The Jambalaya News - Vol. 3 No. 13

VOL. 3, NO. 13 / SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

One Stop Shopping at Bella’s Bridal • Spice Up Your Life Bridal Makeover!

Jeff Davis Parish: SWLA’s Best-kept Secret

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

Volume 3 • Issue 13

GENERAL 715 Kirby St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 www.thejambalayanews.com

contents 25 Treasures of Marilyn’s

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CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Addison Leslie Berman George Cline James Doyle Dan Ellender Mike McHugh Candice Pauley Mary Louise Ruehr Brandon Shoumaker Karla Tullos ADVERTISING sales@thejambalayanews.com

SALES ASSOCIATES Katy Corbello Faye Drake Lindy George Karla Tullos GRAPHICS ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Darrell Buck BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kay Andrews

September 22, 2011 • Volume 3 • Issue 13

COVER STORY

PUBLISHER Phil de Albuquerque NEWS EXECUTIVE EDITOR Lauren de Albuquerque

On Cover: Marilyn Vallee Dawdy and Marion Elizabeth Dawdy

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The Boiling Pot Tips from Tip The Dang Yankee Doyle’s Place What’s Cookin’ Adoption Corner Sports Report

FEATURES 5 COR Foundation 15 Jeff Davis Parish: SWLA’s Best-kept Secret 22 Bayou Biz: Bella’s Bridals 30 Hair Tips for Your Big Day 32 Wedding Gifts for Your Bridal Party 34 Spice Up Your Life Bridal Makeover

ENTERTAINMENT 36 40 42 44 48 52 54 55

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

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 3 • Issue 13

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We are now accepting credit cards!

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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A Note From Lauren I’m Still Here

Someone said there are two things that you can’t avoid: death and taxes.

That person forgot all about birthdays.

As long as you’re on this planet, you have a birthday every year.

There’s no way of getting around it.

You can refuse to acknowledge it, but it happens all the same. You’re another year older, and probably not much wiser.

The reason this is uppermost in my mind is because I just had a birthday. Time is certainly marching on.

Why does it rush by so fast when we get older? Why did it drag so much when we were kids?

I remember being in the first grade and looking up at the big eighth graders running down the stairs at the end of the school day, and thinking it would be forever before I made it to that level. It did take forever. It eventually happened, but there were all those quizzes and tests and fire drills and piles of homework to get through, all the queasy feelings in the pit of my stomach when I knew I wasn’t prepared for a test or didn’t get all my homework done. All the praying and saints’ stories and jingling coins to buy pagan

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babies and learning hymns, which started with Sister blowing on the pitch pipe that she always kept in the voluminous pockets of her habit.

God, those days seemed endless.

Now, they just whoosh by. I spent seven months preparing for my wedding and 11 years have flown by. I never complain about Monday, because in the blink of an eye, it’s Friday. I plan for a vacation in a few months and the next thing I know, I’m packing my suitcase. I get through with one deadline here at The Jam, and there’s another one right behind it. Pretty scary. Time is marching on, dragging all of us with it.

So I had another birthday, and I didn’t really want it, but I had no choice. There it was. I made the best of it. Got together with friends, had a great meal and a lot of laughs. I know I have a lot to be thankful for.

And I started reminiscing about birthdays past.

Growing up in our three-decker in East Boston, I never had a birthday to myself. That’s because my cousin Richard was born Sept. 12, his sister Karen was born Sept. 13, and I was born Sept. 16. So every year, we would have a joint birthday party.

One cake for the three of us.

It never bothered me. I actually liked sharing my birthday with my cousins. It was fun. We’re all Virgos and always got along great. I do think it’s pretty interesting that we were all born so close to one another. I guess there was a lot of celebrating in the house on Christmas, if you get my drift.

I had my very first birthday to myself because baby’s first birthday is a big deal. After that, it was all for one, and one for all. I remember turning six. There’s a home movie of all of us jumping around in the den trying to do the twist to Chubby Checker’s hit song. Karen was 12 and she was wearing a Dr. Kildare shirt (does anyone remember the TV series starring Richard Chamberlain?) and she could twist all the way to the floor. Richard had lost his front teeth and every time he laughed he looked like a jack-olantern. I was wearing a pleated plaid skirt and kept running in front of the camera to show off the gifts that I had received.

When I turned seven, my father’s sister Rosa was visiting us from Italy.

It was my turn to lose my front teeth

and to top it off, I’d been given a really ugly haircut (a “pixie cut,” I think my mother called it. Or maybe it was a Beatles cut, since I believe they had just released their first album, Meet the Beatles, which I received as a gift). Whatever it was, it wasn’t very flattering on me, so I thought I was a really homely birthday girl. I think my aunt left for Rome the night of my birthday, so after the party we rushed to Logan Airport and put her on a plane back to the old country.

We celebrated our birthdays on picnics, at our family’s little weekend home out in the country northwest of Boston, and in restaurants when we got older. When I turned 16, I remember having that birthday all to myself when our neighbors, the DeMatteos, had a party for me in their basement complete with incense, black lights, the Moody Blues and lots of underage drinking.

We all lived in the neighborhood and everyone was on foot, so there were no drunk driving worries. Those were the days.

So another birthday has come and gone. The bad news is I’m another year older; the good news is I’m still here. And that’s worth celebrating.

TJN

Volume 3 • Issue 13

By Candice Pauley The American Cancer Society’s 2011 Surveillance Report shows that 1 in 12 men and 1 in 11 women in the United States will develop some form of invasive cancer between the ages of 40 and 59. The likelihood increases as a person ages.

Retirees on Medicare pay higher co-pays and deductibles for cancer care than past generations due to cuts in Medicare funding. The gap between what insurance covers and what the individual must pay can be enormous depending on treatment type and length.

The patient may be responsible for up to $40,000 over the course of treatment.

That amount can seem insurmountable for some, and may prevent individuals from seeking care.

The Community Oncology Resources Foundation (COR Foundation) in Lake Charles hopes to bridge the gap between insurance and personal expenses.

Unlike the ACS, all of the COR Foundation’s fundraising efforts benefit individuals in the Lake Charles area.

“We’re different from the American Cancer Society in that we are local, and all money we raise stays local,” said LeNae Goolsby, senior executive director of the COR Foundation.

Run entirely by volunteers, the Foundation’s overhead is minimal, allowing the money raised to go directly to the organization’s mission of assisting selected individuals with the cost of treatment.

LeNae Goolsby Volume 3 • Issue 13

Cancer Treatment Financially Crippling Because cancer treatment can be financially crippling, more and more people are opting out of care, and money is not the only cost. Local oncologists are unable to keep their doors open.

“The trend we are seeing now is that several independent oncologists are either going into a hospital employee setting, or taking early retirement and closing their doors. We’re starting to see more rural areas losing access to care,” Goolsby said.

“Not only do you see physicians leaving community oncology, and leaving patients stranded without access to care, but we’re actually starting to see patients who are not going ahead with care, and choosing to opt out of care, not because they want to but because they can’t afford to or they have no way to get to the centers that are offering care (like MD Anderson in Houston),” she added.

The Foundation’s Goals The Foundation has several long-term goals, but the immediate need is in assisting patients with the cost of care. Currently they have the ability to assist six patients a year. Since the beginning of the Foundation a year ago, two individuals received assistance, allowing them to remain in care and maintain their health. Due to confidentiality reasons, neither wished to discuss their involvement with the Foundation.

Each person requesting assistance must submit an application that takes into consideration income, living situation, income-to-debt ratio, and necessary treatment. The applications are then presented to the Foundation’s board of directors and voted on. The cost of care is paid directly to the provider.

“Our focus is currently on Calcasieu parish because our funding is centered here. But our goal is to reach out across the state of Louisiana,” Goolsby explained.

The COR Foundation does more than assist individuals seeking cancer treatment.

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“We are working towards being able to bring in technologies to community oncologists in the area that may not already be available in Lake Charles. If there was a particular technology that had come out where we would have to send someone to Houston, our goal at the Foundation would be to bring that technology here so that people can stay here,” Goolsby said.

By making new and emerging technology available in rural areas, the Foundation increases access to care for patients with limited resources who cannot travel out of town for treatment.

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“We also have a tuition assistance/reimbursement program for nurses who seek to get oncology-specific training,” Goolsby said.

Heather Duhon, a recipient of the foundation’s tuition assistance, would not have been able to return to school without the scholarship program.

“It was a great opportunity. There are not many organizations in our community that offer a program like that,” Duhon said. “Working with the [Oncology and Hematology] Institute, I really like what I do. I would not have had a chance to continue my education without the Foundation.”

Individuals currently make up the donor base for the Foundation.

However, the organization is looking into corporate and grant funding.

The Foundation plans to double the number of individuals they can assist to 12 a year.

Odds are, nearly everyone has been affected by cancer on some level. Whether it’s been a family member, friend, loved one, or a personal battle, most people have experienced the shock of a cancer diagnosis. Treatment is a long and complicated road with few guarantees. The added stress of exorbitant bills on top

of the diagnosis, treatment, illness, and the struggle of battling cancer can become overwhelming.

The COR Foundation is dedicated to making that stress a bit less for as many individuals as their budget allows. Volunteer opportunities exist with the Foundation. If you would like to donate, volunteer, or learn more about the programs provided by the COR Foundation, visit their website at www.corfoundation.com or call (337) 312-8411. You can also find them on Facebook and on Twitter (@CORFoundation). TJN

Volume 3 • Issue 13

The

Boiling

P l

Please submit press releases to lauren@thejambalayanews.com

L’AUBERGE HIRES NEW VP OF CASINO OPERATIONS L’Auberge Casino Resort recently announced that Gary Stella will join the property as its vice president of casino operations. Stella most recently worked at the corporate level for Pinnacle Entertainment, parent company to L’Auberge, where he has been assisting with companywide Table Games issues since February. In his new role, Stella will oversee all slot, table games and Poker Room operations. He will be responsible for delivering memorable guest service for casino customers, for team member engagement and for overall daily operational excellence. Stella has over 20 years of experience in the gaming industry.

Left to right: Lanny Young, co-chair, Fundraising Committee, Rebuilding Millennium Park; David Rentrop, operations director of GRACE Davison, Kay Barnett, Rebuilding Millennium Park chair; and Lake Charles Mayor Randy Roach.

GRACE DAVISON DONATES TO MILLENNIUM PARK REBUILD At the Sept. 13 Lake Charles City Council Agenda Meeting, GRACE Davison presented a check for $10,000 to the City of Lake Charles and Rebuilding Millennium Park Committee in support of the Rebuilding Millennium Park project. The community-build dates are Oct. 26-30 and Nov. 2-6. Individuals, families or businesses/organizations can volunteer by going to the City’s website at www.cityoflakecharles.com, clicking on the homepage Rebuilding Millennium Park logo and printing, filling out, and mailing, faxing or e-mailing the appropriate volunteer form. The individuals/families form can also be filled out on-line, or picked up at the first floor lobby of City Hall, 326 Pujo St. or at any Calcasieu Parish library.

TED P. HARLESS, JR. ACHIEVES NAIFA AWARD Ted P. Harless Jr., managing director of Northwestern Mutual-Lake Charles has received the Manager’s Membership Award from the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA). This award recognizes managers and organizations that support a strong financial services industry by investing in NAIFA and its efforts.

Ted P. Harless, Jr. FIRST NATIONAL BANK IN DERIDDER OPENS MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICE IN LC First National Bank in DeRidder announces the opening of their Mortgage Loan Office located in Lake Charles at 1180 East McNeese Street, Suite A7.

The office provides financing services for residential, refinancing and new construction. For more information, call 310-0940.

Volume 3 • Issue 13

Gary Stella

HOLT NAMED VP AND SENIOR LENDING OFFICER WITH FIRST NATIONAL BANK IN DERIDDER First National Bank in DeRidder recently named William J. “Justin” Holt as vice president and senior lending officer. Holt was named assistant vice president in July 2009 and has served as a mortgage specialist with First National Bank since July 2008. Holt offers an extensive background in VA, FHA, rural housing and conventional loan products. As senior lending officer, William J. Holt Holt’s responsibilities include supervision of all lending, including commercial, consumer and mortgage lending, as well as assisting bank customers with finding the right loan for their income and lifestyle. Holt is in the main office of First National Bank in DeRidder at 131 North Washington Street. He can be reached by calling (337) 463-6231.

SMITH JOINS SWLA ALLIANCE STAFF R.B. Smith recently joined the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance staff as its vice president of Workforce Development. On Aug. 31, 2011, he retired as the vice chancellor for Economic Development at SOWELA Technical Community College. Smith holds associate and bachelor of science degrees from McNeese and a master of science degree R.B. Smith from LSU. He served on the Chamber SWLA’s Technology Council, Small Business Committee, the Economic Development Network Committee, and Education/Workforce Development Committee to identify and address workforce development needs of employers in our area.

ARTS COUNCIL DISTRIBUTES MONEY TO LOCAL AGENCIES The Arts & Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana, Regional Distributing Agency for the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Decentralized Arts SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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Funding Program, is pleased to announce its 2011 - 2012 grant awards. A total of $74,068 will be distributed for activities in SWLA. The Arts Funding Program makes the arts available in all areas of the state by giving people in each parish the opportunity to develop arts programs that meet their local needs. This year, a total of 35 organizations in Calcasieu, Cameron, Allen, Beauregard, and Jefferson Davis Parishes were awarded funding. Some of the recipients include: Lake Charles Civic Ballet; The Lake Charles Symphony; The Black Heritage Festival; Artists Civic Theatre & Studio (ACTS); A Block off Broadway; Bulber Youth Orchestra; Lake Charles Community Band; and The Cajun French Music Association, just to name a few. For more information on this grant or other grant related opportunities, contact the Arts Council at (337) 439-2787.

Left to right: Bill Hankins, WCCH CEO, Janice Ackley, AHA regional director, Sulphur Mayor Chris Duncan and State Representative Mike Danahay

The exhibit will feature the works of more than fifty local artist in twelve charming venues including Gallery by the Lake, Stellar Beans, Children’s Museum, 1911 Historic City Hall, Historic Central School, The Frame House and Gallery, Imperial Calcasieu Museum, Abercrombie Gallery, The Porch, Harrington Gallery, Henning Cultural Center, and Louviere Fine Art.

HEART ASSOCIATION NAMES WCCH AS FIT-FRIENDLY COMPANY The American Heart Association recognized West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital as a Gold Level Start! Fit-Friendly Company at its annual SWLA Heart Walk Kickoff luncheon recently. WCCH was recognized for its efforts at promoting physical activity and health in the workplace. Start! Fit-Friendly companies reach Gold Level status by implementing various activities and programs to encourage physical activity, nutrition and culture enhancements such as on-site walking routes, healthy food choices in cafeterias and vending machines, annual employee health risk assessments and online tracking tools.

For a complete list of artists and locations, visit www.artsandhumanitiesswla.org or call 439-2787.

The night will also offer trolley rides courtesy of the City of Lake Charles, and a Italian ARTISAN pizza tasting and wine pairing in Historic Central School’s plaza provided by Domino’s.

Dan L. Donald, Jr., chairman and CEO for Jeff Davis Bank, Richard Reid, executive VP of the McNeese State University Foundation, and Dr. Philip C. Williams, McNeese president. McNeese photo MSU RECEIVES DONATION FROM JEFF DAVIS BANK MSU has received ownership of the building and land that housed the former Racca Processing and Specialty Meats facility in Lacassine. Funds to purchase the property came from a $775,000 Louisiana Hurricane Recovery/ Economic Development Grant and a $110,000 donation from Jeff Davis Bank.

The facility will undergo renovations and be used to expand the Harold and Pearl Dripps Agricultural Sciences Department at McNeese.

FINCHUM JOINS ALLSTATE INSURANCE COMPANY IN IOWA Allstate Insurance Company announces Misty Rutherford Finchum as their new exclusive insurance agent in Iowa. She owns and operates the fullservice agency offering a complete line of products and services, including

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Volume 3 • Issue 13

auto, property, commercial and life insurance, longterm care and annuities. A graduate of McNeese State University and a native of DeRidder, Finchum currently serves as board member of the West Calcasieu Association of Commerce, executive secretary and charter member of the Lake Charles Elite Lions Club, board member of the Krewe de la Louisiane and member of the Calcasieu Historical Preservation Society.

The Misty Finchum Agency is located at 401 S. Thomson Ave. Office hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Mon.Fri. Finchum is looking forward to helping families Misty Rutherford insure and protect what they have today and prepare Finchum better for tomorrow. For more information, visit www.allstateagencies.com/MISTYFINCHUM or call (337) 582-1555.

The Calcasieu Community Clinic received $36,602.00 from James “Buddy” Caldwell. On hand for the presentation was Maurice Gold, pharmacy Ddrector for the Clinic, Kayla Rigney, executive director and Dr. Philip Williams, president of McNeese State University.

VISIT WWW.SALONW.BIZ

AG DISTRIBUTES SETTLEMENT FUNDS TO CALCASIEU COMMUNITY CLINIC Attorney General Buddy Caldwell recently announced the distribution of more than $620,000 in settlement funds to 12 registered charitable pharmacies across the state of Louisiana. The funds are part of multi-state settlements reached with Express Scripts, Inc., and Caremark Rx, L.L.C. for alleged violations of the Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law. Thanks to the efforts of the AG’s Consumer Protection Division, in coordination with other state attorneys general, Louisiana pursued this matter and joined in the multi-state litigation and received a portion of the settlement proceeds. The Calcasieu Community Clinic Pharmacy in Lake Charles was one of the recipients of the settlement funds. TJN

Check out our new and original costumes!

2619 Ryan St., Lake Charles

337-436 7812 Volume 3 • Issue 13

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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Volume 3 • Issue 13

Hector San Miguel Memorial Fund Seeking Nominations The Hector San Miguel Memorial Fund is now seeking nominations for the second annual award to be bestowed in the former American Press reporter’s honor.

In partnership with the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana, the goal is to bestow an annual award stipend for a recipient selected by the fund’s advisory board. The Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization that assists donors and philanthropists with their charitable giving, holds the fund in a field of interest endowment.

Award nominations are now being sought. Recipients must meet the following criteria: • Outstanding achievement in journalism and/or relentless pursuit of the truth.

• Must live in the five-parish region or their work shall have impacted Southwest Louisiana.

• Must be nominated in writing no later than October 15.

Written nominations, including a brief description of the candidates’ work, can be mailed to the attention of the Hector San Miguel Memorial Fund at the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana, PO Box 3125, Lake Charles, Louisiana 70602, sent via fax to (337) 491-6710, emailed to lverrette@foundationswla.org or delivered to any advisory board member. No clips, videos or other supporting material are to be submitted but contact information is requested for those making nominations.

The second annual Hector San Miguel Memorial Fund award recipient will be honored at a luncheon on Dec. 1 at L’Auberge du Lac. The honoree will receive a commemorative plaque and a cash stipend. National political analyst Charlie Cook will deliver the event’s keynote speech. Cook is editor and publisher of The Cook Political Report and columnist for the National Journal. Further details and ticket information will be released at a later date.

Hector lost his battle with leukemia in December 2009 at the age of 51. He is remembered as a passionate journalist, faithful friend and dedicated husband and father. Through hard-hitting investigative pieces, Hector earned Volume 3 • Issue 13

numerous state and regional awards and the position of City Editor at the American Press.

Anyone wishing to donate to the award fund may do so by contacting the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana (www.FoundationSWLA.org ), at (337) 491-6688 or lverrette@foundationswla.org. All donations are tax deductible. TJN

We Save Lives and Our Environment Everyday Through Science and Research.

Join Us and Buy at Wholesale. www.shaklee.net/patsnc

(337) 824-6765 or (337) 230-3598 Pat Landreneau, Nutrition Consultant Lake Charles & Jennings

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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By George “Tip” Cline

DIRE STRAITS After taking his children to an event, an out-of-town friend remarked on the cost of not only attending the event itself, but the prohibitive price of the souvenir items.

Our economy is in an unfortunate state, which makes it difficult for us to attend a lot of activities

nowadays. So many groups, businesses, associations, etc., are in such dire financial straits that there’s more pressure on those of us who want to support them. It’s the proverbial “rock and a hard place” where we are torn between the desire to support and the strain of what it will cost us.

Those of us who are not as financially constrained should try and keep those activities going until the economy allows others to do their part.

I could not help but feel for some of the families as I observed

an ice cream truck coming through the park recently, with the tunes from the loudspeaker drawing the attention of the little ones to the lure of treats. The pressure is on when one child gets the goody. We all want to provide the best for our families, but there are limitations to the wallet’s ability to supply it.

Make sure that you don’t make the have-nots feel embarrassed—it could happen to you someday.

USS ORLECK NEEDS A HOME I recently attended a presentation by members of the group supporting the USS Orleck (DD-886) Museum.

Built in Orange, Texas at the very end of WWII, the ship’s participation in the Korean War gained fame and many awards as the “Train Buster” which patrolled the North Korean coast at night, firing shells into the supply trains coming south with provisions for the North Korean Army.

Later, in Vietnam, the Orleck was credited with firing more shells than any other ship in the Navy. It was said that the troops loved the Navy shelling, as they knew where their rounds would land.

The Orleck is temporarily located at 604 N. Enterprise Blvd. on the Calcasieu River and is open for tours and various events. The Orleck group is in search of a permanent berthing for the ship, and has recently begun talks with the Isle of Capri Casino, where the ship may find its home.

This location would be a winwin-win situation, as the casino would have a historic family attraction, the area would gain additional tourism and the Orleck would have a very secure future. Let’s all hope that we wind up with another feather in our collective cap.

GALLERY PROMENADE SEPT. 30 The annual Lake Charles Gallery Promenade will take place on Fri., Sept. 30, from 5-9 p.m. with more than a dozen different locations in Lake Charles, Moss Bluff, Sulphur, and at McNeese State University.

Many locations will have refreshments available for the wandering art lovers, with Central School featuring a pizza tasting. There will also be a trolley in Downtown Lake Charles for transportation. It has been a fun and fruitful event for many years, and will make for a great Friday night for those families that enjoy the arts.

SUPERMARKET ROUNDUP Our shopping report is for Wed., Sept. 14. The stores are Albertsons, Country Club Road; Kroger, McNeese Street; Market Basket, Lake Street and Walmart, Nelson Road.

Celery, per stalk: Albertsons, $1; Kroger, $1.47; Market Basket, $.99; Walmart, $1.38.

Shake N Bake, Original Chicken, 5.5 oz box: Albertsons, $2.29; Kroger, $2.29; Market Basket, $2.55; Walmart, $1.63.

Pork Tenderloin, per pound: Albertsons, $4.99; Kroger, $3.99; Market Basket, $5.39; Walmart, $4.48.

Ragu Traditional Pasta Sauce, 1 lb. 8 oz. jar: Albertsons, $1.99 (1 lb. 10 oz. jar); Kroger, $1.76; Market Basket, $2.45; Walmart, $1.68.

Again, we see a spread in the prices with a variety of best values.

TJN PAGE 12

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Volume 3 • Issue 13

Dang Yankee

Sponsored by

The

By Mike McHugh

barred all residents of the state from entering the country. I won’t go into details about what we actually did that night, because I don’t want to bring embarrassment on my travelling companions. (In my case, such behavior is expected.) Let’s just say that it involved, in part, the use of chandeliers.

I came upon many other realizations as well, including the fact that Mexico is still inundated by pirates; only today, they exist in the form of time-share salesmen. Yet all in all, I’d have to say we had many captivating

experiences during our visit. I’ll report on some of the more colorful ones in my next installment. After reading about them, I’m sure that many of you will also yearn to make your own excursions South of the border. If so, don’t worry; I’m sure the sanctions will be lifted eventually, maybe after they’ve seen certified copies of our respective death certificates. Then, when that day finally comes, you, too, can proclaim, in the immortal words of John F. Kennedy (with a Southern accent): “Ich bin ein Yankee!” TJN

In Mexico, We’re All Yankees Hundreds of years ago, pirates frequented the waters off the coast of Mexico. Laden with plunder, they came to seek refuge from the pursuit of warships that sailed under the flag of the Spanish Crown. Still to this day, Mexico retains its reputation as a haven for brigands seeking to elude the authorities, although the pirates have long been replaced by hedge fund managers fleeing the IRS. I travelled recently to Mexico with a group of friends whose aim was to re-live the country’s age-old swashbuckling tradition. For us, however, setting sail across the Gulf under the skull and crossbones, risking life and limb on the treacherous waters at the height of hurricane season, was simply not a practical option. This was because we had brought our wives along, and there would not have been enough room in the cargo hold for all of their shoes. So instead, we opted for an even more precarious form of transport: flying on a commercial airline.

I am convinced that if pirates had operated their vessels the way they do a modern day airline, the pirating trade would have never got off the ground. Sure, pirates had to live aboard ship in close quarters, sometimes two or three to a hammock in the midst of reeking bilge, but that is like sailing on a luxury yacht compared to what airline passengers must endure.

There, the seating is so tight that one must have the agility of Houdini to be able to get up to go to the bathroom, and if the person in front has his seat reclined, even Houdini would be out of luck when nature called.

What’s more, on a pirate ship, members of the crew had unlimited access to the rum barrel whenever they had the urge for a little nip. If the ship Volume 3 • Issue 13

were run like a modern airline, however, they would have had to wait below decks for the cabin boy to come along with the grog cart, which he would do only in calm waters akin to a bathtub, at which time he would accept pieces of eight only, in exact change.

Nevertheless, our dashing troupe survived the excruciating voyage, even after the rapid descent that made our ears feel as if they had been packed with quick-set concrete. It was my first visit to Mexico, and it was not long before I had a startling realization. It came as a pleasant surprise to me, for it turns out that people in Mexico do not make any distinction among Americans based on which part of the country we come from.

Whether one hails from New Orleans or New York, as far as Mexicans are concerned, we are all Yankees. Yes, latitude is a Great Equalizer.

It did not matter to the locals how many in our party were proudly wearing LSU T-shirts. This is because—and I know it will come as a complete shock to most of you—most Mexicans have never even heard of LSU. The name simply does not strike fear into their hearts as it would someone from, say, Oregon. You might as well be a fan of Slippery Rock State up in Pennsylvania; it’s all the same to them. As far as they’re concerned, it’s just American football, which they seem to find about as exciting as watching accountants practice their balance sheets.

I know that this fact will probably discourage most Louisianans from visiting Mexico, but as it turns out, that’s just as well. That’s because, after our group’s behavior the first night at the resort’s five-star restaurant, the Mexican government has indefinitely SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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oyle

By Jim D

Counting My Blessings I wonder what a good week looks like. Been a while since I’ve had one. The energy required to put on a happy face without feeling it has pretty well worn me down. Sorry to lay this on you, folks, but it’s time for a Job column again.

You remember Job. God was good to him, gave him a large

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family, a large and lucrative farm, good health, a beautiful wife. But God, as in The Divine Comedy, turns him over to Satan and says he can do anything he wants to Job except kill him. Because God believed nothing could destroy Job’s faith.

These days, we all have faith in something or someone, a higher

or lower power, our work, our money. Something. But when you get right down to it, as the great line from The Big Chill unforgettably told us: “We’re all alone out there. And tomorrow, we’re going out there again.”

The saga of Job ends, of course, with God restoring his blessings one by one. And at this point as I end the day, it’s a helpful thing to remind myself of the blessings I do have. You would do well to do the same thing regardless of your condition.

Health is number one. Those of you without health problems, thank your lucky stars, because without it every day becomes a fight for your life.

Home is right up there. So many people in the world have none.

Judging by the folks I see on the street, not too many of us are going hungry.

If you have someone you love, hold onto them with all your heart and all your might. Relationships are hard, but loneliness is harder.

Friends cannot be replaced and are not fungible. I am extremely lucky to have many good friends and hope to make more.

Good work to do, in a comfortable place, is a constant blessing for me. Thanks to all my faithful clients for hanging in there.

As you can probably tell by now, I’m hurting. I won’t go into the boring specifics, because they don’t matter anyway. Tonight, and last night, too, I had a chance to hear very loving words from two good friends, as it happens, both from Tennessee. They both helped me keep things in perspective.

I want to thank all of you for reading this little exercise over the years. I’m hoping I’ll have happier things to write about in the future.

In the meantime, if you see me on the street, give me a nod and a shake, and keep me in your prayers always.

See ya on the flip. TJN

Volume 3 • Issue 13

What’s the best-kept secret of Southwest Louisiana? It’s Jeff Davis Parish and it’s the place to be for peaceful living, growing businesses, Southern hospitality, family festivals, outdoor fun and great food.

Jeff Davis Parish has a population of approximately 31,000. It’s comprised of five incorporated municipalities: Elton, Fenton, Jennings, Lake Arthur and Welsh, along with

several unincorporated areas that include Hathaway, Lacassine, Roanoke, Thornwell and Woodlawn.

HISTORY The earliest settlers were Native Americans who made their homes along the lakes and bayous. They were eventually joined by Acadians who were expelled from Nova Scotia in the 1700s. The Civil War years

brought soldiers from various states into Southwest Louisiana. Many remained after the war due to the Homestead Act. In 1901, the first oil well in the state was established not far from the area, ushering in a thriving oil and gas industry. Add agricultural development to the mix and you have a recipe for success that encouraged both economic and resi-

dential growth.

Jeff Davis Parish as we know it was originally a part of Imperial Calcasieu Parish, but in 1912, it became a separate entity, making it one of the last parishes in Louisiana to be incorporated. It was named for Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederate States of America. Ten years later, Jennings was selected to be the parish seat.

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PAGE 15

JEFF DAVIS CULTURE/ ATTRACTIONS There’s a lot to see and do in the Parish. Don’t miss the Welsh Museum, which features more than 500 copies of historic photographs and an assortment of memorabilia of the history of the Welsh community.

There’s even an antique grocery store adjacent to the museum that provides plenty of information for tourists. The Welsh Museum is open Tues. – Fri. from 10 a.m. – noon and 2-4 p.m. Call (337) 734-3811 for more information.

One of the best art galleries between New Orleans and Houston is the Zigler Museum in Jennings.

The original collection started with a mere 20 pieces and has grown to over 200 pieces of European and American art. It includes sculptures, American art glass, wildlife dioramas, and more. In addition, the museum offers rotating exhibits of guest artists, along with an excep-

PAGE 16

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

tional Christmas tree exhibit during the holiday season. The Zigler Museum is located at 411 Clara St. and is open Tues. – Sat., 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sun., 1 – 4 p.m. For more information, call (337) 824-0114.

The Strand Theater is located along Jennings’ historic Main Street.

This three-story, art deco-style movie theatre is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and was built in the 1930s. The entertainment focal point in the area for many years, it operated into the 1960s. After several closings and reopenings, it’s used today by the local theatre troupe, A Block Off Broadway. Started in 1993, the theatre group performs regularly at The Strand. Another regular is the Freddie Pate Jamboree, which takes the stage the last Saturday of every month. The Strand Theatre is located at 432 N. Main St. Call (337) 8215509 for more information.

Take a journey back in time with a visit to the WH Tupper General

Volume 3 • Issue 13

★ Patrol zones for faster response times. ★ Create a new cold casse file team. ★ Form a SWAT and narcotics team.

Merchandising Museum. It offers a glimpse of nearly every facet of early 20th century life in rural Louisiana.

In 1910, WH Tupper opened his general store north of Jennings.

When he closed his doors in 1949, the complete inventory remained on the shelves until 1971, when the items were warehoused. His grandson eventually donated the store’s contents, and the museum was born.

The Coushatta Indians, who still live north of Jennings in the town of Elton, once brought their pine needle baskets to the store to trade for food and other merchandise. Many of these prized examples of Native Indian basketry are displayed throughout the Tupper store today.

The museum is located at 311 No. Main St. in Jennings and is open Mon.- Fri. from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

FABULOUS FESTIVALS Louisiana is noted for the fabulous family festivals, and Jeff Davis

Parish is no exception. It hosts many annual festivals and events, including:

★ Reform a better reserve division. ★ Provide school resource deputies for our schools. ★ Establish a drug court to take users out of our jails and

• Welsh Coming Home Festival • Jennings Mardi Gras Fest and Parade • Lake Arthur Mardi Gras Mini Festival and Parade • Elton’s Children’s Mardi Gras Celebration • Stars and Stripes Celebration • Roastin’ with Rosie BBQ Festival • Jeff Davis Parish Fair • Stearman Fly-In • Jennings Alive Arts and Crafts Festival • Jennings Christmas Festival Gumbo Cook-off • Lake Arthur Hall of Trees • Holiday Magic Shopping Spree • Lake Arthur Christmas Fest and Parade with Fireworks • Zigler Museum Christmas Fest

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

place them in drug rehabilitation centers to vacate those empty spots for drug dealers.

Provide better schooling for our deputies.

Bring in a privately owned prison to create more jail space and also create jobs for our parish.

Create neighborhood watch programs to keep our neighborhoods safe.

Create friendly relationships between deputies and citizens.

Provide professional counselors for families who were victims of violent crimes within their families such as domestic abuse, rape, or death.

For the past twenty years we have watched our parish take a devastating turn from being a nice, safe place to live, to being a battlefield of drugs, violent crimes and unsolved homicides.

On October 22, 2011, lets elect a sheriff who has patrol experience, who’s been on that battlefield, who can reform our parish, and who can be a strong sheriff. That sheriff would be me.

Let’s make it happen.

Please Vote!!!

TJN

Paid for by Citizens to Elect Jesse Ewing

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

PAGE 17

Unsung Heroes of Vietnam Aug. 20 - Oct. 21, 2011 Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Oct. 14 - Oct. 16, 2011 at The Louisiana Oil & Gas Park ★ Fri., Oct. 14: Welcoming the Vietmam Traveling Memorial Wall “Unsung Heroes of Vietnam” at The Louisiana Oil & Gas Park 6:30 p.m. Sundown Program

★ Sat., Oct. 15:

2 p.m. Vietnam Veterans Parade of Honor, Downtown Jennings

4 p.m. Patriotic Ceremonies at The Louisiana Oil & Gas Park

★ Sun. Oct. 16:

6:30 p.m. Closing Ceremonies at The Louisiana Oil & Gas Park

Sponsored by Zigler Art Museum; The City of Jennings; VVA Chapter 215 Kinder, LA; and the Combat Vets Motorcycle Assoc.

PAGE 18

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

ZIGLER ART MUSEUM 411 Clara St. Jennings, LA (337) 824-0114

After working at a local dealership as an auto body repairman for several years, James Miller decided it was time to go into business for himself in 1976, mainly because one of his supervisors told him he would never make it.

Within two years, Miller’s Paint and Body Shop relocated to its current location at 17193 Hwy 102 in Jennings. In 1982, Miller added a wrecker service for the convenience of his clients.

Today, Miller’s Paint and Body Shop is the largest independent collision repair shop and has the only heated paint spray booth in Jeff Davis Parish. As an ASE-certified shop, Miller stands behind his work.

Miller’s Paint and Body Shop also offers MEGA-LINERS maintenancefree spray in bedliners, an advanced

polyurethane system that provides a highly durable, uniform non-slip coated protection to your truck bed.

It covers scratches and scrapes, enhancing the surface appearance, and can be used to repair or restore other types of sprayed-on liners.

Miller’s offers 24-hour wrecker service, body repair, painting and refinishing, frame straightening and expert color matching on all makes and model cars and trucks. They also offer custom work and auto glass installation.

Owners James Miller and son Justin and employees Mike Klumpp, Jeff Gotte, Casey Davis, Troy Foreman and Jacob Lalanne have close to 100 years of combined experience. You can trust this family-owned business to give you the quality repair work you demand and deserve.

(337) 824-6567 • 17193 Hwy 102, Jennings, LA

Volume 3 • Issue 13

W. H. Tupper operated his General Merchandise Store beginning in 1910 in a rural community just north of Jennings, La. When he closed the doors in 1949, the complete inventory remained on the shelves, undisturbed, until 1971 when it was carefully packed and warehoused. There it remained until his grandson Joe Tupper Jr., donated the store’s contents for the W.H. Tupper General Merchandise Museum to the City of Jennings.

This unique museum offers visitors a glimpse of nearly every facet of early twentieth century life in rural Louisiana. Experience a sim-

pler time when townsfolk picked up their mail, bought groceries, shopped for notions and toys and caught up on the news – all at the same place, the Tupper General Merchandise Store.

Museum Hours are Monday thru Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museum is closed on weekends and major holidays. Admission is $3.00 for adults and $1.00 for students.

The museum is located at 311 N. Main Street in Jennings. For more information call 337-8215532 or visit their website at www.tuppermuseum.com.

(337) 821-5532 • 311 N. Main St., Jennings, LA

Brad Dupuis, GST, Jimmy Oustalet, Toby Hynes, GST,Jimmy Lyons, Rick Oustalet, Joel Oustalet

We are proud as a family to have represented Toyota Motor Sales for 35 of their 50 years. Quality and service are a family tradition for both the Oustalet family and Toyota Motor Sales. Thanks again for your years of support as we look forward to many years to come.

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

PAGE 19

What’s Cookin’

A Mouth-Watering Experience Like No Other Regatta serves a wide variety of delicious fresh seafood, steaks, pasta and traditional Cajun fare – all in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Here you’ll experience the true spirit of Louisiana’s culture combining fabulous food, good times and the great outdoors – including live bands on weekends and during special events.

Regatta also offers catering for meetings, parties and banquets at this one-of-a-kind restaurant.

Owned by local entrepreneurs Greg and Tressa Trahan, Regatta was inspired by their memories of past good times on Lake Arthur and built PAGE 20

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

for the betterment of the community.

Come visit Regatta soon and create some wonderful memories of your own!

Regatta, 508 Hawkeye Ave., Lake Arthur. (337) 774-1504.

Hours of operation: Tues. – Thurs.: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Fri. – Sat.: 11 a.m.

– 11 p.m.; Sun.: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Closed Monday. Visit their website at www.regattarestaurantla.com.

Directions: Take I-10 to Jennings, exit La 26 South to Lake Arthur.

Turn right at 2nd light and follow to Arthur Avenue. Take a left and follow to water. TJN Volume 3 • Issue 13

The following recipe is a favorite of the owners. Who doesn’t love a spicy shrimp dish?

BBQ Shrimp INGREDIENTS • ¼ tsp. black pepper • ¼ tsp. salt • 1/8 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes • ½ tsp. thyme • ½ tsp. rosemary • ½ tsp. oregano • 1tsp. Worcestershire Sauce • 1tbsp. butter • 1tsp. minced garlic • 4 oz. seafood stock • 2 oz. beer • 6 shrimp (21-25 count) PREPARATION Sauté shrimp in the seasonings, then add stock and garlic.

Sauté for about two more minutes, and add garlic and beer and butter to make a sauce (mmmm!!). Serve over rice or with French bread.

This recipe is for one serving; adjust accordingly for more.

Enjoy! TJN

The Clubhouse exemplifies Southern charm with its large columns and wide verandas.

Members and guests can relax while enjoying sweeping views of the golf course from expansive windows throughout, or sip on a cool drink in the breeze on the oversized porch overlooking the 18th hole. The view is spectacular.

Weddings Rehearsal Dinners Bridal Showers Baby Showers Class Reunions Family Reunions Birthday Parties Corporate Events Conference Services Golf Outings

6150 Gray Plantation Parkway • Lake Charles, La 70605

To book your dream Wedding Ceremony or Reception please call Holly Clawson 337-562-1206 ext. 3

Volume 3 • Issue 13

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

PAGE 21

Bayou

By Lauren de Albuquerque

Biz

Probably the first thing a bride-tobe thinks about after the initial excitement of her engagement is her gown. And what better place to find your dream gown than at Bella’s Bridal Boutique/Mr. Formal?

Bella’s is a distinctive bridal, tuxedo and formalwear business located in Lake Charles. The store started off in Westlake as the Imperial Gallery.

Owner Nanette Singer had a daughter who was involved in pageants, and she decided to take a leap of faith by opening a business selling fabulous gowns—a far cry from her years working at a local plant.

Three years later, the shop moved to Lake Charles and acquired Simply You/Mr. Formal, a 30-year-old, established business. With that, the name was changed from Imperial Gallery to Bella’s Bridal Boutique/Mr. Formal.

They’ve now been in business for 13 years. A recent move to 2506 Ryan PAGE 22

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

Bella's Bridal Boutique/Mr. Formal

One-Stop Shopping for Your Big Day!

Street, next to Casa Manana, has increased business significantly. Not bad for someone who has never owned her own business before!

The store carries everything a bride needs for her special day—from gorgeous designer gowns to veils, gloves, shoes, body shapers, bra pads, double stick tape, jewelry (even cufflinks for the groom), and so much more. If you need it, Bella’s has it—or can get it for you.

Nanette is proud of the beautiful bridal gowns that she carries.

Designers include Alfred Angelo, Jasmine Bridal, Sincerity Bridal, Justin Alexander, Allure Bridals, Sophia Tolli and Private Collection.

“Our gowns range from $300 to $1,500,” she said. “We also have short wedding gowns that range from $240 to $440.”

What’s new for the 2011-12 wedding season? “A lot of flowers and skirts with layers of net and tulle,” Nanette said. “And soft asymmetric

draping and lots of lace details in modern silhouettes.”

Don’t worry, the groom and his friends haven’t been left out.

Tuxedo rental at Mr. Formal is easy. “We offer every style of tuxedo imaginable through Jim’s Formalwear and carry our own line of tuxedos as well,” she said.

“We’re a one-stop wedding shop, and we can handle everything from the bride, bridesmaids, mothers and groom,” Nanette said. There’s also a deal if you purchase all of your wedding party’s attire there.

“The bride is offered a discount on her wedding dress if she purchases it, her bridesmaids’ dresses and the tuxes for the wedding from us.”

Mothers of the bride and groom have a wide variety of styles to choose from with Alfred Angelo and Forever Yours Mothers’ Dress lines. Flower girls Volume 3 • Issue 13

will look like princesses for the day, and Nanette will make sure your bridesmaids have a unified look. It may be all in a day’s work, but it’s a passion for the folks at Bella’s, who also do several bridal shows a year.

Not Only Bridal Nanette points out that they offer much more than just wedding attire.

“I guess you could say if you need any kind of dress, we should have it,” she said. “We carry pageant, prom, homecoming, Mardi Gras and other social occasion dresses.” Designers include Tony Bowls, Tiffany Designs, Dave & Johnny, Roberta, Studio 17, Riva and Hannah S. “Homecoming dresses aren’t difficult to find with all the formal dresses we carry, but finding that perfect homecoming court or pageant interview suit isn’t easy,” Nanette explained. With her pageant experience, she can help you obtain the perfect look to make a great impression and help you take home a crown!

Bella’s also features a yearly Mardi Gras ball tuxedo special for the guys.

“We encourage, but don’t require appointments,” Nanette said. “Just come by and let us help you with your special event. We pride ourselves on our customer service!”

Bella’s Bridal Boutique/ Mr. Formal 2506 Ryan St., Lake Charles (337) 439-4888 (337) 439-0202 (Fax) www.bellasbridalmrformal.com

Jewelry Design Jewelry Repair Pearl Restringing Diamonds & Gemstones Eye Glass Soldering

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Over 20 Years Same Location • All Work Done On Site Over 30 Years Experience • Master Goldsmith Jeweler

TJN

Voted SWLA's Best Caterer for 9 Years!

Specializing In Wedding Receptions And Rehearsal Dinners Elegant Ballroom Accomodates Up To 325 People

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1639B RYAN ST. • 337-480-1221 Volume 3 • Issue 13

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

PAGE 23

Meet Sam

15% Senior Discount All Doctors’ Prescriptions Accepted Experienced Professional Staff • Most Insurance Accepted

White-haired three-year old male seeks loving family! My name is Sam and I am a real charmer—or that is what all the kennel workers say about me. I am a Great Pyrenees/Labrador Retriever mix who never meets a stranger. I am loveable, gentle and self-

assured. My mama taught me to be well-mannered and patient. I am big but gentle, and I specialize in unconditional love. You can contact my matchmaker Wanda and she will tell you all about me at (337) 661-9132.

An adoption application can be found online at www.4PawsSocietyInc.com under the “Forms” tab. Fill it out and fax to (337) 558-6331 or email to fourpawssociety@aol.com. A vet reference and home visit are part of the adoption process to ensure a good match for both the dog and the adopter. If you live outside the Calcasieu Parish area, a “virtual” home visit can be done by emailing photos of your home to us. Hurry, Sam is waiting! TJN

Computer Repair/ Sales • Network Management Home and Business Security Camera • Professionally Installed Gerrit Lawrence

1306 A Sampson St., Westlake • (337) 721-1969

photo by www.monsoursphotography.com PAGE 24

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

Volume 3 • Issue 13

eth Dawdy Marion Elizab e Dawdy lle Va n and Marily

By Lisa Addison

Did you just get engaged? If so, you need only to envision the wedding of your dreams – whether it’s small and intimate or large and elaborate - Marilyn’s Flowers & Catering will make it their mission to see that your dreams will come true. With the loving assistance of founder Marilyn Dawdy and her daughter Beth Dawdy, along with the support of a dedicated staff who truly enjoy what they do, brides are able to focus on the big day itself while Marilyn’s tends to all of the endless intricate details leading up to the event.

One of the reasons that Marilyn’s is the perfect place to turn wedding dreams into a reality is because they have been in the business of creating magic for more than 30 years.

“It can get stressful at times, but that’s just because I care so much about these couples,” Beth said. “They become like family. And I really want them to have the most amazing wedding and be able to make incredible memories.”

She said that sometimes, a bride will come in after seeing an incredible $40,000 TV wedding and want all of the features, but without the Volume 3 • Issue 13

budget for it. “But we will do everything in our power to give her the fairytale that she dreams about within her budget restrictions,” Beth added.

Marilyn and her daughter Beth finish each other’s sentences, lend each other support, occasionally get on each other’s nerves, and love one another with all they have.

“There might even be some friendly disagreements sometimes,” Marilyn chimes in. Well, in a family business, and with all that goes with that, it’s to be expected.

You could say that Marilyn, with her elegance and shining personality, has passed the torch on to her daughter. The very dream of the business was Marilyn’s and her blood, sweat and tears are in every ounce of the success of the operation.

But if Marilyn, who is now semi-retired, was the passion and the past, then Beth, who has her own style and vision, and who seems to never tire of wedding talk, is the heart and the future of Marilyn’s Flowers & Catering.

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

PAGE 25

A PERFECT WEDDING DAY It’s been said that every journey starts with the first step and it’s much the same for a wedding. If you are the bride, how do you get from Point A (the engagement) to Point B (a picture-perfect wedding day from start to finish)? That’s where Beth comes in. Planning a wedding doesn’t have to be stressful and it certainly doesn’t have to break the bank.

“We start with a consultation, and that’s where we really start to get an idea of the vision that the couple has for their special day,” Beth said. “We try to accommodate their budget while at the same time helping them to have the wedding that they really dream about.”

For each couple, that vision is different. It’s an exciting time, but it’s important to not get so bogged down in the details that you become overwhelmed.

Some of the obvious things to consider when planning a wedding include location, catering, flowers, photographs, minister, and music.

Although the on-site Treasures (venue, business office, design center and hands-on kitchen production facility) is Marilyn’s main site for weddings and other events, they are able to host events at other locales as well—including outdoor sites, the Lake Charles Civic Center, etc. Once, Marilyn even hosted someone’s event at her home when the business overbooked itself (which rarely happens) and had two events scheduled at the same time.

ELEGANCE AND BEAUTY Treasures is a beautiful 18,000 square foot building that accommodates 450-500 guests. It has an elegant feel to it. On a recent afternoon, chandeliers were draped in twigs and pearls, the room was bathed in soft lighting, and a hint of romance lingered in the air. Indeed, a wedding had recently been held in that special room.

“When you book our facility, we handle all of the decorating, customized to your colors, look or theme,” Marilyn said. “We’re not only Southwest Louisiana’s largest, highest-regarded catering company, we are also one of the most established decorating companies. We make sure that Treasures is at its best for every single wedding that we host.”

Simply put, Marilyn’s Flowers & Catering handles every aspect of a bride and groom’s special day so that the couple and their families and friends can PAGE 26

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

enjoy themselves. Their friendly staff will help to set up the music, stay in touch with the cake company, handle decorations, deal with behind-the-scenes concerns, assist with finding a minister if needed, and so much more. During the reception, an experienced coordinator is assigned to help the bride and her bridal party through the dances, toast, cake-cutting, bouquet-throwing, any unforeseen issues that may arise, and the departure.

FLOWERS ADD PERFECT TOUCH “A lot of people may not realize this, but Beth does everything regarding flowers, down to the last detail,” Marilyn said. “And then, the day before the wedding, the bride and her bridesmaids come to the shop and Beth shows them the flowers and they get to hold them. That way, the bride can dream about her flowers when she goes to bed on the night before her big day.”

Not only is Beth a wedding coordinator, she’s also a floral designer. According to Marilyn, master floral designers from Dallas, Houston and other major areas have had Beth work with them on special events. Marilyn’s Specialty Design Center is located adjacent to Treasures’ catering hall. While floral work for weddings is the focus, Marilyn’s also provides large arrangements for events, churches, homes and offices, along with exceptional custom floral casket pieces that express the character of your family’s loved ones.

MARILYN’S FROM THE FRONT TO THE BACK Once you realize that this business is all about the personal touch, and its owners and employees really care about the needs of their clients, then you will truly understand what makes Marilyn’s Flowers & Catering so special.

In the front office is Debbie Comeaux, Marilyn’s personal secretary, who has been with the company for 18 years and whom Marilyn says is irreplaceable. On a recent afternoon, Marilyn asked Comeaux for a few different items that had been filed away long ago. She then mused out loud that it would likely be difficult to find them.

But within 10 minutes, Comeaux returned with neatly-organized files that contained every requested item.

Volume 3 • Issue 13

Russ and Marilyn Dawdy

“For me, two things help to keep the office going – calendars and communication,” Comeaux said.

Shirley Wright is also in the front office and has been with the company for nine years. Wright has the kind of personality that makes a person feel as if they have known her forever. “She’s just the most pleasant person you will ever meet,” said Marilyn. “She’s so personable and gracious. And she’s a very important part of our office.”

Rounding out the front office staff is Jean Hernandez, a people person, retired principal and Marilyn’s close friend. “I say that she’s my comptroller but she’s so much more than that,” said Marilyn.

“She’s the person who really helps me put things in perspective. I need her in my life and couldn’t imagine her not being with me on this journey.”

On a recent typically busy afternoon, staff rushed around as they changed up Treasures for yet another event, because every occasion gets its own personalized treatment. The customized rolling wall design in Treasures services 50-450 guests without patrons feeling overcrowded or, by the same token, isolated in a vast room.

CATERING A SPECIALTY OUR PLACE OR YOURS Marilyn’s isn’t only involved in weddings.

Their clientele is approximately 60 percent weddings and 40 percent social gatherings.

“We have catered everything from Southwest Louisiana’s largest formal conferences and grand openings to drop-off lunches for small training seminars,” Marilyn said.

Indeed, the business is known throughout the area for their superlative catering service.

You may not be aware of this, but Marilyn’s prepares 90 percent of their food from scratch. And they buy local, getting their shrimp and crab from Hackberry. Everyone loves their signature dishes, which include succulent crab cakes and spinach artichoke dip.

There’s also their amazing ability to serve hot food to guests at a phenomenal rate. “We can serve a seated meal for 300 people in 15 minutes,” Marilyn said proudly. “At an event last night, we served 120 people in eight minutes!”

Marilyn’s has catered the Women’s Conference in Lake Charles for many years—an event which brings in over 1,200 people. “Have you ever had to wait in line at the buffet?” she asked. “We’re so organized, those lines keep moving.”

With 12 permanent staff members and 50 part-time employees, it’s clear that Marilyn’s is a thriving business.

People like Jacques Broussard, food and beverage manager at Marilyn’s for 21 years, help keep things running smoothly. “I absolutely love what I do,” Broussard said.

“I love the people I work with, the events we are a part of, and every single thing about the business. It’s just fantastic.”

“Jacques has both a business mind and great cooking skills,” Marilyn said. “I can always depend on Jacques to make sure that our guests always have an abundance of quality food.”

Marilyn’s son Russell Dawdy is also involved in many facets of the business, although he prefers to keep a lower profile. But if you’re attending an event that Marilyn’s is hosting, it’s a sure bet that Russell has been heavily involved in the preparations. “I’ve been doing this my whole life,” he said. “I think the thing I like most about being a part of the business is the feeling of completing things and having a sense of closure each week.”

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562-0054 Volume 3 • Issue 13

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

PAGE 27

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

“Russ’ love of cooking, and his creative flair for special dishes, decorating, and ice carvings make him a great asset to our family business,” Marilyn said. “His martini luge has been a hit at many events!”

Regina Vincent, a 15-year employee and banquet manager at Marilyn’s, says her job, “keeps me on the floor all the time. I’m always running around doing whatever needs to be done. I really like keeping things going. We’re like family here.”

Mary Estes has been with Marilyn’s for 14 years and is involved in food preparation. Staff as well as clients agree that nobody can hold a candle to “Miss Mary” when it comes to the dishes she prepares – especially her green beans.

But Estes said it’s all in a day’s work for her. “I just really enjoy what I do,” she said. “I take a lot of pride in it and it’s important to me that people enjoy their meals. After an event, when I see empty plates, it gives me a good feeling because I know that people enjoyed the food that I prepared.”

Joanne King, a six-year employee of Marilyn’s and a graduate of the culinary program at Sowela Tech, says, “I’m a cook, server, bartender, and I also handle the watermelon carvings as well as create the fruit and cheese platters. When I’m working, it isn’t just work; I’m thinking about the people we’re doing the event for. It’s important to me that everything turns out well and that they are happy with it. It’s a very special day for them and I want it to be memorable.”

Another employee, Robert Roger, who has been working for Marilyn’s since the beginning (more than 30 years) agrees. “Without Mrs. Marilyn and her husband Eddie, I really don’t know where I would be today,” Roger said. “They taught me everything I know and I consider them my family.

I’m the operations manager at Marilyn’s and that means I do everything that is needed, both inside the building and outside as well. I’m truly honored to be a part of this business

and to also be a part of this family.”

Whatever your catering budget and whatever your tastes, Marilyn’s can help. There are several options available depending on the number of guests, type of event and budget considerations. Marilyn’s coordinators will help brides and grooms find a price and menu to suit them.

From a sit-down buffet to an elegant cocktail reception, the possibilities are endless – and delicious when it comes to in-house catering with Marilyn’s.

For a sit-down, plated dinner, which is perfect for the smaller, formal weddings, menus can be set in advance and include options for each course or for the main course only.

There are many packages to consider, which can be discussed in an initial consultation at Marilyn’s.

NEW YEAR’S EVE WEDDING As the staff finished up their preparations in the main room, Marcie Dougay arrived for a meeting with Beth to wrap up some details pertaining to her upcoming New Year’s Eve wedding. To say that Dougay has a lot on her plate would be an understatement. In addition to her job, she and her future husband, Tray Braud, are house-hunting and she’s working toward an advanced degree. Of course, she’s also finalizing plans for her wedding.

“I am so thrilled that I found Beth,” Dougay said. “One of the things I loved the most was that I could do everything in one place and not have to go to five or six places to have the wedding that I really wanted. We’re having a large wedding – seven bridesmaids, seven groomsmen, two junior bridesmaids, a flower girl, ringbearer, ushers – it’s a lot to deal with.

But Beth has made it such an easy process. Beth gives such great feedback and took my vision and dream of what I wanted and then gave it back to me. I’m very pleased with everything that Marilyn’s has done.”

Volume 3 • Issue 13

Sitting in on Dougay’s consultation, Beth’s talent and expertise shone through as she assisted the bride with all of the special details. As Dougay’s wishes slightly shifted and her previous plans were reconfigured, Beth kept smiling, because she knows that the end result will be a happy bride and groom.

Indeed, in this third get-together with the bride, referred to as a “working meeting,” more details began to take shape. Plans were finalized for the wedding cake; photographer; catering; and flowers. The twentysomething couple is having a traditional reception at the Civic Center and a modern, fun celebration followed by ringing in the New Year.

Afterward, they will head out for a Colorado honeymoon as they embark on their new lives together.

COMMITMENT TO CLIENTS “We know that our most valuable and important resource is our service commitment to our clients,” Marilyn said. “By applying the principals of truth, honesty, respect, and integrity, we nurture and maximize the talents of each of our professional staff. God has blessed our company in many ways and it is our privilege to return these blessings to Southwest

Volume 3 • Issue 13

Louisiana. And I have to say that when it comes to blessings, I am the most blessed mother in the world. To be able to take a concept you love and then be able to pass it on to your children is such an amazing thing.”

Spend enough time talking to Marilyn and you will hear that when she first started the business, it was on a wing and a prayer. “There sure wasn’t much money,” she recalls. “I even made my own tablecloths.”

She has endless stories that include brides in tears and how she wiped them away, handled the problems, and smoothed it all over. She remembers people not showing up, cakes falling, the weather not cooperating, and so on. Nothing seems to faze Marilyn, who always appears to keep her cool.

It’s the same for Beth, who has her own share of stories and triumphs.

This isn’t just a job for her; you might say it’s a calling. “I’m so fortunate to be able to do what I love,” she said.

“My mother taught me to imagine, learn and work hard for what you want to achieve. Then she let me fly.

For that, I am forever grateful.”

Lisa Addison has been a writer for more than 30 years. She writes for local, regional and national publications. TJN

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PAGE 29

You have to look perfect on your wedding day. All eyes will be on you and hundreds of photos will be taken. Everything has to be fabulous.

That includes your hair. They say our hair is our crowning glory, so you have to make sure you choose the right hairstyle to compliment your gown and veil. Here are a some useful tips: • Consider the time of day and type of wedding when choosing your style. Loose styles are more appropriate for informal or daytime weddings, while up-do’s portray a formal, evening look.

• First decide which is more important to you: a certain hairstyle you’ve always dreamed of having on your wedding day, or the

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

style of bridal veil. The hairstyle you choose and your wedding veil must work well together and making this happen can sometimes be daunting if you haven’t planned well ahead of time.

• If you’ve first chosen a veil, take it to your stylist at least a couple of months before the wedding so she can work with you to create a hairstyle that complements both you and your headpiece. DON’T do anything drastic such as cutting, perming or dying your hair a new shade so close to your wedding that there isn’t time to correct any mistakes. If you’re planning on a big change, make sure you do it early enough to leave time to make adjustments.

Volume 3 • Issue 13

• If the hairstyle is more important, have your stylist do your hair in the same style the morning of the day you are planning to shop for your veil. This way you can easily decide what style of headband or tiara design, and length and style of veil, will work best with your hairstyle.

• Take several photographs of hairstyles you like to your stylist.

Tear pictures of looks from bridal and hairstyling magazines or print hairstyle examples from the web.

• Bring a friend along to photograph the look from all angles so you can print photos and refresh your stylist’s memory on your wedding day.

• During the “test run,” walk around with the hairstyle you plan to wear to determine its comfort level. The simpler, the better is a good rule of thumb.

Pins can hurt, and intricate styles are often delicate.

• Most brides begin planning their big day at least a year in advance. This is also the best time to start planning for having healthy flowing locks on your wedding day. The average

head of hair grows 6” a year (or a 1/2” per month), which gives you lots of leeway for correcting current problems and planning your bridal hairstyle. Remember, longer hair will give you more styling options!

• Consider wearing beautiful hair jewelry under your veil so you continue to shine even if you remove your headpiece at the reception. It will not only add a dazzling element to your wedding hairstyle, but will also become a treasured heirloom for future generations. Remember to take them to your stylist when planning your hairstyle. TJN

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Volume 3 • Issue 13

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

PAGE 31

They’ve been with you every step of the way — through good times and bad. They’re your closest friends. And now that you’re ready to say, “I do,” they’re ready to stand beside you on the biggest day of your life.

How do you thank these special people who will make your wedding complete?

Bridesmaids Your bridesmaids will be purchasing dresses, shoes and accessories, organizing your shower and bachelorette party, pitching in for a fabulous shower gift, and will be a major support for you on your big day. How do you show them how grateful you are?

Make sure you treat your attendants to hair and makeup styling the day of the wedding. They will love it and you’ll be assured that everyone will look perfect!

Many brides give their attendants matching jewelry to go with their dresses, so everyone has a uniform look. Not only is this practical, it’s also a big savings for the ladies, as jewelry can be pricey. But there are a lot of other options to consider: PAGE 32

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

Monogrammed items never go out of style. Personalize the following options: • Flip flops • Cosmetic bags • Beach blankets • Robes • Tote bag stuffed with goodies (bath gel, soap, lotions, etc.)

• Terry slippers • Manicure sets • Pashmina shawls or scarves • Bridal party water bottles Then there are liquor-related gifts: • Hand-painted bridal party wine or champagne glasses • Set of bridal party shot glasses • A bottle of wine or champagne with a personalized bottle label • Monogrammed wine cooler tote Gift certificates to favorite restaurants, stores, health spas and tanning salons will always be appreciated.

And if you can afford it, a girls’ weekend away will be a blast!

Groomsmen Your groomsmen will be renting tuxes, planning your bachelor party, Volume 3 • Issue 13

escorting guests to their seats and helping out on the big day, and making toasts. How to repay them? Here are a few ways to say thank you!

• Camping equipment • Game tickets • Gifts featuring logos of their favorite sports team.

A gift for the home bar is always popular: • Personalized beer mug or flasks • Shot glass sets • Corkscrews/bottle openers • Give each groomsmen/usher a bottle of their favorite liquor

Another option is to organize a group outing for you and the boys (on you, of course). Popular ideas are: • Camping or fishing excursion • Sporting event • Casino night (or a Vegas trip, if it’s in the budget) • Concert • Golfing

Engraving a functional item with the groomsmen’s initials personalizes your gift. Engrave or monogram one of these options: • Pocket knife or pocket multi-tools • Corkscrews/bottle openers • Wristwatches • Cufflinks • Money clips • Lighters • Pens • Business card holders • Wallets

Maid of Honor and Best Man Since they have more responsibilities, they should get something extra. In addition to the gift you give your attendants, give them a gift certificate to a restaurant or wine shop; tickets to the theater, a round of golf—you know what will float their boat. TJN

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Schexnider said the company is comprised of people who believe in encouraging, celebrating and rewarding others for who they are. “It’s a direct-selling company, which means we bring the party to you,” she said. “Partying with Thirty-One is a fun shopping trip with your girlfriends, except you never need to leave your home.”

Products range from signature purses, totes and accessories to eye-catching storage solutions that help organize your life. “Each season, we develop new products built on the idea that our products must be functional AND fashionable,” Schexnider said.

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

PAGE 33

Image/Fashion Stylist/Advisor Karla E. Tullos, CIC This month, The Jambalaya News presents a Spice Up Your Look Wedding Makeover for a very lovely bride-to-be!

Alexa Ortego and Grant Navarre saw each other for the first time at a McNeese football game. Both were smitten with one another, and Grant was able to get Alexa’s phone number through a mutual friend. They talked and eventually decided they were boyfriend and girlfriend. Neither of them had their license yet, so Alexa would ride her golf cart over to his house so that they could visit. They have been together for almost six years.

This past July, Grant asked Alexa’s dad for permission to marry his daughter. After receiving his approval, Grant took Alexa to Mazen’s and then for a quiet walk around the Civic Center where he bent down on one knee and told her he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her and asked her if she felt the same way. She said “YES”. Their wedding is scheduled for Aug. 11, 2012.

Bride-to-Be Alexa Ortego MSU Sophomore Cowgirl Kicker/12-year dance teacher Dress and accessories provided by Mam’selle’s

MAKEOVER SPONSORS Mam’selle’s, owner Delanie Cooley “I’m not sure where to really begin, but to say Wow! Ms. Kerri, you are the best. I never would have imagined how much fun I would have through the entire process of trying on wedding dresses. Instead of

a long boring process, my experience at Mam’selle’s has been memorable!

Your selection of bridesmaid dresses was just as impressive! Mam’selle’s should be every girl’s first stop when planning that special day! Thank you Mam’selle’s Bridal Shop!

Selecting a wedding dress can take months! Alexa slips away from a Cowgirl Kicker function to meet with bridal consultant Kerri Hebert and assistant Tracey Richard.

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

Volume 3 • Issue 13

Donna’s Lingerie and Swimwear, owner Donna Mier, CMF “What a beautiful selection of bridal lingerie! I’m definitely including Donna’s for my lingerie shower—hear that girls? The atmosphere is so relaxing and friendly. Thank you Ms. Donna for the professional bra fitting. They don’t do this at Victoria’s Secret—it really does make a difference! I will definitely send my bridesmaids in with their dresses for the proper undergarment foundations. Thank you so much, Ms. Donna!”

Donna Mier shows Alexa some of her latest selections of bridal lingerie.

Alexa with her parents Diana and Scott Ortego

Alexa with fiancé Grant Navarre

Glow Salon, owner Jill Hebert “Gosh, I have a great first impression of Glow Salon and Ms. Jill! The atmosphere is really unique. I know my bridesmaids will love coming here as well. I lead an active lifestyle and have little time to fuss over my nails. Ms. Jill knew just the look I needed for my big day. Keeping it natural, she went with a classy French manicure look and applied the hottest polish on the market, Shellac. It’s amazing that my nails will look this great for two weeks, definitely what I will need for my wedding day through my honeymoon. I’ll have beautiful nails at last! I’m going to book a party for my bridesmaids to experience a night of luxury at Glow Salon!”

Alexa with owner Jill Hebert

Massage by Cassie at Inner Bliss Massage therapist Cassie Robbins and owner Deanna Shuff “Thanks so much to Cassie and Inner Bliss for the wonderful treatment over the past two days. After a long week of Cowgirl Kicker workouts, school and dancing, a full body massage from Cassie was like heaven! She had me totally relaxed in no time— and I will definitely recommend her to family and friends. We should all take the time at least once a month to relieve the stress from everyday life and to restore our health.”

Alexa admits she was somewhat nervous about the body wrap, but that changed after Deanna explained the process to her. “The benefits of getting rid of both the toxins in my body and reducing my size almost sounded too good to be true! Well ladies, I lost five inches! No matter your size, we all store toxins and retain excess water. If you have never had a body wrap, don’t wait any longer! I will be back for sure!”

Two days of the royal treatment at Inner Bliss with Alexa’s new friends, massage therapist Cassie Robbins and owner Deanna Shuff

Salon W “When I was told Salon W was sponsoring the hair and makeup for my bridal makeover, I knew I was in good hands! I like the way Salon W works as a team.

Allyson and Sarah took into consideration the style of my dress as well as my facial features, complexion and hair prior to working their magic. Sarah gave me a beautiful wedding day look, bringing focus to my eyes by using bareMinerals makeup, and even shared a few tips for my big day! Allyson had the perfect hairstyle in mind to complement my facial features along with the style and neckline of my dress. She paid close attention to give me just enough curl and height balance before the final placement of my hair accessory.

Alexa takes a break to show off her amazing results with makeup Allyson and Sarah, you both are amazing. I love artist Sarah Girot, left and stylist Allyson Meche, right. my overall look—thank you so much!”

Volume 3 • Issue 13

Body & Sol Tanning and Gift Shop “A big thank you to Pam Fields, owner of Body & Sol Tanning and Gift Shop in Westlake. I’ve been tanning at Body & Sol for years and they have the best beds in town! My mother loves the variety of gifts they have to offer at all price points, which will be perfect for my bridal party. I tell all my friends about this place!”

TJN

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

PAGE 35

By Mary Louise Ruehr

The Darcys Still Live at Pemberley — and at the Bookstore The popular fascination with the characters created by Jane Austen seems to grow every day. The public, as well as the writers working in the genre, seem particularly drawn to the characters from Pride and Prejudice — especially Mr. Darcy. And why not? He’s handsome, rich, passionate, a man of deep thoughts and complex feelings, and at the end of the original book, he was married to the affable Elizabeth Bennet.

The books and stories being writ-

ten about the Darcys today range from simple retellings and re-imaginings to steamy romance, outright silliness, and even erotica. The “alternative Austens” sometimes begin at a particular point in Austen’s original story line and take a different route to the same conclusion. Others fill in a backstory or introduce new characters, so that the ending is not quite the same.

One of the “P&P variations” is A Wife for Mr. Darcy by Mary Lydon

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

Simonsen. It begins with Mr. Darcy coming to the Bennet home to apologize to Lizzy for disparaging comments he made about her at a dance.

Darcy finds her attractive, but to keep his estate of Pemberley he is supposed to marry a “lady of rank,” and this does not include Elizabeth.

Besides giving us an account of Darcy’s ancestry, the author raises discussion about class, acceptance, and the evolving society. Events happen in a different sequence, which changes the results. Basically, all conflict has been removed; therefore, the real reason to read it is to live once again inside the world of Elizabeth and Darcy, which the author very nicely re-creates. It’s heavy on romance — (“Lizzy looked into his eyes, and they were the beautiful green she had discovered on that long-ago morning when he had come to Longbourn to apologize.”) — and even a little racy, but it mostly misses Austen’s humor.

For just plain silliness, I don’t suppose anything can compare with the surprisingly popular Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, except the even sillier prequel, Dawn of the Dreadfuls, and the conclusion of the trilogy, Dreadfully Ever After, all by Steve Hockensmith.

While the first entry, Zombies, consisted simply of Austen’s original text with zombie attacks thrown in, Hockensmith’s subsequent works are original, but try to keep reasonably faithful to the characters and even sometimes to the style of Austen’s writing. The prequel details where the zombies came from and how Elizabeth became a zombie-slayer. In the final book, the Darcys have been married four years when Mr. Darcy is attacked and becomes a “dreadful” himself. Can Elizabeth save him?

There’s plenty of violent, zombiekilling action.

The Intrigue at Highbury by Carrie Bebris (now in paperback) brings a totally different aspect to the Austen-homage genre. In this, the fifth of the Mr. and Mrs. Darcy mystery series, the married Darcys are traveling by coach after dark to visit relatives and suddenly encounter a damsel in distress.

“The woman appeared in the road ahead, seemingly out of nowhere. In the twilight and the distance, her features were indistinct, save for the pale hair that tumbled about her shoulders.” When they stop Volume 3 • Issue 13

to come to her aid, the carriage is robbed, and the damsel disappears into the night.

In each of the Darcy mysteries, Bebris has the sleuthing couple interact with characters from the other Austen novels. (Ingenious — just what we rabid Austen fans dream about!) In this case, the Darcys meet the newlywed Knightleys from Emma, who are hosting a wedding reception for Frank Churchill and Jane Fairfax. When a guest dies at the party, poisoning is suspected, and Mr. Knightley asks Darcy to help investigate. Meanwhile, Elizabeth and Emma look into the robbery and Emma continues her attempts at matchmaking. Once again, the characters from Emma appear: Harriet, the Rev. Elton, the “vain and insufferable” vicar’s wife, the ever-chattering Miss Bates, and more.

This is a very nice read — a solid mystery with an entertaining premise and a happy ending. The writing style is probably the most reminiscent of Austen’s that I’ve encountered, and Bebris is faithful to the characters’ personalities without being awkward about any of it. She uses subtlety, sly humor and even word games.

It’s a vicarious vacation in the Regency world.

Volume 3 • Issue 13

But really, you can’t beat the original, and I suggest The Annotated Pride and Prejudice with notes by David M. Shapard. If you’ve ever found Austen daunting or dull, forget about it. Pick up this book, and you won’t want to put it down. The original text is on the left page, and the very helpful notes and occasional illustrations are on the facing page.

These are not dry, dusty notes, either.

They may clarify a rule of etiquette or

a point of legal concern, or they may be full of juicy information, define a word or explain the significance of what just happened. I loved it.

Shapard has also annotated Persuasion and Sense and Sensibility, and his Emma is due out in February.

Copyright © 2011 by Mary Louise Ruehr. TJN

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

PAGE 37

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By Brando

The Stupid/Smart Conundrum Dunder-Mifflin boss Michael Scott once summed up his managerial philosophy by saying, “I want people to be afraid of how much they love me.”

It’s obvious that LSU head coach Les Miles attended the same school of management because, right now, I am terrified that I love Miles as

PAGE 38

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

much as I love Steve Carell’s bumbling character.

On the surface, they both seem very alike. Both have a penchant for speaking in completely nonsensical phrases or outright making up their own words. At first, both come across as stupid, but it is clear that they possess a sharp intellect and keen, intuitive savvy that make them successful in spite of their many screw-ups.

And both are gambling men, willing to risk it all in the face of long odds. Sometimes the payoff is awesome.

Like that time against Florida in 2007, when Miles went for it on fourth down what seemed like 20 times on the game-winning drive, converting every single time before Jacob Hester bulled his way into the end zone and sent Tim Tebow home to cry into his Precious Moments blanket. It was just like that time on The Office when Scott brought his and Jan’s client to Chili’s instead of the Radisson, got him drunk, and pulled a Jedi mind trick sales job on him to close the deal.

Or like that time against Alabama last year when Miles called a tightend reverse to Deangelo Peterson (all

243 pounds of him) on fourth-and-1 and Peterson got 22 more yards than necessary. LSU would eventually score the game-winning touchdown to beat the fifth-ranked Tide.

It was just like that time on The Office when Scott gets David Wallace to give him, Jim and Pam their old jobs back instead of taking a buyout of the Michael Scott Paper Company, keeping the trio employed rather than having to split a lump sum payment.

But, of course, with Miles, things can go from awesome to terrible (and vice versa) faster than you can say “Threat Level Midnight” and his Tigers do something so stomach clenchingly, head swimmingly horri-

Volume 3 • Issue 13

ble, that it reminds me of Michael Scott at his worst.

Like that time against Ole Miss in 2008 when LSU suddenly couldn’t tell time and wandered around aimlessly until finally deciding to spike the ball as the clock zeroed out. It was just like that time on The Office when Scott had to tell all of those high school seniors he couldn’t live up to his 10-year-old promise to pay their college tuition.

Or that time last season against Tennessee when LSU again couldn’t figure out what the big hand and little hand were for and ran out of time and seemingly lost the game trying to get the hurry-up (for the love of GOD, hurry up!) offense on the field.

It was just like that time on The Office when Scott got all of the office’s equipment stolen and then lied about having Bruce Springsteen tickets to auction off at the Crime Aid fundraiser.

Of course, in both the Tennessee and Springsteen cases, something happens in the end to bail Miles and Scott out. For Miles, it was Tennessee deciding to try and play with something like 38 players, drawing a penalty, and allowing LSU to score the game-winning touchdown on the ensuing untimed down. For Scott, it was David Wallace and Phyllis coming through with a weekend in Martha’s Vineyard and a $1,000 hug respectively.

It’s maddening, wondering whether good or bad Miles is going to show up. But right now that’s what makes LSU football great in the same way Michael Scott made The Office great. There is an excitement and a tension in the air, especially before a big game, just like I felt before a new episode of The Office. Which Scott would show up this week? Would it be the deceptively brilliant Scott who kept his Scranton branch from getting the axe or the tone deaf idiot who puts his foot in his mouth at Diversity Day? Same thing with LSU and Miles.

Will it be “The Hat,” the most feared coaching specimen in college football, liable to call a triple-reverse option halfback fumblerooski pass on fourth down and 30 yards to go (and there’s nothing the opposing team can do to stop it from working)?

Or will it be “The Mad Hatter,” staring at the clock as time runs out and his players run in all directions with no idea what to do?

Miles, for all of his genius and all of his faults, gets you emotionally invested (if you weren’t already) and Volume 3 • Issue 13

that’s what makes great drama.

It’s scary, with LSU ranked third in the nation and being mentioned as national championship contenders and all, worrying about whether this is the week Miles bombs like an illtimed Michael Scott joke.

It’s scary, but I love it.

CORRECTION: So, I made quite the boo-boo. These things happen often in journalism; some errors are small (misspelled words, etc.) and lonely old geezers with nothing better to do call and complain about them

and everyone moves on. And then there are the errors where you just flat get it wrong. That’s what I did. In the August 25 edition of “The Sports Report,” I erroneously named Paul Demarie the new head football coach at Barbe High School. The new head coach is, of course, Mike Cutrera and he’s doing quite well so far. I apologize for the error. Thank you to Sharon Cutrera and bfontenot3444@yahoo.com for bringing this to my attention. As always, I appreciate reader feedback, even when you are telling me I’m wrong.

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

TJN

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

PAGE 39

r m ende's Museu l l E an en

By D e Childr of th r o t c Dire

True Grit (Paramount, 2010 DVD) Originally, True Grit was a novel

by Charles Portis, published in 1968.

If you’ve never read it, join the club. If you didn’t even know there was a novel, join me in raising your hand. If you’ve never seen the 1969 movie with John Wayne, stand over here with me in this lonely corner, but don’t feel bad. From the looks of this new version, directed by the infamous Coen Brothers (Fargo, O Brother Where Art Thou?) you wouldn’t think they ever saw the first movie either.

PAGE 40

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

Mattie Ross is narrating her story.

As a young lady all of 14 years old, she sets out to avenge the murder of her father. An amazingly intelligent child, she succeeds in bargaining a horse trader for her dead father’s saddle and a horse that was stolen by the murderer. Intelligent, indeed.

That being settled, she pursues Marshall Rooster Cogburn, an aging gunslinger prone to drink and idle conversation about his past marriages. Her plan is to go with him and bring the murderer, Tom Cheney, to justice. Along their way into Indian territory, they meet up with a Texas Marshall, LeBoeuf (pronounced La Beef). He’s also looking for Cheney. Except in Texas, Cheney is accused of killing a senator’s dog, and then the senator. Mattie will

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have none of this, and insists that he be brought to trial for the killing of her father.

Well. What I never heard when all the buzz came out about this movie was this: the dialogue is absolutely archaic (as in the book). I guess us poor folks from Arkansas, Texas, and Louisiana never discovered the contraction until the 20th Century. (Le Boeuf: Yes, that is the way! Make me out foolish in this girl’s eyes! Rooster: I think she has got you pretty well figured. Mattie: Would you two like to hear the story of “The Midnight Caller”?)

If this campfire conversation doesn’t make you just roll on the ground with laughter, then you’ve totally missed the humor here. And with Jeff Bridges as Cogburn and Matt Damon is as LeBoeuf, it just gets funnier, sort of. True Grit is all about ironic humor, especially the title. Mattie, who wants a man with grit to avenge her father, is really the one with the grit, sitting there while the Marshall and the Ranger argue like children about who is the better man, in prose that sounds like they’re both preachers reading from the Bible.

If you’ve seen Fargo, you can understand why the Coen brothers

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took True Grit on as a project. It has quirky characters, strange dialogue, and enough crude violence to keep a movie going. Add in the beautiful southern scenery, and you’ve got an interesting movie.

As for the acting, for all I know Jeff Bridges may have grown up on John Wayne’s knee, but it doesn’t show here. His portrayal of Rooster Cogburn is all his own, always sounding like he has a chaw of tobacco in his mouth. As a foil and straight man to Cogburn’s and Mattie’s gibes, Damon underplays the role of Ranger LeBoeuf perfectly.

Hailee Steinfeld, who plays Mattie, has an angelic face which belies her intelligence and dry wit.

Seeing what happens to her in the end is kind of sad, and you really get the feeling of an era that’s gone by, and then some.

True Grit isn’t a movie for young kids. One guy gets his fingers cut off, several get shot, there’s the tongue scene, and a lame horse gets put out of its misery. But the language is very clean (you might say sterile). The movie is worth a look and one of the Coen Brothers’ more consistent efforts to date. TJN

2806 HODGES ST., LAKE CHARLES Cottage Shop Area

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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CALLED 2B CATHOLIC FESTIVAL Father Leo E. Patalinghug, host of the television program Grace Before Meals was the keynote address speaker at the Called 2B Catholic Festival at St. Louis High School. Crowds of people gathered for a day of fun and to experience Father Leo’s sense of humor. Serving it hot, Father Leo demonstrated his cooking class, educating us on the impact of engaging in conversation as a family while preparing and eating meals together. Cookbooks, T-shirts and food were available from area vendors. This “Love Out Loud” family event concluded with a Eucharistic procession to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception followed by Mass at 7 p.m. All in all, a family day of fabulous fun!

Brianna Evans, Madison Thibodeaux, Mallary Martinez and Meaghan Thibodeaux

Marjorie Long and Barbara Rozas

Dax Campbell, Austin Fontenot and Elizabeth Doise

Alex Stokes and Kaycie Kennison

Rachel and Robert Barbry

Addison Pitre and Shelby Castille

Kayley and Lexi Viator

USS ORLECK PATRIOT RIDE The USS Orleck Naval Museum hosted the Patriot Ride to commemorate the 10th anniversary of 9/11.

Geared-up riders revved up their engines at 11 a.m. showing their love, honor and support on this sunny day! Following the ride, the amphitheater was the gathering place for riders and supporters to pay their respects during a touching memorial service. Then it was off into the sunset for a ride to the Isle of Capri Casino Hotel for closing ceremonies, prize announcements and for a spectacular live concert by the Grammy-nominated Stacy Mitchhart Band. A Big salute from The Jambalaya News!

Nemo and Rosco Bergeron PAGE 44

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

Pops and Switth Smith Volume 3 • Issue 13

Blake May, Gage Smith and Nathan Barker

Stacy Mitchhart Band

Penny Miller and Tim Clark

LAKE CHARLES 9/11 COMMEMORATION In remembrance of the anniversary of 9/11, the City of Lake Charles held a commemoration at the twisted beams of steel memorial on Bord du Lac Drive. Mayor Randy Roach and family survivors shared words of wisdom to the crowds who came to show support and honor those affected by the attacks. It was a chilling moment as bagpipers and bugles sounded and men in uniform stood proud under the American flag. God Bless America!

Danny Rose with Dusty and Jackson Richard

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Retired Petty Chief Navy Officer Harry Cormier with grandchildren Kaleb and Isaac Benjamin

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Nakeia and Gordon Driver

Eleanor Stevens and Aaron Beverly

Parker Richard and Shonna Taylor

James and Baylie Dean

Jean and Jim Arnaud

Adam, Lindsay and baby Brooklyn Camille Janies

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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HEALTHY WOMAN FIRST ANNIVERSARY Women were treated to a lovely evening at Treasure’s of Marilyn’s in Lake Charles as we gathered for Women and Children’s Hospital’s Healthy Women First Anniversary event. In addition to tasty hors d’oeuvres, music and dinner, we shopped at local vendor booths during an hour-long Health Fair & Expo. Adding a special twist to the evening, guest speaker Dale Smith Thomas gave an empowering and entertaining presentation providing us with the tools to become our personal best! So ladies, believe in yourself, expect the best, utilize your gifts and remember…Good Morning Gorgeous! TJN

April Daley, Dixette Williams and Bridget Guillory

Nadia Nazeer, Dawn Johnson Hatcher, Dale Smith Thomas and Annette Garber

Beryl Cook and Latania Ramierz

Kellie Fruge, Leslie Cubbage and Devin Magee Cash

Susan Reed, Senator Willie Mount and Annette Tritico

EAST HALE ST., LAKE CHARLES 2 bed / 2 bath • Approx. 1,250 sq. ft.

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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CAYENNE KAYAK CHALLENGE SEPT. 24 The Pelican Paddlers Club of Southwest Louisiana announces the 5th Annual Cayenne Kayak Challenge. This event will be held on Sat., Sept. 24 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lake Charles north beach. Anyone interested in getting involved in canoe or kayak sports is invited. Registration starts at 7 a.m. The Cayenne Challenge will include a Cardboard Kayak Race, a Kayak Skills Relay Race and a paddle around the lake. Enjoy food, fun and music. Boats will be available for participants. In addition, there will be basic kayaking instruction. Fee for the event alone is $10; instruction fee is $25. For more information, contact Rene Stramwasser at rstram@suddenlink.net, or call Ship to Shore at 337-474-0730. For online registration visit the Pelican Paddlers website, www.pelicanpaddlers.com.

‘Resonating Fields’ ‘RESONATING FIELDS’ AT OLD CITY HALL OPENS SEPT. 23 The City of Lake Charles will host a new traveling exhibition entitled Resonating Fields. In this exhibition, Lois Greenfield brings together a definitive collection of her pioneering work in dance photography.

Greenfield captures not just the lithe and acrobatic forms of dancers performing their art, but the purity and exhilaration of movement itself.

An opening reception will take place Fri., Sept. 23, from 5:30-8 p.m. at the 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center at 1001 Ryan Street.

There is no charge to attend, all ages are welcome and refreshments will be served. The Center is open Mon. – Fri. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m. -2 p.m. For more information, call 491-9147 or visit www.cityoflakecharles.com.

LCF SALUTES THE USO FUNDRAISER SEPT. 24 The Louisiana Choral Foundation will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the USO with dinner, dancing to big band sounds, and a musical show “Hooray for the USO!” On Sat., Sept. 24, at 6 p.m., Paxton Hall in First United Methodist Church in Lake Charles will be transformed into a 1940’s USO canteen. A delicious meal with exciting entertainment by LCF members, local dance troupes and musicians will honor the USO tradition of serving our troops. Tickets (for limited seating) are $25 and will be available at Swicegood Music or by calling 491-9348.

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

SMITHSONIAN MUSEUM DAY AT STARK MUSEUM SEPT. 24 On Sat., Sept. 24, The W.H. Stark House and the Stark Museum of Art, both in Orange, Texas, will participate in the seventh annual Museum Day. For all visitors bringing a Smithsonian Museum Day Admission Ticket, the art museum will give a free set of note cards and Stark House will offer free admission on house tours. Visit www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday to download a Museum Day Admission Ticket. Located at 712 Green Avenue in Orange, the Stark Museum of Art is open to the public Tues. – Sat. from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call (409) 886-ARTS (2787).

Smiths onian M useum Day

MCNEESE COWGIRL SOFTBALL FALL FUNDRAISER SEPT. 24-25 McNeese Cowgirls Softball Program will hold their annual softball tournament fundraiser Sept. 24-25 at Frasch Park in Sulphur. The tournament will begin Sat. featuring ten colleges playing two sets of three games, one at 10 a.m. and the last at 6 p.m. In addition, there will be approximately 30 youth tournament teams ranging from age groups 10 and under through 18 and under. Tournament teams will conclude the fundraiser on Sunday with the champions of the 10-14 teams being decided that afternoon. The fundraiser is being sponsored by the Dugout Club, the booster club of Cowgirl Softball. For more information, contact Lucas Terracina at (337) 513-9616.

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CALCA-CHEW FOOD FESTIVAL SEPT. 25 Don’t miss some of the best cooking in Calcasieu Parish at the 27th annual Calca-Chew Food Festival, which will be held at the St. Margaret Catholic Church Family Center. Sponsored by the church, all dishes are prepared by parishioners. The event will kick off with a festival mass at 7 a.m. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy crafts, Cajun French music, prizes, raffles, a live auction and a children’s area with train rides, games and a live petting zoo. Plus, feast on everything Cajun including shrimp étouffée, boudin, fried fish, cracklins, gumbo and barbecue. The event will take place on the corner of 17th Street and Enterprise Blvd. in Lake Charles. For more info, call 439-4585.

MSU BAYOU PLAYERS PRESENT ‘PYGMALION’ SEPT. 28-OCT. 1 McNeese State University Theatre Bayou Players will present Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw at 7:30 p.m. Sept.

28-Oct. 1, with a 2 p.m. matinee Oct. 2 in the Shearman Fine Arts Theatre. Pygmalion remains Shaw’s most popular and most famous play, mostly through its film adaptation as My Fair Lady. This Shaw classic is a sharp lampoon of the rigid British class system of the day and a comment on women’s independence, packaged as a romantic comedy. Ticket prices are $15 for adults, $10 for McNeese faculty/staff and senior citizens, and free for McNeese students with a current ID. For tickets, call 475-5043.

GALLERY PROMENADE SEPT. 30 Get ready for Gallery Promenade! Galleries throughout the Lake Area will be open, showcasing works by local and regional artists. Take a stroll through downtown Lake Charles and visit

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the many galleries showcasing a tantalizing variety of artwork.

Enjoy chatting with locals and admiring the talent of local hands, while sampling the fare of the eateries in the newly recognized Charlestown Cultural District. All original art and fine crafts purchased downtown are exempt from local and state sales tax! The City of Lake Charles will provide free trolley rides to and from several locations within the downtown area. For more information on Gallery Promenade, including locations, visit www.artsandhumanitiesswla.org, or call (337) 439-ARTS (2787). For general festival information, visit www.visitlakecharles.org.

CHRISTUS ST. PATRICK WOMEN’S HEALTH NETWORK CELEBRATION OCT. 7 The CHRISTUS St. Patrick Women’s Health Network will host a women’s luncheon on Fri., Oct. 7, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the L’Auberge du Lac Grand Ballroom.

The event “A Celebration Of Women – It’s Never Too Late to Feel Great,” will feature professional speaker and humorist, Peggy Kline as she brings her gifts of therapeutic humor and renewed hope to the women of SWLA. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet and hear from the Women’s Health Network physicians. Tickets are $12 per person and reservations are required. Call 4917577 to reserve your seat today! For information on reserved full-table seating and sponsorship opportunities, call Louise McDaniel at 491-7555.

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STEP UP FOR DOWN SYNDROME OCT. 8 Southwest Louisiana is home to many Angels with Down Syndrome who need your continued support. For the past eight years, UP4DOWNS, a local non-profit support group, has gathered for a fun-filled day of community spirit, education, food, games and a walk to remember. This year’s Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk is set for Sat., Oct. 8 at the Sports Complex on the McNeese campus off Common Street. Registration begins at 9 a.m. The walk is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. with face painting, Moon jumps, great food, dancing and kids games to follow from 10 a.m. to noon. To register, join a team or form your own team, contact Debbi Seaux at 582-6138 or 309-7530, or go to www/firstgiving.com/up4downswla.

Administrator Randy Stelly and Admissions Coordinator Renea Dowies work hard to make the move to Landmark of Lake Charles a positive one for new residents. They know that smooth transitions start with an admissions process in which caring, knowledgeable staff take the time to answer questions, learn all they can about the resident, and make them feel at home right away.

SAM HOUSTON HS 10-YEAR REUNION OCT. 8 Sam Houston High School’s Class of 2002 ten-year reunion will be held Sat., Oct. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at The Brick house, 110 West Pine Street, Lake Charles. There will be a DJ plus live music from the band STATIC. Reunion festivities will also include a “Family Fun Day” at Sam Houston Jones State Park, a golf tournament at Graywood Golf Course, a float in the homecoming parade, tickets to the pre-homecoming game tea hosted by the Student Council, tickets to the Homecoming football game, and a bonfire after the game on Friday night. For more information, contact Kerri Hebert (337) 515-2998 or Tiffany Guidry (337) 526-8207 or Facebook/Group/SHHS 02 Reunion.

HOLY TRINITY EPISCOPAL CHURCH PUMPKIN PATCH OPENS OCT. 9 The church grounds of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church will once again be covered with big orange pumpkins grown in and around the Navajo Indian Reservation in New Mexico. The pumpkins are scheduled to arrive on Sat., Oct. 8 at 9 a.m. If anyone is interested in helping us unload, please feel free to join us that morning. The Pumpkin Patch will be open until Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays and Saturdays, and noon - 6 p.m.

Sundays. School classes, daycare facilities and grandparents can bring children to Pumpkin Patch Storytime. There are two classes on ten different days, so please call the church office (625-4288) to schedule a visit. Picnics can be held in the Pavilion if arrangements are made beforehand. The proceeds from the sale of pumpkins, gourds, and pumpkin bread fund Holy Trinity’s outreach projects. The church is located at 1700 Maplewood Drive in Sulphur. For more information, please contact Cyndi Khoury at 527-8787 (CMKTypist@aol.com) or the church office at 625-4288.

Adley Cormier, left, and Dr. Philippe Girard will present "The French Wine Experience" FRENCH WINE EXPERIENCE OCT. 11 Thomas Jefferson was the first American oenophile to explore the Bordeaux region of France and bring back enough wine to stock what was almost certainly America’s first great wine cellar. This history will be combined with a tasting of Bordeaux wines at the French Wine Experience from 5-6 p.m. Tues., Oct. 11, in the Contraband Room of the

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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Lake Charles Civic Center.

Presented by the Rouge et Blanc Wine and Food Event and the Grand Reveil Acadien, five Bordeaux wines will be paired with hors d’oeuvres from La Truffe Sauvage to perfectly complement the nuances of the French wines. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased at www.rougeetblanc.us or by calling the Banners Cultural Series at McNeese State University at (337) 475-5123. Proceeds support the Banners Cultural Series.

FASHION FUSION RUNWAY SHOW OCT. 13 The Fashion Fusion Runway Show will make its debut on Oct. 13, featuring clothing and accessories from SWLA merchants Mimosa Boutique, Tecis Ladies Apparel and Stella & Dot Jewelry. It will be held in the Evergreen Room at Graywood Plantation and begin with a cocktail hour from 6-7 p.m., with the runway show to follow. Tickets are $10 pre-sale and $15 at the door. Pre-sale tickets can be purchased at Mimosa Boutique or by visiting www.fashionfusionlc.com. McNeese Students can purchase pre-sale tickets for only $8 (must show ID to receive special pricing). Proceeds will benefit the Calcasieu Parish Women’s Shelter. For more information, call 564-5818 or visit www.fashionfusionlc.com.

RAGLEY HERITAGE AND TIMBER FESTIVAL OCT. 15 The 13th Annual Ragley Heritage and Timber Festival will be held Sat., Oct. 15 at the Historical Square Pavilion in Ragley. The festival will kick off with a parade at 9 a.m. at the Ragley First United Pentecostal Church.

Activities will begin at 10:15 a.m. There will be bands/music, delicious food and sweets, quilters, spinning, corn grinding, wood making, jewelry making, and antique cars and tractors on display. The children will enjoy train rides, puppets, magician shows, balloon animals, and more. A Lil’ Red Wagon contest will be held with the theme “Fall into our Heritage.”

Children, ages 0 – 10 years can enter their wagon in a parade beginning at 12:45 p.m. If interested in entering the contest, call 540-3792. Gate fee is $5 per carload. For more information, call 725-3324.

IONIC LODGE #26 MASONIC GOLF CLASSIC NOV. 12 Ionic Lodge #26’s Masonic Golf Classic will be held on Nov. 12 at the National Golf Course of Louisiana, 2801 Louisiana Way in Westlake.

Shotgun start begins at 9 a.m.; participants need to be onsite at 8 a.m.

Oct. 31 is the last day to register. Two-man scramble is $220 per team.

Participants will receive a golf shirt and a Golfers’ gift bag. Prizes will be given to the four golfers closest to hole, and a prize given for longest drive of the day. Hole Sponsorship is $100 and includes: Hole sign at tournament with company name and logo; full page ad in Masters’ Ball souvenir book with company name and logo; and a platinum sponsorship award to be presented to sponsoring company. For a registration form or more information, contact Bradley Stevens at (337) 764-8031, Shawn Papillion at (337) 304-2922, or Reggie Moore at (337) 526-1647. TJN

REEVES UPTOWN CATERING 1639 RYAN ST $

15 members, $18 non-members

Guest Speaker: Angie Quienalty, Registrar of Voters

Friday, Sept. 30 at 11:30am Volume 3 • Issue 13

Reservations Required.

Please RSVP to info@lwv-lc.org or call 474-1864.

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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

The

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 • Lucy in Disquise @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m.

• William Christian @ Cigar Club, 8 p.m.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 • The Hotel Cazin Band @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Bernie Alan @ Club 1Sixty5, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 8 p.m.

• Coal Train @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m.

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

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 • Art on Wheels @ Lake Charles Civic Center, Noon • Felton LeJeune & The Cajun Cowboys @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Street Side Jazz Band @ Stellar Beans, 7 p.m.

• The Lost Bayou Ramblers @ The Porch, 8 p.m.

• Paul Gonsoulin @ Huddle Up Sports Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

• Alex Addy & The Tambourine Machine/Go, Granny, Go @ Twiggy’s, 8 p.m.

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

• ISIS @ Club 1Sixty5, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 8 p.m.

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

• The 94s/The Ruxpins/The Revivalists @ Luna Live, 9 p.m.

• Certain Satellites @ Happy Hippie Pizza, 9 p.m.

• Kris Harper @ Cigar Club, 9 p.m.

• X-It 43 @ Linda’s Lounge, 9 p.m.

• Jose Mata @ Big Kahuna’s, 9 p.m.

• Travis Matte & The Kingpins @ Yesterday’s, 9 p.m.

• Ridin’ High @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m.

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

• Adrian & The Sickness @ Texas Longhorn Club, Vinton, 11 p.m.

• Jo-El Sonnier @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m.

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

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 • Art on Wheels @ Lake Charles Civic Center, 10 a.m.

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

• Noyola/Lochness Mobsters @ Luna Live, 8 p.m.

• DJ Shakey @ Bob & Pete’s, Sulphur, 8 p.m.

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

• ISIS @ Club 1Sixty5, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 8 p.m.

• Paul Gonsoulin @ The Porch, 9 p.m.

• Michael Kittling @ Cigar Club, 9 p.m.

• Creole Soul @ Yesterday’s, 9 p.m.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 • Briggs Brown & The Bayou Cajuns @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Bernie Alan @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m.

• The Loaded 44erz @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m.

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

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 • Warren Storm/Willie Tee & Cypress @ Yesterday’s, 6 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 • Alvin Touchet @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m.

• NIL @ Cigar Club, 9 p.m.

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

• Lesa Cormier & The Sundown Playboys @ Aucoin’s Cajun Restaurant, Hayes, 7 p.m.

• ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m.

• Paul Gonsoulin @ Cecil’s Cajun Café, DeRidder, 7:30 p.m.

• Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes @ Luna Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

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• Sound Effect @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m.

• Street Side Jazz Band @ Cigar Club, 9 p.m.

• The Chee-Weez @ Yesterday’s, 9 p.m.

• Sean Vidrine & Da Classics @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m.

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

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1 • Howard Noel & Cajun Boogie @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Lesa Cormier & The Sundown Playboys @ Aucoin’s Cajun Restaurant, Hayes, 7 p.m.

• ISIS @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m.

• Purple Reign @ Delta Event Center, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m.

• Sound Effect @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 8 p.m.

• Lucy in Disquise @ Micci’s, 9 p.m.

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

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4 • The Vespers @ Luna Bar & Grill, 8 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5 • Alvin Touchet @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6 • Don Fontenot et Les Cajuns de la Prairie @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Warren Storm/Willie Tee & Cypress @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m.

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

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7 • Travis Benoit & Allons Dancer @ DI’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 6:30 p.m.

• Stellar @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m.

• Paul Gonsoulin @ Cecil’s Cajun Café, DeRidder, 7:30 p.m.

• Crossin’ Dixon @ Yesterday’s, 8 p.m.

• X-It 43 @ Linda’s Lounge, 9 p.m.

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

TJN

MONDAY NIGHTS: Abita Beer Night

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS: Mondo Martini Night

THURSDAY NIGHTS: Be Well Night

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

Wed., Sept. 21 @ 9 pm HEADMINE Fri., Sept. 23 @ 10 pm THE REVIVALISTS WITH SPECIAL GUESTS: THE 94'S & THE RUXPINS Sat., Sept. 24 @ 8 pm DOWNTOWN PUB CRAWL KREWE DE MAGNOLIA Fri., Sept. 30 @ 10 pm JOHNNY SKETCH AND THE DIRTY NOTES Sat., Oct. 1 @ 10 pm SNARKY PUPPY Mon., Oct. 3 @ 9 pm THE VESPERS Tues., Oct. 4 @ 9 pm THE VESPERS Fri., Oct. 7 @ 10 pm GOV'T MAJIK

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Leslie B e four dec rman’s career in ades, an music folksing er, mus d includes stin spans ic teach ts as a booker, e c tival dir oncert promote r, coffeehouse r e notes w ctor, music jou , publicist, fesriter, ar rnalist, trade o album tist ma na rg tainmen anization pre gerwwwww, sid t a the Mu ttorney, and ent, enterp sic Mu seum o resident of Louisian f a . musicall She prefers Southwest y GRAM eclectic, and v all things M Recordin Ys as a mem otes on the g Aca ber o reached at leslie@ demy. She c f the an leslieber man.co be m.

lnd cappe es rass, a Blueg somber a us languag cs. ) r i (often ds in vario oung myst ing back fo akem r M y a l y la bal y old and keep reach ur freedom y Tomm rk you b o rty or ers and wo r “old e h a l sung that’s why I eet-and-s e and Rand o s O’F y Broth h ó y c n w n n u s o s n o S ’m c e, an rs Da y, wis of Nina Sim ons when I e Clan ds to the se aelic singe ll r g h t n a d i e m s s r a an G h o a a d t c y u ostl nied soun ackw Pers nt of way b naccompa who are m loving an and the al equivale heart is, r u , c style” ph Heaney w.

Newm g the musi s where my language o idway Sea m e o s i ! n n l o i e J a s k v a in, d s e ever m i i a eparte upon Fest the Georg igher se t food. Ho abies, what y’re played d r a e r l h e s e d fo a am st a e th y lul leep.

So I c he film, ju ppealing to hannel ere m usical styl safely to s h st a w f r t c a e m e e g h h m or vation all surfin hroug rs wer using form fail to rock ster’s d channel should t land Singe ckily, the O ck to back i s r y e ssoIs nev at at m , an hers I’m a free a but lu back to ba gain. t , a r s e e I was onnection , when wh ert doca F r w w t po n Two ve noticed won’t be su ying i atched it a loomfield et c nd noise 967 conc a o n l r n p e n t s a a B n a w ! u I 1 k Sh st h you ival s w y, so I just hile Mike Jewish kid t l!—a ckgro rt Fol ou mu d of gal, so tching Fest usiY w a u h for ba but Festiva he Newpo less segue b c d n i , e r h h a n m i m T And t out being a Bar Mitzva hem tion k hear that w emories of d have I find ary about ours of sea ous folk a i c b t t an to ga es -up elt fm umen l. It’s two h ces by fam h, Bob talkin had a bang ecause he f r white blu prised up loads o ecades ago ccasions n a s a v , e a o i d b a ’s d d t ’ h t m t s C y Fes for det who the blue ield, anot any. Tha kicke een/heard n random Johnn ns, O ef per s o ph i e p ayed ul Butterf of h e l t of bri names like Judy Colli owlin’ p n ’s cians red about da r hat think a H a , e T P e z , s h e t s e e ? n I n m r t e a d i e l e , e e B m p b in ’t d sc wh won e years. arie mad ux fro ie Gil w har oices , Joan m, isn ry, an er th Sainte-M rs, a Saultea gs, illusoy, ble erican drea migrant v h a musiDylan eger, Ronn ul and Ma Smith, the v b o e a ug m f im Buffy Two Feathe ountry son old fanPete S nd Peter, P ike Hobart e-Marie, the A can quilt o ushed thro what I l t a e i p e s n on f nd t k r ng c Wol usic light Buffy Sai ouse, Mi Ame languages, ne, to mak merican Shann ba, who sa en’s books a e correctly d , A i H r m s o l h r h a y r n folk m Singe Manit some child o mention at tribulart, So rfield, Rich ers, man ashup mac uintessentia u I H o , d t n h d e Fre sippi Joh aul Butte ne Broth cal m f as the q trated tories. Not no idea w had sufrewin o s r m o P i o a s d s k o s d b d a l i s n M thin . tastic d that I h s in Cana is Riel and ll if in s ad been all ield a iña, The O Bikel. f s a h s m t e e d i y l o u l n p m o w o n r h o eca d Bl sou d sudde assu ative peo p on L elf ), and I r ed imi Fa le and The ilm, edited s a e as it resent, an e u r e M d n N h a t d A s e f p a r d n rs an , as th riv e d it w usic’s past eir way to other tio ed (you can 885 for you ucation” de g da Rid k and whit wo hours, w ve e e z i m l l a A re fer ym ot l ac t th I ha of 1 akin and y “ed The b ial breaks t inder that ng – maving fough nd Latvia ant to events corn for m he heartbre . o l e a h t c a t e r w s e em sweet m reading unded Kne ome ture. Hom Poland that didn’t rents, at my comm ion and a r myself. s u i f d h e n o o s a s t fr fr ar ’s ronx n countrie my grandp longing for entirely Heart At W k and hand rrevela iable roots music I le m my dad B f e e y f o ea y, ar identi rt from th tunes), fr ears and Europ hem anywa nal songs o into the- r Bury M as a tall, d s the only p ritage d i w e o t y e e i a h Apa ee (show rs and y asses e t h n p i t r H d kee erican ost alw (as tu kn , with yea et in eir tra ic cl n, alm Native Am here we m of ith th d freedom my parents l forms a mom’s ad jazz), in chool mus n Hebrew w m i of r s an d ca e ght sw 78s (t f Hebrew iday songs led by my home scores), an roots musi cores mad ormer olk festival hen I thou lly f o l n d s l e o f a years us and h while cud ally writt atrica American theatrical freedomat the ly 1970s. W I occasion o n f d s w r g o s a n a o a a n t e e i n , t u v g r t e (religi glish), and abies origi elf-selected r lo rted o gethe e emin , th years late d he was si telling n s ll , m and E other (lu eater), my from tra- , that sta aditional-s ongs, all to l birthright e i h agin p y m r where p of t g popular s my musica om. d, I im fire some dkids and grand Yiddish th n is built u out equalit i u d s e o ed d in da an for th l foundati ra songs ab o happines extoll me towar ion and fre d of blues aroun to kids, gr fans. a t e c d ,I n t i n i s d e s s i u e r a e 0 d t u o i e m t ra rs, d6 es t ro ment” ste tor of n wm this time a f s n h h t s t o a i g n i l u y h r o a t g r i i o i at dition m, and the folk “move are”) my st ercolates w ing electric avilygener googling h died, but c c o s e l e i p “ d y g h h l a t e t m k n I d h l e n a h I i r j p to t e s f ade u alled the fo that h nough info can nicas, songs sung ounter-rhy f m o d i t e m a d n r c h r n a s t h lea You ind e e bas lish, c al! ove, a s and times ldn’t f properly. histle Irish-Eng ing femal nasal u (some ed in Festiv ll of the ab girls fall o w c m a h t om gh ted n hi depic commend why Jewis dreamy accen laps and bo gers, the hi y-turned mour w r y l t c n o l i I re n d kn ou el s nfu t with han ime c Gosp ant to mour oiced ies of old t you w d hard for ingers, star v s on fast an Irish poet harm

al c i s u My M t lo g y l o P

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Volume 3 • Issue 13

hear songs from his album Dreams That Feed A Gypsy on YouTube, and read a joint interview at www.metismuseum.ca/resource.ph p/05176 with his wife, Maria Campbell, a former associate professor of literature and Native traditions at the University of Saskatchewan and a celebrated Native author. Her 1973 autobiography, Halfbreed, explores the life of those “métis” who live between the white and Native worlds; out-

siders in both cultures.

Holding Out for Hope This brings me to the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy.

During the time of remembrances and prayers that filled the airwaves and public spaces, we were reminded of our national suffering. But it’s also important to acknowledge individual sorrow, too, and to understand that not all of us were able to mourn

loved ones whose lives were lost when the planes crashed and the towers came down.

Listen to emma’s revolution’s “If I Give Your Name (Will They Come After Me?” (from their one x 1,000,000 = change album).

And be aware that too many of us have been and are still being treated with undeserved suspicion through profiling. Read Vance Gilbert about his recent humiliating airplane experience

(www.vancegilbert.com)and click on the “my recent travel event” link in his vance rants blog). I know these are sensitive issues, with good people holding opposing viewpoints. I’m just hoping that when troubles come, we‘ll listen to each other, respectfully.

I’m holding out hope for a polyglot world, crooning those songs of tradition and freedom to comfort myself when the times, like these, are tough. TJN

Killin’ Time Crossword

Crossword puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.com (www.bestcrosswords.com).

Used with permission.

Volume 3 • Issue 13

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

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