VOL. 2, NO. 6 /JUNE 17, 2010
ALSO: Doyle on the Spill: Spare Me the Outrage American Wind Symphony Orchestra • Sulphur’s Community Gardens
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GENERAL 715 Kirby St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 www.thejambalayanews.com PUBLISHER Phil de Albuquerque
contents COVER STORY 27
publisher@thejambalayanews.com
NEWS MANAGING EDITOR Lauren de Albuquerque lauren@thejambalayanews.com
EDITOR Lisa Yates lisa@thejambalayanews.com
CONTRIBUTORS Leslie Berman Sarah Blackwell George Cline James Doyle Dan Ellender Maria Alcantara Faul Mike McHugh Mary Louise Ruehr Brandon Shoumaker Karla Tullos ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANT Patricia Prudhomme SALES ASSOCIATES Jody Barrilleaux Katy Corbello Faye Drake Todd Elliott Karla Tullos GRAPHICS ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Darrell Buck ART/PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Michelle LaVoie
Women and Children’s Hospital: We Deliver
On Cover: From l-r, James Brown, M.D., Rachel Chua, M.D., Eugene Fontenot, M.D. David McAlpine, M.D., Karen Fisher, M.D., Gladys Miller, M.D., Stanley Kordisch, M.D. and TriCia Guidry, M.D. Photo by www.monsoursphotography.com.
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REGULARS 7 15 16 17 19 22 24 34
The Boiling Pot Doyle’s Place The Dang Yankee Tip’s Tips Zestful Life Greener World What’s Cookin’ Sports Report
FEATURES 5 20
Wind on the Water Bayou Biz: Disabled but Determined
ENTERTAINMENT 36 38 39 40 41 47 51 53
Red Hot Books Funbolaya Family Night at the Movies Killin’ Time Crossword Society Spice Jambalaya Jam The Local Jam Eclectic Company
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BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kay Andrews MARKETING INTERN Morgan Murray Legal Disclaimer The views expressed by The Jambalaya News columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Jambalaya News, its editors or staff. The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by The Jambalaya News, LLC, 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 2010 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited. Volume 2 • Issue 6
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We are now accepting credit cards! JUNE 17, 2010
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A Note From Lauren Thanks, Daddy I haven’t had anyone to give a Father’s Day gift to since 1986. That’s a pretty long time. My father and I were not very close. From an early age, I preferred my mother; she was my world. I couldn’t relate to my father; he was 40 when I was born so he always seemed pretty old. He was set in his ways. He came from Italy and was very traditional and conservative. And he had that crazy Italian temper, which, it seems, I inherited from him. I never knew what would set him off, but it was usually something that I did, or said, or didn’t do. He would blow up, and I’d either get away from him as fast as I could (when I was little) or, as I got older, stand my ground and give it back to him. The difference is that my father got over his anger right away (until the next time, of course). I, on the other hand, could brood over what he’d said to me for days. This obviously didn’t make for the best relationship. I knew my father loved me, but I never felt that he liked me very much. And I’ve carried this with me all of my life. So this Father’s Day, I want to give my dad a gift. I want to remember all that he did for me through the years, and I want to thank him—for being a good man who provided for his family, who loved his wife, who had a great sense of humor, who drew the most wonderful drawings for me when I was sick, who would carry me up the stairs whenever we came home late at night (I would lift my arms and say, “Carry me!”), who watched Lost in Space and Star Trek with me, who would bring me bubblegum from the vending machine in his office, who took me to see James Bond films, who used to teach me Italian and tell me stories about his youth in Africa. Thanks for everything you ever did for me, Daddy. I know you loved me—and you know that I loved you. And in the end, that’s all that matters.
Meet Morgan Murray Morgan is a senior marketing and management double major at McNeese State University and will be graduating in the fall. She is a Phi Mu, member of the SGA, RotarACT, and is the reigning Miss McNeese. She has been involved in pageantry for the past 13 years and enjoys being active in the community. As a lifelong resident of Westlake, Southwest Louisiana is her home. She is enjoying her internship at The Jambalaya News learning about her chosen field of marketing, and gaining hands-on experience to prepare her for the business world. We don’t know how she can keep up with Phil in her stilettos, but so far, she’s doing a great job!
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– Lauren de Albuquerque
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By Lauren de Albuquerque
Every once in awhile, I’m fortunate enough to experience something truly awe-inspiring. Last month, the American Wind Symphony Orchestra came to Lake Charles. It’s a musical ensemble primarily comprised of the wind instruments found in a symphony orchestra, although there’s a brass and percussion section as well. The orchestra performs contemporary classical music. Other than their talent, you’re probably wondering what makes them so special. Founded in 1957 by Robert Austin Boudreau, the American Wind Symphony has been bringing its music to the masses for 53 years via a spectacular floating arts center and stage. That’s right, floating. The music is performed on a massive barge called Point Counterpoint II. The streamlined, 195-foot long steel vessel is equipped with a 75-foot-wide stage, the roof of which is raised up by hydraulic lifts at performance time. The stage area is spanned by an acoustical shell, and is equipped with permanent pedestal seating created by Japanese sculptor Yasuhide Kobashi.
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Designed by world-famous architect Louis I. Kahn, Point Counterpoint II has been the waterborne home of the orchestra since its construction in 1976, replacing the first barge that the orchestra had used since its inception. Boudreau’s reputation and that of his orchestra grew to such an extent that a new vessel became necessary. HOW IT BEGAN Conductor Robert Boudreau is a fascinating man—and he’s proof that if you have a dream, your talent and ambition can make it happen. He grew up on a chicken farm in rural Bellingham, Massachusetts, with no plans to leave his country roots—until the day he picked up a trumpet. His talent ended up taking him to Juilliard in New York City, one of the world’s most prestigious arts conservatories, where he earned both undergraduate and graduate degrees, and then on to Paris as a Fulbright Scholar at the Paris Conservatory. After teaching music in various colleges, he took a position at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. His first sight of that city’s three rivers -- the Allegheny, the
Monongahela and the Ohio – inspired him to envision a floating orchestra of woodwinds, brass and percussion that would play free concerts aboard a barge, and travel to waterfront cities and towns all over the world. Aided by funding from entities such as Pittsburgh-based H.J. Heinz Company and Duquesne University, Boudreau founded the American Wind Symphony Orchestra in 1957. The barge became his floating stage. Here’s where the story gets even more unique: Not only is he the conductor, he’s also the skipper of this 195-foot barge. Yes, Boudreau navigates this enormous vessel through waterways near and far. Talk about a Renaissance man! THE ORCHESTRA Another distinctive aspect of the American Wind Symphony is that its membership changes from year to year, and is comprised of young professional musicians (many still in college) from all over the world. Through the years, more than 1,500 musicians have successfully auditioned for the orchestra, many going on to exceptional performing or teaching careers. Boudreau and his wife Kathleen (his “first mate”) live on the barge while it’s touring, where there is room for them and up to 13 crew
members and staff to reside. There’s also a small theater where most of the patrons’ concerts take place, and an art gallery below deck. Yes, an art gallery. Through the years, Boudreau has collected pieces of art from the orchestra’s many voyages, and they are now exhibited aboard the Point Counterpoint II. The musicians do not live on the barge; rather, they stay with local families for a few days at each stop along the concert route. The orchestra’s community residency program is organized well in advance of upcoming tours. Committees at each performance site take great care in matching host families with the musicians in the group, whose ages average out to 23 years. Because the Lake Charles trip was a last-minute addition, the musicians stayed in local hotels during their stay in Southwest Louisiana. A NIGHT TO REMEMBER Phil and I were invited to attend a media concert and reception in the Point Counterpoint II’s theater the night before the orchestra gave their public performance on the lakefront. I had received only a little bit of information about the American Wind Symphony that day, so the night was not only entertaining; it was a learning experience as well. It was a surreal experience to be aboard the floating arts center, lis-
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tening to the amazing music created by these talented young people, all dressed in black. They were only three days into their tour, yet performed as if they’d been together for years. We were informed that one piece they played had only been rehearsed once—about an hour before we arrived! Conductor Boudreau, wearing a snazzy brocade tuxedo jacket and turtleneck, joked with the audience and his musicians with his thick Yankee accent, relating fascinating anecdotes about his 50+ years mak-
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ing music along the waterways of the world. We learned that the orchestra spent three years overseas, where they were present for the bicentennial celebration of France, the 800th Anniversary in England and were the first U.S. vessel in Leningrad. In all, the ship has sailed more than 500,000 miles. There are many times when Boudreau goes without sleep when he needs to navigate overnight. Another interesting fact: Boudreau has commissioned an
unprecedented 400 works of contemporary music by prominent composers worldwide, which have been premiered during each season’s concert tour. After the performance, we were led down to the gallery to observe the art. “Don’t miss my chickens!” Boudreau said, pointing out some pieces with poultry themes, given to him in recognition of his early years on his family’s chicken farm. There were stone carvings from Israel, big, colorful oil paintings from Haiti, and so much more—and there was a
story for each of them. Since the concerts free, he isn’t shy about how he funds his operation. “I’m a professional beggar,” he said, relating how he seeks patrons and donations in every port. CDs and other related items are also sold at each concert. When he’s not performing, Boudreau and his family live in Mars, Pennsylvania (just north of Pittsburgh). After 2004, the conductor was on hiatus for a while, but after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita hit, he was motivated to travel to Louisiana in 2006. The name of that tour was the “Spirit of Louisiana” and the reception they received was so impressive that they returned the following year. Boudreau has had an amazing life to reflect on. From his humble beginnings, he’s traveled over half a million miles, bringing music and goodwill all over the world. He’s achieved something that most of us can’t even begin to imagine—but because he had a dream, we can sit on the waterfront on a balmy night and listen to these young musicians making their dreams come true—and we can dream, too. TJN
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The
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Please submit press releases to lauren@thejambalayanews.com
L’AUBERGE DU LAC PROMOTES CRYSTAL MILLER L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort announces the promotion of Crystal Miller to the position of public relations and communications manager. Miller joined L’Auberge in 2008 as recognition manager. In her new role, Miller will continue to oversee internal communications while expanding her participation in public relations efforts. Miller, a native of Lake Charles, has strong community ties as a board member for the Ethel Precht HOPE Breast Cancer Foundation and the Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana. She is a memCrystal Miller ber of the Ad and Press Club of Southwest Louisiana, the Black Heritage Foundation Festival Committee and the United Way Communications Committee.
Glen D. Bertrand, president and CEO of City Savings Bank (center), presents Richard Reid, executive VP of the McNeese Foundation (second from right), with the $15,000 donation, along with City Savings Bank representatives Belton Thibodeaux Jr.(from left), Matthew Bowles, and John L. Marcello Sr. McNeese Photo. CITY SAVINGS BANK PLEDGES TO MSU City Savings Bank presented $15,000 to McNeese State University as part of its $75,000 pledge for the City Savings Bank & Trust Scholarship through the McNeese Foundation.
Darrell Buck accepting his prize from library director, Michael Sawyer. LOGO CONTEST WINNERS ANNOUNCED The Calcasieu Parish Public Library Board of Control is pleased to announce the winners of the recent library logo contest. Kristi Broussard, marketing, PR and sales supervisor for Cameron Communications won first place. Darrell Buck, art director for The Jambalaya News, won second place. Each winner was awarded a cash prize from the Calcasieu Chapter of Friends of the Library. Participants were instructed to characterize public libraries and Calcasieu Parish, while using the color scheme of the library Web page in their entries. A panel of professional artists judged all entries and submitted the winning entries to the Library Board of Control, who had the final say in awarding the prizes.
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DR. SUSAN BOYD RECEIVES CMN ‘MIRACLE MAKER’ MEMORIAL AWARD The recipient of the 2010 Children’s Miracle Network Dr. Charles Michael “Buzzy” Vanchiere, Sr. “Miracle Maker” Memorial Award is CHRISTUS St. Patrick ENT, Susan W. Boyd, M.D. Dr. Boyd is the ear, nose and throat doctor who has treated Erica Weldon, the 2010 CMN Miracle Kid. Dr. Boyd has been practicing medicine in Lake Charles since 2000 with a specialty in Otolaryngology. She is a 1986 graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine and completed her residency at LSU Shreveport in 1992.
Dr. Susan Boyd
HART EYE CENTER WANTS YOU TO CHOOSE PHOTO CONTESTANT WINNERS Hart Eye Center has opened public voting to determine the winners of the “Your Life in Focus” Photo Contest. Voters can visit harteyecenter.com to choose their favorite photo from a group of 12 finalists. The contestant whose photo receives the most votes by June 30 will receive the grand prize: custom JUNE 17, 2010
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LASIK. The contestant with the second-highest number of votes will receive a pair of Maui Jim Sunglasses. If the grand prize winner is not an eligible candidate for LASIK eye surgery, the winner will have the option to donate the service to someone in need or to an immediate family member; or access equal credit for Hart Eye Center eye care services (not including Lakeside Optical). For more information, contact Jen Breen at jbreen@ocarroll.com.
Larry Graham, Memorial’s president and COO, accepts a contribution from (left to right) Bobbie Jefferson, Auxiliary president; Dorothy Bryant, Auxiliary treasurer, Leif Pedersen, Memorial’s senior VP of philanthropy; Barbara Bourgeois, Auxiliary immediate past president; Reta Kaspar, Auxiliary president-elect; and Sherry Schofield, director of volunteer services.
1616 West McNeese • 337-478-3232 Dr. Harry Castle • www.oakparkdental.com
LAKE CHARLES MEMORIAL VOLUNTEERS DONATE $100,000 TO CAPITAL CONTINGENCY FUND The Lake Charles Memorial Hospital Auxiliary recently made a $100,000 donation to the Memorial Hospital Capital Contingency Fund. The funds raised by Memorial’s Auxiliary were through proceeds from the gift shops at Memorial Hospital on Oak Park and Memorial Hospital for Women on West Gauthier and proceeds from sales of their handmade flower arrangements. The funds will be put towards new medical equipment and other necessary upgrades and renovations throughout the hospital. The Auxiliary also raises money through fundraisers such as jewelry and bake sales to provide three scholarships for students at McNeese State University who plan to pursue careers in health care. For more information, call Volunteer Services at (337) 494-2493. MSU RODEO TEAM COMPETES IN CNFR Eight members of the McNeese State rodeo team have qualified for the 62nd College National Finals Rodeo to be held in Casper, Wyo. Representing McNeese are: Jeremy Mouton, Scott, and Winn Ratliff, Leesville, in bareback riding; Kobyn Williams, Deberry, Texas, and Dean Wadsworth, Ozona, Texas, in saddle bronc riding; Josh Torres, Ocala, Fla., and Jeremy Mercer, Winnsboro, team roping; Allison McDaniel, Reeves, in breakaway roping; and Lara Dewees, Lacoochee, Fla., in barrel racing. Over 400 students from more than 100 universities and colleges will compete in this year’s event. DR. THOMAS PRICE AWARDED SILVER ANTELOPE BY BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA Thomas H. Price, D.D.S., was awarded the Silver Antelope by the Southern Region of the Boy Scouts of America at the national meeting held recently in Dallas. The Silver Antelope is the highest award a region may bestow on a volunteer for service. Dr. Price is one of four Eagle Scouts in his family. He is a Regent for Life of the National Eagle Scout Association, receiving his Distinguished Eagle Award in 2009. Dr. Price is a National Council Member and currently serves as the Dr. Thomas Price Area 1 Commissioner for the Southern Region of the Boy Scouts of America. Dr. Price and his wife Cindy have a daughter, Michelle and a son, Clayton, who recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Dr. Price, who has been practicing general dentistry in Lake Charles for the past 23 years, is a member of the Louisiana Volunteers in Mission, traveling to Mexico to provide free dental care to the poor. He also provides free dental care in his own community through the Calcasieu Community Clinic and the Louisiana
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Foundation for the Handicapped. He served on the Board of Boy’s and Girl’s Village Foundation for 15 years, including three years as president. He is a member of the Power Squadron and the Lion’s Club in Lake Charles and also serves as president of Krewe Déjà vu du Monde.
Eric Zartler, Anne Monlezun and Oscar Jordan, Tournament Co-director. CVB PROVIDES SPORTS WARCHEST GRANT FOR PORT OF LAKE CHARLES/GAMBLERS SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau provided financial assistance for programming through a Sports Warchest Grant in the amount of $4,000 for the Port of Lake Charles/Gamblers Softball Tournament. In its 33rd year, this adult tournament has more than 90 participating teams. Sports Warchest funds will be used for official fees, security, game equipment, advertising, field rental and awards. The Sports Warchest Grant is intended to enhance and encourage tournaments in Calcasieu Parish. For more information, contact 436-9588.
From left to right: Leslie Petross, partners president, Allison Callahan, scholarship recipient, Ann Callahan, WCCH employee/recipient’s mother. ALLISON CALLAHAN RECIPIENT OF WCCH PARTNERS SCHOLARSHIP Each year, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital’s Employee Organization awards a high school senior child of a WCCH employee or a high school senior employee of WCCH with a scholarship worth $1,200 to an accredited college or university, or an approved vocational technical school. To receive the scholarship, the student must have achieved a 3.0 GPA and must have been accepted by the school of their choice. The 2010 WCCH Partners Scholarship recipient is Allison Callahan, a 2010 graduate of Sulphur High School and the daughter of Danny and Ann Callahan of Sulphur. She plans on attending McNeese State University in the fall with an intended major in nutrition. Ann Callahan is a medical technologist with WCCH. For more information on the scholarship, contact Leslie Petross at (337) 527-4282. WCCH IS AREA’S ONLY IN-NETWORK HOSPITAL PROVIDER OF ANESTHESIOLOGY SERVICES FOR BC/BS OF LA SUBSCRIBERS West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital recently entered into a contract with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana as well as West Calcasieu Anesthesia Volume 2 • Issue 6
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to become the only in-network hospital provider of anesthesia services in the area, a service that is vital for mothers delivering babies and those undergoing surgical procedures. Any anesthesia charges incurred by Southwest Louisiana residents with Blue Cross insurance, at a hospital other than West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH), will result in outof-network expenses to the patient. Depending on the type of anesthetic administered, the procedure, and the Blue Cross policy, this could result in patient costs from $500-$1500 dollars. For questions regarding this new development, sub-
scribers may call WCCH at (337) 528-7375. DANNY LANDRY APPOINTED TO PHYSICAL THERAPY BOARD Governor Bobby Jindal recently appointed Danny P. Landry, PTA, to the Physical Therapy Board for a three-year term. Landry holds a physical therapist assistant license in Louisiana and Texas and is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and the Louisiana Physical Therapy Association. He has been appointed to serve on the advisory panel of physical therapist assistants for the APTA for the term of
July 2010 thru June 2013. He is the owner of Residential Rehab Services Incorporated and has practiced as a physical therapist assistant for the past 17 years. POLICE JURY AWARDED COASTAL IMPACT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM GRANT The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury was awarded a Minerals Management Service Grant for the Clear Marais Bank Protection Project, which is part of the State Coastal Impact Assistance Program. The $175,000 grant will be used to extend an existing rock
armored shoreline stabilization structure approximately 4,100 feet to prevent continued erosion along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway bank. Authorized by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the Coastal Impact Assistance Program allocated and distributed $250 million annually from 2007 through 2010 to coastal states and political subdivisions with oil and gas production in Federal waters off their coastlines. Additional information can be found at www.mms.gov/offshore/CIAPmain.htm.
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Photo by www.monsoursphotography.com
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Buffy - 1 yr.
Buzz - 2 yrs.
Serena
Sheldon
George - Beagle
Lilly - Beagle
Ian - Beagle
Jim - 3 yrs.
April - 2 yrs.
Kitten - 9 weeks
Andy - 2 yrs.
Panda - Black Mouth Curr/Shep mix
Rosie - 3 yrs.
Theo - Chi/Rat Terrier 1 yr.
Sylvester - 1 yr.
Dub - Fox Terrier mix 2 yrs.
Ella - Border Collie mix 18 mos.
Jimbo - Cattle Dog mix
Savory - 2 yrs.
Gray Tabby Kitten
For more information on the above pets, please call LAPAW Rescue at (337) 478-7294 or (337) 244-4563 The following rescue groups also have pets available for adoption! Animal Services: (337) 721-3730 • 4 Paws on the Bayou: (337) 558-5184 Volume 2 • Issue 6
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Lake Area Classes, Seminars, Workshops
Burton Coliseum Events Begin at 7:30pm See World Champions Mike White and Chris Shivers in a match up as hometown hero Mike rides his two last bulls! Many competeing champion PBR bull riders and bulls will be part of this spectacular event.
WATERCOLOR CLASS FOR KIDS JUNE 21 McNeese State University is offering “Splash Dance with Watercolor“ with Nancy Melton. Kids from third grade and up can learn watercolor painting on June 21 from 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. The class is $39. To enroll, call May Gray at 475-5130 or (800) 6223352 ext. 5130, or e-mail her at mgray@mcneese.edu. CAMERON STATE BANK’S ‘GET IT TOGETHER, GIRL’ JUNE 22 Area women are invited to a free seminar hosted by Cameron State Bank. “Get it Together, Girl!“ will be held Tues., June 22, at the main office of Cameron State Bank (4440 Nelson Road in Lake Charles). Seating is limited. For reservations, call 312-7731. Registration and refreshments begin at 5:30 p.m.; program is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Door prizes will be given away throughout the evening. SEMINAR ON GERD AT WCH JUNE 22 Women & Children’s Hospital is collaborating with Keith Chung, M.D., a board-certified general surgeon and independent member of the WCH medical staff, to offer patients a non-invasive treatment for GERD (better known as chronic heartburn). Dr. Chung will offer a free educational seminar on Tues., June 22 at 6 p.m. in the WCH First Floor Classroom, located at 4200 Nelson Rd. For more information or to register, call 475-4075.
BONE HEALTH SEMINAR AT CHRISTUS JUNE 24 A free seminar on bone health for the entire family will be held on Thurs., June 24, at 6 p.m. at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital’s Garber Auditorium located at 430 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive. Seating is limited. Call 4917577 to register today. LWV/CHAMBER LEGISLATIVE WRAP UP JUNE 25 The Chamber SWLA is co-hosting the League of Women Voters’ SWLA Legislative Wrap Up on June 25 at Reeves Uptown Catering. The Southwest Louisiana delegation will reflect on the 2010 Legislative Session and answer questions. Networking starts at 11:30 a.m.; lunch and program begin at noon. Cost is $20 for League and/or Chamber members, and $25 for non-members. If you’re interested in attending, contact info@lwv-lc.org or call 474-1864. HART EYE CENTER HOLDS FREE EYE SCREENINGS JUNE 26 Hart Eye Center of Lake Charles will hold free eye screenings on June 26 to help you protect your vision from the damaging effects of cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration. These are serious eye diseases that cannot only damage vision, but if left undetected or untreated, have the potential to cause blindness. To schedule a free screening, call Hart Center at 4394014 to make an appointment. For more information, visit www.harteyecenter.com.
Add some spice to your life! The Jambalaya News is looking for a Media Sales Representative. Full-time position, prior sales experience required. E-mail resume to publisher@thejambalayanews.com or call (337) 436-7800 ext. 106 for more information.
KARLA HUNT 3028 Ryan St. 433-9720 715 Kirby Street, Lake Charles, 70601 PAGE 12
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Classes, Seminars, Workshops continued CAREER/JOB FAIR JUNE 28 The Calcasieu Youth Organization is holding a Career/Job Fair from June 28 - July 2 at the Lake Charles Civic Center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Organizations can lease a booth for $300, for all three days. The Career Fair includes a Revival in our Town (RIOT) Teen Summit on June 26 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and RIOT classes Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. covering music, life preparation, and other classes such as karate, drama, drill team, etc. For more information, call 304-6497. DAY OF DANCE AND ARTS ENRICHMENT ON JUNE 29 Join Munchkins and Mommies in a “Day of Dance and Arts Enrichment” benefiting the Calcasieu Women’s Shelter. The Calcasieu Women’s Shelter provides free and confidential services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence, and offers crisis intervention 24/7. For more information on the shelter, call 436-4552. Moms and children ages 3 months - 10 years can join in one of the classes on June 29. The costs are $10 per dance for Mommy and Me class, and $30 per Half Day Arts Enrichment class. Classes will be held at Central School. Register at munchkinsandmommies.com or call April Lafargue at 540-4129 for the schedule. All proceeds will go to the shelter. Munchkins & Mommies is a new arts enrichment, dance, and fitness studio opening this July at Central School catering to moms and children up to 10 years of age.
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ARTS CAMP! AT ICM WEEK STARTING JULY 5 Consider Arts Camp! The Imperial Calcasieu Museum will be holding Arts Camp this year with weekly sessions beginning on July 5, 12, 19 and 26. Arts Camp is for students who have completed kindergarten through 8th grade. Tuition for a week is $55 for museum members, $65 for non-members. Classes are limited to 40 children and are from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call 439-3793 to register. Arts Camp is made possible through the generous support of CITGO Petroleum. ACTING FOR THE CAMERA! JULY 7-9 The Children’s Theater Company and Kerry A. Onxley, Artistic Director announces an additional workshop to its annual Summer Starz Series. Acting for the Camera! affords children the chance to experience acting on camera. The workshop covers auditioning for commercials, reading commercial scripts, exploring different commercial techniques, and beginning improvisational skills. Information is shared on resumes, headshots and how to find the best agent or manager. Students participate with hands-on camera experience. The workshop will be offered on July 7 9 from noon-1:30 p.m. for children ages 8-18. The cost is $85. The class has limited enrollment and is held at Central School of the Arts & Humanities Center (809 Kirby Street). No experience is necessary. For registration information, contact the theatre at 433-7323 or visit the Web site at www.childrenstheatre.cc.
Routine Eye Exams • Disease & Surgery of the Eye SWLA’s Cataract Surgery Specialist
Donald C. Falgoust, M.D. Board Certified Ophthalmologist
1980 Tybee Lane
477-0963
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United Blood Services and Academy Offering Donors A Chance At Free Golf Round Residents have the opportunity to celebrate life by joining in the community blood drive from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Fri., June 18 at Academy Sports and Outdoors on Derek Drive. Each blood donation can help up to three local patients. Every unit of donated blood is sent to United Blood Services’ laboratory for testing and processing. Trained laboratory technicians separate the whole blood into components (including red blood cells, plasma, platelets and cryoprecipitate). The need for blood increases greatly during summer months, while the number of donations decreases.
Donors will not only receive a United Blood Services hat, but they will be entered into a drawing to win a free round of golf for two at Koasati Pines. Volunteer blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger, and donors who are 16 must have signed permission from a parent or guardian. Potential donors may schedule an appointment by calling (337) 235-LIFE or logging on to www.UnitedBloodServices.org/ louisiana. TJN
Bucs Drop Two in a Row to the Catters The Louisiana Swashbucklers dropped back below .500 after getting shellacked for the second time in the 2010 season by the Lafayette Wildcatters 63-47. Lafayette struck early on a 157 lead in the first half of the game when quarterback Juan Joseph found Tim Richmond for a touchdown. The Catters defense had Bucs QB Freddie Harrison on the run upon which his pass was intercepted by Mitch Craft of Lafayette. Another TD pass to Richmond followed by an uno from kicker Sean Comiskey put the score up to 22-7. Louisiana was able to put points on the board later when Harrison threw a completion to Marcus Wilridge over Catters defensive back Jasper O’Quinn. Another score came when Louisiana fullback Kendrick Perry carried the ball into the end zone two plays after a 55-yard kickoff return from Wilridge. The second half turned out to be a completely different outing as both teams churned out one PAGE 14
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score after another on all of their offensive drives. The scoreboard read 47-35 Lafayette entering the fourth quarter. The Bucs would narrow the margin down to six on a 37 yard TD reception by Jabari Hendricks. On the next series however, Joseph chewed up time on the game clock using nine plays that would end on a keeper into the end zone. This put Louisiana down by 13 points. In the final two minutes of regulation play Harrison hit Bucs receiver Sammy Knight and Joseph found Catters wideout Clyde Edwards for a 12 yard score on a pass. Though both defenses were working on finding ways to shut down each team’s offense Lafayette came up with a stop after a turnover on downs. Lafayette ran out the clock to end the game. For information on tickets to a Swashbucklers game, call the box office Monday – Friday 9 a.m.– 4 p.m. at 310-PASS (7277) or visit www.labucs.com. TJN Volume 2 • Issue 6
oyle By Jim D
Spare Me the Outrage Like any resident of our traumatized state, I’m absolutely ill about the tragedy developing off our shores. But what is really tiresome to me is an army of politicians wearing American flag lapel pins pointing fingers at each other and trying once more to gain political advantage from our state’s bad luck. It’s Louisiana 1927 all over again. These sunshine patriots should be pulling together. Fix the problem, not the blame. That gets us nowhere. I was no fan of President Bush, for many reasons. But at least the criticism directed towards him during the Katrina disaster was as the head of a government that couldn’t get bottled water to 60,000 stranded and starving Americans on land, even though the Red Cross and Salvation Army managed the feat. Not only do the monster-shouters on conservative talk radio now seek to blame the government headed by President Obama for failing to stop an oil leak caused by a private company 100 miles offshore and one mile below the surface – hardly an equivalent problem – they seek to retroactively exonerate President Bush and Brownie! That’s a little much. I don’t care any more why things went wrong in Katrina. Most of that was beyond our control, and the lessons we learned guaranteed (I hope) that such a human tragedy won’t happen again. And although I care what happened to cause the oil hurricane, particularly the loss of 11 lives in the initial explosion, I’m not sure we can do anything to guarantee it won’t happen again. At least, not anything that won’t, in the long run, be counterproductive. Most of us in this state have at least a passing knowledge of the oilfield, and many have hands-on experience. Mine is based on handling lawsuits, so it’s heavy on things going wrong. But from my vantage point, Volume 2 • Issue 6
the genius of this country’s effort in domestic oil production has, as in most things, been the can-do American spirit that drives it. Like any imperfect human enterprise, there is a risk of great loss. We know that going in. Coalmine collapses kill people, but we still use coal to fire our power plants. Now, we suffer the effects of filling our gas tanks driven by mindless politics, whether it’s “Drill Baby, Drill” or President Obama caving to the right by opening heretofore closed tracts of offshore drilling lands to exploration. Either way, we made that deal with the devil a long time ago. Now he’s come to collect. It’s also a little hypocritical to criticize our politicians for taking money from BP, whether it was years ago or yesterday. Of course they took the money. They take money from everybody who offers it. The Democrat in charge of writing the health care “reform” bill took millions from the insurance industry to guarantee the death of any form of public option. Politicians of all stripes have taken BP money, good, clean oil money, before there was any hint of controversy and justified it by saying they were for “renewable resources,” making gasoline out of corn and diesel out of McDonald’s used French fry grease. And it’s that Faustian bargain, dear readers, that is ultimately going to cook our collective goose. I know the fashionable thing to do is demonize BP, but having been here before, in the end, there’s going to be plenty of blame to go around. Remember, this tragedy occurred after BP and its partners, including Anadarko Petroleum of Houston, pushed the limit of technology and their pocketbooks in hopes of a great reward. And, by the way, they were doing what we as a society wanted
them to do: produce oil here so we don’t have to buy it “from dictators who hate us,” in John McCain’s memorable phrase. Estimates of the drilling cost before the explosion exceed $360 million. Now, the loss of the hole and remediation efforts are going to cost upwards of $1 billion. Quite a tab to hand a company that was trying to do our bidding. And on top of that, there’s a move to institute a criminal prosecution. Here I depart somewhat from the conventional wisdom. I believe this accident occurred for many reasons, but primarily because ALL the workers on that rig were trying their damnedest to finish a horrendously expensive project as quickly as possible. Had it worked, they obviously would have hit a big paying hole and could have, in short order, moved the Deepwater Horizon off location (it costs upwards of half a million a day). Most of the time, their gamble would have worked. This time, it came up snake eyes. So, do we want to now handle this problem in that triedand-true American fashion of triplelocking the barn after the horses have escaped?
Closing the Gulf to future drilling, posting a government representative on each and every well to micro-manage how they drill, and other solutions being tossed around will be as effective as taking off our shoes to board an airplane. Oh, I forgot. Now they use underwear bombs, not shoe bombs. Okay. Now we’re talking about x-ray machines to check your underwear. Maybe I’d be in favor of that if Scarlett Johannsen was boarding and I was the gate guy. But please! Can we get real about this? Oil drilling, coal production, nuclear energy, and even windmill farms present great risks to human life and our environment. But until you agree to power your house with a private generator driven by methane produced in your own compost heap, quit driving your car, and reduce your standard of living, spare me the outrage, please. We’re all a part of this. America became a great country because we all pulled together. The logical end of pulling in opposite directions will be a greater tragedy than tar balls on the beach. Let’s find a way to fix the problem, not the blame. See you guys on the flip.
TJN
JUNE 17, 2010
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The
Dang Yankee By Mike McHugh
Greetings from Camp Duct Tape This is one of an occasional series of on-location reports that my editor, Lauren, has asked me to do from time to time. She thought that y’all would be interested in all of the wild, exotic places that I visit in my frequent travels. So, I figured I’d kick this off by reporting to you from the wildest, most exotic place on the entire planet, at least during late May and early June of each year—right here at Camp Duct Tape. So, where exactly is Camp Duct Tape? Why, it’s across the gravel road
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from Camp Mix’d Nuts, right next to Camp Tequila Mockingbird. You just had to ask, didn’t you? Seriously, these are just some of the names of camps that folks have set up here at the Quiet Valley Ranch, site of the annual Kerrville Folk Festival, which is located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country just south of the town of the same name (Folk, Texas— Population 176). The festival consists of 18 days of top quality folk and other roots-based music by top artists on two main
The Dang Yankee and his wife, Susan at Camp Duct Tape. stages, but that is not the best part. No, the best part of the festival is the music that goes on day and night in the campgrounds, such as those mentioned above. The quality of this music varies considerably, particularly given the fact that I, myself, play in these camps. The thing that has drawn me to the Kerrville Folk Festival year after year, more so than the music, is all of the interesting people that I have come to know and developed close friendships with. Take, for example, one of my best Kerr-friends, Papa Duct Tape, so named because he established the camp of the same name. What I really like about Papa Duct Tape is that he is the one guitar player here who actually knows fewer chords than I do. When he was learning, he got about five or six chords down and then discovered he could fit them to about a thousand songs, all of which he knows by heart. The man is a living, breathing version of iTunes. Still, I love to show off to him by demonstrating my knowledge of the C-sharpdiminished-add-eleven chord, to which he usually responds, “Oh, I just play a G there.” One thing I’ve never figured out was the significance of Camp Duct Tape’s name. I have yet to find one roll of duct tape in the whole camp. One time, I actually needed some for a small repair, but everyone at the camp had just got back from Tequila Mockingbird, which, fortunately, does live up to its name. Let me tell you one thing I’ve learned at this festival. If you are ever in need of duct tape, don’t ask people who have been drinking tequila. What Camp Duct Tape is really all about is playing music in the song circle— except, that is, when it gets to be my turn. It’s at that time when people wish for at least enough duct tape to bind my hands and mouth, so as to
prevent me from doing my 38th consecutive rendition of “Sympathy for the Devil,” which is the only song that I have learned to play. Actually, I do have one or two other numbers that I can pull out, but those are Jimmy Buffett tunes. I avoid playing them in the camp because it brings back bad memories for Papa Duct Tape’s sister. She was previously married to someone who, by the sound of it, actually tried to live out the lyrics of every one of Buffett’s songs. Luckily for her, she ended the relationship just before he got to acting out “Cuban Crime of Passion.” I do have a song that I do about Mexican beer, and it is quite popular in the camp, and very appropriate as well. You see; this part of Texas suffers from a shortage of water (except during one fierce storm that blew through the ranch that we dubbed “Hurricane Kerr-trina”), so we at the festival try to conserve this precious resource by substituting with beer. The Kerrville Folk Festival attracts lots of highly talented musicians and songwriters, and Papa Duct Tape is always happy for them to join in his song circle. This is subject to a strictly enforced time limit of four minutes per song. But, of course, time doesn’t really have much meaning here on the ranch. Thus, you will invariably have someone sit in who wants to do his number about the history of Texas, beginning with the dinosaurs—and with a verse for each century up to modern times. That’s not so bad, but in one case, it took the songwriter longer to talk through his introduction than it took to do the actual song. Luckily, someone from Tequila Mockingbird had stopped by with refreshments early on in the performance. By the time he was finished, he got a standing ovation. But that was just the tequila talkin’.
TJN Volume 2 • Issue 6
By George “Tip” Cline
CHAMPIONSHIP RING RAFFLE Drew Brees, our NFL Champion’s quarterback, has announced that the New Orleans Saints will raffle off an official New Orleans Saint’s NFL Championship Ring to benefit the Louisiana Gulf Coast oil spill recovery. It will be the same ring that the team members wear—a definite oneof-a kind item. Brees is known to be a heartfelt patron of the city of New Orleans and has been a huge contributor to the city’s Katrina recovery. Now, he’s lending his and the team’s influence to help the
people of the Louisiana coast to come back from this unprecedented disaster. Raffle tickets cost $2, with a minimum $10 purchase and are available at www.saintsgulfcoastrenewal.org. The winner will be announced at the Sept. 9 opening game against the Minnesota Vikings. This is a remarkable effort on behalf of the New Orleans Saints to offer this opportunity to own an item that is so meaningful to Louisianans while aiding in the much-needed recovery efforts. I plan to buy tickets, and I hope many of you will do the same.
TJN
Tip-Offs and Rip-Offs Part of this column is having readers share some “Tips” –or rip-offs they’ve encountered—of their own. There are several that I am going to pass along in this issue. Remember, if you want to share an idea that you think others would find useful, send it to lauren@thejambalayanews.com—and it just may end up here in your favorite paper. READ YOUR CREDIT CARD STATEMENTS A reader made a credit card payment at a resort and was charged an Advance Transaction Fee, like it was a cash withdrawal from an ATM. This cost him $100 in total fees on this transaction—without his consent. He hadn’t taken any cash out at all, but was charged as if he had. And Citibank had increased his annual percentage rate to a mere 66.649 percent for advances. Sure makes me want to do business that way! You have to stay on top of every move you make when it comes to other people handling your money. Luckily, the situation was rectified. THANKS BUT NO THANKS I just received a notice from my bank saying that they will soon stop automatically protecting me from myself for over drafting my account. They do offer to protect me from myself for $31.90 per overdrawn transaction and $5 a day after two days with the added benefit of having no limit on the amount of fees they can accumulate from that account. Can you imagine how fast that offer went into the shredder? You would have to be monumentally irresponsible in everyday money management to believe that the protection offered was worth the amount it would cost you to use it. Anyway, I cannot help but Volume 2 • Issue 6
believe that some people will jump to take advantage of that program. I sure wish them well. Maybe they’ll hit the Power Ball and it won’t matter. NOW THIS IS A DEAL! A friend who owns a business told me that Office Depot had advertised a 100 percent back reward for the purchase of certain items. If you were to purchase these items during the allotted offer period, you would receive back 100 percent of the purchase price in the form of an Internet/store credit for additional purchases. He ended up purchasing a year’s worth of office supplies totaling nearly $2,000—which gave him a matching credit. It would be more than worthwhile to look out for that kind of deal! WHEN IT’S CHEAPER TO USE A RENTAL Another reader analyzed the cost of a rental vehicle versus the use of his own car. He had to drive to New Orleans from Lake Charles, so, after researching different rental agencies, he found a $19.95 per day rental rate that included unlimited mileage at Enterprise Rental Agency in Sulphur. According to his math, it worked out to be a better deal for him to use a higher mileage rental vehicle as opposed to his own car. It’s an advantage to use a rental vehicle if the computation of miles per gallon overcomes the cost of the rental. Of course, you would probably sacrifice comfort and some features, but money saved is money earned. Do your own math and determine if this idea could work for you. Make sure you factor in gas price, mileage and the per-mile cost of your wear and tear, including insurance and upkeep costs, such as oil changes and tires.
JUNE 17, 2010
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JUNE 17, 2010
Volume 2 • Issue 6
The
Life
Daddy Dearest
too shy to talk about it, his wife was excited to tell me that every Saturday morning, Jeremy makes them chocolate chip pancakes. Since she was able to talk, Isabella would ask whether her daddy was off work because, “when Daddy is off, we get his pancakes.” Jeremy doesn’t just lend his hand on Saturday mornings; he also wakes the girls up, prepares their breakfast, gets them dressed, and even walks Isabella to school. Although he doesn’t have any sons, he practices his wrestling moves on his daughters (gently, of course!) and they love to participate. Amy Smith asserts that the most special thing her husband has done thus far is that after Isabella asked Jesus to be her savior, Jeremy had the honor of baptizing her in their home church. This local father gives “Daddy” a whole new meaning. Brandon Bellon has “bedtime talks” with his two daughters every night before they go to bed. The girls are not the only ones benefiting from the talks; Bellon says that he is amazed by their ideas and thoughts. Kelly Bellon says that her husband takes their girls to breakfast at
McDonalds every Friday morning and to school with their cousins. “He also coaches them in every sport they play. I could go on and on . . . Brandon takes care of them when they are sick so I don’t have to take off work, too,” she added. Gwendolyn Marcantel Malone says that her husband wakes up their daughter, cooks her breakfast and brings her to school every day. Miranda Lemoine Stansifer shares that her husband is teaching their daughter to love music. Connie Smith Rose said that since her two boys were six months old, her husband has tucked them into bed and shared God’s word with them every single night. David Ross Jemison says that he enjoys lighting candles and dancing with his daughter. Similarly, J.R. Sutherland dances to Van Morrison with his little girl after bath time. He says it’s the best part of his day. So “thank you” to all those fathers out there who are making a difference in their children’s lives. May your Father’s Day be as special as you are!
TJN
By Sara Blackwell
The role of the father has changed dramatically over the past several decades. Dad no longer “babysits” the children when Mom is out; he’s simply home with his kids. Fathers now incorporate the care of their children into their daily routines. And along with caring for them, it seems that fathers today also spend a lot more quality time with their children. My husband, Simon, loves being with our growing family. He has even gone as far as allowing Anna to paint his toenails! (Of course, he would never admit to it!)
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Simon and our two daughters attend a father-daughter dance once a year. The girls get new dresses and shoes, and I fix their hair and makeup while they giggle with excitement. Simon dresses in his best suit and leaves for the store to purchase flowers. He then he drives up to the front door and rings the doorbell to his own home. Anna and Catalina, dressed like princesses, answer the door. They smile shyly as their handsome father hands them flowers and invites them to the ball. The three of them enjoy a wonderful night—making memories that they will cherish for the rest of their lives. I know so many other dads who do similar special things with their kids—but are too modest to talk about it. Their wives, on the other hand, are only too willing to share how involved their husbands are in their children’s lives, and I am honored to share some of their stories. Amy and Jeremy Smith have two young daughters, Isabella and Alexandra. I know this family personally, so I was already aware that Jeremy did so many thoughtful things for his girls. While he was
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By Lisa Yates
Owner J.C. Warren with wife Kathy and trucking coordinator Toby Fuslier.
Disabled but Determined Man with Parkinson’s opens two new businesses: Go Mini’s of SWLA, Cowboy Tow & Recovery When J.C. Warren was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease back in 1996, he thought he’d have to give up work. After all, there’s no cure for PD at the present time. So at age 50, Warren took disability retirement from his job as a field executive for State Farm. He played golf when he was able, but mostly he sat on the sofa, which totally went against his work ethic. “My parents taught me that honorable people are hard-working people,” he said. Warren’s work ethic started young. He worked on a chicken farm from the age of 10. During the summers, he worked as a “root jack” removing roots from the ground to clear a path for road construction. While attending
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Shelbyville High School, he was an honor roll student and earned 16 varsity letters. McNeese Coach Ralph O. Ward recruited Warren to play basketball. “Coach Ward was looking for a football player to play basketball,” he said. “After the first practice, I knew why. The practice sessions were knock down drag outs, resembling football without the pads.” He said that Coach Ward’s method of putting players in adverse situations helped him endure some of the challenges in his life. His work ethic didn’t end there. After college, Warren coached and taught at Welsh High School, later becoming an administrator there. He also worked as a principal in Bell City
before beginning his career with State Farm. DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION FOR PD Not content with sitting on the sofa in retirement, Warren was determined to work again. He had a surgical procedure known as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) which is used to treat a variety of disabling neurological symptoms – most commonly the debilitating symptoms of PD – such as tremor, rigidity, stiffness, slowed movement and walking problems. “Dr. Jermaine Rao in New Orleans did the surgery,” he said. “I don’t know what I would have done without it.” He said DBS uses a surgically implanted medical device called a neuro stimulator, similar to a heart pacemaker, to deliver electrical stimulation to targeted areas in the brain that control movement, and blocking the abnormal nerve signals that cause tremor and PD symptoms. At present, the procedure is used only for patients whose symptoms can-
not be adequately controlled with medications. More than anything else, Warren said he wants others with PD to never give up hope. “You can still live with Parkinson’s,” he said. “There’s all kind of research going on. For example, Michael J. Fox, a good guy, is bringing a lot of awareness to Parkinson’s, and he has his own research foundation.” Warren said he’s not giving in to PD. “I was an athlete, then a coach and a teacher,” he said. “I always told the kids to ‘suck it up’ and do what they needed to do. Now I guess you can say I’m taking my own medicine. What I try to do every day is count my blessings. God has blessed me with so much.” He said he is grateful for his wife of 42 years, Kathy, and the couple’s three children and five grandchildren. Warren said Kathy was instrumental to his successful State Farm business before retiring. “Kathy is a champ,” he said. “She’s real good with people. When we
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worked together in Welsh, we were No. 1 in the company for 16 months, competing against agents in Houston and Dallas.” GO MINI’S OF SWLA Although workplaces are becoming more and more sensitive to the needs of disabled employees, Warren said there were not a lot of job opportunities for a 64-year-old man diagnosed with Parkinson’s. So he decided to create his own opportunity, purchasing a Go Mini’s Portable Storage dealership in July of 2009: Go Mini’s of SWLA. Located at 1508 N. Martin Luther King Hwy. in Lake Charles, Go Mini’s of SWLA specializes in portable and on-site storage. Warren said Go Mini’s are more than just portable storage units. “They are delivered to you on a diesel roll-back truck, and dropped off to load at your convenience,” he said. He said Go Mini’s are rented by the month, so you can take your time moving or remodeling your home. When you are ready, the storage unit is picked up and returned, or moved to your new location. Why this type of business? Warren said he got the idea after moving for his job. “When we moved back from Lafayette, we had stored away some of our good furniture,” he said. “It got wet and damaged when it was in storage.” That’s when he saw a need for a better type of storage facility. Warren said a friend of his had a Go Mini’s business in New Orleans. “When the storm hit, the units were covered by five feet of water,” he said. “After they dried out, they were back in service. They are durable. I felt like this was the best storage unit company to represent.” The containers are clean, ventilated and well-lit because of a transparent roof which allows light inside. They stand on casters 8 inches off the ground so water doesn’t seep in through the walls. The galvanized steel exterior coated with factory baked paint makes the units breathable – there’s no sweating to create moisture. Also, the flooring is moisture-resistant, treated, sealed and painted. Warren said the portable units come in three sizes: 12 x 8-foot; 16 x 8-foot; and, 20 x 8-foot. “We are the only portable moving and storage company on the market with a 20-foot container,” he said. He said customers can use Go Mini’s for many temporary storage applications, including excess invento-
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ry storage, seasonal merchandise, record storage, remodeling and construction, sports and recreational equipment, and much more. Warren estimated 60 percent of his clients are residential, using the units for moving, renovating or staging a home for a sale. “Most of our commercial clients are contractors,” he said. “They don’t want to move their heavy tools, so they use the Go Mini’s to store their tools onsite. They have a locking roll-up door that’s safe and secure.” COWBOY TOW & RECOVERY With $55,000 invested in a rollback delivery truck, Warren started thinking: Why not get into the towing business? “We were only using the truck a couple of days a week for deliveries,” he said. “I hated seeing the truck just sit there.”
He said a friend suggested a towing service, which sounded like a logical use of the equipment. After researching the business and adhering to regulations, Warren opened Cowboy Tow & Recovery as of May, 2010. “It’s an interesting business,” he said. “It’s regulated by the Public Service Commission with the State Police as the monitoring agency. A lot of people don’t know that. We have strict guidelines we have to follow for safety.” Cowboy Tow & Recovery offers three main services: • Towing and recovery • Roadside assistance 24/7 • Repossession tows You can count on customer-oriented service for on-time towing and roadside assistance when your vehicle breaks down, according to the business owner.
“We deliver a level of professionalism and service that’s beyond reproach,” he said. Warren said “the customer is No. 1” TJN at both Go Mini’s of SWLA, and Cowboy Tow & Recovery. “If we don’t have customers, we don’t have a business,” he said. “The customer is not always right, but the customer is always the customer. If we forget that, we’re in trouble.” For more information about these businesses, contact Go Mini’s of SWLA by calling (866) 879-3032, (337) 6541761; or, (866) GoMinis; visit online at www.PortableStorageSWLA.com. Contact Cowboy Tow & Recovery by calling (337) 656-2928; or, visit online at www.cowboytow&recovery.com.
TJN
JUNE 17, 2010
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A Greener
W
RLD
A Community Garden Sprouts in Sulphur By Maria Alcantara Faul
Sulphur resident Geoff Russell wanted to help create a beautiful and beneficial garden in the city of Sulphur. He envisioned volunteers tending to the garden, which would promote education, art and service to others. So in September of 2008, he presented a proposal to the Maplewood Lions Club to establish a community garden in the property adjacent to the club’s facility on Maplewood Drive. The Lion’s Club quickly took ownership of the project and led the initiative to establish the Sulphur Community Garden. Community gardens, as a whole, promote camaraderie within the community, and even result in fresh produce for its farmers. “Getting the community garden established started off at a slow pace,” stated Lion’s Club member and longtime Sulphur resident Nancy Tower. “We had a site Lion's club member Glen Bonin poses with volunteers Lilly and Cassondra Guilbeaux, and Sulphur Mayor Chris Duncan, in front of the Lion's Club Garden Box.
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Volume 2 • Issue 6
available, but we still had to get a process together on how the garden would operate. Proper planning and communication at the beginning of the project was vital to ensure that community members will have a pleasant experience with the garden.” So, the Lion’s Club community garden committee, headed by its president, Tim Lyons, worked on the plans. Answers to questions such as, “Is there sufficient interest?” “What is the purpose of the garden and what are its goals?” “How will the property be planted and maintained?” were only some of the issues addressed by the committee. On Sept. 19, 2009, through a grant from Sempra Energy, seeds for the Sulphur Community Garden were officially planted on 3310 Maplewood Drive in Sulphur. Sempra employees, as well as volunteers from throughout the community, built four raised garden beds as part of the first phase. Each bed measures 42 feet x 6 feet wide, is made of treated 4 x 4 lumber and filled with “good dirt” that is conducive for planting. The beds are also set up with water connections to make
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irrigation more manageable for volunteers. The first phase area will eventually have 30 gardening plots of various shapes and sizes, with walking paths, a gazebo, benches and displays of garden art. The community garden is great way to get both children and adults involved in beautifying their neighborhood while working with nature. It provides a catalyst for community development, and stimulates social interaction. The Sulphur Community Garden is currently home to an assortment of vegetables—squash, radishes, tomatoes, potatoes, and more, as well as wildflowers. “It has been a pleasure watching our gardeners harvest the fruits of their labor,” Tower said. Applications are being accepted from organizations interested in maintaining a garden bed. The beds need to be
maintained year round, so “adopting” a garden bed would be a good project for homeowners’ associations, neighborhood block groups, church groups, garden clubs, etc., to get involved in. Groups are also welcome to share beds. For example, Georgia Gulf and The Lions Club are currently tending to one garden bed; and a local resident maintains a garden box along with some students from a Sulphur elementary school. The Lion’s Club continues to make strides to grow the community garden. The group is currently engaging local and corporate partners to ensure its continued development.
“We hope to eventually have the garden symbolize Sulphur’s sense of community involvement and action,” Tower said. “Plans for future growth are in the works, and we will continue to look at what needs to be improved to maximize the full potential of the garden.” For more information about the Sulphur Community Garden, call Nancy Tower at 563-1191 or e-mail her at tower20@bellsouth.net. TJN Sempra employees building the first garden boxes for the garden.
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What’s Cookin’ Pappy's Catfish Cabin A New Enterprise in an Old Location Bryan Freeman had been working on the road in the construction business for 34 years, along with his son, BJ. Through the years, they had many a talk about starting a business in Moss Bluff, to be closer to their family, especially five-year old Bryanna, BJ’s daughter and the light of their lives. Clueless where their journey would lead, Freeman and his wife Sheri drove up to eat at Catfish Cabin one evening, and were surprised to see the “Going Out of Business” and “For Sale” signs. “I knew in my spirit that this was it,” Freeman said. He felt that he and Sheri would become the proud owners of Catfish Cabin, just six minutes from his home—and that BJ would go for it, as well. “With one phone call, everything fell into place,” he said. In December of 2009, Bryan and Sheri Freeman became the official owners of Catfish Cabin. Who better to name your restaurant than your precious granddaughter? When asked, she
told her grandfather that she liked the sound of “Pappy’s Catfish Cabin,” since she always called her grandfather Pappy. Later on she got to thinking about it—and informed him that another good choice could be “Bryanna’s Catfish Cabin!” Fried or grilled seafood and “world renowned” hush puppies make up the primary menu. All food is cooked to order—and is from the U.S. “No imports!” Freeman is quick to say. There’s a new signature dish called “Pappy’s Pounder,” which consists of a whole fried catfish with fin. For meat-eaters, there’s an excellent 12 oz. prime rib eye available, and the health and calorie conscious will appreciate the special healthy menu. And, starting in July, there will be live Cajun Music on weekends! Pappy’s Catfish Cabin is open six days a week. Tues-Thurs: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., Fri and Sat : 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; and Sun.: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. The following sauce recipe is son BJ’s very own. It’s delicious over baked, grilled or fried fish, or the grilled meat of your choice. Sheri, granddaughter Bryanna and Bryan Freeman
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Volume 2 • Issue 6
BJ’s Shrimp Pontchartrain Sauce INGREDIENTS • 10 Baby Bella mushrooms • 1 lemon • ½ lb. peeled, deveined shrimp medium sized 70/90 count • 1 cup heavy cream • 1 cup butter • 1 tblsp. minced garlic to taste • ¼ cup white wine • 1 tblsp. parsley • black pepper to taste
PREPARATION
Sauté mushrooms in 1 tblsp. butter until soft. Add shrimp; cook until pink. Remove mushrooms and shrimp from saucepan and deglaze with white wine. Add remaining butter. On low heat, slowly add cream, stirring continuously. Add garlic, parsley and pepper along with shrimp and mushrooms; then add the juice from one squeezed lemon and stir. Allow sauce to cook on low heat for about five minutes. Pour over your favorite fish or meat. Enjoy!
TJN
Kevin Davis hosts the Big O Trading Post on Super Talk 1400. This show invites listeners to call in and sell their items on the air. It has been a huge success and we are proud to now have the show on KAOK Super Talk 1400 AM on Saturday mornings from 9am-12noon.
Volume 2 • Issue 6
Host, Kevin Davis
JUNE 17, 2010
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Volume 2 • Issue 6
By Lisa Yates • Photos by www.monsoursphotography.com If you are looking for a place where you can experience the joys of pregnancy, labor, delivery and post care in a state-of-the-art facility where compassion and personalized care await you, count on Women & Children’s Hospital to deliver. For more than 25 years, Women and Children’s Hospital (WCH) has built a reputation of providing quality obstetrical, gynecological, neonatal and pediatric services to women and children throughout Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas. “We have been the area’s leader in providing obstetric services for women in the community with such a wonderful and experienced team of physicians,” said Annette Garber, director of marketing for WCH.
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LEADING OB/GYN PHYSICIANS DELIVERING AT WCH Garber said the hospital opened in 1984, with a group of eight obstetricians wanting to start a women and children’s hospital in the community. “It started out as Humana Women’s Hospital, but changed names over the years,” she said. “The physicians quickly saw a need to expand services to include the whole family. So in 1987, WCH expanded its range of services to include inpatient and outpatient surgery, a 24hour emergency department, intensive care services, diagnostic imaging, and physical, occupational and speech therapies, to name a few. We also offer a level III neonatal ICU, and have been recognized as a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence since 2007.”
She said today, the hospital has more than 400 dedicated hospital staff members and more than 100 affiliated physicians offering medical services in more than 36 different specialties. Garber stressed WCH is committed to continuing its legacy of obstetrics and neonatal excellence. “We have a large group of OB’s with great experience, with excellent records and reputations in patient care,” she said. “Why would you choose any place else to have a baby?” She said when it’s time for delivery you can be assured that you’re in terrific hands. WCH’s board-certified obstetricians and specially-trained nurses are at your side to share your very special day with you.
Garber said WCH has the best team available in the region, from general practitioners to highlyskilled surgeons and specialists who can handle any situation that arises before, during and after delivery. She said the hospital’s dedicated staff of board-certified obstetricians and gynecologists includes these leading physicians: • James Brown, M.D., OB/GYN, on staff 14 years; • Rachel Chua, M.D., GYN, on staff five 5 years; • Karen Fisher, M.D., OB/GYN, on staff 5 years; • Eugene Fontenot, M.D., OB/GYN, on staff 26 years; • TriCia Guidry, M.D., OB/GYN, on staff 5 years; • Stanley Kordisch, M.D., OB/GYN, on staff 25 years;
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Dr. James Brown
Dr. Rachel Chua
Dr. Karen Fisher
Dr. Eugene Fontenot
• David McAlpine, M.D., OB/GYN, on staff 13 years; • Gisle McKinney, M.D., OB/GYN, on staff 5 years; • Gladys Miller, M.D., OB/GYN, on staff 13 years; • Donald Parker, M.D., OB/GYN, on staff 11 years; • Alice Prestia, M.D., OB/GYN, on staff 5 years; and, • Howard Stelly, M.D., OB/GYN, on staff for 18 years. The OB physicians at WCH are known for their experience and expertise as well as their wonderful bedside manner. Bringing a child into this world is the biggest moment of a parent’s lifetime so they work hard to put moms and families at ease. In addition to this team of leading obstetricians, WCH has neonatal sub-specialists who can handle the special needs of babies who require an extra helping hand after delivery.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Just like in real estate, delivery is all about location, location, location. Choosing where to deliver your baby is a complicated decision and one you’ll want to decide upon as early in your pregnancy as possible. That way, if complications do arise, you’ll be well informed and you can concentrate on your health and the health of your baby instead of making last-minute decisions. Before your labor pains start, get answers to the following questions: • Is the hospital easy to get to? • How is it equipped to handle emergencies? • What level nursery is available? (Nurseries are rated I, II, or III – a level III neonatal intensive care unit [NICU] is equipped to handle any neonatal emergency. A lower rating may require transportation to a level III NICU.)
• What is the nurse-to-patient ratio? (A ratio of 1:2 is considered good during low-risk labor; a 1:1 ratio is best in complicated cases.) • What procedures are followed after your baby’s birth? Can you breastfeed immediately if desired? • Do you like the feel of the labor and delivery rooms? • Are private rooms available? • Can the baby stay in the room with you? Garber said if complications arise (and even if they don’t), you’ll be at the right place at the right time at WCH. She said WCH is the way to go. The hospital has diagnostic tools and resources at your disposal - conveniently located off Interstate Loop 210 - at 4200 Nelson Road, in Lake Charles. “Women should feel confident should they have complications, we
have several obstetricians and women’s health service professionals on staff, specializing in high-risk pregnancies,” she said. She explained pregnancies with a greater chance of complications are called “high risk,” but this doesn’t mean there will be problems. Special delivery or high risk candidates include women at a young age or older than 35; women overweight or underweight; women with problems in a previous pregnancy; women pregnant with twins or other multiples; and, women with health conditions prior to pregnancy, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or other conditions. Health problems also may develop during a pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia. Women with high-risk pregnancies often need prenatal care more
Dr. TriCia Guidry
Dr. David McAlpine
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Dr. Gisle McKinney
Dr. Gladys Miller Volume 2 • Issue 6
Dr. Donald Parker
frequently, and sometimes from a specially-trained doctor. Garber explained that a maternal-fetal medicine specialist is a medical doctor that cares for high-risk pregnancies. “We have a maternal-fetal medicine (perinatology) clinic on-site at the hospital monitoring women throughout the process,” she said. She said services at the hospital’s perinatology clinic include: 24-hour high risk obstetrician coverage; 24hour maternal-fetal monitoring coverage; high risk perinatal unit; adult ICU with obstetric services; fetal monitoring; level III NICU; prenatal and lactation education; and, two board-certified lactation consultants. LEVEL III NICU WCH is equipped with a level III NICU, which can handle most neonatal conditions that can develop as a result of a high-risk birth. Critically ill babies receive care at a 1:1 ratio – one R.N. to one baby. What is a level III NICU? Garber said a level III neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is the highest acuity level available. “We can take care of very sick babies and provide exceptional care
for most issues that come up,” she said. “Whether it’s a breathing complication or another issue, you don’t have to go out of town. We have specialists on staff to care for pre-term or sick newborns.” She said the hospital is staffed by board-certified neonatologists, including Dr. Juan Bossano and Dr. Chih Hao Lin. The staff pediatric cardiologist is Dr. Mudar Kattash. Garber explained that a neonatolosist is a physician specializing in the care for pre-term or sick neonates. She said occasionally, there are times when things don’t go as planned and babies need an extra level of care that only a skilled team of physicians, nurses and specialists can provide. When these issues do arise, the Level III neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at WCH is there to provide babies with the very best care available. The hospital’s NICU has a world-class team of neonatal specialists, supported by the newest technologies and techniques, compassionate and experienced nurses, and the latest treatments for the care of premature babies. Linda Pickett, R.N., director of Children’s Health and the NICU, said
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the professional staff caring for these infants includes registered nurses (R.N.s), neonatal nurse practitioners (N.N.P.s), respiratory therapists (R.T.s), and the neonatologists. “We realize that having an infant in the neonatal intensive care unit can be an emotionally trying time,” she said. “Our caring nurses place special emphasis on including parents in the care of their baby.” She said special provisions are made to accommodate the parents of infants transported in, including housing parents in vacant patient rooms as available. The hospital also offers the family an 800 number to facilitate communication when visitation is limited: (800) 470-3375. Garber said the hospital’s NICU visitation policy focuses on familycentered care, which encourages and promotes parent-infant bonding and attachment. “Parents are allowed to see their baby as often as possible, of course, taking the proper precautions like wearing special clothing to protect the baby,” she said. “Grandparents and siblings are also encouraged to visit.” WCH’S NEONATAL TRANSPORT TEAM A special part of neonatal services at WCH includes a neonatal transport team.
Garber said the team is staffed 24hours a day, 7 days a week. She said the team is comprised of speciallytrained R.N.s, a neonatal nurse practitioner, a respiratory therapist and a neonatologist. “We have a helicopter pad in the back of the hospital, where babies are flown in,” she said. “The team travels to surrounding hospitals by helicopter or ambulance, transporting critically ill newborns from a hospital without a neonatal intensive care unit into our level III NICU.” She said these professionals are focused entirely on the care of critically ill infants so families can be confident their baby is in the best of hands. LABOR, DELIVERY AND RECOVERY ROOMS (LDRS) For a woman without significant problems, private birthing suites known as LDRs (labor and delivery rooms) are an option at WCH. “Gone are the days when babies are whisked away after a woman gives birth,” Garber said. “As long as there are no complications, the baby can stay in the room with mom and dad so the bonding process can begin.” She said LDRs are set up to create a nurturing environment, with warm soothing colors and amenities that simulate a home-like atmosphere. “After mom delivers, the babies Photo submitted
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are weighed, measured and have their initial bath all in the room where mom, dad and other loved ones can take part in this very special moment. Many families enjoy capturing baby’s first bath by taking pictures or videotaping,” said Donna Colter, R.N., B.S.N., and Director of Women’s Health Services at WCH. And once your baby arrives, you can look forward to a visit with a board-certified lactation consultant and one-on-one parent education with a seasoned professional – these are just a few amenities available for the asking at WCH. RAVE REVIEWS WCH’s care team gets rave reviews from former patients including, being recognized with a 2010 Excellence through Insight award for “Overall Inpatient Satisfaction.” Garber said the award was presented by HealthStream Research, an independent organization serving the health care industry. “We were ranked amongst the top three across the nation in the small hospital (less than 100 beds) category,” she said. “We’re very proud of that.” In a recent news release, the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer praised WCH’s nurses, directors, support staff and physicians for “the incredible work they do every day.” “We treat our patients with courtesy and respect, while providing them the best health care possible,” he said. “Our goal is to exceed our patients’ expectations during their stay, and this award signifies that our patients recognize and appreciate the quality of care we provide.” Garber added the hospital’s Chief Nursing Officer Charlene Warren recently received the Outstanding Achievement Award from Community Health Systems, one of the nation’s leading systems of general acute-care hospitals. She said that award recognizes hospital leaders who have demonstrated an ongoing commitment to
quality health care and operational excellence. In accepting the award, Warren said she was proud to lead such an excellent team of nurses who are committed to the health and wellbeing of patients. “Women & Children’s Hospital is a great place to work and our staff is dedicated to promoting quality care,” she said. “This commitment is demonstrated every day through the actions and attitudes of our nursing team and ancillary staff.” Warren added the hospital was recently recognized with a Louisiana Gold Quality Award. “This is an exciting time for our hospital and this award just highlights the fact that we are making a difference in our community,” she said. ‘SEEING IS BELIEVING’ When it’s time to deliver your baby, you want a hospital you can trust. Garber said you want WCH. She said the hospital’s professionals consider it a privilege to labor with you and welcome your precious little one into the world. During your pregnancy you’re invited to WCH for a personal tour of the facilities. From prenatal classes to breastfeeding consultants, from birthing rooms to comfortable, homelike surroundings, you can see and feel the difference at WCH. Garber said “seeing is believing.” “It takes a unique blend of technology and compassion to deliver exceptional care,” she said. “That’s why, when it comes to small wonders, WCH delivers.”
SOME OF THE SERVICES OFFERED ARE: First GYN Exam • Gynecology • Obstetrics Hysterectomy • Lab Work • LEEP Menopause Treatment Well Woman Exam PREGNANCY CARE Abnormal Pap Evaluation Cyrosurgery Birth Control Counseling & Medication Colposcopy • Endometriosis Therapy Fetal Monitoring • Fertility Evaluation
Dr. Gladys Miller received her medical degree from LSU School of Medicine in Shreveport and performed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. She is also a registered pharmacist with a degree from Northeast Louisiana University. Dr. Miller, a native of Lake Charles, began her practice in the New Orleans area in 1986.
For a personal tour, visit 4200 Nelson Road in Lake Charles, or call (337) 475-4102 for an appointment. Hospital tours are available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Virtual tours are available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week online at www.women-childrens.com.
TJN
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ker n Shouma o d n a r B y B
Les Cheats My lovely wife isn’t really into sports, but she’s more than willing to learn. When we watch sports at home, I take care to try and describe what’s going on and I think I do a pretty good job. It is fun to be the teacher sometimes, explaining
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hockey’s icing rule or the importance of a pitcher changing a batter’s sight line in baseball so that my wife might be able to enjoy some of the same things I enjoy. But, I must admit, I am sometimes my wife’s student. Since we’ve been together, she’s been slowly teaching me all about her favorite sport: cycling. And it’s quite a bit more complicated than I thought. The first lesson I learned, though, was that my wife does not
miss the Tour de France. Never. In fact, one of our dreams is a monthlong trip to France in July so that we may visit Paris and then follow Le Tour around the countryside. But before I met my wife, I wouldn’t have known a peloton if it ran me down in the street. I knew what a yellow jersey meant (general classification/overall leader), but I had no clue there were three other colored jerseys at stake and that some riders don’t even try to win the yellow, striving to win one of the other colors instead. But, now, I understand not just
the rules of cycling, but also some of the tactics; the emphasis on teamwork in what looks, superficially, to be an individual sport. In my independent study, however, I’ve learned one more thing about the sport of cycling: almost to a man, professional cyclists (at least the ones competing in the Tour) are big, fat cheaters. There is an entire Wikipedia article dedicated to doping at the Tour de France going back to the race’s beginning in 1903 up to the present day. Early riders tied rags soaked in ether around their mouths in order
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to ward off the excruciating pain in their legs. Later, amphetamines kept riders alert and energized for the long stage rides and, in recent years, a variety of drugs that could stock a pharmacy has been used to enhance muscle mass, provoke red blood cell growth, or dull the pain of exertion. According to one Web site, 1976 Tour champion Lucien Van Impe was the first Tour winner in 10 years not considered connected to doping. Winners during that decade of doping include cycling great Eddy Merckx. Since Van Impe, nine Tour winners have either tested positive for drugs or have admitted using drugs. The most recent confessor, American Floyd Landis, was stripped of his 2006 Tour championship and is now facing charges of computer hacking related to his doping. In addition, Landis is now playing the role Jose Canseco played in baseball: a whistleblower previously implicated in the transgressions he’s now accusing others of committing. Not even America’s golden boy of cycling, Lance Armstrong, is immune from suspicion, as seemingly the entire country of France would like to see Armstrong, a seven-time Tour champion, disgraced by drugs. Maybe they were just tired of seeing a “rude American” win their country’s greatest sports competition. Sacre bleu! And in light of the sport’s history of doping, cycling’s governing bodies, the World Anti-Doping Agency, lawmakers, and law enforcement have all tried to stem the tide of drugs in cycling. Riders are drug tested so often, I wonder if they ever need install a toilet in their homes. Just stock up on test tubes. Last week, the accusations of cheating in cycling went far beyond drugs when rumors surfaced that Swiss rider Fabian Cancellara had an electric motor installed in the frame of his bike in order to help him win races. All of this mess got me thinking: If drugs and cheating are so rampant, have such a historical precedence in the Tour and professional cycling in general, why not make everything short of mechanical aid fair game? Steroids, amphetamines, synthetic hormones, blood transfusions, the whole lot. Make it all Volume 2 • Issue 6
legal, but make it supervised. All of these minders and team doctors, instead of sneaking bottles of synthetic testosterone into the systems of riders, should closely supervise the administration of drugs to the riders. Then turn them loose on the French countryside. Speed freaks on speed, raging on steroids across meadows, up le Alpe d’Huez and down Mont Ventoux. Wouldn’t that be exciting? Think of the television ratings.
And, why not? The riders and their corporate minders are apparently going to do it anyway, regardless of the consequences. None of them seem to remember men like Tom Simpson or Knud Enemark Jensen, men who died in the heat of battle due to the effects of doping. Make it all legal. But, should another rider die because of doping, it would one tough lesson for the cycling community to learn.
Brandon Shoumaker is a graduate of McNeese State University and has covered sports for more than seven years for various publications. Coaches Brandon Shoumaker or parents with story tips may contact Brandon at bshoumaker@yahoo.com or send him a message on Twitter (@bshoumaker).
TJN
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By Mary Louise Ruehr
True-Life Adventures for Dad Looking for a book for Dad? Let’s check out some true-life adventures. Death on the Barrens: A True Story of Courage and Tragedy in the Canadian Arctic by George James Grinnell recounts a six-man canoe trip into the remote wilderness of north central Canada in 1955, during which Arthur Moffatt, the leader of the voyage, was tragically killed. Moffatt, 36, was quite a hero to the five younger men who agreed to accompany him. The Barren Grounds of sub-Arctic Canada had been crossed previously
by only two other expeditions. It was dangerous: “On the Barrens, the ground lies frozen year round. There were no trees. If we should break or lose a paddle, there would be no way to replace it.” Grinnell’s account affects the reader on several levels. He details the practical side of the trip, including their food and how it was distributed. He describes the physical exertion of canoeing and portaging; the exhilaration of shooting rapids; the camaraderie of the men; the psychological
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signs of suspicion, paranoia, and even questions of sanity: “I became absolutely certain that I was going to die; the expedition seemed to me to be total madness.” There’s also a spiritual element in the way the author looks up to Moffatt: “Like many mystics before him, Art believed that a voyage into the wilderness was a pilgrimage, a journey, not of conquest, but of reconciliation.” Grinnell quotes literature, poetry, scripture, Zen koans and Indian legend. The writing is very nice, and at times even lyrical: “The farther northward we paddled, the more extensive the view became, the more the tundra opened out before us like an endless Alpine meadow surrounded by lakes and snow-topped rocky peaks, and the more I realized that what was unfolding was something beyond physical beauty.” Keep your snowshoes on, because True North: A Journey into the Unexplored Wilderness by Elliott Merrick takes us on a hunting trip in Labrador in the winter of 1930.
Merrick’s writing is full of detail on how to survive in the grueling cold of a Canadian winter. The book is more “Walden” than wild, as the author is often contemplative, reveling in the joy of being out of the city and plunged into nature: “A pipe lit with a brand tastes much better than a pipe lit with a match.” He writes, “What fun it would be to build a cabin on the lake and live here for years. … And in the spring the ducks would come, and in summer the grass and wild bluebells, and our canoe would creep in and out of every bay and cove. … We would not know of wars or increased taxes or inauguration address-
es or who was the world’s heavyweight champion, … and it would be good not to know.” According to Bones of the Tiger: Protecting the Man-Eaters of Nepal, more than a million people have been killed by tigers in southern Asia in the Volume 2 • Issue 6
past 400 years, and someone has to find these killers. Author Hemanta Mishra tells his own story of tracking man-eating tigers, mostly in Nepal’s Chitwan National Park between India and China. As a “professional tiger conservationist,” he tracks tigers to put radio collars on them or to help capture them for removal to zoos. Parts of the book recount the history and culture of tigers and tiger hunting (including color photographs). He talks about why tigers turn on people (“Inability to hunt their natural prey”) and why they are now endangered. His stories of tiger attacks and how the tigers were caught are chilling. In one situation, he was up in a tree with a tranquilizer-dart gun, waiting for a tiger. And there it was, below him: “The tiger suddenly stopped. … Each piece of hair on my body stood upright. Acutely aware of my fear, I froze 16 feet up in my tree. Composing myself, I took a deep breath and squeezed the trigger of my dart gun. Phut, the dart sounded as it hit the right shoulder of the man-eater. … The tiger thundered the grassland with a nerve-wrecking growl. I watched it jump about six feet high over the opening in the grassland and sprint into cover behind my tree.” Now that Elizabeth Gilbert’s name
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is practically a household word because of her best-selling Eat, Pray, Love, her previous work is getting more attention. The Last American Man, which was a National Book Award finalist, is the character portrait
tify trees, set up camp, bait a hook and build a fire. “When he turned 12, he went out into the woods, alone and empty-handed, built himself a shelter, and survived off the land for a week.” At 19, he hiked the entire Appalachian Trail. And through cunning business moves, he bought enough acreage to build a self-sustaining farm where he could live off the land. In many ways, he’s a troubled guy; he just can’t sustain a romantic rela-
of Eustace Conway, a modern-day mythic figure who’s sort of an odd cross between Davy Crockett, Geronimo, and Malcolm Forbes. Born in 1961 in South Carolina, he was taught at an early age how to iden-
tionship, because he’s too demanding. But schoolchildren love to hear him talk about nature, as in his favorite metaphor: “I live in nature, where everything is connected, circular. The seasons are circular. The planet is cir-
cular. … The life cycles of plants and animals are circular. … The ancient people understood that our world is a circle, but … [people today] live in boxes. They wake up every morning in the box of their bedrooms because a box next to them started making beeping noises. … They eat their breakfast out of a box and then they throw that box away into another box. Then they leave the box where they live and get into a box with wheels and drive to work, which is just another big box.” He’s a fascinating guy. If you want to give Dad a gift that will just knock his socks off, look for TIME Great Discoveries: Explorations That Changed History from the publishers of Time magazine. This oversized coffee-table book is filled with 138 pages of spell-binding full-color photographs from around the world: familiar sites like Machu Picchu in Peru, China’s terra-cotta army and Africa’s Victoria Falls, and less familiar images such as the “hobbits” of Indonesia and sand ripples on Mars. There’s just enough text to keep it interesting. No matter how many times I pick up this book, I always get lost in it. Copyright © 2010 by Mary Louise Ruehr.
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der useum n e l l n E dren's M a D By e Chil of th r o t c Dire
Prince of Persia: the Sands of Time (Disney, 2010)
(the adopted prince, played by Jake Gyllenhaal) and his childhood buddies sneak up the walls and steal the show. It turns out that there are no weapons of mass destruction (swords). But there is another powerful weapon, a little dagger that allows time to turn back for whoever holds its secret. It turns out that a beautiful Princess/Priestess guards the mysterious dagger. Gemma Arterton plays the princess, and continually reminds us that just about everyone in this
Middle East movie is British. I figure they used about a thousand gallons of bronzing lotion during filming. She and the Prince dominate the movie with their relationship, an exchange of on-again, off-again trust that includes her attempting to kill him more than once. (For a split-second timing fighter and acrobat, Prince Dastan seems to be a slow learner.) That’s not to say that Prince of Persia is cheesy. Sumptuous is more like it, with lavish sets and great actors. Sir Ben Kingsley plays the prince’s uncle and Alfred Molina is an ostrich-herding desert thug. Yes, he herds ostriches, and with a vengeance. Molina is one of the few actors that could pull this off from underneath a gallon of makeup. At least I’m pretty sure it was him. At any rate, the sands of time-travel aspect makes the movie interesting, with enough plot twists to keep things moving, but we’ve seen it all before, somewhere, somehow, everywhere. The sacred dagger ends up being the object that everyone wants, sort of like the heart of Davy Jones from Pirates, or the continuum transfunctioner from Dude Where’s My Car? Given its formulaic nature, you may be tempted to write Prince of Persia off as another summer special
effects department stimulus plan, which it is. But Ben Kingsley can get more acting out of two words than most performers can do in a whole movie. And Jake Gyllenhaal, as Prince Dastan, is pretty entertaining when running across buildings and dodging arrows from the evil Taussassins, a sort of desert Ninja sect that is really nasty. With the action packed in tighter than a basket of sabers, there’s not much time for humor, which makes things a little tiring. But I liked the way the directors kept the violence un-bloody and the romance untrashy. And there really aren’t any creepy scenes, unless you just don’t like big snakes that jump and bite. Prince of Persia reminds us that movies aren’t real; and at their best, don’t have to be. Rated PG-13, because younger kids will be likely be bored or scared to death. (They might like the video game, though.) Take it on these terms, and you’ll have a wonderful time. The story is entertaining, the acting is passable, and the action is non-bloody and non-stop. And it made me forget the Gulf oil spill for a blessed two hours.
TJN
This summer, everyone needs to escape the worries of the world for a while. Well, grab your seat and hold onto your popcorn. Prince of Persia is the newest fantasy movie by Jerry Bruckheimer. In the tradition of Pirates of the Caribbean, enjoy two hours of swashbuckling swordplay, special effects, and just enough romance to move the story along. The plot: A young peasant orphan exhibits bravery and happens to be able to climb walls and run across rooftops better than Spiderman. The lad is adopted by the King of Persia, who already has two older sons. Fast-forward 20 years. The eldest brother is planning an assault on Alamut, a holy city suspected of harboring and selling weapons of mass destruction (swords). We’re dropped right in the middle of the Persians attacking the city, in which our hero, Dastan Volume 2 • Issue 6
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MSU Fall Registration Deadline Set July 1 is the deadline to apply for admission to McNeese State University for regular fall registration. Registration for the fall semester is currently underway through 11:59 p.m. July 9. The fall class schedule is available online at www.mcneese.edu/schedule. All students should see an adviser, if required, to get their alternate PINS prior to registration. Classes begin Aug. 23. Students can go to the McNeese Web site
and click on Banner Self-Service to begin the registration process. Students can also go online at www.mcneese.edu/payment to see the payment policy on credit card payments and online payment changes. For more payment information, contact the McNeese Accounting Office at (337) 4755107. For more information, contact the registrar’s office at (337) 475-5356 or (800) 622-3352, ext. 5356. TJN
Killin’ Time Crossword
Crossword puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.com (www.bestcrosswords.com). Used with permission. PAGE 40
JUNE 17, 2010
Volume 2 • Issue 6
AMERICAN WIND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA This seafaring young orchestra dropped anchor at the Civic Center sea wall recently. Founded 50 years ago by the American conductor Robert Boudreau, he conducts an orchestra of student musicians who perform on an amazing barge, Point Counterpoint II, filled with art from all over the world. Dedicated to contemporary classical music, the group performs free concerts during the summer months, traveling from port to port, raising funds from corporations and other benefactors. This evening, guests were treated to a special VIP concert, art gallery tour and reception. Amazing entertainment in the most unique venue!
Luvertha August and Lutricia Cobb
Adrian Wallace and Mary Richardson
Heather and John Ieyoub
Karen Harrell and Paula Myers
Katie Wrobel and Tiffany Valvo
Jason Barnes and Brenda Bachrach
Preston Gray, Paul Maddox, Vicki Sensat and Tracy Mclemore
27TH ANNUAL CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK TELETHON One Miracle at a Time! Local volunteers joined together at McNeese to show their love and support for one of the world’s leading children’s charities, the Children’s Miracle Network Telethon, which was broadcast by KPLC. It was a chance to tell stories about the everyday miracles taking place at CHRISTUS St. Pat’s, our local Miracle Network hospital, and give thanks for the individual and corporate donations generously given during the telethon. The funds raised stay local and are given to St. Pat’s. Take a bow Anna Viator, Poddy Champeaux and all of the fabulous people who worked so hard to make this year’s event so fantastic! Ooops, You Did it Again! Mary Grace Leger, Trinity and John Foret and Emilee Papadimitriou Volume 2 • Issue 6
Poddy Champeaux and Anna Catherine Viator JUNE 17, 2010
PAGE 41
Karen and Ryon Stubblefield
Zelma and CJ Spell
Dr. Keith DeSonier and Allen Abshire
SWLA OLD TIMER BOXERS REUNION It was a left jab, straight right, left hook and down for the count kind of reunion as more than 300 Louisiana high school boxers from 1931-1958 gathered at the Burton Coliseum. There was a non-stop combination of ole time boxers’ handshakes, hugs, “remember when?” and laughter, which was hard to break from with the exception of eating some of that delicious gumbo, fried fish and barbeque…tres bon! Mayor Randy Roach and former LSU quarterback Jamie Bice acknowledged the importance the sport of boxing played back then--and now. There were prize drawings and some ole time boxers showing they still had it in the ring--making it hard for Gumbo Gator to watch. Ring the bell! By majority decision, this event was an overall “knockout!” Karen and Ned Boudreaux
Joe Broussard and Ornie Hebert
SONYA BROOKS SPEECH –LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
With over 13 years experience in the field of speech pathology, Sonya is an expert in the areas of swallowing, communication, and voice disorders. Some of the disorders she treats are listed below. To find out if she can help your loved one, please call our clinic at (337)478-5880.
Pediatrics Cerebral Palsy Autism Traumatic Brain Injury Stuttering Speech and Swallowing for Cleft Palate Speech and Language Delay
Adults/Geriatrics Speech and Swallowing Recovery following Stroke Speech Retraining following Laryngectomy Recovery from Traumatic Brain Injury Voice Disorder/Professional Voice Training Speech and Swallowing Programs for Parkinsons Disease Communication Device selection for Degenerative Diseases
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JUNE 17, 2010
Volume 2 • Issue 6
Charles Moore and Lloyd Armentor
Sammy Monticello, Sonny Brunson, Billy Miller, Leland Fontenot and Poochie East
Harold Williams and Gilbert Higginbotham
Ronald Guidry and Remy Hargrave
Oran Suire and Carl Ardoin
David Papania and Zack O’Quinn
GUEST TEACHERS Richard Steinert • Libby Lovejoy Kisler Whitworth • Colleen LeBleu Mary Jo Misra • Ginger Gondron
Contact Lady Holly at 304-5445 for more information. Supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council as administered by The Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana. Volume 2 • Issue 6
JUNE 17, 2010
PAGE 43
LOUISIANA SWASHBUCKLERS VS. COLUMBUS LIONS These (5-1) roaring Lions went back to Columbus with their tails tucked as the (4-4) Louisiana Swashbucklers defeated them 51-31. They were in for an unexpected surprise from an unexpected rushing offense and a great game plan as the Bucs plowed down the Lions, rushing drive after drive until the final victory was won! Spectators were fired up and roaring for their hometown team. Plenty of good food, drinks and souvenirs kept everyone happy. Way to go, Bucs--keep on keeping on! Mathew, Marcus, Lamarc and Sonja Thierry
Carmelite Butler and Steaphana Harrison
Amanda Dore and Jennifer Young
Lacy Corne and Madi Lahaussee
Sean (Lump) Simpson and Freddy Talbert
art g at He n u o Y The ual an ann n is o p x o E ocusing event f e, education, ies, ar s, activit r healthc d useful e k a e ard an s st sp leisure ion for senior l also be gue ll geared tow il al sa at inform ivers. There w presentation he free medic g t d e f r o and ca ment and fo advantage o . ch e in enterta lifestyles. Tak y our free lun 1 g jo 7-755 3 4 changin s and also en ) 7 g (33 th. screenin o PLC at
a bo ct K Conta to reserve Sponsored by
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JUNE 17, 2010
Volume 2 • Issue 6
SUMMER READING PROGRAM No clowning around, this Summer Reading Program Kick-off was a sky-high success! Kids, kids and more kids showed up at Prien Lake Park and got right into all of the fun activities such as learning to juggle and decorating cookies (and then eating them!). A dress-up booth was provided for all of the little fashion divas, there was balloon art by the talented clowns, magic, outdoor activities, and plenty more! The parents had just as much fun as the kids—although it was the kids who signed up for the summer reading program at the Calcasieu Parish Public Library. Happy reading to all! TJN Doug Nevils, Karla Tullos, James Dickerson and Doug Myers
Avery, Gerry and Liam Wubben
Erin Casteel and Danielle Wise
Jayme Champagne and Melanie Pesson
Sophia, Michael and Nichole Lanthier
715 Kirby St. Lake Charles, LA 70601 Office 337-436-7800 Fax 337-990-0262
$10 Haircuts & $10 Style with Knowledge Poker Run Registration 8am (Lake Charles Harley Davidson) There will be live music, a water slide, rock wall and refreshments! All proceeds will benefit local charities.
LIVE PERFORMANCES Noon 1:15pm 2:30pm 3:45pm 5:00pm
Volume 2 • Issue 6
Journey’s End Band The Sinners The Von Dukes The Down Hearted The Loaded 44rz
If you’re an elementary student, send us a copy of your last report card and contact information. Winners will be chosen each issue for perfect attendance, outstanding grades, and in a drawing for all submissions!
JUNE 17, 2010
PAGE 45
ALL PARTY PLANS INCLUDE: • • • • •
Meet Maddy
Admission for 20 children Adults & kids under 1 are FREE No mess at your home Activities for all ages No rain-outs
MADDY is an 8-month old Jack Russell who is full of love and fun! She’s a happy girl who would love a family with kids or another playful pup! She gives kisses and cuddles and would prefer a secure fenced yard where she can play and entertain you. Her foster mom says she is potty-trained and well behaved in the house. For more info on this happygo-lucky girl, contact her foster mom at denys2074@yahoo.com or (337) 526-7610. An application can be printed out online at www.4PawsSocietyInc.com and faxed to (337) 558-6331. You can also reach us via e-mail at fourpawssociety@aol.com. A vet reference and home visits are included with each adoption process. CALL FOR PRICES!
TJN
Call our Sales Staff at (337) 436-7800 Katy Corbello Ext. 101
Karla Tullos Ext. 112
katy@thejambalayanews.com
karla@thejambalayanews.com
Faye Drake Ext. 111
Jody Barrilleaux Ext. 113
faye@thejambalayanews.com
jody@thejambalayanews.com
Todd Elliott Ext. 108 todd@thejambalayanews.com PAGE 46
JUNE 17, 2010
Volume 2 • Issue 6
Cotton Candy Curls
THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS JUNE 12-27 Dust off your cowboy boots and head down to ACTS Theatre to see the high-energy musical comedy, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas! This exuberant and bawdy musical comedy recounts a real-life story of smalltown vice, statewide political sidestepping, and that great American pastime—sex. Tickets are $30 each for general admission and $15 with student ID. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. (3 p.m. on Sun.) at ACTS Theatre, One Reid St. in Lake Charles. For more information and specific performance dates, call (337) 433-ACTS or e-mail mail@actstheatre.com. WENDY COLONNA ALBUM RELEASE PARTY JUNE 18 Lake Charles native Wendy Colonna will release her new album at Luna on June 18 at 9:30 p.m. We are One, produced by acclaimed musician and producer Papa Mali, is a funky and soulful harnessing of Colonna’s American Southern roots, underlined by impeccable songwriting and sassy delivery. Papa Mali has produced Grammy nominated artists such as Ruthie Foster and is currently touring with 7 Walkers. For mor information, call 494-LUNA or see www.wendycolonna.com.
Volume 2 • Issue 6
ADOPT-A-KID COCOA SOIREE JUNE 18 Southern Touch Entertainment has teamed up with the Adopt-A-Kid Foundation to present the “Cocoa Soiree,” a chocolate-themed cocktail party, which will be held Fri., June 18 at The Gathering Place Event Facility in Lake Charles. Renowned jazz musician Tony Henry of Houston will provide entertainment and there will be a chocolate bar, complete with chocolate desserts and cocktails. Cost is $25 for individuals, $40 for couples and $300 for corporate tables of ten. To RSVP, contact Don Thomas at 309-4720. The Adopt-A-Kid Foundation is a non-profit organization designed to sponsor students ages 12 years of age or younger. Students who qualify receive financial support to cover the costs of school supplies, uniforms, shoes and normal grooming needs. To learn more about Adopt-AKid, visit their Facebook page. To make donations, call 309-4720.
“I WANT CANDY” AND “DETOUR ART” AT 1911 CITY HALL JUNE 18-AUG. 21 The City of Lake Charles will open two new exhibitions entitled “I Want Candy-The Sweet Stuff in America,” and “Detour Art—Outsider, Folk Art, and Visionary Environments Coast to Coast.” The first exhibit gathers 50-55 works from 40 contemporary artists that explore our nation’s love affair with sweets and reflect some of the most important artistic trajectories of recent American art. The second exhibit highlights art and images by visionaries, untrained artists, and folk creators found along the back roads of America. Kelly Ludwig, author and curator of “Detour Art” will be on hand to meet and share her stories. Opening receptions for both exhibits will take place Fri., June 18 from 6-9 p.m. at the 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center at 1001 Ryan Street. The exhibit will hang through Aug. 21. Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center is open Mon. through Fri., 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. MCNEESE THEATRE PRESENTS A LESSON BEFORE DYING JUNE 18-20 McNeese Theatre Summer Bayou Players will stage A Lesson Before Dying, opening June 18 with a special production on June 19 commemorating Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in 1862. Performances are at 7:30 p.m., June 18 and June 19 with a 2 p.m. matinee
JUNE 17, 2010
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June 20. Performances will be held in Ralph Squires Hall, Shearman Fine Arts Building. This is an engrossing, moving play about the devastation of segregation in the 1940s. An innocent young man has been condemned to death in Louisiana. His godmother asks a schoolteacher to teach him how to die like a man. On his execution day, the teacher discovers that he faces the young man’s fate—and his own destiny. Tickets at the door are $10 for adults, and $5 for McNeese faculty/staff, senior citizens and high school students. No reservations are required. For information, call 475-5042. YMBC FISHING TOURNAMENT JUNE 19 On Sat., June 19, the Young Men’s Business Club of Lake Charles will be hosting their 8th annual fishing tournament benefiting Special Olympics of SWLA. Checkpoint and weight-in will be held at Calcasieu Point Landing. The three categories are speck, redfish (16”-27”), and flounder. One fish is allowed per category per entrant. Registration is $25
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JUNE 17, 2010
per person. Entrants will be required to keep and present a portion of the sign up form when weighing in. All money raised stays here in SWLA to help the over 600 Special Olympic athletes to train and compete. These funds help to send athletes from Southwest Louisiana to Special Olympic events all over the country. Pick up your entry forms at The Tackle Box, Lake Charles Tackle, Calcasieu Point, Signs Now, or Ship to Shore. Call Scott Bowers at (337) 274-9793 for more information. THE PBR AT BURTON COLISEUM JUNE 25-26 The Professional Bull Riders are bucking into Burton Coliseum on June 25-26.The Mike White Invitational Bull Riding will showcase some of the rising stars of the PBR as the competitors face-off against the most famous animal athletes in the business. A highlight will be the match rides between World Champions Mike White and Chris Shivers. For more information, go to www.mikewhitepbr.com. Tickets can be purchased online and at Patton’s (4785900), Cotten’s (436-5131) and Meaux’s (477-7901) all in Lake Charles, and Ranch Outlet [(337)-234-5015] in Lafayette. Tickets will go on sale at Burton Coliseum on June 25 at noon. Prices are $30, $20, $15, $12 and $8 (no $8 tickets on Sat.) Children ages
Volume 2 • Issue 6
4-12 get a $3 discount on $20, $15, and $12 tickets; children 3 years and under get in free. LAST SWASHBUCKLERS GAME JUNE 26 Come to the Smugglers’ Den for the last Swashbucklers game of the season! On Sat., June 26 at 7 p.m., the Swashbucklers will take on the Lafayette Wildcatters at the Lake Charles Civic Center in what promises to be an exciting season finale. Ticket prices include Grid Iron seats (front row): $70; Elite seats (100 deck): $30; Captain’s seats (200 deck): $22; Salty’s seats (300 deck): $16; and End zone seats (300 deck): $12. A $1.50 facility fee is charged by the Lake Charles Civic Center. There are no fees for parking. For more information, call 491-1256 or go to www.lakecharlesciviccenter.com. MARDI GRAS RETURNS TO SIOUX CITY JULY 1 The annual Krewe de Charlie Sioux Mardi Gras Festival will be held on Thurs., July 1, at the Orpheum Theater, 520 Pierce Street, in downtown Sioux City, Iowa. This year’s theme is “Party Like a Rock Star,” and the event will once again feature lavish costumes constructed for the Krewe de Charlie Sioux by members from Lake Charles (Sioux City’s Sister City for over a decade). Authentic Cajun food will be served under a large tent on Pierce Street. Doors to the Orpheum Theatre open at 6 p.m.; the gala performance starts at 7:30 p.m. Free tickets to the costume gala are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Tyson Event Center box office. Reserved sponsorship tickets are also available, starting at $15 for main floor seating. Tickets for the Cajun buffet are $10 and are available at the Tyson Events Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, at www.Ticketmaster.com, or by calling (800) 745-3000. BLUE RIBBON APPLE PIE CONTEST JULY 3 All bakers are invited to participate in the fourth annual Blue Ribbon Apple Pie Contest, held in conjunction with the Red White Blue & You Fourth of July Festival in downtown Lake Charles. Bring your baked pie to the Lake Charles/SWLA Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Welcome Center located at 1205 N. Lakeshore Drive in Lake Charles on Sat., July 3 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Judging will take place later that afternoon. Winners will be notified by phone. Pies must include at least 60 percent apples in the filling. Entries that require refrigeration will not be accepted due to food safety reasons. A recipe must be submitted with the entry form. First place will receive a blue ribbon and $100, second place will be awarded a red ribbon and $75, and the third place winner will receive a white ribbon and $50. There is no entry fee. Call (337) 436-9588 for an entry form, or download it at www.visitlakecharles.org/applepie. TJN
Volume 2 • Issue 6
JUNE 17, 2010
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JUNE 17, 2010
Volume 2 • Issue 6
To list your event e-mail: lauren@thejambalayanews.com
The
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16 • Alvin Touchet @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. • Paul Gonsoulin @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • DJ Dispo @ My Place Bar, 9 p.m. THURSDAY, JUNE 17 • Homer LeJeune & The Kajun Kings @ DI’s Cajun • • • • • •
Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. The Molly Ringwalds @ Party by the Pool, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 7 p.m. Brent Rodgers/Ronnie Fruge @ The Porch, 8 p.m. Blues Tonic @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. Ka-Nection @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. Jaryd Lane @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. HipBootJoe @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m.
FRIDAY, JUNE 18
• Kadillacs @ Caribbean
Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. • No Idea @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • Butt Roxx @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m. • After 8 @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m. SATURDAY, JUNE 19 • Brent Rodgers @ The Porch, 9:30 a.m. • Al Roger & Louisiana Pride @ DI’s Cajun Food &
Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Ron Miller & The Midnight Ramblers @ Aucoin’s • • • •
• Joe Simon & Louisiana Cajun @ DI’s Cajun Food
& Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Ron Miller & The Midnight Ramblers @ Aucoin’s
• •
Cajun Restaurant, Hayes, 7 p.m. • Wendy Colonna @ Luna Bar & Grill, 8 p.m. • Trip Wamsley @ The Porch, 8 p.m. • Ka-Nection @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs,
• •
Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Wendy Colonna @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.
•
Cajun Restaurant, Hayes, 7 p.m. ThingFish/Looks That Kill @ Nate’s Place, 8 p.m. Brian Pounds @ The Porch, 8 p.m. Mel Waiters/Denise LaSalle @ Delta Event Center, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. Ka-Nection @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. Brothers and Kings @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. No Idea @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. Keith McCoy & CEO @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. After 8 @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m. Club 921 @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.
SUNDAY, JUNE 20 • Justin Pierce Quartet @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of
Capri Casino, Westlake, 10 a.m. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23 • Alvin Touchet @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. • DJ Dispo @ My Place Bar, 9 p.m.
THURSDAY, JUNE 24 • Briggs Brown & The Bayou Cajuns @ DI’s Cajun
Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Velcro Pygmies @ Party by the Pool, L’Auberge
du Lac Casino, 7 p.m. • Twangsters Union @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of
Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Derryl Perry @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs,
Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Corey Ledet & His Zydeco Band @ Mikko,
Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. FRIDAY, JUNE 25 • Lesa Cormier & The Sundown Playboys @ DI’s
Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • In Business @ The Porch, 7 p.m. • Joe Simon & The Louisiana Cajuns @ Aucoin’s
Cajun Restaurant, Hayes, 7 p.m. • Derryl Perry @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs,
Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Dog Hill Stompers @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. • ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • X-It 43 @ Club 1Sixty5, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.
Volume 2 • Issue 6
JUNE 17, 2010
PAGE 51
• Wayne Mouille/Furr @ OB’s Bar &
Grill, 9:30 p.m.
• Chris Shearman @ Luna Bar &
• The Commodores @ Isle of Capri
Grill, 9 p.m. • DJ Dispo @ My Place Bar, 9 p.m.
• TBA @ Aucoin’s Cajun Restaurant,
SATURDAY, JUNE 26 • Brent Rodgers @ The Porch,
9:30 a.m. • Scotty Pousson & The Pointe aux
•
• • • • • • •
MONDAY NIGHTS: Abita Beer Night
WEDNESDAY NIGHTS: Mondo Martini Night
THURSDAY NIGHTS: Be Well Night
Loups Playboys @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. Joe Simon & The Louisiana Cajuns @ Aucoin’s Cajun Restaurant, Hayes, 7 p.m. Derryl Perry @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. The Wild Bills/TBA @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. Southwinds @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. X-It 43 @ Club 1Sixty5, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. Club 921 @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m. Chris Shearman @ The Porch, TBD
Casino, Westlake, 7 p.m. Hayes, 7 p.m.
THURSDAY, JULY 1 • TBA@ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Cowboy Mouth @ Party by the Pool, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 7 p.m. • Peter Lawson/Lobelia @ The Porch, 9 p.m. • When the Word Was Sound @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • Crossroads Band @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.
• Forever Falls/Certain Satellites @
Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • Some Assembly Required @ Mikko,
Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • Bernie Alan @ Club 1Sixty5,
Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • Club 921 @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7 • Alvin Touchet @ OB’s Bar &
Grill, 7 p.m. • Legends in Concert @ Mikko,
FRIDAY, JULY 2 • TBA@ DI’s Cajun Food & Music,
Basile, 6:30 p.m. • TBA @ Aucoin’s Cajun Restaurant,
Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7:30 p.m. • Radar vs. Wolf @ Luna Bar &
Grill, 9 p.m.
TJN
Hayes, 7 p.m. • Jeff Foxworthy @ Coushatta
Casino Pavillion, Kinder, 8 p.m. • Blues Tonic @ Caribbean Cove, Isle
of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. SUNDAY, JUNE 27 • Jay Ecker Trio @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 10 a.m.
• Some Assembly Required @ Mikko,
Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • Bernie Alan @ Club 1Sixty5,
Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 30 • Alvin Touchet @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m.
SATURDAY, JULY 3 • TBA@ DI’s Cajun Food & Music,
Basile, 6:30 p.m. 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. Fri. Jun. 18 @ 8:00 WENDY COLONNA Sat. Jun. 19 @ 9:00 BROTHERS AND KINGS Sat. Jun. 26 @ 9:00 THE WILD BILLS & MORE Wed. July 7 @ 9:00 RADAR VS. WOLF Sat. Jul. 17 2010 9:00 FLATLAND TRAVELER
PAGE 52
JUNE 17, 2010
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 Dale Bernard State Farm Insurance. 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 2 • Issue 6
Leslie B e four dec rman’s career in ades, an music folksing er, mus d includes stin spans ic teach ts as a booker, e festival concert prom r, coffeehouse o album director, mus ter, publicist, notes w ic trade riter, ar journalist, t entertain organization ist manager, ment at presiden torney, of the M t, and u Louisian sic Museum o president f musicall a. She prefers Southwest y eclectic a GRAM , and v ll things M Recordin Ys as a mem otes on the g Aca ber o reached at leslie@ demy. She c f the an leslieber man.co be m.
So, sitrade. does a mu ow to e h r e n ) r s terwh to lea a New er the test al out of o y h g a g l i n r ? a a b b d v ci o n st and whate a crow n. tists g he Jam work t of our be l music ar igs and the th ing T info about laying whe d u l c s a n g p i o n h ( w i t ’s y w i M es i fe r ig press listings w bout who s is usuall ts, and o t to play a e on to citi c e n a v d i s e t r n v a m v o si n l ba tended e offe end the ey mo al mu Oh, n t lo ca s t town. rn. No. Th and origin ician is, the ht clubs news abou t of well-a through But er the fac rs down d photos - to retu lternative tter a mus ve town rig e a ra aft an nd filte bigge . And the b at s/he’ll le g. heard the gossip itter posts, the scene-a h n s i t e scen ikely it is cal follow Wendy tor, when ok and Tw appear in apers. And s l h o t l s e e o i uc p r e c b a Face rief taglin our local e same fa for mo building appened w yoga instr h f r s b d h t o e e f n t t h af ns stly wit ienc r. wha me o iter a colum e aud a it’s mo That’s , singer/wr Austin, ho music heard ticed that at are in th town to he ita o S t st n X W o Colon oved away , and the S re it’s almo I’ve n fter time th get around t of the lim sic e c the who m Foods, UT ganza; wh without l time a at music I te side effe riginal mu a n l e about in e o s a r g s d g n t n s n i u e i Whol edia extrav k downtow sicians at a th fort rnative a play, art s g th sic scene n n i l u t l u E a m n e i e e o o u On and sible to w nch of m longside for alt w places t ith audienc ely disapp original m lace in too ut t u t e s A l s b o t . o t a p u e t h f ’s g im ed o with so The m native and t it takes p know abo g into time w absolu s l nd ni , there r hat much face , which is w else wil umpin f the day a New York the street le ha e i t t t b p l d s o e a i n r e i e a p f s o o s o t r o t d y u liv e H w e e r s n l s y e . g e g r r m t a f d i v al oo ien hou ashville, Cha don’t up of stran tic growth and com very, usical Lake nues, and t mily and fr e out to loc ed ,N ble m has been e tis ain y a r t s d a r a p y a l L e z e a a r t a i f v m m o n w p n n sti ta few sure, the bands co ell-orga k to e he al sary f almos tin, and Au olonna. en in Lake ly w neces rmer learn ience, if s/ is never it. Oh artists and y happen, on Faceboo s r C u d o f of A o Wendy that I’ve be ack regula l a per with an au choir, and ifferent or t vidua herever the do e-blasts n mailing e b s e r e d d e o a h t t o n t e m i o h nica aches to r g Over the y nna has co e is willing e ed to aces? gigs w musicians or their ow lists, and t expos n hostile f e in a cove pre n o l o o e d I’v C m , eve , if you’r ads of ic, an she’s rles erever so s a u h m C Sure ’ve got lo blic ustic y wh never to pla ase live aco terial whe , with the you , both pu , d n a c a y b show her new m me around fth record on to pla nd you can s e i c i y a l t p n ,a heard d it. This t One, her f elease part rivate ainme e r e s r n a a a e A and p our entert ed in t l re red a on Ry y of We e lease ill be featu ., at Luna’s rnest and gauge s by the sp hits the e r w s ea ce .m h r prowe the audien ou’re in an (whic 8, at 9:30 p more than hungry fo y f d 1 e h i n c e n t u i m u I n o u . fo B wh de Ju ,y floor. at ma ), I’ve tening group Street nt songs th ur after lis tion surdance tive music dancers e, o s a to pleasa usic an h ali’s produc th an altern ot appeal ng, of cour m n i e M ’s r t k t i a to. o p up wi m migh (I’m thin natives – ith Pa na’s come le to dance s w y , r r t a e c o t i w l a b n f any inds of a re dance lay t be a borne , Colo p a k prises I just migh Mali” Wel nk guitar of all s that a squ expects to g d fu r in bum Papa u obvio dance calle you’re play ttract al Malcolm “ ed blues an s of s r a f a and th yea tin-ba contr cing, and i inevitably s who n Aus s player wi sic gigging he’s n ll r ’ a a e u c d o n r y a o u s , f d d a aist music and b ana roots m his belt, an n e step i Celtic f those cut from the w ensely o r s i t e c u d e o n f L t g o ef gu d n o i “love, c o u a few heir movin ands hang ths g o prod is ears to e songs f ey’re u h t o l r l i m a e v h do tra e th nd their used h na’s reflecti ence,” as t oncen , whil a d n n o e down heir sides, imace of c l c o s n C r t lful nd tra along perpetual g of sou ’re loss a scribed. u x i o y m a t ’s y e wha rmance wear self-d g an earth , the album ifo ing on Usin country iliar terr tion). ct, depend g, arty per oody balnd am In fa oncertizin -fusion, m nce to lues a uts chart f res. I don’t b e z c i z e d c – a u g j u s n g a a a t o e n s e i z p art an e m do do new m woman ap dd-te y not want o taking th e n o i , f y f r r u e a to th st .S anoth you m is not ncing know lads – t you by da nce palace ctice your a c a distra at a local d place to pr
nna o l o C y Wend Release d Recor races Our e G Party usic Scen M Local
Volume 2 • Issue 6
JUNE 17, 2010
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PRESENT
2010 SWLA LEGISLATIVE WRAP UP Friday, June 25 11:30am Networking, 12pm Lunch and Program Reeves Uptown Catering • 1639 Ryan St., Lake Charles
Hear All About It! Come hear what our SWLA Delegation has to say about the 2010 Legislative Session. $20 for LWV / Chamber Members $25 for Non-members RSVP by Wednesday, June 22 email info@lwv-lc.org or call 337-474-1864
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JUNE 17, 2010
from Bonnie Raitt who would have had the balls to cover Robert Johnson’s “If I Had Possession Over Judgment Day,” which Colonna does to a slide guitar and cymbal-heavy rhythmic roll that adds just enough electronic overtone to heavy-up the straightforward vocal arrangement. And there’s a smoky barroom sound that reminds me of Betty Boop’s slinky “St. James Infirmary Blues” on “Hurricane,” with its honky tonk piano and horn solos and throwback to the 40s vocals. Colonna’s recently been named best singer/songwriter by the Austin AmericanStatesman, and this time around, I’m going to agree with them, and go a step further. She’s the best singer songwriter to come out of Lake Charles, Louisiana, anytime in recent memory. Get down to Luna to hear her on the 18th and get yourself an earful of and a hand full of We Are One. More Wendy Colonna info on her Web site at www.wendycolonna.com.
CURFEW PROBLEMS Oh, and just a postscript on the live music downtown curfew problems of recent months: Complications arising from misreading the ordinance by both club owners and members of our fine constabulary caused some consternation and too-early shutdowns of live music in various indoor venues. A few concerned musicians and their supporters braved City Hall with a petition a few weeks back asking for repeal of the noise ordinance in question, and since then, some of the misconstruction has been cleared away. More official corrections are promised soon. So go out, hear live music, patronize the clubs that offer it, drink their beer, eat their meals and snacks, and don’t forget to tip your waitpersons. And show the City parents that live music venues and performers have the support of many voting and tax-paying citizens.
TJN
Volume 2 • Issue 6
Volume 2 • Issue 6
JUNE 17, 2010
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