedom of speech, of religion, and of passing out in public places—to make a pilgrimage to Luckenbach sometime soon. Buy a T-shirt in the old post office-turned-gift shop and bar. Get there for happy hour and enjoy some back porch pickin’ and reduced prices on longnecks (not just Lone Star). Have a neighborly chat with the three locals. Get lost on the way back. I’m not telling you to do anything that I haven’t done. And while you’re there, be sure to check under the picnic tables and let me know of any Jerry Jeff Walker sightings. TJN Volume 5 • Issue 9
for concrete items, I recommend this operation.
UNIQUE CONCRETE Buying locally is one of the best methods of helping our merchants and in turn, our whole community. I recently discovered a business that I didn’t even know existed in our area. A concrete bench that we have owned for well over 15 years broke in several big pieces the last time I sat on it. The bench was well-used and I wanted a replacement top. So, I went to several places that sold varying amounts of manufactured cement products without a successful result. I was then informed that there was a place here in Lake Charles that actually makes items of that kind. My informer did not know the actual location or address, but told me that it was located on a street off Highway 90 on the north side before Martin GMC. Finding that Armstrong Street met that description, I headed north and almost to the end before it turns into another street. Here, I came upon my target: Hantz & Son, Concrete Specialties. I found exactly what I was looking for, and more. There was a large lot full of bird baths, statues, fountains, steps, tables, benches and much more, all manufactured on-site. I also noticed a unique log-style concrete barbecue set-up. Mr. Hantz informed me that his grandfather had started the business over 60 years ago and had purchased the machinery to make those pieces to assemble into either a barbecue or a fire pit. I was told that the only other business that he was aware of that had that particular equipment was located in New England. If you are looking Volume 5 • Issue 9
THE SQUIRT! Among the advertisements we receive in the mail are the frequent flyers from Bed, Bath and Beyond. The last one included a product that was promoted as a “Water Clock.” This timekeeper was touted as needing no batteries and would run on plain tap water. Since we’re tired of batteries dying in many of the household clocks we have and then not having the correct battery on hand, I was intrigued. This clock was offered at $19.99 but the flyer included a $5 coupon for any product costing more than $15. Not very hard to figure out what I did with the opportunity. After bringing the “Squirt” home and reading the instructions (yes, I know guys don’t read instructions, but I made an exception in this case), I filled it with tap water to the max line. Instantly, the approximately ¾ inch numbers appeared on the face of the 3 ½ inch clock. The ionic transfer of the water to electricity is suppose to last up to six months, and then you simply refill it with fresh tap water. The clock is available in four different colors and is quite cleverly designed. So far, the Squirt has worked perfectly. It also functions as an alarm clock.
evening. I am going to use these ingredients in our shopping survey for this issue. These prices were gathered on Tuesday, July 16 and were posted on the shelf where the product was placed for sale. The stores were: Albertsons, Ryan Street; Market Basket, Nelson Road; Kroger, McNeese Street and Walmart, Nelson Road. JIF Peanut Butter, Creamy, 28-ounce jar: Albertsons, $4.59; Market Basket, $4.87; Kroger, $4.79; Walmart, $3.98. Dannon Nonfat Yogurt, Plain, 32-ounce container: Albertsons, $3.19; Market Basket, $3.67; Kroger, $2.89; Walmart, $2.48. Honey (store brand), 12-ounce container: Albertson, $4.29; Market Basket, $3.67; Kroger, $3.18; Walmart, $3.08. Gerber 2nd Food, Bananas, 4-ounce jar: Albertsons, $.65; Market Basket, $.65; Kroger, $.65; Walmart, $.63. TJN
SUPERMARKET ROUNDUP I received so much positive response from “Mike’s Potato Recipe,” so I thought another recipe might be well received. This one is from my wife. She does not prepare it for me personally, although I probably would enjoy it. This is a frozen treat for dogs. In our summer weather, you’ll really feel good about sharing this goodie with your best pal. The recipe calls for one cup of peanut butter (salt-free if you have it), three cups of plain lowfat yogurt, one tablespoon of honey and a small jar of baby food bananas. Whisk the mixture together and pour into ice trays and allow to freeze. Our dog really relishes this treat and expects to receive one every JULY 25, 2013
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By Mike Louviere There are two lighthouses remaining on the upper Texas coast. There’s the large, majestic lighthouse at Bolivar, made of black-painted iron sheets and accompanied by pristine keepers’ houses. It is privately owned and maintained. On the Louisiana side of the Sabine Pass is the Sabine Pass Lighthouse. Made of brick, it is only about a third of the height of the Bolivar Lighthouse. Painted white with two horizontal wide black stripes and a base of eight buttresses that extend out from the base, it looks like a short rocket poised for takeoff. In 1849, shortly after the Republic of Texas became the State of Texas, Congress appropriated $7,500 for the construction of this lighthouse. But Naval Commander Henry A. Adams made a horseback survey of the Sabine Pass area and determined that there was no need for a lighthouse, reporting that the coast was not dangerous and there was only a minimum of shipping through the Pass. As a result of his report, $116.80 was pulled from the allotted amount (probably for his expenses), and the rest was returned to the surplus fund. Citizens of the area disagreed with the report. In 1853, after another surveyor’s report, $30,000 was allotted to build “a first class lighthouse at the mouth of the Sabine River.” The surveyor suggested a site on the east side of the river. The location was part of the large mili-
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tary reservation that had been established in 1838 by the federal government when the area was part of the western frontier of the United States. Construction began in 1855. By 1857, the 80-foot brick tower and an adjacent wooden keeper’s house were built. The marshland was so soft that the foundation consisted of closely spaced wooden pilings driven into the ground, and eight buttresses extended out from the base of the tower to distribute the weight. A Fresnel lens was installed in the lantern room at the top. The lens was made of glass; each lens had several different thicknesses on each surface to give a bright, fixed white light. The intensity could be varied by a flash provided by vertical elements that rotated around the fixed lens. Both the tower and the house were painted white. Benjamin F. Granger was hired as the first keeper. On August 16, 1861, the lighthouse was darkened and remained out of service throughout the War Between the States. The keeper at that time was Gowen Plummer, originally from Maine and a Union loyalist. After Confederates stole the oil at the lighthouse, Plummer
took his wife and children aboard one of Admiral Farragut’s ships and returned to Maine. Before he left, he donated his livestock, three houses, all of his fencing, and his firewood to the Union Soldiers. The Union soldiers who were part of the blockading forces took over the lighthouse and used it to spy on the construction of the Confederate Fort Griffin on the west bank of the river. Early on the morning of April 16, 1863, Confederate soldiers hid at the lighthouse and waited for that morning’s party of spies to arrive. Three soldiers surrendered, but others resisted. As a result of the gunfire, four Union soldiers and one Confederate were killed. The Battle of Sabine Pass was fought five months later. Even with all the cannon fire in the proximity of the lighthouse, it survived remarkably well and on December 23, 1865, after the lens was replaced (having been removed and shipped to New York for safety during
the war), the lighthouse was returned to service. In 1886, a fierce hurricane struck Sabine Pass. Keeper Gustav Hummeland, his lady friend, and assistant keeper Henry Plummer and his wife sought refuge in the lighthouse due to the rising water. That, and the resulting wind tore apart the dwellings. Water at the station rose to 20 feet, and spray reached a window 50 feet up the tower. By the summer of 1887, a 40by-48-foot dwelling was built on pilings 10 feet above the marsh and an elevated walkway connected the house to the tower. In addition, a 12,250 gallon cistern and a boathouse were added just north of the dwellings. An oil house was built in 1892 and six years later, a 1,350 foot long cypress boardwalk was built from the tower to the main channel west of the lighthouse. The hurricane of August 1915 caused such vibrations that the clock mechanism that revolved the flasher for the lens quit working and the keepers, William B. Thompson and his assistant, Charles C. Sapp were forced to rotate the light panels by hand. The station’s wharf, walkways, and outbuildings were destroyed. Near the end of the 19th century, jetties had been built at the mouth of the river to improve access to inland ports. By 1921, the jetties extended four miles out into the Gulf. When a light and fog bell
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were installed on the end of the jetties in 1924, the lighthouse became less important. There was some discussion about abandoning it, but it was decided that it made a good base for attending the jetty light. Electricity and a radio beacon were installed at the station in 1929, and three years later, two ten-foot wide horizontal bands were painted on the tower to make it more visible on hazy days. By 1952, technology had made the lighthouse obsolete and on May 21 of that year, its light was extinguished for the last time. The federal government gave the property to the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission, but the station was not used very much and was returned to the General Services Administration. In 1971. the property was given to the Lamar State College of Technology, (now Lamar University) for use as a research and teaching complex. The expense of converting and using the station was too great for the college and after two years, they returned the property to the federal government. In 1974, vandals removed the copper sheathing from the tower and exposed the interior to the elements. Two years later, a marsh fire destroyed the remaining outbuildings, along with the boathouse and most of the boardwalks. Only the brick tower and the oil house survived. The State of Louisiana decided to sell the property at public auction. It was purchased by a group of investors who planned to develop a yacht basin or a restaurant at the site. Their plans never developed and they eventually gave the property to the Cameron Preservation Alliance in 2001. Hurricanes Rita and Ike have hindered plans for the restorative efforts of the Alliance, but with continued vision and persistence and maybe a grant or two, perhaps one day, the old lighthouse may be restored. TJN Volume 5 • Issue 9
Sabine Pass Lighthouse Facts Cheniere Energy has built a four-mile road to the lighthouse making is accessible by land for the first time; however, there is still a small bayou to cross to access it.
In 2009, the Sabine Pass Lighthouse was one of the five Gulf Coast lighthouses commemorated in a postage stamp series.
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A Night to Eat Ember This week in my world of excessive eating was definitely one of my top five best of all time. Susan had an art show opening at Art Interest, so we had the whole week in town to indulge in some of my favorite local eateries. After a victorious night of mingling, chatting and philosophizing about Susan's intricate pen and ink creations, we were famished. We had friends in for the opening from Houston, and we wanted to take them out for a delicious dinner at a place with great atmosphere. Someplace swank, hip, stylish. But we weren't through at the gallery until 10 p.m. Where could we go? Waffle House crossed my mind, but before I had a chance to voice it, my wise better half piped up, "Why don't we try Ember at L'Auberge? I think it's open til midnight. And I hear they
have amazing foie gras." That was it. The magic words. Foie Gras. I was in. Cost be damned--tonight we came to eat! We walked in to the lodgeinspired steakhouse and sat by the fire, sipping cocktails and speaking of politics. And by that I mean gulping a Diet Coke and gossiping about a girl at the bar who was wearing half a dress. Ember smells amazing and my mouth is practically watering as our waiter John hands us the menu. My eye immediately goes to the Chilled Seafood Tower. Crab legs, lobster, shrimp, oysters, jumbo lump crab meat, all served on a tower of ice and cocktail sauce. Yes, please. I followed it with an eight-ounce filet topped with foie gras and crawfish mac n cheese on the side. Mama did not come here to play.
Featured JULY 25, 2013
TJN
Are you looking to add a character to your life? This fellow just might fit the bill! Coming to us as a senior (he’s around eight years old), he is clearly Shih Tzu; the Poodle part is a best guess. His "before" pics would amaze anyone--proof that he has had a rough road so far. The vet noted that he has an old eye injury that was not treated and "dry eye syndrome" in his functional eye. But he will need only artificial tears (rather than a prescription) for his good eye. Warren does not consider himself to have a disability! He is fully functional even though his sight is somewhat impaired. Doing well with house by training, he is a true cuddle bug and once his hair grows out enough to be groomed,
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The seafood tower was amazing. I gave the raw oysters to Susan and dug into the mountain of ginormous shrimp, gargantuan crab legs and succulent lobster. It was a meal in itself. But I was just getting started. The filet was seasoned to perfection, cooked a perfect medium rare and topped off with one finely charred piece of foie gras that made the whole thing go down like butter. It was so rich and so fantastically filling that I almost forgot about my crawfish mac n cheese. I took a bite, decided I needed to cheese it up once I got it home and asked John to wrap it up for me. "And bring the dessert menu," I added. John could see his tip growing with my belly. "Which one's better?" I asked John, "The key lime or the creme brulee?" "Creme brulee," he said without hesitation. "Creme brulee it is then. And two spoons!" A sweet ending was just what I was in the mood for and this one did not disappoint. The smooth vanilla bean custard had a sugary crystal coating on top that came to our table in a flaming spectacle of yumminess. It was a heavenly end to a truly divine meal. I will admit, it was a bit pricey. But I am still thinking about it today. And if you are gonna blow money at the casino, I suggest you forget the roulette table and bet on Ember. #Winning he will be one handsome dude! He is heartworm negative and is ready for his forever person to find him any time now! He would possibly be open to a temporary foster home if details could be worked out. For more info, call or email. Vet check and home visit required along with a lifelong commitment to heartworm prevention. Warren's adoption fee is $150 (and he is worth every penny!) For more information, call LAPAW Rescue and TNR at (337) 478-7492 or go to www.lapaw.org/. Hurry, Warren is waiting! We are searching for additional foster homes so that we can help save more pets. Crates, food and bedding are provided-- you provide the TLC! TJN Volume 5 • Issue 9
A Guide’s Holiday “No more teachers, no more books, no more students’ dirty looks,” I would sing to myself as summer school let out and I escaped from the rigors of wiping out ignorance. It was time for a “Guide’s Holiday.” What the heck is that, you ask? Well, I’m going to share that epiphany. Still humming my song, I’d hop in my pre-loaded Jeep, grab my Golden Retriever Prez (“the wonder dog” ) and head for “de camp.” The camp was Lacoste Lodge, 6.2 miles west of the “Cajun Riviera” (Holly Beach). To the south was the just-waiting-for-a-hurricane Gulf and to the north, the pastoral Four Mile Square marsh. Sitting atop the chenier between the two was Rayme’ Boudreaux’s ole CajunStyle farm house. Renovated now with a fireplace, west side addition, great room, and remodeled bedrooms, it was now Dr. Alan Lacoste’s hunting/fishing lodge. I’d clang across the cattle guard and park in front. Prez would leap through his open Jeep window and off to the beach he’d head, stopping only to look both ways at La. Hwy. 82. Then he’d hit the beach and surf. I’d soon be joining him with rod, reel, net, and tackle box in hand. But first, a camp check-out tour. I’d step into the screened-in porch, unlock the camp door and enter the open dining area. The AC had been set on 80 degrees so it was semi-cool. And Volume 5 • Issue 9
marvelously quiet. No happy hunters, no fathers or daughters or nurses or guides or students or teachers or supervisors or principals or police jurors or constituents--just “moi.” I’d let that silence pervade me until it was time to stow my gear and join Prez on the beach for some surf-fishing. It was my turn to look both ways and cross to the Gulf. If I was lucky, and I have been my whole life, it would have been hot and dry coming into August and the light surf would be a white-capped emerald. Prez’s tail would already be up and wagging like a wind-whipped aerial, working the shallows, trying to catch ever-elusive fish. Just two years before, I had been standing waist-deep just behind the granite barrier rocks and fishing beyond their edge in the drop-off. The water was perfect, the seas calm, the specs hitting the bait fish. I could almost see my toes. Fish were schooling around me in the hundreds and I caught (dramatic pause) nothing. In disgust, I had started back down the beach when Prez came prancing up, a fish in his mouth. I stopped, he came around my left side and sat. I said, “ Drop,” and the fish plopped into my hand. It was a four-plus-pound spec, freshly caught, with only the spine’s connection to the neck snapped. Prez had caught supper. I filleted it and baked it
with Tony’s, butter and Rotel tomatoes. I ate my half; Prez dined on his. With that reverie behind me, Prez and I trooped back to the lodge. After supper that night, I turned the AC on perma-frost and lit the fireplace, sprawled out on the couch, and read myself to sleep with Prez curled up on his cedar-filled burlap bed. By five o’clock in the morning I was up drinking coffee, eating Grand Butter Flake biscuits with real butter and homemade mayhaw jelly. Prez ate the Hartz Mountain Jerky Treats my fellow guide, Ray Thibodeaux, liked so much. Near daybreak, my 16-foot Duracraft mudboat, with its center-mounted 25-horsepower air cooled Onan, churned khaki water down Lacoste Bayou (ditch) into the canal that surrounds Four Mile Square. It’s called that because the canal runs four miles by four miles by four miles by four miles in a square (chortle). The snowy egrets, roseate spoonbills, and blue herons would flush along the trail accompanied by an occasional basking alligator, oblivious to the coming alligator harvest season. Brown/black mottled ducks would take wing from out of the roseaux cane-edged levee as I
plowed north. I would pick up speed as the canal deepened near the Sabine Reserve Southern Canal. Prez was doing the usual dog on the bow of the boat, ears flapping in the breeze, resembling a Golden Retriever Hernando DeSoto, eager to explore the expanse. Once in the Sabine Canal, the water would slide to khaki as the blackish clear water would flow from cuts running out of the reserve’s marsh. I’d catch red fish, bass, brim, or white perch depending on what I used, and the water conditions. Like surf fishing, I used the whole tackle box: plastic worms, popping bugs, Rapalas, Mr. Champs, silver spoons, grubs, spinners, baits in every color of the rainbow, not counting the desperation shrimp-teasered bass hook. By the time it got hot, I would have caught enough to eat for supper and if not, there was still the surf. I never caught a lot surf-fishing like Attorney “Extraordinaire” Roger Burgess or Dr. “Skeeter” Berry did during duck season, but Prez and I would have plenty to eat for two nights. If I was truly blessed, we’d would be on the porch and catch a summer thunder storm clawing its way ashore, a thunder screaming panther exposing its lightning talons as the rain dug in. Then it would cool. And Prez would golden curl up on the pine flooring, I would lay back, my head on the couch’s arm rest, and listen to the rain roof patter me to sleep. And I would sleep the sleep that refreshes. TJN
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American Cancer Society’s Candles & Cocktails July 27 The American Cancer Society’s Candles and Cocktails – “A Birthday Under the Big Top” – is expected to be attended by a large crowd on July 27, and a few tickets are still available. The social event is an annual fundraiser hosted by the Isle of Capri Casino Hotel to raise dollars toward the fight against cancer. This year’s event will feature a magnificent dinner prepared by the chef at the Isle of Capri, a gourmet funnel cake station for those with a sweet tooth, a silent and live auction and other “Big Top” fun. Local sounds of the “Street Side Jazz Band” will entertain the crowd during dinner. The night will conclude with dancing and fun with the returning sounds of “Bottoms Up” – a party cover band from the Baton Rouge area.
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Theresa Needham will serve as the EMCEE for the evening, and the event auctioneer, Philip de Albuquerque will be no stranger to the “Big Top” scene. Event sponsors include the Isle of Capri Casino Hotel, Hertz Investments, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana, and First Federal Bank of Louisiana. Along with the exciting event, the American Cancer Society is also celebrating 100 years as a life-saving organization. “The progress we’ve helped make in the past 100 years is remarkable,” said Katie McCarty, area director for the American Cancer Society. “We believe we’ve done more than any other cancerfighting organization on the planet, as we’re leading the way to transform cancer from deadly to treatable and from treatable to preventable,” said McCarty. TJN
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It’s that time of year! The “party’s over” and it’s time to get back to the business of getting an education. Unfortunately, going back to school can present its own set of problems—and bullying is one of them. Cyberbullying takes bullying a leap forward—with sometimes tragic consequences. Vermont native Ryan Halligan, 13, killed himself in 2004. Bullied since the fifth grade by a particular classmate, the abuse escalated to cyberbullying. Ryan couldn’t take it any longer. Jessica Logan texted a nude photo of herself to her boyfriend. When they broke up, he began circulating the photo to everyone at her school. The Ohio teen was cruelly harassed by other girls and began skipping school. Her mother found her body hanging in her closet. She was 17.
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What is Cyberbullying? Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place using electronic technology such as cell phones, computers, and tablets as well as communication tools including social media sites, text messages, chat, and websites. Examples of cyberbullying include hurtful text messages or emails, rumors sent by email or posted on social networking sites, and embarrassing pictures, videos, websites, or fake profiles. Children who are being cyberbullied are often bullied in person as well. But it is a lot more difficult to get away from cyberbullying, as it can happen 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and reach a child even when he or she is alone. Hurtful messages and images can be posted anonymously and distributed quickly to a very wide audience, and it can be difficult and sometimes impossible
to trace the source. Even worse, deleting inappropriate or harassing messages, texts, and pictures is extremely difficult after they have been posted or sent.
Effects of Cycberbullying Cell phones and computers themselves are not to blame for cyberbullying. Social media sites can be used for positive activities, such as connecting with friends and family, helping with schoolwork, and for entertainment. But these tools can also be used to hurt others. Whether done in person or through technology, the effects of bullying are similar. Kids who are cyberbullied are more likely to: • Use alcohol and drugs • Skip school • Experience in-person bullying • Be unwilling to attend school • Receive poor grades
• Have lower self-esteem • Have more health problems Research on cyberbullying is growing. However, because children’s use of technology changes so rapidly, it is difficult to design surveys that accurately capture trends. But, the 2011 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey finds that 16 percent of high school students (grades 9-12) were electronically bullied in the past year. You and your children can prevent cyberbullying. Together, you can explore safe ways to use technology.
Be Aware of What Your Kids are Doing Online Talk with your kids about cyberbullying and other online issues regularly. Be involved as much as you can. • Know the sites your kids visit and their online activities. Ask where they’re going, what they’re doing, and who they’re doing it with. • Tell them that as a responsible parent, you may review their online communications if you think there is reason for concern. Installing parental control filtering
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software or monitoring programs are one option for monitoring your child’s online behavior, but do not rely solely on these tools. • Find out what they do online and in texts. Learn about the sites they like. Try out the devices they use. • Ask for their passwords, but tell them you’ll only use them in case of emergency. • Ask to “friend” or “follow” your kids on social media sites or ask another trusted adult to do so. • Encourage your kids to tell you immediately if they, or someone they know, is being cyberbullied. Explain that you will not take away their computers or cell phones if they confide in you about a problem they are having.
Establish Rules about Technology Use Establish rules about appropriate use of computers, cell phones, and other technology. For example, be clear about what sites they can
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visit and what they are permitted to do when they’re online. Help them be smart about what they post or say. Tell them not to share anything that could hurt or embarrass themselves or others. Once something is posted, they have no control over who will forward it. Encourage kids to think about who they want to see the information and pictures they post. Complete strangers? Real friends only? Friends of friends? Think about how people who aren’t friends could use it. Tell them to keep their passwords safe and not share them with anyone, even a “best” friend. Sharing passwords can compromise their control over their online identities and activities.
Report Cyberbullying When cyberbullying occurs, it is important to document and report the behavior so it can be addressed. • Don’t respond to and don’t forward cyberbullying messages.
• Keep evidence of cyberbullying. Record the dates, times, and descriptions of instances when it has occurred. Save and print screenshots, emails, and text messages, and use this evidence to report cyberbullying to web and cell phone service providers. • Block the person who is cyberbullying.
Report Cyberbullying to Online Service Providers Cyberbullying often violates the terms of service established by social media sites and Internet service providers. • Review their terms and conditions or rights and responsibilities sections. These describe content that is or is not appropriate. • Visit social media safety centers to learn how to block users and change settings to control who can contact you. • Report cyberbullying to the social media site so they can take action against users abusing the
terms of service.
Report Cyberbullying to Law Enforcement Cyberbullying becomes a crime and should be reported to law enforcement if it included the following: • Threats of violence • Child pornography or sending sexually explicit messages or photos • Taking a photo or video of someone in a place where he or she would expect privacy • Stalking and hate crimes
Report Cyberbullying to Schools Cyberbullying can create a disruptive environment at school and is often related to in-person bullying. The school can use the information to help inform prevention and response strategies. In the state of Louisiana, schools are required to address cyberbullying in their antibullying policy. TJN
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Partners in Education: A Step Towards the Future Our children deserve the best education and the best opportunities to plan for that future. That’s why the Partners in Education program is so important. A project of the Calcasieu Parish School Board, it creates a partnership between a business and a school by enriching the educational process with the company’s direct involvement. The goal is to improve education with the assistance of the private sector. The program, established in 1988 as a collaborative project between the CPSB and the Chamber/Southwest Louisiana, is an opportunity for the school system and the business sector to share its resources, time, talent and expertise. It connects schools and businesses to improve student achievement and foster lifelong learning for the students. The following businesses have partnered with schools in Calcasieu Parish:
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S. P. Arnett Middle Entergy
J. D. Clifton Head Start Joe Miller, Sr.
Barbe Elementary Excel Paralubes, First Baptist Church Lake Charles, Women's Shelter
College Oaks Elementary Albertsons, Cameron State Bank, Cancun Restaurant, Clark's Good Eats, Coyote Blues, First Federal Bank, First National Bank, Lake Charles Toyota, McAlister's Deli, McDonald's Restaurant, Rain CII Carbon, Ryan's Restaurant, Sam Hebert Financial Group, and School Aids
Barbe High GRACE Davison Catalysts Bell City High: Clean Fuel USA, Painting with a Twist, Sweetlake Land & Oil Brentwood Elementary Northrup Grumman, O'Charley's Restaurant, and State Farm Insurance Calcasieu Alternative School CITGO J. D. Clifton Elementary Southwest Louisiana Health Center, United Christian Fellowship Ministries, Westlake Group
Combre-Fondel Elementary Combre Funeral Home, Don Harris State Farm, Health Systems 2000, Inc., Leonard C. Breda III, APDC, Simien Law Firm, Todd Clemons & Associates, J. Walker & Associates, and Whitney National Bank in Westlake T. S. Cooley Elementary Magnet Lyondell Basell and Nissan of Lake Charles
Cypress Cove Elementary Cameron Communications, First National Bank of Sulphur, Global Industries, Kajun Monograms, Neighborhood Mini Storage, and Stine Lumber Co DeQuincy Primary Brookshire Bros., City Savings Bank, DeQuincy Masonic Lodge, and DeQuincy Memorial Hospital DeQuincy Elementary Kenny's Katfish Depot, Wise Ideas Printing and Promotions DeQuincy Middle School City Savings Bank, Christensen Funeral Home, Kellogg Electric, The Pentecostal Church of DeQuincy, and Perkins Pharmacy DeQuincy High Brookshire Bros., City Savings Bank, Popeye's, and Temple Inland
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Dolby Elementary Home Furniture, McDonald's, Saundra Bridges Reality, and Walgreens
Henry Heights Elementary Alcoa Primary Metals, Jeff Davis Bank, Kiwanis of Lake CharlesMcDonald's, Raising Canes, and Texas Roadhouse
Fairview Elementary Lake Charles Toyota and Walmart Super Center
Holy Family Catholic Women's and Children's Hospital
Frasch Elementary Carl Vincent State Farm Insurance, Innovative Expressions, and Turner Industries, LLC.
Immaculate Conception Catholic School Navarra's Jewelry & Gifts, Open Air MRI, and Port Printing
Gillis Elementary 7-0 Electric LLC., City Savings Bank, Custom Metal Fabricators, Gillis Grocery & Meat Market, Melanie Perry State Farm Insurance, Melanson Equipment, Misti Waters Nursery, Myrtis Mueller Realty, The Drug Store, The Soileau Family, and Webtronics
Iowa High Farmers Rice Mill, Jeff Davis Bank, and McDonald's
Hamilton Christian Academy ReCon Engineering W. T. Henning Elementary Certainteed Corporation, Checkers, Jeff Davis Bank, Kajun Monograms, and SteaMatic of SWLA
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Jake Drost Head Start Flavin Realty John J. Johnson Elementary Cox, Cox, Filo, & Camel Law Firm, J & J Exterminating Co., Inc., and Suddenlink M. J. Kaufman Elementary Chris Gaudet State Farm Agency, Gulf Coast Carpets & decorating Center, Sam's Club and Suddenlink John F. Kennedy Elementary Black Heritage Festival, King's
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Funeral Home, and Louisiana Radio Communication
Ray D. Molo Middle Magnet New Beginnings
E. K. Key Elementary CITGO
Moss Bluff Elementary Beauregard Electric, Brandon Bellon Development, Coca Cola, Jeff Davis Bank, Melanie Perry State Farm Insurance, Meyer's and Associates, Richey's 3D Foam Insulation, Service Tire & Auto of Moss Bluff, and Sonic Drive-In
LaGrange High Aeroframe, ConocoPhillips, and PPG Alonzo LeBlanc Middle D&L Diesel Services, Southern Ionics, and Tarver Ford Lebleu Settlement Elementary Central Crude, Inc./LA Tank, Custom Blinds and Farmer's Rice Mill W. W. Lewis Middle School Carl Vincent State Farm Insurance Agency, Chemical Waste Management, Inc., and City Savings Bank Maplewood Elementary & Middle School Access of Louisiana Federal Credit Union, Billy Navarre Chevrolet, Ellender Portable Buildings, Innovative Expressions, Marilyn's Flowers & Catering, Mathnasium, Rick Fitts State Farm Insurance, Walgreens, and Westlake Chemical
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Moss Bluff Middle Dwight Law Firm and Firestone Polymers, Inc. A. A. Nelson Elementary Jeff Davis Bank, Jim Mitchell State Farm Insurance, Outback Steakhouse, Papa Murphy's Pizza, Stine Lumber, Walgreens Drug Store, and Women & Children's Hospital Oak Park Elementary Agave Tamale, CenterPoint Energy, Lake Charles Copy, Nissan of Lake Charles, and Starbucks Oak Park Middle Trunkline LNG and Whitney Bank Our Lady Queen of Heaven PPG Industries
Our Lady's School CertainTeed Corporation, City Savings Bank, Innovative Expressions, Shaw, Southern Engraving, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital
Contractors, Cintas Corporation, Home Furniture, National Networks, Nina P's, Lake Charles American Press, Primerica Financial Services, Scotty Mathews Insurance Agency, Targa Midstream Services, and Walmart
Pearl Watson Elementary Ned Brothers Clothing and Schlesingers Maintenance Service Positive Connections: Gallagher Risk Management Services, Inc.
St. Louis High School Bolton Ford, Christus St. Patrick Hospital Marketing Dept., and The Children's Clinic
Prien Lake Elementary Century 21 Bessette Realty, ChickFil-A Prien Lake Mall, Gill Animal Hospital, and Trunkline LNG
St. Margaret School A Daisy A Day, C J Ardoin II, DDS, Data Systems, Inc., Ken Conners Service Tire & Auto
Reynaud Middle First Federal Bank of Louisiana, Mr. T's Miracle Hand Car Wash & Detail Service, New Life Church International, Nissan of Lake Charles, and The Dwelling Place
Starks High Ladies Auxilliary Post 4759, Nichols Dry Goods, Starks VFW Post 4759, White Way Enterprises
Sacred Heart Health Systems 2000, Inc. Sam Houston High PPG Industries St. John Elementary Albertson's Country Club Road, AK Newlin, Calcasieu Mechanical
Sulphur High CITGO Sulphur High 9th CITGO R. W. Vincent Elementary Air Liquide, American Construction & Electric, A-Total Tee, Business Health Partners, Cameron State Bank, Chris
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Duncan Agency, Inc., Innovative Expressions, Jeff Davis Bank, and Lake Area Office Products Vincent Settlement Elementary Brookshire Bros., Cameron Communications, Iberia Bank, Rain CII Carbon, Targa Midstream Services, and Westlake Group Vinton Elementary Georgia Gulf Corporation Vinton Middle Ronnie Johns State Farm Insurance Vinton High PPG Industries Washington Marion Magnet High Louisiana Pigment and Zion Tabernacle Baptist Church T. H. Watkins Elementary Jeff Davis Bank, King Enterprises, and Levingston Engineers J. I. Watson Middle: Burger King Restaurant, Christine Bailey State Farm Insurance, A Daisy a Day, Farmer's Rice Mill,
Jim Bill Disposal, LLC. and Stine Lumber Co. S. J. Welsh Middle Albertson's, Coca Cola Bottling Co., Crawford Orthodontics, Dominos Pizza, Flavin Realty, Home Depot, Iberia Bank, J & J Exterminating Co., Inc., Mathnasium, and Sonic Drive-In Western Heights Elementary Sasol North America, Inc. Westlake High Air Products, Bobby LeTard Shelter Insurance, Confer-Creel Foundation, ConocoPhillips, Custom Metal Fabricators, Iberia Bank, and King Architects Westwood Elementary Sasol North America, Inc. F. K. White Middle City Savings Bank, Prudential Elite Realtors, and Putt Putt Golf Ralph Wilson Elementary Capital One, Dave McCarty Insurance, Georgie Porgie Barber & Beauty Salon, nd Master Clean Car Wash TJN
Steve Jordan, owner of LA Tank and Central Crude, shown with First Lady Supriya Jindal; Wayne Savoy, Superintendant of Schools; Jill Portie, Principal; and the staff of LeBleu Settlement Elementary.
LA Tank and Central Crude is proud to partner with LeBleu Settlement Elementary. Mr. Jordan was invited to attend the Teacher Appreciation Luncheon along with Louisiana’s First Lady, Supriya Jindal, who spoke at the luncheon and read to the kindergarten class.
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CITGO Earth Day Poster Contest Teaches Students about Environmental Stewardship CITGO Lake Charles hosted the 7th annual Earth Day Poster Contest in mid-April at E.K. Key Elementary School where winning students were awarded gift cards and an ice cream party for the entire school. To promote environmental awareness and to celebrate Earth Day, the CITGO Environmental Protection Department sponsors a poster contest each year for the students at E.K. Key (kindergarten through 5th grade) to express their knowledge and awareness of the environment through an imaginative art display. CITGO Lake Charles Manager Environmental Protection Phyllis Holifield said environmental stewardship is a CITGO core value that surpasses generations. “CITGO is excited to partner with E.K. Key Elementary every year to promote Environmental Stewardship. Teaching children the value of taking care of our environment goes beyond the classroom - it makes a difference on the Earth throughout genera-
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tions,” Holifield said. Earth Day themes at E.K. Key vary throughout the years and this year’s theme was, "Nature’s Recyclers.” The students were given two weeks to creatively construct their
posters. Once completed, the posters were given to a CITGO committee for judging and choosing a 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winner for each grade level. The winners were announced by CITGO employees on April 18. Furthermore, in alignment with the corporation's values of environmental stewardship, endorsed by the parent company Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA), CITGO continues to work with E.K. Key Elementary on beautification projects for the school. This year, CITGO is donating funds for additional playground equipment. Last year, the CITGO Environmental Protection Department sponsored a project to plant camellias, daylilies and other plants to line the circular drive. In previous years, CITGO and its employees have donated a bench that was built around an oak tree on the E.K. Key playground; planted 36 rose bushes and a magnolia tree in front of the school; and contributed funds towards playground equipment. TJN
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Magnolia LNG Receives Overwhelming Support for its Lake Charles Project Magnolia LNG recently received wide support for its planned Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Project at a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) public scoping meeting recently held in Lake Charles. The Magnolia facility will be located on Port of Lake Charles property along the Industrial Canal. In a letter filed with FERC, U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu expressed her support for the project. “This project is already strongly supported by the community and its leaders. Magnolia LNG has and will continue to provide a net benefit to this community. I am proud to add my support to this project and stand ready to assist in seeing the project completed.” The public scoping meeting is in connection with the preparation of an environmental impact study (EIS) performed by FERC to determine whether the project is in the public convenience and necessity. The EIS will take into consideration the project’s impacts as it relates to geology, wetlands, water resources, cultural resources, air quality, noise, endangered species and public safety, amongst others. “We’ve been overwhelmed by the sincere support already received from the local community, its leadership, as well as state and federal legislators,” said Ernie Megginson, vice president of project development for Magnolia LNG. Referring to Louisiana’s existing pipeline infrastructure and economic development incentives, U.S. Representative Charles Boustany said in a letter filed with FERC, “These valuable and significant advantages should be capitalized on now, and I respectfully request every proper consideration be provided to Magnolia LNG’s application.” The Magnolia LNG Project has Volume 5 • Issue 9
received support from the entire Southwest Louisiana state legislative delegation including State Senators Ronnie Johns and Dan Morrish, Speaker of the House Chuck Kleckley and State Representatives Mike Danahay, A.B. Franklin, Brett Geymann and John E. Guinn. Other governmental and business agencies are piling on support for the project. These include the Port of Lake Charles, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, City of Lake Charles, City of Sulphur, City of DeQuincy, Calcasieu Parish District Attorney, Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance and Lake Charles Pilots Association. “Magnolia anticipates an initial $2.2 billion capital investment and estimates that the project will generate approximately 1,000 construction jobs, 45 high-paying permanent jobs and 175 additional indirect jobs,” said Mayor Randy Roach of the City of Lake Charles in a letter filed with FERC. “Based on these estimates it appears that this project will provide significant short- and long-term economic benefits to Southwest Louisiana.” Magnolia LNG is designed to be a mid-scale LNG project, with four gas liquefaction units, each producing 2 million tons per annum at maximum capacity. Company officials anticipate receiving final federal and state permitting in 2014, commencement of construction in 2015, and initial start-up of operations near the final quarter of 2017. Magnolia LNG has received approval from the U.S. Department of Energy to export product to Free-Trade Agreement countries. For more information on Magnolia LNG or to view letters of support filed with FERC, visit www.magnolialng.com. TJN
Magnolia LNG has submitted project information, to build, own, and operate an LNG project in the Port of Lake Charles, Louisiana, in accordance with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) mandatory pre-filing procedures.
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Industries’ Role in Everyday Products Industries are a familiar part of the landscape here. They’ve been part of Southwest Louisiana for more than 60 years, employing thousands of people, and giving this economy a boost. But, what are they doing inside all of those pipes and towers? Obviously, a few facilities are making fuel, and some people know that area plants make plastics and rubber, but you
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might be surprised to learn that products made by local industries are used in everything from toilet bowl cleaners to toothpaste. “Every industrial facility in this area makes ingredients that go into consumer products,” said Nancy Tower, communications specialist at one of the area industries. “Some products are more well-known than others, but
they’re all manufactured to make our lives cleaner, safer, healthier and better.” For example, products from industry are used throughout the healthcare field. Vinyl is produced locally, and used extensively in the health care field including tubing for IVs and syringes, bags for blood donations and even heart catheters. Synthetic alcohol, made locally, is found in hand sanitizers and liquid soaps. Even contact lens cleaners, eye drops and other pharmaceuticals contain products produced locally. “Several local industries have education programs for students, and the kids are always interested to know that our products are found in a lot of familiar places, including in their refrigerators,” Tower said. “They get a kick out of learning that we make ingredients that go into food wraps and bowls to store leftovers. Such everyday items aren’t usually asso-
ciated with these big industrial facilities.” Polystyrene and polyethylene, produced by area industries, are very useful in the kitchen when they’re turned into bags, bowls, cups and wraps. Many of the products, which may come in contact with food, are certified as Kosher to ensure that they meet the requirements of Jewish dietary laws. “It’s not something people think much about, but throughout a day, there are dozens of products we use that our local industries had a part in making,” Tower said. “Deodorants, DVDs, athletic shoes, medications, lip balm and household detergents all contain primary ingredients manufactured by local industries. These products are sold all around the world, and much of it starts right here in Southwest Louisiana.” For more information, visit www.laia.com. TJN
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Sasol Advances U.S. Ethane Cracker and Derivatives Project Sasol recently announced a series of engineering and technology provider appointments as it continues to advance front-end engineering and design (FEED) of its world class ethane cracker and derivatives project. “We are delighted to be working with these world class contractors and technology partners in executing our project,” said Johan du Preez, Sasol Executive Vice president for the US Mega projects. “The selected companies are leaders in their respective fields and have the technologies, systems and expertise to help us deliver the project on schedule, optimizing our return on investment.” Fluor Corporation is the main FEED contractor for the ethane cracker and derivatives project. Individual engineering services agreements for the development of basic engineering packages have
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been concluded with Toyo Engineering Corporation for the linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) plant, Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co., Ltd for the low density polyethylene (LDPE) plant, and Samsung Engineering America Inc. for the ethylene oxide (EO) and mono-ethylene glycol (MEG) units. The technologies of Technip Stone & Webster Process Technology, Inc., ExxonMobil Chemical Technology Licensing, LLC, Univation Technologies, LLC and Scientific Design Company, Inc. have been selected for the ethane cracker, LDPE, LLDPE and EO/ MEG processes, respectively. In addition, Sasol will use its own
proprietary technologies for the Tetramerization, Ziegler alcohol and Guerbet alcohol units. Emerson Process management, a global business of Emerson, has been appointed as the main automation contractor for the project. Worley Parsons Limited has been contracted to support Sasol’s own project execution team as part of an Integrated Project Management Team. Worley Parson’s systems, tools and local expertise will be used to enhance the Sasol team that is overseeing the project. Sasol announced in December 2012 that it would begin FEED work for a world scale ethane cracker and derivatives facility to
be located near the town of Westlake, Louisiana. The current project costs for the ethane cracker are estimated at between US $5 – US $7 billion. It is currently envisioned that the final investment decision for the ethane cracker will be taken in 2014 with beneficial operation to be achieved in 2017. The ethane cracker is designed to produce 1.5 million tons per year of ethylene. “The ethylene produced in the chemical facility will be used to produce a range of high value derivatives in world scale plants,” said Andre de Ruyter, Senior Group Executive for Global Chemicals and North American Operations. “This forms part of Sasol’s strategy of building globally competitive downstream facilities and adding value to the already low cost of ethylene production opportunity in North America.” TJN
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By Angie Kay Dilmore It’s been a long time in the works, but the planners and employees involved with the Southwest Louisiana Entrepreneurial and Economic Development Center (SEED, for short) are gearing up for their grand opening on August 16, 2013. Located at 4310 Ryan St. across from McNeese State University (behind McDonald’s), this newly-built facility will serve as a resource center to meet the needs of start-up ventures or businesspersons who need assistance within the five-parish region. George Swift, president/CEO of the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Volume 5 • Issue 9
Alliance, has been a key player in the planning of this unique business resource center since its conception in early 2005. “The purpose [of the SEED Center] is to focus on entrepreneurship and create an environment where people who want to start a business can locate and get started or for those who are already in business and need assistance to increase their business,” said Swift. “With all the industrial expansion that’s coming along – in aviation, gaming and tourism, healthcare, and agriculture -- entrepreneurship can be another component of strengthening our regional economy.” According to Swift, what
makes this Center so unique is the “unprecedented collaboration.” The SWLA Economic Development Alliance, the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, McNeese University, and the City of Lake Charles combined forces to create this “one-stop shop” of resources for the business community. Funding was provided by the City and the Police Jury. They also received grants from the Louisiana Recovery Authority and the Economic Development Administration. McNeese State University donated the land. “We haven’t seen any projects that have had this much collaboration,” said Swift. “It’s unique in that we’re going to have all of
these entities in one location on a college campus. We’re excited about it. It’s taken a long time to develop, construct, and get ready.” In addition to providing funds for the facility, the Police Jury also served as the project manager for construction of the building. “I am most excited about the possibilities for new concepts and technologies that will originate from the SEED Center because of the synergies present between business and academia,” said Bryan Beam, Calcasieu Parish Administrator. “Having the complex located on the McNeese campus was a key decision in this process.” This diverse group broke JULY 25, 2013
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ground for the Center in 2010. But great things take time and are worth the effort and wait, which makes this upcoming grand opening all the more exciting. The three-story 50,000 square foot building bedecked with rich wood paneling, glass, and trendy light fixtures will house the offices of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance; McNeese’s Innovation Laboratory; classrooms for business and innovation training; and other business assistance organizations such as the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE); the Louisiana Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) and IMCAL, the Regional Planning Commission. The heart and soul of the Center is the SEED’s Business Incubator. Thirty empty offices await eager motivated entrepreneurs with big dreams. McNeese’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will also occupy an office on the first floor. The SBDC provides high quality one-on-one consult-
Adrian Wallace Executive Director of the SEED Center Incubator
ing, training, and information resources to help small businesses start, grow, and succeed. “Every occupant of the incubator will have access to these resources,” said Donna Little, director of the SBDC. “We can help with brain-storming, reviewing financial statements, assisting with customer base development, and problem solving.” The SBDC will also work PAGE 28
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with the Alliance to offer small business workshops in the beautiful new accommodations of the SEED Center.
Taking New Businesses from Bud to Blossom A business incubator is a center that fosters and nurtures new businesses by providing business counseling, services, training, and amenities such as office space and furniture, telephones, internet, fax and copy machines, a professional address, access to conference rooms, and a receptionist, all for a reasonable fee. “Business incubators are a nationally-proven concept,” Swift said. “Prior to Hurricane Rita, a number of folks were talking about the need for a business incubator in our region.” After Hurricane Rita, the area focused on recovery. Plans for the incubator were sidelined for a few years, but the concept was touted as an important long-range recovery project. Based on National Business Incubator Association statistics, incubators return nearly $5 dollars to the community for every $1 invested. According to Adrian Wallace, Executive Director of the SEED Center Incubator, business incubation is a process of assessing and meeting a client’s needs. Through the use of the incubator’s resources, the process
George Swift President/CEO of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance
moves clients from their business concept or idea into a sustainable thriving company. Businesses stay in the incubator an average of two-three years, but the goal is for them to become viable and successful enough to move out on their own and into commercial space. “Hopefully they will grow out, not go out (of business),” Swift said. “But we’re there to support them.” They are currently recruiting tenants for the incubator, and interested entrepreneurs can find applications on the SEED Center’s website or they can call the Center for more information after September 1. Applicants go through a screening process and clients are reviewed regularly for progress and needs assessment.
Innovation a Key to a Business Success Possessing a spirit of innovation and the ability to carry out innovative ideas is vital in today’s business world. McNeese University is so committed to this concept that they have created a minor degree in innovation. The degree is open to any McNeese student, no matter what they are
majoring in. Dr. Philip Williams, president of the University, is enthusiastic about this new program at the school. “The minor is flexibly designed so that it can be attached to any major a student wishes to take,” he said. “Our goal is to produce graduates who have not only achieved mastery in a particular content area, but they have also learned new ways to approach that particular major. For example, if a chemistry major decides to minor in innovation, we would expect that graduate to have the tools necessary to become an innovative chemist. The minor requires coursework in creativity science, communication skills, and commercialization--that is, how to fashion a raw idea into one that can become commercially viable.” In addition to the coursework in innovation, McNeese will have an innovation laboratory located on the first floor of the SEED Center. “We hope that the Innovation Laboratory in the SEED Center will serve as the ‘heartbeat’ for the academic minor that has been expanding across campus for the past year and a half,” Dr. Williams said. “The commercialization part of the minor dovetails nicely with the entrepreneurship activities that will be happening elsewhere in the SEED Center. We expect the synergies to be exciting, both in terms of student opportunities
Dr. Philip Williams President of McNeese State University
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and faculty research. This marriage of academics and industry is the way research regions like Silicon Valley got started.”
Innovation Station Dr. Nikos Kiritsis, dean of the McNeese College of Engineering, and Janet Woolman, McNeese executive director of research, have been collaborating for over two years
Randy Roach Mayor of Lake Charles
to develop this state-of-the-art Student Innovation Center. The Student Innovation Center's vision is to inspire meaningful creativity, encourage student exploration of new frontiers and stimulate economic development, according to Woolman. The Innovation Laboratory is a custom-built ecosystem with non-linear writeable wall space, interactive technology, communication devices, a prototyping center, and idea creation and commercialization tools designed to pioneer student invention through interdisciplinary collaboration. “Innovation engineering students – who come from all disciplines - will be able to create prototypes from basic construction using Play-doh, weighted paper and casting material all the way to advanced prototyping using a 3-D milling machine,” Woolman said. The Innovation Engineering coursework that will be taught in the Innovation Center coaches Volume 5 • Issue 9
students through the creation, communication and commercialization of meaningfully unique ideas. “It is so exciting to see our collaborative efforts coming to fruition,” Woolman said. “Creating an enriched space with tools that stimulate and inspire students from different disciplines has been a challenge. However, contributing to economic development will benefit our students as well as surrounding businesses and industry. We want to produce nurses, teachers, computer scientists, artists, political scientists, engineers, biologists and business professionals that are innovators.”
and McNeese and the Alliance sponsored six months of free rent in the SEED center incubator. There were nearly 30 entries from all across Shannon Spell SWLA, with District One Police Juror, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury a variety of business ideas. Seven the five-parish area is doing well finalists were chosen to pitch and is only going to increase as their ideas in person to a panel the area grows and prospers.” of local business “celebrity” According to Swift, the SEED judges, including Kristy Center should be open for busiArmand, Glen Bertrand, Rick ness on September 1. The grand Richard, Patricia Prebula, John opening on August 16 at 2 p.m. Stelly, and Perry Vincent. is open to the public. For more The three winners were Vy information on the SEED Center Nguyen with bookstoop.com, or the business incubator, check Tyson Queen and Matt Lundmark with ShopforMe.com, out their website, www.seedcenterswla.com or find them on and Derek Champagne with Fit Facebook. TJN for Business. Credo said McNeese plans to host this event annually. “We truly believe that the entrepreneurial spirit in Lake Charles, McNeese, and
Pitching Business Proposals for a Place in the Incubator The National Business Incubation Society cites "connecting with the right tenants" as one of the largest initial hurdles of business incubators. In an effort to attract top-notch tenants to the business incubator, as well as increase public awareness about the SEED Center, McNeese business professor Keith Credo organized a business proposal pitch competition. “I put this event together as a way to get the SWLA community excited about entrepreneurship and the soon-to-open SEED center,” he said. McNeese hosted the event in conjunction with the Angels of Southwest Louisiana (our local Angel investment organization) as well as the SWLA Alliance. The Angels donated all of the prize money for the winners, JULY 25, 2013
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McClelland Gets His Wish To me, the job of university athletic director is a little like being the head, unelected politician of sports for your particular school. Or maybe the Chief Executive Officer of Sports. On the one hand, you are tasked with running a multimillion-dollar entity. You’re up in your office wrist-deep in governmental (read: NCAA) red tape, balancing budgets, and dealing with other politicians while try-
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ing to keep your staff happy. On the other hand, you are tasked with glad-handing donors for more funds, attending numerous rubber-chicken dinners in the community, and schmoozing with the media while trying to keep from angering the rankand-file citizenry who spend their disposable income in your venues (or on your products, if you like the CEO image more). Meanwhile, if you’re at a
smaller school, you’re always looking for the bigger, better deal; a move up to the big leagues like the schools of the Southeastern Conference. It’s almost like running for United States Senate after paying your dues in the House of Representatives. Athletic director is not an easy job, even at the smaller schools. And there are only a very few (relatively speaking) jobs at the higher levels of college sports. But, I guess, dreams do come true sometimes. Former McNeese State athletic director Tommy McClelland finally got his wish: a promotion to the big leagues. On July 16, McClelland was officially named the athletic director at Louisiana Tech. Congratulations to him. It’s actually a perfect fit. McClelland, at age 31, gets the wish he’s seemed to hold ever since he took the McNeese job seven years earlier: a job at a bigger school. And Louisiana Tech
gets an athletic director who will feed into the Bulldogs’ delusions of grandeur. At McNeese, he ran the athletics department as if he were running the same at LSU. This very often meant he had no use for the hoi polloi surrounding Cowboys athletics. He was the public face of the botched roll-out of the McNeese Athletic Foundation’s Priority Seating Program which, enacted during a time of great nationwide financial difficulty, added insult to injury to those who were already struggling to scrape together the scratch to keep their football season tickets by adding a surcharge on top of the ticket prices. McClelland then went on to condescend to his justifiably angry critics by claiming that they just didn’t understand his wonderful plan. Then McClelland passed the buck on funding the new fieldhouse onto McNeese’s students, the majority of whom would never be allowed inside, much less use the facility. It was par for the course. When it came to the rank-andfile fans or McNeese students, McClelland had no use for them. They had nothing to offer him. What McClelland excelled at was generating copious amounts of donations. Much like a politician, McClelland was a big hit with donors, generating millions of dollars through various programs. He partnered with corporations for more money. Not surprising for a guy who attended such schools as the University of North Carolina’s KenanFlagler School of Business and the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California. Granted, one area in which McClelland excelled and which benefitted the entirety of the McNeese sports community was in hiring, especially in the women’s sports and smaller-market sports. His greatest hire was current Cowgirls softball coach Mike Smith, who had previously led little-known California Baptist University from obscurity into an NAIA dynasty. In two years, Smith’s Cowgirls teams are Volume 5 • Issue 9
a combined 72-36 and, in 2012, beat the No. 1 team in the nation at the time, Arizona State, on the road. The Cowgirls set a school record with 38 wins in 2013. McClelland also stuck with women’s basketball coach Brooks Donald-Williams, even as her Cowgirls basketball team struggled early on in her reign. Once Donald-Williams’ recruits began to feature more on the team, the fortunes of the Cowgirls quickly turned around, culminating in back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances. As I mentioned in my last column, time will tell if new Cowboys baseball coach Justin Hill will be as successful as Smith or Donald-Williams, but McClelland did make a smart gamble by turning to a young coach from outside the McNeese family and who, nevertheless, is familiar with Southland Conference competition. Sadly, for many of the McNeese faithful, McClelland’s hiring practices won’t be what they remember the most from his tenure as athletic director. For most, they will remember
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a man who was the consummate politician when it came to dealing with the donor classes while treating the average fan as if such fans were not worthy of his time. Such an attitude, one of superiority, won’t be anything new to the Louisiana Tech crowd. After all, this is the group that turned down a bowl bid last season because they couldn’t be seen playing on the same field as Louisiana-Monroe. Hopefully, he won’t treat the Bulldogs fans with the same contempt. 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 Brandon Shoumaker comments may contact Brandon at bshoumaker@yahoo.com or send him a message on Twitter (@bshoumaker).
TJN
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Those who Serve Us If we were rich and dealt with these workers every day in our homes, we’d call them our servants. Those who cook and serve our food, make our beds and clean up after us are America's hotel and restaurant workers, people whose faces we often don't even notice. What’s their life like, and what do they think of the people they serve? Jacob Tomsky has worked in the hotel business for more than a decade, from parking cars to housekeeping to working on the front desk. In Heads in Beds: A Reckless Memoir of Hotels, Hustles, and So-Called Hospitality, he reveals what the workers at two hotels in New Orleans and New York City have to go through on a day-to-day basis and how they’re treated -both by management and by guests.
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The hotel business makes its money by putting "heads in beds," he writes, and they are operated by an army of workers who keep everything humming smoothly, often by multi-tasking. "That is what we are, an army of servants, included with the price of the room," says Tomsky. "I was infinite. All things to all people. Uniform impeccable. Providing exceptional service." He lets us know what valets do with the cars they have to park. (It isn’t pretty.) And how absolutely awful it can be to clean up after people. "There is NOTHING easy about housekeeping. There is nothing EASY about dealing with other people's filth and having to get on your knees to do it." Some of what people leave behind is disgusting, and some is just outrageous. In New Orleans during Mardi Gras, for example, "a couple
of guests rented the suite with a clawfooted tub, built a fire below it, and tried to turn the porcelain tub into a deep fryer." He had to deal with celebrities, arrogant complainers ("threatening a front desk agent gets you nowhere. Well, that's not true. It gets you into a worse room"), and guests with idiosyncrasies, such as one who "refused to stay in any room where the digits didn't add up to nine." He shares insider secrets, such as how you never have to pay for treats from the minibar, things a guest should never say or do, things a guest must know, and standard lies that front desk agents tell. There’s a host of profanity throughout the book. He’s often funny but -- let’s just say -- a little irreverent. Behind the Kitchen Door by Saru Jayaraman is an important sociological study of American restaurant workers and includes their stories, their backgrounds, their hopes and their realities. Many of these workers are immi-
grants, and often they are here illegally. "Our food system now treats millions of workers like disposable commodities, paying them poverty wages, denying them medical benefits and sick pay, and tolerating racism and sexism on the job," writes Jayaraman. They are "servers, bussers, runners, dishwashers, cooks, and others -- who are struggling to support themselves and their families under the shockingly exploitative conditions that exist behind most restaurant kitchen doors. "Only 20 percent of restaurant jobs pay a livable wage, and women, people of color, and immigrants face significant barriers in obtaining those livable-wage jobs," she writes. "For the last two decades, the federal minimum wage for tipped workers has been Volume 5 • Issue 9
frozen at $2.13 an hour,” and “Millions of workers regularly experience wage theft (not being paid the wages and tips they are owed)." Some employers clock out employees before they finish their shifts or while they are still cleaning up the kitchen. Some servers are forced to pay the bill if the customer runs out without paying. She explains, "It took me years to understand how tipping really works. First, I learned that my $5 is shared by many different people: the waiter who takes my order, the runner who brings out my food, and the bussers who clean my table and refill my bread basket and water. In some restaurants, the waiter has to ask a bartender to prepare the drinks, and a barback may assist. In the finest fine-dining restaurants, a captain greets customers and oversees the service they receive. All those workers get a piece of my $5.” Besides enduring racial discrimination and sexual harassment, many times restaurant workers receive no sick days, so to keep money coming in they are forced to work while ill. Since they’re handling our food, this isn’t an ideal situation. But, says the author, there are some restaurant owners who “demonstrate how restaurants can pay workers a livable wage and still be profitable. Their food is better, too." She discusses the Slow Food movement, as opposed to fast-food restaurants. "Slow food is good, clean, and fair food -- good for the planet, and good for everyone in between." She talks about "sustainable food” and fair and equitable labor practices and offers suggestions on how consumers can help. In a more positive vein, Lauren Shockey is a woman who wholeVolume 5 • Issue 9
heartedly enjoys cooking, so her memoir, Four Kitchens: My Life Behind the Burner in New York, Hanoi, Tel Aviv, and Paris is an upbeat account of her “year-long world tour of kitchens.” Determined to become a great chef, Shockey went to culinary school, then decided "I wanted to discover what it meant to be a female chef in different countries around the world." She spent three months as an apprentice in each of the four cities mentioned in the title. She started out in a New York City restaurant that specializes in "molecular gastronomy" — no Hamburger Helper in that place. "I was absorbing kitchen wisdom by osmosis and simply by being in an environment driven by innovation and creativity. And I was learning through practice, practice, practice" during 12- to 13-hour days.” She wanted to go to Vietnam to learn from a French chef in Hanoi, to Israel because she's Jewish and "wanted to explore my ancestral home," and to Paris because -- well, because it's "the culinary Holy Grail." It’s not so much a travel memoir as a culinary guidebook filled with kitchen anecdotes about how different cultures work with food. The book includes about a dozen recipes from each of the four cities. For example: New York: "Lamb Meatballs with Cucumber-Yogurt Sauce"; Hanoi: "Tuna with Passion Fruit Sauce"; Tel Aviv: "Red Wine-Braised Brisket"; and Paris: "Lobster 'Ravioli' with Vanilla Champagne Sauce.” Copyright © 2013 Mary Louise Ruehr. TJN
15% Senior Discount All Doctors’ Prescriptions Accepted Experienced Professional Staff • Most Insurance Accepted
JULY 25, 2013
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Despicable Me 2
(Illumination Entertainment, Universal, 2013) I was pretty excited when the original Despicable Me came out. It had so much promise with an international spy/Pink Panther cartoon feel. Despicable Me 2 finally lives up to my unrealistic expectations. An animated movie has to go pretty far afield to escape the Saturday Morning Cartoons genre. Me 2 doesn’t try to escape the genre, it embraces it and then transcends it. Why am I writing so rapturously about a silly cartoon? Because I’m a grandparent now. Don’t you know that this changes everything? I see kids’ movies through the eyes of my granddaughter. We begin our story with a gigantic magnetic spaceship stealing a research lab on the North Pole. Just to make sure you know it’s a magnet, this thing is red and horseshoe shaped. Could this be the despicable Gru (the voice of Steve Carrell), former super villain, back to his old tricks? PAGE 34
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Switch scenes to a comfortable house in the suburbs. Gru is in the backyard grilling for his youngest (of three) adopted daughter’s birthday party. So it’s not his magnet spaceship at all. Whose is it? What follows is a riproaring adventure as Gru is drafted to find and catch the unknown villain. Along the way, his daughters are trying to get Gru a girlfriend, wanting a mother, mentor, and best friend forever, in order of their ages. Let’s not forget Gru’s Minions, the numerous little yellow creatures that speak in gibberish and have been relegated from mindless obedience to daily house-cleaning chores. In Me 2, the Minions are given much more screen time, which makes for a very laughable movie. These pesky creatures get into everything, always wearing the proper attire, whether it’s a French maid costume, a French beret, firefighter gear, or their standard overall work suit.
The timing of humor in Me 2 is perfect, quite a feat given that it’s almost non-stop. And Dr. Nefario (the voice of Russell Brand) is back, the mad scientist who creates Gru’s weapons. I don’t know whether he was inspired by the old Don Martin characters from Mad Magazine, or the Far Side, or both. But he’s just as funny as before. There are other notable characters, but the point is that each one is well thought out, with their own characteristics and body language. Plus, all their roles are necessary to the plot. My favorite was Silas Ramsbottom, the head of the Anti-Villain League. And when I say head, I mean his head is enormous on top of his business suit. He looks like one of those scary Monty Python cartoons, with rings under his eyes and a mouth that sits about one foot below his nose. Countless references to other
movies exist, including the Wizard of Oz, Star Wars, and some I’m sure I missed. In every scene, there is something happening in the background. The slapstick and physical comedy make this movie. If I had one complaint it would be that it’s a little too much for small children. But in terms of violence, I’d put Me 2 it on the lower side of the old Roadrunner cartoons and way less than Tom and Jerry. The music is the fast-paced international/Pink Panther type score that I’d hoped for. In this movie it fits perfectly. We opted to see the 2D version of Despicable Me 2, and I don’t think it hurt it a bit, although the 3D cut is probably excellent. Final note: I wasn’t sure if the Minions were speaking an actual language, but I did catch the word “gelato” several times. Go see this one. Adults and kids won’t be disappointed and the animation is fantastic. Enjoy. TJN
through August 15 2013
Volume 5 • Issue 9
LC SYMPHONY’S SUMMER POPS The Lake Charles Symphony hosted the annual Summer Pops concert at the Lake Charles Civic Center, performing along with featured guest Madmen Across the Water, an Elton John Tribute Band. Symphony supporters as well as Elton John enthusiasts enjoyed this wonderful evening of grand entertainment. What a show!
Casie Ames, Symphony Director Shelly Appleby and Marty Thompson
Laura and Cirra Foreman
Lucia, Leslie and Ceci O’Byrne
Edgar and Ellen McCanless with Frank Hyatt
Dawn Redd and Julie Breaux
Bruce and Kristie Eisen
Rebecca Savoie and Keli Conner
Cassie and Ellie Gage with Caroline and Aidan Ritchie
JEN KOBER'S HOMEGROWN COMEDY SHOW It was a night of laughter as local comedian Jen Kober took to the stage before yet another sold-out crowd at Jack Daniels Bar & Grill at L'Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles! Local amateurs took to the stage and the improvs were hilarious. Jen’s here every Wednesday night all summer, so don’t miss out— and come early for your tickets! Laura Daire, Jennifer Andrepont, Suzanne Vidrine, Suzette Miller and Lisa Fontenot Volume 5 • Issue 9
Marta Samudio and Devon Firestone
Ashley Beard and Marshall Wesney JULY 25, 2013
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Johnethia Bellard and Pam Manuel
Misty Fuselier and Cassidy Fontenot
Mitch McFatter and Carla Williams
PARTY BY THE POOL The evening was hot as toned, tanned bikini babes took to the stage to compete before a select panel of judges in the 6th annual Bikini Bombshell contest at L’Auberge--a definite crowd pleaser! Unfortunately, Mother Nature didn’t allow for the show to go on as the Liquid Society’s Purple Reign concert reign-ed out! But there was plenty of good food, cocktails and entertainment indoors to make for a fabulous evening of fun! Denise Miller and Brenda Ford
Amber Pauley and Mike Bennett
Amelia Unser, Hailey Louviere, D’Angelo Davis, and Savannah Ramirez
Kylie Law, Amanda Kolb and Kara Leger
Tori Touchet, Beth Ogea, Jacob Broussard and Kade Shaw PAGE 36
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Renee Maye and LaDonna Randle
Keisha Nash, Wanita Thibodeaux, Michelle Hagerich and Corita Johnson
Beth Dawdy, Carrie Marcantel and Cindy Webb
Amber Pauley and Mike Bennett Volume 5 • Issue 9
LAFITTE’S LADIES ROLLER DERBY The Grindhouse on Enterprise was the place to be for a fastrolling smack-tion packed bout as our Lafitte’s Ladies flattened the GRITS before a hooping, hollering packed house! Weinie Dogs Hot Dog Stand served up them dogs, foot-longs, boudin links and more! The spotlight charity for this night’s game was Big Brothers Big Sisters of SWLA. Way to roll!!! David Latta and Shawna Broussard
REF Blake, Katrina Aucoin and Desiree Juarez
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Becky Fuselier, Charisse Chaffin and Dawn Bryant
Alicia Cretini and Autumn Hastings
Kelli and KC Marcantel
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JEN KOBER AT JACK DANIELS WEDNESDAYS--ALL SUMMER! Local comedian Jen Kober is bringing her funny antics to L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles, where she will perform every Wednesday night in July and August Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill. Dubbed “Jen Kober’s Homegrown Comedy Show,” this hometown girl promises a fresh new act each week with an array of guest entertainers and hilarious audience participation. The shows at Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill cost just $10 and begin at 9 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com, the L’Auberge Business Center or Legends at L’Auberge. Tickets will be available at the door the night of each show; cash only please. Must be 21 to attend.
July Events at the Children’s Museum Amazing Thursday, July 25: Wildlife Conservation
At 11 a.m., Dan Everett with Friends of the Refuge will talk about keeping the habitat of our animals clean. He’ll show different animal furs confiscated from poachers.
Fun Friday, July 26: Swirl’n Spin Art Join us anytime between 10:30 a.m. - noon. in the ArtSpace and experiment with exciting designs using our Swirl’n Spin art machine!
Creative Monday, July 29: African Masks Paint your own African mask at 2:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Crafty Tuesday, July 30: Pinwheels Make a twirling pinwheel at 11 a.m. and noon
Fruity Wednesday, July 31: Strawberries Strawberries will be served from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. while supplies last. All Creative Monday and Crafty Tuesday Workshops are limited to 20 children per class. Please sign up in the office when you arrive the day of the event. The Children's Museum is located at 327 Broad Street downtown Lake Charles. Museum hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is $7.50 for children and adults. Call (337) 433-9420 or visit www.swlakids.org for more information.
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PARTY BY THE POOL AT L’AUBERGE! JULY 25 The band 311 is coming July 25. Tickets for Liquid Society are $10-$20 at www.ticketmaster.com, at L'Auberge through the Business Center or Legends at L'Auberge, or you can call (800) 7453000. Tickets may also be purchased the night of the show at Legends. Doors open at 7 p.m. and show starts at 8:30 p.m. Must be 21 years old to enter. MARSHLAND FESTIVAL JULY 26-27 Music isn’t all that goes on during the Marshland Festival at the Lake Charles Civic Center! There will be a business expo, arts and crafts, activities for the kids and more, including…food! Southwest Louisiana is known for flavorful fare and hot music, and this festival will give you a taste of both. Live music begins at 6 p.m. on Fri., July 26, ending at midnight. On Sat., July 27, the music will begin at noon and go through the day, ending at midnight. For a complete schedule, visit www.marshlandfestival.com. BEAUREGARD PARISH CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY JULY 27 Soak up the past at the Beauregard Parish 100-Year Celebration on Sat. July 27 from 3-11 p.m., at the Beauregard Parish Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall, Hwy 171 North of DeRidder. Enjoy live music, art and family fun including water slides, jumps and inflatable bounce/slides along with face painting, balloons, a scavenger hunt and sack races. There will also be a barbecue cook-off and fireworks at 9 pm. Admission is free and includes hot dogs and drinks. For more information, call (337) 348-6054. TOURNAMENT OF THE STARS JULY 27 Tournament of the Stars will hold its annual scholarship fundraiser, Sat., July 27, at 7 p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center. This year, $8,000 in scholarships will be awarded to ten local high school students. The fundraiser will also honor Mayor Randy Roach, who has always shown dedication and support of higher education, community and family. Entertainment will be sponsored by Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel and includes City Heat, jazz saxophonist Mickey Smith, Jr. and duo Lerone Rubin and Teka Briscoe. Tickets are $50 at the Civic Center box office or online at www.tournamentofthestars.com. For more information, call (337) 405-9130. VOLUNTEER CENTER’S CASINO ROYALE JULY 27 The Volunteer Center of Southwest Louisiana, Inc. is hosting their 3rd annual Casino Royale on Saturday, July 27, from 7-11 p.m. at Reeves Uptown Catering in Lake Charles. The event features games like blackjack, roulette, poker and craps. The evening's top five chip winners will each take home a fabulous door prize. All event proceeds benefit 2-1-1, a program that area residents can use for health and human service information and referrals such as disaster aid, shelters, food banks, child care, counseling, volunteer opportunities and employment support. Individual tickets are $50 each and sponsorship opportunities range from $250
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- $2,500. Anyone interested in sponsoring Casino Royale or purchasing tickets can call 513-4616. AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY’S CANDLES & COCKTAILS JULY 27 The American Cancer Society’s Candles and Cocktails – “A Birthday Under the Big Top” will be held July 27 at the Isle of Capri Casino Hotel. Enjoy a magnificent dinner prepared by the Isle chef, a gourmet funnel cake station, a silent and live auction and other Big Top fun. Local sounds of the “Street Side Jazz Band” will entertain the crowd during dinner. The night will conclude with dancing and fun with “Bottoms Up” – a party cover band from Baton Rouge. Theresa Needham will serve as the emcee, and the event auctioneer, Philip de Albuquerque, is no stranger to the Big Top scene! Tickets are $100 per person or $1,000 for a reserved table of 8. For more information, call the American Cancer Society at 433-5817 ext. 5.
tive of their cuisine’s styles. A culinary battle will take place through a panel of mystery judges, with Acadiana Profiles magazine offering the winning Top Crab Chef a two-night stay at the Ritz Carlton in New Orleans, along with special prizes for the People’s Choice winner, voted on by the public with cash tips. Live music, an extensive Art Market, and interactive cultural activities will also accompany the event. A limited number of $25 tickets are available now at www.artsandcrabsfest.eventbrite.com. No one under 21 years of age will be admitted. TJN
ART RECEPTION AT GALLERY BY THE LAKE AUG. 1 Join Linda Gleason Ritchie on Aug. 1 at Gallery by the Lake for a reception to kick off her art exhibition. Time is 5:30 -8 p.m. Light refreshments and wine will be served. The Gallery is located at 106 W. Pryce Street in downtown Lake Charles. ‘ABRAHAM LINCOLN: THE IMAGE’ AUG. 2 The City of Lake Charles will host “Abraham Lincoln: The Image” at Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center. The opening reception will take place on Fri., Aug. 2 from 5:30-8 p.m.; all ages are welcome at no charge. The exhibition will hang through October 12, 2013. This unique exhibition offers highlights from one of the largest collections of Lincoln prints in the world and illustrates how Lincoln was viewed by people of his time and how he has been remembered since. Historic City Hall is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. For more information, call 491-9147 or visit www.cityoflakecharles.com ANNUAL KREWE DE KAROLINE POKER RUN AUG. 10 The annual Krewe de Karoline Poker Run benefits West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital’s Genesis Therapeutic Riding Center. It begins at 8:30 a.m. – until at Wayne & Layne's Deli & Bar. Plate lunches at 11 a.m., auction at 5 p.m., live music noon – until. For more information, call (337) 274-9155. ACTS FUNDRAISER AUG. 10 Tickets are on sale for ACTS Theatre Lake Charles’ fundraiser productions of “My Favorite Things.” With a donation of $25, patrons will experience a variety of songs and dances that are favorites of the performers and enjoy a reception of wine, soft drinks and finger foods. The events are scheduled for Sat., Aug. 10 at 7:30 p.m. with a reception beginning at 6:30 p.m., and on Sun., Aug. 11 at 3 p.m. with a reception beginning at 2 p.m. Both performances are at ACTS One Reid Street theatre. Tickets may be purchased online at actstheatre.com, at the Lake Charles Civic Center box office, at Lakeshore Medic Pharmacy on Enterprise Blvd., at Moss Bluff Flower and Gift, or at the door as they remain available. ‘TIL DEATH DO US PART: LATE NITE CATECHISM 3 AUG. 11 Coming to the Lake Charles Civic Center-Rosa Hart Theatre on Sun., Aug. 11, ‘Til Death Do Us Part: Late Nite Catechism 3 is making its way to Lake Charles. After teaching countless students about the saints, venial sins, limbo and more, Sister is now offering up hilarious lessons on the Sacraments of Marriage and the Blessing of the Sick, including her own wacky version of the Newlywed Game. Classroom participation is a must, so bring along your sweetie and your sense of humor for a session with the country’s feistiest couples counselor! Performance is at 3 p.m. Ticket prices range from $32 to $52. To purchase tickets, call the Lake Charles Civic Center Box Office at 491-1432 or go to Ticketmaster.com and search St. Martin de Porres Late Nite Catechism 3. ARTS & CRABS FEST AUG. 17 The fourth annual Arts & Crabs Fest will take place on Sat., Aug. 17 from 5-8 p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum. Festivalgoers can sample an extensive crab and beer tasting which features fifteen local restaurants each offering a unique crab dish representa-
Volume 5 • Issue 9
JULY 25, 2013
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Sponsored by
To list your event e-mail: lauren@thejambalayanews.com
The
THURSDAY, JULY 25 • Leroy Thomas & Zydeco Roadrunners @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • I’m Famous @ Dharma, 8 p.m. • Phillip Glyn @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • 311 @ Liquid Society, L’Auberge Casino, 8:30 p.m. FRIDAY, JULY 26 • Belly dancers at Zeus Café, 7 p.m.
• Various Artists @ Marshland Festival, Lake Charles Civic Center, 5 p.m. • Street Side Jazz Band @ Luna Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. • No Idea @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Kevin Costner & Modern West @ The Pavilion, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7:30 p.m. • Hello Chief/We Are Wombats/Certain Satellites @ Dharma, 8 p.m. • Large Marge/Deadman Circus @ Luna Live, 8 p.m.
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JULY 25, 2013
• Blackbird @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Twangsters Union @ Yesterday’s, 9 p.m. • John Guidroz @ Micci’s Piano Bar, 9 p.m. • Hold Fast Fables @ Cigar Club, 9 p.m. • Larry Tillery @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • Jackson Taylor & The Sinners @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 11 p.m.
• Bujie & The Highrise/The Dubonauts @ Dharma, 8 p.m. • Da Classics @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Brian Moore @ Cigar Club, 9 p.m. • Larry Tillery @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • Michael Dolan/Wayne Dylan @ Micci’s Piano Bar, 9:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, JULY 27
WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 • The Posse @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Jen Kober @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 9 p.m.
• Acoustic guitarist Jay Kacherski @ Zeus Café, 6 p.m.
• Various Artists @ Marshland Festival, Lake Charles Civic Center, 11 a.m. • Before I Hang/Dummy Dumpster @ Lethal Arts, 6 p.m. • No Idea @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 1 • ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • TBA @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • The Flamethrowers @ Liquid Society, L’Auberge Casino, 8:30 p.m. • DJ Eric Scott @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 11 p.m.
Volume 5 • Issue 9
FRIDAY, AUGUST 2 • Belly dancers at Zeus Café, 7 p.m.
• Wayne Dylan @ 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. • Ratt @ L’Auberge Event Center, L’Auberge Casino, 8 p.m. • TBA @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Logan Soileau @ Cigar Club, 9 p.m. • Louisiana Express & Johnnie Allen @ Yesterday’s, 9 p.m. • Leon Chavis @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • DJ Eric Scott @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 11 p.m. SATURDAY, AUGUST 3 • Acoustic guitarist Jay Kacherski @ Zeus Café, 6 p.m.
• ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Gabriel’s Last Breath @ Luna Live, 8 p.m. • TBA @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Champagne Room @ Yesterday’s, 9 p.m. • Leon Chavis @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • Wayne Dylan @ Micci’s Piano Bar, 9:30 p.m. • DJ Eric Scott @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 11 p.m. TJN
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JULY 25, 2013
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JULY 25, 2013
Volume 5 • Issue 9
Volume 5 • Issue 9
JULY 25, 2013
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