The Jambalaya News - 12/04/14, Vol. 6, No. 18

2 December 4, 2014

Vol. 6 • No. 18

December 4, 2014 • Volume 6 • Issue 18

715 Kirby St. Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 www.thejambalayanews.com Publisher/Executive Editor Lauren de Albuquerque lauren@thejambalayanews.com

Contributors Lisa Addison Dori Bell George Cline Angie Kay Dilmore Dan Ellender Braylin Jenkins Mike McHugh Jason Machulski Roger Miller Russell Pawlowski Mary Louise Ruehr Karla Tullos Sales sales@thejambalayanews.com Graphics Art/Production Director Burn Rourk Business Office Manager Jeanie Taggart

On cover: Lake Charles Civic Ballet’s Madilyn Warner as The Little Drummer Boy

COVER STORY 20 The LC Civic Ballet Presents The Little Drummer Boy

REGULARS 5 We Are SWLA! 8 The Dang Yankee 9 Tips from Tip 9 Adoption Corner 10 Huntin’ Tales 12 This Functional Family 14 Tales of the Bayou Pickers 15 The Pirate’s Platter

FEATURES 16 Eating Healthy and Loving it at the Verandah 18 Toyland

10 15 16 18 28

THE SPICE OF SWLA 24 Event Guide 26 Family Fun Night at the Movies 28 Red Hot Books 30 Nightlife Guide 34 Lake City Beat!

36 Society Spice 39 Funbolaya

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

The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by 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.

Vol. 6 • No. 18

36 December 4, 2014 3

A Note From Lauren The Enchanted Village have the famous I have so many wonderful childhood memories about Christmas. Unfortunately, I stopped loving Christmas when I started working retail in my early twenties and had to deal with mobs of irate shoppers who were definitely not in the Christmas spirit. At that point, I saw it for the commercialized mess that it had become and I haven’t been able to get beyond that since then.

But when I was a child, Christmas was so special and so important and so meaningful because it was all about giving and receiving and eating special food and being with the people that you love the most. It was pure magic.

One of the highlights of the season was visiting The Enchanted Village at the Jordan Marsh department store in downtown Boston. For a few weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas, an entire floor of the store was transformed into a whimsical winter wonderland, an Olde English Village with dancing mice and carolers and reindeer and I don’t remember what else, but it was fantastic, especially through a child’s eyes. It never changed from year to year; nothing was ever added, unlike nowadays, where people get so bored with

4 December 4, 2014

everything, and are always moving on to The Next Big Thing. So we’d go every year—my mother and my aunt Gloria and my cousins--and we looked forward to seeing the same familiar scenes, anticipating them as we made our way through the village.

“Around the corner is where the mouse will pop out of the chimney!” “The carolers will be under that lamplight!” It never changed, and that was good, and it was comforting. We needed that. We wanted that.

Afterwards, us kids would visit Santa, who was ensconced on a big red velvet throne in another area. I remember talking his ear off when I was three—I guess I wanted a lot of presents that year—and he laughed heartily, as Santas are supposed to do. I was thrilled. He then gave me a root beer-flavored lollipop, and as I walked away with it, a clown came over to me and asked me if he could have a lick. Of course, I didn’t want him near my lollipop but I wanted to be polite, so I told him no, that I had a cold and I didn’t want him to get my germs.

My mother got a kick out of that.

From there, we would all go to the Red Lantern, a coffee shop located in the store, and

Jordan Marsh blueberry muffins. They were huge and gooey and crusted with sugar and totally amazing. People came from miles around for those muffins.

It was all part of the tradition. A perfect ending to a perfect day.

Of course there were crowds of people in Jordan Marsh, but no pushing or shoving. Everyone waited their turn, for Santa, for muffins, for the Village. There was never a bad experience. We never came home shaking our heads and saying we’d never do that again. Instead, it was such a wonderful time that we couldn’t wait for next year, to do the exact same thing all over again.

But that was yesterday. The Jordan Marsh department store is gone. A furniture store out in the suburbs, coincidentally called Jordan’s Furniture, has created its own Enchanted Village and also offers blueberry muffins—supposedly the original recipe—but you know it’s not the same. Their Enchanted Village probably costs

a fortune but doesn’t have the sweet simplicity of the original.

I’m sure those muffins are a lot smaller and nowhere near as tasty, and their Santas aren’t as jolly.

Thanks for the memories, Jordan Marsh. They will remain with me forever.

Lauren de Albuquerque

Vol. 6 • No. 18

New McNeese Bookstore Manager Donna Lundquist has been named bookstore manager at McNeese State University, bringing over 15 years of supervision and leadership experience in the retail industry - that includes FedEx, Target and Bed, Bath & Beyond - to her new position. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from McNeese. Her responsibilities include the overall planning and management of the bookstore and newly created Fan Zone.

Donna Lundquist

Mallard Cove Donates to the CAC Two Promotions at IBERIABANK IBERIABANK, the 127-year-old subsidiary of IBERIABANK Corporation, is pleased to announce the recent naming of Jason Martinez as VP and Business Banking Group Manager for SWLA. Martinez brings over 17 years of financial and commercial lending experience. He has been a Vice President with IBERIABANK for three years. Martinez has a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from McNeese State University. He currently is a team Jason Martinez member for the McNeese Petrochem Club, McNeese Alumni Association, United Way Community Investment and American Heart Association. His office is located at 4440 Nelson Road in Lake Charles. He can be reached at (337) 312-7023 or at jason.martinez@iberiabank.com.

Dawn Primeaux has been named VP and Business Banking Relationship Manager for SWLA. Primeaux most recently served as Branch Manager for IBERIABANK’s McNeese location and continues with over six years of banking experience. Primeaux is a graduate of the McNeese State University and brings with her eight years of accounting experience.

She is actively involved in a number of community organizations, including Big Dawn Primeaux Brothers/Big Sisters of SWLA, McNeese Cowboy Club, Habitat for Humanity, Greater Lake Charles Rotary Club, Cajun Riders Club, Westlake Kiwanis and BAAK. Her office is located at 2911 Ryan Street in Lake Charles. She can be reached by phone at (337) 312-7033 or at dawn.primeaux@iberiabank.com

Calcasieu Law Enforcement Training Academy Holds Graduation The Calcasieu Parish Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy completed its 109th Basic Academy by conducting graduation ceremonies for 40 officers representing 16 agencies in the five-parish area. There were 35 officers who completed 320 hours of instruction in all phases of basic law enforcement and 5 officers who completed a refresher course of 90 hours of instruction. All 40 law enforcement officers passed the Louisiana Peace Officer Standard Testing (POST) exam and are now certified as Basic Peace Officers.

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Mallard Cove’s Men’s Golf Association donated $11,600 to the Children’s Advocacy Center, a division of Family & Youth Counseling Agency, Inc. The money was raised during the 37th Annual Shine Flournoy Golf Tournament held at Mallard Cove this summer to benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center. The CAC is a child-friendly facility designed to coordinate services for children who have been reported as sexually or severely physically abused.

L to R: Kevin Lambright, MGA Board Member; Pete Picou, President of MGA; Buddy Hamic, Chair of Family & Youth Board; Leslie Harless, Marketing Director of First Federal Bank

Brinkman Graduates from Port Manager Program Donald Brinkman recently was certified as a Professional Port Manager by the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA). Completion of the four-year certification program places Brinkman amongst the top ranks of other global maritime professionals. Brinkman has served as the director of engineering and maintenance at the Port of Lake Charles for seven years. He is a McNeese State University graduate, having achieved a master’s degree in engineering management and a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering.

Donald Brinkman December 4, 2014 5

Scholarship for Iowa Students Established Iowa residents Joe and Lucille Foreman donated $15,000 to McNeese State University through the McNeese Foundation to establish the Asa Joseph “Joe” and Lucille B. Foreman Scholarship.

This scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior from Iowa High School.

Judith Washington is 2015-2016 President of SPALS Judith Washington was elected and installed at the 22nd annual SPALS Conference held October 2-4 in Lafayette. SPALS is Louisiana’s largest professional organization for school-based Speech Pathologists and Audiologists. Washington worked as a Speech Pathologist for Calcasieu Parish Schools for 33 years and retired in 2010.

Currently, she serves as Executive Director of the Black Heritage Festival Louisiana.

Judith Washington

SW Beverage Supports SWLA Development SW Beverage’s recent $10,000 donation is part of its 5-year, $50,00 commitment to support the SWLA Alliance Foundation’s SWLA on the Move campaign. The current plan of work under the campaign is to address the critical issues facing our region: workforce development, business recruitment, business retention and expansion, regional marketing, and building a single voice for a true regional partnership.

Marianne White, McNeese planned giving coordinator with Lucille and Joe Foreman McNEESE PHOTO

L to R: Avon Knowlton, Executive VP of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance; Ben Marriner, President of Southwest Beverage; and George Swift, Alliance President and CEO.

6 December 4, 2014

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Farmers Rice Donates to ‘A Caring Christmas’ The Sulphur Rotary Club contacted Farmers Rice Milling Company who donated 1,000 pounds of rice to Care Help of Sulphur’s, “A Caring Christmas.” If you are interested in donating to this worthy program, call 528-2273 to see what items are needed or send a monetary donation to Care Help of Sulphur, 200 N. Huntington St. Sulphur, LA 70663. Write “Christmas” in the memo area of your check. Visit their website at care-help.org or friend them on Facebook.

Nissan of LC Donates to Habitat

Heidi Farnum, Sulphur Rotary Club President and Famers Rice Milling Company employees

John Stelly, owner of Nissan of Lake Charles, presented the keys to a new Nissan Titan to Lenn Knapp, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity in Lake Charles on November 12. The new truck was funded by a grant program through Habitat for Humanity International made possible by NISSAN, John Stelly and Nissan of Lake Charles. Nissan began donating vehicles to Habitat for Humanity affiliates on the Gulf Coast after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Kim Lawson, Finance Director at the Calcasieu affiliate applied for and was awarded the grant. The truck timely replaced another one that had become disabled and will be used in the construction phase of Habitat’s mission.

CPSO Implements Annual Robbery Prevention Mobilization At Prien Lake Mall for the Holidays The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff ’s Office has implemented the Annual Robbery Prevention Mobilization (RPM) in an effort to deter crime and assist shoppers in the parking lot at the Prien Lake Mall during the holiday season, which will continue through December 26, seven days a week from noon until one hour past mall closing.

The deputies will be on marked ATV’s and patrol cars in the parking lot, as well as manning the CPSO Mobile Command Center located in the front parking lot of the mall on Prien Lake Road. Deputies, who will be wearing orange Sheriff ’s Office traffic vests during the evening hours, will be available to assist shoppers with such things as helping them find their car, jump starting their car if the battery is dead, changing a flat, assisting employees and shoppers by walking them to their car after dark, etc.

CPSO deputies are working this special detail to provide assistance to the public during the busy holiday season.

They are not hired by the mall or nor will they be doing security for the mall.

However, the presence of law enforcement on the premises is expected to deter crime in the parking lot. This is the eleventh year the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff ’s Office has provided this service to the shoppers in the parking lot at the mall.

Vol. 6 • No. 18

December 4, 2014 7

A Real Flog and Pony Show For most of my life, people have viewed me as being a bit eccentric. I don’t see myself that way; I don’t even have a tattoo, for Pete’s sake. Still, I feel compelled to occasionally to prove to myself that I’m really an Average Joe. That’s what drives me to attend the Renaissance Festival every year. When I see a group of people there who make Kiss look like a group of opera tenors, I feel about as peculiar as meat loaf.

For this year’s pilgrimage, I decided to bring along my friend Doug, who moonlights as an investigator for that world-renowned Cajun think tank, Boudreaux and Thibodeaux Research Associates, LLC. He’s got a nose for all things absurd, and on this trip he did not disappoint.

On the first night at the festival campground, Doug wasted no time in scouting out the Flogging Camp. Here is where, should you be so

inclined, you can find any number of leather-clad ladies armed with whips, who will gladly perform sadistic acts on you in full public view.

Hearing this, I figured that the festival probably pays these women so that, once inside the gates, their clientele would consume lots of mead at inflated prices in order to relieve the pain.

Doug reported that he found a surprisingly long line of patrons anxious for services that the Flogging Camp had to offer. In an interview, one willing victim confided to Doug that he quite enjoys a good flogging in the evening because it helps him sleep at night. “Gets my endorphins going,” he said. And here the rest of us believe in herbal supplements as the trick to beating insomnia.

Inside the festival, Doug was the first to spot the Horse Woman. I’d have probably not noticed her myself,

she blending in so well with the rest of the human zoo.

But as I said, Doug has an eye for such things. Here was an attractive woman, wearing a black body suit complete with horse’s tail, hitched with a bit and bridle a to a cart, prancing about the grounds with her man in tow. I could sense the thoughts of the other men who viewed this spectacle, waiting outside the shops while their wives gaily squandered their retirement accounts—“If only I could be so lucky. These pirate boots are hell on my bunions, and what’s more, hay I can afford.”

Don’t get me wrong; I have nothing against folks who like once a year go to someplace where they can unapologetically indulge in their fetish of preference. After all, our forefathers fought so that we Americans could have the right to be flogged whenever and by whom we

wish, instead of it being done by some agent of the Crown who may not even be in leather, and at times that might be inconvenient.

I must say that this year’s trip to RenFest did the trick for me. Again, I feel like just an average person. I can sit back in my average lounge chair, pop open an average beer (or a Lone Star if I’m feeling a bit on the freakish side), turn on my average TV, and get a dose of the reality that the networks are feeding us 24/7.

Just a few minutes watching The Real Housewives of Wherever and I think—if that’s reality, then the whole world’s a Renaissance Festival.

Mike McHugh’s column has appeared in the Jambalaya News for over five years. If you can’t get enough of The Dang Yankee, you can read more on Mike’s website, thedangyankee.com.

Cassie is a 16-week old Black Mouth Cur mix. She currently weighs 15 pounds and will likely stay fairly small. Sweet and loving, Cassie gets along well with people, other dogs, and children. She is crate trained and is currently working on house training.

What a wonderful “stocking stuffer” she would be! For her safety, Cassie will require a fenced yard. For more information, call or email: 337-478-7294; lapaw@bellsouth. net. Vet check and home visit required prior to all adoptions.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Holiday pets are forever pets, too! Don’t gift a pet on a whim, please. For more information, call or email: (337) 478-7294, lapaw@ bellsouth.net. Vet check and home visit required prior to all adoptions.

8 December 4, 2014

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Beware of Scams A friend almost became the victim of a scam recently. She was contacted with an offer to have a very attractively priced television service installed in her home. We all know that cable, satellite and other television delivery service is never reasonable, and as always, fees and taxes are later attached.

Therefore, we are continuously on the look out for a better deal for our home viewing.

Our friend made an appointment to learn about the special deal. When the salesman arrived, she was informed that the advertised service was not available in her area as of yet, but he did have other options for her, obviously at greater cost. I am sure that you all have realized that part of the story was coming.

None of this will come as a surprise to any of my regular readers but it will serve to illustrate several hard and fast principles we need to always remember.

A) If a deal seems too good to be true, watch your wallet--somebody is looking to get in it. B) There is no free lunch. it is paid for by somebody, somewhere Vol. 6 • No. 18

and it usually will end up being you.

C) Sales personnel are there to make themselves money.

You are the device they use to make it. This is the time of year when the evildoers seem to multiply and use both old and new methods to take advantage of good people.

Doing business with reputable firms and people you trust and can get recommendations from is almost always going to lead to customer satisfaction and the best deals in the long run. New businesses can include great things, but there are those that exist purely for bait and switch deals. My friend said the “salesman�

tried to trick her into installing a satellite system that had never even been mentioned in their original solicitation.

There are several new viewing options opening up such as Apple TV that may bring down the cost of watching your own television, but make sure you get the whole story on the front end before you wind up owning and owing a whole lot more than you originally bargained for.

Supermarket Roundup As we start the holiday season, we will price some adult beverages that are popular for our festive affairs.

This time of the year, many bottlers have gift sets and/or promotional items included with their products, so you can find some nice extras included. The prices reported in this issue were obtained on Tuesday, November 25, 2014 and reflect the posted

price on the shelf where the product was placed for sale.

The stores we survey were: Albertsons-Country Club Road, Market Basket-Nelson Road, Kroger-McNeese Street and Walmart-Nelson Road.

Crown Royal Whiskey, 750 ml bottle: Albertsons $24.99, Market Basket $28.99, Kroger $30.49, Walmart $28.41.

Bacardi Rum, 750 ml bottle: Albertsons $14.99, Market Basket $14.49, Kroger $14.99, Walmart $13.47.

E & J Brandy, VS, 750 ml bottle: Albertsons $9.99, Market Basket $9.89, Kroger $9.49, Walmart $9.97.

Korbel Champagne, Extra Dry, 750 ml bottle: Albertsons $11.99, Market Basket $12.29, Kroger $11.99, Walmart $10.97.

December 4, 2014 9

This hunting tale actually begins before the Civil War with early Louisiana and Johnson Bayou-area settlers August and Sophie Pavell. Seems Pavell was a cotton planter, ginner, general store owner and postmaster in Shellbank, Louisiana, now Sabine Island. Our saga then moves east across the Sabine River to Johnson Bayou where schooner captain Albert Dobbertine, a fellow German immigrant, met and married Pavell’s and Sophie’s daughter Anna. The rest is 150 years of outdoor history passed on from father to son. Avid hunters and anglers all, the tradition now rests with the Donnie Rogers family, who are Dobbertine descendants.

I hunted the finger end of

Photo: Michael Guidry Photographie 10 December 4, 2014

Tradition

Hamilton Lake behind the Gray Estate caretaker’s house in the 1970s and `80s. Hunting the Johnson Bayou area was then and is now a hunter’s treat. You take Hwy. 27 south off of Interstate 10. Just after leaving Sulphur and before the Intercoastal Canal, you hit the marsh. For the next 40 minutes, you travel through the marsh and Sabine National Wildlife Reserve. You’ll run smack dab into the Gulf of Mexico unless you take a right on Hwy. 82 that follows west along the Gulf. On your left, you will note the granite barrier rocks about 100 or so yards out in the Gulf. They protect the beach. Oddly enough they are a good place to hunt diving ducks on cold, calm days at low

tide late in the waterfowl season.

Only the brave and the sometimes foolish dare risk this, but it’s a kick.

As you move off the Gulf you follow the chenier to Johnson Bayou High School and the community there. Before you hunt, be damn sure you have permission to enter anyone’s property.

Landowners in Cameron Parish are zealous about keeping trespassers off their property. I once saw Bud Trahan, local caretaker for the Gray Estate, on horseback behind my blind on the chenier.

He was leading two pleading-formercy trespassers in handcuffs on a rope. Enough said.

I was hunting with Pavell and Dobbertine descendants Aaron and Airel Shawa. Their Dad,

Airel Shawa, Roger Miller, Dennis Dunnehoo, and Aaron Rogers

Donnie Rogers and his wife Rayna invited me to share their love of water fowling. Along on this hunt, having just moved back from Dallas, was Donnie’s long-time hunting companion and cousin Dennis Dunnehoo.

We even had photographer Mike Guidry with us.

Dennis and I waited at the launch in the pre-dawn darkness for Airel to return, as he had to put out the decoys and place Aaron and Mike in the blind. With the 35hp Go-Gator outboard Airel would be back well before shooting time. So my “podna” Dennis and I swapped tales about the pre-hurricane Rita “Spoonbill” camp of his youth there and mine on Hamilton Lake. And we waited. And waited. The opening day barrage started. Still no sign of Airel.

More stories and laughter on our part. No Airel.

He finally arrived wearing that beleaguered look I’d worn many times when s*%+ happens. The motor that had run perfectly the day before began starting and dying, starting and dying. With a shrug, we climbed aboard and were off, sort of. We stopped and started our way to the blind, all the while hearing the opening day’s salvo when stopped. Been there. Done that. As Johnson Bayou’s Rayme Boudreaux taught me, I did the Gallic Cajun shrug and mumbled “C’est la vie.”

Seconds after we were finally set to hunt, a flock of teal set their wings and tried to feet down splash in. With four guns going off it was hard to tell who Vol. 6 • No. 18

hit what, but five teal stayed with us. Then, some gadwalls sailed by too close and two of them hit the water. It was Dennis’ first hunt in 25 years and he was having more fun than any of us. It’s nice to share a blind with someone who was back in his youth and having the time of his life again. This old coot felt the same way.

By now it was 7:30 a.m. and the early flight had dissipated.

Local mottled ducks did their usual tease and fade despite some excellent calling from Donnie’s college student sons.

Just when we’d least expect it, teal would zip into and almost out of the decoys before more than one or two could be dropped. Even spoonbills were blind wary on opening day but we managed to eke out four of them along with two more gadwalls.

Snow geese began to flirt with us but as usual, they followed the marsh’s edge and avoided the open water, even with me

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Photo: Michael Guidry Photographie

L to R: Airel Shawa, Donnie Rogers, Aaron Shawa

calling. Adding insult to injury, most flocks were low enough to shoot. What were missing were the high birds coming from Sabine Reserve or the fields to our north. Either it hadn’t been cold enough yet to drive them down, or we were seeing the dire result of sugar cane replacing rice as SWLA’s major crop. Probably both, but with the emphasis being on the demise of rice farming. A shrug and a “C’est la vie” accompanied by a sadness passed through me.

I poured a cup of coffee, relit my pipe, then glanced over to Aaron and Airel and my lament passed. Those two young men will be as old as and Dennis and I one day. With them will be their sons or daughters or guests and they will share the love of water fowling that shone in their eyes that day. By then their afield tradition will be nearer 200 years old, and passed on yet again. And for that one day in November of 2014, it was shared with me. Thanks, guys.

December 4, 2014 11

Life Lessons It’s easy to tell your kids that they should help others and that volunteering is a great thing. But you really need to take the concept a step further and actually put it into motion for them to fully understand and appreciate that it’s far better to give than it is to receive.

On a recent Saturday morning, we joined with other volunteers through Phillips 66 and the Calcasieu Council on Aging to deliver Thanksgiving food bags to the needy and elderly in our community.

There were mostly adults and some teenagers in the group, but there were a few children, including my 9-year-old son and 6-yearold daughter.

I was proud of my kids for helping to load the car up with bags for the eight households on our list. As a Little League baseball player, my son was happy to run into members of the Barbe Baseball team who were volunteering along with their coach, Glen Cecchini.

12 December 4, 2014

As we pulled up to the first house, my son jumped out of the car and grabbed a bag while my daughter walked in front of me to knock on the door. “Good morning!” she said to the woman who answered. The woman smiled and said, “It surely is a good morning because of your sweet little face greeting me.” She and her husband were grateful for the food and the company, but we had to soon part ways so we could get to our next assignment.

The second and third households were similar to the first one; they were friendly, appreciative, and we were soon back on the road.

But the fourth person on our list, an 85-year-old woman, stopped us in our tracks. When she opened her door and realized we had brought food, conversation, and smiles, she began sobbing. While wiping away her tears, she said, “I don’t have any living relatives and my days are so long some-

times. I would love if you and your kids could stay awhile. Can you please come back and see me?” I told her that we would surely try and that I wished we could stay, but we still had people on our list that needed to receive their food and she understood. Without me prompting them, both of my kids gave her hugs and wished her a Happy Thanksgiving.

As we got in our car, they were both very quiet and then my son said, “Mom, she’s standing at the door and she’s still crying. That’s so sad.” I agreed that it was, but told him that he and his sister had just made an impact on her life and had given her a few moments of happiness as well as providing her with enough food for a few nice meals.

We continued on our mission. We met an elegant, 87-year-old woman in good health with beautiful snow white hair wearing a flowing bright red housecoat.

She was proud to still be

self-sufficient but said that she does get lonely at times because she has outlived so many of her family members and friends. After the kids carried the food into her home, she wanted to know if we could spend a few hours with her. Of course we couldn’t, but she understood and we wished her well.

As we drove off, my son said, “Mom, she was so nice. I wish she had a whole bunch of grandchildren that she could spend time with.

It’s sad that she doesn’t have anybody.”

My daughter said, “It makes me cry that she is so lonely.”

Yes, this volunteering gig sure was making an impact on my children and it’s exactly what I wanted to happen. Life isn’t about just growing as a human being.

It’s also about making a difference in the world.

The last person on our list left the three of us saddened and later, we prayed for her. Not only was she dealing with disabilities but Vol. 6 • No. 18

she lived in a dilapidated home and had lost her vehicle because a relative had wrecked it while fleeing the police after committing a crime.

Both of my kids were touched by their experience and they are looking forward to finding other ways to volunteer throughout the coming year. “Mom, I thought it was going to be fun but it was different than fun,” said my son. “It made me think about how sad it is that some people don’t have food or a nice house. Some of them don’t have anybody in their life either and that is very sad. I’m happy that we could make them feel a little bit better today.”

My daughter added, “I feel very good about myself that we helped people. Even though one lady kept cry-

Vol. 6 • No. 18

ing it was because she was happy and sad. And a lot of other people smiled. I think we made them so happy!”

My children glimpsed a world different than theirs and had seen what true loneliness looks like. These were definitely some life lessons. I hope in the years to come, they also learn that “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.” (Luke 12:48) Lisa Addison wrote her first short story when she was 7 years old and hasn’t stopped writing since. She has two young children, enjoys trying new recipes, and loves going on adventures with her kids. She blogs at: http://swlamama.wordpress.com.

December 4, 2014 13

By Jason Machulski

I’ve been picking since 2002 and still learn amazing things every day. Many of you may wonder what a picker does and how they do it. Here is a little insight into the life of a picker.

Not only do we go to garage sales and estate sales and pick up items on the side of the road, a whole lot more goes on behind the scenes. As I walk up to a garage sale, I scan it. This is what I would call “picker vision.” I would also call it a sixth sense.

To explain it, close your eyes and picture a random table full of items. Then scan it with “picker vision.” Picture the table of items blurred with only the items that catch your eye standing out clearly. That is picker vision.

After I have scanned and my items are in my scope, I dig p a little further for covered up,

14 December 4, 2014

hidden items. When I’m done picking, I bring them to the sellers and we do what I’m sure you have heard of: the package deal. Usually, the sellers give a good little discount. Then it’s off to the next sale. A picker has all the sales mapped out and can hit quite a few in a short time.

Now for the real picking.

Usually, a picker gains a reputation and is called to houses, barns, and land to more or less do a bit of modern archeology. This is a private venture where you can find all kinds of treasures including historical and collector’s items as well objects for your own personal collection. Yes, a picker usually is quite a collector.

There is a fine line between a collector and a picker. A picker is always in search of things for their own collection but also for museums, for other collectors, and to resell, as we do have to finance our ventures.

The number one question that I am always asked is what is your most valuable pick? So far, that has been a Meiji Dynasty solid sterling silver bowl, weighing in at 8.9 pounds, circa 1868-1912. It has hand-hammered dragons around the sides and a smooth silver bowl. When it was made,

it was actually four sheets of sterling silver hammered into a bowl shape and then connected to create one solid piece. It is truly an amazing item and the time and craftsmanship is one of a kind.

This bowl is valued between $8,000 and $20,000. Why such a large price difference? It all boils down to who made it and who owned it. At this point, the bowl is still being researched.

And don’t think you’re going to run out this weekend and find a priceless treasure. It doesn’t happen that often. This is a rare find. I’m not saying that I have not found other great ones, but this is my best to date.

There’s a basic kit that I bring when I’m picking, and I have a more elaborate kit for home use and appraisals. The basics include a flashlight, jeweler’s loupe, magnet, knife and gloves.

As a picker, I keep in mind

that any local history that I discover ends up in the local museums. It’s a little way that I feel I can give back as well as instilling a little knowledge into my kids or someone else’s life.

History is important and needs to be conserved, protected and passed down.

I love what I do and I love to learn a little about every piece I find. So, the next time you see someone picking, think about how many lives may be changed and stories may be told because of something he or she has discovered.

Jason Machulski grew up with an appreciation for antiques and vintage artifacts.

He has made a profession out of “picking” through craft shows, flea markets, trade fairs and garage sales for relics with historical value. Contact Jason on his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/Bayou-Pickers/160113244006075.

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Tonya Meche Wants Your Recipes!

Venison Steaks in Blackberry Sauce ‘Tis the season when most of SWLA is out hunting ducks, geese or deer, also known as venison. The word venison originated in the 13th century from the Latin word venatio, which means hunting.

The English version likely came from the French word, also spelled venison, which meant the flesh of a hunted animal used for food. Not until the 18th century did the word venison became mostly associated with deer meat.

One complaint I hear from many of my wife’s friends is that venison has too strong of a game taste. Surprise yourself next time your wife, child or husband brings home supper after a hard day’s hunt and spend some time prepping your meat.

To ensure the best, most tender deer steaks or back strap --- the cuts similar to filets --- you should age them yourself.

Whole back strap, cleaned and free of hair, should be kept in the lower portion of your refrigerator. Cover loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the meat from drying out. Store for three to five days. Aging the meat in this way makes it more tender. Before you cook your venison, remove any fat or fascia.

Game meat is naturally low in fat, so it is important to trim the meat very cleanly to have the most flavorful steaks.

You’ve all enjoyed “Tonya Meche’s Kitchen” in every issue as she brings us quick and tasty recipes that have been passed down in her family. Now, Tonya is asking for YOUR recipes! Just email them to lauren@thejambalayanews.com. She’ll try them out in her kitchen, and if she likes them, they’ll appear in The JAM! So pull out those cookbooks and send some good cookin’ ideas our way!

Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 thick venison steaks 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1 cup beef stock 4 tablespoons red currant jelly 2 tablespoons of Cajun Red Head Wild Game Seasoning 2 garlic cloves 3/4 cup blackberries

Directions Take each venison steak and rub generously with Cajun Red Head Wild Game seasoning. Heat the oil in a frying skillet and cook the venison for 5 minutes. Turn and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Lift the meat from the pan and leave to rest. Add the vinegar to the skillet .then add in the stock, red currant jelly and garlic. Stir over high heat to blend. Add the blackberries and continue cooking until they become soft. Serve with the venison, mashed potatoes and vegetables of your choice.

Cooking time: 20 minutes. Makes 4 servings. Enjoy!

Vol. 6 • No. 18

December 4, 2014 15

By Lauren de Albuquerque Tasty, healthy food is something the lucky residents of The Verandah Retirement Community and Assisted Living in Lake Charles look forward to every day.

And the man behind the delicious fare is their executive chef, Michael Bruney.

Only 27, Bruney, a Lake Charles native, spent 10 years at the Harlequin Restaurant honing his craft before coming to the Verandah on the recommendation of a friend who held the lead position in the kitchen. As luck would have it, his friend soon found another job, and Bruney was able to step into the chef ’s role.

It’s obvious that Bruney had to make some changes to his cooking style. The rich creams and sauces of the Harlequin won’t do in a community of seniors. But Bruney sees it as an opportunity as opposed to a challenge.

ity’: onions, bell peppers and celery for our soups, stews and sauces. They add deep, rich flavors we can build on.”

Bruney says making their own stock is the way to go.

“Store-bought stocks and broths are usually packed with sodium and other additives. When we make our own, we control the contents. And homemade stocks have tons more flavor than store brands. They take minimal effort to prepare and last for months!”

According to Bruney, most of the sodium Americans ingest does not come from saltshakers, as we would imagine, but instead, from both processed and canned food. “To combat this, we simply use the highest quality and freshest ingredients possible and make everything from scratch.”

One of the easiest ways to combat blandness in low-sodium food is by using ingredients with strong flavors, such as wine, vinegar, garlic, fresh herbs, etc. “And studies show that items such as vinegar and garlic have their own health benefits,” Bruney explains. “For example, pp cider vinegar g has been apple

shown to lower blood sugar levels, which is critical in our diabetic residents.”

Keep it Heart-Healthy Heart health is a major concern for all adults, especially seniors. “But not all fats are bad for you,” Bruney points out.

“Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat, in moderation, can raise good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol, which helps protect against heart disease.”

There are various ways the Verandah kitchen helps limits “bad” fats while retaining flavor.

“A healthy alternative to cooking with butter or lard is flavored olive oils,” Bruney says. “Liz Fuselier, owner of Sassy Oil and Vinegar, provides us with different infused olive oils that helps build flavor in our dishes without adding trans or saturated fats.”

Heavy creams must also be replaced. “One way we add creaminess to soups without adding the fat is by adding potatoes or rice instead of heavy cream or half and half,” Bruney says. “Once cooked and pureed, the soup or bisque will have a wonderful creaminess without all of the unwanted fat.”

Control the Salt “There are a lot of things that are done differently here, compared to a normal restaurant,” he explains. “First of all, we have to control the salt content of our food since so many of our residents have high blood pressure. But cooking with low or no salt can leave food bland and tasteless.”

There are several ways to remedy the situation.

“Use of aromatics is key,” Bruney continues. “In this part of the world, we use the ‘Cajun Trin16 December 4, 2014

Cream of asparagus soup Baby spinach & arugula salad Hummus-crusted chicken breast Smoked roast potatoes Steamed broccoli

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Protein selection is very important in a heart-healthy diet.

Bruney points out that salmon, a “frequent flier” on their menu, is high in flavor and also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce heart disease. Less flavorful options, such as boneless, skinless chicken breasts, are enhanced with various flavor additives such as marinades and sauces.

“A popular dish we make is a hummuscrusted chicken breast,” Bruney says. “It’s covered with roasted red pepper hummus which we roast in the oven. Healthy, delicious and a little something different!”

Other Dietary Restrictions Some residents have other dietary restrictions, such as diabetes. “Extra fat in the diet can make your body more resistant to the action of insulin, so we try to limit the fat we serve each resident using the various techniques we’ve already discussed,” Bruney explains. “The most difficult dilemma I find as a chef cooking for diabetics is dessert.

Seniors tend to retain their ability to distinguish sweet tastes the longest, which can cause them to over-indulge in sugary foods.

They can also be very critical of sugar-free foods or desserts made with sugar substitutes. To resolve this, we always offer our residents fresh fruit options and a couple of

Vol. 6 • No. 18

sugar-free h options such as ice cream and Jello.”

Some residents are glutensensitive.

“And one woman has celiac disease, which Glazed salmon means that asparagus if she ingestss Steamed Saffron rice gluten, it can seriously impact her health. To combat this, we use flour substitutes such as rice flour, corn flour, and flaxseed meal whenever we can to give these residents more options.”

Black pepper can cause digestive issues and discomfort in seniors, so Bruney says they try to use red pepper, in moderation, whenever possible.

The Joy of Cooking It’s obvious that Bruney loves what he does, and he’s constantly striving to do more and learn more. “You know, I’m not classically trained,” he points out. “I went to McNeese for engineering. But I was get-

t ting bored, so I decided t take a year off in my to s senior year. I never went b back.”

Instead, he found h calling in the food his s service industry, and has n never looked back. But h pushes himself harder he b because he did not att tend culinary school. “ “I’m always watching c cooking videos. As soon a I get home, I turn on as t Food Network. My the g girlfriend thinks I’m obsessed. I guess I am!” he laughs.

Bruney says he spends a lot of his time on menu selection, which means talking to the residents to find out what they like— and don’t like. “We have monthly meetings where residents can voice their opinions with the food program and tell us what they would like to see on the upcoming menus.

They’re brutally honest with me. If they don’t like something, they’ll tell you!”

He especially has to stay on his toes since we are in Southwest Louisiana, and there are a lot of good cooks sitting at his tables.

“Let’s face it!” he laughs. “I’m cooking for everyone’s Grandma!”

December 4, 2014 17

By Dori Bell Growing up in the late ‘80s/ early ‘90s afforded my sister and I the opportunity to experience some of the greatest toys. We had a glowworm, a Teddy Ruxpin, an awesome elephant showerhead (the water would come out of his trunk; it was crazy!) and tons of my Little Pony stuff. She had a

18 December 4, 2014

Barbie Dreamhouse, and I had the Ninja Turtle Pizza Van. Some of the best memories involved Raphael riding a pony over to the Dreamhouse to eat Play-Doh pizza. Delicious.

We would build blanket forts, party in our princess pajamas, and create imaginary worlds where all of our toys coexisted.

It got really fun once our brother came along because we then had the addition of boy toys. He had stuff like G.I. Joes and NERF guns. He also had that Crossfire game. If you don’t remember, it involved these little metal balls that would be shot pinball-style

across a playing board. Once, my cousin actually shot one into my brother’s mouth! It was very impressive and very scary all at the same time.

Then one day, the most magical thing happened: Our parents bought us a Nintendo.

Life was forever changed as we were introduced to a mustached plumber named Mario.

Since this was somewhere around 1989 or so, we were not even remotely familiar with computers. It was the most amazing thing we’d ever seen.

Not only did we meet Mario, but we were also introduced to that horrible dog that was in the hunting game. It would creep up out of the grass and do this weird laughing, mocking thing.

Soon after, other members of our family invested in the ubiquitous gaming system.

Our cousin had that rad track and field floor pad. We’d move our little legs as fast as they could possibly go to try and win. When long jump time came, our dads would pick us up under our arms and dangle us in the air to help extend our air time. It rarely worked, but it was fun. I guess this was the prequel to all of the dancing games’ mats.

Now, it must be said that Vol. 6 • No. 18

even though we loved the Nintendo, we were only allowed limited playing time.

Like most other kids our age, we spent most of our time outside. If we were inside, we were probably playing hide and seek or blind man’s bluff; I spent a good deal of my childhood hiding out or walking around with my eyes closed.

We always had a great time.

It could be just my sister and I, or both of us and our cousins, but whatever the case, we almost always had fun.

Some of the best times involved the simplest of toys.

I especially liked when our mom would sit and play with us; we’d make up these crazy worlds with different scenarios, and we were encouraged to play. I’m not a parent, but I was a kid once, and I know that the toys that made the biggest impression, in the long run, were the toys that I chose to build relationships with.

Raphael was my favorite Ninja Turtle because he was sarcastic. I appreciated his weapon of choice, and, at the time, I really liked the color red. I also really liked certain Care Bears because of what they represented. I never formed an emotional attachment to the Nintendo. I was such a tomboy, and certain toys let me entertain that notion.

As great as Nintendo was, we also fought over it, a lot.

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Then, as the way technology often goes, we had to upgrade. We got the Game Boy sometime around junior high school and Nintendo 64 upon entering high school, which, I’m not ashamed to say, I still really enjoy playing.

By the time we were all old enough to do different things, mom and dad were finally able to stop buying game systems.

But I suppose parents today don’t have it any better. In fact, and maybe this is my age talking, it seems like gaming systems are evolving at breakneck speed. And with the addition of tablets and laptops and such, traditional toys have so much to compete with. No matter what anyone says, it does take a certain level of skill and intelligence to navigate your way through a video game, so I do think they can be beneficial, although they often don’t require a lot of creativity.

So, don’t be too hard on yourself this Christmas. Don’t kill yourself to get that one toy (I’m looking at you, Frozen merchandise) that your kid, at this time next year, might not even remember wanting.

Maybe this year, you could try and get them something that requires them to use their imagination. And if they do remember, and they get really upset, just tell them Santa dropped the ball.

December 4, 2014 19

Photos by Romero & Romero Photography

By Angie Kay Dilmore The dancers at the Lake Charles Civic Ballet are busy rehearsing for their upcoming holiday performance on December 11, 12, and 13, at the Rosa Hart Theatre. This year, the ballet company transports the audience back to Bethlehem and retells the timeless story of Christ’s birth through their presentation of the Little Drummer Boy. “The holidays often are such a hustle and bustle,” says Lady Holly Hathaway Kaough, Artistic Director of the Lake Charles Civic Ballet (LCCB). “I hope that we, as a group, help our audiences to smile and have a little happiness, hope, and encouragement.”

A Classic Christmas Story In this LCCB original, which meshes the biblical story of Christ’s birth and the fictional story told in the iconic Christmas song “The Little Drummer Boy,” the dancers tell the nativity story through the eyes of the poor boy who

Abigail Miligan (red), Clara Lang (green), Heather Vogel (blue)

20 December 4, 2014

has no gift for the babe, but can play his drum. All the characters are onstage – Mary and Joseph, the innkeeper, shepherds, angels, the three kings--even a live donkey!

But the story reaches deeper in its message. The theme of the production reminds the audience members that everyone has a gift to share. “Each of us, children and adults, can benefit from hearing this story because it’s what we all search for every day of our lives,” Lady Holly says.

When Joseph and a very pregnant Mary arrive in the village of Bethlehem, they discover throngs of people--and no place to stay.

The innkeeper has no vacancy and tries to send the couple away. But the Little Drummer Boy reminds the innkeeper that he has a clean, dry, warm stable in the back. After the innkeeper reluctantly agrees, Mary and Joseph settle in with the lambs, and soon, Jesus is born.

The Little Drummer Boy is thrilled by this event and proceeds to tell everyone who will listen. He tells the shepherds, who don’t believe him, until a chorus of angels confirms the lad’s story. But the Little Drummer Boy becomes dismayed. Everyone has a gift for Jesus but him. The innkeeper lent his stable. The villagers bring presents. A trio of kings bear extravagant gifts. Even the poor shepherds bring their adoration. Little Drummer Boy wants to give a gift, too. But he feels that he has nothing of worth to give. But an Angel of Comfort comes to him and assures him; he indeed has a gift. A very important gift.

The take-home message is that everyone has a gift.

The LCCB does not often perform The Little Drummer Boy, so you won’t want

Madilyn Warner as the Little Drummer Boy

to miss it. The last performance was in 2008.

The Cast The starring roles of the Little Drummer Boy are dually portrayed by Madilyn Warner and Caroline Kaough. Both girls have been dancing with the LCCB since the age of three. These young girls, age nine and eight respectively, have been working diligently to master not only the dancing but the challenge of acting onstage and staying in character for the entire performance. They take the role very seriously and have been reviewing video footage and attending extra rehearsal sessions with Lady Holly to perfect their performance.

Part of their challenge is mastering all the emotions portrayed in the role of the Little Drummer Boy -- despair, awe, and elation. They realize the significance of their role. “The Little Drummer Boy’s gift is playing his drum for baby Jesus,” Madilyn said. “And no one else does that. It’s unique and special because the gift comes from his heart.”

Father Jack Myers, Rector at Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, reprises his 2008 LCCB role as the grumpy innkeeper. “When they ask me to play some crotchety old geezer, that’s what I do!” he said. The village children exasperate the innkeeper, especially the little boy who incessantly bangs Vol. 6 • No. 18

on a drum and disturbs his guests. In reality, Fr. Jack loves working with the children! He has a special rapport with the young dancers and they look up to him. Fr. Jack enjoys working with the dancers and marvels at their intensity from backstage. He sees the poise and confidence of the dancers and says his own posture improves when he is around them.

Since 2008, Fr. Jack has graced the stage in several LCCB The Very Rev. John productions.

“Jack” Myers as the The Inn Keeper and Caroline Kaough as the Three Little Drummer Boy Kings make their entrance onstage in a grand procession and bear Gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh. The “Gifts” are actually principal dancers posing motionlessly on litters carried onstage by porters. When each Gift is presented to the Christ Child, the dancer “comes alive” and performs her own unique dance for the baby Jesus. Each dance is technically challenging in its own way.

Grace Helms plays the role of Gold.

Her dance is lively and energetic. Jaina Ange shines as Frankincense. Her dance incorporates jingling silver bells that twirl from her wrists as she spins.

Gabrielle Saucier performs as the Gift of Myrrh, an adagio piece requiring immense control and flexibility. She says it’s an honor to play the role of a Gift.

“When I was a young dancer, I admired the Gifts and hoped I could perform as one eventually, “ she says. “It’s a big deal and we’re all really excited.” The Gifts’ costumes are exquisitely beautiful. “They make us feel very pretty,” Gabby adds.

Pre-Show Entertainment The show opens with a rousing performance of tap dancing glow-in-thedark toy soldiers. Next up is Variations of Joy, in which principal dancers Hannah Arabie, Graceanne LaCombe and Claudia Mayo dance to a spectacular medley of Christmas favorites, from “Silent Night” to “Deck the Halls” and more. Graceanne describes their routine as a fun, fast-paced, mashup of holiday classics.

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Lady Holly at the Helm Lady Holly shared the original role of the Little Drummer Boy in the company’s premier performance of the show in 1982 when she was eight years old. Coincidentally, her daughter Caroline, also eight, is playing that same role this year, along with Madelyn Warner.

The show was written and choreographed by Lady Holly’s mother, Lady Leah Lafargue, who chartered the LCCB in 1968. Lady Holly has fond memories of playing the role of the Little Drummer Boy. “I remember a lot of work going into the preparation,” she says. “It was the first time a lot had been asked of me in a performance. Up to that point, I had been in short segments of different pieces, but this was the first time I was going to be onstage start to finish. There’s a stamina involved; keeping with the character for that length of time was a challenge. But it was also a lot of fun.”

Lady Holly is passionate about the message in this timeless tale. “We all struggle to find our purpose and meaning on this earth; how we can be a good influence and a good positive spirit for those around us,” she says. “That’s what the Little Drummer Boy’s struggle is. In his mind, he has no gift. He can’t see what gift he has to offer the Christ Child. And we do that same thing. Even when you’ve found what your gift is, you still have doubts.

Young adults struggle to discover what to do with their lives. Middle school and elementary-aged children also try to figure out where they fit in the big picture. We’re not all going to have majestic gifts, like the Three Kings. Some of us will have very humble gifts. But they’re all crucial. Sometimes all it takes is a smile to someone to affect a change.

It’s an important lesson for everyone to know that you matter; no matter how small or large or unimportant by the world’s standards, each person has value and has a gift to share. We all need that hope.”

Lady Holly is also passionate about her role as LCCB’s Artistic Director. She

Jaina Ange, Grace Helms and Gabrielle Saucier as the Gifts of the Magi

December 4, 2014 21

loves mentoring her dancers and watching them grow as young people. “Directing these performances is such a rich rewarding experience. I stand in the wings and am quite often moved to tears, not only by the narration that my mother wrote – she was quite the poet – but also by the work of these young artists. It’s an amazing experience to watch them succeed. They strive to do beyond their best.”

Lady Holly hopes both the performance of the Little Drummer Boy, as well as its important message, will bring a little bit of joy to their audiences during this busy time of year. “No matter how large or small the gift is, it is the sentiment behind it, and we

hope our audiences will sense that from our performers and leave the show with a sense of what their own gift might be to share with others.”

The members of the Lake Charles Civic Ballet want to give you the gift of their dance. Buy your tickets now! Show times are Saturday, December 13, with a matinee at 11 a.m. and the Gala at 6 p.m. Ticket prices are $15 for adults and $10 for students. School group matinee performances are Thursday, December 11 and Friday, December 12 at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Tickets for the school matinees are $5 per student.

Make your reservations via the LCCB website at www.lakecharlescivicballet. com or by calling Ladonna

Knight at (337) 474-0311.

For school performance information, contact Kelly Gifford, at (337) 802-5779.

“The Little Drummer Boy” is presented by L’Auberge Lake Charles and KVHP Fox 29/ The Lake Charles CW7.

About the LCCB Lake Charles Civic Ballet has served the region for over 45 years. Its goal is to achieve total dance theatre by providing a place for experimentation in choreography, composition, and design with the objective of collaboration with other artistic groups and with individual artists in the fulfillment of this goal. LCCB is a 501c3 non-profit organization supported by grants from the Louisiana state Arts Council through the Louisiana Division of the Arts, City of Lake Charles, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau as Administered by the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana.

Graceanne Lacombe, Hannah Arabie, and Claudia Mayo

22 December 4, 2014

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Christmas Card Workshop Through Dec. 31 The City of Lake Charles will host the fourth annual Handmade Christmas Card Workshop at 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center. All ages are welcome to apply their creative skills using several mediums.

All materials will be provided. Students are also invited to contribute their handmade cards as class projects and are welcome to write a letter to Santa. The cards will go to The Calcasieu Council on Aging for distribution to area nursing home residents. (337) 491-9147.

Christmas Under the Oaks Dec. 4-6 Yes, it snows every year at Sulphur’s Christmas Under the Oaks Festival, located at the Brimstone Museum Complex in Sulphur at The Grove in Heritage Square. Festival dates are Thurs.-Sat., Dec. 4-6, with shopping available at the Holiday House Fri. and Sat. The Holiday House will also feature a preview party, Dec. 4, from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. with tickets at $35. Festival hours are Fri., 4 – 9 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. There will be live music, carnival rides and SNOW! (337) 527-0357.

McNeese Holiday Art Sale Dec. 5 The McNeese State University Student Art Association’s annual holiday art sale will be held from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Fri., Dec. 5, in the Grand Gallery on the first floor of the Shearman Fine Arts Annex. McNeese visual arts students and faculty will be offering over 300 artworks for sale that were produced during the fall semester. (337) 475-5635.

Cinderella’s Holiday Dining Dec. 6 Children will join their favorite storybook characters for an unforgettable experience. Character meals include pizza, dessert and a drink. The seating incorporates a visit, photos and autographs from each of these famous characters. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite costume. Seating is at noon and cost is $25 per person (everyone must have a ticket including adults and infants). Seating is limited and reservations

Fri., Dec. 5: Snowman Painting Create your best winter snowman using paint from 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Sat., Dec. 6: Get Animated with CyPhaKids At 11 a.m., kids will learn about the famous Walt Disney and do fun crafts involving the movie Frozen!! The program is limited to 20 children, ages 4-10. However, if more than 20 children are expected, there will be a second event at noon!

must be made by calling the theatre box office at (337) 433-7323.

Gingerbread House Contest Dec. 6 Visions of gingerbread houses will be dancing in their heads as the winners of the Annual Gingerbread House Contest will be announced at noon on Sat., Dec. 6 at the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1205 N. Lakeshore Dr. The contest features awards in different categories including amateur, school groups, and professional bakers. SWLA’s goodwill ambassador and mascot, Gumbeaux Gator, will be on hand to take pictures with the winners. (337) 436-9588.

Small Boat travel to Alaska Presentation Dec. 6 Award-winning Pacific Northwest author Christine Smith and her husband, Captain Jeffrey Smith, will be giving a slideshow presentation at the Central Library on Sat., Dec. 6 from 2-3 p.m. The Smiths’ presentation is based on their numerous travels in Washington State’s San Juan Islands, Canada’s Inside Passage and Alaska, as well as Christine’s book, More Faster Backwards: Rebuilding David B. There will be refreshments after the presentation and Christine and Jeffrey will be available to answer questions. 301 W. Claude St., Lake Charles.

Handel’s Messiah Dec. 7 A moving experience for the entire family, this is the 74th production of The Messiah which continues to be a beautiful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. The performance will include four soloists who are all McNeese students and will feature limited selections. Performance is at 3 p.m. at the Bulber Auditorium, McNeese State University, 4205 Ryan St. (337) 477-0662.

Very Merry Christmas Party for Seniors Dec. 11 A festive day for seniors 60+ who reside in Calcasieu Parish begins

Fri., Dec. 12: Christmas Pasta Necklaces Make a red and green pasta necklace to wear for the holidays from 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Sat., Dec. 13: Sasol’s Second Saturday Science Show Rheology – The Thick and Thin of It All Join Roberta Rabaioli from Sasol and lean how different materials have different flow properties and can behave in unexpected ways.

Demonstrations include silly putty, ketchup, honey and cornstarch solutions. The program begins at 11:30 a.m.

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 24 December 4, 2014

Vol. 6 • No. 18

with a continental breakfast at 9 a.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center.

Music will be provided by Ed Jardell & the Louisiana Scramble Band. A nutritious lunch will be served and bingo will be played for prizes until 1 p.m. (337) 474-2583 (ext. 1050)

LC Civic Ballet’s Little Drummer Boy Dec. 11-13 The Lake Charles Civic Ballet announces upcoming holiday performance dates for the beloved classic, The Little Drummer Boy: Dec. 11-13 at the Rosa Hart Theatre. Enjoy an exciting pre-show performance of a battalion of tap-dancing toy soldiers direct from Santa’s workshop!!

LCCB’s Variations of Joy, a beautiful holiday medley, will also be performed. School group matinee performances are Dec. 11-12 at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Tickets for the school matinees are $5 per student. Reservations may be made at www.lakecharlescivicballet.com. On Dec. 13, there will be an 11 a.m. matinee and 6 p.m. Gala. Tickets are $10 students/ $15 adults. Purchase tickets at the door, online at www.lakecharlescivicballet.com, or by calling (337) 474-0311.

The Nutcracker Dec. 11-14 Enjoy this holiday classic from Tchaikovsky with Thurs. and Fri. performances at 9 a.m., Sat. performances at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sun. at 2 p.m. It will be performed in the style of Ida Winter Clark and produced by Emily Coleman. SFAA Performing Arts Theatre, McNeese State University.

(337) 475-5000.

Holiday Art Market Dec. 12-13 The Arts Council invites the community to purchase local artwork as gifts this holiday season at the annual Holiday Art Market on Dec. 12-13 at the Central School Arts & Humanities Center. Market hours are 3-7 p.m. on Fri., Dec. 12, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 13. A variety of local and affordable art including prints, cards, artisan gifts, and pottery will be available. The S.J. Welsh Art Club will also be selling handmade artwork to raise money for the student club. www.artscouncilswla.org

Bulber Youth Orchestra Christmas Concert Dec. 15 The concert will feature pieces mastered by youth musicians age 7-18 through the fall semester. Door prizes will be drawn as well as a drawing for a full-size student violin. Admission is $5. Begins at 6 p.m. McNeese State University Dept. of Performing Arts. (337) 582-2466.

Rory Partin’s Big Band Sound Dec. 19 Rory Partin performs classic big band songs while leading stellar musicians through his original arrangements at McNeese State University Dept. of Performing Arts. The concert includes original songs released on his new album this year and also features the incredible vocals of Alexa James (Los Angeles Music Awards Hot New AC Artist of the Year in 2010). Ð Begins at 7p.m., $15 Adults /$10 Senior/$5 Students. (337) 433-7988.

Jazz in the Arts Black Tie Dinner Dec. 21 Support Jazz in the Arts and attend the Black Tie Dinner Gala on Sun., Dec. 21 at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Dinner, silent auction, and performances by International mezzo-soprano and jazz vocalist Erica Papillion Posey, Tipitina’s Internship Band and the Jazz in the Arts Rhythm Section. Tickets are $70 per person or $500 for a table and proceeds will go towards music education and scholarships for young people. (337) 7945744 or jazzinthearts.comformances by International mezzo-soprano and jazz vocalist Erica Papillion Posey, Tipitina’s Internship Band and the Jazz in the Arts Rhythm Section. Tickets are $70 per person or $500 for a table and proceeds will go towards music education and scholarships for young people. (337) 794-5744 or jazzinthearts.com.

The Bishop’s Gala Dec. 13 Enjoy the smooth big band sounds of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra while socializing with old and new friends at the Lake Charles Civic Center from 6:30-11:30 pm. Heavy hors d’oeuvres and delicious desserts will be served as well as beer, wine, and soft drinks. Tickets are $125 per person and benefit the Diocese of Lake Charles. (337) 439-7400.

Come See Dec. 13-14 Come See is a dramatic Christmas musical that celebrate the Savior as the promised Child who came to us that holy night! Filled with beautifully written songs and underscores, you will be given a glimpse into what it might have been like 2000 years ago. Dec. 13, 7 p.m., Dec. 14, 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Glad Tidings Church, 3400 Texas St., Lake Charles.

(337)-477-7774.

LC Symphony’s Holiday Home Tour Dec. 14 In celebration of the City of Sulphur’s Centennial birthday, the Lake Charles Symphony is pleased to showcase some of Sulphur’s most delightfully decorated homes for the holiday season from 1-4 p.m. Dec. 14.

The tour will conclude with a stop by the Brimstone Historical Museum for holiday music and refreshments. For questions or tickets, contact Shelly Appleby, (337) 433-1611 or info@lcsymphony.org.

Vol. 6 • No. 18

December 4, 2014 25

Mockingjay Part 1 (Lionsgate, 2014) Mockingjay starts out with makeshift hospital treating a people without hope. Seeing Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence), the people in sick beds, her our teenage heroine, in bed, temper is roused. It is there dreaming about boys, or in front of the cameras that should I say nightmaring.

She’s doing a lot of that these she becomes the angry Mockingjay the rebellion needs. days. This young girl has the Mockingjay is one of the whole world on her shoulstrongest movies of the year, ders. She’s been through two Hunger Games and now with and it’s largely because of Jennifer Lawrence. Have you her family is living underever seen a great actress playground in the mysterious District 13, the seat of the se- ing someone who can’t act?

You have to see this, it’s total cret rebellion. District 1 and mastery of the craft. And her the evil President Snow still performance just goes on and rule all. They are crushing on, even if she is supposed to any outbreaks in the other be playing a Twilight 2-boydistricts figuratively with a friend role. Mockingjay goes giant fist. way beyond that feeble trope.

But Katniss is really upset I really didn’t like the because her number one boyfriend, Peeta, is appearing on book Mockingjay and almost skipped this movie. But Capital TV, the propaganda instead of reading endless channel of District 1. And pages of the inner conflict of he’s spewing verbiage about an adolescent girl, now we’re the rebellion being an evil seeing this conflict masterrisk to the order of Panem, fully turned into action and what used to be the USA. At first, Mockingjay seems the range of emotion that an excellent actress can bring to to be all about propaganda, this role. because a rebellion camera Mockingjay is a very dark crew wants to use Katniss movie. When a little bit of as a symbol to rally all the districts. But Katniss, though laughter comes along, it’s a a great hunter and all around great relief and makes you realize how heavy things are for warrior, is a horrible actress this struggling rebellion. The as they find out. execution is flawless, with To add some reality to Julianne Moore as rebellion the propaganda they hope leader Coin, and the devilish to create, the film crew flies Donald Sutherland as Presiwith Katniss to bombed-out dent Snow. Probably the best District 7, where she visits a 26 December 4, 2014

supporting actress is Elizabeth Banks, who reprises her role as Effie Trinket. Once a District 1 diva, she’s now an unwilling member of the rebellion who manages to make her do-rag look like a fashion statement.

Woody Harrelson is back as Haymitch, the once drunken past victor from District 12. And the late Philip Seymour Hoffman plays a ghostly Plutarch Heavensbee.

Now openly allied with the rebellion, Heavensbee gives Hoffman a chance to haunt us with a reincarnation of his knowing smirk. He supports Katniss as the rebellion’s best chance to rally the other

Districts.

Remember that Mockingjay is part one of a part three.

Though a sub-part movie, I’m compelled to say it’s above par in quality, with dramatic cinematic shots and a creative flair that offers some real surprises.

As a political statement, Mockingjay manages to lay bare the cynicism with which modern warfare becomes a media spectacle, even as people are suffering and dying.

Not a bad feat for a movie about a conflicted teen.

Rated PG-13 for hordes of people getting bombed, shot down, and other intensity.

Leave the little ones at home.

Enjoy!

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Vol. 6 • No. 18

December 4, 2014 27

Whodunits

For nearly a century, mystery readers have been asking “Whodunit?”

The Midnight Plan of the Repo Man

by W. Bruce Cameron opens with the murder of a Realtor, but immediately moves on to introduce us to Ruddy Mc-

28 December 4, 2014

Cann. Ruddy works for a “collateral recovery agency” -- repossessing cars from people who haven’t made their payments -- in Kalkasha, Mich.

Repo man Ruddy has been having nightmares about being murdered.

One night at the Black Bear Bar, he hears a voice talking to him, and he thinks it’s the bar’s stuffed black bear. Is he going nuts? Has the got the Repo Madness?

It turns out the voice has a name -- and a mission. It’s the dead Realtor, Alan, who somehow finds himself living inside Ruddy’s head.

The two form a very odd partnership, as they try to figure out what happened to Alan, and why.

Meanwhile, Ruddy needs money, and he takes us along on a few of his repo missions -- some successful, some hilariously futile. He meets a pretty woman in distress, is attacked by a crazed goose, and has to work with his boss’s young nephew Kermit, who amusingly uses words incorrectly all the time, but no one notices but Ruddy.

Ruddy also has to deal with something from his past. He was a football star in his youth and was

supposedly a shoo-in for the NFL when something happened that stopped him in his tracks. What was it? And why is a stranger sending his friend Jimmy $1,000 checks in the mail?

This is a funny, touching, quirky ride, and it’s apparently the first of a planned series. Cameron is the author of the touching A Dog’s Purpose and A Dog’s Journey, both of which I adored. And, of course, there’s a good old -- but very lazy -- dog in this book, too. Very enjoyable. Available on Macmillan Audio.

Murder at the Brightwell by Ashley Weaver is a classic British cozy, set in June 1932 in England. This is the debut novel of Weaver, who lives in Oakdale, La. The wealthy Milo and Amory Ames have been married five years. It seems Milo has developed a wandering eye; he’s been traveling more and more without his wife -- lately to Monte Carlo for gambling -- and Amory refers to him as Vol. 6 • No. 18

“my wayward husband.”

She tells the reader, “It is an impossibly great trial to be married to a man one loves and hates in equal proportions” and also “I had learned it was better not to know what the society columns said about Milo.”

Amory’s former fiancé Gil seeks her help.

His sister Emmeline is going to marry Rupert, a man Gil doesn’t like.

“He’s not a good sort,” says Gil. So, Amory tells us, “I was to go with him to the seaside, to give the impression that I had left Milo,” to convince Emmeline not to marry Rupert.

At the posh hotel, they are thrown in with several other couples as well as single people out for a holiday. “The Brightwell Hotel sat on a cliff overlooking the sea. It was a lovely white building, sprawling, sturdy, and somehow elegant at the same time. There was something stately yet welcoming about the place. It looked as though it would be equally suited to princes or pirates.” The breakfast room “was at the south side of the hotel, a sunny, golden space that looked out over the terrace, with a sweeping view of the sea. The sky was a vibrant shade of blue, and our dining was accompanied by the sound of gulls and the waves on the rocks below. It was a lovely view for a lovely morning.”

When one of the party is found dead, the inspector tells Amory it was murder, and she decides to do her own sleuthing. But, she tells us, “It seemed that every way I turned people were concealing things.” She writes to her friend about her investigaVol. 6 • No. 18

tions: “Knowing how you love a mystery, I am sure you will be envious. Do not be.

Murder is not nearly as romantic in real life.”

One of the acquaintances tries to commit suicide, someone else is running around drugging people, and another person is murdered. And suddenly, Milo shows up, looking suspiciously as if he’s involved in the murders. “Your husband is an excellent liar,” Amory is told.

I just love Amory and Milo’s verbal sparring, and I can easily envision this as the beginning of a series, à la The Thin Man. A satisfying, old-fashioned mystery.

Lisa Scottoline’s newest book is Betrayed, in which she brings back Bennie Rosato and Mary DiNunzio and their all-female Philadel-

phia law firm. Here, the action focuses on their associate, Judy Carrier.

The law firm’s recent demands on Judy are making her unhappy. At the same time, she finds out bad news about her beloved aunt, and her aunt’s dear friend is found dead of an apparent heart attack. But Aunt Barb and Judy suspect foul play.

Judy has to juggle her precarious position in the law firm, help her aunt as much as she can, put up with her ne’er-do-well boyfriend, and investigate what she is convinced was a murder.

This is solid Scottoline, more action-packed thriller than mystery, placing Judy in dire jeopardy. Although we’ve met these characters before, any reader new to Scottoline can enjoy this book. Available on Macmillan Audio.

Copyright © 2014 by Mary Louise Ruehr.

December 4, 2014 29

Thursday, Dec. 4 Christmas Tribute to the King 5 and 7:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Mark Henry 6 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Thursday Dollar Night @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer and Bar all night Free cover ‘til 10 p.m. w/college ID 5329 Common St., LC Classix Band 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge at Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Dr., Vinton

Live music 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Paul Gonsoulin 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), LC Live Music 7 p.m. @ Stellar Beans Coffee 319 Broad St., LC John Leger & the Biloxi Cajuns 8 p.m. – Midnight Mary’s Lounge 4017 E. Broad St. LC

The Scheme 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Larry Tillery and the Vagabond Dreamers 8 p.m. @ Cooler’s Ice House 3622 Ryan St., LC Travis Matte and the Kingpins 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Nichole Marceaux & Twisted Fate 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder DJ 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Karaoke Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC DJ Eric Scott 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Friday, Dec. 5 Christmas Tribute to the King 5 and 7:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder 30 December 4, 2014

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Acoustic Pie 9 p.m. - Midnight @ The Cigar Club 1700 E Prien Lake Rd, LC

DJ Eric Scott 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Keith Kire 8 p.m. @ Longhorns (Casino) 2374 HWY 109 S., Vinton Live Music 9 p.m. @ Yesterdays 5313 Common St., LC

Live Music 9 p.m. @ Yesterdays 5313 Common St., LC

Saturday, Dec. 6

DJ Music 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC

Christmas Tribute to the King 5 and 7:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

DJ Music 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC

Keith Kire 9 p.m. @ Longhorns (Club) 2374 HWY 109 S., Vinton

Live Music 7 p.m. @ Stellar Beans Coffee 319 Broad St, LC

Saturday Night Party Time 9 p.m. @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer and Bar until Midnight 5329 Common St., LC

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

LA Bayou Band 7 – 11 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), LC

Live Music 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Linda’s Lounge 4338 Lake St., LC

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Kenny Spears 8 p.m. @ Longhorns (Club) 2374 HWY 109 S., Vinton

Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., LC Bernie Alan 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Ryan Bunch 9 p.m. - Midnight @ The Cigar Club 1700 E Prien Lake Rd, LC Live Music 9:30 p.m. @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G, LC DJ Eric Scott 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Sunday, Dec. 7 Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan St, LC Clint Faulk 4 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), LC

December 4, 2014 31

Twangster’s Union 5 p.m. @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E. Broad St. LC

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

Music 10:30 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC

Karaoke 9 p.m. @ Cooler’s Ice House 3622 Ryan St., LC

Monday, Dec. 8

Thursday, Dec. 11

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

Thursday Dollar Night @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer and Bar all night Free cover ‘til 10 p.m. w/college ID 5329 Common St., LC

Tuesday, Dec. 9 Christmas Tribute to the King 5 and 7:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Christmas Tribute to the King 7:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Mickey Smith 6:30 @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), LC

Shane Rodriguez & Hillbilly Trick Show

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

Wednesday, Dec. 10 Louisiana Night & Abita Pint Nite $2 Louisiana Beers $3.50 Louisiana Spirit/Cocktails 6 p.m. - Midnight @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G, LC Chris Miller 6:30 @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), LC

32 December 4, 2014

9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder DJ Night 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Karaoke Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC DJ Sno 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Friday, Dec. 12

JC Melancon 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), LC 3 Sheets 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC LA Bayou Band 8 p.m. @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E. Broad St. LC LA Express 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge at Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Dr., Vinton Dustin Lynch 8 p.m. @ Texas Longhorn (Club) 2374 HWY 109 S., Vinton Live Music 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Linda’s Lounge 4338 Lake St., LC Flashback Friday 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Live Music 9 p.m. @ Yesterdays 5313 Common St., LC Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., LC

Joe Ecker 8- 11 p.m. @ The Cigar Club 1700 E Prien Lake Rd, LC

Christmas Tribute to the King 5 and 7:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

RKW Show 9 p.m.- Midnight @ The Cigar Club 1700 E Prien Lake Rd, LC

Music 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC

Live Music 7 p.m. @ Stellar Beans Coffee House 319 Broad St, LC

DJ Night 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Vol. 6 • No. 18

Dance Night 9 p.m. - 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC

Hydrogen Child 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 719 Ryan St., LC DJ Sno 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Saturday, Dec. 13 Christmas Tribute to the King 5 and 7:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Angie Manning and Ryan Bunch 7 p.m. @ Stellar Beans Coffee House 319 Broad Street, LC

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Flashback 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), LC Good Times and Cold Drinks 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. @ Cooler’s Ice House 3622 Ryan St., LC Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., LC DJ Night 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Rod Richard 8 p.m. @ Texas Longhorn (Casino) 2374 HWY 109 S., Vinton Wayne Dylan 9 p.m. - Midnight @ The Cigar Club 1700 E Prien Lake Rd, LC

Live Music 9 p.m. @ Yesterdays 5313 Common St., LC

Brad Brinkley & Comfort Zone 5-9 p.m. @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E. Broad St. LC

Saturday Night Party Time 9 p.m. @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer and Bar until Midnight 5329 Common St., LC

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

Special Event Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC

Monday, Dec. 15

Live Music 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G, LC

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

Tuesday, Dec. 16

DJ Sno 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Christmas Tribute to the King 5 and 7:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Sunday, Dec. 14

Will Christian 6:30 p.m.@ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), LC

Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan St, LC

December 4, 2014 33

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

Wednesday, Dec. 17 Louisiana Night & Bayou Rum Night $2 Louisiana Beers $3.50 Louisiana Spirit/Cocktails 6 p.m. - Midnight @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G, LC Chris Miller 6:30 @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Louisiana 3059 (Old Town Rd.), LC William Christian 8-11 p.m. @ The Cigar Club 1700 E Prien Lake Rd, LC Karaoke 9 p.m.- @ Cooler’s Ice House 3622 Ryan St., LC

Thursday, Dec. 18 Christmas Tribute to the King 7:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Willie Tee, Warren Storm & Cypress 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Karaoke Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC DJ CaGe 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC 34 December 4, 2014

Happy Holidays SWLA! This has been quite the year for me and with less than a month away from 2015, I have finally learned to take each day as it comes, enjoying my life in the moment. While I plan ahead and look forward to what the future holds, I make sure not to rush my life away.

October typically gets overwhelming for me and this year, I decided not to recognize it and not let it take hold of my life. I appreciate those close to me who helped me while I worked through it. I hope that all of you check on those people in your lives who may not seem like themselves or could use some extra attention during this time of year; they will greatly appreciate it. Take in each moment and make the most of it, whether it’s at a high point or not. The low points in my life have helped me appreciate the triumphant moments when they come my way.

I have also realized how important this community is to me. As our landscape changes with construction, speculation of our area’s future and the growing traffic issues, the feel of our city is literally transforming overnight.

The one thing that remains consistent is the action-packed schedule to celebrate the season. Do all you can to make the most of the festivities. There are so many events lined up I can’t list them all, but I will point out some of my favorites and some that I think you may want to explore.

Starting in the Lake City with the “Light Up The Lake Christmas Celebration” on Dec. 6, there’s a day full of events on tap for you. From noon until night the fun doesn’t stop. This year, eight-year-old Carter King Sarro will serve as the Grand Marshal of the Christmas Parade while representing the Up4-Downs organization. You can see Carter in the parade that begins at 1 p.m. and leads to the Civic Center for Santa’s Workshop for kids ages 6-12 from 2-5 p.m. At 3:30, the Community Band Christmas Concert will take place on the second floor Mezzanine, which is always a special treat.

At 5, the outdoor fun begins with a per-

formance by the Barbe Show Choir. At 6, our Grand Marshal will team up with Mayor Roach to flip the switch illuminating our beautiful lakefront bringing all of the magic to life. Then, we’ll head to the lakefront for the lighted boat parade at 6:30, which concludes with fireworks and an award ceremony for the boat parade winners.

Across the lake in Sulphur on Dec. 5 and 6, the Christmas Under the Oaks Festival will be underway. Each year, the City of Sulphur promises snow along with a fun time at the Brimstone Museum Complex complete with music, carnival rides and shopping at Heritage Square. Also on Dec. 5 at 6 p.m., the Kiwanis Christmas Lighted Parade rolls through town.

One of my favorite bands, Rusty Metoyer and The Zydeco Krush, perform Friday night, followed by Brandon Ledet and Creole Touch.

On Dec. 6, Carol Hollier & the Crowley Playboys will perform from 2-3:30 p.m. followed

by Louisiana Express, Cold Sweat, and the Kadillacs. At 6 p.m., enjoy the traditional tree lighting and snow! Other surprises are scheduled over the weekend in SWLA, so don’t miss out!

The Nutcracker will be performed at the SFAA Performing Arts Theatre on McNeese State University’s campus in the style of Ida Winter Clark from Dec. 11-14 (337) 475-5000.

Another live performance option is the Lake Charles Civic Ballet’s presentation of The Little Drummer Boy on Dec. 13 with an 11 a.m. matinee and 6 p.m. Gala (337) 474-0311.

1911 Historic City Hall invites the public to participate in their annual Christmas Card Workshop, which benefits The Calcasieu Council on Aging. It takes place throughout the entire month of December Mon.-Fri. from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (337) 491-9147.

Each year, I look forward to the Annual Gingerbread House voting and display. The display is impressive with an array of submissions from contestants of all ages. You can contact the Lake Charles/SWLA Convention and Visitors Bureau for more details by calling (337) 436-9588.

I also want to mention DeQuincy and their impressive “Christmas at the Railroad Museum” from Dec. 5-31. This event fits right in with DeQuincy’s traditional holiday lighting and parade (337)786-2823.

Thank you all for supporting local and sharing in the joy of this holiday season and this unique area that is Southwest Louisiana. Please make the most of each moment.

Happy Holidays to Phil and Lauren along with the rest of my follow media members at The Jambalaya News, LakeCharles.com, KBYS and every other platform I get the honor to work with to support the Lake City and our region.

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Vol. 6 • No. 18

December 4, 2014 35

THE MINES PRESENT A CHRISTMAS CAROL Hosted by the City of Sulphur, the New Sulphur Community Theatre, The Mines, made their debut at W.W. Lewis Auditorium with two scheduled performances before a packed house. The cast performed their version of A Christmas Carol, but there were no Scrooges in the audience! A standing ovation for the cast and crew!

Donnie Fuslier and Morgan Kinney

Trisha and Hayleigh Moore

Kristy Foreman and Danon Jackson

Sheila Kinney, Phoebe Miller and Melissa Hebert

Troy, Wendi and Taylor Case

A CELTIC CHRISTMAS Musician and singer Danny O’Flaherty brought us A Celtic Christmas through the centuries at Stellar Beans and Edibles the other night. We gathered for an evening of traditions, stories and songs of the Celtic Nations with lots of laughter, food and fun. Bravo, Danny!

Marilyn Vaughn and Roger Breaux

Gary and Susan Shannon 36 December 4, 2014

Sandra Leder and Bob Dewey

Cindy, Rebecca and Randy Stelly

Hazel Power, Danny O’Flaherty and Peter Power Vol. 6 • No. 18

MISTLETOE & MOSS HOLIDAY MARKET November means the annual Mistletoe and Moss Holiday Market presented by the Junior League of Lake Charles Inc.-- and what a market it was! From gourmet food to bath and beauty items, gifts, home décor, accessories and more, the area merchants displayed their absolute best. There was something unique and special to be found for everyone—and Santa Claus even showed up for all the good little boys and girls! Always a special event!

Amy, Owen and Connor Brassette McKeon

Seth and Julie Varayon

Vol. 6 • No. 18

Elise Thibodeaux and Haileigh Smith

Sarah Gertz, Vinnie Reed, Emily Candler and Tabitha Wolfe

Jeri Griffin, Ranee Sills, Susan Sagrera and Tammy Bogan

December 4, 2014 37

BLACK FRIDAY WEEKEND SHOPPING Let the Christmas deals and shopping begin!

Crowds of wheelers and dealers flooded the parking lots of area retailers offering specials starting in the wee morning hours well into the following night in the Lake Area. Everyone was in the holiday spirit as they were out and about spending their money! Shop ‘til you drop!

Emily and Katie DeWitt

Skylar and Carissa Dewalt

38 December 4, 2014

Derek Hasha and Taylor Gremillion

Ada Miller and Addie Trosclair

Brooke Weeks and Amy Lavergne

Vol. 6 • No. 18

CHRISTMAS! Advent Candy Cane Christmas Egg Nog Frosty

Manger Mistletoe Noel Peace on Earth Presents

Rejoice Rudolph Santa Claus Scrooge Silent Night

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. 18

December 4, 2014 39