The Jambalaya News - 06/19/14, Vol. 6, No. 6

June 19, 2014 • Volume 6 • Issue 6

715 Kirby St. Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 www.louisianajam.com Publisher Phil de Albuquerque phil@louisianajam.com Executive Editor Lauren de Albuquerque lauren@louisianajam.com Contributors George Cline Dan Ellender Julie Ann Fay Mike McHugh Roger Miller Mary Louise Ruehr Karla Tullos Calvin Tyler Sales sales@louisianajam.com

On cover: The friendly staff at SouthernCare

COVER STORY 32 SouthernCare: Care, Support and Dignity for the Terminally Ill REGULARS 6 We Are SWLA! 8 The Dang Yankee 8 Adoption Corner 9 Tips From Tip 10 Fishin’ Tales FEATURES 4 Bayou Picker Jason Machulski 12 Professionally Clowning Around 15 Effective Wealth Transfer 16 Senior Health 20 Widows & Widowers Get a LIFT!

Graphics Art/Production Director Burn Rourk

THE SPICE OF SWLA 34 LC Symphony Goes to the Movies!

Associate Photographer Johnny Owens Cajun Pirate Photgraphy

36 Event Guide

Clarification: In the article “Good Evening, This is Gary Tyler” in the June 5 issue, a subject in a photo was incorrectly identified as that of former mayor Jim Sudduth. The photo is of former mayor Sidney Gray.

Legal Disclaimer The views expressed by Louisiana Jam columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of Louisiana Jam, its editors or staff.

The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by Jambalaya Media, 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 self-addressed envelope. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

Copyright 2014 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.

02 June 19, 2014

20

14

18 The Lovett’s Story

New Guy Calvin Tyler

Business Office Manager Jeanie Taggart

4

38 Family Fun Night at the Movies 39 Acting Up! 40 Red Hot Books

40

38

42 Nightlife Guide 45 Live Album Concert Series 47 Local Photographer’s Russian Art Exhibit 48 Society Spice 51 Funbolaya

47 Vol. 6 • No. 6

A Note From Lauren used to keep a big bottle of Happy Times Jean Nate in her refrigerator.

The fabulous summertime is here in all of its glory. I’m reveling in it. But nothing can replace the summers of childhood. Everything seemed bigger and better and more special. And the memories are so much clearer than, say, a summer five years ago.

God bless my parents for getting us out of the sweltering hot city every weekend.

I’ve mentioned what it was like living on the top floor of a three-decker with no air-conditioning. I’d try to fall asleep to the irritating whine of that useless old metal fan that just blew hot air around, and wake up stuck to the sheets feeling as if I hadn’t slept a wink. My cousin Richard and I would compare notes: Me: “How did YOU sleep last night?” Richard: “I was up all night!” Me: “Me too!”

God forbid if I had a sunburn, which happened a lot because there was no sunscreen back then. You went to the beach and if you had fair skin, you burned. There was no

Vol. 6 • No. 6

getting around it, unless you stayed out of the sun, like my mother, who was always pale as a ghost. A sunburn would make the sleeping situation even worse. I’d be covered in calamine lotion or Noxzema, which actually felt good going on since they were cold, but that coolness lasted an instant, and then it was the agonies of hell with the heat and the burn. I envied Karen and Richard, who had olive skin that tanned beautifully. And years and years later, the smell of Noxzema would always bring me right back to those sweltering nights.

The only good thing about sunburns was peeling skin. I LOVED to peel my skin and the skin of anyone else’s that needed peeling. I wasn’t the only one, so us kids all took turns. The goal was to peel as big a piece off as possible. I don’t know what the heck we did with the peeled skin. The memory stops there. Maybe there’s a reason for that.

I remember my aunt Gloria

She’d pull it out and we’d all splash it on and it felt so good.

They lived on the first floor, so their apartment didn’t get as hot as ours. Gloria would come upstairs and say, “How can you STAND it up here?” and run back downstairs and splash on more Jean Nate.

Summer meant picnics, of course. So Dad would bring out the “Scotch Kooler,” (anyone remember it?) and Mom would load it up with chicken and potato salad and chips and soda and off we’d go to our favorite Bradley Palmer State Park. Other times, we’d go to some random rest stop along the highway. There were lots of them in those days—a few heavy wooden picnic tables with some trashcans and a rustic bathroom. There were no signs, no names, but we would usually give the places our own names. For example, there was one we called “Eggplant Hill” because there was a hill nearby and the first time we stopped there, our cousin Anna Russo brought a big dish of Eggplant

Parmigiana that was exceptionally good. The name stuck.

Sometimes, we’d go out for ice cream on a hot night.

Howard Johnson’s was one of our favorite places. The food was really good and really cheap. My mother loved the fried clam roll (no bellies!) and I always had a hot dog followed by the orange sherbet, although once in awhile, I’d go for pistachio ice cream. That orange roof was everywhere when I was a kid, and for me, evoked summer and travel and vacation like nothing else did.

I miss those wonderful days, but I’m so lucky I had them.

Decades later, they sustain me.

I thank my parents and family for giving me such a wonderful childhood and so many things to be thankful for. And a treasure chest full of summer memories.

Lauren de Albuquerque

June 19, 2014 03

Jason Machulski is a man who seeks to find the In our country long things that “last forever” ago, if a person wanted because they were built a piece of furniture, they that way; the things that went out into their community and either commis- would otherwise rot away in an attic in the time of sioned someone to build buy, buy, buy. This is a man something specifically or bought from a local crafts- who is, in fact, an American Picker, and he is preman. There were no venserving the history of our dors bringing furniture little community just as if in from out of state. This it were Americana itself. is what it meant to “buy My first meeting with American” at one time.

Machulski was held in an It wasn’t until after World War II that the term appropriate setting. Sitting across from him at was repurposed to mean the office of the Brimstone buying products built Museum in Sulphur gave inside the confines of the me quite the fascinating country, and today, we view it as a source of pride insight into what this man’s even when buying from an true goal is. What would make a person go out of American-based company their way to metal-detect a that outsources to other stranger’s front yard when parts of the world. all they’re going to do with the findings is research them and return them to the homeowner,

By Calvin Tyler

04 June 19, 2014

who probably doesn’t care anyway? Machulski feels that if he finds a treasure on someone’s property and gives it back to them, they will now have an intense, newfound interest in what their land has been through.

“I’ve found arrowheads and buffalo pennies in people’s front yards before, and then hurried to tell them,” Machulski says.

“The excitement in their eyes gets me every time, because now they know there could be more treasure waiting for them.”

It’s been too strange to see the world through the eyes of a being whose meatwagon can only last for less than 100 years.

Granted, the human body can function for 125 years if maintained perfectly, but even that is nothing compared to a house that can stand for 300 years, or a coin that lasts for over a century. How many generations have come through some of the homes in the

historic area of downtown Lake Charles? Who left a newspaper in the attic depicting the exciting escapades of John Dillinger?

Who knows for sure, but I’m pretty confident it would be fun to find out.

Machulski’s mother got him into “picking” as a small child, shaping him into the recreational archaeologist he is today.

“My mom would find furniture, old radios, and little antique pieces people were getting rid of,” he explains. “She’d take them home, clean them up, and explain what each piece was. Her grandmother had taught her the value of solid craftsmanship, and so she passed that Vol. 6 • No. 6

knowledge down to me.”

As well as finding items of historical value, Machulski has been an avid picker for quite some time, going to garage sales, flea markets, and estate sales looking for items that bring back memories.

“Every time I’m out picking, I always end up coming across some relic or piece that brings back memories, especially memories of my childhood, cooking with my grandma, and my parents,” he says.

“I especially get excited about the little things that I find that are more of a personal treasure than a historic treasure.”

Take this particular find: “I was walking through an estate sale when I stumbled across an entire set of coffee mugs recognizing Sulphur’s 50th anniversary, sponsored by Misse’s Grocery,” Machulski said.

“Mr. Misse was a smart businessman who had given away the mugs for free with the purchase of $25 in groceries, but no other set is known to exist. I picked up the mugs for $10, cleaned them up, and donated them to the Brimstone Museum. They tell the story of a man and a city that not many folks

Vol. 6 • No. 6

are familiar with.”

He’s now turned this hobby into a profit-generating business. Bayou Pickers was established in 2002, and Machulski has witnessed how the public tends to view picking since the premiere of buy and sell reality television shows.

The Brimstone Historical Society hosts lectures for Bayou Pickers where Machulski informs guests on the importance of picking within their community. “Picking is not only a way of life but a way to preserve the cultural history of one’s hometown,” he says. “The picking business needs a far more realistic projection of itself made to the public, as opposed to the way it’s portrayed on TV.” Thom Trahan, Executive Director of the Brimstone Historical Society says: “Most people don’t realize how valuable the hobby is to places like museums, which catalog rare photos, brochures, and artifacts.

Sometimes, even if an artifact has a very low monetary value, it might be

priceless to a community museum, which can then use it to tell a story.”

It is obvious that Machulski is a man of the past, perpetually searching for the artifacts of people lost to time. It’s very humbling to see that most of the finds he stumbles across belonged to someone who was as alive as me over 100 years ago, but is as dead as I will be 100 years from now. We really are finite creatures drifting through space on this rock we call home, but

like Chuck Palahniuk once said: “The goal isn’t to live forever, the goal is to create something that will.”

So, to this end, I scream to you to go out and look for the past, find the stories, create the memories, and keep the legend alive.

For more information about Bayou Pickers, contact the Brimstone Historical Society at (337) 527-0357, or visit www. brimstonemuseum.org.

The Brimstone Museum is located at 900 S. Huntington St. in Sulphur.

June 19, 2014 05

L’Auberge Hosts 2014 Heart Ball L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles hosted the American Heart Association’s 2014 Southwest Louisiana Heart Ball. As the Legacy Sponsor, L’Auberge Casino Resort donated $38,256 toward food and beverage, use of the ballroom and many other facets of the event. The goal of this event is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

Arts Council of SWLA Announces New Hires

Ashli Waldrep

Marshall Simien

The Arts Council of SWLA is proud to announce the recent additions of Ashli Waldrep and Scott Higginbotham to its staff. Waldrep will serve as assistant director and will work closely with the current executive director, Erica McCreedy. Waldrep holds a degree in Mass Communication from McNeese State University. She currently serves as chair of Fusion Five and serves on the board of the Chamber Southwest. Scott Higginbotham will serve as the Arts Council’s community development coordinator and will be tasked with overseeing the organization’s four annual grant programs. Higginbotham earned a degree in social work from Wheelock College in Boston and has a Masters of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland.

(L-R): Gregory Bass, L’Auberge Continuous Improvement Manager; Matthew Welsh, American Heart Association Regional Director; Janie Fruge’, 2014 Southwest Louisiana Heart Ball Chair and CEO of WCCH; Keith W. Henson, L’Auberge Senior VP/GM; Ashley Williams, L’Auberge Marketing Ambassador.

IBERIABANK Announces Position

is

Bryan Armentor

IBERIABANK, the 127-year-old subsidiary of IBERIABANK Corporation, is pleased to announce the recent promotion of Bryan Armentor to assistant vice president and branch manager of the Westlake branch. Armentor has been with the company for three years and most recently served as a relationship banker at the Westlake location.

He started working in banking in 2009. His office located at 2215 Sampson Street in Westlake. He can be reached at 312-7300 or by email at bryan. armentor@iberiabank.com.

Pias-Rowe Joins L’Auberge Donates to Lake Arthur Regatta Festival ERA Moffett Realty, Inc. L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles sponsored the Lake Arthur Regatta Festival that took place June 13 and 14. L’Auberge donated $3,000 in support of the festival, which featured live music, great food, boating exhibitions and more. The goal of the annual festival is to fund beautification projects for Lake Arthur and help the overall growth of the community.

Stacey Pias-Rowe, a native of Lake Charles, has joined ERA Moffett Realty, Inc., as a REALTOR, bringing almost a decade of sales experience with her. Pias-Rowe is a graduate of St. Louis High School and McNeese State University. Her husband is Minnesota native Paul Rowe.

She is licensed in both commercial and residential real estate. For more information, contact ERA Moffett Realty, Inc. at (337)436-6639, or Pias-Rowe directly at (337) 526-6325. Each ERA office is independently owned and operated.

Stacey Pias-Rowe

Golden Nugget Casino Resort LC Hires Director of Player Development

Sean Demeule, L’Auberge assistant GM; Troy Trahan, Trahan Construction co-owner. Town of Lake Arthur Council member.

06 June 19, 2014

Golden Nugget Casino Resort and Hotel Lake Charles is pleased to announce Darren Olinde as its new director of player development. The Louisiana native brings with him more than 20 years of gaming industry experience, previously serving as the director of player development at the Isle of Capri Casino and senior executive host at L’Auberge du Lac Hotel & Casino. The Golden Nugget Casino and Resort is expected to open in late 2014.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Contractors Group Educational Trust Donates to McNeese

McDonald’s of SWLA and Billy Navarre Chevrolet Cadillac Support Battle on the Bayou II

The Contractors Group Educational Trust has donated $120,000 through the McNeese State University Foundation to establish two endowed professorships in the College of Engineering.

Doug Gehrig of McDonald’s of Southwest Louisiana and Billy Navarre of Billy Navarre Chevrolet Cadillac recently presented a check for $15,000 to Olympic Gold Medalist Jennie Finch-Daigle to support the “Battle on the Bayou II” softball tournament, a matchup between the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team and a team of all-stars scheduled to take place on June 20- 21 at McMurry Park in Sulphur, La. Gehrig and Navarre will serve as the team’s honorary coaches during the weekend tournament.

(L-R): Dr. Jay Uppot, McNeese professor of civil engineering; Lee Mallett of Mallett Buildings; Courtney Fenet of R.E. Heidt Construction, Greg Weston of Arthur J. Gallagher; and McNeese President Dr. Philip C. Williams. McNeese Photo

McNeese Professor Awarded Harvard Fellowship Dr. Philippe R. Girard, professor and head of the history department at McNeese State University, has been awarded a Sheila Biddle Ford Fellowship to Harvard University’s W.E.B. Du Bois Research Institute at the Hutchins Center for African and African American Research in Cambridge, Mass., for fall 2014. During his residence, Girard will work on a biography of Haitian revolutionary hero Toussaint Louverture.

Girard will use the extensive research facilities and libraries, among many of the other scholarly Philippe Girard privileges Harvard has to offer, in order to gain a full understanding of Louverture’s life. The program, founded in 1975, offers a stipend and residence for scholars each year at both predoctoral and postdoctoral levels.

(L-R): Billy Navarre, Jennie Finch-Daigle and Doug Gehrig

SOWELA Receives Gold Hermes Creative Award SOWELA has received the Gold Hermes Creative Award for its Spring 2014 Alumni Magazine. Hermes Creative Awards are administered and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals. The Gold Award is presented to those entries judged to exceed the high standards of the industry norm. There were about 5,500 entries from throughout the United States and other countries represented in this years’ judging. “This first issue of the SOWELA magazine will help raise the awareness for what SOWELA is doing to help improve the lives of our students, “ said Dr. Neil Aspinwall, Chancellor. “The story of the success of our students IS the SOWELA story.”

Pawlowski Joins Bancorp South Lake Charles Office BancorpSouth Bank has announced the opening of the bank’s loan production office in Lake Charles. The new office, located at 4660 Lake Street is staffed by a group of financial services industry veterans including Russell Pawlowski, Lake Charles market president.

Originally from Michigan, Pawlowski has resided in Lake Charles for the last 11 years. He is a graduate of Johnson & Wales University and Forsyth Community College. Since his arrival in Russell Powlowski Lake Charles, he has worked at Chase as a Commercial Loan Officer followed by his previous position as a Vice President Commercial Banker with Business First Bank. He is married to Michelle Chaney Pawlowski and they have two daughters.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

June 19, 2014 07

The Rainmaker It’s Sunday night of the first weekend here at the Kerrville Folk Festival, located in the middle of the Texas Hill Country. Our good friends, Wayne and Sissie, are vacationing nearby and have decided to come join us for the evening’s show at the main stage. I’m sure they came mainly out of curiosity over what my wife and I have been raving about like lunatics these past several years.

Our friends, I’m sure, pressured them to check things out and report back whether the rumors were true that we had joined a cult out here.

Unfortunately, they never got the chance to confirm those rumors, as no sooner did they find their seats midway during the first set than the skies opened up in true Kerr-fashion.

The dance area left of stage saw the water rise to where Texas law required life jackets for anyone who’d be brave enough

to try two-stepping amid the lightning strikes. Wayne and Sissie’s first Kerrville experience lasted all of a half-hour—not long enough even to visit Tiffany’s booth and get branded with a henna tattoo.

We phoned them after the storm, and they were in good spirits following the experience.

It’s no wonder; they just retreated to their four-wheel drive, climate-controlled truck in the mud pit of a parking lot and escaped to their dry hotel room.

We, on the other hand, had nowhere to go than back to camp.

The storm meant that, for the next ten days of our stay, my wife would assume the role of Mud Nazi. Her sole purpose would be to prevent any single grain of Kerr-mud to find its way into our camper. It’s harder than trying to prevent a herd of stampeding lawyers from converging on the scene of an oil spill, but she isn’t deterred.

It wasn’t until the next day that I put two and two together.

Just before the rains came, my old college buddy, Jim, had texted me. Our fraternity had a reunion going on up in Yankee Land, and he was thinking about me. Jim and I used to go camping often back in the day. He was tremendous fun to spend time with, just not in the outdoors. I can’t think of a single time that Jim went camping that it didn’t rain like crazy.

Most campgrounds now refuse to take reservations from him.

I couldn’t help but be impressed with how Jim had kept up with technology all these years. Here was someone who not only majored in business but also didn’t even have a Facebook account, and yet, he had developed the ability to transmit his rainmaking prowess by text message to someone who happened to be camping 1,500 miles away!

My wife is barely keeping the camper mud-free by insisting that my feet, and thus the rest of me, spend the nights outside.

She won’t let me in unless I promise to block Jim’s number until the end of the festival.

Meanwhile, Wayne and Sissie are racing home to drought-stricken Southwest Louisiana with the storm close at their heels.

I thought it an ingenious solution to all these problems, having forwarded Jim’s texts directly to Sissie’s cell number. It’s now sunny here, and our cult secret is still safe. Jim, you’re a true friend.

Mike McHugh’s column has appeared in “The Jambalaya News” for nearly five years. He also contributes stories to the “Not Your Mother’s Book” anthology series and makes public speaking appearances. To inquire about having him speak to your group, contact Mike at thedangyankee@mail.com.

Featured by LAPAW Rescue • Contact us at www.lapaw.org Hap, an 11-month old beagle/ basset mix was homeless when he was found, abandoned when a large company bought the property where his people lived. They did not take him or his brother, Moe, along on the sudden move, so they were left to fend for themselves.

Found by animal advocate Dana Frye, she fed him for six months before she could earn his trust.

Once in the care of a foster, this boy blossomed! He is playful and loving and loves to fetch a ball and play with his doggie friends.

He has been around cats and 08 June 19, 2014

should be good with children over the age of five. Hap will need a fenced yard since the beagle in him tends to enjoy following his nose. He is cratetrained and working on housetraining.

He is current on shots, neutered, and eager to find his own home that he hopes will be forever this time. For more information, call or email (337) 478-7294; lapaw@bellsouth.net. A vet check and home visit required prior to all adoptions. Hurry, Hap is waiting!

Can’t adopt? Consider fostering.

Can’t foster? Consider sponsoring!

LAPAW dogs (and cats) can be seen at www.lapaw.org.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

I’m Back!

Yes, I was conspicuously absent from the June 5 issue of The Jambalaya News.

I was amazed by the number of readers that contacted me saying I was missed and asking what happened. Long story short, I was in the hospital and just could not get the column together. I have written this column while vacationing in Natchitoches, from the midst of the Mississippi woods and from other locations, but I have yet to write from a hospital bed. For the record and your information, I came down with a septic shoulder caused by a strep bacterium that infected my left shoulder and caused a cellulitis condition in my lower left leg. I am well on my way to recovery but still have daily antibiotic infusions and physical therapy to recover my strength in my left arm. Thank you for your concern. I’m back!

Kudos to Lake Charles Memorial Hospital I would like to let our readers know that Lake Charles Memorial Hospital is truly a gem in our midst. I could not have asked for better care and concern than what I received in the last weeks. The Five Tower staff, charge nurses, room nurses, CNAs and other personnel went above and beyond to make sure that I was cared for in a Vol. 6 • No. 6

manner that you can only dream about, especially nowadays.

They are not only professionals of the highest caliber, but also highly compassionate caregivers.

I would mention names but out of concern of missing someone, I will not. All of the doctors who saw me through this ordeal are as top of the line as you can get. I can only state that I would not hesitate to return again if needed or take any family member or friend there in a heartbeat. I cannot state firmly enough just how grateful I am for the treatment I received during my stay at Memorial.

price on the shelf. The stores we checked were: Albertsons-Ryan Street, Kroger-McNeese Street, Market Basket-Nelson Road and Walmart-Nelson Road.

Jalapenos, per pound: Albertsons $1.49, Market Basket $.99, Kroger $.78, Walmart $1.38.

Celery, per head: Albertsons $1.99, Market Basket $1.19, Kroger $1.29, Walmart $1.48.

Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise.

30-ounce jar: Albertsons $4.79, Market Basket $3.99, Kroger $3.99, Walmart $3.48.

Green onions, per bunch: Albertsons $.69, Market Basket $.25, Kroger $.57, Walmart (prepackaged double bunch) $1.10.

Chicken, whole, per pound: Albertsons $1.39, Market Basket $1.09, Kroger $.99, Walmart $.99.

Breakfast!

Another “breakfast” restaurant has closed. Le Peep on Ryan Street has shut its doors and the loss of that favorite egg café will be lamented. I did hear that they are scouting around for a new location, so let’s hope they find another home soon. But the good news is Keith Jagneaux, chef and owner of Jag’s Bistro, is going to offer a Sunday Champagne Brunch, starting June 22. Chef Keith plans to have a traditional breakfast buffet, a carving station and your first Bloody Mary or Mimosa is included (discounted refills are to be offered). I know he will put out some amazing food.

Supermarket Roundup Just about everyone enjoys chicken salad sandwiches.

I like a very finely chopped jalapeno mixed in mine (not too much, just enough to hint at the flavor). For our salad, we need celery, green onions, jalapeno, mayonnaise and, of course, chicken. The prices reported here were obtained on June 11 and reflect the posted June 19, 2014 09

Advice to the Fishlorn Expecting the usual Fishing Tale? Nope, not this time.

One of my pals (yes, I actually have friends) wanted me to reveal the secrets of fishing guides. Sorry, folks, but those guys and gals are in a fraternity that is sworn to silence.

I just made that up. Here are my guide’s tips.

Tip 1

Fish with a guide at the start of your fishing season.

Don’t tell me you can’t afford it. Try not buying that $300 rod and reel, new trolling motor, or the latest tech gismo for your too-expensive anyway fishing rig. Take some time to learn. I did and it truly paid off to the point I actually was John where to fish. A guide has LeMay paid to fish for success. His very living is dependent on tips, references, and repeat trips. Just being in the boat with one will teach you how to arrange your gear and

what to bring. Note the size of his tackle box, what he has in there, and what he uses for bait, live or artificial. View very carefully how he sets up baits.

Never forget where he goes, as they are the best spots.

Watch what, how and where he casts and how he works baits. Don’t miss how long he stays at each fishing hole.

View carefully the tech gismos he uses and how he uses them. I learned more about saltwater fishing in the Big Lake Area with Terry “Ya Shoulda Been Here Yesterday” Shaughnessy and later his

stepsons, the Stansel brothers, Kirk and Guy, at the Hackberry Rod and Gun Club, than I can ever thank them for. Freshwater tips came from angler friends of my dad and Steve Kohler of the Gray Estate’s Goose Lake Lodge.

Tip 2 Can’t afford or are too cheap to pay a guide? Then fish with someone who really knows what he’s doing.

They’re still out there and you know at least one of

Coonass LeDeux

Damon Hanchey

10 June 19, 2014

Vol. 6 • No. 6

them. Someone like Coonass LeDeux comes to mind. He lives to fish and fishes to live.

Same advice as above but with him, you get that something extra. He knows fishing isn’t just about catching fish.

It’s being out there. His love for the sport and enthusiasm is catching. As a bonus, you’ll also learn where to fish the Calcasieu River, its marshes and tributaries. If you don’t enjoy fishing with someone like him, then you need a new hobby.

Tip 3 See if you have a special group that can help you.

I have been blessed with former students who are expert anglers. John Paul Trosclair, while skipping my

Coley Lofton

class at South Cameron High School, used to send me cell phone pictures of the fish he was catching. He knows the Big Burn, Lacassine Reserve, Sabine Reserve, Rockefeller Reserve and Cameron Prairie Reserve because he’s fished his entire home parish. Damon Hanchey, despite being an engineer, actually knows how to fish LNG’s area, the Gulf or Toledo Bend Lake.

Any trip with young men such as these is a learning experience. Find your own special group.

Tip 4 Don’t forget the female experts like Jenny Nichols, whom I wrote about in “Memories Are Made Of This.” Then, there’s Coley Lofton, who shares her catches with us on Facebook. Women have much expertise to share. Meanwhile, there are the curmudgeon codgers like myself or friendly seniors like John LeMay who truly know angling and will actually take the time to teach you.

Tip 5 Look at the faces of the people pictured. It can be you.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

June 19, 2014 11

Writing for The Jambalaya News, and working closely with my editor, Lauren de Albuquerque, I am constantly approached to write pieces on interesting people--as is my specialty--who are probably not living the lives their parental units hoped for them.

This story happens to hold both sides of the coin. Both of the men I interviewed are performers for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. And both men get paid to do what I was getting in trouble for doing in school.

They are professional clowns.

The first clown I spoke with was North Carolina native Andrew Hicks, and his story is one as old as child-

hood rebellion. As a child, Hicks, like many of his generation, would dig through the family VHS collection (video tapes that would play through a VCR back in the stone age) and find one that stood out.

The tape Hicks happened to stumble across was one documenting the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College. He watched it over and over again, and it led him to decide to “run away and join the circus” by the age of 19, opening up his world to a life of possibilities, and putting him on the road to living his dream.

I know, you might be thinking: Clown College doesn’t really exist, does it?

Oh...it does! It’s quite prestigious, and only a handful of people are selected, and even fewer ever graduate. Since its inception in 1968, only approximately 1,300 people have received diplomas (including Jam publisher Phil de Albuquerque). Its graduates tour with The Greatest Show On Earth and also perform on stage, in film, and in other areas of the performing arts.

Hicks says his audition was very intense. “There was a two-hour time and movement workshop, which was nonstop action. After that, every person presented a three-minute piece demonstrating their unique physical skills.”

He got a lot out of the

Ivan Vargas

12 June 19, 2014

school, which led him to his contract with Ringling. “We practiced things like slapstick comedy and clown makeup.

It takes a really long time to learn how to be a good clown.

And you learn without being dressed as a clown, and that’s so you learn to be funny without all the clothing and makeup helping you. Plus, it’s a very, very physical job, so it’s best to practice in comfortable clothing.”

The next clown has a different story. Not unlike Hicks, Ivan Vargas also looked up to the circus as a child, seeing the acrobats as real-life superheroes bravely flying through the air with ease. But very unlike Hicks, Vargas didn’t leave home to join the circus. The circus was his home, and the superheroes he looked up to were his trapeze-artist parents.

“I’m a 6th generation performer on my father’s side, and 5th generation on my mother’s,” he said.

Vargas’ parents actually asked him if he’d like to leave the circus and live a “normal” life at the age of 7. His response was a firm NO. “ I love the performing aspect.

It’s an amazing feeling really,” he says. “I wanted to follow in

Vol. 6 • No. 6

my family’s footsteps.”

But with the genetic makeup of an acrobat coursing through his veins, it’s kind of curious that he chose to become a clown. While he did perform as an acrobat initially, he decided he wanted to try his hand at clowning.

“Clowns can reach the audience in a way that no other performer can,” he says. “I wanted to connect to people directly, and the clown business was the best way to do that. Plus, my ability to fall down and not get hurt helps a lot in my job!”

Circus fans love the one hour pre-show (free with every ticket) that gives an inside view of what the clowns do.

The audience gets a chance to ask questions, interact with the performers and become involved with the real show.

Vargas believes that the

Vol. 6 • No. 6

most exhilarating part of his job is being able to perform in front of thousands of people and make them gasp. “My goal is to be remembered as a great performer who redefined traditional acts,” he says.

Hicks explained the magic of The Greatest Show On Earth in a way that a dork such as myself could understand. He said, “You know how no matter how many times you sit down and watch the movie Raiders of the Lost Ark it always feels like the first time? That’s what the ‘big show’ is like for me.

Truly magical.”

I asked him what advice he has for the kids out there. He responded with, “It doesn’t matter how old you are. Be brave enough to follow your dreams, because it’s worth it every time.”

Andrew Hicks

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Super Circus Heroes, coming to the CAJUNDOME June 26-29.

Come celebrate the bravery, courage and honor that lives inside all of us!

Tickets on sale now! $50* Front Row, $45* VIP floor, $35* VIP premium, $25* VIP & $15* 2nd and 3rd levels

All Access Pre-show: 1 hour prior to showtime for all ticket-holders. Purchase your tickets at www.cajundome.com.

June 19, 2014 13

14 June 19, 2014

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Have you implemented estate-planning strategies to help pass along more of your wealth to your heirs? If not, this article will motivate you to do so.

Investors often concentrate on accumulating assets, but how much time and energy is spent on preserving those hard-earned assets for future generations? Not nearly enough. Have you considered any of the following strategies to help pass along more of your estate to your heirs?

-often best begun at a much younger age. At the very least, you should have a will to ensure that your final wishes are known. If you have dependent children, also consider naming a suitable guardian for them. After determining the value of real estate, cash-value life insurance policies, and assets held in retirement and investment accounts, a more encompassing plan may also be necessary.

Nuts and Bolts of Estate Planning

What can you do to avoid drastically reducing your estate to meet tax obligations?

Life insurance may be a taxefficient way of transferring accumulated wealth. Some types of policies offer current

Many people don’t begin thinking about transferring their assets until retirement. In reality, effective estate planning is an ongoing process-

Giving Less to the Tax Man

Red, White, Blue and You!

On Friday, July 4 at 6 p.m., the parade will roll from Mill Street heading south on Ryan Street toward Lock Park/7th Street.

Anyone who would like to join in the parade is invited to decorate their floats, vehicles, golf carts, bicycles, marching units, etc.

Spectators are encouraged to line the streets for beads and candy. Follow the parade to front lawn of the Lake Charles Civic Center Vol. 6 • No. 6

for a patriotic program beginning at 7:15 p.m. with the sounds of Paul Gonsoulin & John Guidroz, the Lake Charles Community Band and the Louisiana Choral Foundation. There will be face painting, balloon clowns and food vendors. The fireworks extravaganza will begin at 9:15 p.m. Tune into Fun Radio 92.9 FM or Gator 99 for the soundtrack simulcast.

tax benefits and also reduce or eliminate taxes for beneficiaries. And life insurance may also increase the amount passed on to your heirs. Plus, it may also help owners of highly appreciated property or small businesses retain their assets, rather than be forced to sell those assets to pay Uncle Sam. Trusts may also be appropriate, and there are many types from which to choose.

A grantor retained annuity trust (GRAT), for example, allows you to transfer assets to an irrevocable trust and then receive a yearly annuity for a specific number of years. Once the GRAT is dissolved, the remaining assets pass to the beneficiaries, usually free of estate and gift taxes.

Charitable remainder trusts are also popular. They can be arranged so that you--and, if you desire, a named beneficiary--receive tax benefits and, in some cases, income during life. What’s more, the trust also benefits a charity of your choice. If appropriate, trusts are a key part of the estate planning process.

This article just scratches the surface of effective wealth transfer. Contact your financial advisor or lawyer about these and other suggestions to make the most of your assets -- for both you and your heirs.

LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial.

Because of the possibility of human or mechanical error

by S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications or its sources, neither S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications nor its sources guarantees the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or availability of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. In no event shall S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications be liable for any indirect, special or consequential damages in connection with subscriber’s or others’ use of the content. © 2013 S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications. All rights reserved.

June 19, 2014 15

Falls and Senior Citizens More than one in three people age 65 years or older falls each year. The risk of falling -- and fall-related problems -rises with age.

Each year, more than 1.6 million older U.S. adults go to emergency departments for fallrelated injuries. Among older adults, falls are the number one cause of fractures, hospital admissions for trauma, loss of independence, and injury deaths.

Fractures caused by falls can lead to hospital stays and disability. Most often, fall-related fractures are in the person’s hip, pelvis, spine, arm, hand, or ankle.

Hip fractures are one of the most serious types of fall injury.

They are a leading cause of injury and loss of independence, among older adults. Most healthy, independent older adults who are hospitalized for a broken hip are able to return

16 June 19, 2014

home or live on their own after treatment and rehabilitation.

Most of those who cannot return to independent living after such injuries had physical or mental disabilities before the fracture. Many of them will need long-term care.

Fear of Falling Many older adults are afraid of falling. This fear becomes more common as people age, even among those who haven’t fallen. It may lead older people to avoid activities such as walking, shopping, or taking part in social activities.

If you’re worried about falling, talk with your doctor or another health care provider.

Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist. Physical therapy can help you improve your balance and walking and help build your walking confi-

dence. Getting rid of your fear of falling can help you to stay active, maintain your physical health, and prevent future falls.

Tell Your Doctor if you Fall If you fall, be sure to discuss the fall with your doctor, even if you aren’t hurt. Many underlying causes of falls can be treated or corrected. For example, falls can be a sign of a new medical problem that needs attention, such as diabetes or changes in blood pressure, particularly drops in blood pressure on standing up. They can also be a sign of problems with your medications or eyesight that can be corrected. After a fall, your doctor may suggest changes in your medication or your eyewear prescription. He or she may also suggest physical therapy, use of a walking aid, or other steps to help prevent

future falls. These steps can also make you more confident in your abilities.

Ways to Prevent Falls Exercise to improve your balance and strengthen your muscles helps to prevent falls.

Not wearing bifocal or multifocal glasses when you walk, especially on stairs, will make you less likely to fall. You can also make your home safer by removing loose rugs, adding handrails to stairs and hallways, and making sure you have adequate lighting in dark areas.

Falls are not an inevitable part of life, even as a person gets older. You can take action to prevent falls. Your doctor or other health care providers can help you decide what changes will help.

Source: National Institute on Aging

Vol. 6 • No. 6

As people age, their driving patterns change. Retirement, different schedules, and new activities affect when and where they drive. Most older adults drive safely because they have a lot of experience behind the wheel.

But when they are involved in crashes, they are often hurt more seriously than younger drivers.

An age-related declines in vision, hearing, and other abilities, as well as certain health conditions and medications, can affect driving skills.

Changes in Driving Habits When people retire, they have leisure time. They may start new activities, visit friends and family more often, or take more vacations.

Like all drivers, they use their vehicles to go shopping, do errands, and visit the doctor.

For a senior citizen, driving is an important part of staying independent.

Most people 70 and older have drivers’ licenses. They tend to drive fewer miles than younger drivers. But, they are also keeping their licenses longer and driving more miles than in the past, often favoring local roads over highways.

As the overall population ages, there will be more older drivers on the road.

A Complex Task Driving is a complicated task. It requires people to see and hear clearly; pay close attention to other cars, traffic signs and signals, and pedestrians; and react quickly to events. Drivers must be able to accurately judge distances and speeds and monitor movement on both sides as well in front of them.

It’s common for people to Vol. 6 • No. 6

have declines in visual, thinking, or physical abilities as they get older. As a result, older drivers are more likely than younger ones to have trouble in certain situations, including making left turns, changing lanes, and navigating through intersections.

Common Mistakes Common mistakes of older drivers include: • failing to yield the right of way • failing to stay in lane • misjudging the time or distance needed to turn in front of traffic • failing to stop completely at a stop sign • speeding or driving too slowly.

Crashes Down Among Older Drivers Fortunately, the rate of crashes among adults 65 and over has decreased in recent years. Research suggests that this decline is due to a number of factors, including older adults’ better health, safer cars, and safer roads. In addition, older drivers’ ability to “police” themselves — like not driving at night – and stricter state laws for renewal of driver’s licenses may help.

Most traffic deaths of older drivers occur during the daytime, on weekdays, and involve other vehicles. Older adults are more susceptible to death or serious injury in a crash if they are physically frail, but the good news is that older people are more likely to survive crashes than in the past.

Source: NIH

Older Drivers and Crashes Driving errors can lead to traffic accidents, injuries, and death. The risk of crashes rises with age, especially after age 75. Studies show that older drivers are more, and less, likely to be involved in certain types of crashes than other drivers. Older drivers are less likely to be involved in crashes related to alcohol use, speeding, and driving at night. But they are more likely to get into crashes • at intersections (usually in the vehicle that is struck) • in which the front of one vehicle hits the side of another vehicle • where the older driver is merging and the other vehicle is traveling faster or is in the older driver’s blind spot June 19, 2014 17

By Calvin Tyler Many stories have been told that revolve around two people finding each other, falling madly in love, overcoming struggles, and living happily ever. The problem with these stories is that they usually end. In fact: everything, at some point, will come to an end. Our time is short, and it always has been.

We’re all born into a freefall, so far above the clouds that you’ll never see the ground until it’s too late. This is the truth that makes a life worth living, and a lot of beautiful stories have been told to me by people who have lived long enough to experience all that the world has to offer.

But when it comes to matters of the heart, very few long-lasting marriages I’ve been exposed to come from a place of true passion, sincerity, and truth. This is where the stories of “eternal love” we’ve been spoon-fed our entire lives fall flat. But I ran across a couple’s story that stands as a testament to the possibilities of finding that one person out there.

The one other person on 18 June 19, 2014

this planet that you are truly meant to be with.

The first time I met Dan and Dixie Lovett, there was an obvious connection between them that I mistook for something that all elderly couples, who have been together for 50+ years, just had automatically due to sharing the same meals for so long.

As I got to know the Lovetts I began to notice something was different.

There was a strange air to their compassion towards one another, a sense of dedication that one usually only finds in young adults experiencing puppy love for the first time. The two of them wanted to be together.

Physically close. He talks to his grandson, telling stories of when he was first a father, and Dixie endearingly gazes into his eyes as if she’s never heard him speak before.

When she takes over the conversation to fill in the blanks of his tales with slightly more grounded facts, he smiles and winks. They aren’t codependent in the way that raises flags with psychologists, but

instead, seem to have never lost interest in one another.

I sat in their kitchen, adorned with Coca Cola memorabilia, and asked how they met. This was a beautiful mistake on my part, as I had no idea that I was about to hear the greatest love story ever told. One that would make me sad for my children and the generations to follow because there is no possible way that they could enjoy the same kind of by-chance adventure that the Lovetts happened into.

“You wanna know how we met?” asks Dan. “It’s a funny story.” I look over to Dixie who is smiling as she says, “It wasn’t funny at the time.

But...I guess it worked out.”

I can do no justice when I try and explain how sweet and reserved Dixie’s voice is.

It could soothe the shark in Jaws into a vegan lifestyle. So kind and so incredibly soft, she almost whispers. Dan, on the other hand, is loud as hell, and tougher than a bag of Robocops running on Energizer batteries. He is all of five feet, five inches tall

and, although it’s mostly gray now, Dan’s hair is as thick as it was when he was 11 years old. In fact, due to his stubbornness, his hair is probably thicker now because it refuses to even shed. The man has always been known for being tough. Even as a child, he and brothers would go out looking for trouble. Getting into fights was a regular occurrence for the rough-andtumble Dan. In a time of greasers, bombshells, and pin-ups, Dan was 22 years old, running the streets with his friends in search of a good time on the town. “We stopped by this place where the kids would go to dance,” he remembers. “To make a long story short, me and this guy didn’t see eye-to-eye over this particular subject, so things started to get heated.

By this point, his buddies got involved—but mine had already left.”

He looks me straight in the eye. “You’ve got to know something about who I was back then, Calvin. When I was a kid, there could be four Vol. 6 • No. 6

coming at me to fight, and I didn’t care. I was bad.”

Dixie, smiling and turning her head slightly, says, “You were so bad, Daniel.”

Only Dixie can get away with calling this pillar of macho “Daniel,” and I suspect it is all in how she says it. “There was the guy I had words with and his four buddies,” Dan says. “That’s when I found out I only counted as one person in this fight.”

In this same universe, at this exact same moment, Dixie was 16 years old and her daddy had just bought her a brand-new car. “My daddy was well-to-do, and loved me a lot,” Dixie smiles. Excited to take it out for a spin, she picked up a friend to share in the cruising. They drove around most of the night, enjoying that new car smell, until they decided to swing by a drive-thru and order something to eat.

Meanwhile Dan, battered and bruised, had been walking for a while, replaying the beating he just received over and over in his head, eventually stopping by a familiar spot for a soda.

“I couldn’t know then what was about to happen,” he says. “I had just gotten the snot beat out of me. I looked up and, to my surprise, saw the boy who had just proved that it took five people to whip my a**.” Dan had also noticed that the kid was all alone, with no support in sight.

A little something to know about this particular Dan is that he would later go on to become a very successful bail bondsmen. With this in mind, imagine him seeing a chance to get this guy.

“I put my soda down, got up from the bench, and Vol. 6 • No. 6

walked over and grabbed him quick.” Dan gives me a little more detail, which I have decided to exclude from this article, but for the sake of the piece, let it be known that this other guy knew he had been in a fight. “The fight was broken up when a little waitress ran out and screamed, ‘Dan! You’ve gotta get out of here, they just called the cops,’ and that’s when I popped him one last time and walked away to the sound of incoming police sirens.”

Oblivious to what was taking place, Dixie sat nearby with her friend, enjoying their drive-thru order. “I was talking and laughing with my friend about school and whatnot when I noticed somebody opening my door.

Me and my friend were scared to death when this man bent down and ordered me to scoot over.” Dixie tries her best at a tough voice: “‘Move over!’ he said.”

I sit there in disbelief, still not really putting two and two together, until Dan does it for me. “Can you believe that was the very first time I drove a brand new car, Calvin?” he laughs. “We drove around all night and have been together ever since,” Dixie chimes in.

We don’t often meet our soul mate. I was lucky enough to find a girl who loves me and puts up with all of my shenanigans, as I know I can be quite the chore. I also know that my wife loves me deeply. We enjoy each other, and enjoy recounting our own personal adventures together.

This is the love that I wish for everyone. The Lovett’s story is one that proves if it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be.

And can even happen while “borrowing” a car to evade the police.

June 19, 2014 19

By Lauren de Albuquerque Losing a beloved spouse is one of the most devastating things to go through.

And it usually happens to people in their senior years, with the kids grown and out of the house, a lot of time on their hands, and diminishing health. An overwhelming combination.

More than anything, they need companionship and empathy. And it helps to be around others who understand what they are going through.

20 June 19, 2014

Hixson Funeral Homes, part of the Dignity Memorial Network, has instituted LIFT (Living Information for Today) programs in their funeral homes across the country.

“It’s a social program for widows and widowers,” says the very energetic Jody Tyler Barrilleaux, Hixson’s Community Relations director, who has implemented the SWLA programs based on the national model.

Personally, I’ve never met anyone who loves people

more than Jody, so running a program such as this one comes as second nature to her.

“I believe we all want to be a blessing to people, to help them and make them smile,” she says. “LIFT is for the seniors in our community who have lost their spouses and need to get out and start enjoying life again.”

A typical program will have a guest speaker and/ or entertainment and last an hour to an hour and a

half. The first local program was held at Hixson’s in Lake Charles in April 2013.

Jody initially got the word out through her contacts at various senior centers and the Calcasieu Council on Aging. “I wanted to make a big splash, so John Ieyoub kicked it off, as Elvis!”

Barrilleaux laughed. “He was a big hit, as you can imagine! The crowd loved him!”

Since them, the program averages about 60 people at each event. Encouraged by

Vol. 6 • No. 6

the success of Lake Charles, the LIFT Sulphur program debuted at Hixson’s in October 2013. And just last month, Moss Bluff became the third location. Jody is in charge of all three. It’s a lot of work, but luckily, she has the drive and passion. And she appreciates help when she can get it. Jody is especially grateful to Walgreen’s, who supplies door prizes to guests at the programs.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

“They have been just wonderful to our people,” she says.

“I’m so excited that this has taken off,” she says. “We have so many regulars who come in groups now. Many go out to lunch afterwards.

Old friends who haven’t seen one another in years have reconnected.

And new friends are being made.

It’s a great social

outlet for everyone.”

Jody brings LIFT’s mission all over the Lake Area, speaking to Rotary and Kiwanis chapters. With three groups, the LIFT program is very much in need of guest speakers. Past speakers include financial planner Sam Hebert (who has

led such an interesting life, I’m sure finances were the last thing he talked about!), my husband Phil (discussing his circus days), and even JAM columnist Mike McHugh, the Dang Yankee.

“Everyone has a story to tell,” Jody says. “I know there are a lot of folks out there that our group would love to hear from.”

The LIFT group meets at 10 a.m. the second Wednesday of the month at Hixson’s Moss Bluff, the third Wednesday at Hixson’s Sulphur, and the fourth Wednesday at Hixson’s Lake Charles.

“Please spread the word to all of your family members and friends who can benefit from LIFT,” Jody says. “Believe me, it will make a difference in their lives.”

For more information on Hixson’s LIFT programs, email jodybarrilleaux@ yahoo.com.

June 19, 2014 21

New Program Presents Seniors with a Variety of Volunteer Opportunities The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury Human Services Department is launching a new volunteer program for seniors over 55 years of age to connect them with a vast array of opportunities across the parish.

The program encourages seniors to remain active in the community and plans to design long-term project-based volunteer opportunities, short-term high impact projects and group projects that take place throughout the year.

Events will reflect the volunteers’ interests and cover a vast scope of activities, from assisting veterans, reading to incarcerated prisoners, health fairs, special event exhibits,

22 June 19, 2014

staffing events and more.

To kick off the new program, the department is hosting a name and logo contest open to all ages. Interested residents can submit their original logo designs, along with a name for the program between June 4th and August 1st.

Submissions should be sent to: Volunteer Program Contest, 1155 Ryan Street 2nd Floor, Lake Charles, LA 70601. The winner’s logo will be used in the volunteer group’s promotions and web pages and an additional contest prize will also be awarded.

Residents who would like to start volunteering with the group and provide sug-

gestions for future projects are invited to come to the first two meetings to be held June 18th and July 2nd at 10 a.m. in the Allen P. August Multi-Purpose Annex on 2000 Moeling Street in Lake Charles.

The previous Retired Senior Volunteer Program known as R.S.V.P. was discontinued due to the loss of federal funding, but the Police Jury remains committed to offering seniors 55 and over opportunities to use their talents in service to the community. The Police Jury asked the Human Service Department to develop a program with local funds already budgeted through the previous program.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Vol. 6 • No. 6

June 19, 2014 23

24 June 19, 2014

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Retirement Living at Its Best at Verandah!

By Denise Park, Certified Personal Trainer, FallProof Certified Instructor, Wellness Director, Sunshine Retirement Living At Sunshine Retirement Living, we believe in offering our residents the absolute best in preventative care services. One of the benefits of living at The Verandah Retirement Community is that our residents, whether they are living in our Independent Living cottages and apartments, or our Assisted Living apartments, have access to our premium fitness center 24 hours a day! We offer complimentary fitness training twice a week by our Certified Personal Trainer, Cindy, who has been training for over 28 years and is an expert in senior fitness.

Another benefit of living at The Verandah is our healthy, chef-prepared meals, served restaurant-style in our beautiful dining rooms. Both Assisted Living and Independent Living residents enjoy leisure dining, which allows them to eat at times that work around their active lifestyles. We are also pleased to offer a flexible menu, encouraging our residents to order a variety of healthy meal options that they enjoy!

Vol. 6 • No. 6

While we believe a healthy lifestyle to be the foundation for successful aging, we also feel that part of aging well includes continuing to do the things that you are passionate about. For this reason, we offer a variety of activities that allow our residents to continue to enjoy the things that they love. Some of our residents’ passions include quilting, painting, golf, fishing, traveling or continued education.

We are passionate about providing seniors with the tools to age well, including having access to quality food, adequate activity, ample sleep, a supportive community and time spent in a natural environment. Our wellness and activity programs are centered around these themes, providing our residents with all that they need to lead the healthy and active lifestyle that they deserve.

To learn more about The Verandah and meet our teams, please call or email us to schedule a personal tour and join us for lunch. We are here seven days a week and look forward to meeting you.

Be well!

TheVerandah@SunshineRet.com| 5851 Gray Market, Lake Charles, LA 70605 (337) 347-7214.

Jenny Bono Named Assistant CFO of Lake Area Medical Center Jenny Bono has been named Assistant Chief Financial Officer at Lake Area Medical Center in Lake Charles. Bono, a Cameron Parish native and South Cameron High School graduate, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from McNeese State University.

Bono also holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. She has over 12 years of public and private accounting experience, including expertise in the behavioral and acute healthcare management field. Bono has been an employee of Lake Area Medical Center since 2011, most recently serving as the hospital’s Financial Controller.

June 19, 2014 25

CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital and LC Toyota/Tarver Ford Unveil TranSit®Car Transfer Simulator CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital’s Physical Rehabilitation Center recently unveiled a Tran-Sit®Car Transfer Simulator that will be used to aid in physical rehabilitation and recovery. The $14,923 simulator was donated by Philip and DeWanna Tarver, owners of Lake Charles Toyota and

Tarver Ford.

The Tran-Sit®Car Transfer Simulator will be used with the goal of minimizing the impact on both the patients and caregivers by training the patients to be more self-sufficient, to be more confident in their abilities and to maintain a lifestyle with minimal limi-

tations. The simulator allows all patients, prior to their discharge, to learn and practice car transfer skills in the comfort and safety of a clinical setting. It is an attractive and functional addition to any rehab program, and its real car appearance adds to the realism of training activities.

Philip Tarver, owner of Lake Charles Toyota and Toyota Ford said, “We are partnering with CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital on this project because everyone can benefit from this advanced technology. My family and I have the upmost respect for St. Pat’s because our missions complement one another. Just like the hospital, we want to make life better for everyone.

We want everyone to benefit from this new equipment.

This mirrors our business approach and what we try to bring to the community through our product lines.”

“We are so grateful to have been given this generous donation from Philip and DeWanna Tarver. Through their generosity, they will help rehabilitation patients at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hos-

Volunteering at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital

Volunteers enhance the quality of service and compassionate care provided at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital. They are an integral part of the hospital team; helping to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ day in and day out. We are seeking individuals with caring hearts and helpful hands to lend their time, talents and enthusiasm. If you would like to volunteer or want more information, please contact Gene Zimmermann, Volunteer Coordinator, at (337) 4317941 or email him at gene. zimmermann@christushealth.org.

26 June 19, 2014

Vol. 6 • No. 6

pital get back the freedom of living without limitations or fear,” said CHRISTUS St. Patrick Administrator Donald Lloyd II. “We are privileged and proud to partner with companies like Lake Charles Toyota and Tarver Ford. The Tarver family sets the standard for service and philanthropy in Southwest Louisiana.”

The Regional Physical Rehabilitation Center in CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital is a 23-bed CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit and Physical Medicine Service under the guidance of Dr. Thomas C. LaBorde, a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist, who has served as Medical Director since 2008. Erin Rhoads, MPT, has served as Director of the Regional Physical Rehabilitation Center since 2007.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

June 19, 2014 27

Facts About the Calcasieu Community Clinic When was the Calcasieu Community Clinic established and why?

The Calcasieu Community Clinic was established to provide accessible health care for the growing population of low-income, working uninsured adults in Southwest Louisiana.

A board of directors formed and incorporated the clinic on July 21, 1999. It took approximately 18 months of planning, fundraising and volunteer recruitment before the doors opened for patients in February 2001.

What kinds of services are offered?

The clinic offers physician evaluation and treatment, routine laboratory testing and Xray, ultrasound and mammography, nutritional counseling and diabetic education, limited gynecological care, pharmaceutical assistance, limited dental and vision care (by referral

only) and medically supervised weight loss.

What type of services are not offered?

We do not offer any mental health services, immunizations, surgeries or emergency services.

Our pharmacy does not dispense any narcotics or controlled substances.

When is the clinic open?

The clinic’s doors are opened at 4 p.m. on Thursdays. Patients are screened for eligibility between 4 – 6 p.m., and physicians begin treating patients as soon as they arrive. Pharmacy is open from 5:30 – 7 p.m. on Thursday. Administrative hours are 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Thursday and 8:30 p.m. – noon on Friday.

Where is it located?

The clinic is housed at McNeese State University in Juliet

Hardtner Hall, on the corner of Common St. and Sale Rd. The entrance faces Sale Rd. How do people qualify to be seen at the clinic?

Qualifying persons are uninsured, employed at least 20 hours per week and having a total household income at, or below, 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines ($39,580 for a family of three). Some services are available to persons up to 250 percent of Federal Poverty Guidelines. If one spouse is working in the household and the other is not, AND they qualify otherwise, both persons are eligible for services.

People who are unemployed for six months or less and actively seeking employment qualify for a period of six months from the date they last worked. Also eligible are self-supporting fulltime students “working’” toward their education: college, technical school, beauty school, etc.

What does a person have to bring to qualify to be seen at the clinic?

In order for eligibility to be determined, applicants must bring the following: Proof of residence in Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, of Jefferson Davis parishes, three most recent pay stubs from their job, drivers’ license or photo identification, social security card and a copy of their most recent Federal Income Tax Return.

Do they have to pay for the services?

The clinic does not accept fees for the services it offers, as it is supported by the community it serves. The Calcasieu Medical Society Foundation holds a fundraiser to benefit the clinic and it has been a United Way Agency since 2003. Area industries and businesses have also been instrumental in its success. Grant funds and individual contributions make up the remaining funds needed to

28 June 19, 2014

offset operating costs and allow the clinic to provide all services at no charge to the recipient.

“We are blessed in reducing operating costs associated with bricks and mortar since we are housed as guests of McNeese State University,” says Director Kayla Rigney.

Will the Clinic be affected by the Affordable Care Act/Obamacare?

Although the Affordable Care Act means that there may be expanded insurance coverage for some uninsured persons, but it is not a cure-all. There are still many who will remain uninsured or who will not be able to afford the options that are provided to them. Louisiana is one of the states that elected not to expand the Medicaid program and due to this, many working people don’t make enough money to qualify for subsidies under the federal program. What the Clinic is experiencing at this early stage is that there continues to be a significant need for medical services for the patient population that it is positioned to serve--- low income, working uninsured persons ---because the ACA does not cover everyone and/or because the cost to participate is not something that can realistically be paid by many persons at that income level.

Taken as a whole, for the Calcasieu Community Clinic this means it will continue to work in partnership with the other safety-net providers in our community to prepare for changes as the ACA is in the early stages of implementation.

Healthcare in this country is dramatically changing, and the Clinic is committed to providing free health care for the low income, working uninsured in our community until there is no longer a need.

For additional information about the Calcasieu Community Clinic, visit their website at www.calcasieucommunityclinic.com or call (337) 478-8650.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Robinson Dental Group Opens Moss Bluff Office Robinson Dental Group is pleased to announce the opening of its newest dental office in Moss Bluff, located at 180 Gloria Dr., Ste. 400 (off Hwy. 171, near Fred’s Pharmacy).

“Our new Moss Bluff office provides families with a convenient, comfortable environment where they can receive the latest in comprehensive, quality dental care,” said Dr. Tim Robinson of Robinson Dental Group.

To celebrate its grand opening, Robinson Dental Group is offering free new patient exams and complete mouth x-rays.

This offer expires on June 30.

Robinson Dental Group offers all areas of general family dentistry, preventive care and specialty care services, including sedation dentistry, dental implants, Invisalign, Botox and other cosmetic dentistry services. Robinson Dental Group ac-

Vol. 6 • No. 6

cepts most insurance plans and offers patients without insurance the opportunity to enroll in the Dental Health Club, with discounts and advantages to make dentistry more affordable.

“Our patient-centered staff is proud to bring you the highest standard of service and care available, all with one result in mind—a healthy, beautiful smile through the most appropriate course of action for each patient, with the same commitment of service that we provide to patients at our Lake Charles office on Country Club Rd.,” said Dr. Robinson.

The Moss Bluff office is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Prospective patients can call the Moss Bluff Robinson Dental Group office at (337) 429-5057 or visit their website at www.robinsondentalgroup.net for more information.

June 19, 2014 29

Game Changer in Treating Post Surgical Pain The pain that follows a major surgery, such as a joint replacement, can be extreme.

Now, there is a new drug being used at Lake Charles Memorial that is considered a game changer in treating post surgical pain. It’s called Exparel and it is injected during surgery and takes away the pain in the most critical recovery days.

“We inject the drug around the joint in the operating room,” says Dr. Nathan Cohen, an orthopaedic surgeon with the Memorial Medical Group. “Over the course of 72 hours the medication is released and it gives you typically three days of pain relief.”

Marilyn Martine experienced the benefit firsthand, twice. She has been a school bus driver in Allen Parish for 30 years. She had arthritis in both of her knees and the pain become so unbearable, she knew she had to do something.

“I hurt so bad that they could cut the knee off completely and it wouldn’t have bothered me a bit,” she says.

“It would’ve felt better.”

Martine was referred to Dr. Cohen after living with the pain in her knees for three years. She had both knees replaced about six months apart.

Exparel was used each time, giving her a less painful experience and a faster recovery.

“I woke up waiting for that horrible pain to kick in, but it never came,” Martine recalls.

“I woke up and I was ready to go. I walked around the hospital that same day without a can or walker.”

Once the medicine wears off, the pain is dramatically less than it would have been right after surgery. For Martine, all she felt was a little soreness. She was able to start physical therapy earlier and can get out of the hospital faster.

“Patients are alert. They are comfortable. They can get up and walk right after the surgery,” Dr. Cohen says. “Most of my patients walk the same day and go home within 24 to 36 hours of the operation.”

Physical therapy after surgery is viewed as just as im-

portant to the overall success of a joint replacement as the surgery itself. Being able to start the therapy right away, help Martine move towards a pain free life.

Dr. Cohen uses Exparel on all of his total hip and knee replacements. Patients are still

prescribed prescription pain killers, but use very few, if any.

Oftentimes, over-the-counter medications like Advil, Aleve or Tylenol are sufficient.

For more information, Dr. Cohen can be reached by calling Orthopaedic Specialists at (337) 494.4900.

Memorial Welcomes Linda Huynh, MD Memorial Medical Group welcomes Linda Huynh, MD, an obstetrician and gynecologist, to their staff. She will join fellow OB/ GYNs Drs. Gisele McKinney and Dr. Joseph Semien at their practice located at 1890 West Gauthier Road, Suite 135.

Dr. Huynh received her bachelors degree from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. She then went on to receive her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in Dominica where she graduated with highest 30 June 19, 2014

honors before completing her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Hofstra North Shore – LIJ School of Medicine in New Hyde Park, New York.

Dr. Huynh provides women with a full spectrum of obstetric and gynecological care such as pelvic health, family planning, pregnancy, menopause, urinary tract disorders and operative gynecology. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call (337) 480-5510.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Vol. 6 • No. 6

June 19, 2014 31

At the end of 2013, a SouthernCare, Inc. patient planned to be married to his fiancée of many years. Unfortunately, due to his illness, their plans had to be put on hold.

When the employees of SouthernCare heard about this, they put their heads together and went to work. Shortly after the first of the year, the couple had their wedding. It was small and intimate, held at the couple’s home and conducted by SouthernCare Chaplain Bob Murray. This is just an example of how SouthernCare goes the extra mile for the people who are in their care.

If your physician told you that you only had a few months – or weeks - to live, what would you do first? Do you have a Living Will? Would you remain in your home?

These are all questions that the professionals at SouthernCare deal with on a daily basis in helping families navigate through the rough waters as their loved ones cope with terminal illnesses. The company provides hospice services to patients who reside in private homes, group homes, assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities and hospitals.

For Hospice Caregivers, Job is a Calling “It isn’t just a job for the people who work with us; it’s a calling,” said Leslie Cubbage, Lake Charles Executive Director. “These are special people and they really care about the families they spend time with. We also have a full-time chaplain and social worker on our staff.”

Cubbage said that it’s so important for people to have a plan in place well in advance of re32 June 19, 2014

ceiving a diagnosis of a major illness. “It’s vital to do that before illness strikes because you can make those decisions while you still can.”

As needs and situations change, you can always modify your directives, such as: • Living Will. This contains your desires for how aggressive care is at the end of life.

• Medical Power of Attorney. Authorizes someone to make decisions on your behalf.

• Do Not Resuscitate Order. An order to withhold cardiopulmonary resuscitation if your heart or breathing stops.

Another important decision could include the wish to enter into hospice so that family members have help with caring for their loved one.

What exactly is hospice care? It’s a particular way of caring for patients who no longer benefit from curative treatment and have a limited life expectancy. Hospice care is designed to provide comfort and support for the patient and their family. The goal of the hospice team, as explained by SouthernCare, is to be sensitive and responsive to the special requirements of each individual and family. Emphasis is on helping the person make the most of each hour and each day of their remaining life by providing comfort and relief from pain and other symptoms. Hospice affirms life and regards dying as a normal process.

Hospice Care Has Evolved According to Tiffany Hudson, Lake Charles Clinical Director, hospice has greatly evolved over the years. For instance, many

people may believe that hospice care is only for those with a cancer diagnosis. While cancer was originally the most prevalent hospice diagnosis, today, more and more people with non-cancer diagnoses are being admitted for hospice care.

In 2006, for the first time, less than 50 percent of the patients admitted to hospice had a cancer diagnosis. Since its inception, SouthernCare has focused on providing care for patients with non-cancer diagnoses. The following are common diagnoses of patients receiving hospice care: • ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) • Alzheimer’s • Cancer • Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA – Stroke) • Coronary Artery Disease • Congestive Heart Failure • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) • End Stage Dementia • End Stage Degenerative Neurological Diseases (Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, etc.)

• End Stage Renal Disease • General Debility/Failure to Thrive • Liver Disease • HIV/AIDs • Renal Failure In fact, most elderly hospice patients demonstrate more than one chronic debilitating condition. SouthernCare’s skilled admission coordinators work with the patient’s physician to evaluate if your loved one qualifies for hospice services.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

ple of memory bears that were made

by Barbara Landry, one of SouthernCare’s volunteers, and as much as he “We individualize every patient’s care,” Stan LeLeux Hudson said. “No two situations are the same cherishes the bears, he also has a deep and no two people are the same. For instance, appreciation for the staff at SouthernCare. some patients remain in their homes while “In this world we live in, it’s beothers are in assisted living facilities.” come a ‘what have you done for me Among the services hospice care provides lately’ mentality,” Leleux said. “Once a are the following: • 24 hour support by phone or personal visit service or job has been completed, it’s rare for a service provider to keep in • Physician Care – Medical Management contact with no monetary scheme on • Direct Nursing Care their agenda. True caring was the only • Home Care Aides for bathing and other factor these two ladies (Leslie Cubpersonal services bage and Devin Cash) had on their • Homemaker Services agenda when they brought me the • Social Services bears. They represent a company that • Spiritual Counseling cares because their people care.”

• Volunteer Services Pet therapy is another feature • Symptom Management (pain & other that SouthernCare is proud to ofsymptoms) fer. With this service, care providers • Medications related to the hospice diagbring animals (usually dogs) to spend pice is not about dying but about living. Each nosis SouthernCare location has a wide range of • Medical Equipment (wheelchairs, hospital time with the patient. In some cases, it’s the patient’s own animal. Remarkably, just the volunteer opportunities for participants rangbeds, oxygen, etc) warmth of a dog can be almost magical since ing in age from teens to senior citizens. Cash • Medical Supplies (incontinent supplies, it takes the patient out of his or her illness for said some volunteers may have professional nutritional supplements) a moment. skills or specialized expertise, but most are • Nutritional Assistance “We’ve had patients be unresponsive for a just people who want to help their friends and • Physical, occupational and speech therapy day or two and then we’ll bring their own pet neighbors and serve the community.

• Respite Care in to visit them,” Cash said. “Maybe it’s a dog • Bereavement Support following the pathey have had for 10 years and there will be Treating Last Wishes tient’s death an immediate response from the patient. It’s With Special Care really quite amazing to see.”

Volunteers can even assist staff when tryMemory Bears a Special Touch ing to facilitate a special wish that a patient There are things that are being done at Volunteers are Vital might have. “Last wishes are something you SouthernCare that are unique and were initito SouthernCare want to treat with the utmost care,” Cash said. ated in the Lake Charles office by Volunteer In addition to care providers and other The idea is that, as long as a patient is living, Coordinator Devin Cash, such as the creation professionals at SouthernCare, there are hun- SouthernCare will try and provide the best of “memory bears” for families. Volunteers dreds of volunteers within the organization. quality of life they can for that patient. make the bears from clothing that was worn “Volunteers are vital to SouthernCare,” said “Part of that is doing everything in our by the person who has passed away.

Cash. “Families and volunteers share a deep power to try and make those last wishes come “The bears are then given to family sense of purpose. Volunteering, especially true,” she continued. “Volunteers are very members and become meaningful for them with hospice, is one of the most fulfilling helpful when we need an extra hand or somebecause they are made from something that things a person could ever do.” one to track down information. We’ve put totheir loved one once touched,” said Cash. “It’s Some of the things that volunteers can help gether last-minute weddings for patients. Our something tangible that reminds them of that with through SouthernCare include: spirIndianapolis office was able to send a patient person.” to watch the Indianapolis Colts at training Stan Leleux of Lake Charles received a cou- itual and emotional support; caretaker relief; household services; and compancamp, which is something he’d always wanted ionships to hospice patients and to do and had never been able to see them, families. Cash said that volunteers either at a game or at a training camp.” typically grow close to the families The man was taken to the training camp and also end up baking cookies, in an ambulance, watched the action from reading with patients, making the sidelines, and even got autographs from phone calls on their behalf, and several players on the team, including quarsometimes, just sitting quietly terback Peyton Manning. A wonderful dream with them. that he’d had for many years had finally, in the Many of the hospice volunteers, last stages of his life, been realized. He passed according to SouthernCare, were away just two days later. introduced to hospice through For more information regarding the volthe death of a family member and unteer program or hospice services, you can Tim Tim Neidigh Neidigh understand firsthand the value contact the SouthernCare Lake Charles office Dr. C Dr. Craig raig V V.. of hospice care.

Th e volunteers at 127 Williamsburg St., Lake Charles, LA Broussard Broussard Hospice Nurse Hospice Nurse consistently report that helping 70605 (337) 474-3743; (337) 474-9828 (Fax); Medical D Medical Director irector Practitioner Practitioner the terminally ill through hoswww.southerncarehospice.com.

Each Patient’s Care is Individualized

Vol. 6 • No. 6

June 19, 2014 33

Center Coliseum will be transformed into an old movie house complete with pizza

by Gatti’s, hot dogs, nachos, popcorn and ice cream.

Always a summer tradition, this year’s Pops offers funfilled entertainment for the entire family. Film clips from some Lights! Camera! Action! of Hollywood’s favorite movThe Lake Charles Symphony and First Federal Bank present ies, including Gone with the “Pops Goes to the Movies” on Wind, Rocky, Forrest Gump, E.T., and Pirates of the CaribSaturday, July 12 at 7:30 p.m. bean, will be projected onto Doors and concessions will two large screens. open at 6:30 p.m. The Civic

34 June 19, 2014

The orchestra, led by guest conductor Carl Topilow, will perform such memorable movie scores as Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings. Equally at home in the symphonic and pops worlds, Topilow combines his experience as a conductor and his outgoing personality to present an imaginative and interactive concert for the whole family. Surprises are in store for the audience as various costumed characters appear and conduct the orchestra.

Topilow, who founded and runs the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, is an in-demand conductor and performer who has appeared with nearly 100 orchestras across the globe.

“All told, the concert promises to be a program of big screen delights with big

sounds,” Topilow says. One of the audience’s favorites?

Pirates of the Caribbean.

“People love it,” he says. “It gets a huge response.”

Soprano Sarah Callahan with her lovely lyric mezzo voice will sing the unforgettable “My Heart Will Go On” from the movie Titanic. Local TV personalities John Bridges and Britney Glaser will emcee the event, and are sure to delight the audience when they appear as two characters from one of Hollywood’s most epic movies. Adults and children are encouraged to come in costumes, representing their favorite movies. As guests enter under an oldfashioned movie marquee, they will be escorted to their seats by members of The Children’s Theatre Company, dressed as characters from Wizard of Oz. Riser seats are $20 for adults (18 +); $10 for students (7-17); and FREE for children 6 and under. Reserved seating at tables includes individual reserved seats - $50; reserved tables of 8 - $350; reserved tables of 10 - $400; premium tables of 8 (includes Gatti’s pizza, adult beverages, and soft drinks) - $1,000; and premium tables of 10 (includes Gatti’s pizza, adult beverages and soft drinks) - $1,250.

Tickets may be purchased by calling 433-1611 or by going online at www.lcsymphony. com. Follow the Lake Charles Symphony on Facebook.

The Symphony gratefully acknowledges First Federal Bank, Sasol, Capital One and Entergy for their support of the Summer Pops, Navarra’s for the printing of the tickets, and to the following concession sponsors: Gatti’s Pizza; McElroy, Quirk, and Burch; Dr. and Mrs. Ben Thompson and Rau Financial Group.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Party By the Pool June 19 & 26, July 3

LC Men’s City Golf Championship June 20-22

It’s time to Party By the Pool at L’Auberge Casino Resort! On June 19, it’s Counting Crows and Toad the Wet Sprocket. On June 26, it’s Andy Frasco. And don’t miss Kenny Wayne Shepherd on July 3! Purchase your tickets at www.ticketmaster.com, the L’Auberge Business Center, or Legends at L’Auberge the night of the show.

Must be 21 to attend.

Mallard Cove Golf Course will host the 37th Annual Lake Charles Men’s City Golf Championship sponsored by IBERIABANK June 20-22. Entry fee is $125 and entry forms can be picked up at all IBERIABANK branch locations in Calcasieu Parish and at Mallard Cove Golf Course. The entry deadline is June 13 or after the first 160 paid entries have been received. For more information, contact Derek Smith at 491-1204.

Art Associates Gallery Mid-summer Show June 20-July 25 The Artisans Gallery will hold a Midsummer Show in the Arts-Associates Gallery in Central School opening June 20 and running through July 25. The opening reception will be held on June 20, from 5:307:30 p.m. The show is hosted by Art Associates at their Central School gallery located in the Charlestown Cultural District of Lake Charles.

Battle on the Bayou June 20-21 The Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team, a nationally recognized team comprised of amputee active duty military personnel and veterans, will return to Southwest Louisiana and play against Olympic Gold medalist Jennie Finch-Daigle and a team of all-stars June 20-21 in the “Battle on the Bayou II” softball tournament. The tournament will be held at McMurry Park in Sulphur, with game events beginning each night at 5 p.m. For more information, please call (337) 528-4735.

Bayoucon June 20-22

Friday, June 20: Swirl’n Fun Join us from 10:30 a.m.-noon in the ArtSpace and experiment with exciting designs using our Swirl’n Spin art machine!

Monday, June 23: Gyotaku Fish Prints Experiment with this Japanese technique of printing fish. Class begins at 2:30 p.m. and is limited to 20 children ages 4 and up.

Tuesday, June 24: Ceramic Fish Banks Design your own ceramic fish bank. Classes begin at 11 a.m. and noon and are limited to 20 children ages 4 and up.

Wednesday, June 25: Strawberries Enjoy fresh strawberries from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Thursday, June 26: The Nature Gang Meet our new iguana “Iggy III” who’s growing up really fast! At 11 a.m., our director, Dan Ellender, will let you pet our cockatiels “Lola” and “Maya” as well as learn all about their habitats and diets.

We will also feed the fish.

Friday, June 27: Kinetic Sand Fun Great mess-free sand that children can sculpt, stretch, mold and pull will be in the ArtSpace from 10:30 a.m.-noon Monday, June 30: Tambourines Paint a tambourine! Class begins at 2:30 p.m. and is limited to 24 children ages 4 and up.

The Children’s Museum is located at 327 Broad Street downtown Lake Charles. Museum hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is $7.50 for children and adults. Call 337-433-9420 or visit www.swlakids.org for more information.

36 June 19, 2014

BayouCon is a celebration of all things fandom, combining the very best in anime, sci-fi, comics, and gaming jam-packed in a fan-produced event. This three-day event will be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Go to www.bayoucon.net for admission prices and advance purchase discounts. Call 513-8927 for more information.

Big Trout Bonanza Tournament June 21 Chick-fil-A of Lake Charles will host the first annual Big Trout Bonanza fishing tournament on Sat., June 21 at Calcasieu Point Landing, 3955 Henry Pugh Rd. Proceeds will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project. Registration is $150 until June 19 at Cajun Tackle, 2640 Country Club Road. Late registration is $165 and will be at Calcasieu Point Landing on the day before and the day of the event. Contestants must have a valid Louisiana fishing license. For more information, email bigtroutbonanza@ gmail.com or like the event on Facebook.

Juneteenth Celebration June 21 Celebrate Juneteenth at the Lake Charles Civic Center! There will be live music on the Center Stage with the best sounds at Zydeco, R&B and Southern soul. Enjoy contests, domino championships and the Celebrity Bar-B-Q Cook-Off! Music and fun for the entire family in a day-long celebration, which commemorates the anniversary of the emancipation of the Southern slaves. For more information, call 491-9955.

Catch-A-Concert June 23, 30 Head over to the Lake Charles Civic Center (front lawn) every Monday in June! Bring your blanket, lawn chair and friends Vol. 6 • No. 6

and enjoy a free concert as the sun sets over shimmering Lake Charles. Composed of volunteers, the Community Band will take the stage from 7–8:30 p.m. There’s a new theme every week, so you won’t see the same show twice. For information on the Community Band, visit www.lakecharlescommunityband.teamr.com

SWLA Patriot’s Ball June 28 The City of Lake Charles Mayor’s Armed Forces Commission will host the Eighth Annual Southwest Louisiana Patriot’s Ball on Sat., June 28, at the Lake Charles Civic Center Contraband Room. A social half-hour will kick off the event at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 6 p.m. The ball will honor three individuals and one corporation with the annual Patriot of the Year award, followed by DJ and dancing. Tickets can be purchased at the Civic Center or at the USS Orleck Museum, 604 N. Enterprise Blvd. For more information, call 491-1256.

McNeese Trivia Night July 10 Get ready for a Trivia Night filled with both McNeese history and local trivia at 6 p.m. July 10 at the Cash & Carry at 801 Enterprise Blvd. in Lake Charles. This McNeese 75th anniversary event will pit teams against each other in a “Thinkfast” game show format with multiple choice and speed rounds for cash and prizes. There will also be a dinner buffet and cash bar.

Tickets are $30 per person. A table of eight is available for $250 that includes reserved seating and wine. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at http://75th.mcneese.edu

Navajo Weaving Exhibit Through July 12 Discover works of art created by Navajo weavers and how styles were influenced by tradition and trade at the Stark Museum of Art in Orange, Texas. Open Tues.- Sat. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Located at 712 Green Avenue, Orange. Go to www.starkmuseum.org for more information.

to the movies (with videos projected above the orchestra) with Hollywood favorites including Gone with the Wind, Rocky, Forrest Gump, Titanic and Pirates of the Caribbean. Equally at home in the symphonic and pops world, guest conductor Carl Topilow combines his experience as a conductor, skills as a clarinetist, and outgoing personality to present an innovative and interactive concert for the whole family on Sat., July 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Rosa Hart Theater.

Visit www.lcsymphony.org for ticket info.

Cajun Music & Food Festival July 18-20 Burton Coliseum will be jumping with lively Cajun sounds July 18-20 for the 27th Annual Cajun Music and Food Festival, presented by the LC Chapter of the Cajun French Music Association. Enjoy continuous Cajun music, dancing, arts and crafts, food, sweet shop, ice cream, live auction, silent auction, raffles, and cake walks ending with free admission to a Cajun Mass on Sunday morning to end the festival. For more information, call 274-2482.

Gridiron July 19 Gridiron, the annual night of skits, songs and laughter, is the show that the American Press called “the ‘Saturday Night Live’ of Southwest Louisiana.” The fundraiser pokes fun at local and state newsmakers and the media through skits, songs, monologues and videos. It will be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center on Sat., July 19. For tickets or to inquire about corporate sponsorships, call the Gridiron voicemail hotline at 583-4766 or send an e-mail to gridironshow@ yahoo.com.

Weddings With Style Bridal Show July 13 Planning a wedding? Then head to the Calcasieu Marine Bank Building on July 13 at 1 p.m. for the Weddings With Style Bridal Show.

Meet photographers, wedding cake designers, caterers, musicians, wedding consultants, hair and makeup artists, and other creative wedding professionals. Admission is $5. Call 652-4101 or 310-0405.

Pops Goes the Movies!

July 17 Lights! Camera! Action! The Lake Charles Symphony goes Vol. 6 • No. 6

June 19, 2014 37

ture where earth has been laid to waste by the Sentinels, busily hunting the few mutants left.

Like a popular video game, mutants keep jumping out of holes in space, attacking the Sentinels, and then escaping back into another hole in space.

An aged Professor X (Patrick Stewart) and his enemy, Magneto (Ian McKellen) have joined forces to try and win the battle once and for all. Their secret weapon?

Time Travel. Someone needs to go back in time and prevent the Sentinels from being deployed.

The trouble is, Magneto and Professor X are too old for the trip. Thankfully, Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) is with the Professor and Magneto, and still a fairly young man. Wolverine is sent back in time to 1972 and this is the bulk of the story. Briefly, Mystique is trying to kill Dr. Trask before he sells the Sentinels to the government and Wolverine has to stop her to save the world. It’s complicated.

There’s so much going on in Days of Future Past that you’ll do good just to keep up.

X-Men: Days of Future Past (Fox, 2014)

The X-Men were conceived of as mutated humans, misfit freaks in a world of clueless normal humans. In the series, Charles Xavier (Professor X) runs a private school where young mutants can come and live and learn about their powers.

As usual, in Days of Future Past, someone is trying to take over the world. In this case, it’s a group of robots called the Sentinels. Basically machines, the Sentinels aren’t nearly as interesting as their backstory. (Hint: The Sentinels were originally created to stomp out mutants, because mutants, as anyone knows, are a conspiracy.)

This is the old theme of humansfearing-those-who-are-different. And Days of Future Past goes to great lengths to make mutants seem different, sometimes with creepy eyes, or strange hairstyles, or wings coming out of their back. Probably the most unusual looking mutant is Mystique (Jessica Lawrence), a blue changeling with the skin of an iguana.

Our story begins in a dystopian fu-

38 June 19, 2014

We’ve gotten to the point in movies where special effects aren’t enough to entertain us. In fact, they sort of slip into the background. This is why some of these comic book movies fall flat and all seem the same after a while.

But Days of Future Past stands out, because the story is so compelling and the acting is stellar. There’s a love triangle (Professor X, Mystique, Magneto) a really nasty human villain Dr. Trask (creator of the Sentinels) and best of all, Richard Nixon from the ‘70s (who is not the villain.)

Most Super Hero movies throw in some humor, and Days of Future Past makes it work. Because many of the mutants in this film are college age or younger, their personalities sometimes cause them to creatively misbehave. In particular, you’ll enjoy a young man named Quicksilver. He’s the world’s fastest couch potato, allowing him to change clothes, have a beer, and play a videogame while you’re standing there blinking your eyes. (Sure, but what’s his super power?)

All the action stops are pulled out for this movie, and they take us crashing into a pillow for a wind-down ending. Funny how time travel changes things. There’s something for everyone here, but don’t feel bad if you leave the theater confused. Especially if you wait through the credits for the now-expected Marvel teaser before the lights come on.

X-Men: Days of Future Past is rated PG-13 mainly for those claw things that sprout out of Wolverine’s knuckles.

Fans should love it, but everyone should wear ear protection. This is the loudest summer movie so far. Enjoy!

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Movie Music Magic With the Lake Charles Symphony I’ve been involved behind the scenes of a short film or two and have even been lucky enough to include a couple of indie features on that list. One of my favorite observations made by a filmmaker friend is whenever the sound is bad, it immediately flags the film as amateur. But whenever the sound is great, they compliment the cinematographer! The irony, of course, is the cinematographer is largely responsible for the look of the film, not the sound.

You may have guessed this would be common sense, but Hollywood marketers look at motion pictures as “emotion pictures.” And for many folks, music is a direct line to the heart. Only a handful of movie composers are household names, yet most of us would probably be surprised at how many movie themes we really know!

The closest I ever got to composing was having my character hum an eerie tune while making coffee. Nothing at all like a Hollywood soundtrack! Occasionally, music and the movie it came from become so entwined it turns into the “chicken and egg” paradox. The iconic Saturday Night Fever starring John Travolta gliding across the dance floor to the Bee Gees is one of these. It is the only film I’ve seen where the music tracks are listed first in the end credits. The movie and its soundtrack shot to number one Vol. 6 • No. 6

so fast it was hard to say if the hit film fueled soundtrack sales or the hit soundtrack fueled ticket sales! “Stayin’ Alive, ah, ah, ah, ah….”

If you love movie music, then you may want to dance on over to the Civic Center Coliseum on July 12. Heck, if you’re not sure if you know any movie music you may still want to dance on over to the Civic Center on July 12.

Movie themes are so ingrained in our culture you may discover you’re quite familiar with music from movies you’ve only seen once. And this year’s Summer Pops concert by the Lake Charles Symphony caters to both kinds of music lovers. This isn’t just a concert, it’s an experience.

You’ll get to feel the live music resonate while watching video from your favorite films at this year’s concert. We’re talking everything from E.T. to Forrest Gump; Gone with the Wind to 2001: A Space Odyssey. Composer John Williams may be a household name but I bet you’ll be asking about Alan Silvestri and Howard Shore by the end of the night.

Did you know Howard Shore, who composed the Lord of the Rings trilogy, originally scored music for Saturday Night Live?

Or that he formed the Blues Brothers band? And classical music fans might take note that Shore was inspired by Richard

Wagner operas while composing Rings. One exception is that director Peter Jackson wanted the lair scene in the third movie to sound completely different from the rest of the trilogy. He told Shore to pretend he was composing for the sci-fi film The Fly! And at this year’s Summer Pops, you’ll get to hear a whole slew of themes from Stephen Spielberg’s favorite composer John Williams. To date, Williams has composed all of Spielberg’s movies except one: The Color Purple. In fact, Spielberg loved the music Williams created for the final chase sequence in the movie E.T. so much, that Spielberg edited the images to suit it. Usually, music is put in after picture editing, not the other way around!

Williams’ career wasn’t an instant success. He had been working for 20 years in film before the soundtrack for Jaws bumped him into the big leagues of movie music. And if picking out Star Wars characters based on their themes is a pleasure you share with Williams, you’re in luck, because the

orchestra will be playing that, too. Williams was inspired to create a large symphonic score for Star Wars by another composer you will hear at the concert, Erich Wolfgang Korngold. During the ‘70s, grand orchestral music was not really in until Williams revived it for George Lucas’ little space film. And the rest is history.

I admit, I can hardly wait to re-live favorite movie moments onscreen accompanied by live orchestra music! The debate now begins… should I go in costume and how would I choose? The movies mentioned in this article are only a handful of the themes that will be played! Perhaps I should just go as me, and enjoy the vast variety of music in sandals and a sundress.

You can enjoy the movie music magic yourself on July 12 at the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum. Tickets are $20 for adults 18 and older; ages 7 to 17 are $10; ages 6 and under are free.

For special reserved seating, visit www.lcsymphony.com.

Until next month, save me some popcorn!

June 19, 2014 39

Gift Books for Display or Inspiration These are some of the wonderful gift books I’ve found recently.

They’re so nice, you may want to give one to yourself! They will also look great on your coffee table.

Time Life Books, known for its gorgeous pictures, has published World War II in 500 Photographs.

This book is impressive, great for history buffs or anyone who appreciates great photography.

From 1939 to 1945, almost 60 million people were killed in the Second World War. “It is impossible to overstate the bravery of the photographers who chronicled the war from its beginning to the end,” write the editors. Some of the photos included were shot by professionals, others by soldiers who took

40 June 19, 2014

snapshots of their friends or local citizens they encountered. Some “recorded the horrors inflicted upon the elderly and children or a pile of dead enemy soldiers along a sunken road.”

The book opens with an image of Nazi soldiers at a rally in 1936 and closes with photos of modern Tokyo and the fall of the Berlin wall. This collection of memorable photographs offers a panoramic view of the entire war. Of course, most of the photographs are black and white, but there’s a surprising amount of color. Time Life, paperback, 272 pages, 7.8 x 9.7 inches, $17.95.

Time Life Books also offers Everything You Need to Know About the Bible: From Genesis to Revelation, Your Illustrated Guide. This volume is the same size and price as the World War II book, but this one has absolutely beautiful color illustrations, mostly of famous paintings based on Bible stories, as well as color maps of the Holy Land.

The guide takes a look at the Bible itself, the stories and the history, the Dead Sea Scrolls, the sites and events of the Old Testament, the life of Jesus and his ministry, the spreading of the gospel, and the prophecies in Revelation.

This is not the text of the Bible, but rather an overview. Just opening the book assures that the reader will be fascinated, if only by the wonderful color prints.

If you’re looking for inspiration, check out Questions for the Dalai Lama: Answers on Love, Success, Happiness & the Meaning of Life edited by Dede Cummings and Travis Hellstrom. His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama of Tibet, who has been in exile from his country since 1959, “tirelessly dedicates his efforts to promote inner peace and global understanding,” write the editors, who describe him as “an unwavering advocate for world peace.”

This little gift book is divided into five parts: love, compassion, success, life’s challenges, and happiness, found in short excerpts quoted from the Dalai Lama’s many published books, articles and speeches. The foreword suggests they be read “during life’s challenges, when contemplating happiness, or simply when seeking an inspiration for the day.” Some of the great sage’s insights: “We can never obtain peace in our outer world until we make peace with

ourselves”; “Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it”; “Remember that sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck.”

Hatherleigh Press, hardcover, 92 pages, 4-7/8 x 7-5/8 inches, $12.50.

Dining at the White House: From the President’s Table to Yours by John Moeller with Mike

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Lovell just won two Gold Medal Benjamin Franklin Awards, for Best Cookbook of the Year and Best Celebrity Memoir of the Year, from the Independent Publishers Association.

Chef John Moeller cooked at the White House for more than 13 years, for three presidents (George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush) and for such special guests as Tony Blair, Nelson Mandela, Julia Child and Sophia

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Loren. “I was privileged to see history made, but from a very personal, intimate point of view,” he writes.

This volume is half memoir/history book and half cookbook, containing more than 100 full color illustrations and more than 100 recipes personally created

by Chef Moeller and served at the White House. The chef tells us he likes to use fresh, seasonal ingredients inspired by his classical French training with an American twist.

The book is very readable and full of interesting anecdotes. Moeller relates what goes on behind the scenes of official state dinners as well as casual lunches with the first family. He includes some of the menus for state dinners, with photographs of the place settings.

Some of his recipes are Warm Tamale Salad with Avocado, Tomato and Black Beans and Citrus Dressing, Lobster Bisque with Pesto Galettes, Florida Yellowtail

Snapper and Sauteed Leeks with Saffron Corn Sauce, and Warm Flourless Chocolate Torte with Raspberry Sauce and Almond Tuile.

LifeReloaded Specialty Publishing, hardcover, 416 pages, 7.5 x 9.125 inches, $35.

Let’s not forget the kids. Time for Kids Big Book of When has “801 facts kids want to know.” This is a pretty, full-color hardcover book, chock full of photos and illustrations, and good for kids of just about any age.

Despite the title, facts are not presented in timelines, but are divided into categories such as time, animals, communications, flight, energy, the solar system, the digital age, food, transportation, civilizations, and sports.

Questions include When did people begin using water as a source of power? When was the first hot-air balloon launched? When do birds migrate? When does a curveball curve? When did people start eating peanut butter?

It takes the reader from the

beginning of language to today’s smartphones; from the pyramids to space travel; from the Pony Express to high-speed commuter trains. It also includes several make-it-yourself projects for kids, such as building a sundial, using Morse code, and creating a digital image. It even has a glossary. Anybody with a curiosity will have a hard time putting this book down.

Hardcover, 192 pages, 8.2 x 9.3 inches, $19.95.

Copyright © 2014 by Mary Louise Ruehr.

June 19, 2014 41

Thursday, June 19 Thursday Dollar Night @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer and Bar all night Free cover until 10 p.m. with College ID 5329 Common St., Lake Charles

Paul Gonsoulin 7 p.m. @ Stellar Beans Coffee House 319 Broad St, Lake Charles

Julie Williams 6 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Street Side Jazz Band 7 p.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan St, Lake Charles

John Guidroz & Kevin Lambert 10 p.m. @ Micci’s Piano Bar 3606 Ryan St., Lake Charles

Bob Karwin 6 p.m. @ Cooler’s Ice House 3622 Ryan St., Lake Charles

Julie Williams 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Isis 10:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

The Coleman Brothers 8 p.m. - Midnight @ Caribbean Cove Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave, Westlake

DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Bernie Allen 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Counting Crows & Toad the Wet Sprocket 7 p.m, @ Party by the Pool’s Liquid Society L’Auberge Casino Resort Pool 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles Admission: $25 David Joel 8 p.m.-midnight @ Caribbean Cove Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave., Westlake Karaoke Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystals 112 Broad St., Lake Charles Stratton Doyle & Mike Dolan 10 p.m. @ Micci’s Piano Bar 3606 Ryan St., Lake Charles DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Friday, June 20 Travis Corbello & Dustin Landry 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), Lake Charles 42 June 19, 2014

Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie 9 p.m. @ Yesterdays 5313 Common St., Lake Charles Flashback Friday 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., Lake Charles

The Kid Carsons 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St, Lake Charles

Saturday, June 21 Public Cruise with City Heat 6 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), Lake Charles Julie Williams 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

BB & Company 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Dr, Vinton

Sean Hager 7 p.m. @ Stellar Beans Coffee 319 Broad St, Lake Charles

Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., Lake Charles

David Locklear 7 p.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan St, Lake Charles

Second Nature 9 p.m. - Midnight @ The Cigar Club 1700 E Prien Lake Rd, Lake Charles

JC Melancon 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), Lake Charles

Live Music 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Linda’s Lounge 4338 Lake St., Lake Charles God’s Forgotten & Von Dukes 9:30 p.m. @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G Lake Charles

Da Classics 8 p.m. - Midnight @ Caribbean Cove Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave, Westlake Karaoke with DJ David 8 p.m. @ Cooler’s Ice House 3622 Ryan St., Lake Charles Vol. 6 • No. 6

Robert Earl Keen 9 p.m. @ Yesterdays 5313 Common St., Lake Charles

Bill & Kev’s Excellent Adventure 10 p.m. @ Micci’s Piano Bar 3606 Ryan St., Lake Charles

DJ Night 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., Lake Charles

Isis 10:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Joe Harmon & The Harmonics 9 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Saturday Night Party Time 9 p.m. @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer and Bar until Midnight Free Cowboys Kool-aid 5329 Common St., Lake Charles Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., Lake Charles Wayne Dylan 9 p.m. - Midnight @ The Cigar Club 1700 E Prien Lake Rd, Lake Charles

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Sunday, June 22 Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan St, Lake Charles California Bad Girls 10:30 p.m. @ Crystals 112 Broad St., Lake Charles

Karaoke Night 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. @ Caribbean Cove Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave, Westlake

DJ Verrett & Karaoke 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Karaoke Night 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G Lake Charles

Movie Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystals 112 Broad St., Lake Charles

Tuesday, June 24

Ladies Night 5 p.m. - Midnight @ Caribbean Cove Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave, Westlake

Legends in Concert 5 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Street Side Jazz Band 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), Lake Charles

Wednesday, June 25

Louisiana Beer Night $2 any Louisiana Beer 6 p.m. - Midnight @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G Lake Charles

Monday, June 23

Karaoke Night 7 p.m. - Midnight @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., Lake Charles

Legends in Concert 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Howard Sonnier & Highway Lights 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), Lake Charles

Kevin Lambert 8 p.m. @ Micci’s Piano Bar 3606 Ryan St., Lake Charles

Kris Harper 8 p.m. @ Micci’s Piano Bar 3606 Ryan St., Lake Charles

June 19, 2014 43

Mic Night 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles The Posse 8 p.m. - Midnight @ Caribbean Cove Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave, Westlake

Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Cooler’s Ice House 3622 Ryan St., Lake Charles Talent Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystals 112 Broad St., Lake Charles

Thursday, June 26

Legends in Concert 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Andy Frasco 7 p.m, @ Party by the Pool’s Liquid Society

Mark Henry 8 p.m. - 11 p.m. @ The Cigar Club 1700 E Prien Lake Rd, Lake Charles

John Autin 6 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

L’Auberge Casino Resort Pool 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles Admission: $10

Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Kay Miller & Aaron Horne 6 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Cold Sweat 8 p.m. - Midnight @ Caribbean Cove Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave, Westlake

Krewe de Charlie Sioux Celebrates 20th Trip to Sioux City The Krewe de Charlie Sioux will be celebrating its 20th trip to Lake Charles’ sister city Sioux City, IA, bringing Mardi Gras with them!

This year’s theme is “Twenty Years of Friendship.” The gala will be presented on July 3, with costumes designed and built in Lake Charles. The local band “Zydecane” will also make the trip and entertain the crowd immediately after the gala.

Saturday in the Park, the upper Midwest’s premiere music concert, will be held on July 5, and will feature the Avett Brothers, Bonnie Raitt, Ziggy Marley, and Wild Feathers.

Krewe de Charlie Sioux is also working with LA Spirits to introduce Bayou Rum at the festival. “If we can navigate the red tape in time, there will be a Bayou Rum tasting for VIPs at the festival,” said Blane Bourgeois. “Charlie Sioux is assisting in getting Bayou Rum, our local product, to the State of Iowa.”

For more information, call Bourgeois at 249-6638.

44 June 19, 2014

Saturday in the Park Sioux City, IA

photo: Blane Bourgeois

ZZydecane Zy yde deca anee b band and an d members: memb me mber bers: errs: s TTimmy immy im my D Dugas, ugas ug as, Gi as G Giles iles les So le S Sonn Sonnier, onnie ierrr,, ie ZZack Za ck FFau ck Faulk, aulk au lk k, Al A Alastair las asta taiir ta ir W Whi White hitte hi te & EEus Eustec uste uste us tecc Le LLedet. edeet. t.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Shane Rodriguez & Hillbilly Trick Show 8:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

DJ Mata 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Karaoke Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystals 112 Broad St., Lake Charles

Friday, June 27

Thursday Dollar Night @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer and Bar all night Free cover until 10 p.m. with College ID 5329 Common St., Lake Charles Saint Arnold Brewery Beer Dinner 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St, Lake Charles

The Acoustic Commons 7 p.m. @ Stellar Beans Coffee 319 Broad St, Lake Charles Street Side Jazz Band 7 p.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan St, Lake Charles

John Autin 6 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Mike Fulmer 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), Lake Charles

Legends in Concert 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Night Ranger

Kay Miller & Aaron Horne 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

100 Westlake Ave, Westlake Live Music 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Linda’s Lounge 4338 Lake St., Lake Charles Flashback Friday 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., Lake Charles Leroy Thomas & Zydeco Brothers 9 p.m. @ Yesterdays 5313 Common St., Lake Charles

777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Joe Harmon & The Harmonics 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Dr, Vinton

X-IT 43 8 p.m. - Midnight @ Caribbean Cove Isle of Capri Casino

Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., Lake Charles

8 p.m. @ The Pavillion Coushatta Casino Resort

Live Album Concert Series The day of the rock album experience—think Pink Floyd’s “The Wall”—seems to have gone by the wayside.

Ushered in is the era of live streaming and cherry picking songs with downloads from iTunes.

What today’s generation is missing is the storytelling a full album experience provides. A few local artists are hoping to change this by recreating classic rock albums, from start to finish, in a live setting. Logan Fontenot of the Flamethrowers is spearheading this project.

“The idea came from a conversation about how artists create albums as a single entity with the intention to be listened to all the way through,” Fontenot said. “I’m hoping that this will become a fun, exciting way for the audience to get the full effect of their favorite records.”

The first of these live presenVol. 6 • No. 6

tations will be June 25 at Luna Live. Doors will open at 7 p.m. with the show starting at 8:30.

Fans can expect a full performance of Tom Petty’s “Damn the Torpedoes” which will be performed song-for-song.

To enhance the experience, decorations and drinks reflecting the artist will also be featured.

Fontenot plans to make this a series of concerts. Future album performances include Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours.”

He also sees this as an opportunity for local musicians to collaborate in a new and exciting way.

“It is a means to bring together local musicians who may not have had a chance to work together and foster a sense of community among them,” Fontenot said. Playing with Fontenot in this first concert are Paul Gonsoulin, Michael Krajicek, Kevin Lam-

bert, Taylor Lee and Jeremy Boudreaux. Other area musicians will be rotating through in future performances.

These concerts will be a multi-medium experience for concertgoers. Pictures and prior live performances of the album will be projected onto a wall at Luna Live while the musicians play live. This is

an additional way to draw the audience into the performance and the intended feel of the album.

For more information on the Live Album Concert Series, and to keep up-to-date on future performances, like the Lake Charles Live Album Concert Series page on Facebook.

June 19, 2014 45

Trip Wamsley & Luke Cooper 9 p.m. - Midnight @ The Cigar Club 1700 E Prien Lake Rd, Lake Charles

Kory Fontenot 7 p.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan St, Lake Charles

Dance Night 9 p.m. - 4 a.m. @ Crystals 112 Broad St., Lake Charles

Temptations and The Four Tops

John Guidroz & Kevin Lambert 10 p.m. @ Micci’s Piano Bar 3606 Ryan St., Lake Charles

Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Dr., Vinton

Sam Pace & The Gilded Gift 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St, Lake Charles Isis 10:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder DJ Mata 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles Athena Campbell Benefit 11:30 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., Lake Charles

Saturday, June 28 Legends in Concert 5 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

46 June 19, 2014

7 p.m. @ The Delta Events Center

Kay Miller & Aaron Horne 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles Chad Fisher Group 7 p.m. @ The Delta Downs Hotel 2717 Delta Downs Dr., Vinton Tom & Mitch 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), Lake Charles Herbie Stutes & The Grand Shin 8 p.m. - Midnight @ Caribbean Cove Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave, Westlake

Firehouse, Warrant, and Dokken 8 p.m. @ The Pavillion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Brad Brinkley, Comfort Zone, and Greg Blanchard 8:30 p.m. @ Cooler’s Ice House 3622 Ryan St., Lake Charles Karaoke Party 9 p.m. @ Micci’s Piano Bar 3606 Ryan St., Lake Charles Howard Sonnier 9 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., Lake Charles DJ Night 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., Lake Charles Wayne Dylan 9 p.m. - Midnight @ The Cigar Club 1700 E Prien Lake Rd, Lake Charles Kross Fyre 9 p.m. @ Yesterdays 5313 Common St., Lake Charles Saturday Night Party Time 9 p.m. @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer and Bar until Midnight Free Cowboys Kool-aid 5329 Common St., Lake Charles

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Special Event Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., Lake Charles The Bonnies, Jesse Tripp, & Nightbreed 9:30 p.m. @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G Lake Charles Fresh Nectar 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St, Lake Charles

11 a.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan St, Lake Charles

7 p.m. - Midnight @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., Lake Charles

Reed Planchard & Driven Dixie 5 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), Lake Charles

Karaoke Night 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Jeff D Comedy Hour

Movie Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., Lake Charles

11 p.m. @ Crystals 112 Broad St., Lake Charles

Monday, June 30

Isis 10:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Karaoke Night 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. @ Caribbean Cove Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave, Westlake

DJ Mata 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Karaoke Night 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G Lake Charles

Thursday, June 29

Tuesday, July 1

Street Side Jazz Band

Karaoke Night

DJ Verrett 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Thursday, July 2 Louisiana Beer Night $2 any Louisiana Beer 6 p.m. - Midnight @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G Lake Charles Mic Night 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort

777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Cooler’s Ice House 3622 Ryan St., Lake Charles Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Talent Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., Lake Charles Live Music 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 719 Ryan St, Lake Charles

Thursday, July 3 Kenny Wayne Shepherd 7 p.m. @ Party by the Pool’s Liquid Society L’Auberge Casino Resort Pool 777 Ave. L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Local Photographer Exhibits in Moscow Local artist and photographer Christopher Frusha is helping to share South Louisiana culture with the world in Moscow. Several of his photographs are part of “The Louisiana Culture Exhibition” at The Multimedia Art

NOLA Performer Vol. 6 • No. 6

Museum-Moscow House of Photography starting May 16.

New Orleans photographer Frank Relle is curating the exhibition. Frusha also had his artwork featured in another exhibition curated by Relle, “Contemporary Antiques” at Octavia Gallery in New Orleans.

Frusha was an art student at McNeese and graduated from SOWELA with

an associate’s degree in graphic art. His photos feature the 2014 Mardi Gras Boat Parade on Lake Charles, a New Orleans street performer, and images of rural South Louisiana life. By seeing photographs that feature the unique and fascinating community of South Louisiana, Russian art lovers will have a chance to develop an appreciation for and under-

standing of American culture.

Over 13,000 people visited the museum on opening day.

Boat Parade June 19, 2014 47

ANNUAL COUSHATTA POW WOW The annual Coushatta Pow Wow was a one-of-akind experience! Loved the vibrancy and color of the traditional rhythmic march by the dancers coming out in full regalia to tribal drums and singing. Vendors offered every variety imaginable of Native American jewelry, memorabilia and delicious food. A fascinating look at the culture and heritage of the Native Americans.

Larry and Ester Shonni

Julia Fontenot, Angina and Torrie Williams, Zacharie Bertrand and Nokomys Williams

Ed and Claudine Hasting

Lyndeon and Rebecca Alec with Sunshine and Christopher Garcia

Ana Dyson and Deswood Koshiway

BUILDING FOR BUCKS The Building for Bucks Sand Sculpture Contest is held every year at TouLouLou’s at L’Auberge.

Ten teams representing local non-profits built sand castles in hopes of winning prize money to benefit their organizations! Congrats to Ainsley’s Angels (#1), LC Pitbull Rescue (#2) and the Children’s Museum (#3) for their winning creations! Lots of fun had by all!

Laura Moreaux, Mindy Schwartzauer and Shonda Manuel

Valerie White, Vidalia Vital and Kelli Knight 48 June 19, 2014

Kade and Kim Martin

Julia Walker, Natalin McGee and Maggy Fruge

Grace Sexton and Sheila Gilley with rescue Halo

Vol. 6 • No. 6

JACK AFTER DARK Jack Daniels Night Club at L’Auberge is a fun place to be when the sun goes down and the night starts to sizzle! The crowds were out after dark for a partying good time with DJ Honey bringing the noise with retro vibes, classic grooves and funky beats! Add great cocktails and tasty food and you can’t miss! Party on!

Virgil Alston and Brittany Holiday

Jessica Young, Erin Kleckley, Zach Abbin, EJ Olsen and Mark Meyers

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Sarah Rowlings and Ashley Collins

Karen Rob and Jamie Roberts

Bailey Whitaked, Whitley Jagnanan, Kayla and Charlete Peterson, Kaylee Harmon

June 19, 2014 49

LAKE ARTHUR REGATTA FESTIVAL Wow, the Lake Arthur Regatta attracted quite the crowd under the majestic oaks downtown AND on the water. Many boats cruised over from Lake Charles and there were lots of familiar faces! Folks enjoyed the carnival, drag boat and sail boat races, bikini contests, good ole taste bud-tempting food and awesome music! This festival was a winner!

Lisa LeLeaux, Kelly Bridges, Missy Statum and Sammy Mott

Holly Hebert, Madi Morgan and Shantell Leger

50 June 19, 2014

Angie Matte with Misty and Tab Finchum

Jessica and Mason Falke

Mack Thibodeaux, Wayne Witman, Lisa Breaux and Darlena Thibodeaux

Vol. 6 • No. 6

Camping Barbecue Fishing Heat Lemonade

Outdoors Parties Picnic Road Trip Relaxation

Summer Sunglasses Swimming Travel Vacation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Players take turns connecting two dots.

When you make a square, put your initials in the box and take another turn. When all dots are connected, the player with the most boxes wins.

Vol. 6 • No. 6

June 19, 2014 51