VOL. 4, NO. 9 / JULY 26, 2012
• A Man, a Dream and a Fiddle • Back to School! • Partners in Education
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GENERAL 715 Kirby St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 www.thejambalayanews.com PUBLISHER Phil de Albuquerque publisher@thejambalayanews.com
NEWS EXECUTIVE EDITOR Lauren de Albuquerque lauren@thejambalayanews.com
CONTRIBUTORS Leslie Berman George Cline Angie Kay Dilmore James Doyle Dan Ellender Pat Dawsey Fox Braylin Jenkins Mike McHugh Mary Louise Ruehr Brandon Shoumaker Karla Tullos ADVERTISING sales@thejambalayanews.com
SALES ASSOCIATES Michele Clack Katy Corbello Faye Drake GRAPHICS ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Darrell Buck BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kay Andrews
contents REGULARS The Boiling Pot The Dang Yankee Tips from Tip Speakeasy Adoption Corner Sports Report Lake City Beat
FEATURES 5 27 28 30 33 34
A Man, a Dream and a Fiddle LA Ranks High for Business Partners in Education Homework Tips for Parents Back to School/Back to Bed Becoming a Center for Greatness
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ENTERTAINMENT 38 40 41 45 48 52 54 55
Red Hot Books Funbolaya Family Night at the Movies 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 2012 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.
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COVER STORY 22 Lutcher Theater’s Sensational Season
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A Note From Lauren Toys are Us
The other day, Phil and I were looking at a hanging metal lamp that can actually bend into various shapes depending on your mood, I guess. It reminded me of a toy I had when I was little, a small metal contraption that could expand or contract. I mentioned this to Phil, and he commented that I must have had a great childhood, because I talk a lot about my toys. I never realized that I did that. And I don’t think that good toys equate a good childhood. You could have been showered with toys because your parents didn’t have the time to give you any attention. But that wasn’t my case. And I certainly wasn’t showered with toys, because we didn’t have the money for that. I think I remember them so well because I didn’t have a lot of them, so I appreciated what I had. It’s funny how I’ll see something that will trigger a memory, such as the lamp, and it’s suddenly 1960 and I’m in my bedroom on the third floor of Barnes Ave., sitting on the floor playing and waiting for the angry phone call from my aunt Jeannette,
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whose bedroom was directly below mine and who would be on the phone complaining to my mother as soon as I made any kind of noise that she found objectionable. Since my aunt had sonic radar for hearing, I was in a no-win situation. I used to ask my parents if we could switch bedrooms so she’d leave me alone, but they refused. Their furniture was too heavy; it was too much of a bother, and so on. I would just have to try and “play quietly.” How does a child play quietly? Needless to say, I was called downstairs and given many lectures throughout the years, accompanied by my eye-rolls and yawns, which certainly did not endear me to her. I definitely wasn’t her favorite niece. But she wasn’t my favorite aunt, either, so we were even. The toys I remember were the little ones that were somehow more important to me than the more expensive toys. Like my red plastic water pistol. It probably cost a quarter, but it gave me hours of fun with the neighborhood kids as we hid behind telephone poles and bushes and squirted each other. It was
especially enjoyable on a hot summer day. Now they sell water guns that are as big as machine guns. Overkill. Unnecessary. I guess it looks good under a Christmas tree. Then there was my wooden spinning top, painted red, white and blue. Did you know that the top is one of the oldest recognizable toys found on archaeological sites? I can’t remember exactly where I played with this toy; certainly not in my room, which would have made my aunt crazier than she already was. Even I knew better than that. I do remember how much I enjoyed it, and how my father would take turns spinning it with me. The yo-yo was invented in Ancient Greece and eventually found its way to East Boston. Every kid in the neighborhood had one; mine was a clear brown plastic. And hula hoops! My cousin Karen had a big yellow hoop that was kind of grubby, but we all loved it. I must have had a smaller one, but all I remember is the big yellow hoop, maybe because it sat in the cellar for years after Karen had married and moved away.
All these toys were simple objects that cost next to nothing, and symbolize a different time, when everyone was content and made do with very little. Today, toys are outrageously expensive and kids get bored with them immediately and move on to the next must-have item. Since they’ve been given so much, will they even remember what they played with when they’re my age and are looking back? Or will it be one big, costly blur that amounted to nothing? Toys are us.
– Lauren de Albuquerque TJN
Volume 4 • Issue 9
By Pat Dawsey Fox
July 23, 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of my dad, Johnny Walter Dawsey. Precious memories come to mind, and I am pleased to share one: the story of his dream to make a fiddle. He was in his late 50’s when emphysema began to take its toll. He took medical retirement from the local Ford dealership in Lake Charles where he’d worked as an automobile mechanic for the previous 18 years. With time on his hands, he decided to make a fiddle. The naysayers came out of the woodwork; a mechanic with the talent to make a fiddle? Unheard of. Some people laughed, but he turned a deaf ear and started his project. Dad used an old fiddle as a pattern. Without proper tools, he improvised, using whatever he had on hand. He carved the scroll on the neck with an Old Timers pocketknife. He bent wood, etched, glued, sanded, stained, varnished and somehow, after months of work, a fiddle emerged. It was the end of September 1971, near the time for the Cal-Cam Fair in Sulphur. I suggested he enter his fiddle in the craft section. His response? “You can enter it if you want to, but I don’t want any more people laughing at me.” On Friday morning, I entered his fiddle. On Saturday morning, as I stood in line at the Fair to enter my fresh cut flowers, I could see the craft section had already been judged—and there it was—a large ribbon rosette designating “Best of Show Winner” on his fiddle. I had to fight back my tears. People standing in line near me must have thought, “Boy, this lady sure gets emotional about entering flowers,” but I knew his time was short, and how much this would mean to him. He could hardly believe it when I told him the news. When I convinced him I was not playing a bad joke at his expense, his grin was as big as Texas. The day the fair opened, you guessed it; Dad was standing next to his fiddle. As visitors walked by, I
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heard him say, “Yes, that’s mine. I made it!” His first fiddle and ribbon have a place of honor in my home. A Baton Rouge newspaper carried a feature story and took the photo shown here. Sulphur and Westlake newspapers printed articles. He was in his glory when KPLCTV interviewed him on television. Encouraged by his success, Dad decided to make another fiddle, more beautiful than the first. He ordered patterns, bought tools and even invented a few. He created one tool to measure the exact curve and thickness of the wood in certain areas. He purchased special wood from around the world. He completed 13 more fiddles before he passed in 1975 at the age of 63. My brother Wayne owns two that he will hand down to his sons. More than one has made it into the hands of musicians, who, at this very moment, may be pulling a bow across the strings and creating its uniquely special tone. In 2007, Ron Yule published My Fiddlin’ Grounds. It features fiddle players and fiddle makers from our area and the state of Louisiana. I am proud to say that Johnny Walter Dawsey and his fiddles were included in this book. What a fitting tribute to a man’s tenacity to pursue his dream to make a fiddle. TJN
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The
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Please submit press releases to lauren@thejambalayanews.com
SUSAN A. JONES, MD, JOINS MEMORIAL MEDICAL GROUP Susan A. Jones, MD, an internal medicine physician, has joined the Memorial Medical Group, the largest physician group in Southwest Louisiana. Her office will continue to be located at 2708 2nd Avenue, Suite C, in Lake Charles. Dr. Jones is a native of St. Martinville and graduate of University of Southwestern Louisiana in Lafayette with a degree in biology. She graduated from Louisiana State University School of Medicine, and completed her internship and residency at Emory University Affiliated Hospitals in Atlanta. She has been in private practice in the Lake Area since 1999 before joining Memorial Medical Group. Dr. Jones is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and is experienced in the care and treatment of such conditions as hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes. To schedule an appointment, call (337) 474-0046. Dr. Susan A. Jones
College, and Dr. Philip Williams, President of McNeese State University. The two checks totaling $5,000 were part of the proceeds from last March’s Chamber SWLA’s Business EXPO held on March 22, 2012.
SWIFT APPOINTED TO SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL George Swift, president and CEO of the Chamber Southwest Louisiana and the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance, was selected to join the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Council on Small Business. The council is the U.S. Chamber’s principal policy committee and action group representing the issues of concern to small business. In addition to formulating small business policy, the council assists small business members in creating effective grass roots actions and strategies on legislative, regulatory and international initiatives.
EIGHT GRADUATE FROM MEMORIAL/LSUHSC FAMILY MEDICINE RESIDENCY PROGRAM Eight doctors recently graduated from the Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and Louisiana State University Health Science Center Family Medicine residency training program. This year’s graduates include: Drs. Jean Ancelet, Fallon McManus, Rick Edwards, Melissa Rasberry, Lacey Millet, Ben Degatur, Raji Natarajan and Nick Heinen. The Memorial/LSUHSC Family Medicine Residency Program has been in operation for 15 years, producing 79 graduates that understand and recognize the pivotal role family physicians have in directing family healthcare. George Swift
SWLA IMAGING PERFORMS FIRST MRI-GUIDED BREAST BIOPSY IN LC Southwest Louisiana Imaging recently performed the first MRI-guided breast biopsy in Lake Charles utilizing their 3T MRI located at 1601 Country Club Road. Along with this new technology, Southwest Louisiana Imaging has added DynaCAD for Breast, which is a computer-aided detection visualization system that allows physicians to perform comprehensive analysis of breast MRI studies. For more information on this procedure or any of the other MRI or CT services provided at either location of Southwest Louisiana Imaging, call 439-7778 or visit at www.swlaimaging.com. CHAMBER PROGRAM DONATES $5,000 TO LOCAL SCHOOLS At the recent Chamber Southwest breakfast to welcome Dr. Neil Aspinwall to Southwest Louisiana, representatives from the Chamber SWLA and its Small Business Committee presented scholarship checks for $5,000 each to Dr. Neil Aspinwall, Chancellor of Sowela Technical Community PAGE 6
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Drs. Jean Ancelet, Fallon McManus, Rick Edwards, Melissa Rasberry, Lacey Millet, Ben Degatur, Raji Natarajan and Nick Heinen.
HEBERT KEYNOTE SPEAKER FOR SUMMIT Sam Hebert, with Sam Hebert Financial Group, was chosen as a keynote speaker for the Hispanic Top Agent Summit in New Orleans. The summit is for top Hispanic agents with New York Life. Sam’s speech was centered on the best financial practices and nurturing a positive attitude in business and in life. NPF ANNOUNCES AFFILIATION WITH Sam Hebert LOCAL GROUP The National Parkinson Foundation announces a new affiliation that will enhance the lives of people with Parkinson’s disease and their families. The National Parkinson Foundation SW Louisiana-SE Texas Chapter located in Lake Charles is joining forces with NPF to address the unmet needs in Parkinson’s care and treatment. NPF has an extensive network of chapters across the United States comprised mostly of volunteer leaders that provide local services, such as health and wellness programs for peoVolume 4 • Issue 9
ple with Parkinson’s and their families. NPF chapters also conduct support groups, provide education and raise awareness and funds through local fundraising events such as walks, galas and golf tournaments. The local chapter is governed by an eleven-member board of directors that recently welcomed Britney Glaser-Felder of KPLC-TV and Bernadette Seaberry of Sensational Creations to the board of directors.
Kerry Andersen, Pinnacle, Paula Gillard, Arts Council board president, Erica McCreedy, exec. director Arts and Humanities and Keith W. Henson, Sr. VP and GM, L’Auberge Lake Charles.
PINNACLE SPONSORS THIRD ANNUAL ARTS & CRABS FEST Pinnacle Entertainment Foundation, the parent company of L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles, committed to a sponsorship of $5,000 for the annual culinary event Arts & Crabs Fest. The event is coordinated jointly by the Arts Council and the Lake Charles/SWLA Convention & Visitors Bureau and celebrates the ties between local seafood and culture. Pinnacle’s sponsorship ensures that this year’s event creates a wider impact on our tourism and culture. Arts & Crabs Fest will be held on Sat., Aug. 18, from 4-8 p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center, and a limited number of $25 wristbands will be sold, which can be purchased at www.artsandhumanitiesswla.org. For details, call the Arts Council office at (337) 439-2787.
From left: Jan Wilburn, office manager, Paul Hutchens, general manager, Ethel Precht, founder and Christinne Guidroz, casino slot manager.
ISLE OF CAPRI DONATES TO ETHEL PRECHT WALKATHON Isle of Capri Casino Hotel, Lake Charles is proud to donate $5,000 to the Ethel Precht HOPE Breast Cancer 3K Walk. The walkathon is scheduled for October 20, 2012. The foundation provides support to local women undergoing breast cancer treatment. Team members of the Isle of Capri will be participating in the walkathon to help raise money for the charity. SHERIFF TONY MANCUSO INDUCTED INTO LA JUSTICE HALL OF FAME Sheriff Tony Mancuso, along with eight other leaders in Louisiana, past and present, was inducted into the Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame during a ceremony held in Baton Rouge. The LA Justice Hall Of Fame was established by the LA State Penitentiary Museum Foundation Board of Directors in 2004 to honor and acknowledge the men and women in Louisiana who have served their community and their state in the honorable professions of law enforcement, the judiciary, criminal justice, and civil service. Volume 4 • Issue 9
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Left to right: Manette Pecorino, FNB DeRidder, winners Robert and Katrina Evans, and Roger LeBlanc, C&C.
WINNER ANNOUNCED IN FNB DERIDDER’S HOME WORK GIVEAWAY Robert and Katrina Evans of DeRidder recently won the Home Work Giveaway sponsored by First National Bank DeRidder. The couple won a four-piece suite of stainless kitchen appliances from First National Bank DeRidder and C&C Audio, Video and Appliances valued at $2,000. “The timing was perfect,” said Robert Evans. “We’ve been making improvements on our home and then got the phone call that we had won!” Manette Pecorino, mortgage loan officer with First National Bank DeRidder, said, “We’re excited for the Evans family and glad that the timing worked out so well for them.”
St. Louis Catholic High School visual arts teacher Stephanie Robertson, with art contest winners Isabelle Moreno, Hannah Savoie, and Maris Nixon.
■ Drug and Alcohol Screening ■ Synthetic Marijuana Testing ■ Injury Treatment ■ Lab and X-ray services ■ Full occupational medical testing ■ Safety Consulting and Training ■ On-line safety training available ■ Mobile medical and safety services available
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FYCA ANNOUNCE TENNIS TOURNAMENT CONTEST WINNERS Family & Youth Counseling Agency is proud to announce the winners of the 2012 Shannon Cox Memorial Tennis Tournament Art Contest. Maris Nixon, a 9th grader at St. Louis Catholic High School is the first place winner. Her art will be used in marketing materials to promote the tennis tournament such as posters, T-shirts, and the Internet. Isabelle Moreno won second place and Hannah Savoie won third place. Both are 9th graders at St. Louis Catholic High School. The second annual Shannon Cox Memorial Tennis Tournament is set to take place Aug. 17 & 18, 2012, at Graywood Sports Club. See the “Jambalaya Jam” section of this issue for more details. CARDIOLOGIST BEGINS SCHEDULING PATIENTS Lam Nguyen, MD, interventional cardiologist, has begin scheduling patients at his new office located at 1322 Elton Road, Suite E. in Jennings. “We are happy to announce that Dr. Nguyen will be the medical director of our cath lab,” explained Dana Williams, CEO of Jennings American Legion Hospital. The cath lab opened in 2008 to treat patients with cardiovascular blockages. Dr. Nguyen graduated from LSU
Dr. Lam Nguyen Volume 4 • Issue 9
Health Sciences Center in Shreveport. He completed an internal medicine residency at University Medical Center in Lafayette and a cardiovascular diseases residency at Tulane University School of Medicine. He also completed a fellowship in interventional cardiology at Duke University School of Medicine. To schedule an appointment, call (337) 824-6835. IBERIABANK NAMES MCNEESE STREET BRANCH MANAGER IBERIABANK is pleased to announce the recent naming of Christopher Hyde as VP and branch manager for the McNeese Street location in Lake Charles. Hyde joins the company with experience in banking as well as customer service. He most recently served as a branch manager for Chase Bank in Lake Charles. He earned a degree in business administration from Louisiana Tech University. He is located at 135 West McNeese Street in Lake Charles and can be reached by phone at (337) 312-7167 or by email at christopher.hyde@iberiabank.com. NEW DIRECTOR FOR CALCASIEU PARISH PUBLIC LIBRARY Gabriel Morley, Ed. D., began work as the new Calcasieu Parish Public Library director on July 2. Prior to arriving in Lake Charles, Morley was the library director at Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee. He also served as director of the threecounty Pike-Amite-Walthall Library System in Mississippi. He began his library career at the Washington Parish Library System, headquartered in Franklinton, LA and guided that system through Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath. Morley has a doctorate in education and a master’s degree in library science, both from The University of Southern Mississippi. His areas of expertise are adult education and the counterculture. TJN
Christopher Hyde
Gabriel Morley
REDFISH TOURNAMENT • Team Tournament
FISHING RODEO • Offshore Division • Bay & Surf Division • Junior Division
FRIDAY, AUGUST 3 12:01am Fishing Begins 6am Redfish Challenge Competition Begins Noon Festival Grounds and Weigh Station Open 5pm Blessing of the Fleet, Jetty Pier Weigh Station Closes 7:30-9:30pm Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie Band 10-Midnight Keith Frank & the Soileau Zydeco Band 12:30am Festival Grounds Close SATURDAY, AUGUST 4 Fishing Competition Continues 6am 2nd Day of Redfish Challenge Begins Noon Festival Grounds and Weigh Station Open 1-5pm Teardrops Band 5pm Weigh Station Closes 5:30-7:30pm Steel Shot Band 8-9:30pm G.G. Shinn/T.K. Hulin & the Hot Damn Band 9:30pm Fireworks Display over the Gulf 10-Midnight Jamie Bergeron & The Kickin’ Cajuns 12:30am Festival Grounds Close SUNDAY, AUGUST 5 Final Day Of Fishing Competition 6am Final Day of Redfish Challenge Begins Noon Festival Grounds and Weigh Station Open 3pm Weigh Station Closes 4pm Fishing Awards Presented 4:30pm 9th Annual Cameron Fishing Festival Concludes FISHING RODEO TICKETS AND OFFICIAL RULES LOCATED AT THESE AREA LOCATIONS: Lake Charles: Lake Charles Tackle, West Marine Cameron: Gulf Coast Supply Creole: Bayou Fuel Stop, Canik’s Grocery Grand Chenier: Booth’s Grocery, Kelley’s Mart And at Captain’s Night, Thursday, July 26 at Cameron Jetty Peir, Davis Road, Cameron, La., from 6pm to 8:30pm. This years festival is once again sponsored by the Cameron Lions Club and the Cameron Parish Tourist Bureau. The proceeds are used by the Cameron Lions Club to fund its Scholarship Program, the Lions Crippled Children Camp, Louisiana Eye Glass Foundation and several other charities.
For any additional festival info call (337) 775-5316
or visit us on Facebook
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Dang Yankee The
By Mike McHugh
Ain’t Superstitious I’m sitting here enjoying Friday the 13th—the day, not the movie. I don’t much go for scary movies. If I want to be scared, I can just call my doctor and have him remind me of the results of my last blood test. I’m not superstitious, either, and that’s why I’m enjoying my day. I never did understand why certain, otherwise intelligent, people would believe that ill might befall them just because it’s a certain number Friday. Sure, getting run over in the parking lot at five in the afternoon as your co-workers scramble to make Happy
Hour is a distinct possibility, particularly if I happen to be one of the co-workers, but other than that, what’s there to be afraid of? I was curious about how all this Friday the 13th stuff got started, so I looked it up. I learned that the superstition originated in the 19th century, when the Italian composer, Gioachino Rossini, died on that day. Rossini, you must understand, was the Elvis of the 1800s, famous for such works as “Jailhouse Overture” and “Viva Las Venice,” and so it’s no surprise that the date of his passing is
so infamous. But then I also noted that the rapper, Tupac, also died on Friday the 13th, and so I figure things should now be considered even. I marked the day by listening to a little Black Sabbath. It was their first album, which, as luck would have it, was released on Friday the 13th. I still have it in vinyl. I got the copy as a present on my 13th birthday. It has so many scratches that it sounds like Ozzy Osbourne was featured on lead paper shredder. But I didn’t care. It brought back memories of my joyous youth, a time when my only concern was whether my sister would be able to find where I hid her Donny Osmond records, thus again exposing my ears to non-stop playing of “Puppy Love.” One interesting tidbit that turned up in my research concerns the financial impact of Friday the 13th. It turns out that each and every Friday the 13th saps a billion dollars from the American economy. Just think; the government could build four Bridges to Nowhere for a billion dollars. It could buy the U.S. Army maybe a half dozen commodes. It could bring electricity to a
thousand remote African villages, or it could cover Al Gore’s utility bill for the month. I was thinking about contacting my congressman and asking him to introduce a bill to eliminate the thirteenth day of any month where it would fall on a Friday. I’m not usually one to get involved in political causes, as they are usually nowin situations. I mean, look what happened to poor Joe the Plumber. He dares to challenge a presidential candidate on his economic policy, and all of a sudden he’s got political operatives snooping around to see if he has any outstanding library fines. Still, Friday the 13th isn’t exactly what you would call a hot-button issue. I doubt that Rush Limbaugh gets many calls about it. So, taking a stand on it should be relatively safe, and besides, my library fines are paid up. But why take chances? For all I know, there could be a big, underground, pro-Friday the 13th lobby out there, just waiting for someone to speak out against them, someone they can focus their anger toward. I could see them protesting out in front of my house, marching back and forth with signs that say, “THIRTEEN IS KEEN,” making sure to step on every crack in the sidewalk as they go. But, more important, the real solution to this problem is not found by legislating it out of existence. Rather, we’ve got to somehow change people’s hearts and minds to cure them of this irrational fear. What we need is a 13-Step Program, where they can learn to abandon such silly superstations and instead worry about things that they have good reason to fear, such as another season of The Bachelorette. Most people who fear Friday the 13th probably don’t even know that their phobia has a name, but it does. It’s called “friggatriskadekkaphobia,” which I think is also the title of a Black Sabbath song. If you realized that you had an affliction with such a dreadful-sounding name, I’d bet that you’d do anything to be cured of it. You would even go so far as to dial a help line and pay $19.95 a minute to talk to a support person on the other side of the world who is more fluent in Klingon than English. Which makes me wonder, how do you say “friggatriskadekkaphobia” in Klingon? That’d probably cost a hundred bucks in and of itself.
TJN
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Volume 4 • Issue 9
By George “Tip” Cline
SUPPORT A LOCAL CHARITY Due to the economy, many charitable organizations have found that their donations have decreased, and they are being forced to beg for funds from the many donors who supported them in the past. It behooves us all to support those non-profits that we truly believe in if we want them to survive. We can’t be all things to all people and we can’t insure the well-being of every good organization, but we should try to help at least one that has some meaning to us. Surely, you can find the time, money or energy to help preserve a part of our community that you believe in. Pick the one you want to support and keep it going for the future. In addition, many businesses donate to charities, so be mindful of those merchants that support the causes that you hold dear and be sure to patronize them. That indirectly gives to the organizations that you want to help. THE MICHELADA EXPERIENCE Beer was never a favorite drink of mine in my early adult life. I have come to really enjoy the fruit of the brewer’s art in the last decade or so. On a trip to Houston, we ate at a restaurant named Captain Tom’s where they make a fantastic Michelada, combining beer with fresh lime and a spicy hot sauce. At this eating spot, the bar area is in the lower center of the eating area where the oysters are shucked and beverages are made. They put on a show serving the customers seated around them. To make their Michelada, they squeeze a fresh lime into a chilled Volume 4 • Issue 9
SUPERMARKET ROUND-UP Our shopping comparison for this issue is based on a Sunday dinner of fried chicken with mashed potatoes, green beans and vanilla ice cream for dessert. Prices were taken on Wed., July 18, and the prices reported were posted on the shelf. The stores are: Albertsons, Country Club Road; Market Basket, Lake Street; Kroger, McNeese Street and Walmart, Nelson Road. Chicken, whole per pound: Albertsons, $.88; Market Basket,
$1.19; Kroger, $.98; Walmart, $.98. Potatoes, red per pound: Albertsons, 1.59; Market Basket, $.77; Kroger, $1.29; Walmart, $.98. Green beans, fresh per pound: Albertsons, $1.89; Market Basket, $1.50; Kroger, $1.89; Walmart, $2.12. Blue Bell Homemade vanilla ice cream, half gallon container: Albertsons, $6.99; Market Basket, $6.89; Kroger, $6.99; Walmart, $5.97. TJN
mug rimmed with salt, add the spicy sauce and hand you a cold beer which you insert, upside down, into the mug. In pursuit of making this at home, I take Miller Chill, a 100-calorie lime-infused beer and squirt Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce (commercially available at many stores) into the bottle. I’ve tried other brands but they do not compare well. After squirting in the Sriracha, I swirl the bottle to mix it in. Try it, you may find a new favorite. (Editor’s note: another version is the Ojo Rojo. Just add Clamato juice and lime. Muy bueno!) PAY ATTENTION TO EXPIRATION DATES We should all make a habit of checking expiration dates when we’re out shopping. You are spending your hard-earned money and getting what you pay for is what it’s all about. Either returning the product or throwing it out costs you money. Taking it back is a cost of your time and can be a hassle. Throwing it in the garbage is the same as throwing money in the trash can. Remember, too, that when you buy more of something that you really need because it’s on sale, you run the risk of having them on hand well past their point of usefulness. Most products have a shelf life and eventually deteriorate to a condition that renders them unsuitable for your needs. But some items have expiration dates that you might question. Salt, for one, is millions of years old so I expect it should remain stable in your cabinet for some time. Pure salt may clump up if exposed to moisture but it will stay as a strongly bonded chemical that is hazardous to your health only in using too much. JULY 26, 2012
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oyle By Jim D
Forever Dookie If you want to have your ego stomped on, take your children to a vacation among your hometown friends. The one secret I thought I’d preserved was my high school nickname. But, alas, visiting the Cole family ended that bit of secrecy right away. I’ve written about the Coles before in this space. I grew up about 100 yards from their front door in Bolivar, Tennessee, and they are all my lifelong friends. Their group includes Beth, widow of my late friend Gary; Carolyn, who went with me on the first night I ever had the car by myself and had two flat tires; Danny and his wife Molly, and an assortment of grown children who live all over the country. This group always called me Dookie, or in the case of the late family patriarch Bud Cole, Dook for short. I heard it so much as a kid I never gave it a second thought. While I was in my hometown, another great family, Joe, Johnny, and Charles Wheeler, lost their mother Patsy, so I went to the funeral home for another chorus of Dookies. My sons Stratton and Harry couldn’t stop laughing at the image of their lawyer-employer Dad as a Dookie. But there it is. I saw some family along the way, including my cousins Roy and Carl Watson, my only surviving Uncle Lewis and his wife Geraldine, another cousin, Dickie Nuckolls and his wife Bettina, my aunt Sallie Ruth Watson, and a host of others. PAGE 12
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While at Roy’s house for a minifamily reunion, we had a big serving of his famous cole slaw, which has something to do with Ramen noodles and almonds. Apparently a secret recipe. Now that you have the cast of characters, let me tell you about the rest of my trip. We had Fourth of July at Beth’s house in Jackson. Roy attended with his coleslaw and Beth’s sister Karen. Danny and Molly were there, too. We got to talking (that’s a Tennessee phrase) at the table, and before long I was telling tales about my multiple marriages (not all at once; they don’t even allow that in Tennessee). When I finished, Molly spoke up and said, “I can top that.” I didn’t believe it until she told the story of her exhusband, who was involved in a story that took the forks out of his family tree. Discretion prevents me from saying more. No matter where I live, Tennessee will always be home. I’m sure there are many of you who feel the same way about Louisiana or somewhere else. As the great poet Robert Frost said, home is the place where, when you go there, they have to take you in. I suppose being called Dookie across a crowded room of strangers is a small price to pay for that privilege. I can’t finish the trip story without telling you about the haunted house. While in Tennessee, I spent three nights in what had been the slave quarters of a home called Magnolia Volume 4 • Issue 9
Manor, which was owned by the Miller family. As a young boy, I remember Miss Annie and Miss Lizzie, spinster sisters who lived in the house. Once my dad went to see Miss Lizzie with her lawyer Woodson Savage, changing her will, and I went along. I was playing on the cement lions in the front of the house when one of Miss Lizzie’s servants came to get me. As I went into the sunroom of the house, where Miss Lizzie occupied a hospital bed so she could see outside (she was close to 100 years old at this point), she called out to me. “James Buckner,” she said, “you remind me of our brother. He and his friends used to sit on those lions and throw rocks at the Yankee soldiers marching down Main Street.” And there is an even better story about the Civil War. The man of the house was off fighting for the South, but the lady of the house, Annie and Lizzie’s mother, remained. Many homes in Bolivar were occupied, and one night Mrs. Miller had a dinner for Grant and Sherman, both of whom were stay-
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ing in Magnolia Manor. Sherman made some comment during the meal about “killing all damned Rebels,” and Mrs. Miller started crying. Grant, the senior officer, demanded Sherman apologize, and he did. But he was so angry that he pulled his saber walking out of the dining room and struck it multiple times on the banister leading up to the bedrooms in the house. The scars of Sherman’s saber are still there. I don’t know if there were really ghosts in that house, although my fellow guests included a film crew from the SyFy channel. And I don’t know if those sounds of footsteps I heard in the middle of the night were ghosts or not—although I could find no earthly source for the sounds. I guess, given a choice, I would like to come back and visit as a ghost. I just hope my trip is down, not up. Have a great couple of weeks, folks, and I’ll see you on the flip.
TJN
JULY 26, 2012
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By Lauren de Albuquerque Tiffany Fontenot and Leo Reddoch Family & Youth, celebrating 42 years of serving Southwest Louisiana, conducted their annual meeting recently at L’Auberge Casino Resort. Two very deserving people were honored at this event. Leo Reddoch was given the Humanitarian of the Year award for all he has done for the community. Leo never turns down a request for a favor and is always there to lend a hand. Not to mention, he’s a fantastic cook! Tiffany Fontenot, daughter of Jake and Patricia
Philmon, was recognized as Youth of the Year. As chairperson of the Youth Action Council, Tiffany’s leadership qualities, enthusiasm and drive are evident in everything she does. Phil and I are so proud to be members of the 2012 board of directors, as well as advisors for the Youth Action Council. Congratulations, guys, and kudos to Family and Youth for another great year! The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s National Chamber
Foundation will host Hiring our Heroes Lake Charles, a hiring fair for both veterans and military spouses. More than 40 employers are expected to participate with jobs available for all ranks and levels of experience. Companies range from America’s biggest employers to dozens of small companies from across the state. The event will be held on Tues., Aug. 7 at the Lake Charles Civic Center from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Interested employers and job seekers can register for free at hoh.greatjob.net. Walk-in job seekers are allowed with proper military ID. So glad this is being done for our vets. We really enjoyed the Ad and Press Club’s Gridiron performance the other night. What a talented cast, and what fun! It was a toss-up as to who would get the pan award for the person or entity that was harassed the most times during the performance: Chuck Kleckley or Gov. Jindal. Kleckley ended up with the dubious but well-deserved honor. The cast really outdid themselves, especially in
light of what happened the night before at rehearsal, when those wild winds caused havoc at the Civic Center, resulting in injuries to a few cast members. We hear everyone is recovering and the show certainly went on! This was Jam columnist Braylin Jenkins’ first year and he was wonderful. I’ve always said we have some really talented people in this little city. Speaking of talented, I must give a shameless plug to my husband Phil for his weekly Thursday afternoon appearances on Fox 29 Express from noon-12:30 p.m. On the “What’s Happening, Lake Charles” segment, he’ll tell you what’s coming up for the weekend so you can plan your fun. There are all kinds of festivals, fundraisers, live entertainment and so much more that you can’t do it all. There’s nothing to do in Lake Charles? I don’t think so! Hope y’all are enjoying your summer. Keep cool and we’ll talk next time!
TJN
Denise Miller, Lauren and Phil de Albuquerque with Faye and Tommy Drake
Phone: 337-474-1864 Email: info@lwv-lc.org Website: www.lwv-lc.org PAGE 14
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Meet Trudy! Trudy found one of our fosters and is thriving there, but is now looking for a loyal human who will accept her as part of their family forever. Only about a year old and topping out at 10 pounds, Trudy is attentive, energetic, and eager to learn. She is working on house/crate training and is coming along well. Spayed, microchipped, current on shots, and heartworm negative, she couldn’t be more ready for a loving person or family to call her own. Trudy loves to fetch with her human buddy, play tag with her new doggie friends and doesn’t mind if a feline type joins in. She secretly “purr furs” them sometimes! Children can expect a great playmate and companion, too! When you leave the house, Trudy will welcome you home each day with genuine excitement! What more could anyone ask of a true friend and companion? Don’t leave her wondering where she will spend the rest of her life! She asks so little and will give so much. If you would like to know more about Trudy or any of the other dogs and cats available thru LAPAW Rescue, please visit our website at www.lapaw.org. LAPAW Rescue is at PetSmart on Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m. If you wish to meet a particular animal, please email lapaw@bellsouth.net in advance so we can make sure that animal is on site. Hurry, Trudy is waiting! TJN Volume 4 • Issue 9
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Seven Clans Hotel Opens at Coushatta Coushatta Casino Resort is getting bigger and better! The grand opening and ribbon-cutting of the new 401-room, ultramodern Seven Clans Hotel was held recently. The new facility is 100 percent smoke-free and connected to the gaming floor at the casino’s main entrance. The décor is natural stone and rich teak with warm and cool earth tones. The spacious, ultra-quiet rooms with sleek modern furnishings, lavish spa-style showers and custom bedding and linens ensure every comfort. Rooms include in-room safe, hair dryer, coffeemaker, ironing provisions, large screen TV and free Wi-Fi. There are 18 beauti-
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fully appointed suites featuring adjoining rooms with a mini refrigerator, wet bar, and additional half bath; nine have access to individual private patios. A swimming pool with a swim-up bar, lazy river and sun deck is well underway and will be completed before the end of the summer. PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans, a full-service coffee shop that serves lattes, cappuccino and gourmet coffee is in the lobby, along with a cocktail bar (Bar 7), and a gift shop that is open 24 hours. Call (888) 774-7263 to make your reservations. TJN
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Ninth Annual Cameron Fishing Festival Aug. 3-5 Captain’s Night July 26 The ninth annual Cameron Fishing Festival will again have its weigh stations and onshore activities at the Cameron Jetty Pier Pavilion, located at the end of Davis Road in Cameron on Aug. 35. The Blessing of the Fleet starts off the activities on Aug. 3. The first two days of the festival will be filled with entertainment, games, music, food and a fireworks display. The festival will again feature plenty of Cameron Parish’s finest fresh seafood prepared by local
chefs. The fishing portion of this year’s festival will be held on all three days. This year, a third day has been added to the fishing competition so that visiting anglers can fish and compete for the entire weekend. The competition will have three divisions: Offshore, Bay and Surf, and Junior, with plaques given to the top three heaviest fish in each fish category in each division, along with trophies awarded to outstanding male and female angler in the
first two divisions, and to the outstanding junior angler. The Redfish Challenge will also be held, and the top three teams will be awarded prize money. Captain’s Night is July 26 from 6-8:30 p.m. All anglers attending this event will be treated to a fish dinner, will be eligible for many door prizes and be able to purchase discounted entries. In addition to Captain’s night, tickets are available at Lake Charles Tackle and West Marine in Lake Charles, Gulf Coast Supply in Cameron, Chesson’s Grocery in Sweetlake, Bayou Fuel Stop and Canik’s Grocery in Creole, and Booth’s Grocery and Kelley’s Mart in Grand Chenier. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/Cameron Fishing Festival TJN
Groundbreaking Ceremony for West Calcasieu Events Center The official groundbreaking ceremony for the upcoming West Calcasieu Events Center was held recently. The center is an indoor facility, which will complement the existing outdoor arena. “This phase of the West Calcasieu Community Center development is one which has been anticipated for many years. The Events Center will not only benefit West Calcasieu, but also Southwest Louisiana, by providing another venue for various events. The City of Sulphur welcomes this new facility. It will truly compliment the West Cal Arena,” said Mayor Chris Duncan of Sulphur. Adrian Moreno, the executive director of the West Cal Arena is looking forward to the next phase of the development getting off to a great start. “This groundbreaking event is exciting news for everyone in Southwest Louisiana. The indoor facility will allow more flexibility with the types of events that can be accommodated at the West Calcasieu Arena and ultimately in Southwest Louisiana as a whole.” The facility will be a 45,000 Volume 4 • Issue 9
square foot multi-purpose center with a 15,000 square foot main banquet hall that can be divisible into three separate rooms. The new structure will also feature four separate meeting rooms that can be used individually or as three self-supported meeting/event rooms with a full catering kitchen and support area. The facility will cost just under $10 million. “Having multiple options for groups and event planners is a real plus whenever the bureau is looking either to bring new group business to the area or assist an existing client. Many events are planned years in advance, and the staff at the bureau is looking forward to promoting the West Calcasieu Events Center leading up to the opening and beyond,” said Shelley Johnson, executive director of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau. The anticipated opening will occur in the spring of 2014. For more information on the West Cal Arena, visit www.westcalarena.com or call (337) 528-9378.
TJN
JULY 26, 2012
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As temperatures rise, electricity use typically does too. But this summer, Entergy customers have more tools and services than ever at their fingertips to control energy use, take advantage of bill-payment options and save money on electricity bills. “Customers have told us that saving money is their top priority,” said Steven Scheurich, vice president of customer service for Entergy’s Louisiana utilities. “While our Louisiana customers’ rates are well below regional and national averages, increased power usage to battle summertime heat still raises bills – typically making them some of the highest of the year. There’s no better time than now for customers to be equipped with practical, convenient solutions to manage energy costs.” In May, Entergy introduced the “Save Money” program to provide customers with more resources and tools to help lower energy costs. At entergy.com/savemoney, customers interact with a virtual advisor to access information about energy-saving tools and bill-management programs unique to their situations. The advisor is part of Entergy’s new suite of self-service, easy-touse tools to help customers understand their bills, learn about different payment options and discover easy energy- and money-saving ideas they can implement at home. Features available at entergy.com/savemoney include step-by-step videos and printouts on energy-saving home projects, energy-saving calculators and account-management options – such as Level Billing – to help customers manage energy costs more PAGE 18
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effectively year-round. Here are just a few of the many top energy-efficiency steps customers can take to save money: • Heating and cooling can account for up to 40 to 80 percent of your energy usage. Set your thermostat to 78 or the highest comfortable temperature. Each degree cooler than 78 will increase your bill as much by as 3 percent. A programmable thermostat can set your air conditioner to 80 degrees or higher when you’re away. • Dirty air filters make your air conditioner work harder. Wash aluminum mesh filters and replace fiberglass ones monthly. • Keep the cool air in your home circulating with ceiling, oscillating or box fans. Fans use less power than air conditioners, and circulating air makes you feel cooler and allows you to set your thermostat higher. • Energy-efficiency isn’t just for winter. In eight out of ten houses in the South, leaky ducts waste more energy than any other problem. Use mastic or foil tape to make connections between ducts, vents, heating/cooling units and other ducts airtight. Caulking and weatherstripping also are key to tightening up a drafty home, where the house’s entire air volume must be reheated or re-cooled several times an hour. “Every penny counts in today’s economy, and every step customers take to be more energy-efficient builds on the value of the power that Entergy works every day to provide,” said Scheurich. “We’re focused on providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable electricity to our customers, and we encourage you to take advantage of the many ways available to control energy use, costs and bills.” TJN Volume 4 • Issue 9
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By Randy L. Owen, VP, CTFA
15% Senior Discount All Doctors’ Prescriptions Accepted Experienced Professional Staff • Most Insurance Accepted
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Sometimes included under the heading of “Wealth Management,” your trust, financial and estate plans can take time to develop, but once in place, will save time, expenses and delays upon your death. You should be aware of the following 13 critical wealth management issues. A qualified financial advisor can help you with the following: 1. Investments – Review your portfolio and determine the allocation of your assets. 2. Insurance – Analyze existing life, disability, long-term care and liability insurance. 3. Liabilities – Review the terms, creditors, collateral, etc. for all debt. 4. Qualified Retirement Plan/IRA – Review current contribution amounts, investment alternatives and plan limits 5. Stock Options – Prepare an ‘exercise strategy’ for qualified and non-qualified stock options 6. Business Succession Planning – Develop a succession plan that meets your stated goals 7. Durable Power of Attorney – Review any existing powers of attorney. 8. Gifting to Children/Descendents –
Establish gifting plans for wealth transfer to heirs. 9. Charitable Gifting During Life – Establish an optimal charitable giving plan 10. Titling of Assets – Review current titling to meet client’s estate planning objectives. 11. Executor/Trustee – Review existing executor/trustee designations 12. Distribution Plan at Death to Spouse/Descendents – Review existing estate planning documents in light of a client’s expressed goals and objectives. 13. Charitable Inclinations at Death – Consider alternative gifting strategies to meet charitable goals. As we go through the stages of life, there are times to review our plans for appropriateness, timeliness and to take advantage of any tax law changes. All of these issues must be examined thoroughly to ensure peace of mind for you and your loved ones Seek out a trusted advisor to help you through this process. For more information, contact Randy Owen at Jeff Davis Bank & Trust Company, 4400 Nelson Road, Lake Charles, LA 70605, (337) 478 - 4986.
TJN
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Summer Blood Shortages Early this Year During the summer, blood donations typically decline; at the same time, patient need increases. This summer, LifeShare Blood Centers has experienced an exceptionally steep decline in blood donations and unfortunately an increase in accidents. Area patients – people who are our family, friends and neighbors – need blood every day, regardless of the weather. Blood cannot be manufactured; only people can donate blood to help other people. All blood types are needed especially O- and B-. Potential donors must be at least 16 years old, meet height/weight requirements, feel well and healthy at the time of donation, and eat a well-balanced meal with increased fluid intake prior to donation. They must also know the names and doses of any medications taken, and the reasons for taking the medications. Identification must be presented at the time of donation. Sixteen-year-old donors are required to have a signed Minor Donor Permit form at the time of donation. The form can be printed by
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going to www.lifeshare.org, click on DONATIONG, click on WHOLE BLOOD, and then click on MINOR DONOR PERMIT Form (D08I) and print. Cool Facts About A Hot Topic Myth: It is not safe to donate blood during hot weather. Fact: Blood donation is safe at any time for healthy donors. All you have to do is use the same common sense that you use to take care of yourself during a heat wave. Here are some suggestions to help you through the heat and enhance your life-saving blood donation experience: • Get a good night’s sleep. • Eat regular meals to make sure that you are not donating on an empty stomach. • Drink plenty of fluids. When you donate blood, your body loses about two cups of fluid. After donation, your body replaces the fluid almost immediately by drawing water into your blood from surrounding tissues. When you arrive at the donation location, drink a bottle of water before you
donate. The value of drinking water 30 minutes before the donation has been found to enhance the donation experience. It proactively replenishes the fluid loss from donation. After you donate, be sure to have a seat in the refreshment area to rest a moment, drink another beverage, and have a snack. Avoid being outdoors in the heat, and avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for a few hours. If you feel light-head-
ed, lie down until feeling better. These small measures can help you beat the heat and make a big difference in enhancing your experience of donating lifesaving blood. How cool is that! To schedule your donation, visit www.lifeshare.org, or contact LifeShare Blood Centers at (337) 436-4932 or locate a convenient mobile blood drive near you. TJN
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You don’t have to go to Houston for first-rate entertainment. Lutcher Theater in Orange, Texas recently announced the headliners for its 2012-2013 season. The lineup promises 15 sensational shows, including many Tony Award winners and nominees, exceptional music, Broadway blockbusters, and big-name stars. Lutcher is a relatively new venue. It opened in 1980 with a sold-out performance by Liberace. The hall seats about 1,450 — large enough to host the big Broadway shows, but small enough to give patrons an intimate entertainment experience. “There’s not a bad seat in the house,” said Lynae Sanford, marketing manager at Lutcher Theater. “Some patrons make the drive over from Houston simply because they like our theater better,” said Managing Director Jim Clark. Annual attendance at Lutcher is around 30,000 adults and children. According to Sanford, they are presently the largest performing arts series between Houston and New Orleans.
Cirque Chinois
THE SEASON “We have a truly eclectic season this year,” Sanford said. “There’s something for everyone.” Lindsey Buckingham opens the star-studded lineup on Aug. 19. This former-Fleetwood Mac front man takes the stage solo – just him and his arsenal of custom-made guitars. Buckingham recently won a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Fleetwood Mac.
Cirque Chinois comes from Beijing, China. These international award-winning acrobats perform the Great Teeterboard, the Grand Flying Trapeze, Group Contortion, and many more spectacular signature acts. Founded in 1953, the National Circus of the People’s Republic of China is the longest running and most distinguished circus troupe in China. Catch Me If You Can is based on the hit DreamWorks film and the incredible true story that inspired it. This new Broadway musical tells the story of Frank W. Abagnale, Jr., a teenager who runs away from home
By Angie Kay Dilmore A Chorus Line
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Lindsey Buckingham
Shoji Tabuchi
Catch Me If You Can with nothing more that his boyish charm, a big imagination, and millions of dollars in forged checks. He successfully poses as a pilot, a doctor and a lawyer—living the high life and winning the girl of his dreams. But when Frank’s lies catch the attention of FBI agent Carl Hanratty, Carl chases Frank to the end . . . and finds something he never expected. A Chorus Line is generating a lot of buzz. “Many people are excited about A Chorus Line,” Sanford said. “They’ve either seen it before and want to see it again, or they’ve never seen it and want to. It’s reaching a whole new generation of theatergoers.” Winner of nine Tony Awards, including “Best Musical” and the Pulitzer Prize for drama, this singular sensation returns for an all-new tour. The Midtown Men took Broadway by storm in the wildly popular musical Jersey Boys, one of the biggest hits of all-time. Now, they’re together again, performing hits from 1960s bands including the Beatles, the Beach Boys, Motown, and the Four Seasons. Experience their top-shelf choreography, incredible harmonies, and legendary onstage chemistry. “People who love that kind of music are not going to want to miss them,” Sanford said. “Their whole physicality
and energy is so much fun.” Shoji Tabuchi is a huge draw at Lutcher Theater. For two decades, Tabuchi has presented the hottest must-see show in Branson, Missouri. Jim Clark, Lutcher’s managing director, says Tabuchi holds the record at Lutcher for selling out the most shows in the shortest amount of time. Of all the shows this season, Joan and Bill Hess of Westlake are most looking forward to seeing Tabuchi. “We’ve seen him every time he’s been to Orange and he hasn’t been there in a long time,” said Joan Hess. “We saw him in Branson and we’re very excited that he’s coming back.” William Shatner performs Shatner’s World – we just live in it . . . In this 90minute one-man story-telling show, Shatner relates the stories of his life and career, both humorous and poignant. For an extra $40 per ticket, patrons can attend an after-performance backstage event and meet Shatner, get his autograph, and have a photo taken with him. A portion of the proceeds benefit the All Glory Project, a chari-
ty Shatner’s wife founded which uses animal therapy to help wounded veterans and their families. STOMP. This eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. If you have already seen STOMP, you
can look forward to seeing new material as well as some of your favorite iconic moments. If you have never seen STOMP, see what all the noise is about!
The Midtown Men
THE 2012-2013 SENSATIONAL SEASON • • • • • • • • •
An Intimate Evening with Lindsey Buckingham – Sun. Aug. 19, 8 PM. Cirque Chinois - Sun. Oct. 7, 7:30 PM Catch Me If You Can – Sat. Nov. 3, 7:30 PM A Chorus Line – Sun, Nov. 25, 3 PM The Midtown Men– (2 Shows) Thurs. Nov. 29 & Fri. Nov. 30, 7:30 PM A Christmas With Shoji Tabuchi – Sat, Dec. 15, 7:30 PM Shatner’s World — Mon. Jan. 7, 2013, 7:30 PM STOMP– (2 shows) – Tues, Jan 22 & Wed, Jan. 23, 7:30 PM Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis – Thurs, Feb. 7, 7:30 PM
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• The Pipes and Drums of the Black Watch 3rd Battalion the Royal Regiments of Scotland and the Band of the Scots Guards - Wed, Feb. 20, 7:30 PM • Biloxi Blues– Fri. Mar. 1, 7:30 PM • One Night Of Queen Performed by Gary Mullen and the Works – Mon, Mar. 18, 7:30 PM • Dreamgirls – Fri, Mar. 29, 7:30 PM • Hal Holbrook in Mark Twain Tonight – Thurs, April 9, 7:30 PM • The Addams Family – (2 Shows) Wed, June 19 & Thurs, June 20, 7:30 PM JULY 26, 2012
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William Shatner performs Shatner’s World – we just live in it
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis includes 15 of the finest jazz soloists and ensemble players today under the leadership of this iconic musical director, trumpeter, composer, and educator. They’ll perform a vast repertoire, from rare historic compositions to commissioned pieces, including works by Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and many others. Witness the members of the Black Watch and The Band of the Scots Guards command the stage with a fantastic mixture of color, sound, and military flair. Musicians will captivate
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STOMP
the audience with music from England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. Since 1745, the Black Watch’s music has inspired troops and intimidated adversaries. Today, in addition to serving as musicians, the Scottish pipers and drummers serve in the elite British Army machine gun platoon. Delight in Neil Simon’s hit Broadway comedy Biloxi Blues. Follow the adventures of Eugene Morris Jerome, an aspiring writer who sees himself as an outsider observing the craziness around him and his fellow Army inductees as they struggle through basic training near
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis
Biloxi, Mississippi in 1943. In One Night of Queen, go back to the glam-rock days of the 1970s. Gary Mullen and The Works recreate and celebrate the music of Queen with those timeless anthems that ruled the charts: “We Will Rock You,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Another One Bites the Dust,” “Fat Bottomed Girls,” and “We Are the Champions.” DREAMGIRLS tells the story of an up-and-coming 1960s girl band, and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. With unfor-
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The Black Watch
Hal Holbrook in Mark Twain Tonight
One Night of Queen gettable hits like “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” “One Night Only,” and “Listen,” this Tony and Academy Award winning musical sparkles like never before. Hal Holbrook’s legendary one-man show, Mark Twain Tonight, brings the beloved author to life with irreverent humor and astonishing authenticity. Among years of TV, film, and stage credits, Mr. Holbrook has toured this show every year since 1954, making 2012 his 58th consecutive year. The smash-hit musical comedy The Addams Family rounds out the season on June 19-20, 2013 and
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brings the darkly delirious world of Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley and Lurch to spooky and spectacular life. Lutcher also presents Incredible Kids Events for younger children and families. These seven entertaining shows are performed in the afternoons or early evenings and are very affordable in price. The shows are perfect for school field trips and meet the Texas and Louisiana State learning criteria. BUY A SEASON SUBSCRIPTION Lutcher Theater offers various packages for season subscriptions
including two Premiere Package options offering 10-15 shows. The Spotlight Saver Package is also available, allowing patrons the opportunity to create their own combination package of four or more shows. This package ranges in price from only $60 to $240 per person. There are many benefits to buying a season subscription. You’ll be invited to members-only events. You’ll be the first to learn about upcoming shows. And, having the same great seats show after show is definitely a perk. Premiere Package subscribers (10-15 shows) get the best seats in the
A section - center orchestra. They also receive ticket exchange privileges. Spotlight Packages (4-9 shows) give subscribers discounted seats in the side orchestra and balcony. Shirley and Walter Gain have been ticketholders for 22 years. When they first moved to Lake Charles, Shirley attended a Newcomers Club meeting. “I won a prize – two tickets to Lutcher Theater,” she said. They’ve been subscribers ever since. The Gains are most excited about seeing The Addams Family. They’ll celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary that day!
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The Addams Family
Are you stuck for a gift idea for that hard-to-buy-for person? Lutcher subscriptions make great gifts. The Gains’ four daughters chip in and buy their parents a season subscription each year for Christmas. Joan and Bill Hess also enjoy their season subscriptions. “We like to go to shows,” Joan said. “All our lives, we’ve done that. We like the musicals a lot. It’s a night out.” They attend Lutcher with their neighbors, Fred and Alice Fanta, who purchase season tickets at the same time. Having a season subscription enables ticket holders to attend shows they might not have otherwise attended. Last season, the Hesses saw Blue Man Group. “We’d never heard of them,” she said. “But we loved the show. You never know. They’re all good. There have been very few shows we’ve been disappointed in over the years.” Dr. Stacy McBroom, a urologist at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, attends every Lutcher show with her husband Curtis, her 15-year-old daughter, 12-year-old son, her mother, and her daughter’s friend. “It’s a beautiful theater. It’s not
something you would expect in a small town,” she said. “They have high-quality Broadway shows close to us without having to drive to Houston or Austin. My daughter is very interested in theater. She does a lot of theater here in town and that’s what got us into going there. We all enjoy it. It’s a wonderful experience all around.” In many ways, Lutcher Theater is Orange’s best-kept secret. “A lot of folks are surprised if it’s their first time at Lutcher,” Clark said. “They say, ‘I had no idea there was a theater like that in Orange!’” Want in on the secret? To reserve your season tickets, for more information, or to receive a season brochure, please contact the Lutcher Theater box office at (409) 886-5535. For additional show information, visit the Lutcher Theater website at www.lutcher.org. Tickets for individual events will go on sale July 26. The Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts is located at 707 Main St., Orange, Texas and is a program of the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation. TJN
DREAMGIRLS
LUTCHER INCREDIBLE KIDS EVENTS • The Man Who Planted Trees – Sept. 30, 2 & 5:30 PM; Oct. 1, 9:30 & 11:30 AM (1 Hour Show) • Clifford The Big Red Dog - Live! – Nov. 16, 7 PM. • The Ugly Duckling & The Tortoise and the Hare — Oct. 18, 9:30 & 11:30 AM (1 Hour Show) • Guess How Much I Love You & I Love My Little Storybook – Dec. 6 9:30 & 11:30 AM (1 Hour Show) PAGE 26
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• Adventures of Huckleberry Finn – Jan. 28, 2013, 10 a.m. (2 Hour Show) • The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs – Feb. 1, 2013, 9:30 & 11:30 AM. (1 Hour Show) • ImaginOcean — March 8, 9:30 & 11:30 AM (1 Hour Show)
Volume 4 • Issue 9
Gov. Bobby Jindal hailed Louisiana’s highest-ever business climate ranking – No. 5 by Business Facilities – as a fresh signal of Louisiana’s emergence as one of America’s top climates for business investment and job creation. Louisiana rose from No. 7 in 2011 to No. 5 in the magazine’s 2012 State Rankings Report, after the state had climbed into the Top 10 at No. 8 in 2010, when Business Facilities also named Louisiana its State of the Year. “This ranking speaks volumes about our work to eliminate burdensome business taxes, rein in excessive spending, reform our ethics system, and overhaul our workforce development system,” Gov. Jindal said. “The ranking demonstrates that our efforts are paying off, but more important-
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ly, it shows that the business world is taking notice of Louisiana and more and more companies are moving here to create jobs and opportunity for our people. Although the announcement is great news, we are not stopping here. We will not be satisfied until Louisiana is the best place in the world for businesses to invest and create jobs so that all of our sons and daughters can pursue their dreams right here at home.” Louisiana’s No. 5 Business Facilities ranking continues a trend of rising business climate rankings. Before its upswing began in 2008, Louisiana typically languished in the lower tier of state business climate rankings. Today, Area Development ranks Louisiana No. 6 in the magazine’s Top States for Doing
Business report, while Site Selection magazine ranks Louisiana No. 7 among the best business climates in the U.S. Louisiana now stands at its highest-ever position in every major ranking of state business climates, including those published by Area Development, Business Facilities, CNBC, Forbes, Pollina Corporate Real Estate, Site Selection and Chief Executive. In its 2012 Rankings Report, Business Facilities writes that Louisiana “has married an unmatched workforce training program with a bevy of new incentives that are spurring hot new growth sectors, including digital media.” Since 2008, Louisiana has secured economic development projects that are creating more than 51,500 new direct and indi-
rect jobs, more than $12.6 billion in new capital investment and hundreds of millions in new sales for small businesses across the state. Diverse new investments from leading digital media/technology companies – including CenturyLink, GE Capital, Schumacher Group, Gameloft and EA – along with world-scale investments by such companies as Sasol Ltd., Cheniere Energy, Nucor and others have generated an unprecedented level of business investment interest in Louisiana. Business Facilities has been a leading source of intelligence on corporate expansion and relocation projects since 1968. For more on the 2012 Rankings Report, visit www.businessfacilities.com. TJN
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Children are our future. They deserve the best education and the best opportunities to plan for that future. That’s why the Partners in Education program is so important. The PIE program is a project of the Calcasieu Parish School Board that creates a partnership between a business and a school by enriching the educational process with the company’s direct involvement. The goal is to improve education with the assistance of the private sector. The program, established in 1988 as a collaborative project between the CPSB and the Chamber/Southwest Louisiana, is an opportunity for the school system and the business sector to share its resources, time, talent and expertise. It connects schools and businesses to improve student achievement and foster lifelong learning for the students. Currently, over 240 businesses have partnered with schools in Calcasieu Parish. School partners provide help in a variety of ways. Some provide monetary support and others donate time to help with field trips or class lessons. Employee volunteers from participating businesses serve in a variety of activities supporting special projects; one-time and ongoing events, campus clubs, school garden, libraries, sports
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and after-school programs. The program, through its volunteers from the business sector and broader community, brings real-world relevancy to local classrooms, and helps kids see the direct link to their educational achievement today to their success in the future. It also instills in them the understanding that they are valued and supported by the community. For example, PPG has partnered with Our Lady Queen of Heaven School since 1991, sponsoring its Accelerated Reading program and Soaring Stars award. Louisiana Radio Communications conducts an annual campaign to provide needed school supplies for students a the J.F Kennedy Elementary and also hosts a “First Day of School Breakfast.” Grace Davison Catalysts regularly sponsors programs at Barbe High School to recognize students and teachers for their outstanding work, with the goal of encouraging academic excellence. The list goes on. When businesses take part in the education of these young people, they help strengthen the work force of the future. The Partners in Education program is vital in helping the community and the school system work and grow together. TJN
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Steve Jordan, owner of LA Tank and Central Crude, shown with First Lady Supriya Jindal; Wayne Savoy, Superintendant of Schools; Jill Portie, Principal; and the staff of LeBleu Settlement Elementary.
LA Tank and Central Crude is proud to partner with LeBleu Settlement Elementary. Mr. Jordan was invited to attend the Teacher Appreciation Luncheon along with Louisiana’s First Lady, Supriya Jindal, who spoke at the luncheon and read to the kindergarten class.
It’s back-to-school time, and that means homework—probably your child’s least favorite activity. You can help make the experience as pleasant as possible with the following tips: • Make sure your child has a quiet, well-lit place to do homework. Avoid having your child do homework with the television on or in places with other distractions, such as people coming and going. • Make sure the materials your child needs, such as paper, pencils and a dictionary, are available. Ask if special materials will be needed for some projects and get them in advance.
• Help your child with time management. Establish a set time each day for doing homework. Don’t leave homework until just before bedtime. Think about using a weekend morning or afternoon for working on big projects, especially if the project involves getting together with classmates. • Be positive about homework. Tell your child how important school is. The attitude you express about homework will be the attitude your child acquires. • When your child does homework, you do homework. Show your child that the skills they are learning are related to things you do as an adult. If your child is reading, you read too. If your child is doing math, balance your checkbook. • When your child asks for help, provide guidance, not answers. Giving answers means your child will not learn the material. Too
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much help teaches your child that when the going gets rough, someone will do the work for him or her. • When the teacher asks that you play a role in homework, do it. Cooperate with the teacher. It shows your child that the school and home are a team. Follow the directions given by the teacher. • If homework is meant to be done by your child alone, stay away. Too much parent involvement can prevent homework from having some positive effects. Homework is a great way for kids to develop independent, lifelong learning skills. • Stay informed. Talk with your child’s teacher. Make sure you know the purpose of homework and what the class rules are.
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• Help your child figure out what is hard homework and what is easy. Have your child do the hard work first. This will mean he will be most alert when facing the biggest challenges. Easy material will seem to go fast when fatigue begins to set in. • Watch your child for signs of failure and frustration. Let your child take a short break if she is having trouble keeping her mind on an assignment. • Reward progress in homework. If your child has been successful in homework completion and is working hard, celebrate that success with a special event (e.g., pizza, a walk, a trip to the park) to reinforce the positive effort. Source: US Department of Education TJN
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SOWELA
Transforming Inside and Out SOWELA Technical Community College is transforming before our eyes, with an expanded mission as well as large-scale construction projects completed, in progress, or starting soon for 2012-13. “We’re not you’re granddaddy’s old trade school anymore,” said Chancellor Dr. Neil Aspinwall — a catch phrase he has repeated to business groups, civic organizations and the media since taking the reins in June SOWELA—the state’s fastestgrowing school, in terms of enrollment—offers education and training five ways: career education, leading to an associate degree or certificate; transfer education, for those who will transfer to a four-year college; transitional studies, for remediation; not-forcredit continuing education; and industry training, in which employers partner with SOWELA for contracted instruction. Its programs include process
technology, aviation maintenance technology, nursing and allied health, electrical and plumbing apprentice, and industrial electrician and instrumentation. Also, SOWELA has quadrupled the number of courses that transfer to four-year colleges, such as McNeese. While meeting its new mission as a comprehensive community college, SOWELA “is maintaining its commitment to highquality career and technical programs, which are hallmarks of the college,” Aspinwall said. Also, the appearance of the campus is changing dramatically. The new Phillips 66 Process Technology Center opens this fall, while the Arts & Sciences Center is currently under construction. Going up next will be the Nursing and Allied Health Center. For more information about SOWELA, visit www.sowela.edu or call 491-2698. TJN
Fall Registration for
GED Classes The Adult & Continuing Education Center services individuals in need of a GED. The fall registration calendar is as follows: Initial Registration: July 30-Aug. 10 Fee: $25 Testing & Orientation: Aug. 13-23 Classes begin Aug. 27 Registration for new students after Aug. 10: Open enrollment begins Sept. 4 and ends Nov. 15 for fall semester. Fee: $25 Students may register at the Adult & Continuing Education Center located at 1015 6th Ave. in Lake Charles or attend evening class at E.K. Key School in Sulphur. Classes in Pre-GED, GED, ESL and basic computer skills are offered. Class schedule Day classes at 1015 6th Ave. Lake Charles Mon.-Thurs.: 8-2 p.m., closed Fridays Evening classes: Mon.-Thurs 4-7 p.m. Evening class at E. K. Key School, 1201 E. Burton St., Sulphur: Mon. and Tues.: 4-7 p.m. For more information, call the Adult Ed. Office at 217-4220. TJN PAGE 32
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Store shelves are filled with school supplies and parents are frantically running around town to pick up everything their children will need to go back to school. One
thing that might be overlooked, but should be placed on any back-toschool to-do list, is readjusting to an early-to-bed/early-to-rise schedule for kids. In a perfect world, children and adults alike should aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time year-
round. However, part of the fun of summer is staying up later so the start of a new school year is the perfect time to get children and the entire household on a good sleep schedule. “Sleeping well is critical for everyone in the house but for kids in particular. Research shows that not getting enough sleep affects school performance and also can lead to attention and behavior problems,” said Michelle Zimmerman, nurse practitioner for the Sleep Disorder Center of Louisiana. School age children require nine to 10 hours of sleep at night. With an early wake up call to make it to school on
time, this means children need to be in bed earlier at night. Getting back into this routine after summer vacation can be a challenge. Zimmerman recommends starting any new bedtime routine two weeks prior to the start of the new school year. “Like anything else, it takes time for something to become a habit. It is best to gradually ease children back into their bedtime routine,” Zimmerman said. “Start by putting them to bed 30 minutes earlier than what they have been used to and continue to adjust that number until they are going to bed at the desired time.” Another tip is to begin waking your child up 30 minutes earlier once you start setting the earlier bedtime. Sleeping in too late will make it more difficult for the child to keep an early bedtime. They simply won’t be tired or sleepy. For more information on this and other sleep disorders, call the Sleep Disorder Center of Louisiana at (337) 310-7378 or visit www.sleepdisordercenterofla.com.
TJN
National Certifications Available
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Volume 4 • Issue 9
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You’re in Charge • Habit 2: Begin With the End in Mind – Have a Plan • Habit 3: Put First Things First – Work First, Then Play • Habit 4: Think Win-Win – Everyone Can Win • Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood – Listen Before You Talk • Habit 6: Synergize – Together Is Better • Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw – Balance Feels Best
The Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance and the FranklinCovey organization see Southwest Louisiana as a potential epicenter to be a “Leader In Me” Center for Greatness. They are seeking funding from the I Am A Leader Foundation and the business community of Southwest Louisiana to bring “The Leader In Me” initiative to every public elementary school in the five parish region (Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron and Jeff Davis) by mid-2015. “Southwest Louisiana has an edge over other regions throughout the nation and the world due to the team mentality between our school system leadership and the business community,” said George Swift, president/CEO of PAGE 34
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the SWLA Economic Development Alliance. “Everyone is working together to make this happen. Our Workforce Development Team (Nancy Kelley and RB Smith) has approached all school board superintendents in our region and have been working closely with FranklinCovey representatives to make this happen.” “The Leader in Me” is a process that nurtures the innate abilities within each child to be responsible, involved, confident, and collegial. Using the leadership principles of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, this model is integrated into a school’s foundation. It is not “another program” with a “have to do” mentality, but a process for building leadership from the inside out; administration, staff, community stakeholders, and students are all involved.
Each year the model grows as part of the culture, gains momentum and produces improved results. The model: • Develops students who have the skills and self-confidence to succeed as leaders in the 21st century. • Decreases discipline referrals. • Infuses the language of leadership through total immersion by effective implementation of modeling, curriculum, instruction, physical environment, traditions, and systems. • Improves academic achievement. • Raises levels of accountability and engagement among both parents and staff. “The Leader in Me” process also helps to create a common language within a school and builds upon the proven leadership skills found in the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: • Habit 1: Be Proactive –
Currently, Dolby Elementary and Oak Park Elementary have incorporated “The Leader in Me” into every facet of their school. Four other schools are currently awaiting the funds to begin the process. Together, the community can achieve this goal for the children. “As Dr. Stephen Covey shared, leadership is a choice, and not a position. ‘The Leader in Me’ creates a culture that unleashes every child to lead and share their unique gifts with the world. Through this work, we can forever change how children are prepared for an uncertain future,” said Landon Shewmake, General Manager, FranklinCovey Education Practice. If your company is interested in supporting “The Leader In Me” initiative, please contact Alliance Foundation Development Director Ann Barilleaux at abarilleaux@allianceswla.org or (337) 433-3632. TJN Volume 4 • Issue 9
FALL 2012 COURSE SCHEDULE CLASS
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ABC Students must be 16 years of age. The Fall 2012 semester will begin on Aug. 6, 2012 and end on Dec. 20, 2012. Our office hours are Mon.,Thurs. 8am to 6:30pm. Holidays are Labor Day and Thanksgiving Day.
Electrical Electrical Electrical Electrical
1 2 3 4
START DATE
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Aug 6, 2012 Aug 7, 2012 Aug 6, 2012
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M/W T/TH T/TH
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Mobile Crane 1
Aug 6, 2012
M/W
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Call or visit ABC Training Center for more information.
222 Walcot Road, Westlake, LA 70669 • (337) 882-0204 • www.abcpelican.org Volume 4 • Issue 9
JULY 26, 2012
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ker n Shouma o d n a r B y B
Let the Games Begin I don’t know about you, but the 2012 London Summer Olympics is two days away from its opening ceremony and I’m stoked. I’ve always had an affinity for the Summer Games. When I was a kid, they would be on television during the summer and I remember seeing most of the 1992 Barcelona and 1996 Atlanta games.
I remember liking them so much because they played some of the same sports that I played and that there was no figure skating. The girls at school liked figure skating and I wasn’t a girl. Anyway, I remember seeing some of the biggest moments in Olympic history, though I didn’t know how significant they were at the time. Watching the basketball event in 1992, I had no idea the impact the United States’ Dream Team, featuring my all-time favorite basketball players Larry
Bird and David Robinson, destroying its international competition was having on the sports world. I was watching with my family when Kerri Strug made her nowlegendary vault in Atlanta in 1996 and I remember Michael Johnson’s gold shoes, but I didn’t understand that he was breaking a 16-year-old world record and that his time would stand for another 12 years, a remarkable thing in sprinting. But, beyond all the passion and drama, I think I enjoy the Olympics because it’s both familiar and new at the same time.
There is literally something for everyone, sports fan or not. There’s something for the traditional, bigthree type sports fans (basketball, track and field), fans of violence (boxing, taekwondo), hunters (shooting, archery), drama majors (gymnastics, Brazil’s women’s soccer team), and Mitt Romney (dressage equestrian, the Lord’s Cricket Ground). I am one of those Olympics fans who kind of just like to watch whatever is on, whether it’s a sport with which I am already familiar or something I’ve never seen before. I have, however, made sure to make a few events appointment viewing.
• Aug. 9th - 10am-1pm Back to Business Day Visit your new classroom and meet your teacher • Aug. 15th - 1st full day of school 1/2 day for Pre K & K (girls only) • 1:30pm Feast of the Assumption and Jul./Aug. Birthday Mass • 6pm PTO Meeting • Aug. 16 - Full day for 1st-8th Grade 1/2 day of school PreK & K (boys only) • Aug. 17th - 7pm-9:30pm Diocesan Middle School Dance ICCS Gym • Aug. 31st - 8:30am School Mass at Immaculate Conception Cathedral Look for school wide mailing in July or visit our website www.iccschool.org for more information
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Of course, I will be watching every nanosecond of the men’s and women’s soccer tournaments; the women’s Team USA has a chance for a gold medal while 15 men’s teams try to beat Spain for the gold medal. The men’s tournament features some great storylines. For example, Great Britain, home of the world’s best club league (the English Premier League), will be playing, strangely enough, in the Olympics for the first time since 1960. And of course, on the women’s side, there is the distinct possibility of a USA-Japan rematch of the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup championship. Men’s basketball will be another event locked into my DVR with the United States a gold contender here as well. Track and field, too. I’ll definitely be catching the men’s swimming competition, not because Michael Phelps could possibly win even more gold medals than he did at Beijing, but because I want to see if Phelps tries to drown teammate Tyler Clary for calling him lazy. But, this Olympics, I’m also going to go out of my way to find some of the Games’ more esoteric events instead of just stumbling upon them while changing channels. Events like sprint canoeing, for example. Frankly, sprint canoeing sounds dirty and probably quite dangerous, so sign me up for that telecast. I’ve spent a good bit of time trying to figure out why you would need to sprint in a canoe and all I’ve come up with are Deliverance-type hillbillies, flash floods and, America’s greatest threat according to Stephen Colbert, bears. Incidentally, did you know there is an International Canoe Federation? Neither did I, but I doubt they would sanction the canoeing (the inebriated-on-theWhiskey Chitto variety) with which I’m most familiar. Another destination event for me will be table tennis. At one point during the 2008 Beijing games, I woke up every morning at 5:30 a.m. (for some reason) to find the table tennis tournament being aired. Apparently, table tennis has been an Olympic sport since 1988, but up until that point, I had no clue. Why, you ask, as I did, is pingpong an Olympic sport? Because, at the international level, the sport is mesmerizing. This is totally unlike the ping-pong you and your budVolume 4 • Issue 9
dies play in the garage. That game stops every five minutes for someone to reach behind the water heater and into a horror of spider webs to retrieve the latest mis-hit ball. Olympic ping-pong is a hypnotizing mix of bending, physicsdefying ping-pong balls, the soothing click of the ping-pong ball on the table, and the hurried rushing of the players. It’s the Bob Ross of Olympic sports. Once you start watching, you can’t stop. Badminton is about the same as
table tennis, except without the clicking, clacking ball. I’ll be watching that, too. Fencing has swords, shooting has guns, and beach volleyball has babes. Check, check, and check. I think by the end of it, my DVR is going to hate me. With events playing on every NBC channel, subchannel, and backchannel, I can understand why. With so much variety to choose from, the DVR is going to stay full and I’m going to be a happy sports fan.
Brandon Shoumaker is a graduate of McNeese State University and has covered sports for more than a decade for various publications. Coaches or par- Brandon Shoumaker ents with story tips or comments may contact Brandon at bshoumaker@yahoo.com or send him a message on Twitter (@bshoumaker).
TJN
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By Mary Louise Ruehr
Have You Caught ‘Olympic Fever’ Yet? The 2012 Olympic Games begin July 27 in London. Are you excited? Let these books get you into the Olympic spirit. Chris Cleave’s new novel Gold follows three highly competitive worldclass British cyclists who work out together and grow up together. All three are looking to take home Olympic gold. Zoe is not just competitive; she will do just about anything to win, to the point of being unstable. Kate is just as good a rider and as committed to the sport, but has a healthier relationship with life. She
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misses her first chance at the Olympics, where Zoe wins gold, to stay home with her newborn daughter, Sophie. Kate’s husband, Jack, is also a gold-medalist. The reader follows the three cyclists as they prepare for three Olympic games, change over the years, and deal with life’s crises, including Sophie’s devastat-
ing illness. In fact, little Sophie is a major character who escapes to the world of “Star Wars” to battle her disease and to find the Jedi strength to put on a good front so her parents can race without worrying about her. The well-plotted story and flashbacks take us through an obstacle course of emotions and revealed secrets to fill the characters’ back stories with life. The complex Zoe lives and breathes cycling. She’s a champion who can’t deal with everyday life. She and Kate are evenly matched in their sport and look forward to competing against each other in the Olympic velodrome, but an 11th-hour rule change determines that one of them will not be able to compete. What does it mean to be a committed athlete? Knowing that your time in the sport is limited, what would you do to win? What would you do to save your child? There’s plenty here to think about and talk about. (Attention, book clubs!) Here’s some of Cleave’s gorgeous writing: “Inside this room now, with the monitors on, time was a diamond cut by Sophie’s breathing and polished by her pulse. As long as these sounds persisted, it was crystalline.” And when the coach smiles at Zoe to encourage her, “She tried to smile back. The smile came out like a newborn foal: its legs buckled immediately.” And finally, “Looking after a very sick child was the Olympics of parenting.”
When I finished, I closed it and said, “That was a good book.” Life is definitely what happens while you’re making other plans. Adult language and situations. In the Water They Can’t See You Cry is a memoir by Amanda Beard with Rebecca Paley. Beard was a member of the U.S. swim team for four Olympic Games and has won seven medals, including two golds. Young Amanda had always been a tomboy. “I never heard of a sport I didn’t like,” she writes. She fell in love with swimming at her big sisters’ swim team practices. When her parents suddenly divorced, she writes, “Water became my getaway. The silent sanctuary was my biggest distraction from the troubles with my family.” As good as she was at swimming, she had a hard time in school, suffering from a mild form of dyslexia, and was terribly self-conscious. At the 1996 Olympics, at the age of 14, she writes, “I was young and dorky” and was embarrassed by the media attention and even by her success. When she turned 15, puberty hit, along with a major growth spurt. In one year she grew six inches and gained 30 pounds. She felt fat and awkward, and her low self-esteem grew into depression. She slowed down in the pool and stopped winning, and her former supporters turned their backs. She writes, “The message wasn’t subtle: you aren’t fast anymore, so you don’t matter.” Volume 4 • Issue 9
As an adult, she became involved in unhealthy relationships with male athletes who tried to control her — and did nothing to help her selfesteem. She developed bulimia, used alcohol and drugs, and began cutting herself. She sums up her experience: “The Olympics is a distorted mirror of life. In the world of the Games, you have four years to prepare for a moment — two minutes, five minutes, maybe a little more — where your entire worth is instantly judged. If you don’t perform up to a certain standard, no matter the reason — a sudden bout of flu or insecurity — you are a failure and everything you worked for over the last four long years counts for nothing.” Beard tried out for the 2012 team but didn’t make it. She says she’ll try again in four years. Off Balance is a memoir by Dominique Moceanu with Paul and Teri Williams. At the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, Moceanu was part of “the Magnificent Seven” women’s gymnastics team that won a team gold medal, a first for U.S. Women’s Gymnastics. Moceanu (“M-oh-chee-ah-noo”) details her life in gymnastics, falling in love with the sport as a toddler and becoming a “serious, committed gymnast” by the age of 7. She had selfesteem issues at school because she was so tiny, and “Gymnastics — the amazing sport that it is — became my outlet and gave me confidence,” she writes. She goes on to describe her training — she’s had 23 coaches in her competitive career — and the book focuses on the years she trained with the popular Romanian coach Bela Karolyi. But in her opinion, he is not the coach sent from heaven that the public thinks he is. What rounds out the book is Moceanu’s discovery in 2007, when she was married and pregnant with her first child, that she had a second sister she had never known about. The reason the child was given up for adoption, which was a result of the circumstances for a woman in Romania in 1980, is startling. Moceanu felt alienated and betrayed, not just by the fact that her parents had given up their baby, but because they had kept it from her all her life. In addition, she became emancipated from her parents at 17 because her father had already “burned through most of my $1 million earnings,” she writes. She is now happily married to fellow gymnast Michael Canales and is the mother of two budding gymnasts. Copyright © 2012 by Mary Louise Ruehr.
TJN
Volume 4 • Issue 9
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Apple Detention Gym Class Homework Lockers
Principal Recess Report Cards School Bus Science Project
Study Teachers Tests Textbooks Uniform
The Dot Game Players take turns connecting two dots. When you make a square, put your initials in the
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box and take another turn. When all dots are connected, the player with the most boxes wins.
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r m ende's Museu l l E an en By D e Childr of th r o t c Dire
The Amazing Spider Man (Marvel Entertainment, 2012) The Amazing Spider Man is the latest in a series of super hero reboots (think Batman Begins) borne of Hollywood’s desire to score a blockbuster on old material. Was it really 10 years ago that we first saw Tobey McGuire in the first big screen view of the webbed wonder? As if it mattered. I suppose in a perfect world, every story would be rewritten every ten years for a new generation. After all, this is the idea
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behind Broadway revivals and Shakespeare festivals. But Spider Man? Once again, we have Peter Parker, nerd (the original term was, get ready, wallflower) and victim of bullies. The wimpy high-schooler is bitten by a radioactive spider, which gives him the powers of a dolphin. Just kidding. A spider. Once he tames his new powers, our hero is able to walk up walls, hit people really hard, and get even with school bullies. This is life changing stuff we’re talking about here. Like every hero these days, Peter Parker has a mysterious past: His father was a research scientist who left home years ago and never came back. The lab where Peter gets bitten by the spider is the one his father
used to work at. The head of the lab is Dr. Curt Connors (Rhys Ifan), a onearmed PhD who used to work with Peter’s dad. Connors is working on cross species genetics, and he hopes to grow new limbs on amputees like himself. Also interning at the lab is Peter’s classmate, Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone), a pixyish girl who takes an interest in Peter. There’s also a big lizard who is Peter’s first super villain, called the Dolphin. No, he’s called the Lizard. Sorry. The rest of the plot is typical stuff. You will find some humor, as when Parker takes spiderlike liking to houseflies. I saw the 3D version and it was effective but not really necessary to enjoy the movie. Though I was disappointed that the movie was so predictable, The Amazing Spider Man hits all the right notes, with the humor, romance, and likeable characters we’ve come to expect from Disney and Marvel Entertainment. In fact, the movie is an excellent one if you’ve never heard of Spider Man. The problem I have is that Marvel has an endless backlog of
stories from years of comic books. Why does it keep on rehashing old ground? But I’m repeating myself. After a big finish, heroine peril, family tragedies, and relationship mending, Peter’s future is left open ended. He’s still in high school and still Spider Man. We’re set up with a sequel in the middle of the end credits, where the Lizard is talking to someone who mentions Peter’s father. Obviously there’s potential for a Darth Vader thing here. Probably the best thing about the movie is Andrew Garfield, who plays the lead character. Garfield previously played Mark Zuckerberg’s friend and partner in The Social Network. As Peter Parker/Spider Man, he could someday be another Tobey McGuire. You and especially your kids will probably love this movie. It’s very upto-date. There’s lots of action, so of course small kids should stay away, but otherwise its okay, with one or two language blurbs thrown in. Oh, well. They’re releasing a remake of Total Recall next month. Looks pretty good. Sigh. TJN
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Look Around I often wonder if my family, friends, and even the strangers around me stop and really look around. I wonder if they notice how many different types of personalities, mannerisms and ethnicities surround them at any given time. Have you stopped and noticed? If so, how often do you really take a break and recognize the small details? As I sat in a comfortable chair at one of my favorite coffee shops one evening, I stopped and looked around. I scanned the room and noticed four people at a table. At first glance, this was just another group, enjoying each other’s company. But beyond the sounds of their voices and laughter was another form of communication: the group was signing. I was immediately fascinated, since it’s such a rarity for me to see this on a daily basis. At the next table were three people who appeared to be studying, although loud clanking sounds came from their table. At a closer glance, I saw that one of the group was using a typewriter, and its case was on the floor next to him. How interesting! Once again, this was not a typical sight for me considering the technology we have today. I then began wondering how often the group fre-
kins n e J n ayli By Br
quented the same coffee shop I so often visit. In one sense, I felt that finding answers to my questions would be awkward, an invasion of their privacy. Another part of me had to know. I decided it was best to continue to observe them before approaching and possibly interrupting them. But the moment finally came. I first approached the typewriter group. The young man told me that using the typewriter was therapeutic, and that he purchased it some time ago on eBay. “It’s a Royal 64, and I had to order the ribbon,” he said. He went on to explain that when using a typewriter, you have to think about what you are writing. “It’s like using a part of your brain that people rarely use because most of us speak without thinking,” he said. One of his friends also had a typewriter and agreed with him on most of his observations. I then approached the next group, and discovered that two of them assist the deaf, and the others had some degrees of deafness. They said that at times, they do receive looks when signing, but that they have never experienced any negativity from anyone because of this, or because they were deaf. “Most of the people who approach us say that they want to learn sign language,” one of the women said.
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“They’re drawn to it.” The group also told me that there are varying degrees of deafness. When I went back to my comfortable chair, I revisited what had just happened. Both groups were welcoming with positive attitudes. They were both very open to explaining and sharing. The experience overall intrigued me. Now, imagine if we decided to take action and explore everything we were curious about. I don’t mean going outside of what you believe, or going against your upbringing. I’m referring to what’s around us. I have met natives of Lake Charles who have never ventured outside of their community, which is unbelievable to me. Some residents have never traveled to different areas of the Lake City and have lived here their entire life. And I can’t grasp the concept that so many people don’t venture off their normal work route. Why is that? Is it convenience or not wanting any change? You have no idea how many times I’ve turned left when I normally go straight and I’ve discovered the most
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amazing neighborhoods, businesses or scenic routes. What if you could have the opportunity to find a new, more enjoyable route to work, the gym, etc., making your day just a tad more joyous? For the next week or two, I challenge you to make this change. Of course, make sure you are not putting yourself in any danger by doing so. And you might want to leave a little earlier if possible in case it adds a little time to your commute. But you just might be surprised. I love diverting on Bord du Lac Drive when I have time. Just driving along the lakefront mellows me out and takes away any stress I may be feeling. Instead of taking Ryan Street on my way to the Central part of town, I like to take Shell Beach Drive to Lake Street. Be sure to make the most of your summer break. (I consider summer to be over when school resumes, even though the summer season actually continues.) Get out and take a breather, even for an hour, because you never know when that chance might just pass you by forever. TJN
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SUMMER POPS 2012 The Lake Charles Symphony opened its 55th season with Summer Pops 2012—“I Hear a Symphony!” The Civic Center Coliseum was the place to be for some good ole Motown memories with a delightful symphony twist. We were entertained with “Heard it Through the Grapevine,” “Stop in the Name of Love,” “A-B-C,“ “My Girl” and so many more familiar songs. If you weren’t there, you missed something special!
Ali Piatt with Derrick, Denise and David Ray
Marla and Jana Stine
Alicia Dilts and Steven Brez
Judith Palavecino, Kathleen Carson and Lydia Taylor
Anna Clair Perkins with Gabriele and Meredith Karam
Veronica Lubin, Belinda Williams and Kimberly Dellafosse
Kellie Rumba with Dr. Keith Desonier
Emily McMillin, Katie Tucker and Joshua Durr
Tiffoni McComb and Madison Peveto
A DAY OF BIG FUN AT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM It was a big day at the Children’s Museum as kids, kids and more kids arrived for some handson exploration in the world of science, arts and humanities. Even a busload of kids on a field trip from Moss Bluff Elementary showed up to enjoy Rowdy’s Cowboy Café, Louisiana Wetlands exhibit, The Bubble Factory, Fire Safety Station, The Nature Center and all the other fun exhibits. For crafty hands, there were classes to learn to make rain sticks. Oh, to be a kid again!
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Maggie LeBouef and Donna Leday
Elise and Brandon Ford
Jayden Myers and Breanna Bonviloian
FRENCH CAJUN MUSIC FESTIVAL This award-winning festival just gets better and better! It was two days of passing a good time with family and friends at the French Cajun Music Festival held at Burton Coliseum. Festival-goers were entertained by Cajun on Demand, Midnight Ramblers, and Ron Granger’s Scrub Board Band, to mention a few, and feasted on local specialties. There were Cajun waltz contests, arts and craft booths, a live auction, visiting queens and royalty, and a French Mass. It’s good to be Cajun! Chris and Remington Johnnie
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Avery Rubben and Amy Byrne
Heather and Madison Haley
Sandi Harris and Terry Darby
Vikki and Sara Brown with Tela Lambert
Cadence and Michelle Johnnie
Wilma Propst, Pat Himel and Roxanne Nutt
Betty and Jim Bergeron
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AD AND PRESS CLUB’S 40TH ANNUAL GRIDIRON SHOW The Ad & Press Club of Southwest Louisiana marked its 40th year of hilarious skits, parodies and jokes about just about anyone and anything that made the news. Many in the crowd were the movers and shakers that were lampooned on stage. Attendees enjoyed social networking prior to the start of the show and specialties from local restaurants and caterers. Proceeds benefit the Ad & Press Club Scholarship Foundation for both McNeese and Sowela. Lots of laughs for a great cause!
TJN
Catina and Lewis Coates
Kevin and Kayla Guidry
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Doug and Gay Gehrig
Msgr. Daniel Torres and Johnny Suydam
David and Janet Ritchie
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TASTING ON THE TERRACE TICKETS ON SALE NOW! On Thurs., Sept. 13 from 6-8:30 p.m., sample more than 50 unique wines and beers. This fun and informative event will be held on the lush Event Center Terrace at L’Auberge Casino Resort and will feature live music, art and experts from the vineyards. Raffle tickets will be available for a Private Chef’s Luncheon at Ember Grille & Wine Bar, a one-of-akind oil painting created live at the event by celebrated Lake Charles artist Candice Alexander, a L’Auberge Pool Party, wine and more! Limited event tickets are now available through Ticketmaster or the L’Auberge Business Center for $40. Tickets will not be available at the door. All attendees receive 20 percent discount off their meal at any L’Auberge restaurant the night of the event. NEW EXHIBIT AT STARK HOUSE THROUGH SEPT. 22 The W.H. Stark House’s new exhibit, “Explore Art: Materials and Methods Revealed” is located in The W.H. Stark House in the adjacent Carriage House at 610 W. Main Avenue in Orange, Texas. It will be on display through Sept. 22. The exhibit explores different materials and techniques used to create art and showcases cut glass, sterling silver and several objects that have never before been on display to the public. Adults and children 10 years of age or older are invited to visit. Located at 610 Main Avenue in Orange, Texas, the W.H. Stark House is open to the public Tues.-Sat. from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. For more information, call (409) 883-0871 or visit www.whstarkhouse.org. MARSHLAND FESTIVAL JULY 27-28 The Marshland Festival originated to support the community, especially kids, through non-profit organizations. In addition to music, there will be a business expo, arts and crafts for sale, kids’ activities and more, including…food! Live music begins at 6 p.m. on Fri., July 27, ending at midnight. On Saturday, July 28, the music will begin at noon and go through the day, ending at midnight. The event will be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center. For a complete schedule, visit www.marshlandfestival.com.
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DUTCH OVEN GATHERING JULY 28 The South West Chapter of the Louisiana Dutch Oven Society announces their monthly cook out. The monthly Dutch Oven Gathering will be held at Sam Houston Jones State Park on Sat., July 28 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and all are invited! The Le Chien Cookers will demonstrate the art of making ice cream in a Dutch Oven as well as other delicious items during this cookout. On the menu are Sassafras Iced Tea, cold salads, cold soups, watermelon and other good desserts. For more information, contact Dwayne or Randy at 302-5025 or 9129394, visit www.ladutch.com or find them on Facebook at www.LeChienCookers.com. BENEFIT AND POKER RUN FOR MARK CRENSHAW JULY 28 There will be a benefit and poker run for cancer patient Mark Crenshaw’s medical expenses at the Starks VFW on Hwy. 12 in Starks on July 28. The event will run from 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. There will be barbecue dinners, raffles, auctions and live bands all day. The poker run begins at 10 a.m. from the Starks VFW. For more info, call Terry Bussell at (409) 656-4675. For poker run info, call Theresa Buxton at (337) 743-6449. VOLUNTEER CENTER CASINO ROYALE FUNDRAISER JULY 28 The Volunteer Center of Southwest Louisiana, Inc. invites the community to their second annual signature event, Casino Royale, set for Sat., July 28 from 7 – 11 p.m. at Reeves Uptown Catering in Lake Charles. Casino Royale features games like blackjack, roulette, poker and craps. Attendees are able to convert the value of the chips they earn from playing the casino games into a cash value towards the live auction. Dealers are happy to teach you how to play! Tickets are $50 per person and sponsorship levels run from $250 to $1,000. All proceeds benefit the Volunteer Center. Interested in sponsoring Casino Royale or purchasing tickets? Call Beverly McCormick at (337) 513-4616 or go to www.volunteercenterswla.org. SHINE FLOURNOY GOLF TOURNAMENT JULY 28-29 The Mallard Cove Men’s Golf Association and First Federal Bank proudly present the 35th Annual Shine Flournoy Golf Tournament, held at Mallard Cove Golf Course on July 28-29, benefiting the Children’s Advocacy Center. The tournament is the oldest and largest in the area and draws players from not only Lake Charles, but also many surrounding communities and cities within Southwest Louisiana. Hole sponsorships are available. Entry fee for a team is $260. Contact Roxanne Camara at roxanne@fyca.org, or (337) 436-9533 to register or for more information.
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PERCY SLEDGE AT TOURNAMENT OF THE STARS JULY 29 The Tournament of the Stars will host their annual scholarship fundraiser Sun., July 29, at the Lake Charles Civic Center beginning at 7 p.m. featuring guest artist Percy Sledge. Each year, the board of directors and staff of the tournament select individuals or companies that exemplify the courage, strength and resolve required to be more than just ordinary. This year’s honoree is Mrs. Pearl Cole, executive director of Abraham’s Tent, who embodies the spirit of hope. Tickets are $75 per person and include dinner. The money raised will go to Calcasieu Parish high school gradPercy Sledge uates pursuing college degrees. For more information, call (337) 4911466. Tickets can also be purchased at www.tournamentofstars.com. ROUGE ET BLANC TICKETS ON SALE JULY 31 Tickets go on sale Tuesday, July 31, for the seventh annual Rouge et Blanc, the premier wine and food event of
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Southwest Louisiana. The event will take place from 2-6 p.m. Sat., Oct. 20, in downtown Lake Charles on Ryan Street between the grounds of the 1911 Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center and the Calcasieu Parish Courthouse. Tickets are $100 per person and are available at www.rougeetblanc.us. Participants must be 21 years old to attend this event. POETRY READING AT THE PORCH AUG. 3 On Friday, Aug. 3, the First Friday Reading Series presents a poetry reading by Patrice Melnick at 7 p.m. at the Porch Coffee House. Writer, arts administrator, educator, and business owner Patrice Melnick is a veritable jack of all trades in the Louisiana writing community. Her essays and poems have appeared in Grain, The Xavier Review, and Prism International among other literary journals. Melnick also established the Festival of Words Cultural Arts Collective in 2010. The Porch is located at 4710 Common Street in Lake Charles, and live music follows each reading. For more information about the reading series, visit www.artsandhumanitiesswla.org. BASKIN SCULPTURE EXHIBIT OPENS AUG. 4 The City of Lake Charles will host “20th Century Artifact Series” by McNeese Professor Kenneth Baskin. An open house will
“Ring” by Professor Kenneth Baskin
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take place Sat., Aug. 4 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in the first floor gallery of the 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center at 1001 Ryan Street. Baskin will be on hand for a meet & greet, refreshments will be served, and viewers are also welcome to visit the Charlestown Farmers Market on site till noon. The exhibition will run through Sept. 21. For more information, call 491-9147. ‘CANDLES AND COCKTAILS’ AUG. 11 The American Cancer Society presents “Candles and Cocktails” at the Isle of Capri Casino on Sat., Aug. 11 beginning at 7 p.m. Enjoy a fun night of cocktails, dinner, auctions, live entertainment and more. Cocktail attire suggested. Tickets are $100 per person and $1,000 for a reserved table of eight. For more information, call (337) 433-5817 or email katie.mccarty@cancer.org. SHANNON COX TENNIS TOURNAMENT AUG. 17-18 The Shannon Cox Memorial Tennis Tournament will be held at the Graywood Sports Club, Aug. 17 and 18. All proceeds will benefit Family & Youth’s Shannon Cox
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Counseling Center. Fri. events include adult/child fun shootout, mixed doubles, Calcutta bidding, karaoke and family fun. Sat.: wacky tennis attire, doubles, local pro Calcutta, live band and dinner. The cost is $95 ($5 discount until July 28) and includes a gift bag, Fri. evening dinner and karaoke, lunch and dinner on Sat. and live band. To register, call 436-9533 or go to www.fyca.org. ARTS & CRABS FEST AUG. 18 The Arts & Crabs Fest will return on Sat. Aug. 18 from 4-8 p.m. in the Civic Center’s Exhibition Hall. For a $25 wristband, festivalgoers can access an extensive crab and beer tasting which will feature ten restaurants each offering a crab dish that is representative of their cuisine’s styles and personalities. Each crab dish will be paired with a complementary Abita beer sample, which will complement each dish’s unique flavors and textures. Zydeco legend Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience will headline the event with his Grammy award-winning original music. Over a dozen Lake Area artists representing an entire spectrum of art mediums will be featured at the festival, along with local vendors. A limited number of wristbands will be sold, so be sure to purchase yours
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before the event sells out like last year! Wristbands can be purchased online at www.artsandhumanitiesswla.org. CAJUN RUG HOOKERS ‘HOOK-IN’ AUG. 18 Drag out your hooking, renew your friendships and come and have fun with us at the “Hook-In” on Aug. 18 at the Family Hall at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church on 123 W. Sale Rd, Lake Charles. Invite a friend who’s interested. Bring finished pieces to show and don’t forget your camera. All rug hookers of any experience, any cut and any pattern are invited. The event is from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and includes lunch, refreshments and donation for hall. To register, contact Amzi Collins at 437-3902, or Amzi@Att.Net LINDSEY BUCKINGHAM AT LUTCHER AUG. 19 Savor this intimate evening with Lindsey Buckingham: one man and his arsenal of custom guitars. Earning a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Fleetwood Mac, winning countless awards, selling out venues around the world, and helping define the sound of rock for the last three decades, he is the predominant musical force behind such Mac albums as Rumours and the innovative Tusk, and has created a critically acclaimed body of solo work. Performance is at 8 p.m. Aug 19 at the Lutcher Theater in Orange, Texas. For more information, contact the Lutcher Theater box office at (409) 886-5535. Tickets will go on sale July 26. The Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts is located at 707 Main, Orange, Texas. TJN
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 25 • TBA @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. THURSDAY, JULY 26 • Consequence of Silence @ Happy Hippie Pizza, 4 p.m. • Jeff Thibodeaux & Friends @ DI’s Cajun Restaurant, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Friends of Louisiana @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Paul Gonsoulin @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 8 p.m. • Eve Six/DJ Pauly D @ Liquid Society, L’Auberge Casino, 8:30 p.m. • DJ Cage @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 10 p.m. FRIDAY, JULY 27 • Pete Bergeron & The Bayou Boys @ DI’s Cajun Restaurant, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Street Side Jazz Band @ Stellar Beans, 7 p.m. • Karma @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Kris Harper @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 7:30 p.m. • Kevin Naquin & Ossun Playboys @ Yesterday’s, 8 p.m. • Nothing More @ Luna Live, 9 p.m. • Sean Vidrine @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m.
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• Password @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • DJ San-D @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 10 p.m. SATURDAY, JULY 28 • Whiskey South @ Lake Charles Civic Center, Noon • Scotty Pousson & The Pointe aux Loups Playboys @ DI’s Cajun Restaurant, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Karma @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Reed Planchard @ Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen, DeRidder, 7:30 p.m. • Nothing More @ Luna Live, 8 p.m. • Caleb Smith/Lochness Mobsters @ The Porch, 8 p.m. • 70Times7/Demise of Praedo @ Twiggy’s, 8 p.m. • Steel Shot @ Yesterday’s, 8 p.m. • Da Classics @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. • Password @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • DJ San-D @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 10 p.m. SUNDAY, JULY 29 • Aaron Istre & Under the Influence @ Mary’s Lounge, 5 p.m.
• Warren Storm/Willie Tee & Cypress @ Yesterday’s, 6 p.m. TUESDAY, JULY 31 • Paul Tassin Trio @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 6 p.m. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1 • TBA @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. • Stellar @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • DJ Jose Mata @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 10 p.m. THURSDAY, AUGUST 2 • Don Fontenot & Les Cajuns de la Prairie @ DI’s Cajun Restaurant, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Twangsters Union @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Travis Matte/Chris Ardoin @ Liquid Society, L’Auberge Casino, 8:30 p.m. • DJ Cage @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 10 p.m. FRIDAY, AUGUST 3 • Howard Noel & Cajun Boogie @ DI’s Cajun Restaurant, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Karma @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Bobcat/The Kid Carsons @ Luna Live, 8 p.m. • Phillip Glyn & Daze @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. • Primetime Band @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m.
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• DJ Trashy @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 10 p.m. SATURDAY, AUGUST 4 • Briggs Brown & The Bayou Cajuns @ DI’s Cajun Restaurant, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Karma @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Michael Prysock @ The Porch, 8 p.m. • Mark Reeves Band @ Wayne & Layne’s, Sulphur, 9 p.m. • Herbie Stutes & The Grand Shin @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. • Primetime Band @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • Ashes of Babylon @ Luna Live, 10 p.m. • DJ Trashy @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 10 p.m. TUESDAY, AUGUST 7 • Larry McCullough Trio @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 6 p.m. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 8 • TBA @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 7 p.m. • Soul Vacation @ Caribbean Cove,
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Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 8 p.m. • DJ Cage @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 10 p.m. THURSDAY, AUGUST 9 • Homer LeJeune & The Kajun Kings @ DI’s Cajun Restaurant, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • Warren Storm/Willie Tee & Cypress @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • Vertical Horizon @ Liquid Society, L’Auberge Casino, 8:30 p.m. • DJ Cage @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 10 p.m. FRIDAY, AUGUST 10 • Jamie Berzas @ DI’s Cajun Restaurant, Basile, 6:30 p.m. • No Idea @ Mikko, Coushatta Casino, Kinder, 7 p.m. • X-It 43 @ Caribbean Cove, Isle of Capri Casino, Westlake, 9 p.m. • BB & Company @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs, Vinton, 9 p.m. • DJ Jose Mata @ Jack Daniels Bar & Grill, L’Auberge Casino, 10 p.m.
TJN
Affordable Elegance Ribbon-Cutting Aug. 8 There’s a fabulous new home furnishings and décor store in Lake Charles, and they’ll be celebrating with a ribbon-cutting with the Chamber Southwest Louisiana on Wed., Aug. 8 at 1 p.m. Affordable Elegance is located at 925 Enterprise St. in downtown Lake Charles and is chock-full of unique items that you won’t find anywhere else in the area, all reflecting owner Denise Miller’s tasteful eye. “My store a one-stop shop,” she said. “We have everything you need for your home. And if we don’t have it, we can get it for you.” Store hours are currently 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Mon.-Fri. and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, but they may eventually change. “We’re playing the hours by ear,”
Miller said. “We’re going to give it awhile and see if they work.” Miller said it’s been a lot of hard work and sweat getting the store ready, but now that it’s open, it’s been well worth it. “Owning my own store is a dream come true,” she said. “I still can’t believe that it’s mine.” Affordable Elegance, 925 Enterprise St., Lake Charles (corner of Second Ave.). (337) 377-6616. TJN
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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, fesr r nalist, a it e r , a organiz ation pr rtist manager lbum , t e attorney s , and p ident, entertain rade r ment e Museum sident o f She pre of Southwest the Music fe L eclectic rs all things ouisiana. , and musicall GRAM y votes M Recordin Ys as a mem on the g Aca ber o reached at leslie@ demy. She c f the an leslieber man.co be m. im h s d e e c s c cau a su e which onfined to pitals wher red. o s c to be mental ho d be monit sands of nty,” e l l P f o u o f gs th u co so s),” sion toms d in 1967, and drawin aasture t Los Gato ,” p P m “ y ” , s ’ A niz gs ou die llin his er he dy’s writin profit orga gton’s Trave lane Wreck To Know Y a’s t f d r A a o n n “H ic Good rtee (P of of Wo d a no Hunti Amer pages rchived, an ombating ily. 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Chec e Swift est Louis ge, we qui uced an d l t s a d e w u p f t d a t y h o f i c a o Th A Sout usical her 12 had pr and talen a for C rek made b in The Gr into Wo housands o ort of mira venue or e of m o e 9 h v m e 1 t A i y a t h r l t l st s e d a s d g rich e class of , inven f whom w col- Ok pression – ted movin e develope nta- hi n nothing ’s Mermai l to get a ta e v i h t t a t o e i e e ee y cr m pic hr be agg De tha e to ously er Wh y Gut s, man l, as de illy Br al com ts wer r out B atics Wond rie songs. sands th – Wood d colloqui came a “fe enorm of musician first projec h and info brated f e g cele posia, t a n i h o r b r n m p a t i w z u ) . u e e u c W s e r o s i o l b e G t f H d r t i l w K . o g is So oody ic sym tervie uppor cial cr year-o nnial red as nd ving. new W ody’s cente ith academ sonian the so remembe -member s ote his still li d archive in e then 90+ omposer a c r ’s s n Wo e world w , a Smith rdings, tor he veler” (no arty, and w l observalect an about tho azz pianist, epherd , reco nces h a r j d th a n r P i e S o t d c i t e d t m aroun l reminisce t and other ncountable Srea low mmunis mn of so ir Daily lud her, Goo ma c K n i e g y r e a o e The ry e Lutc st Geo music ys boxed s rams, and u th, the POS t the C y Sez” colu cent for th phasizing t Nelli rch organi he Hackber d a c d g s a m i a h on o o w l e t r i a k o ’s s l p c e w y o F “W n a rub vo ds last m hrie tribute u TV e an lwa Chu bers of t r e a l n o d a , h o n r t w p b a i e t r s o t o radio ngs. In jus oody Gu ttended. 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The foo ist – and o scist, anti-r up, writing ’s most po the cl picious yea untry, as m ere born u p w o w a s o o c r u f e fect c , Connecti modern t sual flaanti- with the g of the gro the United an au hout the c musicians o, Minni a u g m n s s d o d h n o u r o t Uni home wit ursts of u ts, delithro artists an e Perry C opkins an p song and othe ent in WWII, and w y , b ” u s d d i n H r d e o u h o i ’ d w h n o it e en gr Ma acto hey incl Lightnin gs. W t Marine i afted into t and do dwiches w ected ingr es like tellar rie n s T o t , s . a e r n h g p n t ol x s th san u la the John Ca ercha rge, was dr he married n, d une sink casser hatever wa mong oody” Gu Dust M n A , a s l . e i r s y t t a , r l a l a o h h t k o W w . n e c v S g Pe o S “ t s e h u o i h h t e h r t n wi nig is d org urlo a kitc nB ilso ay), cious ight make Thursday d after h While on f d Avenue i d prolific Sir Ge oodrow W Bastille D , Oklahom e n m n , i . h k o s a a y a W mom the fridge re you loo Arm to Merm t creative iter was July 14, ye m Okem f “Alice’s s o d e r a d o r o n e n h f n i n w hild is m nd song left mov (bor alladeer thrie the imagi veryw back a g his c a s B lo Gu te of h And e es of hard nded for the si s a lyricist hy detailin r Glory, wa or Bowl ther of Ar who fired lin’ Jack f nd p a a ) f , inte b shelv were ack books le eating, a work autobiogra , Bound Fo er adapted (and f rant” fame and Ram e number o i n a b s t s l c u Hi rding paper to read wh ee (up to Resta f Bob Dyla uncountab riters in su y. and la lahom r in Ok d in 1943, ’s solo reco he o s a w n d s d a g t n o n g n o o i o diner away for f the end of h t on r-s rese ishe s. Woody 40s, and e m l p s a g b I , e e n u t t i d k h t p a s t 0 9 an to to ta f them!) urdock fam first Ellio gers and , up to of “This L ty he 197 stly in the 1 l he began s t n o n n o i i M e i s t e he f nti thr film ade mo folk g genera omposer ia,” “Pret ,” eal. T fects o med u s each m were m and perfor bilitating ef rly 1950s, ceedin ody is the c n Columb uben Jame e ll O Wo toured b to the de se in the ea ,” “Ro ing of the R d n a a m L k r n u i o S succu gton’s Dise Y d,” “ y o n l i t F Hun Boy
h t 0 0 1 s ’ y d Woo
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JULY 26, 2012
Volume 4 • Issue 9
ily explained that this is their contribution to promoting reading, that the books come from remainders of library sales, estate sales, and the books that customers regularly regift them. The POSSLQ snagged Harry Kemelman’s series mystery, Someday The Rabbi Will Leave, and I read some of Art Buchwald’s humorous commentary on his four months-long stay in hospice and surprising temporary recovery, Too Soon To
Say Goodbye, but left with Stanley Elkins’ critical study, Slavery: A Problem In American Institutional and Intellectual Life. The place was chockablock with familiar bestsellers, classics, oddball novels, and nonfiction of every description, with plenty of children’s books and even a few shelves of CDs. “Those free too?” I asked the waitress. With her nod, I swept out with a fair copy of Bob Dylan’s Highway 61 Revisited. Bonus! TJN
According to a 2001 study of intentional animal abuse published by the Humane Society of the United States, 13 percent of these cases involved incidents of domestic violence, 7 percent coincided with child abuse and 1 percent with elder abuse.
Killin’ Time Crossword ACROSS 1. 5. 8. 12. 13. 14. 15. 17. 18. 20. 21. 22. 25. 26. 29. 33. 34. 35. 36. 38. 40. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51.
Page Bering, e.g. (abbr.) Obedience school command Data "O Sole ___" "___ Karenina" George Lucas epic Sponsor Indomitable Wine holder Like some airports (abbr.) Doctor's order ___ moment Wrigley Field flora Stubbornness ___ shu pork Constrictor Indian tourist stop Neighbor of Senegal Debussy's "La ___" NASA vehicles Ness, e.g. Eclipse ___ Stadium in Queens Fr. title Helen of Troy's mother Military meal
Volume 4 • Issue 9
52. Income statement inits. 53. Belgian river
DOWN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 16. 19. 22. 23. 24. 25. 27. 28. 30. 31. 32. 37. 38. 39.
Actress Virna ___'acte Off yonder Eternally Intelligent Flag "The Barber Of Seville" composer Equestrian's attire Entitling Abbr. on a business letter Camp sight F.D.R. program Holdup Not brilliant Musical Yoko Stands "There ___ tide..." TV adjunct Roll-call vote Up to the task Malodorous Terrestrial Partner of pains Suppresses (sound) U.F.O. crew
40. 41. 42. 43. 44.
Lambaste Ask Hillock Prevaricates "The Neverending Story" author Michael 45. Scorch
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JULY 26, 2012
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