January 15, 2015 • Volume 6 • Issue 20
715 Kirby St. Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 www.thejambalayanews.com
On cover: 76th Annual Southwest District Livestock Show & Rodeo
COVER STORY 20 Rodeo: It’s The New Old West REGULARS 6 We Are SWLA!
Publisher/Executive Editor Lauren Abate de Albuquerque
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The Dang Yankee
lauren@thejambalayanews.com
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Adoption Corner
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Tips from Tip
Contributors Lisa Addison George Cline Dan Ellender Braylin Jenkins Jason Machulski Mike McHugh Roger Miller Russell Pawlowski Mary Louise Ruehr Karla Tullos Sales sales@thejambalayanews.com Graphics Art/Production Director Burn Rourk Business Office Manager Jeanie Taggart
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10 Huntin’ Tales 12 Tales of the Bayou Pickers 13 The Pirate’s Platter 14 This Functional Family FEATURES 4 Catholic Schools Week 2015 16 Influenza is Dangerous for Children 18 Jackie Tabor: On a ROLL! 3 1 Red Cross Winter Safety Tips THE SPICE OF SWLA
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24 Event Guide
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24 Mardi Gras SWLA Event Guide 30 Family Fun Night at the Movies 32 Red Hot Books 34 Nightlife Guide 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.
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36 Lake City Beat! 40 Society Spice 43 Funbolaya
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A Note From Lauren Man Caves, East Boston- Style “Man Caves” is a term that is used a lot nowadays. A man cave is supposed to be a room that belongs to the man of the house alone. It’s all his, except when other men are invited to share it on occasion. It’s meant to contain all of those things that make a man happy: a big TV with 55 sports channels, unlimited cans of beer, and whatever else floats his boat. Depending on the degree of manliness in the man, there could be animal heads and big fish with startled expressions on the walls. Or, there could be a huge collection of superhero figures staring down at you from their shelves. You get the idea. It’s a place where a guy can escape to chill out while still in the comfort of his own home. When you live in a three-decker in East Boston, there weren’t a whole lot of places to hide. Especially if you were a guy. And especially if Aunt Jeannette was on the second floor with one ear to the wall, trying to find out what Everyone in the Building was Up To. If you were doing anything remotely questionable, she would smoke you out, I guarantee it. My Uncle Frankie lived with his wife Frances and his sister,
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the notorious Jeannette, in the same apartment. As often as he could, he’s grab his hat and jacket and head down to “the corner” to hang out with his buddies and then proceed to the track to bet on the dogs or the horses. He knew he was outnumbered. He didn’t even try to carve out a space for himself there. My father was an artist, and he also collected stamps, so he made an office/studio in our den. He would go through his Art Phase, where he would sketch and paint for months in his spare time. Then he’d put his brushes and easels away and get on his Stamp Phase, which I thought was excruciatingly boring. I loved to sit with him and watch him create art, but I did not hang around when all that stamp business was going on. Then there was my Uncle Ricky, on the first floor. Ricky was one of ten kids and he needed a man cave. He need A Room of His Own. He actually found two spots on Barnes Avenue to fulfill that need. One was a lot less practical than the other, but they both worked for him. The impractical one was The Closet in the room called the
“reception hall.” No, this wasn’t Buckingham Palace. Ricky and Gloria lived on the first floor, and this was the room you walked into when you came through the front door. It had a nice long, deep closet for winter coats and such, and Ricky loved it. He tacked photos and inspirational sayings on the walls and used it as his dressing room. This occasionally became a bit of problem when company came in and Ricky was still in The Closet. There were a few times when an unsuspecting guest opened the closet door only to discover Ricky in his underwear. Luckily, he had another, more practical location, and that was the cellar. He loved to putter around and fix things and there was all kinds of room down there for tools and paint and nails and wires and God knows what else. It was all on a huge wooden table that I believe belonged to my grandfather, and he added shelves as needed. Jeannette went nuts over the clutter, of course. He would spend hours down there on weekends and in the evenings, so if you went down for any reason, you would probably find him there. But unlike the denizens of most man caves,
he didn’t begrudge our visits and would happily show us the latest project he was working on. It was fascinating to see what he was up to. “He tries to make life easier, but the house looks like a cyclone hit it,” Gloria would always say, rolling her eyes whenever he would bring his most recent invention into their apartment. (I remember a “tree” made of wire hangers that he put over the heater on the gas stove to dry out mittens in the winter. It wasn’t pretty.) Man caves have changed a lot since then. There is actually an official Man Cave website with a 2015 Man Cave Calendar filled with photos of the Man Caves of the Year. Their slogan is “Taking Back the World, One Man Cave at a Time,” which implies that women own the world. Of course we do. Who needs a cave when we have the world?
Lauren Abate de Albuquerque
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A Celebration of Faith and Education By Lauren Abate de Albuquerque National Catholic Schools Week is the annual observance of Catholic education in the United States. This year’s theme is “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge, and Service.” It starts the last Sunday in January and
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runs all week, which in 2015 is January 25-31. Bishop Glen John Provost will celebrate the annual Catholic Schools Week Mass with representatives from each of the seven Catholic schools in the Diocese of Lake Charles. Mass begins at 9:30 a.m. in the
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in downtown Lake Charles on Wed., Jan. 28. “Catholic education is a way of life for our students at Our Lady Queen of Heaven School,” says principal JoAnn Wallwork. “We are blessed to be able to offer Catholic education and
formation to our students. As partners in this process, students, teachers and parents are asked to work cooperatively to provide the best possible learning opportunities and spiritual development for all children, while enjoying a safe environment with Christ as the central focus.” Our Lady Queen of Heaven School will commemorate Catholic Schools week with a volleyball game between the faculty and the eighth grade on Jan. 28 at 1:15 p.m. The following morning, an alumni mass will be held at 9 a.m., followed by a reception. St. Margaret Catholic School on Enterprise Blvd. is celebrating this special week by honoring a different entity each day. For example, Monday, January 26, the theme is “Building a Community of Faith, Knowledge, and Service for our Faculty.” On this day, the Student Council will serve breakfast to faculty and staff, and students in the second through fifth grades will decorate the bulletin board in the cafeteria with 100 reasons why they love their school. On Thursday of that week, the theme is “Building a Community of Faith, Knowledge, and Service for our Families.” It’s Parent Appreciation Day, and faculty, staff, and cheerleaders will greet parents and give them a treat during the Vol. 6 • No. 20
Diocese of Lake Charles Office of Catholic Schools 2014-2015 Elementary School Calendar Students Report Session Begins - Thurs. August 14, 2014 Session Ends - Fri. May 22. 2015
morning drop off. There will also be a classroom visitation for parents in the morning, and parents will be receiving thank-you letters from their children. “Catholic education focuses on the whole child, body, mind, and spirit, and values each child as a unique and individual learner,” says Christi Jarreau, principal of Immaculate Conception Cathedral School on Ryan St. in Lake
Charles. “Catholic schools seek to engage students in activities and experiences that allow them to encounter Christ. What better place can a child learn, grow, and become who they were meant to be?” Jarreau points out that since almost everyone’s academic experiences include success and failure, happiness and disappointment, wins and losses, “a Catholic education reminds us that we are not alone.”
Holidays Students DO NOT attend school Labor Day - Monday, Sept. 1 Thanksgiving - Monday, Nov. 24 to Friday, Nov. 28 Christmas - Friday, Dec. 19 (1/2 day) to Friday, Jan. 2 MLK Day - Monday, Jan. 19 Mardi Gras - Friday, Feb. 13 to Tuesday, Feb. 17 Easter - Thursday, April 2 (1/2 day) to April 10 Teacher in Service 1/2 Days Thursday, May 21 • Friday, May 22 Teacher in Service Full Days Students DO NOT attend school Monday, Aug. 11 to Wednesday, Aug. 13 Friday, Sept. 19 - Diocesan Monday, Oct. 13 • Friday, Mar. 20 Progress Reports Thursday, Sept. 18 • Thursday, Nov. 13 Thursday, Feb. 12 • Thiursday, April 16 Quarter End Dates Friday, Oct. 17 • Friday, Dec. 19 Friday, Mar. 13 • Friday, May 22 Report Card Dates Friday, Oct. 24 • Friday, Jan. 9 Thursday, Mar. 19 • Friday, May 22 Other Events Homecoming Week - Oct. 6-11 Homecoming Parade - Oct. 8 Catholic Schools Week - Jan. 25 to Jan. 31 High School Placement Test - Saturday, Feb. 7 Returning Student Registration - Feb. 18 to Feb. 27 New Family Registration - Monday, Mar. 2 ASPIRE Testing - TBA St. Louis Graduation - Tuesday, May 12 New Teacher in Service - Monday, Aug. 4 Admin and Staff - Tuesday, Aug. 5
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Scott Elected President of PACE Representatives from a group of 20 coastal parishes have elected current Calcasieu Parish Police Jury President Dennis Scott, as President of the Louisiana Parishes Against Coastal Erosion (PACE) group. The organization is dedicated to coordinating Louisiana’s coastal parishes’ efforts to present a unified front as they work on restoration issues related to coastal erosion and wetlands, and fight flood insurance hikes.
Police Jury Elects New Officers for 2015
Judge Kent Savoie Sworn into Court of Appeal Judge Kent Savoie was officially sworn into the Third Circuit Court of Appeal recently at the 14th Judicial District Court in Lake Charles. The ceremony was attended by fellow judges, family, and friends as the oath of office was administered by Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Jeanette Theriot Knoll. State Senator Ronnie Johns acted as Master of Ceremonies. Savoie was presented his robe by his wife, Patricia, along with several children and grandchildren. Savoie, Judge Kent Savoie who had served as District Judge on the 14th Judicial District Court for 13 years, was elected on November 4 with 59 percent of the vote. He replaces retiring Judge David Painter.
LAMC’s 2014 Employee and Managers of the Year Lake Area Medical Center recently named Brian Guillory, a Maintenance Mechanic II in the Plant Operations Department as the 2014 Employee of the Year; Sherron Deculus, RN, Case Management Director as the 2014 Clinical Manager of the Year and Kelly Cady, Lake Area Physicians Practice Director as the 2014 Non-Clinical Manager of the Year. The award is the highest honor bestowed on a hospital employee each year. All were nominated for the award by their hospital peers based on their dedication to patient care, their professionalism and their contributions on the job.
Brian Guillory 6 January 15, 2015
Sherron Deculus
Kelly Cady
The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury elected Nic Hunter as president for 2015 and Sandra Treme as vicepresident, both by acclamation at its January 8 regular meeting. Hunter succeeds Dennis Scott, and Treme succeeds Tony Guillory. Hunter is a resident of Lake Charles and is currently serving his first term as the District Five Nic Hunter Police Juror with the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury. He is the manager of Harlequin Steaks and Seafood and has been running it full-time since he was 17. He is a graduate of St. Louis Catholic HS and McNeese State University. Treme is a resident of Dequincy and is serving her sixth term as the District 11 Police Juror and represents large portions of Northern and Western Calcasieu. She is the owner of Tall Pines Realty.
Calcasieu Community Clinic Receives Check The Calcasieu Community Clinic received a $16,00 check from the proceeds of their fundraiser, Wine Down, Vino 101, held October 8. Dr. Michael Kudla, president of the Calcasieu Medical Society Foundation, presents the check to Kayla Rigney, executive director, Calcasieu Community Clinic and Robby Guillory, clinic board president. Also pictured: Fr. Brian King of Christus St. Patrick Hospital, the Presenting Champagne Sponsor.
McNeese Volleyball Team Receives Donation The McNeese volleyball team recently received a $10,000 donation from the Cowgirl Volleyball Club from its founder and owner, Mike Lewis. Lewis started the club to foster the development of youth volleyball in Southwest Louisiana and throughout the years, has always donated a large portion of the profits to McNeese volleyball.
(L to R) Coach Eric Majors, Head Coach Ashleigh Fitzgerald, Coach Lauren Dorris and Mike Lewis. Vol. 6 • No. 20
First Federal Bank Selected for Award First Federal Bank of Louisiana was selected to receive the 2014 City of Lake Charles Mayor’s Commission on Disability Award for its willingness to provide employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities, which further enhance their opportunities for full (L to R): John Cardone, City Administrator for City of LC; Sam participation in life. Wilkinson, CRO & Director of Human Resources for First Federal Criteria for the award Bank; Jeremy Furs, Market Data Analyst for First Federal Bank; includes hiring indiBrandon Jones, President for MCOD viduals with disabilities as a regular practice, accommodating employees with disabilities in the workplace, and encouraging policies and practices that demonstrate equitable treatment of employees with disabilities. For more information, visit www.ffbla.com.
Fusion5 Elects Three New Board Members Fusion 5, Southwest Louisiana’s premier young professionals organization, recently announced the addition of three members to its board of directors. Shonda Manuel, Alberto Galan and Blake Brignac will serve one-year terms, which will begin in January 2015. Manuel is the associate creative director at Healthy Image Marketing and the photographer for Thrive Magazine. A native of
Lake Charles, Galan is an administrative analyst in the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury’s Administration Office and an adjunct Blake Brignac Shonda Manuel Alberto Galan instructor at Sowela Technical Community College, where he teaches Introduction to Criminal Law. Brignac is a financial advisor for Merrill Lynch. Prior to joining Merrill Lynch in 2013, Brignac spent five years as a food scientist for a large food manufacturer.
L’Auberge Donates to Abraham’s Tent L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles and the Pinnacle Entertainment Foundation recently donated $25,000 to Abraham’s Tent, a Lake Charles food bank that moved into a newly constructed facility (L to R) Robert Piper, Abraham’s Tent board member; Kerry Andersen, director on Fruge Street of PR for L’Auberge Casino Resort; Pearl Cole, executive director for Abraham’s Tent; and Keith W. Henson, senior VP and general manager at L’Auberge. in November.
SOWELA’s Practical Nursing Program Pins 21 On December 16, 2014, SOWELA’s Practical Nursing Class 140 was honored in a pinning ceremony held at the First Baptist Church of Westlake. Class 140 was honored by family and friends for their accomplishments and completion of study over the past 16 months. Nursing Class 140 is the first group of students to graduate since the new 35,000 square foot HC Drew Nursing & Allied Health building opened on the Lake Charles campus. For information about SOWELA and its programs, visit www.sowela.edu or email zoe.puryear@sowela.edu. Vol. 6 • No. 20
January 15, 2015 7
Where Art Thou, Puck? Believe it or not, I wasn’t much into ice hockey when I lived in Yankee Land. I was of the minority opinion among the folks up there that ice was better used for margaritas rather than for playing a game. Lately, however, I’ve found that my opinion has softened. That’s due in large part to the efforts of my godson, Greg, who’s still trapped in Yankee Land and firmly sides with the majority. He’s such a hockey nut that he would kill to drink a margarita made from ice that was shaved off the playing surface by the skates of his idol, Washington Capitals’ forward Alex Ovechkin. For the past year, Greg dogged me as much as a trial lawyer would an asbestos exposure victim, not letting up until I, too, joined the ranks of the hockey faithful. Eventually I caved, making the excuse that it would give us a common interest. It was
either that or start listening to Blink-182, a band whose music has been successfully used on chicken farms to ward off predators. Having thus decided to become a hockey fan, the first thing I had to do was to go find some hockey games to watch. This, I discovered, is a hard thing to do in Louisiana, we being such an ice-poor state, which in truth is not a bad thing. Luckily, there’s the Internet, where you can access coverage of any sport imaginable. If you’re into toe wrestling, you can go online and find a couple of feet duking it out any time day or night. For hockey fans, there’s NHL GameCenter, which provides coverage of nearly every league game. I signed up and started watching. After a few minutes, my suspicions about the sport were confirmed—ice hockey is a cult. Greg’s fanaticism was the first clue. But when you
actually watch the game, you find other similarities. Chief among these is that with both cults and ice hockey, you have to believe in things that you can’t see. With a cult, it’s the leader’s admonition that he communicates through his cat with a superior intelligence from another galaxy. With ice hockey, it’s the puck. It’s impossible for a mere human, even a sober one, to see the puck during a hockey game. That’s because it’s about the size of a Chiclet, and it’s the only matter in the universe that’s known to travel faster that the speed of light. Physicists, who’ve recently succeeded in detecting the elusive, subatomic Higgs boson particle have to this day been unable to prove the actual existence of a hockey puck. To compensate for the puck’s virtual invisibility, they use horns and flashing lights at games to let the fans know
when a goal has in fact been scored. I’m not sure how anyone, the players and referees included, really knows when to activate the goal signal. They may just do it at random times, or if they feel a need to stir up some excitement because there hadn’t been a fight in the previous five minutes. Rarely does a game go that long between fights, which would explain why hockey is relatively low scoring. Despite hockey’s oddities, or maybe because of them, I’m really becoming fond of the sport. I could tell you a lot more about it, but there’s a game on tonight, and it’s time for me to retreat to my private Alex Ovechkin shrine for some obligatory pre-faceoff meditation. Mike McHugh is a syndicated columnist from Lake Charles. You can follow him on his blog at thedangyankee. com or on Twitter @dang_ yankee.
Sue Bella is a four-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound who weighs approximately 45 pounds. She is a very sweet girl, is loving and eager to please and is good with children. Sue Bella once lived in Texas, but somehow was lost and made her way to Sulphur. Her original owners were located, but asked that she be re-homed due to changes in the family’s circumstances. Sue Bella has lived with other medium-sized dogs and two small children. She loves to explore the outdoors and loves equally to be cuddling on the couch with her humans. She will require a fenced yard. House-trained and cratetrained, Sue Bella is spayed and up-to-date on vetting. A vet check and home visit are required. For more information, call or email: (337) 478-7294, lapaw@bellsouth.net. 8 January 15, 2015
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Gras at the Civic Center, where all the Krewes show off their royalty in their finery) and plenty of parades that will add to your bead collections. Party on and “Laissez les bons temps rouler!”
New Year’s Musings We have started off the New Year with all the traditional trappings and have the normal burning desire for a great 2015. I’m not going to bore you with all the healthy blah-blah-blah; you really don’t want to read about it and you wouldn’t change your lifestyle because of what I write. I find little use for those who preach about how you should live your life (like they have a life that would put yours to shame in the first place). I have no problem with the learned ones sharing their information, but trying to force some vision of what is the best for you down your throat is not what life is all about. We should bask in being human with all of its frailties. We all have the right to choose our lifestyle; whether or not it is in tune with the great celestial movement is not up to others to select for us. As long as your lifestyle does not interfere with the rights of another, it is your right to live in the manner in which you choose. Your weight is your privilege, whether you appear anorexic or obese, only you can control it; you can make or not make decisions to change Vol. 6 • No. 20
it either way. If you choose to smoke, then as long as you do it in your own environs and do not affect others, then smoke ‘em if you got ‘em. We need to be personally responsible for our own actions; blaming others for what we think, say and do will never make you happy. Stand in your own light. Happy Mardi Gras! I would be negligent to not acknowledge Mardi Gras, which is continuing fast and furiously. We have a short season this year, falling on February 17. Fluctuated by the spring equinox and the coming of the first full moon thereafter, the length of the season depends on the varying date upon which Easter falls, which occurs 40 days after Fat Tuesday. There is always some way to revel in the festivities. If you didn’t make the opening 12th Night event at the Civic Center, there are still many opportunities for fun and merriment. Mardi Gras is a party for no reason other to have a party. You don’t have to belong to a Krewe to have fun. There are open activities such as the Gumbo Cook Off, the Gala (Monday night before Mardi
New and Improved is not Repackaging has always been a hook to get more of your money by giving you less. The “New and Improved” label nearly always means the package has been changed to accomplish a reduction in value. Of late, I have noticed that the “New Look” label means the amount in the package has changed—and not in our favor. Make sure you know what you are getting. All businesses need to make a profit, but being honest will help consumers feel confident about what they are purchasing. Letting management know that you are aware of their practices will make for much better relationships in the long run. If management knows their customers pay attention to their actions, they will take care in their actions. If management knows we are sheep-like and pay no attention, they are likely to treat us in a less straightforward manner. Supermarket Roundup One item that is not subject to artificial manipulation is a head of lettuce. They can be different sizes, but a head of lettuce is basically a head of lettuce. Nothing like a good lettuce wedge salad with some blue cheese, fresh cracked
black pepper and crumbled bacon on top. Sometimes, you really, really want one. We have checked the prices on some items that are commonly use in making one of these delicious sides to a steak and baked potato. We obtained these prices on Wednesday, January 7, at the following stores: Albertsons-Country Club Road, Market BasketLake Street, Kroger-McNeese Street and Walmart-Nelson Road. The prices reflect the posted price on the shelf where the product was placed for sale. Iceberg lettuce, per head: Albertsons $1.49, Market Basket $1.29, Kroger $.99, Walmart $1.29. Crumbled blue cheese, 5-ounce package (brand indicated): Albertsons $4.99 (Treasure Cave), Market Basket $4.97 (Kraft), Kroger $4.99 (Amablu), Walmart $2.98 (Treasure Cave). Kraft Blue Cheese Dressing, 16-ounce bottle: Albertsons $2.99, Market Basket $2.09, Kroger $1.99, Walmart $1.98. Hormel Black Label Bacon, 16-ounce package: Albertsons $5.99, Market Basket $6.79, Kroger $4.99, Walmart $4.78. McCormick Black Pepper Grinder, 1.24-ounce size: Albertsons $2.59, Market Basket $2.59, Kroger $2.59, Walmart $1.98.
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Jimmy’s Place Ever hunted Jim Bel’s hunting lodge? If “No” is your answer, then put it on your water fowler’s bucket list. This old Cajun has been a frequent guest there ever since Jimmy opened the lodge in 2000. I’ve hunted all over Louisiana: Caddo Lake, the flooded timber around Monroe, soybean field ponds near Alexandria, salt marshes south of Houma, cypress swamps along Bundick Lake and damn near everywhere in Southwest Louisiana. Jim Bel’s
Lodge, aka Hackberry Hilton, is simply the best-of-everything old school hunting lodge. To get there, you head south down Hwy. 27 to Hackberry, turn right at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, then follow the big B signs all the way to duck hunter heaven. Jimmy has 8,000 acres of marsh, much of it fresh water impoundment. His property is surrounded on three sides by brackish marsh and bordered on the south by the Sabine National Wildlife Re-
m Wise, George Kuffel, me, Ji with the cat guests and Jim Bel 10 January 15, 2015
serve. Sure makes the point for location, location, location. Speaking of location, you can’t miss the turn into the lodge; it’s the left just before the putting green. Once you enter the camp, if you’re lucky, the ladies will be cooking. The aroma of their cuisine is even better than the Gourmet Gourmand’s (moi) at Lacoste Lodge, if that‘s possible. As you step down into the Great Room, your attention rivets to the paired mounts of every duck and goose that Loui-
siana has to offer hanging from the high ceiling. My constant companion on my visits is retired Army Major and Jim’s wife Lana’s favorite former McNeese professor, George S. Kuffel. Two years ago, while on a hunt there and just after busting some pintails, something truly important dawned on me. “George,” I said. “Yes?” he replied with the hunter’s glow still in his eyes. “This is the 41st year we’ve hunted together,” I said, touched by the realization. George pondered that a moment, grinned and said, “Yep.” Of all the hunters I’ve been afield with, I had to hunt with a 5’7” Clint Eastwood-type. We’ve hunted ducks, geese, snipe, woodcock, doves and even quail over the years. He is the simply the best companion I’ve had the honor to be afield with, but loquacious he ain‘t. On another visit to Bel’s, Lake Charles businessman Jim Wise and I decided after a morning hunt that we needed to hunt again that afternoon. A blue norther had blown through and the wind was now a driven bustling chill. The next day was the end of the season, so we knew we could beg Jimmy into one of those rarest of events, an afternoon hunt there. He gave us permission, hooked us up with a guide, and 25 minutes later, we were in his blind. We should have had a hint of what was to come as our guide was as old and deaf as Jim Wise and I. One does not wear one’s hearing aids on a hunt. It was like a season opening day with ducks covering the sky. We passed everything but the “flying filets” (teal) as we waited on the pintails to pour out of Sabine Reserve. And they did in flock after flock. We had tried our best on the teal to hear the guide’s “Take ’em,” but between the howling wind and our deafness, we were doing more of a Three Stooges’ routine than a seasoned hunter’s performance. What transpired was a lot of “Huhs, “Whats” and “Well, damns.” Wise and I finally setVol. 6 • No. 20
tled on watching the guide to discern bird location and simply rose in mute unison to shoot when he did. By the end of the Hearing Challenged Hunt, we had 12 pintails and six teal to brag about when we returned to the lodge and people who could actually hear. On yet another day, I was afield with my stepson, Chris Schophius, on his first duck hunt. All the guests had treated him like visiting royalty the night before, being a teenage first-time hunter. The ducks must have gotten the word as he was greeted with what seemed like every duck in the world. The action was nonstop and we let Chris shoot first with each decoying group. He had the time of his life and almost as much fun as the guide and I did watching him. Sitting in the front of the bateau with the ducks piled at his feet, Chris’s smile warmed us all the way back to the landing. “Have fun, Chris?” Jimmy asked him back at the boat-
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house. “You betcha,” Chris replied in Wisconsin-eze, with more enthusiasm than even Sarah Palin ever managed. And lest I be remiss, there’s the fishing at Jimmy’s, too. Catch the right day fishing the marsh cuts and you can tear up the specs and reds. On one trip down to hunt, George and I hurriedly left the lodge and headed to our favorite fishing spot. What transpired were just two casts and two redfish. George’s fish weighed 25 lbs. and mine went 28 lbs., all in one 15-minute poles-bent-franticreeling-in-of the biggest reds we ever caught. This tale appears in The Jambalaya News one day after George and I finish this year’s visit to Jimmy’s. It’ll be my 42nd year of hunting with George and my 14th year at Jim’s lodge. Both anniversaries touch my heart. Book a hunt, meet me there next year and scratch another just-have-to-make-hunt off that bucket list.
January 15, 2015 11
By Jason Machulski
Time capsules are amazing to me because most of the time, no one really knows exactly what’s inside them except for whoever has filled them. been long-time II’ve vee b eeeen a lo ong ng-t ng-t -tim ime im ime
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admirer of time capsules and always loved watching them being opened. The International Time Capsule Society estimates there are between 10,000 to 15,000 time capsules su ulees worldwide. wo w orlldw wid d And those are ar only the ar ones on o n that have been registered. b be A lot of them have been lost h and an forgotten. an Last month, workers rew pairing a leak p at at the Massachusetts s sa State House in S St Boston uncovB ered eerr a time capsule origica ca nally placed in n the tth h building’s cornerstone c co in n 1795. It
capsule. Local histories, took conservators from the photographs, retail prodBoston Museum of Fine ucts, newspapers, handArts nearly seven hours to written remove the b box ox ffrom ox ro om it itss w r it wr ittteen stories, sstto orr iiees, e s,, membership m lists, encasing. lliis and bylaws and What an by by constitutions amazing find nd d co co are of important ntt n aarr often included, historical sigiigg in in as nificance to o as well as samples of the world. sa sa locally made Anyone lo lo products or can make a pr pr crafts and time capsule; lee ; cr cr Above: Paul Revere’s 1795 time capsule other items it’s not only nlly o ot t the he h e r Below: A Boston Daily newspaper found inside that for major tth h reflect companies, s, s, f l e the fl times. or newly tim ti Really, constructed ed Re Re the buildtth h sky’s the ings. Timee th h limit. Try capsules Tr to fill can comfill your fi capsule memoratee ca ca with the birth of of a child, chi h ild i ld l d, a marmarma rwiith w h items ite tems mss that m t ha h t are are “Open ar “O O riage, a special date, or even Date Related.” In other words, they will still be in something as simple as just s the same condition as when because. b they were put in. How can you make one Selecting an open date at a home? Let’s start with the is up to you. It can be meaning of the word “time m anywhere from one year to capsule.” It’s defined as a c 10,000 years. You can also container filled with things c can make several, such as a from the present that is f five-year, a 10-year, etc. meant to be opened somem There are many ways to time in the future. t make the capsule. Be creaNow that we know what tive. It can be a cardboard it i is, lets get down to some box, a box made from conbasics. First, there are no b rules for what goes in a time crete or steel, or maybe even r Vol. 6 • No. 20
some PVC pipe. It can be buried, hidden in a house or put just about anywhere. Make sure you keep a record of where it is so that you or a loved one can find it. The top 10 items that I would put in a capsule would be: • a letter stating who I am and what I think my life will, or the future would will, on the open date • a newspaper • current year coins and money • a current year toy or two • photos • stamps • a handmade creation • a book • sealed unread letters from my children, and • a business card. Of course, there are many other things of historical significance that you can include if you want this to be opened in the distant future ; but I would like to open mine while I can enjoy the contents with my family and friends. A quick Internet search (how to make your own time capsule) will open up amazing do-it-yourself ideas. Why wait? Start one today! Make one with family, friends, a group of people, or make one for every important date. There is really no wrong way to make one and it will be an enjoyable experience. Happy New Year from the Bayou Picker! 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/BayouPickers/160113244006075. Vol. 6 • No. 20
Tortilla Soup Tortilla soup originated in Mexico. Spanish explorer Hernando Cortez and his conquistadors discovered the Aztecs making and eating flat corn breads that the Spanish named “tortillas” in 1519. The Spaniards used tortillas and other native Mexican ingredients to create tortilla soup, also known as sopa Azteca.
Ingredients 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin About 1 ¼ teaspoons chili powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 cup diced onion 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper 3 cloves garlic, minced One 10-ounce can diced tomatoes and green chiles, such as Rotel 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth 4 cups hot water 3 tablespoons tomato paste Two 15-ounce cans black beans, drained 3 tablespoons cornmeal 5 small corn tortillas
20 minutes. Remove it from the oven. Cut the chicken into cubes and set aside. Next, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Throw in the onions, green and red bell peppers and garlic. Throw in a tablespoon of the spice mixture used to season the chicken. Add a little extra chili powder (about 1/4 teaspoon) for heat. Stir to cook the vegetables until they begin to turn golden brown, about five minutes. Add the cubed chicken and diced tomatoes, juice and all. Add the chicken broth, hot water and tomato paste. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Add the drained black beans. Next, mix together the cornmeal with 1/2 cup water. Add the mixture to the pot, and then simmer the soup for 10 to 15 minutes. Give it a taste and add salt or seasonings as needed; be sure to not under-salt it! Cut the tortillas into uniform two- to three-inch strips. Stir most of them into the soup just before serving. This is what makes tortilla soup tortilla soup! Turn off the heat and get ready to serve it up. Ladle the soup into a bowl, then add avocado, red onion, sour cream, cilantro and extra tortilla strips to the top. The more toppings on tortilla soup, the merrier. Enjoy!
Directions Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Start by mixing together the cumin, one teaspoon of the chili powder, the garlic powder and salt. Drizzle the chicken breasts with one tablespoon of the olive oil. Then sprinkle with one teaspoon of the spice mixture. Set the rest of the spice mixture aside. Bake until the chicken is cooked all the way through, 15 to January 15, 2015 13
The Joys of Reading Is there any place on earth more magical than a library? Step into a library and you have a ticket to go anywhere, learn anything, and be anyone. How exciting is that? One of my earliest memories is of my mom reading to me and I’ve been an avid reader from the time I could first read. Books can take you places that you might not otherwise go, and getting lost in a book is an utterly delicious feeling unlike anything else. Consider these beautiful words from Strickland Gillilan: “I had a mother who read to me; sagas of pirates who scoured the sea, cutlasses clenched in their yellow teeth, ‘Blackbirds’ stowed in the hold beneath. I had a mother who read me lays of ancient and gallant and golden days; stories of Marmion and Ivanhoe, which everybody has a right to know. I had a mother 14 January 15, 2015
who read me tales of Gelert the hound of the hills of Wales. True to his trust till his tragic death, faithfulness blent with his final breath. I had a mother who read me the things that wholesome life to the boy heart brings - stories that stir with an upward touch, oh, that each mother of boys were such! You may have tangible wealth untold; caskets of jewels and coffers of gold. Richer than I you can never be - I had a mother who read to me.” But what if you have a child who doesn’t like books as much as you do? Here are a few tips for getting your child to fall in love with books and reading. Helping your children enjoy reading is truly one of the most important things you can do as a parent and it’s worth the investment of your time and energy. • One of the most effective ways to encourage your
children to love books is to simply read aloud to them. The earlier you start the better. • Make your reading time a very special time where you hold your kids or have them sit close to you and share the pleasure of a story without the distractions of TV or phones. • If your children are old enough and already know how to read, encourage them to read to you sometimes. A shared enjoyment of books will continue to strengthen your children’s interest and appreciation of reading. • Bring them to the library often and instead of using your library card, get them their own! It’s a great teachable moment, it’s fun and it also teaches them some responsibility because they have to keep up with their cards. • When they have a great report card or do something
worthy of praise, instead of buying them a toy or a treat, take them to the bookstore and let them get a new book to add to their bookshelves at home. • One thing I did recently that was a big hit with my daughter was creating a reading corner in her room. It was easy to do and took me less than an hour. I put a beanbag chair in a corner, moved some bookshelves into her room and put in all of her books, added a lamp nearby, a small rug, and made it a cozy, wonderful place for her to hang out and enjoy her books. • Simply having books, magazines, and newspapers in your home will help children see them as part of daily life. When they see you read or comment on a story it can spark their interest, too. • How you handle books will eventually influence how your kids treat them. Vol. 6 • No. 20
If they see that you enjoy reading and that you treat books as the treasures that they are, it is likely that they will do the same. My kids love all kinds of books and my son especially loves science and sports. He has developed an interest in rocks, and when he stepped up at the library counter recently and mentioned this to one of the librarians, she immediately led him to a section that had lots of books about rocks. My daughter enjoys reading anything about cheerleading, dance, singing, and acting. She typically gravitates to books with pink covers because pink is her favorite color. When I was a child, I read the Nancy Drew books and just about anything else I could get my hands
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on, including some books my mom gave me that were from her childhood: the Bobbsey Twins books. The Bobbsey Twins are two sets of twins that go on wild adventures and solve intriguing mysteries. I read them over and over again when I was around 8 or 9 and I can’t wait to pass these gems down to my daughter. Even though I’ve always been a voracious reader, I don’t have as much time to read as I wish I did due to the demands of raising a family, work, and other daily challenges. But I always have a stack of books next to my bed and typically read a little before bedtime every night. I love biographies and I’m looking forward to reading ones soon on Edna St. Vincent Millay and Elizabeth Taylor. My interests are
varied and I enjoy just about anything, whether it’s nonfiction or fiction. I hope that all of you are readers and if you have children, I hope that you are bringing them to libraries and bookstores. If you haven’t been doing that, what better way to start off the New Year than by making a resolution to bring
more books into your lives? Happy reading! 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.
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Influenza (“the flu”) is more dangerous than the common cold for children. Each year, many children get sick with seasonal influenza; some of those illnesses result in death. • Children commonly need medical care because of influenza, especially before they turn five years old. • Severe influenza complications are most common in children younger than two years old. • Children with chronic health problems like asthma, diabetes and disorders of the brain or nervous system are at especially high risk of developing serious flu complications. • Each year, an average of 20,000 children under the age of five are hospitalized because of influenza complications.
• Flu seasons vary in severity, however some children die from flu each year. During the 2013-2014 influenza season, more than 100 flu-related pediatric deaths were reported. The single best way to protect your children from the flu is to get them vaccinated each year. The seasonal flu vaccine protects against the influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming season. Traditional flu vaccines (called trivalent vaccines) are made to protect against three flu viruses; an influenza A (H1N1) virus, an influenza A (H3N2) virus, and an influenza B virus. In addition, there are flu vaccines made to protect against four flu viruses (called “quadrivalent” vaccines). These vaccines protect
LC Memorial Honors St. John Elementary Artists Lake Charles Memorial Hospital recently honored students who participated in the Young at Art Program in November/ December. The program, which spotlights artwork from a different local elementary school each month, was designed to make a positive impact on hospital patients, employees, and the young artists themselves. The display featured artwork by students from St. John Elementary. A panel of Memorial volunteers recognized fourth graders Emily Miller, Bryce Bryce Duplantis and Duplantis Kayli Cruz with a gift card.
16 January 15, 2015
against the same three viruses as the trivalent vaccine and an additional B virus.
Flu Vaccines Available for Children The following trivalent flu vaccines are available: • Standard dose trivalent shots that are manufactured using virus grown in eggs. These are approved for people ages six months and older. There are different brands of this type of vaccine, and each is approved for different ages. The following quadrivalent flu vaccines are available: • a standard dose quadrivalent shot. One brand is approved for people six months and older while others are approved for those three years and older.
Kayli Cruz
Emily Miller
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In addition, there is a standard dose quadrivalent nasal spray approved for healthy, non-pregnant people two through 49 years of age (recommended preferentially for healthy children two to eight years old when immediately available and there are no contraindications or precautions). Recent studies suggest that the nasal spray flu vaccine may work better than the flu shot in younger children. However, if the nasal spray vaccine is not immediately available and the flu shot is, children two years through eight years old should get the flu shot. Don’t delay vaccination to find the nasal spray flu vaccine.
Children Should be Vaccinated Every Flu Season Children should be vaccinated every flu season for the best protection against
flu. For children who will need two doses of flu vaccine, the first dose should be given as early in the season as possible. For other children, it is good practice to get them vaccinated soon after flu vaccine becomes available, ideally by October. However, getting vaccinated even later can be protective, as long as flu viruses are circulating. While seasonal influenza outbreaks can happen as early as October, most of the time influenza activity peaks in January or later. Since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body that protect against influenza virus infection, it is best that people get vaccinated so they are protected before influenza begins spreading in their community. Source: Centers for Disease Control
Free Cooking Demonstration at WCCH Jan. 20 On Tuesday, January 20, at 11 a.m., West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will provide a free cooking demonstration at Dynamic Dimensions Fitness Center in Sulphur for individuals looking for ideas for quick and healthy dishes. The class will last approximately 45 minutes, and will cover healthy meal planning and provide step-by-step tactics to make cooking easy. This cooking demonstration is free and open to the public. For more information, or to sign up for a class, call (337) 527-4261. Vol. 6 • No. 20
January 15, 2015 17
By Lauren Abate de Albuquerque What better time to start working on a new you than at the beginning of a new year? Jackie Tabor, owner of ROLL Indoor Cycling on Ryan St. in Lake Charles, is a fitness enthusiast. And enthusiastic she is. She’s a powerhouse in a petite and trim package, bursting with energy. “I’ve run a couple half-marathons and of course, several 5ks. I have strength trained in several gyms with several personal trainers. I’ve done every diet and finally lost 25 pounds when I decided I wanted to do what’s good and right for my body, which includes a healthy diet. I am also a certified Spinning® instructor who attended the World Spinning & Sports Convention in Miami, last May.”
Tabor’s been trained by Barbara Hoots, an internationally acclaimed instructor and studio Designer as well as Scott Schlesinger, Master Spinning® Instructor in Miami and Shelly Scott, from Full Psycle Indoor Cycling in Costa Mesa, CA. “I was encouraged to attend an Indoor Cycling class in Houston by my friend and workout partner and became addicted the very first time!” she says. “Roll Indoor Cycling™ was branded and opened in August, 2014 because my husband and I wanted to create an exciting, inspiring, and effective workout for EVERY walk of life,” Tabor continues. “Indoor Cycling is sweeping across the country because it is way more than just a typical spin® class. It’s a fitness experience that includes mind, body, and spirit. Our focus is on overall well-being and quality of life.” The space is eye-catching with a surplus of lights and a sound system that will blow you away. The atmosphere is electric and exciting creating an invigorating experience for riders. The studio is dimly lit to eliminate self-consciousness and boasts a sound system designed by Porche Advanced Systems to “drop the beat” and block outside stress and negativity, which allows members to lose themselves in the music for 45 minutes.
Unique Classes The spin® classes at Roll™ are different because the studio is basically a fitness venue. In contrast to the exterior rooms, the studio is dimly lit to eliminate self-
L to R: Camille Bouillon, Shelby Burks, Jackie Tabor, Adrienne Herbert, Kendrea Terrell, Foxy, and Morgan Foreman 18 January 15, 2015
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consciousness and boasts a $30k sound system designed by Porche Advanced Systems to “drop the beat” and block outside stress and negativity, which allows members to lose themselves in the music for 45 minutes. “Really, that’s just the beginning!” Tabor says proudly. “Roll® is equipped with stateof-the-art Blade Ion Spinner® Bikes with the most advanced technology in the industry. The Roll team of instructors has been trained by the same world-class instructors as I have and would ROCK any stage at Full Psycle or WSSC in Miami.” Spivi is the performance tech that is used to track the rider’s performance and keep things a little competitive. Riders can “opt out” of competition on their accounts at roll-indoorcycling.com or they can utilize the Spivi Leaderboard to push beyond their limits and fly in to fitness. “WBX is an amazing indoor cycling experience!” Tabor says. “Riders are instructed with weights on the bike to work out their entire body! Not only are WBX classes the latest trend in fitness, they are way fun, so 45 minutes basically flies by. There is science behind the cardio-vascular workout in spinning®. WBX takes it to the next level to offer our members a safe, efficient, minimum impact-maximum effect FULL BODY workout!”
On a Mission Tabor says the mission of Roll Indoor Cycling™ is to combat the current culture of busy-ness, self-consciousness, and our overall unhealthiness. “Our bodies were made to MOVE,” she explains. “Also, thanks to the food industry, all calories are no longer created equal. We can eat HALF as much as we used to (processed foods) and still gain weight. It’s time SWLA got on the national bandwagon of fitness to take care of ourselves. With the onset of the Health App and Apple Watch, our health insurance companies will soon be giving ‘credits’ to our premiums by tracking individual fitness. Roll™ is a fun and inviting atmosphere to get in or stay in shape because we are a community designed to benefit every fitness level!” Tabor says she’s found an effective program that builds joints and muscles rather than destroys them, “and we’re having a blast in the process. We go to great lengths to ensure our classes are never boring and always promote healthy attitudes and lifestyles to our riders.” This dynamic woman says she is so excited to have a cool place to stay in shape and make better connections to the wonderful people of SWLA. “Moreover, I am truly honored to work with every member of The Roll Team to bring this new fitness ADDICTION to Lake Charles!” Don’t wait another second! Book your bike today!
ROLL Indoor Cycling 2801 Ryan St., Ste 800 Lake Charles (337) 429-5260 http://roll-indoorcycling.com Vol. 6 • No. 20
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Rodeo. It is being touted the New “Old West.” The sport of rodeo, in fact, is said to be the only sport that derived from an actual industry--ranching. As the story goes, rodeo was born in 1864 when two groups of cowboys from neighboring Colorado ranches met to settle an argument over who was the best at performing everyday ranching tasks. We can only imagine the excitement that must have filled the air during that first competition, as each rancher gathered up their respective supporters, prepared their stock and anxiously took to the dirt to compete for ultimate bragging rights. Certainly, today’s professional rodeo contestant is a bit different from his 1800’s ancestor. Care and safety standards for both the animals, as well as the competitors, have significantly improved in recent years. The modern cowboy travels not in covered wagons, but often in state-of-the-art custom rigs, or hops from one rodeo to another by commercial airline or charter plane. Cuttingedge marketing and business insight have become as crucial to the sport as roping, wrestling or riding skills. Cowboys are competing for more money than ever before, and, as with all professional sports, there are big bucks dangling out there for the top competitors in the form of sponsorships and endorsements. But the fundamentals that embodied the sport so long ago remain unchanged. Perhaps that is why modern fans are still attracted to such an old sport. Today, a cowboy’s reputation is still dependent on his or her skill with a rope or a horse, or the ability to stay aboard a bucking beast. The excitement of the bucking stock, the fierce speed of the horses and the antics of rodeo clowns are 20 January 15, 2015
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undoubtedly factors in rodeo’s appeal. But more likely, it is the romantic and iconic image of the “cowboy” himself. Rodeo, and its competitors, provide for us a window into the past. It is an age-old sport that recalls a purer form of competition. Man against man. Man against beast. Man against himself. Rodeo and its cowboys and cowgirls are living examples of Americana at its best - a rare chance to experience the thrills of a bygone era from the comfort of our modern seats. In Southwest Louisiana, late January has come to be known as “Rodeo Season.” Each year, old and young alike gather at Burton Coliseum to enjoy the Southwest District Livestock Show and Rodeo, presented by JD Bank and Ram, which is now in its 76th year. Professional rodeo competitors, including pro world champions and national finals contestants from across the nation, will vie for approximately $250,000 in prizes. In addition to the usual rodeo events, this year’s rodeo fans can expect a entertaining blast from the past as “Crazy Cajun” Rudy Burns makes a long-awaited return as barrel man and comic relief. Known for his unique personality and quick wit, Rudy is a beloved favorite of Lake Charles rodeo fans. A former partner of the legendary Lecile Harris, Burns began his career as a professional rodeo clown in 1976. He has been awarded the title of “Barrel Man of The Year” twice, and has been a runner-up for the honor four times. The title is the highest honor bestowed upon the profession by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). Alongside the “greatest show on dirt” is the annual livestock show set for February 3-7, which hosts more than 2,500 4-H and FFA exhibitors and awards more than $50,000 in scholarships. And as always, the Western Heritage Trail Riders will emerge in Lake Charles after a week-long ride on February 5. Other events include the Western Heritage Rodeo Parade, which is set for Thursday, February 5 at 4 p.m. and the McDonald’s SWD Stick Horse Rodeo set for Saturday, February 7 at 11 a.m. Rodeo performances will be 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 5 and Friday, February 6, and 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, February 7 Tickets are available at Ticketmaster online and will be available at the Burton Coliseum Box Office January 26-February 7. Discount coupons for $1 off the price of a child’s ticket and $4 off the price of an adult’s ticket are available at all Jeff Davis Bank locations after January 20. For more information and a complete schedule, please visit www.lakecharlesrodeo.com. Vol. 6 • No. 20
2015 Schedule of Events Saturday, Jan. 31
9 AM - Western Heritage Trail Ride Day 1: Riders depart Gueydan
Sunday, Feb, 1 9 AM - Western Heritage Trail Ride Day 2: Riders travel from Lake Arthur to Jennings
Monday, Feb. 2 9 AM - Western Heritage Trail Ride Day 3: Riders travel from Jennings to Welsh
Tuesday, Feb. 3 8 AM - Annual IHOP Free Pancake Breakfast: Calcasieu Parish Courthouse. The first 100 fans win a FREE rodeo ticket! 9 AM - Western Heritage Trail Ride Day 4: Riders travel from Welsh to Iowa
Wednesday, Feb. 4 8- 4 PM - Southwest District Livestock Show Begins Burton Coliseum Complex 5 PM - Rodeo Celebrity Meet & Greet Press Party Invitation Only: Autograph and photo sessions with rodeo stars and royalty.
Thursday, Feb. 5 8 AM - Goats, Swine and Beef 9 AM - Western Heritage Trail Ride Day 6: Riders en route for parade - Lake Charles 10 AM - Market Lamb Show Begins 4 PM - Rodeo Parade Line-up at LaGrange and Patrick Streets Parade travels South on Ryan Street to McNeese Stadium 7:30 PM - Rodeo Performance Burton Coliseum
Friday, Feb. 6 8 AM - Goats, Beef and Swine 9 AM - Western Heritage Trail Ride Day 7 Riders depart McNeese Stadium for Burton Coliseum 5 PM - SW District Rodeo Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Burton Coliseum 7:30 PM - Rodeo Performance
Saturday, Feb. 7 8 AM - Swine and Dairy 9 AM - Chuck Wagon Cooking Exhibit 11 AM - Stick Horse Rodeo 2 PM - Rodeo Performance/Miss Rodeo Louisiana Coronation 5 PM - Southwest District Livestock Show Awards Presentation 8 PM - Rodeo Performance www.LakeCharlesRodeo.com • www.facebook.com/swdrodeo January 15, 2015 21
Champagne Bingo Fundraiser Jan. 31 The Lake Charles Symphony announces its third annual Champagne Bingo Fundraiser at the Lake Charles Country Club, Saturday, January 31 from 11 a.m. -2:00 p.m. Guests will be invited to enjoy a glass of champagne punch or sparkling beverage
as they listen to the sounds of the Symphony’s string trio, composed of three local members of the Lake Charles Symphony Orchestra. A lunch of finger sandwiches, chicken fettuccine, and mini quiches, followed by
an assortment of petit fours will be offered. Then, grab your bingo cards and get ready for fun, as Joey Frazier takes over to call the games. Exciting prizes donated by local businesses will go to the winners of eight bingo games. Between the games, door prizes will be given out to many lucky guests. Individual tickets are $50; half tables of four may be reserved for $200; and a full table of eight may be reserved for $400. Proceeds from the Champagne Bingo are used for the Symphony’s educational and outreach programs, in which free Symphony concert tickets are provided to students K-12, concentrating on the at-risk schools.
McNeese Spring Late Registration Jan. 16-21 Students registering late for McNeese State University’s spring 2015 semester can register online or with their faculty adviser Jan. 16-21. Students must be admitted to the university prior to registration and should see an adviser to get their alternate PIN, if required, before registering or dropping by the help desk. To register, students can go online to mcneese.edu and click on the “Current Students” tab and then select Banner SelfService under Registration to begin the process. Students who late register must pay fees by 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, or all courses will be dropped. Students can go online at mcneese.edu/payment to see the Payment Policy on credit card payments and online payment changes. There is a $75 late registration fee. First-time freshmen and students who sign up for three hours or less will not be charged. For more information
on fee payment, contact the McNeese Accounting Office at 337- 475-5107. For more information, contact the McNeese Registrar’s Office at 337-475-5356. 22 January 15, 2015
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This Wide Night Jan. 15-17, 24-15 Itinerant Theatre brings This Wide Night to the Central School Arts & Humanities Center, 809 Kirby Street, Lake Charles. Performances are 7 p.m. Jan. 15, 16, 17 and 24, and one Sunday matinee at 2 p.m., Jan. 25. Tickets are $15 and $10 for students. The play explores issues of identity, community and workforce realities of once-imprisoned women who are re-entering society. Includes strong language. Purchase tickets at www.itineranttheatre.com, at the door or reserve them at (337) 4366275.
Robbie Austin: Glimmer Twins Jan. 16-Feb. 27 This exhibit will showcase new works by Lake Charles native Robbie Austin. The opening reception will be held Fri., Jan. 16 from 6-8 p.m. in the Gibson-Barham Gallery of the Imperial Calcasieu Museum and a gallery talk will be given. The exhibit will be on display until February 27. (337) 439-3797
31st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Coalition Memorial Breakfast Jan. 16 The annual Memorial Breakfast, held at Trinity Baptist Church, 1800 Country Club Rd, Lake Charles, Fri., Jan. 16, at 7:30 a.m. will honor several deserving and outstanding individuals in the community. It is open to the public and beginning at 9 a.m. will be televised live on KPLC TV.
Gospel Extravaganza Jan. 18 On Sun., Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. performers from all over Louisiana will come together for the Gospel Extravaganza held at Throne of Grace Fellowship located at 2401 6th Street, Lake Charles. Admission is free.
Parade and Family Day Jan. 19 The celebration continues on Mon., Jan. 19, with the annual parade rolling through the streets of Lake Charles at 11 a.m. with the lineup beginning at the LC Civic Center at 8:30 a.m. Don’t miss the Family Day celebration where you can enjoy live, local and national entertainers, The big Celebrity Gumbo Cook-Off Contest, and hundreds of local vendors. T-shirts, tickets and entry forms can be picked up and purchased at 305 Enterprise Blvd., Lake Charles. (337) 491-9955 ext. 17, fbbkzwa@aol.com, www.kzwafm.com
Home, Garden & Lifestyle Show Jan. 17-18 HBA of SWLA’s exclusive showcase event is the original home,
garden and lifestyle show in SWLA and the only one that is locally produced. It features the most exciting and comprehensive collection of products and services from local exhibitors. See the latest in building materials, floor treatments, appliances, new trends in decorating and much more at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Jan. 17: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Jan. 18: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission is $6. (337) 478-7893.
Abraham Lincoln Traveling Exhibit Jan. 21 “Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War,” a traveling exhibition, will open on Wed., Jan. 21 at Central Library located at 301 W. Claude Street in Lake Charles. An opening reception led by the program’s scholar, Dr. Michael Smith, Associate Professor of History at McNeese State University, will be held on Fri., Jan. 23 at 4 p.m. at the library. The exhibition examines how President Lincoln used the Constitution to confront three intertwined crises of the Civil War—the secession of Southern states, slavery and wartime civil liberties. The exhibit will run during library hours through March 6 and is free and open to the public. (337) 721-7118
Calcasieu Cinema International Jan. 23 Calcasieu Cinema International presents the film, Storm, at 7 p.m. Fri., Jan. 23, at the Central School Arts and Humanities Center in Lake Charles. This 2009 film is the winner of the Amnesty International Film Award at the Berlin Film Festival. Storm is noted for its treatment of the ongoing issues of war crimes and international justice. A guided discussion will follow the film. For more information, email cbadeaux@ mcneese.edu or jkprjs@gmail.com.
Lady of the Lake River Cruise Jan. 24 Cruise the river aboard the yacht Lady of the Lake and enjoy food, fun, dancing and music by Alvin Touchet and 3 Hour Tour! Boarding begins at 4:30 p.m. at Riverside Resort (Loggerheads) and will depart at 5. Dinner: Buffet style. Cash bar available. *Must be 21 to attend, $75 per person. Call to reserve tickets. (337) 491-6794
Step Right Up! Circus Big Top Exhibit Jan. 30 In an era spanning the early 20th century, through depression-ridden times and the Red Scare, the Big Top was a thrilling spectacle that burst into towns along the American road and railways. Explore a history fraught with intrigue and majesty and run away with the circus! Exhibit runs through March 14. 1911 Historic City Hall, 1001 Ryan Street, Lake Charles. (337) 491-9159.
Friday, January 16: Snowflake Yarn Painting Create your own abstract snowflake using yarn and paint in the ArtSpace from 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Monday, January 19: My Hopes and Dreams Join us at 11 a.m. and share your hopes and dreams for a better tomorrow. We will make a “Hopes and Dreams” mobile in the ArtSpace. Class is limited to 20 children ages 4 and up.
Friday, January 23: Playdough Snowman Build a snowman using Playdough in the ArtSpace from 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Friday, January 30: Mardi Gras Pasta Necklaces String your own Mardi Gras pasta necklaces in the ArtSpace from 3:30-4:30 p.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 January 15, 2015
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Beethoven, Buffet & Bubbly Jan. 31 Bingo Buffet to benefit the Lake Charles Symphony at the Lake Charles Country Cub on Jan. 31! Enjoy a glass of champagne punch or sparkling beverage as you listen to the sounds of the symphony’s string trio along with finger sandwiches, fettuccine, mini quiches and petit fours. Then, grab your bingo cards! Exciting prizes donated by local businesses will go to the winners of eight bingo games, and door prizes will be given out to many lucky guests. Individual tickets are $50; half tables of four are $200; full table of eight is $400. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (337) 433-1611.
Fashionably Red SLAC Benefit Jan. 31 Come to the Chateau du Calcasieu on Sat., Jan 31 for a 1950’sVintage Style Benefit sponsored by Lake City Entertainment. Doors open at 6 p.m. There will be food, drinks and live entertainment along with a silent auction and fashion show. Tickets are $20 per person. Portion of proceeds will go towards client services at the Southwest Louisiana AIDS Council. (678) 763-4532.
Shrek Jr. The Musical Jan. 31-Feb. 1 The LaGrange Choral and Theater Department are back again with their production of Shrek Jr. The Musical at LaGrange High School. Come and be transformed into a world of Fairytale Creatures and Smelly Ogres! $5 General Admission Tickets! Sat., Jan, 31 @ 2 & 7 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 1 at 2 p.m. (337) 217-4960.
Picasso at the Lapin Agile Feb. 4-8 McNeese State University’s Department of Performing Arts presents Picasso at the Lapin Agile, which features the characters of Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso, who meet at a bar called the Lapin Agile (Nimble Rabbit). Both men are on the verge of an amazing idea (Einstein will publish his special theory of relativity in 1905 and Picasso will paint Les Demoiselles d’Avignon in 1907) where they have a lengthy debate about the value of genius and talent while interacting with a host of other characters. Performances are Feb. 4-8 at 7:30 p.m. (337) 475-5000.
Stellar Beans Annual Patrons’ Art Show Feb. 6-28 Stellar Beans presents the third annual Patrons’ Art Show for friends and patrons who have not had an art show of their own before. Artists’ reception Feb. 6. 319 Broad Street, Lake Charles. (337) 564 5739; stellarbeans@yahoo.com.
Valentine’s Cruise Feb. 14 Cruise the river aboard the Lady of the Lake and enjoy food, fun, dancing and music by JC Melancon and the Bayou Band! Cruise will depart from Riverside Resort (Loggerheads) and runs from 6-9 p.m. Cash bar available. Menu: (buffet style) ribeye steak, potatoes au gratin, fried okra, crab-stuffed mushrooms, shrimp cocktail, garden salad, bread roll, fruits and cheeses, hors d’oeuvres, desserts. Tickets are $100 per person. (337) 491-6794 Must be 21 to attend.
Winter Beer Festival Feb. 21 The inaugural Louisiana Winter Beer Festival will be held 1-4 p.m. at the Calcasieu Marine Bank Building and will feature over 50 craft beers, ciders, and meads from Louisiana and other American Craft Breweries as well as local food selections, prizes, a home-brew competition, and live music. Regular admission is $40, VIP admission is $80. Tickets Available at: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/2015-louisiana-winter-beerfestival-tickets-14935005002?aff=efbevent. Vol. 6 • No. 20
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Gueydan Mardi Gras Run Jan. 24 Annual run sponsored by Le Krewe de la Originals et Les Enfants and the Duck Festival Association features an early morning chicken run beginning at 9 a.m., lunch, live music, an auction and a dance. Parade begins at 3 p.m. Dance starts at 5 p.m. Downtown Gueydan (337) 789-6134.
Vinton Mardi Gras Celebration and Gumbo Cook-off Feb. 7 Vinton will usher in the Mardi Gras season beginning with the Knights of Columbus hosting a gumbo cook-off at 10 a.m. and a parade at 2 p.m. The parade will run through downtown Vinton and end at the Knights of Columbus Hall where the gumbo judging will begin at 3 p.m. (337) 589-7453.
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City of Sulphur Mardi Gras Parade Feb. 7 Jumping into the Mardi Gras spirit, the City of Sulphur’s Mardi Gras Parade will be held on Sat., Feb. 7, at 2 p.m. The parade will consist of Mardi Gras Krewes, merchants, individuals, groups and organizations, and the route will be from Cypress Street through the S-Curve to South Huntington Street. (337) 527-4500 or mayorsoffice@sulphur.org.
Mardi Gras in Lake Arthur Feb. 7 Mardi Gras run begins at 9 a.m. in the park with chicken throws along the run. Bring your lunch. Parade starts at 2:30 p.m. Chicken throw after the parade for all ages. (337) 368-6948.
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Krewe of the Golden Years Feb. 9 Calcasieu Council on Aging presents the Krewe of the Golden Year’s 20th Annual Mardi Gras Ball on Mon., Feb. 9, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum. Wear a mask and dress in your favorite Mardi Gras attire. After a continental breakfast, enjoy an entourage of Kings and Queens representing Calcasieu Parish Nursing Homes, Senior Living facilities and the Krewe of Krewes. Live entertainment will be provided by Louisiana Scramble and will be followed by lunch. Free for seniors 60 and over who must be residents of Calcasieu Parish. (337) 474-2583.
Lake Charles Merchants Parade Feb. 13 Local business leaders and social organizations take to the streets on festive Mardi Gras floats from the Lake Charles Civic Center to Ryan Street, ending at Sale Road. Begins at 7 p.m. (337) 661-3361.
Carlyss Mardi Gras Trail Ride Feb. 14 The Carlyss Mardi Gras Trail Ride day of festivities and chicken runs starts and ends at the West Cal Arena in Sulphur. Floats and horses are welcome. The line up begins at 6 a.m., and the parade will start at 8 a.m., with a $5 admission fee for trail riders. (337) 287-5919.
Gumbo Cook-off Feb. 14 The public tastes from every pot of chicken and sausage, seafood or wild game gumbo in a hot contest of more than 50 teams on Sat., Feb. 14, at the Lake Charles Civic Center Exhibition Hall from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Amateur and professional teams will stir up hundreds of gallons of rich, spicy gumbo. Gumbo contestants begin cooking at 7:30 a.m., and judging is at 11:30 a.m., with gumbo served immediately afterward until 1:30 p.m. In addition to scrumptious food, there will be festive music. Admission is $5, and you can sample from all the different gumbo pots. (337) 4757393
Mardi Gras in Jennings Feb. 14 Parade and Festival in Jennings. Music, shopping, food and fun. 10th annual Squeezebox Shootout Cajun Accordion Championship Live music at Founder’s Park 3-4:30 p.m. Parade begins at 4:30 p.m. ; T-Broussard and the Zydeco Steppers performs at 5:30. (337) 821-5532
Krewe of Barkus Parade Feb. 14 A parade of costumed pets and their owners makes for a whimsical, carnival atmosphere. The title of “Mystical Dog” is given to
Mardi Gras Shoebox Float Contest Call for Entries! Registration deadline January 20 The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau is inviting the community to bedazzle their shoeboxes to usher in the Mardi Gras season. Shoebox floats represent a seasonal piece of Louisiana, and every family member can join in the creative fun and submit an entry into the Shoebox Float Contest. Simply decorate a traditional cardboard shoebox with items such as glitter, glue, feathers, beads, sequins and more. There are school group divisions as well as divisions for amateurs ranging from child to adult, with an additional category for professionals, adult civic groups, and organizations. The deadline for registerVol. 6 • No. 20
ing is January 20. Floats will be received at the bureau’s Welcome Center, 1205 N. Lakeshore Drive in Lake Charles on Friday, January 30, from 3-4:30 p.m. Judging will take place on Saturday, Jan. 31 with the awards ceremony at noon. Shoebox floats will remain on display at the bureau through February 19 The People’s Choice Award will be presented on that day at 10 a.m. For a list of prizes, registration form and more details on the contest, visit www.visitlakecharles.org/shoebox or contact Cindy Johnson with the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau at (337) 502-4351 or cjohnson@visitlakecharles. org. January 15, 2015 27
the most strikingly costumed participant. This daytime parade attracts pet-lovers and families. Entry fee applies. Starts at 3 p.m. at 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles. (337) 439-3300
Krewe of Omega Parade Feb. 14 The Krewe of Omega Mardi Gras parade will be held in downtown Lake Charles at 2 p.m. The krewe was formed to bring Mardi Gras activities to the black community. To this day, it is the only Southwest Louisiana krewe to hold its own parade. The parade is held each year on the Saturday prior to Mardi Gras.
Krewe of Cosmos Presentation Feb. 14 The oldest Krewe in the area presents their royal court in style with skits, songs and more. Don’t miss this glittering Mardi Gras show at Sulphur High School, 100 Sycamore Street, Sulphur, starting at 6:30 p.m.
Krewe of Illusions Presentation Feb. 14 Celebrate Mardi Gras with the 25th annual presentation of the Krewe of Illusions. Tickets are $30 orchestra, formal attire required. $18 balcony reserved seating and $15 standard balcony seating, casual attire. Begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Rosa Hart Theatre. (337) 436-9588.
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Children’s Day Feb. 15 Children’s Day, a free event open to children ages 3 to 11, combines Mardi Gras fun with culture, music and learning on Sun., Feb. 15, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center Exhibition Hall. Includes exhibitions of performing arts, technology and science, safety and health, and arts and crafts-all interactive and hands-on. (337) 436-9588.
Children’s Day Parade Feb. 15 A purple, green and gold parade for the young and young at heart. Goes from downtown Ryan St. to Sale Rd. in Lake Charles; begins at 3 p.m.
Taste de la Louisiane Feb. 15 All-you-can-eat traditional Louisiana cuisine for a $7 admission fee. Taste all the deliciousness Mardi Gras has to offer! 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., LC Civic Center (337) 436-9588
Lighted Boat Parade Feb. 15 Be dazzled by the glowing boat parade on shimmering Lake Charles. Begins at 7 p.m. on the Lakefront Promenade.
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Mardi Gras Royal Gala Feb. 16 The Cinderella night of Mardi Gras manifests on Lundi Gras, Mon., Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. with a lavish promenade of more than 60 krewes’ royalty in extravagant, glittering costumes before thousands of residents and visitors at the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum. Begins at 7 p.m., $5 in advance, $6 at the door, children 5 and under are free. (337) 244-1466.
Catch a chicken at the 36th annual Mardi Gras Run on Tues., Feb. 17 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 503 E Highway 90, in Iowa. Doors open at 8 a.m., the Mardi Gras floats start lining up at 9 a.m. and the parade rolls at 10 a.m. The parade goes west on Hwy 90 stopping at local businesses and through the neighborhoods with the horses following behind. The captain blows his whistle at participating homes for the crews to get down and
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Motor Gras Parade Feb. 17 Downtown-Midtown Lake Charles. Hot rods, classics and motorcycles. Engines start at 11 a.m.!
Iowa Chicken Run Feb. 17
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dance to Zydeco music. If the families approve, they donate ingredients to the gumbo, and a chicken is thrown into the air. The ingredients are then put into a pot with the chickens, and gumbo is served to the riders while the children play from 2-4 p.m. The chicken run concludes with a Zydeco dance. Admission is $10 at the door for adults and $5 for children.
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Krewe of Krewes Parade Feb. 17 Hundreds of elaborate krewe floats, costumes, beads and more wind through the city in the culmination of the Fat Tuesday celebration in downtown-midtown Lake Charles. Starts at 5 p.m. Catch some beads and laissez les bon temps rouler! (337) 4369588.
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The 2015 Mardi Gras Queens’ Pageant was held recently at the Rosa Hart Theater in Lake Charles. The queens will reign over the 2015 Mardi Gras festivities in Lake Charles and be presented at parades and events. Congratulations, ladies!
2015 Tiny Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA - Tatum Bridges 2015 Petite Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA - Komora Danielle Ceasar 2015 Little Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA - Whitney Noelle Brevelle 2015 Deb Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA - Madalyn Grayce Gordon 2015 Teen Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA - Ava Marie Mudd 2015 Junior Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA - Shelby Lynn Perry 2015 Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA - Alyssa Ceasar
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Into the Woods (Disney, 2014) more tedium than magic. Into the Woods is the In Sondheim’s hands, the movie version of the cel“Woods” becomes a metaebrated musical by Stephen Sondheim. It tells a mixed-up phor for the dark side of life. A witch sends a childless story about some familiar fairy tale characters and their young baker and his wife there on a quest to obtain adventures into the darkness a white cow (think beanof the woods. stalks), a red cape (think big Sondheim is a fantasbad wolf ), a braid of golden tic composer and when he hair (think Rapunzel), and writes songs they are magia golden slipper (think Cincal. His moralizing can be derella). With these items the obscure and tedious. Thanks witch will unlock the spell to Disney, which insisted that keeps her a hag and the on softening the playfulness baker’s wife barren. and bawdiness of the origiBut in this mash-up, Cinnal, Into the Woods contains
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derella is indecisive about her Prince Charming, Red Riding Hood is a glutton who eats most of Grandma’s goodies, Jack is a lazy boy and pilferer who doesn’t want to sell his friend and cow, and Rapunzel is the witch’s adopted daughter, kept locked in her tower by the witch herself. Prince Charming is an insincere rake, (“I was raised to be charming, not sincere,”) and the witch is Meryl Streep. As one character says, anything can happen in the Woods, and happen it does. Although the fairy tales don’t go exactly as we’ve learned them, somehow everyone seems to live happily ever after at the end of the first act. But there are two acts, and in the second one all hell breaks loose. What was once amusing turns dark as the fairy tales are turned upside-down. The Giant’s wife comes looking for her husband’s murderer, the Baker’s wife is seduced by Prince Charming and so on. We find the heroes are not exactly villains but are still quite fallible. The villains are as much victims as the
heroes, and it’s all a glorious mess. Which is exactly the point Sondheim makes: Life is a mess, full of hard decisions and bad choices. Although Into the Woods lacks humor and the watereddown satire weakens the message, it still has the glorious music. Thank God for the music. And the actors. Meryl Streep as the Witch amazingly keeps the show going with her talent in music and drama. This woman can sing and act all at once, transforming herself completely and repeatedly during the movie. The baker’s wife is played by Emily Blunt (The Devil Wears Prada), who manages to be wholesome and alluring at the same time. Chris Pine (Star Trek) is a comedic Prince Charming with a personality as shallow as his hair is tall. A surprising Tracey Ullman (I Love you to Death) sings and parents with great boldness as Jack’s greedy mother. Flaky Cinderella is played by Anna Kendrick (Pitch Perfect) and embodies the confusion, which Sondheim wants us to feel when faced with choices between good and evil. As all amorality plays tend to do, Into the Woods leaves us feeling somewhat empty, even as the last number, sung by no one to no one but the Woods, warns us that “Children Will Listen” when we moralize, so we’d better get it right. But those songs. And those actors. As the credits rolled, we saw them again in their roles and I left the theater with a wish: to see the whole thing all over again. Into the Woods is rated PG, for philosophical themes, lighthearted amputation of a toe and Giant Killing. Small children may get scared, but everyone else will want to sing along. Enjoy! Vol. 6 • No. 20
Frigid air is predicted for Southwest Louisiana and the American Red Cross has steps people can take to stay safe during this hazardous weather. The biggest disaster threat to families isn’t floods or hurricanes; it’s fire. Last year, in Southwest Louisiana the Red Cross responded to more than 200 fires. “This extreme cold can be dangerous but there are ways to combat it,” said Brian Burton Bobbi Zaunbrecher, Chapter Executive for The American Red Cross of Southwest Louisiana “We want everyone to know how to safely ride out these winter conditions.” Here are ten ways to stay safe during this latest round of cold temperatures: 1. Wear layers of lightweight clothing to stay warm. Gloves and a hat will help prevent losing body heat. 2. Know the signs of hypothermia - confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering. If someone has these symptoms, they should get immediate medical attention. 3. Bring the pets indoors. If that’s not possible, make sure they have enough shelter to keep them warm and that they can get to unfrozen water. 4. Avoid frozen pipes - run water, even at a trickle, to help prevent them from freezing. Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night to help avoid freezing pipes. 5. Install smoke alarms on every level of the home and check them monthly by pressing the test button. 6. Create a fire escape plan identifying two escape routes from every room of the home and a place a short distance outside of the home where family members can meet after escaping. 7. Do not use a stove or oven to heat the home. 8. Space heaters should sit on a level, hard surface and anything flammable should be kept at least three feet away. 9. If using a fireplace, use a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs. 10. Turn off space heaters and make sure fireplace embers are out before leaving the room or going to bed. The Red Cross wants to help you get prepared. Visit redcross.org/homefires to learn more. Vol. 6 • No. 20
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Visiting Ancient Lands One of the things I love most about books is that they can take the reader off to other worlds. These two novels let you walk with people who lived in ancient times. I Am Livia by Phyllis T. Smith is the fictional memoir of Livia Drusilla, wife of Augustus Caesar. She recounts her early years, from young adulthood to becoming the wife of Rome’s “First Citizen.” If you’ve read I, Claudius by Robert Graves, this is sort of a prequel to that. I, Claudius was dramatized on “Masterpiece Theater” on PBS and was one of my all-time favorites. It purported to be the story of Rome’s Emperor Claudius, who followed Caligula and preceded Nero. Viewers loved to hate Claudius’ infamous grandmother, Livia, the narrator of this book. Livia was known as “The Poisoner” for her alleged part in dispatching anyone in the way of her son’s ascension to the pinnacle of Roman government. (He would become the Emperor Tiberius.) But this author looks on her in a much more benevolent way, sure that Livia never poisoned anybody and was probably misunderstood because she was an intelligent and powerful woman 32 January 15, 2015
and, therefore, in those times, untrustworthy. In fact, Smith makes her pretty darned likable. The novel starts when 14-yearold Livia overhears her father and his colleagues plotting to kill Julius Caesar, supreme ruler of Rome. She becomes her father’s confidante and learns much from him about politics. “He had always shared much more of his mind with me than might have been expected with a girl child. He would speak about distant wars and kingdoms, and I would see the farthest reaches of the empire through his eyes. Or he would tell me his assessment of one public figure or another,” she tells the reader. After Caesar’s assassination, Livia’s father forces her into an arranged marriage to a man more than twice her age. Caesar’s adopted heir, Octavianus, only 18 years old, is now the leader of Rome. When he and Livia meet, it’s practically love at first sight. Well, not soppy love; it’s more appreciation at first sight. He likes the way she talks and he senses her wisdom. Livia makes the best of her marriage for several years, but eventually she and Octavianus are married to each other. (He will later become known as Augus-
tus.) In fact, she marries him right after her divorce, while she’s still carrying her first husband’s child. The politics speak to today: “The senators were once men who wished to serve the common good. I knew that the government had become corrupt, that over the last hundred years rich and powerful men had resorted to outright violence to subvert the people’s will, that the Senate had become a narrow, despised oligarchy,” says Livia. The history is interesting. These are years of violence in the arena, and it’s the time of Marc Antony and Cleopatra. Antony is married to the sister of Octavianus, and he despises Antony for flaunting his affair with the Egyptian queen. The bad feelings between the two men eventually turn to civil war. It’s a very nice book, and I enjoyed it thoroughly. It’s a love story — but not a romance or a soap opera — and breathes life into the character of a Vol. 6 • No. 20
strong, independent woman who really did have a huge influence on Roman politics. I find it hard to believe it’s Smith’s first novel. But I still prefer to think of Livia as “The Poisoner”! Desert God was written by Wilbur Smith, whom Stephen King calls the “best historical novelist.” The book is narrated by Taita, an Egyptian eunuch who was once a slave and has risen to become an adviser to Pharaoh Tamose and will eventually become a nobleman. Taita is quite a character. In fact, Smith introduced him in a previous book, River God, also set in Egypt. Taita is a brilliant military leader, and he takes us through his own shrewd machinations of stealing Minoan silver and bringing it back to Egypt. The Hyksos are Egypt’s enemy. They have taken over the Nile Delta region and have made southern Egypt a landlocked country. “I am not in any way mindlessly prejudiced against them,” Taita tells us. “However, I do have every reason to loathe them with a deep and bitter hatred. They are thieves and bandits; every one of them, with no exception whatsoever. They delight in cruelty and torture. Their coarse and guttural language offends the ears of civilized men. They worship Seth who is the foulest of all the gods. They Vol. 6 • No. 20
have stolen our land from us, and enslaved our people. But I am not a bigot.” Whoa. They sound like Klingons, don’t they? And no, he’s not a bigot. Not much: “My Egyptians are a handsome people with lively and intelligent faces, high foreheads, large widely spaced eyes, and finely etched features. In short, one is usually able to tell at a glance that they are a superior race,” he says. Taita likes to brag a bit. “I am different from most others. I hesitate to suggest that I am in any way superior. I think it is sufficient to point out that I am both an expert horseman, and a strong and tireless swimmer.” He’s also good at languages, diplomacy, and planning ingenious war maneuvers. And he really doesn’t hesitate to point these out. Yeah, he pretty much brags most of the time. Taita takes the Egyptian royal princesses on a long and harrowing journey in order to save his beloved Egypt. The plot includes battles, adventure and romance, in the desert and on the sea. The way he maneuvers Hyksos and Crete to hate each other, in order to bring Crete to Egypt’s side against Hyksos, is very clever. I don’t think his silver theft would have been possible, but it makes a good story! Adult situations. Copyright © 2014 by Mary Louise Ruehr. January 15, 2015 33
Thursday, Jan. 15 Julie Williams 6 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Karaoke Night 9 p.m @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., Lake Charles
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
DJ San-D 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Leroy Thomas and the Zydeco Runners
Julie Williams 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Mark Henry, piano 9 p.m.- midnight @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC
7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Tom Brandow 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, Lake Charles
Stoopkids 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., Lake Charles
Friday, Jan. 16
Saenz of the Time 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC ISIS 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Stellar Beans Presents Third Annual Patrons’ Art Show
Stellar Beans presents their third annual art show for their friends and patrons who have not had an art show of their own before. It is a great opportunity for beginning artists to get their work out there to be seen in public! Due to the great response they’ve had in the past, each artist will be limited to five pieces. The art can be any format of visual art that can be displayed at Stellar Beans. Your art must be display ready. Paintings and drawings must be able to be hung on the wall on a nail. Frames are preferred. The art can be sold, but it is not required. You must price your own art. Art must be brought to Stellar Beans and they will have an artist agreement for you to sign before you leave your art with them. Please create a tag, business card size, to be displayed with your art, including your name, the name of the piece, and the format, and price if applicable. Please arrange to drop off your art be34 January 15, 2015
tween January 31 at 1 p.m. and February 2 at 3 p.m. The “Artist Reception” for all artists in this show, their friends and family, and public will be Friday, February 6. It is the responsibility of all artists to pick up their art on February, 28. We will not call artists to remind them to pick up their art. Questions: Contact Danita Noland at Stellar Beans or email stellarbeans@yahoo. com.
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Drag Bash
Brother Virginia
Sunday, Jan. 18
11 p.m @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., Lake Charles
9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan St, LC
Disco Costume Party: DJ/Karaoke
Bag of Donuts 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
DJ San-D 11 p.m. @ Jack After DarkL’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Saturday, Jan. 17 Julie Williams 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC JC Melancon 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, Lake Charles DJ Music 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC
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9-30 p.m. - 1-30 a.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC
DJ San-D 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Two for Tuesday on Everything! 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Wednesday, Jan. 21 Monday, Jan. 19
Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., Lake Charles
Karaoke Night 7 p.m. - Midnight @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC
Karaoke Night 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G, LC
Tuesday, Jan. 20 Jazz Night with Mickey Smith 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, Lake Charles
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
Cajun Night with Chris Miller & Bayou Roots 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, Lake Charles
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William Christian, sax 8 – 11 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., Lake Charles Talent Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC DJ Night 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Karaoke 9 p.m. @ Cooler’s Ice House 3622 Ryan St., LC
Thursday, Jan. 22 Kay Miller and Aaron Horne 6 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Mark Reeves & Twisted X 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., Lake Charles
New Year, New Events! With a new year comes new opportunity and I project that 2015 will be full of them. I hope you make the most of every opportunity to better not only yourself, but also those around you, particularly those in need. One thing I can promise you is that there will be plenty of events that you can attend at no cost. I encourage you to mark down the events that I mention in every column, along with others you come across in The Jambalaya News and beyond. Side note: Thanks so much to Lauren, our awesome editor for allowing me to over-share during the first “Lake City Beat” of the New Year. This year, I want to see you at local 36 January 15, 2015
DJ CaGe 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Friday, Jan. 23 Kay Miller and Aaron Horne 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Reed Planchard 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, Lake Charles
events like never before. Lake Charles is made up of many distinct and unique residents, visitors and those who magically appear, unsure of how they ended up here. My goal for 2015 is for you to look at our city in a positive light and publicly praise the greatness we have to offer. While there are plenty of things we can all wish were better, there is just as much if not more here that you can be proud of. Please allow me to elaborate. I am honored to wake up with some of you each weekday morning as you begin your day via 88.3 KBYS and online at kbys. fm. Presenting a morning show comes with much responsibility. I strive to not only be positive and as slightly annoying as humanly possible, but also informative. I utilize this platform to show off the many beautiful non-profit organizations that call Southwest Louisiana home, along with local, regional and national guests that include musical talent. What matters most to me is that I channel enough positivity so that you can look out your window as you drive throughout our area to see what I see. Of course, we could greatly benefit from improvements and we are most definitely a work in progress, but I assure you that progress is being made. The problem that I have identified after sitting in numerous meetings with some of the most important decision-makers in our area, chatting Vol. 6 • No. 20
Danny O’Flaherty: Songs & Stories 7 p.m. @ Stellar Beans Coffee House 319 Broad St., Lake Charles
Josephine 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
At Fault 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Ryan Bunch 9 p.m.- midnight @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC Dance Night 9 p.m. – 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., Lake Charles Brother Edge & Graham Wilkinson Duo 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., Lake Charles DJ CaGe 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
with people I come in contact with throughout my day and those who post on social media, is that very few of us see just how rich we are. Our culture goes beyond regions of our size, dare I say even rivaling some larger metropolitan areas. Open your mind and drop all of the preconceived thoughts you already may have. Let’s begin with Banners at McNeese. This organization alone covers more ground than a dozen organizations in another city. This is what you can find on www.banners.org: “The mission of Banners at McNeese is to provide our community easy access to exceptional arts and humanities programming and education that is unique to our area. We strive to create an environment that supports lifelong learning and an appreciation for cultural diversity. Banners also seeks to enhance the quality of life in our community, while making our region more attractive to people and businesses relocating to Southwest Louisiana.” I could list the incredible events and other public offerings, but there is too much to fit in one column, so do some research on your own. Please note that a majority of the events Banners puts on are free or at a low cost Vol. 6 • No. 20
Saturday, Jan. 24 Kay Miller and Aaron Horne 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Dustin Landry/Travis Corbello 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, Lake Charles
At Fault 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
while involving the many schools in our region. The Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana’s mission is to “expand, enrich, and strengthen the diverse cultural heritage of Southwest Louisiana by supporting artists and area arts organizations.” In doing so, they go beyond their mission and host nine-plus major events are almost all free. I look forward to Live at the Lakefront, which takes place for three consecutive Fridays in March featuring amazing talent at a breathtaking venue while utilizing our gorgeous downtown landscape. For more on this powerhouse of an organization, visit www.artscouncilswla.org. Another entity is the Lake Charles/ Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. While I can’t wait until they begin investing a bit more in our region to take what we already offer to the next level, it’s no secret they kick arse when it comes to making sure the world knows all about the many treasures and as Carol Anne Gayle likes to say, the joie de vivre of Southwest Louisiana. The CVB gives you the best of the best overview of our region and is just as helpful to those of us who call Southwest Louisiana home as it is to those who visit.
Kyle Wilson, Last Honky Tonk Tour 9 p.m.- midnight @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC
Watchers /Royal Teeth 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., Lake Charles DJ CaGe 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Patting myself and others on the back, I would like to say that thanks to media platforms like The Jambalaya News, LakeCharles.com, KBYS and a few others that I have had the honor to work with, very few people now say the daunting words “there’s nothing to do” when referring to our area. I, along with countless others, have fought extra hard in the past halfdecade, if not longer, to disprove that connotation and I must say we have done a damn good job. But there is more work to be done. So find out what’s going on and share that information with your family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, etc. The more you get the word out, the more we get to choose from. The reason our Civic Center lacks the shows most of us say we want is because many of us are guilty of deciding the day of an event whether it is worth our time or not. These huge events cannot afford to set up in the Civic Center and other venues if only 100 people or less purchase their tickets in advance. Please think about this. Let’s begin treating our area with the honor, respect and support it deserves. I hope you push through today for tomorrow; no matter what, make it a great one, Southwest Louisiana! January 15, 2015 37
Sunday, Jan. 25 Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan St, LC
Thursday, Jan. 29 Jenny Slaydon 6 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Monday, Jan. 26 Karaoke Night 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ My Place 630 W Prien Lake Rd # G, LC
Chubby Carrier
7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Tuesday, Jan. 27 Karaoke Night 7 p.m. - Midnight @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Dancing 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Wednesday, Jan. 28 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 Cajun Night with Chris Miller & Bayou Roots 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, Lake Charles
Neal Smith 8-11 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC Talent Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC DJ Night 9 p.m. - Close @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Karaoke 9 p.m. @ Cooler’s Ice House 3622 Ryan St., LC 38 January 15, 2015
Vol. 6 • No. 20
Vol. 6 • No. 20
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MARDI GRAS 12th NIGHT It’s here! The 2015 Mardi Gras season started off with all the glitz and glam that you can expect at the annual 12th Night celebration at the Lake Charles Civic Center! The kings, queens, and captains of more than 50 krewes put on a spectacular show for the delighted audience. It’s only the beginning! Happy Mardi Gras!
Maurine Johnson and Betty Simon
Craig and Karen Larocca
Ana Sedano, Abbie Nelson, Melissa Sedano and Dawsyn Guidry
Donna Lejeune, Ona Jines, Martha Crowder and Gloria Johnson
Krewe of Mischief
COLOR VIBE 5K FUN RUN Color Vibe 5K partnered with American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life for a great event for a great cause—beating cancer! There was high energy at the amphitheater with music, prizes, and a sea of colorful runners/walkers! Big fun had by all!
Mathieu Beitit, Diamond Konan and Sarah Capoet
Annita Barker with Lauren and Rachel Garner 40 January 15, 2015
Peyton Mclemore and Jenna Chlotseldt
Nicole Pruitt, Leisha Rangel and Meg Adams
Nastya Tleubich, Klaudia Garulik, Tulia Kral, Hannah Brett and ViVi Borbely
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SOUTHLAND CONFERENCE BASKETBALL The McNeese Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams faced Houston Baptist at Burton Coliseum recently for some non-stop action! Cheerleaders roused the crowd with half-time fun, the Cowgirl Kickers and the MSU Jazz Band entertained—it was a fun night all around! The crowds always come out to support their blue and gold!
Jakerilyn Johnson and Lekeisha Guidry
Richard and Austin Stutes
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Nathan Spencer and Alexis Steenholdt
Monique Liggins, Morgan Daniels, Kameko Bryant and Alexis Rivas
Coti Roussel, Laikyn Hooper and Morgan Nutt
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MARDI GRAS QUEENS’ PAGEANT Lovely ladies from the five parishes took to the stage of the Rosa Hart Theatre with the hopes of being crowned a Mardi Gras queen! Each contestant was judged on overall stage presence, modeling, and personality by a panel of judges in front of a live audience. Our own Phil de Albuquerque was the emcee for the morning pageant! Here she is—Miss Mardi Gras!
Teneisha and Komora Ceasar with Myron Wright
Cerenity Harmon, Jacie Johnson, Ali Claire LaBove and Zoie LeFranc
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Drew Rocca and Fallyn Gonsoulin
Dani and Kennedy Peavy
Kim and Hannah Sonnier with Maggie Mott
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Vol. 6 • No. 20
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