VOL. 2, NO. 20 /JANUARY 13, 2011
ALSO:
Mardi Gras Overview • Green Resolutions for the New Year Dr. Michelle Swift, DDS: A New Reason to Smile
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JANUARY 13, 2011
Volume 2 • Issue 20
GENERAL 715 Kirby St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 www.thejambalayanews.com PUBLISHER Phil de Albuquerque
contents
lauren@thejambalayanews.com
CONTRIBUTORS Leslie Berman George Cline Angie Kay Dilmore James Doyle Dan Ellender Maria Alcantara Faul Mike McHugh Penny Miller Mary Louise Ruehr Brandon Shoumaker Karla Tullos ADVERTISING sales@thejambalayanews.com
SALES ASSOCIATES Katy Corbello Faye Drake Karla Tullos GRAPHICS ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Darrell Buck ART/PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Michelle LaVoie
January 13, 2011 • Volume 2 • Issue 20
COVER STORY 26
publisher@thejambalayanews.com
NEWS EXECUTIVE EDITOR Lauren de Albuquerque
On Cover: Brenda and Brian Vallier. Photo by Michelle LaVoie
Jazzercise/Vallier at Home: His and Her Businesses Bring the Family Together
REGULARS 7 9 10 11 12 16 30
The Boiling Pot Adoption Corner The Dang Yankee Tips from Tip Doyle’s Place A Greener World Sports Report
FEATURES 5 15 19
Foster Grandparents Program Needs Help Bayou Biz: Dr. Michelle Swift, DDS Mardi Gras Overview
26 19
ENTERTAINMENT 31 32 34 35 36 39 41 42
Family Night at the Movies Red Hot Books Funbolaya Killin’ Time Crossword Society Spice Jambalaya Jam Eclectic Company Local Jam
BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kay Andrews
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Legal Disclaimer The views expressed by The Jambalaya News columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Jambalaya News, its editors or staff. The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by The Jambalaya News, LLC, 715 Kirby Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone (337) 436-7800. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The Jambalaya News cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a selfaddressed envelope. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Copyright 2011 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited. Volume 2 • Issue 20
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We are now accepting credit cards! JANUARY 13, 2011
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A Note From Lauren Remembering Elvis Seventy-six years ago today, Elvis Presley was born. My mother said that when she was in the hospital having me, Elvis Presley had just come out with his first album, and her nurse was “crazy” about him. “She had this big crush on this new singer, Elvis. She couldn’t stop talking about him,” she remembered. “Don’t be Cruel” and “Hound Dog” were his first two big hits that summer, and from then on, his music became a part of American culture. I grew up with Elvis Presley. From the time I was very little, my cousin Karen, who is six years my senior, would take me to the movies with her friends (which was really nice of her, bringing a little kid along on). She’d be especially excited if it was an Elvis film. One of the first ones I ever saw was Girls, Girls, Girls with Stella Stevens. Even though it sounds like a porn movie, it’s all about this poor fisherman (Elvis) in Hawaii, who wants to buy a boat and is torn between a nice girl and a nightclub singer. In all of Elvis’ movies, there was romance, singing, a fight or two with some bad guys, and a happy ending. It
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took you away from reality for a few hours, and it made you happy. Simple stuff. Of course, we lived in simpler times. The young Elvis was spectacularly handsome, with his slick black hair, piercing blue eyes, tanned skin and swiveling hips. Karen and her friends would sigh and giggle over him. I was in awe of the fancy cars, the beautiful clothes, the big homes. Even if Elvis played a poor guy, he would somehow hook up with wealthy people, whether it was a boss or a girlfriend. Elvis had it made. Of course, we found out years later that Elvis abused drugs, was paranoid, stayed up all night and slept all day. He surrounded himself with yes-men who catered to his every whim, shut himself off from the world, drove his wife into the arms of another man, and died too young, a bloated shell of his former charismatic self. So much for having it made.
It’s an old, sad story that’s repeated, time and again. The mighty, especially in Hollywood, fall hard. But the great thing is that all the good stuff—his music and style—is forever preserved for all of us to enjoy and remember. He wasn’t called the King of Rock and Roll for nothing, so let’s remember that. A visit to Graceland was on my mother’s bucket list, but unfortunately, we never made it there together. I think she wanted to go there to recapture that sweet time when her only child was born, when Elvis was playing on the radio at the little community hospital where she spent a week recuperating—a week, ladies and gentlemen, that cost $150 back in 1956. I still have the receipt. I’ll make sure I go one day. She’d like that. Hail to the King.
– Lauren de Albuquerque TJN
Volume 2 • Issue 20
Dorothy Lantz reads to her students.
By Angie Kay Dilmore
Volume 2 • Issue 20
Dorothy Lantz, 80, sits in a classroom at F. K. White Middle School with three eighth-graders and helps them with their class work. Ms. Dot, as her students call her, volunteers as a Foster Grandparent. Lantz loves helping the children. “It’s so rewarding,” she said. The Foster Grandparent Program has served Southwest Louisiana children and seniors for the past 11 years. But recent state budget cuts have forced the program to operate with a $15,000 deficit. “We need money,” said Kathy Richard, program director. Her volunteers used to get free lunches at the schools, but the school district has also made cuts. Now Richard pays for
meals out of her own diminished budget. “These seniors deserve a free meal for their time. Many of them count on that lunch,” she said. The program’s advisory board hopes the community will recognize the importance of this program and help financially. They are encouraging area businesses and individuals to either make a one-time donation or pledge a certain dollar amount each month. Even a pledge of $5 a month would help provide the volunteer with a daily free lunch. The Foster Grandparent Program started in Lake Charles in 1999. “I was the first to sign up,” said Lantz. The local program is part of a nationwide
JANUARY 13, 2011
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operation under the umbrella of Senior Corps. Sargent Shriver began the Foster Grandparent Program in 1965, as a way for seniors to help special needs children Richard works with schools in Calcasieu and Jeff Davis Parishes, placing volunteers in classrooms with children with special needs. These needs include children with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, autism, ADHD/ADD, or children at risk due to difficult home situations. Foster Grandparents work primarily in elementary schools, especially with the younger grades, but also in daycares,
pre-schools, and middle schools. Richard currently directs 75 volunteers working at 23 different sites. One of Richard’s greatest challenges is educating the public on exactly what Foster Grandparents do. Because of the name, there are misconceptions. “A lot of people think that being a Foster Grandparent is like being a foster parent, having children in their home. I have trouble getting people to understand this program when I’m trying to recruit more volunteers,” she said. Foster Grandparents work solely in the schools and always with a teacher present.
Vivian Small, 77, has volunteered with Foster Grandparents for ten years in kindergarten classes at Fairview Elementary and now at St. John Elementary. “I help them read, with their numbers, the alphabet, write their names. I care about what they’re learning,” she said. Volunteers often see themselves as a liaison between the students and teachers. The students learn to trust the Foster Grandparent and often share concerns that they wouldn’t be comfortable telling the teacher. Volunteers must be age 55 or older and meet certain low-income criteria.
They commit to 20 hours of service a week and are paid a small stipend plus mileage for travel. In addition to the initial 20-hour orientation, Richard teaches a monthly required in-service for continuing education. The volunteers take pride in knowing they’re making a positive impact in the lives of children. “I help them with their studying, their lessons, and I listen to their problems,” said Lantz. She recently saw a former student who immediately recognized her. The student told Lantz, “If not for your encouragement, I wouldn’t be where I am today.” Lantz said that it made her day. Richard said that Foster Grandparents benefit the community by giving these children an extra advantage they might not otherwise receive. “Our children have lost something. Many kids live in difficult family situations,” she explained. “There may not be someone at home to make sure homework gets done. Kids with learning disabilities often struggle in the classroom. Teachers don’t always have the resources to provide one-on-one time with students who may need it. Foster Grandparents help fill that void.” The program can increase a child’s self-esteem and self-confidence since volunteers give continuous praise— never criticizing. Each Grandparent is assigned to three students per classroom, but the volunteer may help anyone in the class. The 75 volunteers may directly or indirectly help up to 1,000 area children. The program benefits the volunteers as well. Lantz entered the program after her husband died, easing the pain of that empty place. “It gives me something to look forward to every morning,” she said. Despite the many benefits the program offers to the community, it struggles financially since the state cut it from the budget last year. It now relies solely on a federal grant for operations. Richard would like to see the Foster Grandparent program expand so that more local children can reap the benefits of having extra help and care in the classroom. But without additional funding, this is not possible. In the meantime, the volunteers continue their good works. “I enjoy what I’m doing,” said Small. “I feel I have something I can give the children.” How about you? Do you also have something to give, either by volunteering or assisting financially? Please help this vital community program by calling Kathy Richard at (337) 478-5437.
TJN
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Volume 2 • Issue 20
The
Boiling
P l
Please submit press releases to lauren@thejambalayanews.com
ABHISHEK AGARWAL, MD, JOINS FAMILY MEDICINE SPECIALISTS Lake Charles Memorial Hospital welcomes Abhishek Agarwal, MD, a family medicine physician, who recently joined Family Medicine Specialists. He will see patients at their office at 2615 Enterprise Boulevard, Suite B. A native of India, Dr. Agarwal is a graduate of Government Medical College at the University of Kerala, India. Prior to joining Memorial Hospital, Dr. Agarwal served as a medical observer at both the VA Medical Center in Syracuse, New York and New York Presbyterian Hospital. He most recently worked as a resident physician and treated patients at Atlanta Medical Center’s Family Medicine Residency Program. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Family Medicine Specialists at (337) Agarwal, MD 494-4727.
BRADLEY K. FORSYTH, MD, OPENS PRIVATE PRACTICE Bradley K. Forsyth, MD, an obstetrician/gynecologist on staff at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, announces the opening of his own practice in the medical complex at Memorial Hospital for Women, 1890 W. Gauthier Road, Suite 145. Originally from Sulphur, Dr. Forsyth earned his Bachelor of Science degree in clinical laboratory science from Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, where he graduated magna cum laude. He received his medical degree from LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans, and then completed his internship and residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Prior to opening his own practice, Dr. Forsyth saw patients at OBG-1 Clinics in both Lake Charles and Sulphur. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Forsyth, please call (337) 480-5540. Bradley K. Forsyth, MD KNOWLTON JOINS CHAMBER SWLA STAFF Avon Knowlton of Merryville, LA, joined the Chamber SWLA staff recently as its director of membership and investor services. Formerly the executive vice president/director of the Greater Beauregard Chamber of Commerce, Knowlton will broaden the Chamber SWLA’s regional efforts. Knowlton is the 2011 LACCE president, the 2008 Chamber Director of the Year and was named a 2008 “Under 40 and Rising Outstanding Leader” from the defunct Times of Southwest Louisiana. Knowlton will drive membership and investor participation in Chamber SWLA and SWLA Alliance programs, projects and services. Volume 2 • Issue 20
Avon Knowlton
L’AUBERGE NAMES FIVE STAR EMPLOYEES FOR NOVEMBER L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort announced its November Five Star Employees and Employee of the Month: Christina Weishampel, a banquet cook; Leonard Smith, a VIP concierge; Jimmie Lavergne, a table games dealer; Robert Williamson, a table games dealer; and Jessilyn Burge, an advertising coordinator. Burge was also designated as the November Employee of the Month and is now eligible to receive the coveted Employee of the Year award. Originally from Eunice, she has been employed with L’Auberge since 2009.
From left to right: Jimmie Lavergne, Robert Williamson, Jessilyn Burge, Christina Weishampel and Leonard Smith WCCH ANNOUNCES PROMOTION West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is pleased to announce that Jake Richey, BSRT (R) (MR) (CT), has been promoted from radiologic technologist to the position of Imaging Services director. In his new role, Richey will be responsible for planning, directing and supervising all technical aspects of WCCH’s Radiology Department as well as the hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging Center on Beglis Parkway in Sulphur. He will also direct and coordinate departmental activities in accordance with current Joint Commission requirements and Jake Richey administrative policies. Richey, a resident of Moss Bluff, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in radiologic technology from McNeese State University and is currently a member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. He has been employed with WCCH for 13 years. JANUARY 13, 2011
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CAMERON LNG, SEMPRA ENERGY DONATE TO CALCASIEU COMMUNITY CLINIC Cameron LNG joined with Calcasieu Community Clinic to present a Christmas gift from the Sempra Energy Foundation. The $10,000 donation is part of the Foundations’ Helping People in Need grant program awarded recently to non-profit organizations in California, Louisiana and Texas. The Sempra Energy Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private foundation based in San Diego, California, USA.
Melissa Portie of Cameron LNG presents a check for $10,000 to Kayla Rigney, Executive Director of the Calcasieu Community Clinic. The grant represents Sempra Energy Foundation’s “Season of Giving – Helping People in Need” program. Phone orders accepted with credit card.
CAMERON STATE BANK RECEIVES THE VETERANS SUPPORT AWARD Cameron State Bank was among the first recipients in the country to receive the Veterans Support Award from the Senior Housing Crime Prevention Foundation. George Clinard, vice president of SHCPF, commended the bank for partnering with the American Bankers Association and the Independent Community Bankers of America to participate in the foundation’s Veteran’s Initiative program. Cameron State Bank donated $250,000 to the initiative in 2010. Because of the bank’s support, each veteran resident will be provided a specially designed veteran’s personal lock box. In addition, SHCPF will provide each state veteran’s nursing home with its annual Time of Your Life video exhibit for the resident’s enjoyment, and each facility will receive an annual cash contribution for a Wish Comes True grant to be given to select veterans.
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George Clinard (rt), V.P. of the Sr. Housing Crime Prevention Foundation presents the Veterans Support Award to Roy Raftery, Jr., Cameron State Bank President and CEO. CAMERON STATE BANK DONATES TO WOUNDED WARRIORS Cameron State Bank has donated over $1,000 to the Wounded Warrior Project in 2010. For each Patriot Checking account opened at CSB, the bank makes a donation to the non-profit organization that brings tangible support to injured soldiers, both mentally and physically. The Patriot Checking account is available to active duty military, veterans, National Guard and reserve and their Volume 2 • Issue 20
families. The account offers free benefits such as mobile banking, patriotic checks, patriotic checkbook cover and a patriotic throw. Cameron State Bank also makes a donation to the American Red Cross for each Patriot Checking account that is opened. Information about Patriot Checking is available at any of the bank’s 21 locations in Southwest Louisiana, or by calling (337) 310-2265. CAMERON COMMUNICATIONS DONATES TO FUR AND WILDLIFE FESTIVAL Cameron Communications is proud to foster the heritage of the Fur and Wildlife Festival, and was again a corporate sponsor for the 2011 event. George Mack, president and general manager of Cameron Communications, presented a check of $5,000 to JoAnn Nunez, representative of the Fur and Wildlife Festival. It was held Jan. 7-8.
Geno Iafrate, Senior Vice President/General Manager of L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort; Julio Galan, Executive Director of Family & Youth; Stephanie Miller, General Manager of Snake River Grill; Joey Alcede, Family & Youth 2011 Board President; and Kerry Andersen, Director of Community and Public Relations of L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort.
Meet Sophie! Sniff... sniff... sniff... sniff... Oh, hi there! I smelled you there looking for ME!! I’m Sophie, and if you look in the dictionary under “happy,” they have a picture of me! Wouldn’t you like to get you some of that? Then check this out: I’m a 20-month-old Basset looking for a 4-ever home. I’ve had one litter of pups so I have the tenderness of a mommy but I’m still full of fun. I will warm your heart and bring joy to your home. Sophie is spayed, up to date on vaccines and is
a healthy girl waiting for her nose to finally lead her to YOU!! An adoption application can be printed from www.4PawsSocietyInc.com and faxed to (337) 558-6331. You can also contact fourpawssociety@aol.com and request that an application be emailed to you. A vet reference and home visit are part of the adoption process to ensure a good match between dog and family.
TJN
FAMILY AND YOUTH RECEIVES $3,500 DONATION FROM L’AUBERGE Family & Youth recently accepted a $3,500 donation from L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort. The money was raised from L’Auberge’s recent “Tasting on the Terrace” event held on the newly renovated Event Center Terrace to benefit Family & Youth’s Children’s Advocacy Center. Over 150 patrons sampled and learned about 50 unique wines from throughout the country. Local artist Candice Alexander also did a live painting of the event, which was raffled off to raise over $700 for Family & Youth’s CAC as well. BILLY NAVARRE DONATES TURKEYS TO AREA RESIDENTS Billy Navarre, owner of Billy Navarre Chevrolet, Honda and Hyundai has donated 100 turkeys each year for the last three years to the West Cal Kiwanis Club to help needy residents in the area during the holiday season. TJN
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Pictured with Mr. Navarre are Jareth Navarre, Sales Manager at Billy Navarre Chevrolet; Nat Banks, Salesperson at Billy Navarre Chevrolet of Sulphur & West Cal Kiwanis Club Representative; and Ryan Navarre, General Manager of Billy Navarre Chevrolet of Sulphur. Volume 2 • Issue 20
JANUARY 13, 2011
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Dang Yankee The
By Mike McHugh
New Year’s Traditions I have come to realize that I am a member of what has very much become a dying breed: namely, people who go to New Year’s Eve parties. It used to be, if you didn’t go out on New Year’s Eve, it was because you were either a cloistered nun or you had the personality of a potted plant. Nowadays, I hear people brag about the fact that they were in bed by 10 p.m. They didn’t even have enough curiosity stay up and find out whether Dick Clark was able to make it one more year.
So, just in case you were one of those wimpy types who turned in early, I’ll fill you in. Yes, he did make it, and not only that, he even proved that he is still the world’s oldest teenager by doing a Chinese fire drill with Ryan Seacrest at a red light on a busy Manhattan street. (Don’t believe me? Then stay up and watch it yourself next year, lowlife!) I’m not really sure why people’s attitudes have changed so much about going out on New Year’s Eve. Many express concern about all of
the drunks that are supposedly out on the road. Meanwhile, the drunks all end up staying home for fear of the DWI checkpoints, which for that one night are more numerous than the daiquiri stands. The police, on their part, sit at their checkpoints, with nothing to do on the empty streets but sip their coffee and point their radar guns at the tumbleweeds. Honestly, I really do like the way that people in Louisiana celebrate the New Year. There are a lot of traditions here that are not practiced up in Yankee Land. Take fireworks, for instance. There are no fireworks on New Year’s at all up there. It’s just too cold to go outside to shoot them off, for one, but the more important factor is that you just can’t trust the people up there with matches. This is why turkey fryers never really caught on in Yankee Land, not after all the news reports of people who burned down their decks on Thanksgiving. So, I’m happy that there’s usually nice weather on New Year’s for the sake of all of the state’s pyromaniacs. In fact, according to statistics provided by the world-renowned think tank, Boudreaux and Thibodeaux Research Associates, LLC, the amount of fireworks that Louisianans buy each New Year’s is one of the main reasons for our massive trade deficit with China. On my street at midnight, the fireworks produce so much smoke that I expect to see Kiss step out from it and do a Dr. Pepper commercial. But the best thing about all the fireworks is that they wake up all of those pansies who ended up turning in before 10 p.m. One tradition that I personally do not follow is to make New Year’s
resolutions. The way I figure, if I decide that I want to do something to improve my life, such as to maybe switch to a better quality of beer than Busch Light (if there is one), why wait until New Year’s Day to do it? I find it hilarious how busy all of the fitness centers get right after the first of the year. You have to park so far away from the place that you have to take a shuttle from your car to the front door. (Why not just run the distance; isn’t that the point of it all?) Yet, by the time January is over, all of those cars have moved back over to where they are normally found—in line for triple-decker super-sized Big Mac meals at the McDonald’s drive-thru. Another New Year’s tradition that was new to me here in Louisiana is the custom of eating black-eyed peas and cabbage on New Year’s Day. This is something that could never be attempted in Yankee Land, with the weather forcing everybody to stay huddled together in close quarters all winter. Here, on the other hand, there’s always the option of opening the windows. So, I was at a friend’s house this past New Year’s Day, and, lo and behold, they were serving blackeyed peas and cabbage with lunch. I had never really had the opportunity to actually partake of this traditional fare, and I learned that by eating it, you’re supposed to have good fortune in the coming year. So, I figured, especially with what I get paid for my writing, that I had nothing to lose by trying it. My hosts were amazed that I had never heard of this tradition, and they asked what I usually ate up in Yankee Land on New Year’s Day. “Aspirin,” I replied. TJN
If you’ve been thinking of buying or selling, NOW is the time before interest rates sky rocket. Our economy is good and new people are moving every day looking for homes to purchase. Don’t let someone else get that dream home you’ve been considering. CONTACT ME NOW!
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JANUARY 13, 2011
Volume 2 • Issue 20
By George “Tip” Cline
(which didn’t work out so well in the end, either); that them that gets do get and common sense rules will be obeyed and can be realistically enforced. Micromanagement is normally counterproductive in just about any circumstance. Not Everyone is a Winner When some of his athletes started selling off personal sports memorabilia, Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel remarked that since these players grew up in an era where everyone gets a trophy, these items don’t have the
kind of value that older generations place on them. Tressel’s analysis is quite valid, and shows that the “everybody is a winner” philosophy actually doesn’t make for everyone being a winner. It only elevates losers to the status of those that have truly achieved something. It ends up making real achievements less worthwhile and diminishes accomplishments. We promote a disturbing trend towards mediocrity when we don’t differentiate the meaning of accomplishments. If the drive for higher achievement is not encouraged, then we can only expect less. TJN
Happy 2011! Happy New Year and let’s get on with the show! We’ve all made it through the Christmas and New Year holidays and now we’ll look forward to the Mardi Gras season with renewed vigor. I won’t belabor the New Year’s resolution stuff—we know what that’s all about. I’ll allow you to suffer on your own in that regard. Hope that 2011 will bring some pleasant changes from the malaise of the last couple of years. I would never begin to say it can’t get any worse, because it surely could—but we won’t go there. Let’s think positive! Don’t Forget Your Gift Cards I’m sure that you received at least one gift card for Christmas. They’re the standard “I don’t know what to get them” item to purchase, along with old-fashioned gift certificates. Many of these cards wind up unused, and become an additional unearned revenue source for the issuing merchant and a loss to the card owner. I suggest you keep all your cards together in one place and make a list, so you have some kind of record of your stash. You can then refer to your list and make plans to utilize your goodies. Remember, someone thought enough of you to go to the trouble to get them for you, so you should at least have the good manners to use them and let the gift-giver know how much you enjoyed them. Check the expiration date so you have a viable card when you use it. Restaurant Bonus Coupons Many restaurants issued bonus coupons with the purchase of gift cards before the end of last year. Many of these extras have a time limit feature on them. Most of these rewards were in the area of 20 percent on your money, or an extra $5 when you purchased a $25 gift card. There were Volume 2 • Issue 20
some that offered a 40 percent premium. These bonuses could not be used before New Year’s Day, and most of them that I am aware of will expire in February. Again this is something to stay on top of. Don’t throw away your reward. Think of these items as you would cash. Would you go through your wallet and take out $5, $10 or $20 and just throw it out? Those bonus cards/certificates have just the same value as your hardearned cash. These items are discounts and not taxable revenue where you have to earn a dollar and a half (or so) to have a net dollar to spend.
(337) 478-8530 Ext. 120 CELL (337) 802-7410 FAX (337) 477-7217 bnavarre@flavinrealty.com www.flavinrealty.com
3221 Ryan St. Lake Charles
‘Rate Adjustments’ The New Year has not brought us price increases, heaven forbid, but rather, rate adjustments. The cable guys are “adjusting” rates, which you’ll see in your January statement. Nothing like paying several dollars a day to watch your own television. Boy oh boy, am I glad that my cable bill isn’t being raised, it is simply being adjusted. It will be so much easier on my wallet to know that I’ve just been adjusted. Normally, I go to my good friend Bruce, a highly experienced chiropractor, for adjustments. I hope he doesn’t think I’m being disloyal. Wake Up, NCAA! With the conclusion of the college football season, I’m still awaiting some sanity in the NCAA’s grasp on the reality of life. They’re constantly riding herd on players who make millions of dollars for their universities. They make them and the schools jump through hoops and hurdles that would pale a canine agility course, and expect idealized behavior. I’m sure the NCAA, like the Olympics, will eventually be forced to recognize that we don’t live in a Garden-of-Eden-style idealized world
Rob Robin has over thirty years experience and is recognized as the "Weather Authority" in Southwest Louisiana. Rob's dedication to the study of weather began as a hobby while still a young boy in Omaha, Nebraska. He continued to study meteorology through his teenage years in Los Angeles, California and while serving on active duty with the U.S. Air Force in Amarillo, Texas. Weather is very important in this area of the country and we pride ourselves on getting accurate up to the minute weather information to our listeners fast! Rob has a complete weather station including a Doppler radar terminal and a remote transmitter at his home. This enables KYKZ to get breaking weather bulletins on the air consistently first. That's why "when the weather turns bad, Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas turn to Southwest Louisiana's Country Leader - KYKZ."
JANUARY 13, 2011
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oyle By Jim D
Proud Southerner Sets the Record Straight Far be it from me to write about anything controversial or not politically correct. Yeah, right. Okay, Dear Readers, hold onto your hats as we visit those thrilling days of yesteryear so we might examine our present. My latest angst started for me about the umpteenth time I saw a commentator I usually like and have met, Chris Matthews, say reprehensible things about Southerners. I believe the record needs a little correction. As most of you know, I could not on my worst day be accused of being anything even nearly right of center. So what I have to say has no political motivation. And since so much of this exercise will deal with the vile institution of slavery, let me make clear that, like Thomas Jefferson, a Virginian who owned slaves all his life, I believe it should have never taken root in a nation formed 11 years after its founding document declared that “all men are created equal.” With that proviso…let us begin. I am a proud Southerner. I have been known to say, more than once, that I am a Southerner first and an American second. But the South of my imagination wasn’t made up of plantation owners and Simon Legrees. Its predominant population in most of the states, more true the further north you traveled, was made up of poor white, usually Scotch-Irish sharecroppers and small landowners scratching a living from the earth. Indeed, that is my heritage. Most Southerners owned no slaves but supported the political establishment of planters who did. Similar to today’s national organization, where most families have scant capital but support a political system run by banks and investment houses to their manifest injustice. PAGE 12
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Matthews was interviewing a member of the South Carolina Sons of Confederate Veterans on the day I clicked him off. The subject was South Carolina’s 150-year celebration of the anniversary of their secession vote, which they compared to the Declaration of Independence. Matthews considered that an act of “treason” and said the Confederate battle flag should be “banned” because it represented “slavery” and “rednecks.” Spoken like a true Philadelphian, or in my vocabulary, a know-nothing damned Yankee. If you want to ban the flag of the nation that supported, succored, established and gave comfort to the institution of slavery, start with the good ole Star Spangled Banner. Although the South is blamed for slavery because its institutions allowed it, it did not act alone. Even before the Federal Constitution was written, efforts were in place to end it. Jefferson chaired a Congressional committee of the Congress of the Confederation in 1784 which proposed slavery be illegal after the year 1800. But instead, the writers of the Federal Constitution incorporated both a Fugitive Slave Law and the reprehensible Three-Fifths Compromise for counting population of the states into its original document. Later, the Federal Congress exerted much effort into preserving slavery by enacting the Missouri Compromise of 1820, dividing the nation along a line just at the bottom of the Missouri border, causing Jefferson to say, when he heard of it, that it awoke him “like a fire bell in the night,” signaling the ultimate destruction of the Union. The Compromise of 1850 was made possible only by the passage, again by the Federal Congress, of a strengthened Fugitive Slave Law requiring the Volume 2 • Issue 20
return of escaped slaves to chains in the South. This effort was led by that fine native of Illinois, the diminutive Stephen A. Douglas. But in addition, the Federal Government passed special laws dealing with the sugar tariff to support Louisiana plantation owners so the slave trade would move further and further South. The stated policy of the Federal Government was to limit the spread of slavery, move it into the most Southern states, and eventually, it would die out. In other words, they weren’t interested in an outright ban and didn’t have the political will to do it. So, against that background, let’s see how the Civil War really started. There is no doubt that the reason South Carolina seceded, followed quickly by Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and North Carolina, was the election of Lincoln, which presaged, at the very least, trouble in the path of slavery. But Lincoln never had a stated policy to end the institution. In his inaugural address, his most aggressive line towards the South was that he pledged to “hold, occupy, and possess” the property of the United States and “collect the duties and imposts.” When the South Carolinians and others (Chalmette native Pierre G. T. Beauregard led the fight) gathered in the harbor, they fired when they believed Sumter was going to be fortified from the sea. It wasn’t. That didn’t start the war. The event that did came weeks later, when Lincoln asked the States for troops so he could invade the South and “quell the insurrection.” That policy drove Virginia out of the Union, along with Tennessee, Arkansas, and Texas, over the strong objection of Governor Sam Houston. Whatever its internal institutions, the Southern people wanted selfdetermination. When that has hap-
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pened in the modern era, the United States has been an enthusiastic supporter of those rights, such as the separation of Czechoslovakia, the reunification of Germany, and the dissolution of the Soviet Union. But when the Southern people wanted the same right in the 19th Century, it was called “treason.” Particularly hypocritical since secession had been recognized as a right of the states and had been discussed and threatened, usually by the New England states, as far back as 1812. Let me be completely honest. It burns me up to hear Yankees talk about the South being somehow inferior because it lost the Civil War and the Yankees got to write the history. It makes me madder still to hear commentators like Chris Matthews call our forefathers traitors and renegades for the simple act of defending their homes against invasion by a rampaging army. The South had Washington, Jefferson, Polk, Houston, and Breckenridge. We knew the difference between right and wrong, and, with some effort and discussion with the North, we’d have found a way to end slavery that wouldn’t have created the apartheid government which replaced it for almost 100 years. But the aftermath of a bloody war didn’t allow that. So let’s assign blame. But let’s remember our history, too. It’s a rich, multi-colored, historic one with room for all the sons and daughters of the South of whatever race. There’s nothing wrong with remembering history. After all, isn’t there something about being condemned to repeat it? I don’t expect anything like slavery to be repeated; but we are increasingly headed towards a political system with no middle class, which will be the death knell for the United States. Okay. Rant over. See you guys on the flip. TJN
605 Petro Point Dr., Lake Charles, LA
(337) 494-FLIP (3547)
3615 Maplewood Dr., Sulphur, LA
(337) 625-FLIP (3547)
JANUARY 13, 2011
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CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital Delivers the Latest Technology With the da Vinci SI CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital has introduced the da Vinci® Si™ Surgical System to its operating room and to the Southwest Louisiana Community. The da Vinci® Si™ has several unique features designed to provide additional clinical benefits and efficiency in the operating room, many of which translate to patient benefits. Here are a few features of the da Vinci® Si™: • Enhanced 3D, high-definition vision of operative field with up to 10x magnification, • New optional dual console allows second surgeon to provide assistance, • Superior visual clarity of tissue and anatomy, • Surgical dexterity and precision far greater than even the human hand, • Updated and simplified user inter face to enhance OR efficiency, and • New ergonomic settings for greater surgeon comfort. Together, these technological advancements provide surgeons with unparalleled precision, dexterity and control that enable a minimally invasive approach for many complex surgical procedures. “We believe that the new features of the da Vinci Si System will help us provide the best possible outcomes and is proof of our commitment to provide our community access to the latest advancements in minimally invasive surgery,” said Farjaad Siddiq, MD, Director of Robotic Surgery at St. Patrick Hospital. CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital has been performing da Vinci robotic assisted surgical procedures since
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2006. Dr. Siddiq says he is excited to enter the next phase of robotic surgery at St. Patrick. “Our surgical team has a great deal of experience, having performed hundreds of robot assisted procedures in the past several years. Our upgrade to the da Vinci Si shows our commitment to bringing the very latest in technology and quality care to the patients in Southwest Louisiana,” he said. da Vinci’s advanced level of technology takes surgery beyond the limits of the human hand. This acquisition compliments St. Patrick’s goal of extending minimally invasive surgery to the broadest possible base of patients. It can be used for a multitude of procedures, including, but not limited to: prostatectomy, hysterectomy and kidney surgery. The CHRISTUS St. Patrick robotic surgery physician team consists of urologist Farjaad Siddiq, MD and gynecologists Johnny Biddle, MD, James Brown, MD and Lee J. Monlezun, MD. CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital is asking for help from the community to name their da Vinci Si robot with a “Name Our Robot” Contest. The winner of the contest will receive an Apple® iPad®. To enter the contest, visit www.christusstpatrick.org and submit your entry to name the da Vinci Si robot. The last date for entries is Jan. 25, 2011. The winner will be announced Jan. 31 at 3 p.m. in the front lobby of St. Patrick Hospital (you do not have to be present to win).
TJN
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By Maria Alcantara Faul
Michelle E. Swift, DDS, Family Dentistry A New Reason to Smile
Out of dental school and back in the real world, Lake Charles native Michelle E. Swift had her eyes set on returning home to the Lake Area. The daughter of Bill and Sheryl Swift, she graduated from Barbe High School in 2000, and went on to obtain her Bachelor of Science degree in biology from LSU in Baton Rouge and her Doctor of Dental Science degree from LSU Dental School in New Orleans. In May, Dr. Swift was given the opportunity to purchase Dr. Charles Mackey’s practice. “Dr. Mackey is a family friend, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity,” she said. Dr. Mackey, who has been serving the Lake Area for over 50 years, still sees patients in the dental clinic every Wednesday. “He is a great mentor,” Dr. Swift said. “He is very knowledgeable and his patients love him. He has big shoes to fill, but I’ll definitely work hard to fill those shoes.” Michelle E. Swift, DDS, Family Dentistry provides all facets of general dentistry: from routine care to oral surgeries, dentures to crowns, fillings and even dental implants. Sedation is offered to patients “My passion is cosmetic dentistry, and I am really excited to offer cosmetic services to our patients,” Dr. Swift said. “Our goal is to help patients look and feel their best, so we would like to help them with options for cosmetic enhancements.” Gone are the days of the standard silver or white fillings. The dental clinic uses fillings to match the patient’s teeth color. They also offer free “teeth bleaching” to patients 16 Volume 2 • Issue 20
years of age and older. Sedation is available on request. Dr. Swift enjoys creating beautiful smiles for her patients. While in dental school, she was in the top of her class in esthetic dentistry. In 2008, Dr. Swift attended the International Symposium on Ceramics in Los Angeles, where she learned from the most prestigious cosmetic dentists across the world the components necessary in creating a perfect smile. Including Dr. Mackey’s years as a dentist, the current staff has over 100 years of dental experience. “We’re on growth mode,” Swift said. The office recently hired additional staff, and are upgrading a good bit of their equipment. “We recently
Elise Moore- dental assistant; Dr. Swift; and Brooke Sonnier- office manager. switched to digital X-rays, and we hope to eventually go paperless,” she said. As part of the office growth mode, the clinic is also in constant learning mode. “For the practice to continue to grow, we need to continue to grow as well,” Swift said. The clinic staff is scheduled to participate in an implant training course in February, and Swift plans to start offering Botox and Reslin injections this summer. “We hope to continue to grow and improve in ways that will benefit our patients and the community,” she said. Swift is excited to be back in Lake Charles and looks forward to providing quality dental service to her
patients, along with being an active member of the community. She currently serves on the board of the Arts and Humanities Council of Lake Charles and was recently appointed as the Southwest Louisiana Representative for the Louisiana Dental Services, a subsidiary of the Louisiana Dental Association. “Liking what you do makes work easy,” states Swift. “I like to work with my hands and I love helping my patients.” The clinic is open Mon.- Fri., from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is on call for their patients on record. The clinic accepts all forms of insurance, including Medicaid. For more information, call (337) 474-2960, or visit www.michelleswiftdds.com. TJN
Dr. Swift with a patient. JANUARY 13, 2011
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A Greener
W
RLD Sponsored by
Green Resolutions for the New Year By Lauren de Albuquerque I’m not one for New Year’s resolutions, but it’s nice to think about doing something special for Mother Earth in 2011. Let’s try to recycle more and cut down on plastic and water use. If we all do our part, we can make a difference! Cut down on plastic use It‘s estimated that about 500 billion plastic bags are used yearly throughout the world. These are 500 billion pieces of petroleum that don’t biodegrade. Rather, they just break down into smaller pieces that pollute our environment, often ending up in the ocean, and eaten by wildlife. That’s pretty sad. Lots of people are starting to use canvas shopping bags. They’re common and inexpensive. The supermarket where we shop in St. Maarten even offers them for free. They may be difficult to utilize when you’re doing a really big shopping, but let’s face it: we all run into the store for just a few things on a weekly basis, and this is the perfect time to use canvas bags. Stores like Sam’s Club don’t even offer bags (which makes sense because of the bulk items) and instead recycle boxes for carryout purposes. And make sure you recycle
those plastic grocery bags. We use ours when cleaning kitty litter. How do you use plastic in your everyday life? Do you purchase bottled water in bulk? In the long run, getting a water filter for your faucet, or using filtered water from your refrigerator, will save you money while saving the environment. You can carry your water around in a reusable bottle. Save the plastic containers that cottage cheese, dip, etc., come in and use them for leftovers instead of buying food storage containers. Barbecuing and eating outside is big in Louisiana, and our weather is such that we basically
With over 20 years of proudly servicing Southwest Louisiana, M&M Lawn and Irrigation passes on their sincere thanks to the community for their continued support and patronage in the New Year. Professionally licensed, insured, and bonded, M&M Lawn and Irrigation specializes in lawn maintenance and irrigation installation for both residential and commercial properties. • Lawn Maintenance • Irrigation Installation and Maintenance • Drainage and Erosion Control • Water Feature and Outdoor Lighting Installation PAGE 16
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do it year round. That adds up to a lot of paper plates. Instead, purchase plastic dishes from the dollar store that you can use again and again. I save the plastic from the dry cleaners and use it when I’m packing clothes in a suitcase. Folding garments nicely and then wrapping them in plastic cuts down on wrinkles. Can you recycle your toothbrushes? You certainly can. Clean them first by throwing them in the dishwasher. I use mine to clean jewelry; a friend uses hers to clean grout, around faucets, etc. They’re also good for cleaning window screens and combs and brushes, and make a great hair dye applicator if you color your hair at home. Get rid of junk mail Each year, around 19 billion catalogs are mailed to consumers in the U.S. All those catalogs consume more than 53 million trees and create 56 billion gallons of wastewater to produce. So after you throw that stack of catalogs in the recycling bin, go to catalogchoice.org to put a stop to all those unwanted catalogs. More trees spared and less waste equals less pollution. Less paper Paper towels are very convenient, but I can’t even begin to think of how many rolls we go through! It’s not necessary to use them every time there are a few drops of water on your kitchen counter. Sponges are perfect for that. Use tea towels to dry dishes, and another for drying your
hands. When you replace your sponges, keep the old ones in the workroom or garage—you never know when you’ll need them for clean-up. Save water If you have a dishwasher, use it. Running a fully loaded dishwasher without pre-rinsing the dishes can use a third less water than washing the dishes by hand. This could save up to 10 to 20 gallons of water a day. And by using the air-dry setting (instead of heat-dry), you will consume half the electricity without spending a dime. Showers conserve more water than baths. A full bathtub requires about 70 gallons of water, but a fiveminute shower uses only 10 to 25 gallons. Save even more water and money on your water bill by installing a super-efficient showerhead with a flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute (GPM). You can purchase these showerheads at your local hardware store. Try to use cold water when washing clothes as often as you can. Most of the energy used by washing machines is actually spent on heating the water. There are many good detergents out there specifically for cold water washes; your delicates should only be laundered in cold water. Speaking of laundry, a used dryer cloth is perfect for cleaning out the lint catcher! Hope these hints have helped. Happy Green New Year! TJN
Main Campus: New Iberia
Beginning
JANUARY 17 Dental Assistant 10 WEEKS Medical Office Assistant 8 WEEKS
CALL TODAY! Limited Seating
Tree Seedling Sale Jan.18-21 The Calcasieu Soil and Water Conservation District will conduct its annual tree seedling sale from Tues., Jan. 18, through Friday, Jan. 21, or until all trees are sold. The sale will be held at the USDA service centers in both DeRidder and Leesville, located at 597 Mahlon St., Suite B, in DeRidder and at 1100-C South 3rd St. in Leesville. Both sales will be from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. Trees will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis until all seedlings are sold. In the event it rains, the sales will be held inside each of the USDA locations.
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All seedlings are bare root from 12 inches to 24 inches tall. Hardwood seedlings — bald cypress, black walnut, sawtooth oak, southern red oak, water oak, white oak and yellow poplar — will sell for $1 each, while fruit tree seedlings — crabapple, mayhaw, native sweet pecan, persimmon and red mulberry — will sell for $2 each. Seedling care and planting instructions will be provided with each purchase. Call the DeRidder field office location at 463-8555 ext. 3, or the Leesville field office location at 239-2193 for information. TJN
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Gulf Coast Bird Club Announces Bluebird Program The Gulf Coast Bird Club announces its first meeting of 2011. The meeting will be held at McNeese State University’s Frasch Hall Auditorium on Thurs., Jan. 13 at 7 p.m. The program will be on the recent Bluebird expansion into the Lake Charles area. Bluebirds have been a threatened species in many states, but they are expanding in our area. The speaker will be Alton Puckett, an Extension Associate with the LSU AgCenter in Lake Charles. He is also the regional coordinator for the AgCenter’s Youth Wetlands Program in southwest Louisiana. He is a member of the Louisiana Bayou Bluebird Society, and manages and monitors the Bluebird Trail at Graywood. The Gulf Coast Bird Club is dedicated to promoting the knowledge and conservation of birdlife, other wildlife, natural habitats and natural resources; and to fostering an appreciation of our natural environment and of the significance of its influence upon human life. Founded in 1984, the club seeks to provide educational opportunities to the general public and to other organizations regarding bird life. It welcomes all who are interested in birding and nature to attend its educational meetings and participate in field trips. Field Trips during September through May give opportunities to see the many birds that inhabit, winter in, or migrate through our area. For more information contact David Booth at (337) 474-7325. For online information visit the Web site, www.//sites.google.com/site/gulfcoastbirdclub TJN
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While the rest of the country recuperates from the holidays, us lucky folks down here have an excuse to party for a few more months—it’s Mardi Gras! Definitely our favorite time of year, Phil and I love attending the different balls and throwing beads in the Krewe of Krewes parade. We belong to two krewes: we’re the current king and queen of Krewe de la Famille, and Phil is the captain, and I’m the secretary, of Krewe Déjà vu du Monde. Keeps us busy! Twelfth Night was awesome! We walked out one last time in our gorgeous royal costumes, created in New Orleans. Our theme for the La Famille ball in 2010 was “The Splendor of
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Versailles,” and our costumes are indeed splendid! We’re honored that the Convention and Visitors Bureau has requested that they be displayed in their building for the Mardi Gras season! Along with the private balls, there are all kinds of events happening in SWLA for you and your family to enjoy! Good food, good music, good times! See you there!
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Mardi Gras Queen’s Pageant Jan. 15, 9 a.m.; 6:30 p.m. Contraband Room, Lake Charles Civic Center There will be two events: one held at 9 a.m. for participants 5-15 years old and another at 6:30 p.m. for those 16-24 years old and up. Admission is $5 adults/$3 children 12 and under.
4710 Common St., Suite A • (337) 564-5769 www.theporchcoffeehouse.com
Annual Mardi Gras Run Sat., Feb. 26, 7 a.m. - until. Gueydan This yearly run, sponsored by Le Krewe de la Originals et les Enfants and the Duck Festival Association features an early morning chicken run, lunch, live music, an auction and a dance. Krewe of the Golden Years Mon., Feb. 28, 9 a.m. -2 p.m. Lake Charles Civic Center Senior citizens who have passed down Mardi Gras traditions celebrate the season with food and a Mardi Gras ball. Free to seniors 60 and up. Merchants’ Parade Fri., March 4, 7 p.m. Downtown-Midtown Lake Charles Carlyss Mardi Gras Trail Ride Sat., March 5, 8:30 a.m. Starts from the West Cal Arena in Sulphur, down Pete Seay Road and back. Admission fee for trail riders is $5. World Famous Cajun Extravaganza/Gumbo Cook-Off Sat., March 5, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Don’t miss this taste-from-everypot event or the live, hot Southern and Cajun music that comes along with it. Admission is $5; children 5 and under are admitted free. Sponsored by Citgo. Krewe of Omega Parade Saturday, March 5, 2 p.m. Downtown Lake Charles Zydeco Dance Sat., March 5, 3-5 p.m. Live bands playing Mambo and Zydeco.
15% Senior Discount All Doctors’ Prescriptions Accepted Experienced Professional Staff Most Insurance Accepted
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Krewe of Barkus Parade Sat., March 5, 3 p.m. Fantastically disguised canines parade in full Mardi Gras attire, all vying for the title of “Mystical Dog.” Entry fee applies. Krewe of Cosmos Presentation Sat., March 5, 6:30 p.m. Sulphur High School Auditorium
Krewe of Illusions Sat., March 5, 7:30 p.m. Celebrate Mardi Gras with the 21st annual presentation of the Krewe of Illusions. Tickets are $30 orchestra, formal attire required. $18 balcony reserved seating and $15 standard balcony seating, casual attire. Taste de la Louisiane Sun., March 6, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Pots and pots of all-you-can-eat traditional Louisiana cuisine for a $6 admission fee. Sponsored by SOWELA. Children’s Day Sun., March 6, noon – 3 p.m. Old-time Louisiana culture, arts and crafts, Mardi Gras music and magic. New this year is an education station complete with safety and health information. Sponsored by Cameron State Bank, Popeye’s and Mr. Gatti’s. Children’s Parade Sun., March 6, 3 p.m. Downtown Lake Charles A purple, green and gold parade for the young and young at heart. Royal Gala Mon., March 7, 7 p.m. The Cinderella moment of the season features the 2011 courts of more than 50 krewes with kings, queens, royal dukes and duchesses, captains, courtesans and jester, followed by a night of music and dancing. Tickets are $5 in advance, or $6 at the door. Children 5 and under are admitted for free.
FAT TUESDAY Krewe of Charlie Sioux Parade Block Party Tues., March 8, Noon Downtown Lake Charles, Corner of Broad and Ryan Sioux City, Lake Charles’ sister city, will hold a block party, complete with food, drinks, music and children’s activities. Motorcycles, Classics and Hot Rods Parade Tues., March 8, 1 p.m. Downtown Lake Charles Krewe of Krewes’ Parade Tues., March 8, 5:30 p.m. Downtown-Midtown Lake Charles Hundreds of elaborate krewe floats, filled with partiers in costumes, beads and more wind through the city in the culmination of the Fat Tuesday celebration. TJN Volume 2 • Issue 20
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By Penny J. Miller Looking back on hundreds of years of family dynamics, not only in America, but around the world, the gender roles of men and women in the home basically remained the same. Men were supposed to “hunt and gather” and “bring home the bacon,” while the little woman cared for the children, kept up the house, and “fried it up in a pan.” That’s why it is so amazing to see how our societies across the globe have made such drastic adjustments in their ideas of family roles and dual careers over the past 50 or so years. Gone are the days of the “June Cleaver” and “Ozzie and Harriet” mentality about women in the workplace or men not helping with the cooking. Modern society has become accustomed to both parents working, maintaining the household, and raising their children. We have now become a community that sees that there are no set roles for either partner – just a family working together. So, in this day and age of two-car garages, two-sink bathrooms, and two-income families; it should come as no surprise that many couples have found a way to balance their home and family life with individual goals and careers. One such local couple has comfortably embraced this philosophy and traded in their antiquated “His and Her” matching towels for individual “His and Her” businesses. Lake Charles natives Brian and Brenda Vallier have found a way to balance their daily routine of active dual parenting with the entrepreneurial responsibilities of each owning their own business. With Brian’s passion for design and development, and Brenda’s love of exercise and dance, both have brought a bit of their own home, health, and heart to our community through Vallier’s at Home, a custom furniture and interior design store, and Jazzercise Lake Charles Fitness Center. Volume 2 • Issue 20
Brenda and Brian Vallier JANUARY 13, 2011
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Left: Jazzercise offers a very unintimidating environment to workout and be healthy. Jazzercise instructor Meg Ortego signs in Russie Rogers for an hour of cardio, strength training and stretching. Owner Brenda Vallier is ready to make them sweat. Right: Jazzercise instructor Doris Mhire, works with Russie Rogers perfecting the side plank. JAZZERCISE If you’re looking for a fun and invigorating way to start off your New Year’s fitness resolution right, Jazzercise offers a 60-minute workout to the latest pop, jazz, R&B, Latin, and adult contemporary music hits in the industry. They’ve turned the best dance moves from hip-hop, yoga, Pilates, jazz dance, kickboxing and resistance training into an exciting and engaging full-body workout that covers cardio, strength training and stretching, all while you dance the inches away. Open seven days a week, Jazzercise Lake Charles Fitness Center offers 37 weekly classes with nine certified and enthusiastic instructors teaching locally and in DeRidder. Clients can choose between lowimpact Jazzercise Lite classes for those just starting out, the high-energy excitement of Jazzercise’s original dance workout, or the challenging Body Sculpting class to tighten and tone those trouble areas. As a certified Jazzercise instructor and trainer for over five and a half years, Brenda Vallier stated that she is very grateful and proud of how her dedicated client base has continued to support her and grow over the years. “We have housewives, attorneys, nurses, and college students,” she said. “We have students from all
walks of life. It’s a very warm and welcoming atmosphere, and the ladies that attend our classes aren’t just my students – they’re my friends.” The Lake Charles location of Jazzercise opened its doors in 2004 and had approximately 150 students prior to Hurricane Rita in 2005. Brenda said that after the storm, her student list dropped to only 7, but since then, her business has grown to over 400 students, making her location the fastest growing Jazzercise in her district, which includes the surrounding five eastern states, including Louisiana. “We’re in competition with larger cities like Atlanta, New Orleans, and several major cities in Florida,” Brenda said. “But we’re growing faster than any of them, thanks to the wonderful women we teach.”
When asked how she began her journey with Jazzercise, Brenda said that she started out with kickboxing. “I wasn’t a girly girl or into aerobics, but my sister in Birmingham dragged me to a Jazzercise class, and after the second or third class I was hooked. I knew it was what I wanted to do,” she said. “I was her guinea pig when she was practicing for her instructor certification, said her husband Brian.” “She tried out all the different routines on me before she took her test, and I was hurting.” Now, I attend the Valentine’s Day classes that include the husbands and boyfriends. We mostly just dance around and look silly, because we can’t keep up. But, we have a lot of fun.” Jazzercise does not require memberships or contracts. Students pay a
modest $39 per month for unlimited access to all the classes offered. “There’s no need for us to have contracts that bind members for years at a time,” Brenda said. “I always tell my students, ‘I’m going to keep you here and coming back through entertainment and results.’” As the world’s leading dance fitness program, Jazzercise is ranked as Entrepreneur Magazine’s number one fitness business on their Top 500 Franchises for 2011 list, and ranked number 17 on their overall franchise 500 listings. With over 40 years in the fitness industry, Jazzercise hosts a network of over 7,800 instructors across all 50 states and in 32 countries, with over 32,000 classes held weekly around the world.
Jazzercise instructors from left to right: Lainie Petticrew, Karlie LeJeune, Nicole Simien, Brenda Vallier (owner), Paula Hilliard and Kimberly Bobbitt.
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Vallier at Home new Spring collection.
Brian Vallier with one of the many pieces he designed.
Designer Wesley Marcantel with a imported Asian Opium Day Bed. “All Things French Country” decor.
VALLIER AT HOME Whether you’re furnishing your new home, redesigning your office, or just looking for those special pieces to give your room that exceptional flare, you’ll have global design opportunities at Vallier at Home. Vallier’s specializes in distinguishing custom, and one-of-akind furniture and décor items for the bedroom, living room, dining room, office and more. “We wanted to bring unique and eclectic, not cookie cutter items, to the people of our community,” Brian said. “We look for quality products with distinct designs from all over the world.” No matter the current style or period you are looking for, Vallier’s carries a wide variety of Mediterranean, South American, European, and Americana selections to choose from, just to
name a few. In addition, Vallier’s offers custom drapery and upholstery designs to pull the feel of your rooms together. Their high-end design of fashion and style for your home also includes custom order capabilities. “I often design the pieces myself and have them manufactured,” Brian said. If his customers are looking for a certain style or type of piece, he has manufacturers around the world that are capable of finding or reproducing just about anything they’re looking for. His staff will also come to your home to help you create the look of the room you are furnishing. With an inventory that is constantly changing and recreating itself weekly, customers are sure to find new and exciting home décor possibilities at Vallier’s at Home.
Brian Vallier with HGTV Designer Vern Yip on a Shopping Spree for clients.
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COMING TOGETHER Although their businesses seem miles apart, the Vallier’s are a united front in both their home and businesses. As Lake Charles natives and proud parents of three children, they have deep ties to this community. Brian is a graduate of LaGrange High School and Brenda graduated from Victory Baptist Academy. The couple met at a McNeese State University function and have been a driving entrepreneurial force ever since. They began their business adventures together in Houston, where they owned and operated a largescale Paint Ball and sporting goods business for nine years before returning to the Lake Area. Once back home, they established themselves with the real estate firm Vallier Development, LLC,
where they shared ownership and with Brian as the broker. He specialized in new project settlements and real estate developments. “Part of how I transitioned into the furniture business was through my real estate experience,” Brian said. “I’ve always been into developing properties and staging the houses.” He always knew what type of interior décor gave the houses greater appeal and would show the buyers all the possibilities the homes had to offer. During his time as a broker, Brian was offered the position as the Regional Chairman of the Republican Party and had the privilege of working with former President George W. Bush, along with several other high-level political figures. But in 2004, with his roots and family in Lake Charles, he opted
to remain in the area and establish their businesses. The first Vallier’s at Home was established in Beaumont, TX around the same time they opened Jazzercise, but Hurricane Rita took the building and its contents to the ground just as they were preparing to bring the first shipment of items into the Lake Charles store. “After the storm, we came back to an empty store with furniture still in the boxes,” Brenda said. “Customers were coming through the door and we were selling items right out of the crates.” Since then, they’ve rebuilt two thriving, fledgling businesses through their joined client base and with mutual assistance and advice. So, although their businesses are separate, in coming together, it’s a family affair.
The Vallier family thanks all of their Jazzercise and Vallier at Home customers for their continued support, and wishes them all the best in the coming New Year! For more information about Jazzercise, contact Brenda Vallier at (337) 477-2114 or visit 201 W. College Street in Lake Charles. Class times and information can be viewed at www.jazzercise.com. For more information about Vallier at Home, contact Brian Vallier at (337) 437-7633 or visit 2001 Ryan Street in Lake Charles. Additional information and designs samples are available at www.vallierathome.com. Also, check out Vallier at Home on Facebook. TJN
OUR PHYSICAL THERAPY STAFF IS GROWING We would like to welcome Emery DeSonier, PT, DPT, to our clinic! Hope Therapy Center is very happy to welcome Emery DeSonier, PT, DPT, as the newest member of our therapy team! A native of Lake Charles, she returns to the Lake Area with more than 9 years of Physical Therapy experience. Emery DeSonier received her Bachelors degree from Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama, and her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. She began her career here in Lake Charles and brings the additional skills she has gained from working at The NeuroMedical Center of Baton Rouge, and Texas Children’s Hospital of Houston, to our team at Hope Therapy Center. She specializes in working with adults and pediatrics with neurological, vestibular, and orthopedic impairments. Patients of all ages who have difficulty with balance, dizziness, or nerve problems can benefit from the physical therapy team at Hope Therapy. Specialized programs include but are not limited to those for dizziness, balance disorders, fall prevention, gait instability, post-op spine rehab, paraplegia, stroke, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, or cerebral palsy. For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Emery call Hope Therapy Center at 478-5880.
From left to right: Sonya M. Brooks, MA, CCC-SLP; Kim B. Anderson, PT, DPT; Mika Doucet, LOTR, MOT; seated, Kelly Abate, MA, CF-SLP and Kristin Mathis, PT, DPT.
Emery DeSonier, PT, DPT PAGE 28
JANUARY 13, 2011
Volume 2 • Issue 20
Sponsored by
ker n Shouma By Brando
A Pox on the ‘Tax’
It pays to be creative in a bad economy. Just ask college athletic directors. With the economy in the toilet and state legislatures across the nation ravaging university coffers, money shortages for college athletics are pretty common.
Volume 2 • Issue 20
Which leads to some…interesting problem-solving ideas. By far the most common avenue athletic directors are taking is the “personalized seat licensing” or “Scholarship Fund” (capital letters necessary) fee. It seems everyone is doing it; our good friends over at The Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical School have been doing it for several years with their Tiger Athletic Foundation (TAF) tax on football season tickets. “So, what does that have to do with me?” you ask. “I’m a diehard McNeese Cowboy fan. I’m out there
every season, week-in and week-out, with my season tickets and tailgating pass, bleeding blue and gold all over the place,” you say. Well, McNeese athletic director Tommy McClelland is considering a similar tax on Cowboys season tickets. Shocking, right? It’s enough to make you flip your lid (festooned in fleur de lis, of course…it is Saints season, after all). Here’s the deal: McClelland sent out a letter, dated Dec. 1, to all McNeese football season ticket holders laying out the idea for a Priority Seating Program (again, the capital letters emphasizing the pro-
gram’s importance) to be implemented for the 2011 season. In short, McClelland and his crack team of staffers want to require all season ticket holders to donate a fee to the McNeese Athletic Foundation for both the right to buy season tickets (between $50-$125 per account for regular old stadium seating) as well as the right to park your car somewhere east of Nelson Road on game day (between $75$150 for a parking spot). You heard it here first: if McClelland had his way, McNeese sports fans would have to pay a fee in order to spend money on McNeese sports.
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If I may: Dumbest. Idea. Ever. To quote the McClelland letter, “You may be asking yourself, why?” The letter spells out McClelland’s arguments for his ticket tax, citing three different factors. The first, which is copied almost word-forword from a University of Delaware ticket brochure, is the rising costs of athlete scholarships “which makes up about one third (approximately $2 million) of the athletic department’s operating budget and half (approximately $600,000) of football operating expenditures.” The second, and legitimately scary reason, is the gutting of state higher education funding at the expense of, say, chicken plants and idle ethanol refineries. The final argument, which he says is the “key reason” behind the whole thing, is “our ability to continue to compete at the national level.” He then goes down a list of FCS programs, Appalachian State, Delaware, Montana, and Georgia Southern to name a few, currently operating a similar scheme. I actually LOLed after reading that. I didn’t even know that was possible. Seriously, McNeese? At the
risk of sounding like everyone’s mother, “If App State jumps off a bridge, are you going to jump off, too?” Must have been those Personalized Seat Licenses that sent Eastern Washington and Delaware to the FCS championship game this season. The facts are, among the 11 schools mentioned in the letter, McNeese’s season-ticket price for a regular-old stadium seat, $90, is the second cheapest in the bunch. Appalachian State’s is the most expensive at $160 per seat while Youngstown State brings up the rear at $60 a seat. In addition, I don’t ever remember seeing a commercial, reading a story in the local rag, or hearing my good (and now departed for the city lights of Paducah, Ky.) buddy Tom Annino half-yell a news package at me promoting season-ticket sales this past year. I am a McNeese alum and I don’t recall ever getting a phone call asking me to consider buying season tickets. My father-in-law, who is a season-ticket holder, never had a McNeese representative come to his office and pitch season tickets.
Sat., Jan. 15 - Cowboys vs. Texas State @ 3:00 p.m.
And, boy is the timing of this letter lousy. I could see pitching this kind of thing if the Cowboys were coming off of a playoff year or a national championship run. But McNeese just went 6-5, losing to a Central Arkansas team that, despite an apparent lack of a Priority Seating Program, was able to end the Cowboys’ season short of the playoffs. Frankly, this letter says to me that McNeese has given up trying to bring in new season-ticket buyers and is instead going to tax the folks who already give the athletics programs their support through season-ticket purchasing, booster club membership, and tailgate permit purchasing. The struggling economy that McClelland’s letter mentions is also hitting those folks who buy the tickets hard also. Adding a hefty surcharge on top of the money they already spend would probably price out a lot of long-time seasonticket holders. Not that there would be a whole lot of folks waiting to snap those abandoned and, potentially more expensive, seats up. McNeese, contrary to what appears to be the thought in the AD’s office, is not LSU and there isn’t a waiting list for season tickets. The easy solution would be to raise ticket and parking prices. McNeese football enjoys one of the largest average attendance numbers in the FCS, so, even raising seasonticket prices $10 or $20 would bring in quite a bit of revenue. Yes, that’s still going to hurt the pocketbooks of some, but that’s nothing compared to a possible $125 tax on top of a $90 ticket. The second solution, one that would require a modicum of effort on McNeese’s part, would be to
pound the pavement and sell, sell, sell those season tickets to anyone with disposable income. Doctors, lawyers, businessmen, that’s your first target, MSU. “They make great gifts for your office staff,” you tell them. Then come the alumni. “You still live in the area? How about buying some football tickets? Help support your alma mater. You don’t like football? How about just a donation?” A word of warning, McNeese folks: you might have to get out of your car to pull it all off. Anyway. Maybe there’s such a thing as being too creative. Maybe finding a solution to these financial issues requires a little less thinking and a lot more action. McNeese’s season-ticket holders are some of the most diehard fans in the country. And sure, a Priority Seating Program would generate some revenue in the short-term. But, if you’re McNeese, you’ve got to think about the costs, in terms of hard feelings and empty seats, over the long term. Brandon Shoumaker is a graduate of McNeese State University and has covered sports for more than seven years for various publications. Coaches or Brandon Shoumaker parents with story tips may contact Brandon at bshoumaker@yahoo.com or send him a message on Twitter (@bshoumaker).
TJN
Wed., Jan. 19 – Cowgirls vs. Southeastern Louisiana @ 7:00 p.m. • All games feature the Rowdy’s Wranglers Kid Zone • Children 12 and under receive admission for only $3.00 • Adult Group Tickets are available for only $4.00 with a purchase of 25 or more.
Please contact the special services and equality office at least 72 hours before any home event to request accommodations for individuals with disabilities. This includes the need for materials in an alternative format such as large print or Braille, sign language interpreters, accessible seating, and accessible parking information. Ph: (337) 475-5428.
Alcoholic & NonAlcoholic Fun for Everyone! Weddings • Holidays • Birthdays We bring the party to you!
3373044652
www.mrmargaritalakecharles.com PAGE 30
JANUARY 13, 2011
Volume 2 • Issue 20
der useum n e l l n E dren's M a D By e Chil f th o r o ct Dire
Tron: Legacy (Disney 2010) Remember the original Tron? Me neither. I had to go back and review the plot: Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges) works for software giant Encom and also creates video games on the side. An evil villain in the company is stealing Flynn’s software creations, so Flynn finds a way to get inside the company’s mainframe and play lots of cool games, saving the company in the process. Or something like that. In Legacy, Flynn’s son, Sam, has grown up and his father has disap-
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peared (Guess where he is?). Sam soon meets up with his Dad in the virtual world he created in the first Tron. However, the villain here is an amazing computer generated version of a human, known as Clu. (And that’s a clue as to who he is. Who it is. Depending on your definitions of life and intelligence.) Together, Sam and his father go head to head with Clu, who dreams of getting out into the real world and ruling it, sort of a virtual Hitler or Darth Vader. This, of course, includes playing lots of arena-type games, where the loser is killed, or de-rezzed. OK, so this is another smash-up movie in the virtual world race-car gamer genre, put out by Disney to make a few bucks off of the Tron cult that grew up after the 80s. Cynical me.
Yet Tron: Legacy is almost a really good movie. The computer graphics are seamless, and quite honestly make the old Tron hard to watch. (Not that you can find a copy of it anywhere.) Jeff Bridges, revising his role as old man Flynn, is a Zen meditating bearded guru kind of guy. (“I’m going to go knock on the sky for awhile and listen to the sound.”) As son of Flynn, Garrett Hedlund is cocky and testosterone-charged enough to develop a chemistry with Quorra, a mysterious cat-suited beauty who is devoted to his father. (All the ladies in Tron wear cat suits. Evidently, it’s part of the gamer dress code for women.) Along the way, Flynn and Flynn end up at End of Line, a sort of virtual Casablanca Cantina where the folks, ‘scuse me, Programs, go to unwind. This was my least favorite part of the movie, where a character named Castor runs the bar scene as a David Bowie wannabe. He doesn’t quite kill the movie, but comes close, sporting a white sequined tux, cane, and fake Bob Fosse choreography. I wish they’d gotten Bowie himself for this part. Thank goodness there are no musical numbers,
unless you count Daft Punk as two DJ’s kicking up the music. That’s another point. The electronic score, composed by the tech duo, really helps to make the movie flow. I’m amazed at how Legacy reminds us so well of the old Tron while actually surpassing it. I think guys will enjoy all the computer game competitions, the campy women, and the well-done computer graphics. Garrett Holland as Sam may be appealing to the ladies in the audience, but overall, the Legacy of Tron is a guy’s world. The idea of father and son getting together for one last game was better presented in Field of Dreams, but this one is fun, too. It’s ironic: For all Tron: Legacy is about little boys growing up and reconciling with their fathers, here they grow up to continue playing games. It’s just that they have different names: Stock Market, World Domination, and so on. The nongamer ladies who get dragged to this one should consider planning a payback date night with their hubby, minus the kids. TJN
JANUARY 13, 2011
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By Mary Louise Ruehr
Inspirational Reading to Uplift the Spirit Whatever religion or belief system we identify as our own, many of us find our lives enriched when we embrace the words of wisdom to be found in other faiths. The Dalai Lama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. As the ruler-in-exile of the nation of Tibet, which was taken over by the Chinese communists, he has brought hope and inspiration to the world with his message of peace and compassion. This message con-
tinues in My Spiritual Journey, written by The Dalai Lama with Sofia Stril-Rever. He writes about his life (born on July 6, 1935, the son of farmers, and given the name Lhamo Thondup), from his boyhood, to how he was recognized as the next incarnation of the Dalai Lama, through his years of training as a monk, to his life in exile as a world leader. The book is part autobiographical, part historical, and part spiritu-
al, mixed with archived personal reflections and excerpts from his Dharma talks and public speeches. He writes about being Dalai Lama (“Religious practice is a 24/7 occupation”), politics, the Chinese takeover of his country (“I ask the world not to forget that thousands of Tibetans were massacred”), science, motivation and ethics, and the environment. He explains the Buddhist principles (“I believe that the aim of life is to be happy”) and insists, “I am a simple Buddhist monk.” The Dalai Lama calls for a universal “spiritual revolution”: “Each person’s happiness can make a profound, effective contribution that can improve the entire human community.” He even talks about his death and possible successor (“Why shouldn’t a very beautiful woman be my next incarnation?”). The book is both thoughtful and thought-provoking. “Until my last breath, I will practice compassion,” writes one of the greatest spiritual leaders of our time. PAGE 32
JANUARY 13, 2011
The C.S. Lewis Bible is a complete volume of the New Revised Standard Version of the Old and New Testaments, annotated and interspersed with excerpts from the writings of the beloved author C.S. Lewis. Lewis earned three academic degrees — in classics, literature, and philosophy — and, more than 45 years after his death, he is now regarded as one of the leading theologians of his day. In this volume, scholars “have brought together hundreds of things that [Lewis] has written from the Narnian chronicles, his scholarly essays, his Christian apologetic works, and even his letters.” More than 600 readings from his writings are paired alongside relevant biblical passages. For example, in the book of Genesis, beside the story of Creation there’s a piece from The Magician’s Nephew. In my favorite book of the Volume 2 • Issue 20
Bible, Ecclesiastes, there are several excerpts from The Screwtape Letters. If I handed out star ratings, I’d throw a whole handful at this book. It’s absolutely lovely — and heavy; it weighs more than 2.5 pounds. Besides the complete Bible and the Lewis excerpts, there are introductory essays on Lewis and, in the back, indexes and a concordance. Forty years ago, at the dawn of the “New Age,” Ram Dass wrote Be Here Now, a best seller that introduced readers to simple, ancient spiritual insights they might never have considered before. Now, with Rameshwar Das, he has written Be Love Now: The Path of the Heart. Ram Dass is the name given to psychologist Richard Alpert by his guru in India, and much of this book is a tribute to that guru, the late Maharaj-ji. The author also relates stories about other Hindu spiritual leaders (of whom he writes: “These beings are like luminous jewels of higher consciousness”) and friends in India, interspersed with many callout quotes from other sources of all faiths. There is a long foreword about the life of Ram Dass, meeting and
working with his guru, and his experiences with writing Be Here Now. But most of the book is a sermon about or a meditation on love. He wants us to start with faith: “Faith comes through grace. You can cultivate it by opening your spiritual heart and quieting your mind until you feel the validity of your identity with your deeper Self. The qualities of that Self are peace, joy, compassion, wisdom, and love.” Then, “If I go into the place in myself that is love and you go into
the place in yourself that is love, we are together in love. Then you and I are truly in love, the state of being love. That’s the entrance to Oneness.” He writes, “Once you have experienced unconditional love, you have nowhere to go … you can only grow into who you truly are.” He suggests that, “this can be your reality, to be loved unconditionally and to begin to become that love. This path of love
doesn’t go anywhere. It just brings you more here into the present moment, into the reality of who you already are. This path takes you out of your mind and into your heart.” In The Greatest Prayer: Rediscovering the Revolutionary Message of The Lord’s Prayer, John Dominic Crossan takes an overall as well as a line-by-line look at the prayer suggested by Jesus in the New Testament, also known as the “Our Father” or the Abba Prayer. The author writes that “this book is a biblical meditation on the Lord’s Prayer,” which he suggests is “a prayer from the heart of Judaism on the lips of Christianity for the conscience of the world … a radical manifesto and a hymn of hope for all humanity in language addressed to all the earth.” He talks about why we call God the “Father,” divine justice, and the biblical description of Creation, and he brings in theology, biblical references, history, metaphor, and even the structure of the prayer’s sentences. Copyright © 2011 Mary Louise Ruehr. TJN
The Place to Browse Augustine’s is the place to be. We have lots of new merchandise that’s just arrived! Everything we have is one of a kind—all at reasonable prices! • Couches: $49 and up • Tables and chairs: $49 and up • Washers or dryers: $49 each • Recliners: $39 and up • Comfy chairs: $29 and up We’re selling a beautiful bedroom suite that retails for $3,000. Our price is $895—like new! Looking for a unique long table with six chairs? We have a set that’s over 30 years old— you have to see it to appreciate it! And don’t forget to check out our armoires, buffets, dressers, bureaus, beds and single chairs.
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We also have a large selection of secondhand wristwatches, knives and swords, dinner plates, coffee cups and glasses—sold singly or in sets. And we have antiques at fair prices. So, what are you waiting for? Come to Augustine’s! We have something for everyone!
Augustine’s Secondhand Furniture 2100 E. Prien Lake Rd. Lake Charles (337) 842-1736 JANUARY 13, 2011
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U A B A F N OLY
Brought to you by Melanie Perry, Agent 108A Executive Drive, Moss Bluff, LA 70611 BUS: 337-855-7768 www.melanieperry.net State Farm, Bloomington, IL
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Volume 2 • Issue 20
Join Kevin Davis each Saturday morning for THE BIG O TRADING POST! It's an old fashion swap shop where you can buy, sell, trade, and even give away items. Get together with Kevin every Saturday morning from 9 until Noon for THE BIG O TRADING POST on SUPER TALK 1400 KAOK, brought to you by BIG O PORTABLE BUILDINGS. Show sponsors include: Zack’s Pro Truck & Trailer, Appliance Plus Sales & Service, Old Towne General Store, Cajun Lights & Décor and Big A Pawn.
Host, Kevin Davis
Killin’ Time Crossword
Crossword puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.com (www.bestcrosswords.com). Used with permission. Volume 2 • Issue 20
JANUARY 13, 2011
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HOLIDAY TOUR OF HOMES A slow drive along scenic Shell Beach Drive can certainly stir the Curious George in all of us… I always wonder what the inside of these homes are like. Well, for many folks, a little chilly weather on a Sunday afternoon was ideal to tour four exquisite Shell Beach homes featured on the Lake Charles Symphony’s Holiday Tour of Homes. Visitors felt right “at home” as they admired the holiday decor and unique designs of each house. Live music by the Lake Charles Youth Symphony echoed through the hallways, adding a special twist to this lovely experience. Special thanks to the Empire of the Seed Historic Properties and the Lake Charles Symphony for presenting such a wonderful holiday event to our community!
Rob and Julia Brooks
Linda Mesh, Tommie Cloutier and Terry Murphy
Charles Burton and AunJelle LaFleur
Rebekah Winters and Beverly Rasberary
Susie Miller and Jeanette McCann
Becky Goodloe and Dorothy McDaniel
Lisa Schumacher and Allison DeRouen
MARDI GRAS COMMUNITY DANCE We were all having a toe tappin’, body slappin’ good time at the Mardi Gras Community indoor dance at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Through the sponsorship of the City of Lake Charles, Community Inclusion, and Billy Navarre, this group of Mardi Gras party animals were able to “pass a good time,” dance a little Mardi Gras Mambo with the queens, savor the flavor of tasty food and enjoy fellowship with friends old and new. The party season has begun! Kaitlyn Lovett, Nancy Weidner and Caitlin Cryar PAGE 36
JANUARY 13, 2011
Bob and Ona Jines Volume 2 • Issue 20
Dustin Biano and Christy Bollich
Bradley Bryant and Paula Cormier
Julie Babineaux and Jackie Schuldes
TWELFTH NIGHT CELEBRATION Okay, folks—Christmas is over, so it’s time to let the good times roll! The Feast of Epiphany celebration kicked off the 2011 Mardi Gras season! There’s no turning back-the pageantry of purple, gold and green is picking up speed until Fat Tuesday on March 8. Spectators were well-entertained tonight at the Lake Charles Civic Center with the grand promenade of kings, queens and captains costumed in elaborate feathers, masks, crowns, beads and more! You can’t help but smile and tap your feet to the Mardi Gras beat. Laissez les bon temps roulez! Bree and Maci Stringer
Wayne and Sissie McClure
Carl and Janice Lopez
Cookie and Dave Phillips and Jodi and John Fontenot
Kaitlyn Bergeron and Mark Lavergne
Diane Buchanan, Butch Guillory, Martha Crowder and Joyce Stout
Lance Blanchard and Kacie White
Maaliyah Papillion, Hope Mestayer and Madalyn Gordon
Volume 2 • Issue 20
JANUARY 13, 2011
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DOGGIE ADOPTION DAY The barks of little critters nestled in crates in the Animal Services Adoption Bus lured many people to take a closer look at these irresistible pups! Animal Services and their friendly staff came out to a local pet store on a cold, windy day with their loveable furry friends to help them find the family and new home that best suits them! The rescue and adoption of a shelter dog is exciting and rewarding for both the pet and family. The folks at Animal Services made sure that potential owners understood the importance of their new responsibilities. “Paws” to all who care for these furry friends--they need our love! TJN Autum Buck with her friend Piper
Aidan Wood, Alexis Bowser and Adyson Wood
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JANUARY 13, 2011
Kaleb Borne and Kristina LeBleu
Vanessa Trost and Paula Hardy
Madison Barnes with Lauren Kate
Volume 2 • Issue 20
MLK FESTIVAL JAN. 14 – 17. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Festival is an annual event that is celebrated Jan. 14–17 with various activities during those four days to commemorate the life of one man who changed America. • FRI., JAN. 14 - Memorial Breakfast Held at Trinity Baptist Church at 7:30 a.m., the breakfast will be aired live on KPLC-TV and will honor individual efforts throughout the community. • SAT., JAN. 15 - Sometimes Love Ain’t Enough Get ready for an evening of enlightenment with the gospel hit stage play, at Central School Arts & Humanities Center Theater in Lake Charles at 7:30 p.m. • SUN., JAN. 16 - Gospel Extravaganza Singers from all over Louisiana will come together at the Throne of Grace Fellowship Church in Lake Charles. • MON., JAN 17 - The 27th Annual MLK Coalition Festival Family Day Head to the Lake Charles Civic Center and enjoy live local and national entertainers in the R&B, Blues and Southern Soul genres. Don’t miss the Gumbo/Sauce Piquant Cook-Off Contest as well as exhibitions by hundreds of local vendors featuring arts, crafts, and Creole and Cajun food. Kids of all ages will get a chance to catch throws at the parade, which leaves the Civic Center at 11 a.m. Admission to the MLK Family Day is free with the purchase of an official MLK T-shirt. Children 12 and under are also admitted free. Details on these events can be found at www.kzwa.com, by calling Faye Blackwell at (337) 4919955, or by visiting www.visitlakecharles.org.
BRIAN MCKNIGHT AT DELTA EVENT CENTER JAN. 16 Brian McKnight will be performing his many hits at the Delta Event Center for a one-night-only performance, starting at 8 p.m. on Sun., Jan. 16. McKnight has released 13 albums to date, and has sold over 20 million albums worldwide. He is the recipient of Soul Train and Image awards, and has received 16 Grammy nominations. Tickets to see McKnight perform live start at $30 and are available online at www.deltadowns.com and www.ticketmaster.com, and at The Delta Downs Gift Shop. To charge by phone call (800) 745-3000. JANUARY EVENTS AT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM • MON., JAN. 17- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Workshop: Live the Dream Let’s celebrate with a “Live the Dream” Workshop! This craft symbolizes peace and cultural unity. Workshops are free of charge. Classes begin at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and are limited to 15 children. • THURS., JAN. 20 - Adventures of the Senses This is a program for families with autism spectrum disorders. It is an after-hours opportunity to enjoy the museum with other families dealing with similar impairments. It also allows parents to help their children develop language and social skills. This program is from 5-6:30 p.m. Admission fees paid by SWLA Autism Chapter, but donations are welcome. • SAT., JAN. 29 - Let’s Get Ready to Rodeo Come in and learn how to calf rope! Join the Montgomery family at 11 a.m. as they demonstrate roping techniques. Dress up in rodeo attire and get $1 off admission. The Children’s Museum is located at 327 Broad Street downtown Lake Charles. Museum hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is $7.25 for children and adults. Call (337) 433-9420 or visit www.swlakids.org for a complete list of admission fees, memberships and birthday party information.
J Robert Volume 2 • Issue 20
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CROSSROADS PRESENTS 100 YEARS OF ROBERT JOHNSON JAN. 20 The City of Lake Charles and Louisiana Crossroads will bring audience and artists together as they present 100 Years of Robert Johnson with Scott Ainslie, Sam Broussard and David Egan in a live broadcast at 7 p.m., Thurs., Jan. 20, at Central School Theater. The program will air via 100,000-watt regional National Public Radio affiliate KRVS. Robert Johnson was an American n nso
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blues singer and musician. His landmark recordings from 1936–1937 display a remarkable combination of singing, guitar skills, and songwriting talent that have influenced generations of musicians. He was ranked fifth in Rolling Stone’s list of 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as an “Early Influence” in their first induction ceremony in 1986. Advance tickets can be purchased online at www.louisianacrossroads.org or at the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana on the second floor of Central School. The office is open Mon.-Fri., and closes during the noon hour. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. CALCASIEU PARISH JUNIOR LIVESTOCK SHOW JAN. 20-22 The Calcasieu Parish Jr. Livestock Show is the culmination of 4-H participants’ yearlong care of animal projects. 4-H members will exhibit their pigs, sheep, goats, beef, rabbit, and poultry projects at Burton Coliseum during the shows. The following weekend, Jan. 30, they will sell their market animals in the Coliseum, which is open to the public. The events will be held from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., and admission is free. For more information, call (337) 475-8812. GEORGE RODRIGUE EXHIBIT AT ICM STARTING JAN. 21 The Imperial Calcasieu Museum presents “George Rodrigue: Blue Dogs and Cajuns” at the Gibson-Barham Gallery. The opening reception of his statewide art tour will be held on Fri., Jan. 21 from 7-9 p.m. A gallery talk will be presented by the artist and refreshments will be served. The exhibit is courtesy of the New Orleans Museum of Art, and will run until March 4. For more information, call the ICM at 439-3797. STARK MUSEUM HOSTS GREAT EXPLORERS FAMILY DAY JAN. 22 The Stark Museum of Art in Orange, Texas invites families to attend Great Explorers Family Day on Sat., Jan. 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event will feature artists who went on expeditions throughout the American West to explore and document its beauty. A highlight will be a visit from the Texas Camel Corps, allowing visitors to see live camels up close. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome. At Great Explorers Family Day, guests will be entertained with a story about Thomas Moran, one of the famous explorerartists of the American West. Also, children can search for clues during a scavenger hunt in the galleries to win a prize. Families will have the opportunity to try hands-on art activities. The Family Day event will include refreshments for those in attendance. Located at 712 Green Avenue in Orange,
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Texas, the Stark Museum of Art is open to the public Tues. – Sat. from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free. Group tours are available by appointment. For more information, call (409) 886-ARTS (2787) or visit www.starkmuseum.org ‘FAIRY TALE ART’ EXHIBIT AT HISTORIC CITY HALL STARTING JAN. 28 The City of Lake Charles will host a new traveling exhibition entitled “Fairy Tale Art, Illustrations from Children’s Books,” curated by Sylvia Nissley. The public is invited to the opening reception Fri., Jan. 28 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Historic 1911 City Hall Arts & Cultural Center at 1001 Ryan Street. All ages are welcome and refreshments will be served. The exhibition will run through March 26. The exhibit features 59 original illustrations from well-loved classic fairy tales as well as modern variations on traditional tales. The artworks reflect a variety of mediums such as watercolor, acrylic, colored pencil, and mixed media. The magical settings for the stories are created by award winning artists. “Fairy Tale Art” offers a magic journey to a timeless, enchanted, dream-like world. Historic 1911 City Hall Arts and Cultural Center is open Mon.Fri., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. For more information, please call 4919147 or visit www.cityoflakecharles.com.
‘MOSES AND THE BURNING WITHIN’ JAN. 28 Our Lady Queen of Heaven Music Ministry presents “Moses and the burning within.” Adapted from the Book of Exodus by renowned composer David Kauffman, the twoact musical includes 19 songs, which span from Moses’ birth to the crossing of the Red Sea. Members of Our Lady Queen of Heaven’s Family Choir, New Covenant Choir and Life Teen Choir will be performing under the direction of Collette Tanner, Sr. Camille Martinez and Gretchen Jester. Performances will take place 7 p.m., Fri., Jan. 28 and Sat., Jan. 29, at the Ralph Squire’s Auditorium at McNeese State University. Tickets cost $10 and can be purchased at Crossroads on Prien Lake Road or at the OLQH Church Office. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Jerry Crews Music Scholarship awarded by the OLQH Music Ministry. “Moses” is appropriate for all ages. For more information, contact Ann Marshall at (337) 477-1236.
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Fairy Tale Art Volume 2 • Issue 20
Leslie B e four dec rman’s career in ades, an music folksing er, mus d includes stin spans ic teach ts as a booker, e c tival dir oncert promote r, coffeehouse r e notes w ctor, music jou , publicist, fesr r nalist, a it e r , a organiz ation p rtist manager lbum r , trade e ment a ttorney, sident, e n t ertaina nd pres Music id M Louisian useum of ent of the S musicall a. She prefers outhwest 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 o h m. w sisters ily’s t u o b a m a n into z and heir fa line. It turn t ana mansio g Eric Stol that film d n o c n r i se e Louis ouse, starri h. 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Volume 2 • Issue 20
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To list your event e-mail: lauren@thejambalayanews.com
The
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12 • Alvin Touchet @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. • TBA @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 7:30 p.m. • Eric Lindell @ The Porch, 9 p.m. THURSDAY, JANUARY 13 • T-Joe Romero @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • TBA @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 7:30 p.m. • The Stark Experiment @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Tru Soul @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. • Andrew David @ The Porch, 9 p.m. • Willis Prudhomme @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • Kirk Holder @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m. FRIDAY, JANUARY 14 • Felton LeJeune & The Cajun Cowboys @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • In Liquid/Looks That Kill @ Luna Bar & Grill, 8 p.m. • High Performance @ Yesterday’s, 8 p.m. • TBA @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 8 p.m. • Three Legged Dawg @ Texas Longhorn Club, Vinton, 8 p.m. • David Porter @ L’Auberge Event Center, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 8:30 p.m. • Tru Soul @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m.
• Whiskey South @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • The Kadillacs @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. • Lipstick Blonde @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • The Kickback @ Ground Zero, DeRidder, 9:30 p.m. • Beer For Breakfast @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m. SATURDAY, JANUARY 15 • Joe Simon & Louisiana Cajun @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Creole Soul @ Yesterday’s, 8 p.m. • TBA @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 8 p.m. • David Porter @ L’Auberge Event Center, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 8:30 p.m. • Melanie Covington @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Devon Allman’s Honeytribe @ The Porch, 9 p.m. • Victor Olston/Irene & The Sleepers @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • Phil Work & Southwind @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. • Lipstick Blonde @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • Research Turtles/The Widowers @ Luna Bar & Grill, 10 p.m. • Beer For Breakfast @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 16 • David Porter @ L’Auberge Event Center, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 2 p.m. • Geno Delafosse & French Rockin’ Boogie @ Yesterday’s, 6 p.m. • Brian McKnight @ Delta Event Center, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. • Melanie Covington @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19 • Alvin Touchet @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. • TBA @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY, JANUARY 20 • The Hotel Cazin Band @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • TBA @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 7:30 p.m. • Jam Sandwich @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Bernie Alan @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. • Johnny Nicholas & Friends @ The Porch, 9 p.m. • Muzic Unlimited @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • Greg Talmage @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21 • Al Roger & Louisiana Pride @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Fight the Quiet @ Ground Zero, DeRidder, 8 p.m. • DJ Dance @ Yesterday’s, 8 p.m. • TBA @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 8 p.m. • Bernie Alan @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m.
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Volume 2 • Issue 20
• Huey Lewis @ L’Auberge Event Center, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, 8:30 p.m. • Steve Riley & The Mamou Playboys @ The Porch, 9 p.m. • The Vespers @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • Large Marge/Black Feratu/Conquer the Throne @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • Ridin’ High @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. • No Idea @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • DJ Cage @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m.
• Dry Water @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. • No Idea @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • DJ Cage @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 22 • Wasting the Day @ Ground Zero, DeRidder, 5 p.m. • Briggs Brown & The Bayou Cajuns @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Damon Troy & Final Five @ Yesterday’s, 8 p.m. • TBA @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 8 p.m. • Bernie Alan @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Mia Borders @ The Porch, 9 p.m. • Matthew Moss/Iberville High Life @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 27 • Travis Benoit & Allons Dancer @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • TBA @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 7:30 p.m. • Brad Brinkley & Comfort Zone @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • Groove Inc. @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m. • Iberville High Life @ The Porch, 9 p.m. • Bernie Alan @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m.
The Lake Charles League of Women Voters BE A FAN! Look for Lake Charles League of Women Voters on Facebook. Check us out for up to date LWV news, information and events that affect you and your community.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 23 • Foret Tradition @ Yesterday’s, 6 p.m. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26 • Alvin Touchet @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. • TBA @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 7:30 p.m.
• The Floyds @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28 • Lesa Cormier & The Sundown Playboys @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Wayne Toups @ Yesterday’s, 8 p.m. • TBA @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 8 p.m. • Groove Inc. @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8:30 p.m. • Matt Moss & Cory Fontenot @ The Porch, 9 p.m. • Bearfighter/The Tequila Party/Kill Icarus @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • AF The Naysayer/Truth Universal @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m. • LA Express @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. • Odyssey @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 9 p.m. • HipBootJoe @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge du Lac, 10 p.m.
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NEW KITCHEN HOURS: Mon. - Tues. 11 am - 10 pm Wed. - Sat.11 am - 11 pm Closed Sunday
LUNA GOODS ON SALE: Luna Classic Tee $15 Luna Guitar Tee $15 Luna Ball Cap $15 Luna Dressings $6 (16oz.) Citrus Vinaigrette Balsamic Vinaigrette Raspberry Vinaigrette Cosmic 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. Jan. 14 @ 9 pm VAGABOND SWING Sat. Jan. 15 @ 9 pm RESEARCH TURTLES W/ THE WIDOWERS Fri. Jan. 21 @ 9 pm J. WESLEY HAYNES TRIO Sat. Jan. 22 @ 9 pm IBERVILLE HIGH LIFE
Want to join the League? Find out how at www.lwv-lc.org or email info@lwv-lc.org or call 474-1864 and leave a message.
Volume 2 • Issue 20
Fri. Jan. 28 @ 9 pm HONKY W/ THE LOADED 44RZ Sat. Jan. 29 @ 9 pm IDLE OF THE PEACH
JANUARY 13, 2011
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