The Jambalaya News = Vol. 1. No 16

VOL. 1, NO. 16 /NOVEMBER 5, 2009

The Dang Yankee Loves his Seat Belt The Yellow Flag Press

The Perfect Autumn Adventure Jackson Square West Kiwanis Fair Program

Hope Therapy Center is a comprehensive outpatient clinic located on East Prien Lake Road here in Lake Charles. We provide physical, occupational and speech therapy services for pediatrics, adults and geriatrics. We love what we do and are excited for the opportunity to provide services for you or your family member.

At Hope, our philosophy is to employ staff with a strong passion for their respective fields of study. We encourage our therapists in their professional growth through generous continuing education opportunities in order to bring the most comprehensive therapy programs to the Lake Area. We realize that our patients and their families are meeting us at the most challenging point of their lives so we strive to provide an atmosphere that is relaxed and family oriented.

Our goal for our patients is to maximize their potential and to help them attain the highest level of independence possible. Our goal for the families of our patients is to provide education and support throughout the duration of their therapy program.

If you wish to know more about our programs, check out our website at www.hopetherapycenter.net.

SERVICES INCLUDE: • Physical Therapy • Speech Pathology • Occupational Therapy • Pet Therapy • Pediatric Speech Therapy • Pediatric Occupational Therapy • Pediatric Physical Therapy

Owners: Sonya M. Brooks, MA, CCC-SLP and Kim B. Anderson, PT, DPT

1717 E. Prien Lake Rd. Suite 1, Lake Charles La. 70601 PAGE 2

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

On Cover: Owners Sonya Brooks, front left, MA, CCC-SLP, and Kim Anderson, PT, DPT, with Mika Doucet, LOTR, MOT, back left, Emily Pelican, MS, CF-SLP, and Jill Willis, PTA, of Hope Therapy Center. Photo by Michelle LaVoie

GENERAL 715 Kirby St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 PUBLISHER Phil de Albuquerque publisher@thejambalayanews.com

NEWS MANAGING EDITOR Lauren de Albuquerque lauren@thejambalayanews.com

EDITOR Lisa Yates lisa@thejambalayanews.com

CONTRIBUTORS Kay Andrews Leslie Berman Sara Blackwell George Cline James Doyle Dan Ellender Robert Lofton, M.D. Erica McCreedy Mike McHugh Mary Louise Ruehr Brandon Shoumaker Steve Springer, M.D. ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANT Patricia Prudhomme SALES ASSOCIATES Faye Drake Karla Tullos Lazette Procter Katy Corbello GRAPHICS ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Darrell Buck ART/PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Michelle LaVoie BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kay Andrews MARKETING INTERN Leslie Davis

contents

November 5, 2009 • Volume 1 • Issue 16

COVER STORY 26

19

One-on-One With Hope Therapy

REGULARS 7 11 12 14 16 17 18 21

The Boiling Pot Doyle’s Place The Dang Yankee The Zestful Life House Call Tip’s Tips Sports Report What’s Cookin’

FEATURES 5 22 42

The Ones You Remember Bayou Biz: CM Farms The Yellow Flag Press

ENTERTAINMENT 37 38 39 40 44 48 50 53

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

5 26

22 39

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

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

Volume 1 • Issue 16

14 NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 3

A Note From Lauren For the Love of Animals Pets. Where would we be without them?

In this issue is a wonderful article by Dr. Robert Lofton about all the animals he’s saved in his 37 years as a local vet. These creatures have touched his life in so many ways. I know that all pet owners will agree that their furry friends have brought much joy and companionship.

When Phil and I moved down here, we arrived with one stubborn Scottish Terrier named Rhiannon. We still have her (12 years old and going strong), but we’ve taken on a few more little creatures. Well, maybe more than a few.

It all started with a neighbor’s cat, Shadow, who would show up at our door and demand to be let in. Phil always loved cats, but I was allergic to them, and frankly, I was never a cat person. I thought they were skittish and snobby and unfriendly.

Shadow was different. He was more like a dog. He was happy and affectionate and had a unique little personality. Better still, I

Huck Finn– my favorite cat

PAGE 4

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

would pat him and he would sit in my lap—and I never sneezed. Hmmm.

There were strays around the neighborhood that would venture on to our property. Some were distant and unfriendly, but so many more were like Shadow. I began to see cats in a very different light—and I fell head over heels in love with them. And the allergy that I had up North was nonexistent down here.

Before we knew it, we were naming them, feeding them and taking them to the vet when they were ill or injured, or to be neutered and spayed. They literally became part of the family.

Invariably, we got involved with a couple of local animal rescue groups. And this is when things got tough.

This is when we saw, firsthand, the results of animal abuse. It is heartbreaking to see, and it makes you angry, very angry, to know that there are people right here in our neighborhood who would do horrible things to helpless creatures who only want our love—or, who just want to be left alone to do the wild thing.

There’s Delilah, who was thrown into a bonfire and came to animal control with burned paws and ears. She’s living with us now—a happy girl who’s completely recovered from the injuries she received last year. Tootie was found clinging to the 210 bridge. Her littermates were thrown over, but she managed to hang on and survive. It took months to bring her around, but now she runs and plays with the rest of the gang, her trauma forgotten.

Then, of course, there’s the story of that fine young man in Sulphur who brutally killed a family pet with a samurai sword, just for the heck of it. Hey, it was New Year’s, and I guess that’s how sickos celebrate.

I could go on and on, but I think you get the message. Please, if you see signs of animal abuse in your neighborhood, do something about it. Report it to the police. Also, there are several wonderful rescue groups in the area that may be able to help. But do something. Please.

– Lauren de Albuquerque

TJN

Volume 1 • Issue 16

By Dr. Robert M. Lofton

Last week, I had one of those reminders that make us veterinarians glad we’re part of a wonderful profession.

Dani was a small male mixed breed that ended up at our veterinary hospital with a broken leg. He was found and brought in by someone that could not afford to repair the dog’s leg. After some discussion, it was decided that this little dog would be euthanized if his owner couldn’t be located.

While we searched for his owners, Dani won the hearts of the doctors and staff. So yes, you guessed it—Dani’s leg was repaired under the condition that the staff would either find him a home, or one of the staff would take him home. He received his name after one of our staff members because she loved the little stray so much.

Luckily, one of our clients adopted him, and soon after, moved out of Lake Charles to be with her son.

Three years later, her son was visiting Lake Charles with Dani and decided to bring him to our clinic for

The Mayor’s Armed Forces Commission and the City of Lake Charles will host the City’s annual Veteran’s Day activities beginning with the Veterans Day service at Veterans Memorial Park on Sat., Nov. 7 at 10 a.m.

The annual Veterans Day parade will follow the service at 11 a.m. The parade will begin at the north end of the Civic Center going north on Lakeshore Dr. to Pine St., continuing east on Pine St. to Ryan St., south on Ryan St. to Clarence St., and west on Clarence St. to Bord Du Lac Dr., concluding behind the Civic Center.

Following the parade, a gumbo cookoff, co-sponsored by the Mayor’s Armed Forces Commission and American Legion Post 1, will take place at the Civic Center. Post 1, along with representaVolume 1 • Issue 16

us to see how well he was doing. Sure enough, a cute little fat dog walked in with no lameness to indicate a previously broken leg. Listening to this man talk, I was amazed at how much this pet meant to his mother.

After Dani and his caretaker left, I began to reflect on the many, many pets that I have seen in 37 years of practice. There was King, the big black Persian; Red, the Irish Setter; Molly, the Cocker Spaniel; Nickie, the Sheltie mix; Sunday, the Border Collier; Lexie, Gracie, Tiny Girl—and so on. Each and every pet that comes into a veterinary practice is not only special to its owner but also to the doctors and staff of these hospitals.

Pets are part of the family. They love us unconditionally—even when we’ve a bad day—and they’re always glad to see us when we walk in the door.

Statistics show they can lower our blood pressure, make us smile, and help us to live longer and healthier lives. Dani’s visit just helped me recall how wonderful it is to be a veterinarian.

TJN

tives from local recruiting stations, will compete with cooking teams.

Business organizations or individuals interested in participating in the parade must fill out a parade application no later than Thurs., Nov. 5 and return the application to: Office of the Mayor, City Hall, P.O. Box 900, Lake Charles, LA 70602; or fax the application to 491-1206.

Applications can be picked up at City Hall or potential participants can call 491-1201 and have the application faxed to them. A copy of the application can also be downloaded from the City of Lake Charles Web site at www.cityoflakecharles.com. For more information, call 491-1201.

TJN

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 5

Lake Area Classes, Seminars, Workshops UPCOMING SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS AND CLASSES AT LAKE CHARLES MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Diabetes Support Group Don’t underestimate the importance of education and peer support when living with diabetes. For more information, call Memorial’s Diabetes Education at (337) 494-6425.

Tuesdays, Nov. 3 and 17, 10 – 11 a.m.

La Leche League A breastfeeding support group for pregnant mothers and mothers who are already nursing. Meetings are free and open to mothers and babies. For more information call Courtney at (337) 217-8056 or Amber at (337) 313-4303.

Thurs., Nov. 5, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Coping with Cancer For those cancer patients who are newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, or who have completed treatment. For more information call Memorial’s Chaplain, the Rev. David DeWitt at (337) 802-1933.

Tues., Nov. 17 Noon – light refreshments served.

Sisters Surviving A breast cancer support group for African-American women, but open to any woman regardless of race. For more information, call (337) 433-5817.

Tues., Nov. 17, 6 p.m.

Baby Care Class The Baby Care Class reviews newborn characteristics, general baby care, early parenting issues and community resources. Recommended during the last three months of pregnancy.

Thurs., Nov. 5 and Mon., Nov. 30 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., $10/couple Infant CPR for Family and Friends Learn and practice rescue for choking and CPR for infants. This is not a certifying or credentialing course, but is recommended for expectant parents, new parents and support persons.

Mon., Nov. 9, 6:30– 8:30 p.m. $5/person MEMORIAL HOSPITAL PRESENTS “ASK THE CARDIOLOGIST” NOV. 12 Heart disease, stroke, hypertension, blood clots – the list of serious cardiovascular conditions is long and too often deadly. Keeping yourself

informed on these conditions – and your risk for suffering from them – is a very important step in prevention and treatment.

To learn more, join Christopher S. Thompson, M.D., FACC, a board certified cardiologist on staff at Memorial Hospital, for “Answers Straight from the Heart—Ask the Cardiologist,” a question and answer session that will keep you informed on heart health and the warning signs and treatment options for cardiovascular disease. In addition to general cardiology, his areas of expertise include cardiac catheterization, cardiac rehabilitation and interventional cardiology.

“Answers Straight from the Heart— Ask the Cardiologist” is a free seminar that will be held at 6 p.m. on Thurs., Nov. 12, in the Shearman Conference Center at Memorial Hospital on Oak Park Boulevard. Refreshments will be provided, and reservations are required. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.lcmh.com or call (337) 494-2936.

SMALL BUSINESS SEMINAR AT OAKDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY NOV. 9 A seminar titled “Starting and

Financing a Small Business” will be offered from 5-7:30 p.m., Nov. 9, at the Oakdale Public Library at 405 E. 6th Ave. by the Louisiana Small Business Development Center at McNeese State University.

This seminar is recommended for individuals interested in starting their own business. Information on financing a start-up business, learning how to write a business plan and the expectations of lenders will be available.

Cost is $10 and pre-registration is requested. For more information or to register, contact the LSBDC at McNeese at (337) 475-5529 or go online at lsbdc.msu@lsbdc.org.

FREE TRAINING AT CARE HELP OF SULPHUR NOV. 13 Free training is available at Care Help of Sulphur with noted workshop presenter Carol Pettyjohn. On Nov. 13, Job Skills Assessment will be held from 1 -3 p.m. at 112 E. Thomas St. in Sulphur. There will be also be a free drawing for a Wise Penny Thrift Store gift certificate. Seats are limited, so call to reserve your place at 528-2273, and visit their Web site at www.carehelp.org. TJN

New Report on Effectiveness of Smoke-Free Air Laws

www.thejambalayanews.com • (337) 436-7800

“The response from our ad has been unbelievable! We are getting 6-8 new clients a week. Thank you Faye Drake… you’re the best ever!”

— Tasha Evans Owner, Salon Evans

1 0 9 W . L A G R A N G E , L A K E C H A R L E S • (337) 477-6868 PAGE 6

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

In Louisiana, approximately 1,000 children and adults die each year due to secondhand smoke exposure, with heart disease the top cause of death in the state. Now, a report released by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) shows the strong connection between secondhand smoke exposure and heart disease and reveals that smoke-free air laws and regulations are effective at reducing the risk of heart attacks.

The IOM report, Secondhand–Smoke Exposure and Cardiovascular Effects: Making Sense of the Evidence, was released yesterday, and it confirms there is “sufficient evidence that breathing secondhand smoke boosts nonsmokers’ risk for heart problems,” adding that there is also evidence indicating that even relatively brief exposure to secondhand smoke can lead to a heart attack. In addition, the report showed a causal relationship between smoke-free laws and decreases in heart attacks.

About 43 percent of nonsmoking children and 37 percent of nonsmoking adults are exposed to secondhand smoke in the United States, according to recent data.

The IOM report, which was supported by the CDC, examined critical studies of smoke-free laws in the United States and around the globe and all showed a reduction of heart attack rates after smokefree regulations had been instituted.

To read more about the new report, visit the IOM’s Web site at www.iom.edu.

The Louisiana Smoke-Free Air Act prohibits smoking in most public places and workplaces, including all restaurants with or without attached bars, but bars and casinos remain exempt. To find out more, visit www.tobaccofreeliving.org.

TJN

Volume 1 • Issue 16

The

Boiling

P l

Please submit press releases to lauren@thejambalayanews.com

From left: Judy Poole, Joseph Mayne, Phyllis Ogea, Russ Conrad, Janelle Zeiger, Joel Newman.

ALA President Anne Dentler and Marcia Dutton.

ALA 26th Birthday Bash Associated Louisiana Artists (ALA) celebrated its 26th birthday recently at the Pioneer Club in Lake Charles. President Anne Dentler gave the following awards: Marcia Dutton, Outstanding Member; 2009 Protegee’ Belinda Y. Hughes, Inaugural Spirit Award; Charlie Dutton and Triangle Yang, Honorary Member Award; and Dorothy Oakman, Charter Membership Recognition.

Moss Regional Diabetes Self-Management Program Recognized The W. O. Moss Regional Medical Center Diabetes Self-Management Education Program has been awarded recognition by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The ADA Education Recognition is a voluntary process, which assures that approved education programs have met the national standards for diabetes self-management education programs. The programs that achieve recognition status have a staff of knowledgeable health professionals who can provide state-of-the-art information about diabetes management to participants. The process gives professionals a national standard by which to measure the quality of the services they provide. For more information, contact Sandra Fruge at 475-8279.

Cameron Communications Launches ESPN360 Cameron Communications is pleased to announce a joint venture between themselves and ESPN to bring to their Internet customers ESPN360: A high tech, digital control room, capturing live sports from around the globe and bringing them to Cameron Communications’ Internet customers. Every Cameron Communications Internet customer will have access to ESPN360 free with their high-speed Internet service. Current customers with questions on ESPN360, and anyone interested in service from Cameron Communications can either visit www.camtel.com or call (800) 737-3900 for more information.

Volume 1 • Issue 16

L’Auberge du Lac Names September Five Star Employees L’Auberge du Lac Casino recently announced its September Five Star Employees. Additionally, the property named its outstanding Leaders of the Quarter. The Five Stars are: Russ Conrad, an audio visual technician; Joel Newman, an engineer; Phyllis Ogea, a cage cashier; Judy Poole, a table games dealer; Joseph Mayne, a security officer; and Janelle Zeiger, a casino beverage server. Russ Conrad is also designated as the Employee of the Month and is now eligible to receive the coveted Employee of the Year award. The Leaders of the Quarter are Patrick Quintano, an executive casino host; Garren Saxby, a table games floor supervisor; Andrew Tate, a pool supervisor; and Son Vo, a table games pit manager.

From left: Son Vo, Patrick Quintano, Andrew Tate, Garren Saxby Memorial Hospital Honors Gillis Elementary Artists Lake Charles Memorial Hospital recently honored students who participated in the Young at Art Program in September. The program, which spotlights artwork from a different local elementary school each month, was designed to make a positive impact on hospital patients, employees, and the NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 7

young artists themselves. September’s display featured artwork by the fourth and fifth grade students from Gillis Elementary. A panel of Memorial volunteers recognized fourth-graders Grace Monceaux and Brandon Naquin and fifth-grader Jacob Sonnier with a $50 savings bond.

Dr. J. King White

September/October issue of Louisiana Life magazine.

Louisiana Life utilized the services of Best Doctors, Inc., an organization highly regarded in gathering professional peer ratings, to report the results. Drs. Turner and White are part of a group of board-certified cardiologists that form Cardiovascular Specialists of Southwest Louisiana, located at 600 DeBakey Drive in Lake Charles, with additional locations in Sulphur, DeRidder, Jennings and Kinder. For more information, visit www.csswla.com, or contact Jen Breen at 478-7396 or jbreen@ocarroll.com.

Chase Bank Donates to Banners Series The McNeese State University Banners Cultural Series is annually supported by donations from area corporate sponsors such as Chase Bank, which has donated $10,000 for the upcoming 2010 Series. The Banners Series will begin its 18th year on Feb. 20 with the internationally prestigious King’s Singers and will continue through the first weekend in May. Jon Manns, center, plant manager for the Lake Charles complex of PPG Industries, presents the donation to Dr. Mitchell Adrian, left, dean of the college of business, and Dr. Nikos Kiritsis, dean of the college of engineering and engineering technology. McNeese Photo PPG Industries Donates to McNeese PPG Industries, Inc. has donated $5,000 to McNeese State University through the McNeese Foundation to be divided between the McNeese colleges of business and engineering and engineering technology.

Drs. Michael Turner and J. King White Named Among Louisiana’s Top Doctors Michael Turner, M.D. and J. King White, M.D., of the Cardiovascular Specialists of Southwest Louisiana were listed among Louisiana’s Top Doctors specializing in cardiovascular disease in the

Dr. Michael Turner

Rodney K. “Poncho” Seaford, left, president of Chase Bank, Lake Charles, presents the donation to Mary Richardson, Banners director. McNeese Photo

Full Service Salon and Wellness Spa here in Lake Charles.

WE WELCOME TRACY BADGETT TO OUR TEAM... FORMERLY AN EMPLOYEE OF BAUHAUS SALON Introducing the latest straightening system only at Salon Evans. The Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy is a CHEMICAL FREE straightening system that helps you maintain smooth, straight and healthy hair!

COMING SOON! Exclusively at Salon Evans!! Eufora is an all natural Aloe based organic product

Tracy Hair Stylist

Call Tracy or any of our stylists now to book your appointment.

(337) 477-6868

NOVEMBER SPECIALS!

Av Spa c Fo aila e r R ble en t

WANT TO LOOK HEALTHY FROM THE INSIDE OUT? • Fake Bake Tan Extender package (to make your tan last longer) $45 package - Spray tan & Fake Bake Tantalizing self tan shea butter.

Or $25 for just the spray tan.

• Glow Signature Body Wraps starting at $75 Detoxifying, Hydrating, Calming, Energizing

(337) 477-2888

1 0 9 W. L A G R A N G E , L A K E C H A R L E S PAGE 8

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Camp Fire USA SWLA Council Receives Award Camp Fire USA Southwest Louisiana Council was one of three Camp Fire councils to be awarded $18,000 for exemplary practice in family strengthening

by Camp Fire USA/Annie E. Casey Foundation Families Count: Family Strengthening Awards. Camp Fire USA is a leading national youth organization that partners with the Annie E. Casey Foundation to support youth and families. Locally, Camp Fire has been working with the youth of Southwest Louisiana and surrounding areas proudly since 1914. Today, more than 7,500 youth from kindergarten through high school and their families participate annually in camp, in-school anti-violence programs, clubs, service-learning initiatives, and other life skills courses.

MSU Alumni are Recipients of Awards Two McNeese alumni have been named recipients of two McNeese Alumni Association awards—the Distinguished Alumnus Award and the Distinguished Service Award. Michael A. “Mike” Creel, president, chief executive officer and a director of Enterprise Products Partners LP of Houston, Texas, a leading North American provider of midstream energy services, has Michael A. “Mike” Creel been named the 2009 Distinguished Alumnus, while Damain A. Sullivan, vice president and team leader in the Energy Finance/Global Corporate Banking Unit at the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd. in Houston, has been named the recipient of the 2009 Distinguished Service Award. The recipients were also honored durDamain A. Sullivan ing halftime of the McNeese vs. Southeastern Louisiana football game.

Four Local Hospitals Get Achievement Awards A Certificate of Achievement Award for an Outstanding Mercury Minimization Program was presented to four Lake Charles hospitals on October 22 by the City of Lake Charles and Team Green of Southwest Louisiana. The hospitals are Christus St. Patrick Hospital, Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, LSUHCSD/W.O. Moss Regional Medical Center, and Women & Children’s Hospital. The Louisiana Health care Mercury Challenge Workshop, a free event held at the Civic Center, discussed mercury elimination for the health care sector and was a collaborative effort between the City of Lake Charles, Team Green of Southwest Louisiana (an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful and Keep Louisiana Beautiful) and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality.

Cameron State Bank Donates to Interview for Life Above: Cameron State Bank donated $10,000 to the Interview for Life Program. Shown left to right: Mechele Nortman, Interview for Life board member and program facilitator, Leslie Montgomery, program facilitator, Roy Raftery, Jr., President & CEO of Cameron State Bank, Angie Rowland, program facilitator, Sandi Ellender, Interview for Life board member, and Nikki Fontenot, Interview for Life director and program facilitator.

Volume 1 • Issue 16

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 9

Building Walls With ALCOA Recently, 22 volunteers including 17 ALCOANS brought their carpentry skills to The Children’s Museum. The volunteer work required the construction of several exhibits, including the building of the actual wall structures and the hanging and floating of sheet rock—part of the ongoing efforts to enable The Children’s Museum to reopen after the devastating fire earlier this year. The ALCOA foundation was able to donate a $3,000 Action Grant to the museum due to the ALCOANS volunteering their time. Participants included Mark and Holly Struble, Louis Sweet, John Sonnier, Jerry Sonnier, Jean-Yves Marcotte, Nicole Coutu, Jacques LePage, Donna Doucette, David and Maria Head, Russell Autin, Arthur Babineaux, Daniel Wetzel, Roger and Beth Vachon, Wade Cormier, David Ritchie, Randy and Melissa Naylor, Matt Brumwell and Kevin Boll.

700 E. Prien Lake Rd., Lake Charles • 478-3566 1511 Ruth St., Sulphur • 527-0057 JAM

from left to right: Claude Smart, Parish Engineer; Tim Conner, Assistant Parish Engineer; Mary Jo Bayles, DeQuincy City Planner; Sandy Treme, Police Juror, District 11; Mayor Lawrence Henagan, City of DeQuincy; Nicky Wall, Representative for Senator John Smith; Bryan Beam, Assistant Administrator, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury.

And a chance to WIN A 2010 Smart Car!

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Pine Forest Road To mark the official opening of Pine Forest Road, a dedication ceremony was recently held in DeQuincy at the intersection of Pine Forest Road and Highway 27. At 1.63 miles in length, Pine Forest Road provides motorists with an east-west connection from Edgerly-DeQuincy Road to Highway 27, and will help alleviate industrial-based traffic from traveling through residential areas nearby. The project took 14 months to complete and cost approximately $3.7 million dollars.

Get your loyalty card today at either location of 5 Star Sta or o the t e follow wing casinos: Silverstar or Lucky Sta ar in following Star M B Moss Bluff or Lucky Delta in Vinton..

Luck ar erst Silv sino Ca

De y Casilta no

tar ky S Luc asino C

Cameron Communications Public Relations Coordinator, Trina Johnson presenting the $500 check to Todd Little for the Alligator Invitational Bull Bash.

Five Star #1 2577 Hwy 171 N Lake Charles

Lucky Star Casino 2557 Hwy 171 N. Lake Charles

Five Star #2 1900 Sam Houston Jones Pkwy Lake Charles PAGE 10

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Lucky Delta Casino 1903 A West St. Vinton

Silverstar Casino 1922 Sam Houston Jones Pkwy Lake Charles

Cameron Communications Donates $500 to Alligator Bull Bash Cameron Communications Public Relations Coordinator Trina Johnson presented a check for $500 to Todd Little for the 2nd Annual Alligator Invitational Bull Bash. The event was held, Oct. 31, at the West Cal Arena in Sulphur. Proceeds from the event benefit Hackberry and Johnson Bayou Knights of Columbus. TJN Volume 1 • Issue 16

Doyle

By Jim

Threats from the Outside OK, campers, by the time you read this, the ghoulies and the ghosties will be gone. Everybody should have by now seen Paranormal Activity, and if you don’t have a roommate to look under the bed for monsters, be careful when you put your feet on the floor.

There is considerable background noise as I write this, generated by wind that rattles the windows of the 18th floor. My new office has a commanding view of the city and the lake. On pretty days, it’s wonderful. On stormy days, it’s majestic.

Today is a majestic day.

Halloween inevitably takes me back to when the kids were young and I carefully checked their candy for the odd needle or other contraband we were always afraid would be slipped in by a neighbor we didn’t know. You all have done the same thing. Of course, if you were like me, you ate your fair share of Halloween candy pilfered from your children’s bags.

Remember Pixie Stix? I remember when they were a staple of Halloween treats. They had everything you needed. Sweet, sugar, compact, easy to handle. Until the man that killed Halloween came to town.

One reason he stands out in my memory so much is that he was executed not long after I moved to Lake Charles. I vividly remember reading about it in The Houston Chronicle one Saturday while attending my oldest son’s soccer game. According to the Internet, that was March 31, 1984, the day Ronald Clark O’Bryan died at the hands of the state of Texas.

Mr. O’Bryan, you may remember, took out $20,000 life insurance poliVolume 1 • Issue 16

cies on his two children right before Halloween in 1974. He then doctored Pixie Stix by lacing them with potassium cyanide and gave them out during Halloween. He also made sure to give some of it to his own children. His eight-year-old son, Timothy, consumed the poisoned Pixie Stix and died as a result, which was O’Bryan’s macabre plan to get out of financial difficulty.

Fortunately, his daughter never ate any of the tainted candy.

My oldest son was three at the time this happened. He was my only child then. I still remember the first shock of recognition that there were people in the world who would intentionally hurt children, indiscriminately, for whatever reason.

After 1974, I don’t remember seeing Pixie Stix anywhere until relatively recently. Even now, I would never want one of my children to have one.

Another shock to our collective system came in 1982 with the Tylenol poisonings in the Chicago area. For those of you too young to remember, let me remind you how it went. Some unknown terrorist(s) (the murders are still unsolved) killed seven people by tampering with Extra Strength Tylenol Capsules, removing the Tylenol powder and replacing it with potassium cyanide. The capsules were then put back on the shelf. Whoever this maniac is (or was) you can thank him (or her) for the childproof, tamper-resistant, cellophanewrapped containers in which we now find everything from Brylcreem to shoe polish.

Every time I ride a train, I feel like I am riding a time machine, not least because you don’t have to take off

your shoes before you get on a train.

In fact, you don’t have to run your bags through an x-ray machine, although I’m sure it would be just as shocking if a well-placed hidden bomb blew up a train car or some madman took a revolver onto a train and used it to commandeer it for his own use, a la the old Steven Seagal movie.

The fact is that over my lifetime, numerous threats from outside forces (that is, outside ordinary everyday society) have gradually taken the edge off our confident belief that no one means us harm and the world is a happy place.

Most of the time it is. But there are wolves in the bushes and we must be aware of them.

I’m a big fan of the TV series “Dexter,” which stars Michael C. Hall as a serial killer with a wife and family who exterminates only bad guys and otherwise operates for the Miami City Police as a blood spatter expert, of all things. One of the plot lines of Dexter this year involves an FBI super agent named Frank Lundy who is chasing a shadowy killer played by John Lithgow, called “The

Trinity Killer.” Lithgow’s character shows up once every 30 years and kills three people, victims selected at random and killed out of nowhere.

As with any fictional story, this one has sting because it seems true, plausible, even expected to have an unknown force reaching out from the night to snatch the life away from an unsuspecting prey.

We have indeed come a long way as a society over the last 30 years.

But our advancement has not been without price. I think it is fair to say that in the years since the Candy Man killed his son, we have all, bit by bit, lost a little of our innocence and hardened, by considerable degree, our expectations.

We live in a world where Halloween is spooky for known and unknown reasons. There really are killers in our midst.

So let’s keep a wary eye out there as we go about our daily chores.

Play it safe and don’t eat too much candy.

See you guys on the flip. TJN

ELECTION DAY Saturday November 14 Polls Open 6 a.m. – 8 p.m.

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 11

Dang Yankee The

I

By Mike McHugh

Seat Belts

After my experience last evening, the seat belt has become my favorite invention of all time. It now easily eclipses the Pocket Fisherman.

If I had a medal to award, I’d give it to the person who invented the seat belt, whoever he is. By every right, he should be famous. His name should be right up there with all of those other renowned American inventors, such as Thomas Edison, Eli Whitney, and Michael Nesmith’s mother. (And if you don’t know who Michael Nesmith is or what his mother invented, I am so sorry for you that you missed out on the 1960s.)

I’m sure you’re all dying now to hear

about this experience that has so enamored me to these mere straps of cloth, but it’s because of them that I’m living today, and able to write about it to you, my dear friends.

It all went down like this. I was on my way home to Lake Charles from Houston, pulling my camper trailer behind me, minding my own business.

(I don’t know why bad things seem to always happen when you’re minding your own business. Does this somehow mean that busybodies never encounter any misfortune? That’s a disturbing thought.)

Anyhow, I had just got to Sulphur, on the home stretch if you will. Elvin

Bishop was singing “I Fooled Around and Fell in Love,” on the satellite radio. I was at peace with the world— well, most of it, anyhow. There are still people out there like the balloon boy’s parents.

My peace of mind was about to abruptly change. In this case, the change came in the form of a tractortrailer that whizzed by me in the next lane. At least, I think it was a tractortrailer. It went by so fast that it could have been one of Iran’s peaceful ballistic missiles. I really couldn’t be sure.

What I was sure of, however, was that its draft caught the back of my trailer and commenced it to wagging like a dog standing at a butcher shop window, only this tail happened to weigh a couple of tons. Talk about the tail wagging the dog—I was a Chihuahua with a Saint Bernard’s tail.

A few long seconds later, I found myself, still sitting, but in an upside down position in my overturned SUV. Through what was left of the windshield, I noticed a sea of headlights, meaning that I was also now facing the oncoming traffic. I was relieved, however, to observe that none of those headlights were getting any bigger.

My trusty seat belt managed to hold me in position throughout the

entire time.

Once I’d come to a stop and realized that I hadn’t become road kill, I unfastened the harness and managed to push a door open enough to crawl out.

Emerging from the wreckage, the next thing I saw was the gaping expressions on the faces of the several motorists who’d stopped to check on me. When they saw me actually walking, any one of them at that moment could have eaten a hard-boiled ostrich egg whole.

I recall every vivid detail of those few seconds. One curious thing that struck me was that my life never flashed before my eyes like you always hear it does. From this I concluded that either that’s all bull, or my life’s been just too boring to have any memories worth recalling.

My Yankee take on this was the sense of awe at the sheer number of motorists who’d stopped to check on me. All expressed concern and offered to help; that is, once they’d picked their chins up off the pavement. Their cell phones calls likely inundated every 911 center between here and Oklahoma.

One nice couple allowed me to sit in their vehicle to phone my wife and stayed with me until the emergency responders arrived.

I didn’t notice any lawyers carpooling behind my ambulance to the hospital, where I was being taken for “precautionary measures.” Of course, that could just have been because they couldn’t figure out who to sue in this case. Fat chance trying to get a settlement out of the President of Iran for firing that missile down I-10 the way he did. (Okay, so the President of Iran doesn’t like Elvin Bishop. What if I’d been listening to Ozzy, then?)

Although I’ve been a bit tongue-incheek here, I’m really serious about having a love affair with seat belts, and I believe that all of you readers should have one, too. Don’t worry that they won’t love you back; after all, we still love our kids when they’re teenagers, right? There have been too many stories in the news around here about lives than need not have been lost had people only taken a few seconds to buckle up.

So what if it wrinkles your shirt a little? I can iron my shirt; I can’t do that to my spine.

Mike McHugh is an engineer at Sasol North America, Inc. He and his wife Susan hail from the border state of Maryland and thoroughly love living in Southwest Louisiana. He is also the author of "Road Kill Gumbo," a newly created blog containing satire about news and life in Louisiana. You can find it on the Internet at www.roadkillgumbo.com. TJN

PAGE 12

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

MSU Fall Ring Ceremony The McNeese State University fall ring ceremony will be held at 2 p.m.

Nov. 8 in Parra Ballroom of the Student Union Annex. Alumni and students will receive their rings in a ceremony detailing the meaning and symbolism of the ring. The McNeese

official ring is available to all alumni, undergraduate students having earned a minimum of 75 hours while pursuing a baccalaureate degree, and degree candidates for the associate, master’s or specialist degree.

TJN

C-Gov Now on Channel Five on Suddenlink The Calcasieu Parish Government Channel (C-GOV) has moved to channel five in both Lake Charles and Sulphur for subscribers to Suddenlink Cable. The move, effective October 28, is part of a larger consolidation of lineups on Suddenlink. Assistant Parish Administrator Bryan Beam expressed his appreciation to Suddenlink for the change. “We are very pleased to have the Police Jury’s

Government Channel placed in the same location on both of Suddenlink’s systems in the Lake Charles and Sulphur areas,” he said. “It is also significant that the new channel location is included within the ‘Basic’ tier, making the Government Channel available to all Suddenlink subscribers.” The change does not affect subscribers to other cable services.

TJN

Health Care Reform Discussion with League of WoMen Voters The League of WoMen Voters will have Mike Bertaut, Sr. Healthcare Intelligence Analyst at Blue Cross Blue Shield of LA, discuss the proposed health care reform bill, on Fri., Nov. 20, at Reeves Uptown Catering located at 1639 Ryan Street in Lake Charles . The presentation will be followed by questions from the audience. The cost is $15 for members and $18 for nonmembers. The League urges the com-

munity to get informed on this very controversial issue.

Please make your reservation no later than 2 p.m. on Thurs., Nov. 19, by e-mailing President Kay Andrews at info@lwv-lc.org or calling 474-1864.

For additional information, contact: Lollion Elmer LWV Public Relations (337) 439-3896 Office (337) 436-8904 Fax TJN

Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon Set for November 11-13 Turn up the volume! The Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon is scheduled for Nov. 1113, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the GAP Broadcasting Stations. For 36 hours, the Gator 99.5, FUN Radio 92.9 The Lake, 107 JAMZ and KISS FM 92.1 airwaves will fill with inspirational stories of hope, courage and modern day medical miracles. Listeners will also hear live testimonies from CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital Department associates and physicians, community organization leaders and non-profit agencies that receive important funding through Volume 1 • Issue 16

the Children’s Miracle Network.

Radio listeners can call (337) 4377155 or log on to www.stpatrickfoundation.org during the live broadcast and make a donation to help the kids of Southwest Louisiana.

Funds raised through the Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon will stay local to help improve pediatric medical care services and health education opportunities throughout the Southwest Louisiana Region. For more information, call (337) 491-7750. TJN

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 13

Beat the “after Thanksgiving” rush…

Enjoy leisurely shopping in

The Cottage Shop District where you have front door parking.

Wine samples and refreshments available for your enjoyment while you shop. Each shop will be offering special sales and promotions for this event.

The

Life What’s For Dinner?

Kid Friendly Restaurants in the Lake Area

By Sara Blackwell

Remember when dining out was a romantic rendezvous with your significant other? The candlelight, good food and quiet atmosphere were certainly taken for granted before the kids arrived. Now, eating at those same restaurants became an impossible

PAGE 14

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

task of hushing the screams, chasing the toddler out of the kitchen and breastfeeding behind a blanket.

On top of the stress is the high cost of adding two or three kids’ meals to the ticket. Fortunately, there are restaurants that cater to children on a regular basis and others on a particular day, offering, among other things, discounts to the costs of their meals.

Even more fortunate than that, not all of those restaurants include a dollar menu or tasteless pizza.

Dairy Barn is a Southwest Louisiana favorite because of its exceptional hamburgers and the fun experience it offers children.

Kids love the train that runs around the restaurant while they eat, as well as the train whistle

Volume 1 • Issue 16

they get to pull. Each child is awarded a free ice cream with sprinkles and is given the opportunity to eat their cold treat at an old-fashioned ice cream bar.

The menu includes old-time malts, shakes and good old- fashioned Borden’s ice cream. The big, juicy hamburgers are made from fresh meat that is ground every morning. But it is the large Texas Toast cheese sandwich that brings this vegetarian mother there as often as possible. With locations in Sulphur, on Ryan Street in Lake Charles, and a new store opening on Nelson Road, the Dairy Barn is enjoyable, delicious and conveniently located.

Texas Roadhouse is also a fun place to take children for good food and a stress-free experience.

The music is loud, the country atmosphere distracts young children and the staff is easygoing.

There are peanuts and hot rolls to keep little tummies (and big tummies!) satisfied during the wait for food.

In addition to their regular offerings, every Monday night is kid’s night. With each regular entrée, a kid’s meal is free of charge. And while the children eat, the restaurant has a staff member that paints faces and creates balloon animals. This set-up keeps both parents and kids happy. Almost as happy as those long-ago days of the romantic rendezvous – but not quite!

Buffalo Wild Wings in Lake Charles offers delicious wings and a special night for children. Every Wednesday, there are cartoons playing on the flat screen televisions and kids are given crowns to wear showing their status at the table! On various weeks, a Buffalo named Blaze appears to greet the children. All of the items on the kid’s meals menu are $1.99 every hump day.

If your family is not in the mood for wings, Casa Manana is a tasty choice for Mexican food any day of the week. However, Casa Manana is a great place to try on Mondays because kids eat free (two kid’s meals free per adult entrée). The restaurant is full of large families, so there is no need to worry about your

child’s noise level or tendency to run rampant around the table.

Free kid’s meal or not, Casa Manana is a great choice for any age.

If Mondays and Wednesdays are not convenient days to dine out, Que Pasa offers .99 cent-kid’s meals every Tuesday (two kids meals per adult entrée). The food is delicious and the adult entrees are very affordable. The atmosphere is relaxing, with plenty of

space for children to move around. There are several games at the front of the restaurant for kids to play while waiting for food. Que Pasa is conveniently located on Nelson Road so it is a great place to visit while running errands.

Of course, there are also many wonderful non-kid restaurants.

Every now and then, it’s nice to leave your munchkins with your parents or a babysitter and revisit

Save the Children’s Museum Fund

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

those days of romantic trysts with your spouse. When planning a special date with your significant other, be sure to avoid the restaurants that have a daily kid’s meal special. It would be a disaster to spend your intimate night surrounded by someone else’s wild children! TJN

0 0 0 , 50

$4

So far, $229,759.44 has been raised! The museum would like to thank all of you who have contributed, including the following:

4 4 .

9 ,75

Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau Junior League of Lake Charles, Inc. Calcasieu Parish Police Jury City of Lake Charles City of Sulphur Tadlock William & Katherine Blake Waste Management Cameron State Bank Sempra Energy Global Enterprises First Federal Bank of Louisiana Charleston Gallery and Antiques Wal-mart (Nelson) Wal-Mart Store # 521 (English Bayou) k you Lake Area Model Railroaders Than : s y a s Crawford Orthodontics Inc. I look uana Atlantic Scaffolding Company the Ig port, and f you y g g p o I g all ur su Devall Towing & Boat Service for yo d to seein !

Judge Guy E. Bradberry r e a forw new hom Kiwanis Club of Calcasieu my n i M.N. Davidson Foundation Senator Willie L. Mount Honeywell W.R. Grace

9 2 2 $

Ad Sponsored by The Jambalaya News Volume 1 • Issue 16

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 15

Jewelry Design • Jewelry Repair Diamonds & Gemstones • Pearl Restringing Eye Glass Soldering • Gifts • Watch Repair Effusion Lamps • Miche Purses Orleans Home Fragrances

By Steve Springer M.D.

A Creative Jewelry Tradition Since 1990

The Holidays (Calories) Are Here – How to Make it Through!

What a wonderful time of year this is. Cool air finally pushes the hot humid air back into the Gulf and we get some California days. What we also have to look forward to is heaping mounds of fat and calories rolling our way…in the form of tailgating, having a few beers watching the football game at home, eating your Mom’s famous caramel pie at Thanksgiving (after plates of fried turkey), Christmas dinner and New Year’s parties. Wrap all that feasting up with Mardi Gras, and you’ve had a pretty good run there. A run, that is, of unbelievable salt and empty calorie intake that can be hard to burn off.

First of all, let’s look at some hard numbers on weight loss. A pound of fat is about 3,500 calories. To lose 1 pound of fat in a week, you have to eat 3,500 fewer calories (that is, 500 fewer calories a day), or you have to “burn off ” an extra 3,500 calories. You can do this by exercising, or just by being more active.

The best way to lose weight and keep it off is to combine the either/or statement above …eat fewer calories and burn off calories. If you cut 250 calories from your diet each day and exercise enough to burn off 250 calories, that adds up to 500 fewer calories in one day. If you do this for 7 days, you can lose 1 pound of fat in a week.

There are a lot of fad diets out there, but they all have one thing in common. It really all boils down to cutting calories! There is a great book you have probably heard of that I recommend to all my patients considering a weight loss or weight maintenance program: Calorie King Calorie, Fat and Carbohydrate Counter by Allan Borushek. This book keeps up with most chain restaurants and shows you calorie, fat, and carbohydrate counts for most foods and serving sizes. It also has a great Web site where you can look up just about any food you are considering eating…and even more interesting is seeing how much you would have to exercise to burn the amount of calories contained in that food—down to the minute of walking, running, swimming, etc.

I hope the above information gives you a way of keeping a rein on your calorie intake during the holidays. Just this past week, I had a patient complaining about how he wasn’t loosing weight. I simply asked, “Well what did you have for breakfast today?” He replied, “Just two biscuits with nothin’ on ‘em.”

Calorie King’s answer for his calorie intake (about 200 calories) is 54 minutes of walking, 22 minutes of jogging, 16 minutes of swimming, or 30 minutes of cycling. None of which was he planning on that day.

Good luck this holiday season, and if all else fails, eat half! That’s an easy way to eat fewer calories and still get a little taste of the holiday fun.

TJN PAGE 16

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

By George “Tip” Cline

New and Improved Means Open Your Wallet Keeping the bathroom clean is never a fun activity. Scrubbing Bubbles made a wand for the toilet, which had little sponge-like removable pads with some kind of chemical stuff in them. Well, try to find some of those refills. They’re not on the shelves of Wal-Mart (aka the Great Satan), Albertson’s, Sam’s, etc. But everywhere, there are new and different cleaning wands with their own different little cleaning pads that only fit theirs. Can’t wait to see how long it takes for them to disappear, to be replaced by a new wand with their own refills.

I notice that Swiffer Wet Jet is also new and improved. The only thing is, the refill for the old model isn’t the same as the refill for the current model. Now, where oh where have we heard that before? Gosh oh gee, I guess you have to buy the new one because I can’t find the refills for the old. Those manufacturers sure have our best interests at heart, don’t they?

Less for your money Grocery shopping is something that I enjoy doing. Yeah, I’m a guy and that’s an activity usually associated with the fairer sex, but I love looking for bargains, deals and good values.

It never ceases to amaze me how manufacturers find new and exciting ways to give you less for your money.

We’re all familiar with the 14-ounce pound by now, and the short case of cold drinks and beer. Take a look at a can of chili that looks like the size of a Coke—makes you think it’s an individual serving.

A friend of mine was making pork chop spaghetti for supper. She uses 2 jars of Classico, into which she adds all kinds of good stuff to jazz it up.

The first jar came from her pantry Volume 1 • Issue 16

and was 26 ounces; the second jar was just purchased, and low and behold, it was 24 ounces. Thanks again for screwing the public.

A little kindness While waiting in line at the grocery store to check out, I was behind a lady who noticed that I only had three items. Since she had a full cart, she told me to go ahead of her. That little kindness made me feel good. It didn’t really delay her very much, but I’m sure she felt good about herself after doing a nice thing for a stranger.

It’s reassuring that there are people out there who are unselfish.

Sometimes, it costs nothing to put a smile on someone’s face.

Fruit of the vine Banner’s Rouge et Blanc seems to have helped wine lovers in Lake Charles. Just about every store that sells the fruit of the vine sure looks like they have put a lot of good wines on sale. Our area has become more wine aware over the last decade or so, thanks to the efforts of Will Fontenot, D. C. Flynt and others with wine classes and tastings. The wine purveyors have responded with better selections and more attractive pricing.

We are going into the holiday season when prices usually get more customer-friendly, but Rouge et Blanc sure kicked it into gear earlier this year. And isn’t it nice that science has found health benefits from a glass of red wine?

McNeese cheerleader. It’s a nice asset for us to have businesses that promote community participation. Sure, they are looking for sales, but offering events like this, where it costs nothing to participate, nice prizes are awarded and everyone is passing a real good time makes everyone a winner. I know that there are other merchants that hold similar kinds of promotions.

It only makes good sense to patronize the ones that give back to our community.

Keep it safe out there A reader responded to last issue’s discussion on speed traps, stating that Lake Charles drivers tend to add ten m.p.h. to the posted speed limit. I personally do not find that to be the case, but he is certainly entitled to his opinion. He stated that people in the Northwest obey speed limits in a markedly different way from us, as he travels to that area every year. Now, I have traveled some in Montana, Nebraska, Colorado, the Dakotas and Nevada and find that traffic seems to move extra rapidly in those areas, if you know what I mean.

He also remarked how he finds that traffic out of Houston moves faster as you proceed to the east. In

my travels in Texas, it seems that their drivers go much faster than the limit posted. And when I’m going down the Interstate here, it’s usually a Texas vehicle that is passing everyone else.

No matter what, the message is and will always be: Drive safely. Get the cell phone out of your ear (go hands-free), watch out for those school zones, and pay attention to your driving. I have an old friend who would always say, “If they would only drive!” whenever someone was dawdling along and not paying attention to their driving.

We all know roads where the speed limit just doesn’t feel right, but the law is the law. We have personal responsibility for our actions. If you’re going to belong to the 70-mile-anhour club, you’re going to have to pay your dues, sooner or later. As they used to say on Hill Street Blues, “Keep it safe out there.”

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

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

A UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE AWAITS YOU AT LAKE CHARLES’ ONLY WATERFRONT RESTAURANT.

Located at 1103 West Prien Lake Rd., Lake Charles, LA

(337) 478-7795

Sun. – Thurs. 11am until 10pm ~ Fri. and Sat. 11am until 11pm

“Rock the Dock”

Friday, November 6th • 6pm until 10pm Live music on the patio

Merchant promotions I was invited to be a judge in Petco’s annual Howl-O-Ween Pet Costume Contest. What fun it was to see all the different pets in costume.

There was even a young lady who brought her pet rabbit dressed as a NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 17

The Saturday Sports Injury Clinic at Memorial Hospital is a comprehensive, one-stop approach to the diagnosis and treatment of sports injuries. The clinic is open from 8 a.m. to noon every Saturday during football season at Orthopaedic Specialists, 3rd floor, 1717 Oak Park Blvd., adjacent to Memorial Hospital. No appointment necessary. Parking is available in the hospital’s elevated parking facility The types of injuries seen at the Saturday sports clinic are often fractures, ankle sprains, knee injuries, and hip injuries. It is open to all athletes, regardless of age, who have been injured in any sport.

Dr. David Drez, orthopedic surgeon and the associate director of sports medicine at Memorial has been joined by Dr. Brett Cascio, orthopedic surgeon and Memorial’s new medical

PAGE 18

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

director of sports medicine, who was fellowshiptrained in sports medicine at the prestigious Steadman-Hawkins Clinic in Vail, Colorado, along with Dr. Scott Hofer, one of the first 500 orthopedists nationwide to receive a subspecialty certification in Sports Medicine through the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.

Using the latest highspeed technology, the sports medicine specialists can x-ray an injury and have the results in minutes so treatment can begin in the shortest amount of time. For more information, call Orthopedics Specialists at (337) 494-4900. TJN

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Ayanna Dixon

The Jambalaya News Readers are Winners!

The Jambalaya News exhibited at the Women’s Commission Conference recently. Our trusty sales team was there, handing out Jam note pads and copies of our latest issue. If you stopped by our booth (what do you think of our new backdrop?), you also had an opportunity to win a coffeemaker and gift basket. Ayanna Dixon, who’s an administrative assistant at United Way of SWLA, was the lucky winner of our prize.

Congratulations, Ayanna!

We would also like to congratulate Mark Hardin, Sandra Ancelet, Jeanne Pugh, Sarah Blanchard, Jeff Harper, Kristin Draper and Shirley Miller, who all won a family pack of tickets to the Haunted Hotel, in Beaumont, Texas, for correctly identifying the misplaced advertisement in the Oct. 8 issue. We’re sure they had a hauntingly good time!

TJN

The aroma of holiday spices, candy canes, sugar gumdrops, and gingerbread will soon swirl through the air. The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau knows that nothing says Christmas quite like gingerbread houses!

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Jennifer Burke, Cheryl Billiot, Sandra Ancelet, Michael Ancelet, Chad Ancelet, Doug Billiot, Brian Barbee and Jason Domingue at the Haunted Hotel.

Janet, Briley, Ethan and Erin English with Mark Harden at the Haunted Hotel in Beaumont.

Entry forms are now available for the Annual Gingerbread House Contest to be held at noon Sat., Dec. 5, in conjunction with the Lake Charles Annual Christmas Lighting Festival. Sponsored by the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, the contest and awards ceremony will be held at the bureau located at 1205 North Lakeshore Drive in Lake Charles. Entry divisions include amateur, professional and school groups.

Southwest Louisiana’s very own mascot, Gumbeaux Gator, will help present the awards on Dec. 5. The Gingerbread Houses will remain on display at the bureau throughout the month of December, and all visitors during that time will be able to vote on the People’s Choice Award to be announced Tues., Dec. 29, at the bureau.

The deadline for entering the contest is Nov. 16. Entries must be delivered to the Convention & Visitors Bureau between 1-4:30 p.m., Fri., Dec. 4.

For registration information, contact the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, at 436-9588 or visit www.visitlakecharles.org. TJN

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 19

www.savvyandsage.com

WHY DIRECT MAIL PRODUCES • Allows you to communicate with an individual on a one-on-one basis, thus reaching your target audience.

A fresh, direct-mailed publication devoted to the Boomers!

Savvy & Sage is full of clever articles, tasty recipes, insightful news on health and medicine, and creative ideas and tips.

• Enables you to control who receives your message, when they receive it and how many people you reach.

• Verifies who gets your message.

Want to reach the Boomers?

Call (337) 436-7800 to inquire about Savvy & Sage’s advertising opportunities.

Ext. 111 for Faye Drake Ext. 102 for Lazette Procter Ext. 101 for Katy Corbello

• Provides a tangible product in the consumer’s home or office.

• Provides a way to target a very specific audience!

Or visit www.savvyandsage.com.

PAGE 20

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

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

What’s Cookin’ My Mom’s Best Recipe

I was so very fortunate to have an Italian mother who was, simply, a fantastic cook. Mom collected cookbooks and recipes and was constantly trying something new. A week before she died, I found her watching the Food Network and jotting down a recipe. She was so ill that she had been unable to cook for months and could barely eat, but, to the very end, her interest in creating wonderful meals for her friends and family never waned.

Below is probably my favorite recipe of hers. Saltimbocca literally means, “Pop in the mouth” in Italian slang, in reference to the bite-sized pieces. I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as my Dad and I did. The photo shows sage leaves, but her recipe calls for ground sage, and that’s what she always used. And, you can substitute chicken for My mother (left) and her sister veal if you’d prefer. TJN Jeannette on their first trip to Rome in 1953.

Saltimbocca Alla Romana Ingredients 2 pounds veal cutlets, sliced very thin 1 teaspoon sage 1/4 pound prosciutto, sliced thin 3 tablespoons butter salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons water Large frying pan

and place meat in it. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Cook over high heat for a few minutes on each side until the veal is well-browned.

Place the slices of cooked meat on a serving dish with prosciutto facing up. Add water to contents of frying pan and scrape bottom well. Add the rest of the butter and mix well over low heat.

Pour gravy over meat.

Serves six.

Enjoy!

Preparation Cut veal cutlets into pieces about 5 inches square (my mother actually cut them smaller). On each piece, sprinkle a little of the sage and place a slice of prosciutto around the same size on top. Keep it in place on the veal with a toothpick.

Melt two tablespoons of butter in the frying pan Volume 1 • Issue 16

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 21

By Lisa Yates

Agri-tourism is the New Cash Crop at CM Farms When Chuck Melsheimer opened his corn maze business last year, he was shocked to hear some of the questions visitors asked.

“I’ve had people come out to the farm and see horns on cows, thinking they were bulls,” he said. “Then they would ask: ‘If both have horns, how can you tell the difference between a cow and a bull?’ It’s not just kids asking these questions. It’s 45 year-old people.”

So Melsheimer, 39, and his wife Jackie, 33, have made it their mission to reintroduce visitors to agriculture by opening CM Farms at 105 Vickers Avenue in Reeves, La. “We want to bridge the gap between youth and agriculture,” he said. “There’s a huge disconnect between the general population and agriculture. Most people that come out to the farm have never been to a place without sidewalks and concrete.”

If you visit CM Farms, you won’t find any sidewalks. Instead, you’ll

PAGE 22

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

find plenty of fun on the farm.

Some of the agri-tourism offerings include a five-acre corn maze, a country market, a barrel train ride, farm animals, rubber duck races and a hayride.

CORN MAZE The CM Farms maze is a labyrinth of twists, turns and dead ends – all carved into a field of sorghum with stalks taller than your head.

You can see this year’s corn maze creation, called “God’s Country,” on the farm’s Web site: www.cmfarmsllc.com.

The maze is open now through November 29, with tickets available at the farm or online. Cost is $10, for ages 12 to 64; $8, for children ages 4 to 11, and seniors age 64 and older. Children age 3 and younger get in free.

Hours are 5 to 9 p.m., Friday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday; and, 1 to 5 p.m., Sunday.

CM Farms owner Chuck Melsheimer If you go, Melsheimer recommends dressing as if you are going camping; that includes wearing good walking shoes.

He said unforeseen weather conditions can force the maze to close at any time. If you want to check weather conditions before heading out to the farm, call (337) 666-2280, or check the farm’s “Weather Magnet” on its Web site.

Melsheimer said he expects the maze to do well this again year.

“That’s if the weather cooperates,” he said, noting the recent heavy rainfall. “People are looking for good, clean, wholesome family fun. It’s gratifying to hear people come up and say ‘Thank you for doing this because there’s nothing for kids to do.’ Anyone age 90 to 9 months, can come here.”

COUNTRY MARKET CM Farms Country Market is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Sunday, selling fresh seasonal produce, drinks and snacks, SportMix pet food and other farmfresh goodies. The store also caters to area sportsmen with sales of deer corn, soy beans and rice bran.

Melsheimer grows cantaloupe and watermelon in the spring and summer – along with other crops.

“We’re known for our cantaloupes,” he said. “We sell every-

thing at our produce stand. A lot of people come by to buy our produce and resell it.”

He said when the field isn’t producing cantaloupes and watermelons, hay is grown and it becomes a pasture for the 250 cows raised on the farm. In the fall, the pasture makes way for the maze.

Melsheimer said funds from the farm’s produce stand financed the maze business. Before launching into the maze business, the Melsheimers did some research.

“We had all of the equipment, so we started exploring the possibilities,” he said. “My wife came up with a lot of ideas and we researched it. We wanted to create a first-class operation, where people will want to come back and bring their families.”

He said they are still coming up with new ideas. In fact, they are planning a big Easter egg hunt this spring!

A BARREL TRAIN RIDE The younger crowd can take a ride on the “Animal Farm” barrel train. It’s called “Animal Farm” because the barrels are painted like farm animals. They are fastened together, forming train cars, and pulled by Jackie driving a tractor through the farm.

Rides cost $1 each. However, cash is not accepted. You must purchase “Maze Money” tickets in

Volume 1 • Issue 16

advance, at the concession stand, for this and other courtyard activities.

The barrel train is popular with students on field trips, including Bridget Davis’ Pre-K class at Vinton Elementary School. Her class recently visited the farm to learn about agriculture.

“Our class is learning about the life cycle of pumpkins, so we are here to see the pumpkins on the farm,” she said.

Melsheimer said each field trip student receives a small pumpkin to take home and a coupon for free admission to come back during weekend hours. He said field trip hours are from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday.

FARM ANIMALS Of course, to have an authentic farm experience, you have to have farm animals. Since CM Farms is a real farm, there are plenty to see, including the commercial, crossbred cattle that are available for sale year-round.

Four-year-olds Tucker Corbello and Logan Beard enjoyed petting one of the cows on the farm during their recent field trip with Vinton Elementary School.

“He’s big,” Tucker said.

Also, the children got to see Gulf Coast Sheep, which are raised on the farm.

The American Sheep Industry Association considers the Gulf Coast Sheep one of the oldest breeds of sheep in North America.

It is believed that these sheep developed from sheep that the Spanish first brought to the southeastern United States in the 1500s.

One of the most amazing sights on the farm is Ole Lefty, the resident Longhorn with some really big horns! His sidekick is WhiteFace, an Angus crossbred family pet.

In addition, there were chickens, goats and bunny rabbits for children to see and feed.

RUBBER DUCK RACES Children in Davis’ class got a taste of what it was like in the olden times by pumping a pitcher pump and, at the same time, competed in rubber duck races.

Melsheimer, a native of Plaquemine, La., told The Jambalaya News how he ended up on a farm in Reeves.

“When I graduated from L.S.U., I moved to Reeves for a woman and a job, but I got neither,” he joked. “Eventually, I met my wife and fell in love. So here I am.”

It will take you by the pumpkins that CM Farms planted especially for L.S.U., and then you’ll cross a creek on a little bridge, which Katy Corbello (Tucker’s mom) said was scary!

The hayride is where you’ll see a herd of the farm’s crossbred cows.

You’ll also see bulls, donkeys and a mule on the ride.

Melsheimer said he’s always had a passion for agriculture, but he never dreamed he’d be in the corn maze business.

“My father-in-law taught me the value of diversification,” he said.

Melsheimer added the maze has been a hit with visitors.

“We’ve had 2,500 people come through to date,” he said.

For more information, call CM Farms at (337) 666-2280; or visit at 105 Vickers Avenue in Reeves, La., online at www.cmfarmsllc.com.

TJN

HAYRIDE If you want to experience a hayride like no other, climb aboard one of sugarcane wagons Melsheimer pulls with a giant tractor.

Chuck Melsheimer, owner, drives the tractor pulling sugarcane wagons for the hayride.

Volume 1 • Issue 16

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 23

PAGE 24

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

The Kiwanis Club of Lake Charles presents Jackson Square West, the Antique, Art and Handicraft Fair at the Lake Charles Civic Center Nov. 6-8.

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time.

Historically the largest arts & craft show in SWLA and SE Texas, this year’s show has a fresh look with a new emphasis on art, and added events to attract an even larger audience. Innovations include a live entertainment stage with programs to captivate adults and children alike, a kid’s crafting area, a Beignet Café and Fine Art Gallery. This year’s featured artist is Elton Louviere.

Visit New Orleans Without Leaving Lake Charles!

SPONSORED BY KIWANIS CLUB OF SOUTH LAKE CHARLES

Volume 1 • Issue 16

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 25

Jackson Square 5K run Saturday 8:30am Preregister 7:30am

Story by Lisa Yates Photos by Michelle LaVoie

A one-on-one approach to physical, occupational and speech therapy is now available in Southwest Louisiana. You can find it at Hope Therapy Center in Lake Charles.

Physical Therapist Kim Anderson and Speech-language Pathologist Sonya Brooks created the clinic, giving area patients the option of customized treatment without leaving town. They say each patient deserves one-on-one personalized attention from a licensed therapist.

“In creating this clinic, our goal has been to provide the best evidence based therapy to our patients,” said Brooks, cofounder of Hope Therapy Center. “Our patients can expect to see a licensed therapist for the duration of their treatment. We do not employ technicians or unlicensed personnel for patient care.”

Last year in September, between Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, Brooks and Anderson opened the 2,700square-foot center at 1717 E. Prien Lake Road, Suite 1, in Lake Charles.

They divided their state-of-the-art facility into two separate areas to serve both adult and pediatric patients.

For adult patients, the center has a large open gym with four private treatment rooms, equipped with high-low treatment tables for manual therapy. In the pediatric area, there’s a large space divided into treatment zones: a floor play area for stretching; stairs and a slide for gross motor therapy; swings for vestibular therapy; and, low tables for a variety of fine motor exercises. There are also two private treatment areas for speech therapy and handwriting patients.

Besides offering a full array of occupational and physical therapy, as well as speech-language pathology services, for people of all ages and abilities, Hope Therapy Center is the only clinic in the area to offer tracheoesophageal puncture and prosthesis (TEP) training, according to Brooks.

“The co-creator of this device, Dr. Blom, invites a maximum of 10 therapists per session to participate in his training seminars and I was chosen for the December seminar,” she said. “This is an important service for those patients who have had laryngeal cancer and have had to undergo laryngectomy –

Owners Sonya Brooks, front left, MA, CCC-SLP, and Kim Anderson, PT, DPT, with Mika Doucet, LOTR, MOT, back left, Emily Pelican, MS, CFSLP, and Jill Willis, PTA, of Hope Therapy Center.

PAGE 26

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

surgical removal of the voice box.”

Brooks said in the past, patients had to learn a new way of speaking: either by esophageal speech, commonly referred to as burp speech; or, by using an electronic device.

“With TEP, verbal communication can easily be re-established, which allows the patient to regain the confidence to interact with his, or her, family and friends,” she said.

By offering a continuum of care, customized therapy, and access to the latest advances in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, Hope Therapy’s team stands ready to help patients return to their optimal level of function and good health.

Physical therapy If you break your arm, suffer a stroke or undergo a total knee joint replacement, chances are your doctor will refer you for physical therapy.

Anderson said pediatricians, general practitioners, orthopedists, neurologists and other physicians regularly refer patients to Hope Therapy Center.

“We regularly receive referrals for patients who are returning home from treatment initiated in Texas, as well,” she said.

For example, Anderson and her team recently worked with a young patient, who came from Texas Children’s Hospital.

“Mika (Doucet) and I had the pleasure of working with a 14-yearold patient who came to us from Texas Children’s Hospital after several months in the hospital with debility due to severe respiratory compromise,” she said. “He still had a tracheotomy, was on oxygen 24 hours-aday and was on a vent at night, when he began therapy with us. He progressed to where he was completely weaned from the vent, the trach was removed, and he was able to ride a bike for 20 minutes by the time he was discharged – after two months of therapy.”

Anderson said the patient was wonderful to work with and highlymotivated to succeed.

“I was constantly revising goals because this patient continued to exceed my expectations,” she said.

“That’s how it is with therapy outcomes – the sky’s the limit with a motivated patient.”

Anderson is board certified with a doctorate in physical therapy. She is also the former director for Physical Therapy Specialists of Baton Rouge, a clinic specializing in manual therapy.

She is excited to provide her patients with the latest, most innovative technology.

“We are fortunate to have an unloading apparatus which can be used to help adults and children walk without having to support his, or her,

entire bodyweight,” she said. “It is like the machine you may have seen Christopher Reeve use in rehab. It can be used in conjunction with a treadmill or it can roll on the floor to allow the patient to walk at his, or her, own pace.”

Also, Anderson said she is excited to have Jill Willis as a staff member at Hope Therapy Center.

“Jill Willis is a licensed physical therapy assistant; and, she especially enjoys helping patients who have had falls and need work on improving balance,” she said. “She has had extensive experience with pre- and postsurgical hip, knee, foot/ankle and shoulder conditions.”

According to Anderson and her staff, you have the right to choose where you receive therapy.

“People may not realize this, but a patient has the right to choose where he or she attends therapy,” she said.

“Ask your doctor for a referral to the clinic of your choice by name.”

Anderson said medical insurance does pay for therapy services.

“We have two experienced insurance personnel on staff who verify benefits and file insurance,” she said.

“If a patient has questions about what his or her insurance covers, our staff would be very happy to answer those questions.”

Hope Therapy Center’s office manager is Cindy

Istre. She, or Cyndy Lirette, the administrative assistant, can be reached at (337) 478-5880, for questions about insurance benefits.

In addition to physical therapy services, Hope Therapy Center’s comprehensive array of outpatient rehabilitation also includes occupational therapy, speech and language pathology services, and even pet therapy!

Occupational therapy Some people may think that occupational therapy is only for adults; children, after all, do not have occupations. But according to the American Occupational Therapy Association, kids with the following medical problems may benefit from OT: • Birth injuries or defects • Sensory processing/ integrative disorders • Traumatic injuries (brain or spinal chord) • Learning problems • Autism • Pervasive developmental disorders • Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis • Mental health or behavioral problems • Broken bones or other orthopedic injuries • Developmental delays • Post-surgical conditions • Burns

Kim Anderson works with a physical therapy patient.

Volume 1 • Issue 16

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 27

The pediatric area.

A private treatment room.

PAGE 28

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

• Spina bifida • Traumatic amputations • Cancer • Severe hand injuries • Multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and other chronic illness Maximizing the patient’s level of independence is the goal of occupational treatment at Hope Therapy Center.

Brooks said the staff works with patients of all ages to aid in improving skills required to perform daily tasks at home, work, school or play.

“Our occupational therapist, Mika Doucet, is certified to access and treat using The Listening Program and Brain Gym,” she said.

“She is an amazing asset to our autism treatment team.”

Speech therapy When children’s ability to communicate lags way behind that of their peers, there may be reason for concern and a need to attend to the matter. Although Einstein reportedly did not talk until he was three, parents should not be lulled into a false sense of security that the genius within will emerge when the child is ready.

Speech and language difficulties can have many causes, including an undetected hearing impairment, poor oral muscle tone or coordination, or a neurological disorder like Asperser’s syndrome, a mild form of autism, or apraxia, a breakdown in the transmission of messages from the brain to the muscles in the jaw, cheeks, lips, tongue and palate.

If you think your child may benefit from speech therapy, talk to your doctor to see if speech-language pathology services are in order.

In addition to providing physical and occupational therapy, Hope Therapy Center provides speech-language pathology services – sometimes known as speech therapy. A speech therapist assesses the speech and language needs of an individual and provides activities that help to develop and enhance the communication process. The goal of speech therapy is to develop functional and supportive communication for an individual.

Speech therapy focuses on, but is not limited to, the following areas: speech, language, voice, fluency, swallowing, and cognitive skills. People who can benefit from speech therapy include those with: stroke (CVA), transient ischemic attacks (TIA), traumatic

Volume 1 • Issue 16

brain injury, chronic head injury, developmental/congenital disorders, multiple sclerosis, ALS Parkinson’s, and children with speech and language difficulties.

Brooks said a patient who comes to receive speech-related services at Hope Therapy Center will undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a licensed speech-language pathologist, who will develop an individualized treatment program in order to meet the individual’s clinical and personal goals.

“We provide a comprehensive treatment program, including the use of VitalStim, for patients with swallowing dysfunction,” she said. “We provide augmentative communication evaluations for adults who are unable to communicate verbally and may need a communication board.”

Brooks is a certified clinical speech-language pathologist with a master’s degree in Communication Disorders. She has been practicing in Southwest Louisiana for more than 10 years. Her wealth of experience in various health care settings makes a real difference to patients.

In addition, Brooks added another speechlanguage pathologist to the staff.

“Emily Pelican joined our staff in August,”

Volume 1 • Issue 16

she said. “Part of her work is helping children learn to speak with the aid of communication devices.”

Brooks said it is very rewarding helping patients with speech and language difficulties.

“Our office received a call this week from the son of a patient I had seen for one session,” she said. “During that session, we were able to identify some specific problems that were preventing him from speaking with his TEP device. His son was so excited to be able to talk to his father on the phone for the first time in seven years!”

Pet therapy Hope Therapy Center has some very special volunteers to help with patients – therapy dogs.

Brooks said pet therapy dogs are provided

by Therapy Dogs Inc., and have volunteered at hospitals, libraries, schools and nursing homes. She said therapy dogs motivate the patients to work hard while having fun.

“Some patients – children and adults – are more motivated by interacting with the dogs and walk just a little farther, reach a little farther or stand just a little longer when a dog is involved,” she said. “They also are more

Sonya Brooks works with a patient.

Mika Doucet is Hope’s occupational therapist.

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 29

www.aposhplan.com

poshplan@inbox.com

Sonya Brooks uses a therapy dog to work with a young patient.

soiree & special event design • planning • production management • organizing • staging • menu development

from the unique to the chic We Can Handle All Your Special Occassions Contact Bree Robinson For Your Consultation

337.214.3966

PAGE 30

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

inclined to talk to and about the dog which helps with speech therapy.”

Opening the clinic Hope Therapy Center is a joint effort between Brooks and Anderson.

Both had thriving careers prior to starting their own venture, but decided it was time to strike out on their own.

“I was so fortunate to work for a local speech therapy company for over 10 years,” Brooks said. “With that company, I worked in a variety of settings – long-term rehabilitation hospitals – in towns from DeQuincy and Rosepine to Lake Charles. I gained valuable experience and hated to leave such a wonderful company. But the idea of opening an outpatient clinic has always appealed to me.”

Brooks said she envisioned a place where therapists treated the whole patient without being discipline specific.

“Opening our own clinic has allowed us to hand-pick those therapists who share our vision and our ethics,” she said. “Yet, we still challenge each other to try new and innovative approaches to treatment.”

Anderson said it was Brooks who approached her with the idea of going into business.

“I think most people have thought of creating the work environment in which they have always wanted to work,” she said. “Sonya and her husband approached me in January, 2008, with the idea of creating this clinic. My husband and I discussed it ad nauseam and I took my time to decide since it was such a huge undertaking; but I began to help them with the preparations while I was deciding. Sonya says that she knew I was onboard when I showed her ideas of artwork for the walls. I had been approached many times in the past and this was the only time that it really felt right.”

To learn more about Hope Therapy Center, call (337) 478-5880, or visit the Web site: www.hopetherapycenter.net.

The clinic is located at 1717 E. Prien Lake Road, Suite 1, in Lake Charles.

Hours are 8 a.m.-noon, and 1-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. TJN

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Story by Lisa Yates The therapists at Hope Therapy Center appreciate that the quality of patient care depends on their commitment and expertise.

Kim Anderson and Sonya Brooks, co-owners and founders of Hope Therapy Center, along with their staff of therapists, hold advanced degrees and are constantly updating their skills in order to provide the best possible treatment for patients. They are dedicated to utilizing proven and emerging techniques that are based on sound, scientific principles and evidence-based research.

SONYA BROOKS, MA, CCC-SLP Speech-language pathologist and Co-founder of Hope Therapy Center Sonya graduated in 1995 from Louisiana Tech University with dual bachelor’s degrees in Speech Pathology and Child Life and Family Studies. She graduated in 1997, with a master’s degree in the field of communication disorders at the University of Louisiana in Monroe. She has held both ASHA and Louisiana certification since graduation. Sonya has experience working in a variety of settings including outpatient clinics, inpatient rehab, home health, early childhood intervention, longterm acute care, skilled nursing facilities and hospital acute care. In addition, has served as clinical supervisor for graduate students entering the field of speech-language pathology.

Sonya has advanced training and certification in a variety of specialties, including: Beckman Oral Motor Assessment and Treatment, SCERTS comprehensive approach for autism spectrum disorders, Orofacial Myology, certified in VitalStim Therapy, Deep-Pharyngeal Neuromuscular Stimulation for Swallowing Intervention, Jay Rosenbeck’s Treatment of Dysarthria and Apraxia of Speech, Michael Crary’s Treating Adult Dysphagia, Myofascial Release: Manual Techniques in Dysphagia Management, and certified to dispense Fluency Master.

“My mother was a teacher, so I originally entered the profession of speech therapy with the intention of providing services within the school system,” she said. “However, my first neuroanatomy class changed my mind and I entered the medical track. I have not regretted that decision and have had many patients comment that I ‘found my calling’ in my profession.”

Sonya and her husband Stacey are originally from Leesville, La., but have lived and worked in Lake Charles since 1997. In their time, they enjoy traveling to the mountains, going to concerts and spending time with their dog Jasper. They also enjoy home improvement projects.

“We seem to be constantly in the middle of one!” she said.

Unique Gifts and Accessories

3204 RYAN ST. • 337-433-6200

Skin nurturing, talc-free makeup with UV protection and antioxidant benefits.

GET THE DETOXIFYING BODY WRAP OF THE STARS AND LOOK 10-30” SLIMMER. GUARANTEED! NOW $25 OFF! Services: Face taping ..................$60 Airbrush Tanning ..........$35 Tanning Beds ................$35/month Wellness Products Phone orders accepted with credit card.

APPOINTMENTS ONLY 562-9400

Volume 1 • Issue 16

• 1602 W. McNeese St. NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 31

KIM ANDERSON, PT, DPT Physical therapist and co-founder of Hope Therapy Center Kim says she feels fortunate to have found a profession that she absolutely loves.

“I started out as a chemical engineering major and while some people may love engineering, I realized after one year that it didn’t make my heart sing,” she said. “I quit school and moved to Orlando to work for Disney World while I figured out what I wanted to do with my life … I figured I could talk to people about what they did for a living and why they liked it. I wound up injuring my knee after about a year and went to PT – I was on fire about it – that poor therapist! I talked her ear off! I packed up, moved home and began working towards the goal of becoming a PT. “It turned out to be the right choice for me. I like the diversity of the different settings a PT can work in, as well as the challenge of determining the underlying impairments a patient has – and I enjoy the interaction with patients as well. I love my job and I am so thankful that I have found a profession that suits me. It’s a blessing that I know not everyone finds.”

Kim began garnering experience in her chosen field while working as a physical therapy technician for almost four years while earning her undergraduate degree from University of Louisiana-Lafayette in general studies with a minor in psychology. She graduated from massage therapy school while waiting for her PT graduate program to begin in order to develop her palpation skills. She then earned a doctorate in physical therapy in 2002, from University of St. Augustine, a school known for producing graduates with strong manual therapy skills. Upon graduating from PT school, she became rehab director for Physical Therapy Specialists of Baton Rouge, a clinic specializing in manual therapy. She then began working as a contract PT in order to attain experience in the multiple specialties available to physical therapists such as treatment of children and working with patients in acute settings with neurological as well as orthopedic impairments. Kim has taken continuing education in the treatment of patients with stroke and Parkinson’s disease, advanced manual therapy practice, pediatric courses on functional play and NDT (neurodevelopmental technique,) kinesiotaping, and treatment of disorders of the foot and shoulder.

Kim has been married to James for 11 years and they have one dog, Zenzi - the most perfect shepherd mix puppy in the world – they say.

She is a native of Broussard, south of Lafayette, and is proud of her Cajun heritage. James is from New Iberia. The couple moved to the area nearly five years ago when James transferred here with the state police.

On any given weekend, Kim can usually be found on I-10 somewhere between Baton Rouge and Houston.

MIKA DOUCET, LOTR, MOT Occupational therapist Originally from Jennings, Mika realized that she wanted to become an OT in high school following a hospital tour of an impressive therapy department. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from McNeese State University, she completed the Masters of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport. Further training was completed during intense rotations at an outpatient hand clinic, an outpatient neurological and orthopedic clinic, and at Shriner’s Pediatric Burn

Call our sales department for sponsorship information!

(337) 436-7800 715 Kirby St, Lake Charles PAGE 32

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Center in Galveston. She went on to receive her National Board Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) and her Louisiana state license.

Her professional career began in Lafayette working in an inpatient facility, where she was able to gain experience in the acute care of patients ranging from pediatrics to geriatrics with orthopedic and neurological limitations. This provided her with the familiarity of a variety of practice areas including splinting, psychiatric evaluations and group treatment, rehab treatment, and intensive care therapy. While in Lafayette, she also spent time practicing in home health care and outpatient hand therapy. Some of her more recent continuing education courses include: “Treating Autism: Putting the Puzzle Together,” “Acute Stroke,” “NDT Treatment of Adult Hemiplegia in Functional Weight Bearing Activities,” “Contextual Memory Test,” and “Behavioral Inattention Test.”

As a therapist, she says her goal is to treat clients of all ages and skill levels with a holistic approach to maximize learning, development, and function. Since all treatment is age-appropriate, her pediatric OT treatment plans often involve play therapy to engage the individual in an environment suitable for learning and interacting while working on the development of cognitive, sensory or motor function.

Outside of work, Mika likes to spend her time outdoors or in the kitchen. Things that make her happy (or crazy) include: organizing...and re-organizing; all things “artsy;” and jogging with her obese Chihuahua, Abe. JILL WILLIS, PTA Physical Therapist Assistant Jill received her B.S. degree with honors from McNeese State University and her M.S. degree from Louisiana State University. In 1995, Jill moved to Austin and started a successful personal fitness training business specializing in assisting older adults with balance retraining and strengthening. After a serious motor vehicle accident and months of rehabilitation, she decided to return to school and become a physical therapist assistant. Austin was fortunate enough to have one of the top-rated PTA programs in the U.S. at Austin Community College. Since graduating from ACC, she has obtained experience in sports medicine, inpatient and outpatient orthopedics, inpatient and outpatient neuro, home health and has worked in numerous long term care and skilled nursing facilities in Texas and Louisiana. Additionally, Jill has been an instructor for the ACC PTA program.

Jill believes that an informed patient has a stronger chance of full recovery. She spends much of her time educating her patients on their condition and why the various techniques or exercises utilized are essential to their success.

For fun, Jill rides her Kubota tractor on her property and her Harley Davidson with her family and friends. She is the proud owner of four rescue dogs and has a passion for helping abused or neglected animals.

ed in 2009, with a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Lamar University. Emily says she loves helping others and making a difference in her patients lives. In her time away from the clinic, Emily and her family enjoy spending time outdoors and cooking out with friends and family. Emily is also preparing her daughter for the arrival of a new baby in December.

OFFICE STAFF CINDY ISTRE Office manager Cindy has been working in the medical field for more than 16 years, specializing in insurance and billing.

In her time away from the office, Cindy enjoys spending time with her husband, David, and their children Amber and Colin. Her dogs, Scooter and Diamond, bring many laughs to their home and to the staff at Hope Therapy Center.

CYNDY LIRETTE Administrative assistant Cyndy has more 35 years experience in the medical field in a variety of office settings. She has worked with insurance and billing since 2003.

Cyndy enjoys spending time with her husband Wayne, her three children, six grandchildren and two grand-dogs.

TJN

McNeese Basketball season tickets on SALE NOW! See every men’s & women’s home basketball game for only $110!

EMILY D. PELICAN,MS,CF-SLP Speech-language pathologist Emily graduated in 2004 from LSU with a degree in communication disorders. She moved to Atlanta to enjoy big city life before moving back to her hometown of Kinder, where she married her high school sweetheart. First came love, then came marriage, and then came a beautiful baby girl named Selma-Rose. When Selma-Rose was a year old, Emily decided to pursue her master’s degree in speech-language pathology. She graduatPlease contact the special services and equality office at least 72 hours before any home event to request accommodations for individuals with disabilities. This includes the need for materials in an alternative format such as large print or Braille, sign language interpreters, accessible seating, and accessible parking information. Ph: (337) 475-5428.

Volume 1 • Issue 16

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 33

r Shoumake n o d n a r B By

All Grown Up Ah, the folly of youth.

When you’re young, making mistakes is practically a full-time occupation. Mom and Dad quietly shake their heads or tut-tut disapprovingly as you put on a pair of pants three sizes too large and wear your baseball cap upside down and backwards.

When you’re young, you think things like, “Dude, Limp Bizkit is the

PAGE 34

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

bomb.” Worse yet, you actually say these things out loud. For the record, I’ve never said those exact words.

Or you say: “Watch this,” and proceed to down a handle of Jack Daniels in a single swig.

When you’re young, a lot of your mistakes start out with the words “Watch this.”

This season, the McNeese State football team is young. Maybe not young enough to put on a backwards red baseball cap and grow a sillylooking goatee, but pretty young.

Injuries to key veterans have played a part in why McNeese is playing so many freshmen and sophomores. But,

while the Cowboys have made their share of youthful mistakes this season, the team has grown quite a bit since its season-opener.

Remember that game? Sure you do. It wasn’t that long ago when McNeese let Henderson State, a Division II school (watch this!), hang around and hang around until finally the Cowboys put the Reddies away in the fourth quarter.

Then, the following week, McNeese goes out and, darn it, the Cowboys play arguably their best game since 2007 (the ULLafayette game) in beating

Michigan-killers Appalachian State.

On the road. Against the very quarterback who helped wax the Wolverines.

Check us out!

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Both games were a bright, shining example of how young the Cowboys were at the start of the season. They started out playing down to an inferior opponent and come out the next week and play up to one of the FCS’ best teams.

It was like they got caught out past curfew on a weeknight but woke up the next day and washed dishes to make up for it.

Then they got stung for back-toback losses (Tulane and Stephen F. Austin) that can, for the most part, be blamed on many, many, many penalties. I will, however, say that the Conference USA officials did a mighty fine job of making sure McNeese didn’t embarrass the conference by beating Tulane. Not that all those holding penalties (look, Ma, two hands!) were totally unwarranted.

At any rate, more youthful indiscretion.

But, the Cowboys are growing up.

Slowly, but surely, the maturity of a veteran ballclub is starting to emerge.

Champlain Babin and Javaris Murray have been crucial in picking up the slack left behind by injured starter Toddrick Pendland. Sophomore guard Miguel Gauthreaux has been key in helping open running lanes for the running backs. Freshman linebacker Hayden Dobbs has had a monster year so far in filling in for Deron Minor, and sophomore Desmund Lighten is having a breakout season at defensive tackle.

Combine that with the senior leadership from guys like Pendland, Derrick Fourroux and Matt Kreamer, and things are starting to come together for the Cowboys.

Following the SFA loss, McNeese seems to have cleaned itself up. The Cowboys threw away the red baseball caps and Limp Bizkit albums. They got a haircut, bought a shirt and tie and set out into the working world.

They faced an inferior opponent, Northwestern State, on homecoming weekend. Instead of being distracted by the festivities, instead of playing down to a struggling opponent, the Cowboys took the Demons to the woodshed for four quarters.

The next week, they brought the Southeastern Louisiana Lions out to the same shed for a similar beating, only to let them escape out the side window during the third quarter.

Freshman running back Champlain Babin played like a freshman for the first time, fumbling three times, and SLU held a 35-24 lead going into the fourth quarter.

But, despite trailing late, the Cowboys stopped slouching, stood up straight, put their shoulders back and

Volume 1 • Issue 16

rallied right back, scoring a pair of fourth-quarter touchdowns to beat the Lions 36-35 and remain in contention for a Southland Conference title and/or a playoff spot.

The late-game rally is a truly promising sign that the younger Cowboys are beginning to not only learn from their mistakes but also pick up their teammates and fight back.

Which will mean a lot as McNeese has four games remaining; all against conference opponents, and we all know just how brutal the Southland

Conference can be. McNeese has only one conference loss, which means the Cowboys are more than capable of catching unbeaten Stephen F. Austin and winning the SLC title.

How will McNeese handle the pressure of the championship chase?

The Cowboys are going to tuck in their shirts, straighten their ties and go to work ready to take care of business.

Don’t they look all grown up?

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

TJN

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 35

PAGE 36

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Killin’ Time Crossword

Dr. James Maze

What Is Brachytherapy?

If you’re a cancer patient, one option that your doctor may recommend is brachytherapy (brachy is Greek for “short”), which is the use of radiation implants to slow or control the growth of the tumor.

“Brachytherapy is a minimally invasive procedure,” said Dr. James Maze, a radiation oncologist on staff at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. “The tiny radioactive implants give a high dose of radiation to the tumor while minimizing the exposure to the surrounding healthy tissue.”

Implanted directly into or near a tumor, brachytherapy is used for small, localized tumors or in combination with other treatments.

Depending on the type of cancer, the implants may resemble seeds, ribbons, or wires and may stay in place for minutes, hours, days, or even permanently.

But don’t despair. “The permanent implants are so small—about the size of a grain of rice—that you won’t be able to feel them,” Dr. Maze explained.

A common procedure for treating prostate cancer, cervical cancer, and cancers of the head and neck, brachytherapy can also be used for treating breast cancer, uterine cancer, lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and tongue cancer.

For more on brachytherapy, visit www.lcmh.com/cancer or call Memorial’s Cancer Center at (337) 494-2121. TJN Volume 1 • Issue 16

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

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 37

U A B A O F N LY VETERANS DAY - WORD SEARCH

N M R T

T A A F K G

L A E R U

Y V A N N N Y A T S A R R E N K

I

I

I

T

R A M R O O A R Y A R G

R T R

I

F

L E Y T Y

L E

L

R M F A E U D C N T B E N O E I R I

N O

I

T

I

N U M M A E N A E

L R A E E R T S Y R Y E

N C R V M Y F E A R B E B R

E B E E Y A A B V

L O

I

P A T R

M V N A

I

L A A A U O A

I O T O C A M A N

U R

I

T

I

K R M L Y

I M C A U T

L R A T S A E E N

I

I

A D N Y

I

G A R M M E T

A B E C P I

K T R E N N N E

L R N

S R T R O C Y L R A T

I

L E

Air Force Ammunition Army Barracks Battle

General Marine Military Navy Patriot

Rifle Salute Soldier Tank Veteran

The Dot Game

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Players take turns connecting two dots. When a player completes a box, they write their initial in the box. When all dots are connected, the player with the most boxes wins.

PAGE 38

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

der useum n e l l n E dren's M a D By e Chil of th r o t c Dire

Where the Wild Things Are (Warner Bros. 2009) The last time Spike Jonze adapted a book for the screen (Adaptation, 2006), he came up with a wonderfully dark and creative movie, with deep meanings and sarcasm and definitely made for adults.

Unfortunately, the same thing has happened with Where the Wild Things Are, based on the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak. So, I’ll tell you up front, don’t take your kids to this movie expecting you and your kids to relive the simple wonder of the book (which has less than 20 lines of text.) Instead, most of the

movie will be confusing, over their heads (and possibly over yours,) and in some places scary. That being said, it’s a wonderfully dark and creative movie… but I said that already, too.

Max is a lonely child of a divorced woman (Katherine Keener). His sister likes to have five boys over to the house when Mom is at work. None of them want to play. The very opening scenes show Max playing and wrestling with his dog, while wearing his trademark pointy-eared cat suit.

This was my favorite part of the movie. Max has an unbridled imagination that leads him to build igloos, make forts, and fight pretend wars.

His fantasy eventually leads him to an imaginary island where all sorts of monsters live. When you see them,

you’ll say, “There they are, the creatures from the book!”

However, all is not well where the wild things are. The main monster, Carol, is tearing up all the monster huts, while the others watch and complain. The main conflict of the movie is about to rear its monster head. Yes, conflict.

Because this is NOT a movie about a child having a wonderful romp with creatures in his imagination. It is a movie about a conflicted, deeply disturbed child having a romp with deeply disturbed creatures from his imagination. And through the rest of the movie, Max, a child, is put on the spot by the creatures, who themselves are childlike in a pop-psychology Freudian kind of way. They make Max their king, and immediately challenge him to make them all happy.

Kudos to Spike Jonze for giving shape to childhood impressions of dysfunctional families and their effect on children’s minds and lives. The monsters become Max’s imaginary family, and like parents who make children responsible for the parents’ happiness, the creatures put Max at the center of their lives.

Of course, we’re supposed to remember that Max has created them himself, and their conflicts and fears

are reflections of his own. And fears there are aplenty. There’s his basic fear of being eaten whenever the monsters get angry (often), the fear of disappointing them (always), and the fear that his “family kingdom” is about to be split up (pervasive). Hey, this is what childhood is all about, right?

There are lighter, more sunny moments. Max has the monsters build a gigantic super-hut that can be used as a fort, a boat, or castle. Carol has a secret cave where he has built a scale model of the island, a fantasy within a fantasy where everyone is happy. Max and the monsters have a great time with a dirtball fight, mimicking a snowball fight from Max’s real-life life.

But everything eventually sours.

Carol goes berserk, one creature gets its wing torn off, and Max gets eaten.

Sort of.

In his gut-wrenching treatment of a small book for children, Jonze reminds us that childhood isn’t always that rosy. In fact, it can be downright nightmarish. You can admire his insight, or you can be disappointed that he turned the book upside down and inside out, destroying its child-like appeal. I was both.

Eventually Max is regurgitated, goes back home, and the movie ends.

TJN

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

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

More information at www.kykz.com

Volume 1 • Issue 16

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 39

By Mary Louise Ruehr

A Look at the Current Best-Seller List The current best-seller lists offer quite a variety of entertaining options.

Once again, Dan Brown is at the top of the sales lists around the world.

In The Lost Symbol, he presents the standard race-through-the-streets, brutal-psychotic-murderer, is-there-a-traitor-hidden-in-the-woodwork thriller plot pattern he perfected in his earlier novels, a pattern that has been copied by many other authors. But he adds more: fascinating subject matter.

The protagonists aren’t just looking for a mysterious McGuffin; they’re out

to save the country, and along the way we’re given something intriguing to think about. From the Catholic Church in Angels & Demons to the myths and mysteries surrounding Jesus in The Da Vinci Code, Brown’s well-researched text has captivated the reader. In Symbol, he delivers cutting-edge material on noetic science mixed with the elusive mysteries of the Freemasons in the midst of a 24-hour chase through Washington, D.C. In a nutshell, symbologist Robert Langdon receives a message from his

longtime mentor, urgently summoning him to the nation’s capital. At the same time, a grotesque madman is working to complete his plan to become a god.

Meanwhile, the mentor’s sister is working on an exciting breakthrough in research on a kind of cosmic consciousness. All of this takes place in a soup of symbols, codes, and obfuscating clues we’ve come to expect from Brown. What’s remarkable is that most of Brown’s information is absolutely true. His trick is how he marries the true tidbits with some fictional plot points and slips in a few not-quite-truisms to make it all palatable — and darn-near unputdownable.

His unfolding plot surprised me.

But I must say, it seemed a bit preachy.

There are nice little asides about life, the soul, science, and the power of knowledge. It will surely annoy the hard-core religious, just as The Da Vinci Code did.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett is worth its weight in gold. The novel is set in Jackson, Miss., in 1962, the time of JFK, the Rev. Martin Luther King and the Freedom Riders. One white woman — “Miss Skeeter” — wakes up to the racism around her. She sees how the black maids who work in the homes of every one of her acquaintances are considered part of the famiPAGE 40

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

ly, but are relegated to a separate bathroom out back; the maids are the white children’s caregivers, but the children are taught by their parents that their maid is “dirty” or “might have a disease” and certainly isn’t “one of us.”

Skeeter, an aspiring writer, wants to make a difference in the lives of the black maids. She decides to write a book of “stories about what it’s like to work for a white family … what it’s like to be a maid in Jackson.” But to do so, she needs input from the maids, who are truly terrified that if their employers found out, not only would they be fired; the repercussions would be unthinkable.

The story is told mostly in the first person, with the narration shared by Skeeter and two black women. One of the maids, who has raised 17 white children, adores her current charge, but can tell that the toddler’s mother is starting to teach her how to be a racist: “I want to stop that moment from coming — and it come in ever white child’s life — when they start to think that colored folks ain’t as good as whites,” she says. “How we love they kids when they little … and then they turn out just like they mamas.” It’s just heartbreaking.

I really immersed myself in the book, in the Southern hospitality, in

Volume 1 • Issue 16

the net tightly woven among the characters’ lives. It’s very powerful. Several times I gasped in horrified shock or pleasant surprise. At one point, I said aloud: “Holy s—-” and felt chills down my spine. The author really involves the reader by making the characters so complete. The writing is easy to follow and occasionally just lovely, as in the description of one maid’s contribution to the book: “Her stories unfold like soft linen.” There’s even a hilarious scene when Skeeter goes out on a disastrous date. This book is just excellent, all around. Do not miss it.

Mitch Albom is more than a little familiar with the best-seller lists, from his wise and still-inspirational Tuesdays with Morrie to the madeya-think Five People You Meet in Heaven, among others. He returns to nonfiction with Have a Little Faith, in which he tells the stories of two men of faith — a rabbi and a Baptist minister.

Albert Lewis, 82, the rabbi of Albom’s New Jersey childhood, asks Mitch if he would give the eulogy at his funeral when the time comes.

Albom doesn’t feel he knows the rabbi well enough, so he starts to visit him on a regular basis. He listens to the rabbi’s anecdotes, musical theaterish songs and overabundance of puns.

The text is filled with inspirational quotes and short excerpts from the rabbi’s sermons. “Faith is about doing,” says Lewis. “You are how you act, not just how you believe.” Meanwhile, Albom gets to know Henry Covington in Brooklyn. Henry was raised with eight siblings in an apartment filled with rats. He grew up on the streets, getting involved with gangsters and drugs, and ending up in prison. At his lowest point, he turns to God, and later becomes a clergyman.

There’s true wisdom in this little book. It’s a bit reminiscent of Tuesdays Volume 1 • Issue 16

with Morrie, combining some of Albom’s own life stories with insights from thoughtful men. One-tenth of the profits from the book’s sale will go to charity.

The reason to read a Pat Conroy novel is the writing, and South of Broad is no exception. It begins in 1969 in Charleston, S.C., where troubled 18-year-old Leo King is trying to overcome the trauma of his brother’s suicide. Leo explains that no one “could show me the pathway to a normal productive life with that ghoulish entry visa affixed to my passport.”

Brilliant writing.

Here’s another example of Conroy’s beautiful words: “I carry the delicate porcelain beauty of Charleston like the hinged shell of some soft-tissued mollusk. … The high tides of the city flood my consciousness each day, subject to the whims and harmonies of full moons rising out of the Atlantic.”

Why not take a nice, long visit to Conroy’s lovely South, where “The gardens of Charleston were mysteries walled away in ivied jewel boxes emitting their special fragrances over high walls.” Aah. Copyright © 2009 by Mary Louise Ruehr.

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

• There are more deaths per year caused by drowsy driving than drunk driving.

• It involves over 100,000 police reported crashes.

• Over 40,000 injuries and 1,500 deaths reported annually.

If you suffer from Excessive Daytime Sleepiness or other Sleep Disorders, call today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with SWLA’s ONLY Nationally Accredited Sleep Center.

(337) 310-REST (7378) 1-877-597-REST (7378) www.sleepdisordercenterofla.com

217 Sam Houston Jones Parkway, STE 102, Moss Bluff, La. 4820 Lake Street, Lake Charles, La. 422 Kade Drive STE 2, Jennings, La.

The Sleep Disorder Center of Louisiana is an AASM accredited sleep center and is considered a provider for most insurance companies.

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 41

By Erica McCreedy When you first meet J. Bruce Fuller, you probably won’t guess that he is an accomplished, published poet.

Since he moved down here in 2008, he’s been developing and promoting his work with broadsides, which employ handmade methods to create unique prints of poems. He’s focusing much of his creative efforts in bringing this art medium to the Lake Charles art scene.

His accent exudes New Orleans, his black clothing brings back his years as front man to a touring heavy metal band, and his sharp wit is only exceeded by his dark humor. But besides caring for his two young children and paying some bills with his McNeese graduate assistantship, Fuller has been spending nights helping to expose the literary arts to Southwest Louisiana.

Fuller’s deep connection to poetry propelled him into the literary world, and he soon began experimenting in the production of broadsides, a virtually unknown art form outside of writer’s circles.

Feeling that he has always been a writer at heart, Fuller pursued a

PAGE 42

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

degree in creative writing from the University of Louisiana at Monroe before submitting a poetry portfolio to McNeese State University. Morri Creech, the poetry director at the time for McNeese’s highly sought-after Creative Writing MFA Program, quickly gave Fuller one of four spots in the MFA Program in poetry.

With his wife, Sarie, and their children, Fuller moved to Lake Charles in

the summer of 2008. Soon after his arrival, Fuller began to focus more of his time on broadside production.

The Press and broadside production “When I came into the MFA Program, I found myself suddenly surrounded by other poets from around the country,” said Fuller. With other creative energies around him, he J. Bruce Fuller

pulled forces together to create Yellow Flag Press, a small press, which, as member Michael Rather, Jr. said, “is a force to bring regional and national poets wider recognition and to expand and reinforce the connection between visual and literary art.”

While Fuller is the founding member, he tapped into the talents of Lou Amyx of Texas; Rather, who had just moved from Iowa; and, Andrew McSorley of Wisconsin. McSorley borrowed the name from the yellow flag lily, which served as the symbol for the popular Fleur de Lis. Broadsides today are collectable for their painstaking, yet beautifully detailed design and creation. But, their beginnings were more practical and humble. With the birth of the printing press, broadsides were created for single-sided productions of poems, pamphlets, and other short literature.

“The functional purposes of broadsides, with the advancement of printing technology and availability, transformed into an artistic endeavor,” noted Fuller. Throughout the centuries, the poem remained the perfect

Volume 1 • Issue 16

literary form for the broadside since poems are typically short enough to fit on a single page.

The broadside gives the poem its own space and personality. “[A broadside is a] collectible publication of an isolated poetic moment,” said Rather. “A poem on its own functions very differently than when it is combined with a collection. Broadsides provide the space for a poem to function on its own.”

The broadside brings the reader to a new experience by overlapping both literary and artistic methods and styles.

The creator can be as elaborate or as minimalist as he or she wishes since the artistic elements are used in not only the design but also in the materials.

Fuller, like other broadside producers, uses anything from handmade paper

Volume 1 • Issue 16

to hand-cut stamps and printing methods.

Vision/Verse Without the community events that Yellow Flag Press has participated in, Fuller’s brainchild could not have progressed into a legitimate press that already has 20 limited editions to its name.

The press was thrown into production efforts with its first annual art show, “Vision/Verse,” which was held at the Imperial Calcasieu Museum last May. The show explored how poetry could influence art and how art could inspire poetry. The members of Yellow Flag Press were contracted to create 20 limited editions of local poets’ work, and each edition was followed with nine additional prints, which were for sale on opening night.

The broadsides were hung with 20 original art pieces completed by local artists including Amie Herbert, John Martel, and Blake Soto, along with artists from across the state such as Andy Bloxham and Brad Arender. The show was a smashing success for Fuller and Yellow Flag Press in that nearly all of the 200 broadsides were sold on opening night.

Future projects Yellow Flag Press has its eyes set on future projects that will further its work in giving poetry and its artistic elements a place in the Lake Charles art scene. The members are beginning their work on the second installment of “Vision/Verse,” which will open in May 2010.

In addition, they’re currently working on a limited edition broadside, due out by the end of the year, for a poem from Amy Fleury’s newest book.

Fleury is not only the new poetry director of McNeese’s MFA Program in Creative Writing, but is also a widely-read poet whose first book, Beautiful Trouble, won the Crab Orchard First Book Award in 2003.

And, on Nov. 14, Yellow Flag Press plans on participating in the Bayou Writers Group conference and will sell a selection of broadsides. Visit Yellow Flag Press’ Web site at www.YellowFlagPress.blogspot.com to view the broadsides printed for Vision/Verse—several of which are still available to purchase. TJN

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 43

ART FOR THE SOUL The Atrium at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital was alive with music, people and art on a recent Wednesday evening. The Foundation of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital introduced artists whose work will be on permanent display in the hospital. It was wonderful to meet the artists and view their art while enjoying a grand selection of cheeses, fruits, crackers, dip and wines. Boraina and Michael Buckles entertained with piano and violin, respectively. LCMH has found yet another avenue to promote wellbeing by introducing the beauty of art into their halls.

Norma Blake, Melba Trosclair and Jan Scharrier

Sissie and Louis Villaume and Sherry Schofield

Brooke and Lisa Walker

Tommie Townsley, Leif Pedersen, Patsy Manuel and Raejean Clark

Bob and Linda Dewey and Kevin Mocklin

Tammy and Chad Laughlin

Mary Kay Stoma with Jim and Debby Murphy

Blaine Miller, Lydia Powers and Susan Reed

Dayne Campbell, Nicholas Reina and Tino Hernandez

BOUDIN & BLUE JEANS PREMIER If you talk about what Southwest Louisiana is all about, you gotta, at some point, mention food. And that's exactly what the Imperial Calcasieu Museum and the Lake Charles SWLA Convention and Visitors Bureau did when the SWLA Boudin Trail was created. Boudin of all kinds, including crawfish and alligator and hot and mild were featured at the first Boudin and Blue Jeans event. As for the blue jeans - well, that would just be Grammy Award winner Terrance Simien in blue jeans, of course, and barefoot. If you missed this event, you missed lots of "hot stuff." Pay attention next time.

PAGE 44

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Riva Rozas, Stacy Bower, Princess Jacobs and Marjorie Simon

Jolyn and Elloitt Slate

Brenda Hardee, Terrance Simien, Polly Henry and Charlene Miller

LAKE CHARLES SYMPHONY SEASON 52 OPENER The opening concert on a Sunday afternoon in Rosa Hart Theatre was titled "The Slavic Soul," conducted by Bohuslav Rattay. Season 52: The Great Conductor Search, will present four electrifying concerts and four masterful conductors for your pleasure and enjoyment.

This season will also give you the opportunity to hear four candidates for "The Great Conductor," one of whom will be selected as the Lake Charles Symphony's permanent conductor following in the footsteps of William Kushner. The first concert of the season was quite impressive and I expect the remaining concerts will be equally so. Come see what you think.

Melony LeMay and Sandra Leder

Beryl and Tyler Cook and Sheila Babineaux

Belinda and Laura Patrick

Donnie Richard, president; Bohuslav Rattay, guest conductor; and Debbie Reed, executive director

Debbie Howrey, Bob Ward and Karen Miller

OUR LADY QUEEN OF HEAVEN AUCTION "Treasures Under the Sea" was the theme of Our Lady Queen of Heaven's annual auction. A lovely mermaid, who looked a lot like Lisa Jakel, director of development, made sure Faye and I were well taken care of as she ushered us around the room full of fabulous auction items, lovely people and a scrumptious meal, prepared and served by parishioners. A special section of spectacular baked goods, homedecorating items, handmade quilts, gift certificates, special parking spaces and loads more were available to the highest bidders.

Lana Holland and Mallany Ryan Volume 1 • Issue 16

Jackie St. Romain, Prissy Gayle and Barbara Lorio NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 45

Michele and Joel Gary

Duane and Dawn Witherwax with Hope Snider

Mary and Dick Stine

Msgr. James Gaddy and Dr. Jim Brown

ELECTION: NOV. 14, 2009 • Early Voting: Oct. 31 – Nov. 7, 2009 District Attorney John DeRosier: 10-year, 0.75-mill tax for the 14th Judicial District Sheriff Tony Mancuso: Renewal of 10-year, 7.58-mill property tax Calcasieu Parish Police Jury: $55 million capital improvement bond

Tait and Suzanne Guillory with Damon Rapp

Kristie Eisen and Pam Fournerat

According to a 2001 study of intentional animal abuse published by the Humane Society of the United States, 13 percent of these cases involved incidents of domestic violence, 7 percent coincided with child abuse and 1 percent with elder abuse.

For additional information email info@lwv-lc.org or call 474-1864.

Visit - www.VOTE411.org Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

Sponsored by

PAGE 46

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

WOMEN'S COMMISSION FALL CONFERENCE 2009 It was all about women, and there were lots and lots of them (and a few men) who attended the 2009 Women's Commission Fall Conference. Keynote speaker Meredith Baxter shared personal experiences and encouraging words in her message to participants at the luncheon.

Organized in 1990, as a resource for the personal and professional growth of women in Southwest Louisiana, the success of this organization is measured by its many contributions to the community and the more than 1,600 in attendance for the event. On this day, the Civic Center was a mecca for anything feminine as vendors plied their wares of jewelry, clothing, cosmetics, beauty and relaxation services, and more.

TJN Diamond Jenkins and Qualynn Crumb

Debbie Boudreaux, Lee J. and Anne Monlezun

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Shelly Flores, Renee Hill and Christy Moore

Ray Wright and Kayla Robbins

Princella Ryan and Sandra Jones

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 47

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

The

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 • Errol Jenkins & Louisiana Tradition @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Alvin Touchet @ Blue Duck Cafe, 7:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5 • The Hotel Cazin Band @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Neal Smith @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 p.m.

• ThingFish @ Molly’s Lamplighter, 7 p.m.

• Louisiana Express @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m.

• Kip Sonnier @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m.

• Giles Sonnier & The Bayou Idols @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

• C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.

• Cornerstone @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.

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

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 • Al Roger & Louisiana Pride @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Michael Bryant @ Frey’s Restaurant, Jennings, 7 p.m.

• Louisiana Express @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m.

• X-It 43 @ My Place, 9 p.m.

• C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.

• First Friday Party @ Toucan’s, 9 p.m.

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

• Centerfire @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m.

• Loser’s Reunion/Squint/Daylight Broadcast @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.

PAGE 48

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

• Big Sam’s Funky Nation @ Luna Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 • Mack Manuel & The Lake Charles Ramblers @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Chris Miller & Bayou Roots @ VFW Post 2130, 7:30 p.m.

• Justin Pierce/Cold Sweat @ Isle of Capri Casino, 8 p.m.

• Louisiana Express @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m.

• The Von Dukes/The Flamin Hellcats/We Were Wolves @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

• Plump @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

• Kinfolk Party @ Toucan’s, 9 p.m.

• Twangster’s Union @ Sloppy Jeaux’s, Sulphur, 9 p.m.

• Ashes of Babylon @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

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

• C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.

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

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10 • Scotty Pousson & The Pointe aux Loups Playboys @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 • Homer Lejeune @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Alvin Touchet @ Blue Duck Cafe, 7:30 p.m.

• Brad Broussard @ Caribbean Hut, 9 p.m.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12 • Travis Benoit & Allons Dance @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Neal Smith @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 p.m.

• Ka-Nection @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m.

• Boom-A-Rang @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m.

• C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.

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

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13 • Howard Noel & Cajun Boogie @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Glenn Fontenot @ Frey’s Restaurant, Jennings, 7 p.m.

• Pandemic/Vilkatas @ Toucan’s, 8 p.m.

• Ka-Nection @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m.

• Sugarfoot @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

• The Mike Taylor Band @ My Place, 9 p.m.

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

• C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.

• Charles Mann & Louisiana Pride @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m.

• Research Turtles/The Vettes @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.

• Furr @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.

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

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 • Briggs Brown & The Bayou Cajuns @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Neal Smith @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 8 p.m.

• War Child @ Hurricane Willie’s, Sulphur, 8 p.m.

• Ka-Nection @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m.

• When the Word was Sound/Lochness Mobsters/The Near Death Experiment @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

• Colorcast Veteran/Parallel the Sky @ Toucan’s, 9 p.m.

• C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.

• Rio Sabine @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m.

Volume 1 • Issue 16

• The Devil and The Details/Borderline Cuckoo @ Luna Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.

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

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15 • Blues Tonic @ Mary’s Lounge, 4 p.m.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 • Lesa Cormier & The Sundown Playboys @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18 • The Cajun Music Band @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Alvin Touchet @ Blue Duck Cafe, 7:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19 • T-Joe Romero @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Neal Smith @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 p.m.

• Nathan Dean @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m.

• Brad Brinkley & Comfort Zone @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m.

• Giles Sonnier & The Bayou Idols @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

• C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.

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

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20 • Briggs Brown & The Bayou Cajuns @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Static @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

• Nathan Dean @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m.

• Daylight Broadcast/The 94s @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

• City Heat @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 9 p.m.

• Craig Mouton & Slingshot @ My Place, 9 p.m.

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

• C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.

• Louisiana Express @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 • Joe Simon & Louisiana Cajun @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Darius Rucker @ Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 7 p.m.

• Styx/REO Speedwagon/Night Ranger @ Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m.

• Nathan Dean @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m.

• Whiskey South @ Hurricane Willie’s, Sulphur, 9 p.m.

• C.J. Johnson @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.

• Dog Hill Stompers @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m.

• Last Draw @ Toucan’s, 9:30 p.m.

• Live Oak Decline/Fresh Nectar @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9:30 p.m.

• Red November @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24 • Neal Smith @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 5 p.m.

• Felton LeJeune & The Cajun Cowboys @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Alexa James @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25 • Howard Noel & Cajun Boogie @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Alvin Touchet @ Blue Duck Cafe, 7:30 p.m.

• Blues Tonic @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

• Whiskey South @ Caribbean Hut, 8 p.m.

• Research Turtles/Devil and The Details/Paul Gonsoulin @ Toucan’s, 9 p.m.

• Butt Roxx @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.

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

TJN

MONDAY NIGHTS: Abita Beer Night

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS: Mondo Martini Night

THURSDAY NIGHTS: Be Well Night

Whether you are dining in or calling in for takeout, let The Luna Bar and Grill do all the work.

Come in today for one of our specialty salads, stellar sandwiches, or exceptional entrees. We offer many choices for the health conscious individual.

We’re locally owned and the best place in town for live entertainment, food, and drinks.

MSU UPCOMING EVENTS

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Nov. 7

Football vs. Sam Houston State Cowboy Stadium @ 7 p.m.

Nov. 9

Women’s Basketball vs. ETBU Burton Coliseum @ 7 p.m.

Nov. 13

Volleyball vs. Nicholls Memorial Gym @ 7 p.m.

Nov. 14

Volleyball vs. Southeastern, LA Memorial Gym @ 2 p.m.

Nov. 16

Women’s Basketball vs. Texas College Burton Coliseum @ 7 p.m.

Sat. Nov. 7 @ 9:00 PLUMP (from Houston, Tx.) Fri. Nov. 13 @ 9:00 SUGARFOOT (from Monroe, La.) Sat. Nov. 14 @ 10:00 DEVIL & THE DETAILS (from Baton Rouge, La.) Fri. Nov. 20 @ 10:00 DAYLIGHT BROADCAST, THE 94’S & MORE

Please contact the special services and equality office at least 72 hours before any home event to request accommodations for individuals with disabilities. This includes the need for materials in an alternative format such as large print or Braille, sign language interpreters, accessible seating, and accessible parking information. Ph: (337) 475-5428.

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Sat. Nov. 21 @ 10:00 LIVE OAK DECLINE (from Austin, Tx.) w/ FRESH NECTAR NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 49

25 YEARS OF LOVE AT HISTORIC CITY HALL NOV. 6 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center at 1001 Ryan Street announces the opening of a new exhibition, “25 Years of Love.” Local artist Pat Love will host an opening reception, on Fri., Nov. 6 from 6-8 p.m. The public is invited to attend. The collection of oil paintings and prints will hang through December 26. Love has shown her paintings in local as well as international juried exhibits. Some of her pieces can be seen in The McNeese Permanent Collection from the National Works on Paper Exhibit and at Bayou Treasures in Welsh. Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center 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, please call 491-9147 or visit www.cityoflakecharles.com.

25 Years of Love

JAM

All proceeds benefit the Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s Athletic Scholarship. For more information on the McDonald’s/McNeese Pancake Breakfast, contact Jen Breen at 337-478-7396 or jbreen@ocarroll.com.

LOUISIANA THEATRE FESTIVAL NOV. 7 The Louisiana Theatre Festival (LTF) will be held on Sat., Nov. 7 from 9 a.m.-4 p. m. at the Central School of the Arts & Humanities Center (809 Kirby Street) in Lake Charles. The LTF is a one-day festival created to provide young people with acting and technical theatre training, performance opportunities, and college audition skills. Workshops include acting, musical theatre, jazz dance, improvisation, voice, costuming, lighting, playwriting and makeup design. Students, grades 6-12, from Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, and Jeff Davis parishes are invited to participate. Registration for is $30 per student and includes lunch.

Students registering before Oct. 31 receive a free T-shirt. No experience is necessary. For registration information, contact Onxley at 309-6332 or visit the festival Web site at www.LTF.cc.

KINGDOM ROCKFEST NOV. 7 Kingdom Rockfest 2009 is making its first appearance in Southwest Louisiana on Sat., Nov. 7, promising an evening of family entertainment and ministering through powerful music. Two live bands will be performing, including Visionary, a Native American Contemporary Gospel Rock Group from Oklahoma and The Plateros, a Navajo band from New Mexico. Kingdom Rockfest begins at 5:30 p.m. Come early and you will be treated to hamburgers and hotdogs! Also performing will be area cheer groups and dance teams. The event is presented by the New Testament Temple and will be held at the Camp Coushatta Pavilion on the Coushatta Reservation. Go to www.koasati.org for more information, updates, and map.

MCDONALD’S/MCNEESE PANCAKE BREAKFAST NOV. 7 Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s and the McNeese Athletic Foundation will host a pancake breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m. Sat., Nov. 7, in the Cowboy Club Room at Cowboy Stadium to benefit the Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s Athletic Scholarship. Fans will enjoy pancakes, sausage, milk, coffee and orange juice as they hang out with current and former McNeese athletes, McNeese cheerleaders, Cowgirl Kickers and Rowdy.

Ticket holders will get a chance to have their faces painted for the game, as well as the opportunity to win fabulous raffle prizes. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the McNeese ticket office in the Doland Field House.

PAGE 50

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

MURDER MOST FOUL AT LCCC AMPHITHEATRE WEEKENDS NOV 7-22 A Lakeside Theatre presents Murder Most Foul as part of its Shakespeare in the Park Series at the Lake Charles Civic Center Amphitheatre. In Murder Most Foul, one of Shakespeare’s most evil characters, Iago, tries to evade judgment by placing judgment on others. This tale explores Shakespeare’s plays and their murders, plots, villains, and not-so-likely villains. The dates and times are Sat., Nov. 7; Sat., Nov. 14;

The Plateros

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Sat., Nov. 21; and Sun., Nov. 22; all at 3 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students/seniors/children (under 10 years). This show may not be suitable for young children. To order tickets, visit www.lakecharlestheatre.com or call 540-6916.

A TUNA CHRISTMAS AT LITTLE THEATRE NOV 7-8, 12-15, 19-22 Little Theatre presents A Tuna Christmas, a deep-fried comedy about small-town Texas at Yuletide. The show comes with a twist: All 24 roles are played by just two actors. Greg Stratton and Joseph Frazier do quick-changes throughout the show – from twangy announcers on the local radio station to waitresses at the Tastee Kreme. The fast-paced comedy will run Nov. 7-8, 12-15 and 19-22.

Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. (2 p.m. on Sundays). Tickets are on sale now for $20 (discounted for seniors and students). For reservations, call 433-7988 or visit www.LCLT.com. Also, the show will be available for private bookings for company Christmas parties — all-inclusive “Tuna Christmas Parties” which include a gala reception, hors d’oeuvres and a private performance of the show. Dates through Dec. 20 remain available. For bookings, call or e-mail the theatre.

SPECIAL EVENTS TO COMMEMORATE ST. MARGARET SCHOOL’S 60TH ANNIVERSARY NOV. 8-15 In observance of the 60th Anniversary of St. Margaret Catholic School, several activities to celebrate this special occasion have been planned. The week will begin with a Prayer Retreat presented by the Marianites of Holy Cross in the school cafeteria on Sun., Nov. 8, from 24 p.m. For more information, contact Cheryl Fusilier, 477-5560. St. Margaret students will present a 1940s USO Variety Show on Wed., Nov. 11, at 9 a.m. in the Family Center Gym. A reception for veterans will follow in the East Room. A Family Bingo will be held Sat., Nov. 14, beginning with dinner at 5 p.m., a live auction at 5:45 p.m., and bingo at 6:30 p.m. The celebration will continue with the Annual Alumni Mass on Sun., Nov. 15, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Margaret Catholic Church. After Mass, take a walk down memory lane and enjoy tours of the school and an anniversary reception in the Family Center Gym. For more information, call 497-0436.

MCNEESE THEATRE PRESENTS THE LONG CHRISTMAS RIDE HOME NOV. 11-15.

McNeese Theatre Bayou Players will present The Long Christmas Ride Home at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 11-14, with a 2 p.m. matinee Sun., Nov. 15.

Performances are in Ralph Squires Hall, Shearman Fine Arts Center on the McNeese campus. Staged as a “puppet play with actors,” the action provides a moving and memorable study of an American family careening near the edge of oblivion. For mature audiences. Ticket prices are $15 for adults; $10 for senior citizens, McNeese faculty/staff, and students (K-12). McNeese students are admitted free with a current ID. Box office is open 10 days prior to production opening date, on weekdays from 6-8 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m.-noon. For reservations, call 475-5043.

A Tuna Christmas

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Once in a lifetime savings on heirloom-quality solid brass and white iron beds.

Buy factory direct and SAVE UP TO 50%!!

Special Bridal layaway and payment plans. Send for our FREE CATALOG.

12421 Cedar Rd. Cleveland, Ohio 44106 (337) 436-7800 ext. 110

Sometimes the Best Medicine is Just Being at Home At Southern Home Health one of our main goals is to provide patients with peace of mind as they make the transition from the hospital to home. We have the technology and specially trained staff of RN’s, LPN’s, Aides, PT’s, OT’s, Speech Therapists, Dieticians and a Social Worker to help you regain your strength and independence. We strive to help our patients in attaining the quality of life they deserve. Some of our specialized services include:

• Rehabilitation therapy for joint replacement and other surgeries • Low Vision • Pelvic Floor dysfunction for incontinence • Diabetes management • Wound Care Program • Medication and Nutrition management • Ostomy care & teaching • Catheter/tube care • IV Therapy • Lifeline-24hr Personal Response and Support

Call us today!

(337) 479-2233 NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 51

WESTLAKE HIGH PRESENTS DRACULA NOV. 12 Dracula will be presented by Westlake High School’s Theatre department and Kerry A. Onxley, Director of Theatre. Good and evil battle for the possession of a young woman’s soul in this startling new adaptation of the Bram Stoker classic. Stoker’s 1897 novel “Dracula,” remains the gold standard for vampire stories and features as it primary antagonist the vampire Count Dracula. The production will open on Thurs., Nov. 12 at a 10 a.m. performance open to all schools, and a 7 p.m. performance for the public. The play will be held at the Westlake High Theatre located on 1000 Garden Drive in Westlake. Tickets are $7 per person. For ticket information or school bookings, contact Onxley at 433-6866; Ext. 10 or kerry.onxley@cpsb.org.

MARDI GRAS EXTRAVAGANZA STYLE SHOW NOV. 13 The Perfect Fit on Pujo Street will host a ladies luncheon on Fri., Nov. 13 at the Charleston Hotel in Lake Charles. The “Mardi Gras Extravaganza” brunch/style show is $35 per ticket. There will be a Mardi Gras shopping market area for attendees open before and after the show. Market tables are available to krewes for $25 each to set up and sell items to benefit your krewe. Those krewes with 8 attendee tickets sold get their shopping table free of charge. Please e-mail Anne Monlezun at annegmonlezun@yahoo.com or call 540-3098 if interested in either tickets for the show or a table to sell in the market place.

KURT KEMP PRINT EXHIBIT AT MSU THROUGH NOV. 14 The McNeese Department of Visual Arts is hosting a print exhibit titled “Worrier King” by artist Kurt Kemp through Nov. 14 in the Abercrombie Gallery in the Shearman Fine Arts Center. The “Worrier King” is a series of elaborate prints embellished with hand coloring and the use of chine colle. Kemp will also be exhibiting “The Drunken Boat,” which is a unique livre d’artiste, a portfolio of five hand-colored prints created to accompany the text by Arthur Rimbaud. The Abercrombie Gallery, located in Room 125 of the Shearman Fine Arts Center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information about the exhibit, call the visual arts department at (337) 475-5060.

MISTLETOE & MOSS NOV. 18-21 The Junior League of Lake Charles’ Mistletoe & Moss Holiday Market will take place from Nov. 18-21 at the Lake Charles Civic Center.

Shopping hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Nov. 19 and 20, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Nov. 21. Don’t miss Prancer’s Preview Party, Nov. 18, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. with food, cocktails, free valet and auction items for $40.

On Nov. 19, shop with Comet’s Choirs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., where you can get into the holiday spirit with the help of local bands and choirs.

Tickets are $7 with no stroller fee. There are many other events scheduled; for more information, call 436-4025.

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

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

Come early, supplies are limited.

RALLY TO RESCUE NOV. 22 Sponsored by Purina Pro Plan, this event is bringing together all area animal rescue groups. Come out for a fun-filled afternoon to learn what the animal groups are doing to help with overpopulation. Ten to 15 groups will be in attendance, along with Heckhaven, a local wildlife rescuer. Visit the booths, get to know the rescuers, and learn about fostering and adoption. Cats and dogs will be available on-site for adoption. There will be raffles, food, music and demonstrations, including pet training basics, wildlife do’s and don’ts, agility training, and more. It will be held from noon to 4 p.m. on the grounds of the Lake Charles Civic Center near the tennis courts. For more information, call 287-1711. TJN

901 Ryan St., Lake Charles • 439-2054 • pujostreet.com PAGE 52

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

Richard Thompson Takes My Request Story and Photo By Leslie Berman Ending my Irish vacation in New York City, where my siblings and I were going to be holding a semi-surprise party for my mom’s 80th birthday, I landed in time to make it to the last two out of three nights of all request shows by worldrenowned musicians’ musician Richard Thompson, at the cavernous yet cozy City Winery.

The fans came in from all over the United States and even a few from overseas, having been tipped to the gigs in time to buy all the tickets within a few hours of being released for sale. At the shows, each of us was asked to write out a single musical request, whether for Thompson’s own songs or any others, and those slips of paper were put into a gigantic footed bowl from which RT would pick the night’s set list at random. We watched with bated breath, thinking, “Pick me, pick me,” with the same excited fear you get when you’re waiting for sides to be drawn for a softball game.

The first night, I asked for one of my personal favorites – “Al Bowlly’s In Heaven (And I’m In Limbo Now)” – a song that makes me grateful that my dad and his gang who were called up during the Korean conflict, my best girl’s dad and his pals who were in WWII, and the kids I knew in high school who went off to Vietnam, all came back safe, and whole, and had the chance to live the lives they’d planned.

With its minor key swingy tune and marching feet

rhythmic riff, its reference to British wartime big band leader Al Bowlly, and lines like, “We were heroes then / and the girls were all pretty / and a uniform was a lucky charm / that bought you the key to the city,” Thompson sent me back to British and American dance bands and couples in uniform at the USO, a time and place familiar from movies and books.

But being Richard Thompson, he sang unsentimental lines which brought me back from the soft focus lenses of so many patriotic movies with a thud: “Well, I gave my youth to king and country / But what’s my country done for me / but sentenced me to misery / I traded my helmet and my parachute / For a pair of crutches and a demob suit / Al Bowlly’s in Heaven / and I’m in limbo now.”

And Thompson actually sang it for me, the second night I was there, sandwiching the song between a hilarious version of “The Monster Mash” and a gentle love song to the deity, “Dimming of the Day,” which for me is Thompson’s greatest hit, having charted in a cover version by Bonnie Raitt, among others.

(Some of you here in Lake Charles will no doubt be more familiar with the country Cajun version of “Two-Left Feet,” Thompson’s song that gave Moss Bluff accordionist Jo-El Sonnier a hit probably 20 years ago.)

Now I know that a few of you might have seen him paying tribute to Joni Mitchell in the 2000 PBS special, where he covered “Woodstock,” and some of you might have heard him opening for Crowded House (he sang “Don’t Dream It’s Over” with the full Winery crowd on the chorus), and a few of you might even have heard him making fun of L.A.’s own Britney Spears by covering “Ooops…I Did It Again.”

But I know that most of you reading this haven’t even heard of Richard Thompson, perhaps the most important guitarist of the 20th century, because, although his songs have been covered for nearly 40 years by Del McCoury, R.E.M., Christy Moore, David Gilmour, Mary Black, Elvis Costello, The Corrs, Shawn Colvin, Norma Waterson, Maura O’Connell, Lucy Kaplansky, and The Blind Boys of Alabama, just to name a random few, his records haven’t been marketed for sales in the millions, and he’s rarely been heard on mainstream Top 20 radio, So, he’s always been better known among musicians than he has been among ordinary fans. Then, too, there’s the affectionate recognition by the faithful that he’s a gloomy Gus, singing more of sturm und drang than of either fury or delight. And his songs are too lyrical, too literate, to reach audiences wanting something light and frothy, or beer-soaked and headbanging. And he doesn’t often sing of

modern obsessions, except perhaps in his “1952 Vincent Black Lightning,” a love song to a motorcycle and a girl who loves the outlaw who owns it, with the fabulous line, “Red hair and black leather / my favorite color scheme,” that makes me long to be 20 again.

So why am I waxing lyrical about him today?

Because Richard Thompson songs have formed the soundtrack to my life since I was a pubescent hippie, wanting to sing the deep meaningful songs of my tortured soul, in tattered gauzy garb that all the prettiest girls wore on the album covers of the 1960s. And because I want you to go hear him, as soon as you can (which is in Baton Rouge on Nov. 9—more about that later).

Thompson has been a guitar hero since he was just 17 (and you know what I mean), playing in the formidable genre-founding folk-rock band, Fairport Convention, then in a duo with his first wife, Linda Thompson nee Pettifer, and finally on his own as a soloist or in varying band aggregations, for a hardcore fan base that literally follows him everywhere.

Their enthusiasm for his live performances (too numerous for me to count, since 1967) and recorded output (over 60 released recordings of his own, and at least that many more projects to which he’s lent his nimble fingers) has made him the subject of three (!) retrospective boxed sets of his music: In 1993, “Watching The Dark,” for which I interviewed Thompson and wrote liner notes; in 2006, “RT – The Life and Music of Richard Thompson,” almost all previously unreleased tracks; and again, in 2009, “Walking On A Wire,” with an introductory essay by my old pal, Variety and Billboard journalist Jim Bessman.

Thompson’s intensity and passion are wellobserved on any of those boxed sets, or on two tribute compilations of other artists’ interpretations of his work: Capitol ‘s “Beat the Retreat: Songs by Richard Thompson,” and Green Linnet’s “The World Is a Wonderful Place: The Songs of Richard Thompson,” both released in 1994. You can buy direct from Thompson’s Web site, www.richardthompson-music.com, but even better, if you still can, get some tickets to hear him live in Baton Rouge, on Mon., Nov. 9, at the Manship Theatre, where he and another hard-to-pin down singer/writer, Loudon Wainwright III, will be performing their Loud and Rich tour. You will not be sorry. Call (225) 344-0334 and hope there are some tickets left.

Jambalaya reader Bill Day sent along a few more mondegreens from the church hymn, “While Shepherds Washed Their Socks by Night” and The Lord’s Prayer, “Our father, who’s Art in heaven.” I love ‘em. Send more to leslie@leslieberman.com.

TJN

Richard Thompson Volume 1 • Issue 16

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 53

Around Town With The Jam We Don’t Just Report It, We Support It!

Brad West of West Builders, LLC and Phil de Albuquerque served up taco soup and a whole lot of fun at the annual Taste-N-Tell fundraiser at the Grand Marais Ballroom in Jennings. The event raised over $65,000 for Communities Against Domestic Abuse (CADA).

Phil and Lauren recently attended the 25th Anniversary Celebration of Women and Children’s Hospital. The elegant event was held on the grounds of the hospital and was a fitting tribute to all who have contributed to its success.

The Jambalaya News donated cases of Gatorade for the participants in the Ethel Precht Cancer Walk. It was a glorious day with a recordbreaking crowd, and the organizers were thrilled with the turnout.

PAGE 54

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Volume 1 • Issue 16

West Builders has been doing construction since 1994.

We are a locally owned company dedicated to the growth of Southwest Louisiana. Our customers are our top priority and can enjoy top quality construction in remarkable time frames. Call today and see how we can make your residential and commercial dreams come true.

• • • •

New Residential Construction New Commercial Construction Outdoor Structures Restorations & Additions

Brad West

Volume 1 • Issue 16

NOVEMBER 5, 2009

PAGE 55