The Jambalaya News - 02/03/17, Vol. 8, No. 19

2 February 3, 2017

Vol. 8 • No. 19

February 3, 2017 • Volume 8 • Issue 19

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

Contributors Nicole Shuff Arabie Nick Brown George Cline Julie Ann Fay Scott Holtzman Patricia Landry Mike McHugh Jason Machulski Justin Morris Russell Pawlowski Terri Schlichenmeyer Nick Villaume Sales lauren@thejambalayanews.com

Graphics Art/Production Director Burn Rourk

COVER STORY 18 Jason Carroll: Carrying on the Legacy of Monsour’s Photography REGULARS 6 We are SWLA! 8

Dang Yankee

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Tips From Tip

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Adoption Corner

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12 Soul Matters 13 The Pirate’s Platter FEATURES 5 We Are Better Than This 15 Special Touch Therapeutic Massage

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16 Healthy Size 20 A New Mayor for Lake Charles: What to Consider THE SPICE OF SWLA

25 All Things Football 26 Acting Up!

28 Nightlife Guide

Vol. 8 • No. 19

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Trippin’

27 Bookworm Sez…

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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10 Tales of the Bayou Pickers

22 Event Guide Business Office Manager Jeanie Rourk

On Cover: Photo by Jason Carroll of Monsour’s Photography

30 Justin Morris’s Lake Charles 33 Funbolaya 34 Society Spice

20 28 34 February 3, 2017 3

When I was growing up in Boston, February was one of the duller months. It was still the dead of winter, with slush and ice on the ground, coughs and head colds, and gray days all around. Spring seemed so far away. Thank God for Valentine’s Day to break up the monotony. At St. Lazarus School, we would all bring in enough Valentine’s cards for each child in the class, so I’d come home with a good haul.

There was also candy: red hot hearts that melted in the palm of your hand and turned them red, chocolate-covered cherries, and those chalky heartshaped candies with little sayings such as “Be Mine” and “True Love.”

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Valentine's Day I would always get a special card for my parents, and of course they would have one for me, along with a gift— something like bubble bath or a stuffed animal. My parents also exchanged cards—Big Cards. The kind that cost a lot of money, emblazoned with hearts and flowers.

There were always cards stuffed with money from Aunt Jeannette and Uncle Frank and Aunt Frances. Jeannette’s card was usually accompanied by a lecture and uncomfortable seat-squirming on my part.

My mother loved throwing parties and I remember one Valentine’s Day party in particular back in the midsixties. Her parties always had

themes and she would usually think of something fun for her guests to do. For this one, she instructed everyone to write a short poem about their spouse.

I don’t know how well this went over with the partygoers, but I do remember how her poem to my dad began: “Amongst the ruins of Rome, he was standing/As I flew in for a happy landing.” (They’d met in Italy.) For years afterward, if my father happened to be standing around, one of us would recite that line to him.

Of course, along with Valentine’s Day, the other Big Thing February is known for is the Super Bowl. It didn’t start until 1967 and of course it wasn’t a very big deal in the beginning, so I never grew up with it. Now, of course, even if you hate football you inevitably show up at a party anyway just to eat and drink. And then there are those little squares that people place money on…

Of course, living in SWLA brings a whole new meaning to February. As far as I am concerned, spring begins Feb. 15. It actually started a lot earlier this year. Other than that one deep-freeze weekend that sadly killed a lot of plants, it’s been warm. We may have a few more cold days, but I think

it’s safe to say that winter is over. I’ve worn boots exactly twice, and the second time, I shouldn’t have. I know my cold-loving friends here are not that happy. Sorry, guys. It did snow today up in Boston, in case you were wondering.

And finally, if you’re a native of Louisiana, the biggest happening of the year is going on right now : Mardi Gras, of course. Fat Tuesday falls in February more often than not, and it’s a mad time of parties, balls, parades and sheer exuberance. Nothing else like it anywhere else in the country.

So enjoy the month of February with its hearts and flowers and parties and fun.

With the world in turmoil, take some time to embrace life and family and friends.

Remember what is important.

Follow your joy.

Lauren Abate

Vol. 8 • No. 19

We are Better Than This

By Nick Brown

I have a confession: for most of my life, I have been cheating on the country of my birth with another country. I was born an Englishman, but have been conducting a love affair with America from an early age.

Like many affairs, it started with an odd movie, discreet visits and finally, having been interviewed, fingerprinted, documented and inoculated, armed with my immigrant’s paperwork, last year I moved in. I am a legal permanent resident, holder of the prized green card.

It’s an odd time for we holders of the magical green card. As I type, other legal permanent residents of the United States are being turned away at airports overseas or being detained at centres in the US. At present, this only affects citizens of the not-so-magnificent seven: Iran, Iraq, Syria, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen and Libya. As a citizen of the United Kingdom, still a close ally of the United States, I do not feel threatened by this latest turn in immigration restrictions, and yet, if this order can be used against some legal permanent residents, how little

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would it take for the focus to move to the citizens of other nations?

Our green cards all look the same; we have all been vetted. I obtained my permanent residence status by marriage. It took six months and around $1,000 in fees before I was approved and I have been married to the same American citizen for 17 years. I might add, I was married in my good friend Jim Doyle’s house in Lake Charles. Now, having been told I was accepted and had legal status on condition I behaved myself, I rather assumed that that was that. It now seems that may not be the case after all.

One of the many great things about America is that it is a nation of laws; there is due process and an understanding that no one is above the law, be they President or pauper. The Constitution guarantees certain basic human rights and governments ignore these rights at their peril.

Much of what my generation of Englishmen learned about America began with the movies. It is easy to dismiss Hollywood as irrelevant to the real America or as

some of my countrymen foolishly do, to dismiss America as all showbiz and glitz.

There is glitz and glamour, to be sure, but that is not its heart or its strength.

Through the ages, the movies have done a remarkable job of reminding us of American values and history.

Examples are legion, but a particular favourite of mine is The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance where Jimmy Stewart plays the idealistic lawyer facing down the ruthless outlaw Valance with legal argument. Although he is beaten up for his pains, he comes out on top, leading the territory to statehood. This film was made in 1962 during the Kennedy Presidency and the Civil Rights era and for me, it covers two American themes: First, that you effect change in America in accordance with the law and the political process. Second, that the freedom of the press, or in the 21st century, the media, is vital to a democracy like America, as the magnificently drunken editor of the small town newspaper in the movie proclaims: “We are the watchdogs howling at the wolves.”

These are odd times we

live in, threats existential and external abound and to preserve freedom there is a need for not only the might of the security forces but also the rule of law. America is the good guy and will always behave better than the bad guy. Holding the moral high ground by keeping within the law does not render America ineffective as a nation; on the contrary, it makes you stronger, it denies the oxygen of propaganda to those that hate freedom and gives a light to those oppressed in unhappier places. In The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, it is said of Jimmy Stewart’s character that others conquered the territory with guns, but he came armed only with law books.

Sadly, we are not going to lose a need for the men with guns any time soon and we rightly pay tribute to them every day. Their sacrifices would be wasted if we ignored the rule of law by somehow believing that the limits and protections of the Constitution and courts for all might be discarded, or discarded for some, and that this would somehow make us safer. This country is bigger and better than that.

February 3, 2017 5

City Savings Banks Announces Promotions City Savings Bank is proud to announce the recent promotions for Karen Spiller Hatch as assistant VP and branch manager of the DeQuincy branch and Lori Mitchell as commercial lender.

Hatch is a native of DeQuincy and attended LSU before earning a Lori Mitchell Karen Hatch bachelor’s degree in finance at McNeese State University. Hatch has been with City Savings Bank for 12 years. Originally from DeQuincy, Mitchell has been with City Savings Bank for three years, and has 36 years of extensive experience in banking. For more information, call (337) 463-8661 or visit www.

CitySavingsBank.com.

The Eye Clinic Opens Lake Charles Satellite Office Louisiana Fur & Wildlife Festival Named Top 20 Event The Southeast Tourism Society recently honored the Louisiana Fur & Wildlife Festival as a 2017 Top 20 Event for the month of January. The festival was held Friday–Saturday, Jan. 13-14, in Cameron with plenty of activities for festival goers. The Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau is a member of STS, an organization that promotes travel to and within the southeastern part of the United States.. The STS Top 20 Events marketing program highlights the “best of the best” from submitted entries.

The Eye Clinic, the region’s largest provider of comprehensive family eye care, has opened a new satellite office at 2800 1st Avenue in Lake Charles. This office has opened in preparation for the move of the main office from Oak Park Blvd. to Imperial Blvd. off of Nelson Road in March. It will offer eye care appointments and retinal care, and will soon be adding optical and contact lens services.. Call (337) 310-0767 for additional information.

Board of Commissioners of WCCH Elects Officers Telesha Bertrand (left), Louisiana Fur and Wildlife Festival president, receives the Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event award from Brant Parish (right), chairman of the board of directors of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Memorial Specialty Hospital Names Co-Medical Directors Peter Karam, MD and A.F. Abu Shamat, MD will serve as comedical directors for Memorial Specialty Hospital. Dr. Karam is an internal medicine physician at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. Dr. Shamat is a nephrologist on staff at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital and Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. Both doctors are board certified in internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine and have served our community for many years. Memorial Specialty Hospital is a 29-bed long-term acute care hospital that is part of the Memorial Health System. It is located on the third floor of CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital.

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The board of commissioners of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital elected its chairman and vice-chairman to serve a two-year term beginning in 2017. Rickey Watson of Vinton was appointed to serve as the hospital’s new board chairman and Joe Devall of Hackberry was appointed to serve as vice-chairman. Watson has served on the board of commissioners since September 2013 and Devall has served since February 2006. Current members also serving on the board include immediate past chairman Robert (Bobby) LeTard of Westlake, Robert (Bob) Davidson of Sulphur and Frank LaBarbera, Jr., of Carlyss.

Ferguson Named VP of Marketing for Golden Nugget Lake Charles Andrea Ferguson has been named vice president of marketing at Golden Nugget Lake Charles, according to Sr. VP/ GM Gerry Del Prete. Ferguson joined the Golden Nugget team in June 2015 as director of marketing and was promoted to senior director of marketVol. 8 • No. 19

ing in December of that year. She was awarded the Casino Marketer of the Year honor at the 2016 Landry’s GM Conference in recognition of her leadership and results. In her new role, Andrea will continue to supervise brand marketing, Special Events and several other areas while increasing her oversight of marketing strategy, analysis and enterprise-wide initiatives.

Supervisor to Patient Care Director. In his new role, Thompson will be responsible for directing daily operations of nursing departments and the staffing office. Thompson, a resident of Sulphur, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from McNeese State University. He has been employed at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital for seven years with previous work experience in pharmaceutical sales.

Mallard Cove Donates to Children’s Advocacy Center

Meyer & Associates Sponsors Airshow

Mallard Cove’s Men’s Golf Association donated $15,420 to the Children’s Advocacy Center, a division of Family & Youth Counseling Agency, Inc. Included in the donation is a sponsorship of $2,500 given by First Federal Bank of Louisiana. The money was raised during the 39th Annual Shine Flournoy Golf Tournament held at Mallard Cove to benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center. For experienced professional assistance, contact Family & Youth at (337) 436-9533 or visit www.fyca.org.

Local engineering consulting firm Meyer & Associates, Inc., has recently committed to a $25,000 premier level sponsorship for the Chennault International Airshow, which is set for April 28-30, 2017, at Chennault International Airport. The sponsorship will be dedicated to the heart-stopping aerobatics of Randy Ball. The Airshow will also feature a nostalgic array of aircraft of all vintages and kids’ activities. To purchase general admission or VIP tickets online or to learn about the event lineup, visit at www.chennaultairshow.com.

American Press Sesquicentennial Calendars at Historic City Hall American Press 2017 Sesquicentennial Calendars are now available for a $5 donation at 1911 Historic City Hall, 1001 Ryan Street.

The donations will go towards funding the various public celebrations currently being planned to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the City’s incorporation. Plans are underway now for an April unearthing of a time capsule that was buried during the City’s Centennial Celebration held in 1967. A lakefront community celebration and opening of a special Lake Charles historical exhibit are also being planned for the fall. The calendars have been donated to the City by the American Press and celebrates Lake Charles then and now through a series of photo comparisons. Each month of the calendar also features tidbits of Lake Charles history. For more information on the Sesquicentennial Celebration, visit www.celebratelakecharles150.com.

L to R: Julio R. Galan, President & CEO of Family & Youth; Bub Bell, Director of MGA; Gray Little, Secretary of MGA; Erika Simon, VP of Family & Youth; Leslie Harless, Marketing Director for First Federal Bank of Louisiana.

Nicosia Named Advisory Board Member for Offender Watch Chief Donald D. Dixon announced that Detective Corporal Michael Nicosia, in charge of the Lake Charles Police Department’s Sex Offender Registry/Child Predator Division, has again this year been accepted as an Advisory Board member for Offender Watch, a National Sex Offender Registry Program. This program is utilized within the entire state of Louisiana. As part of Detective Nicosia’s responsibility, he will also be attending the National Conference for Crimes against Children.

Watkins Named WCCH Employee of the Month

Diane Watkins

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital recently named Diane Watkins as its Employee of the Month for January 2017. As a ward clerk in the Medical/Surgical Unit, Watkins provides assistance to patients, visitors, clinical staff and physicians each day and helps to prioritize daily work load to ensure a safe and efficient environment for all. Watkins has been with the organization for over seven years.

WCCH Names Thompson Director West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is pleased to announce that Brian Thompson, RN, has been promoted from the position of House Vol. 8 • No. 19

February 3, 2017 7

Didn’t You Get My Text?

Just in the span of my own lifetime, I’ve witnessed an explosion in the number of ways that we can communicate with each other. As a result, we’ve been able to connect more quickly and over longer distances. Or not connect at all.

Here’s what I mean. There was an instance several years ago where a group of us from work arranged to meet for dinner to entertain a colleague who was visiting from out of town. I arrived at the restaurant at the appointed time to find my group seated around the table—finishing their dessert. The only thing I was in time for was to pick up the check. My first thought was about how my coworkers had just set a new low for office tomfoolery, until the person who’d set up the

8 February 3, 2017

dinner explained that our out-of-town colleague had a schedule conflict and the reservation time had to be moved up.

“Didn’t you get my text?” he asked me.

I didn’t know how to tell him, in any language that would be remotely considered professional, that I didn’t at the time even own a cell phone.

So while many people these days feel like all these modern, so-called “advances” have connected them more closely, I, for one, am feeling increasingly isolated.

I have a hard enough time remembering who to contact in what way. Some of my friends prefer that I leave a voice mail. With others, I get the annoying message, “You have reached

a mailbox that has not been set up.” Others like to communicate exclusively by e-mail, and then there are those who haven’t checked their inboxes since the Clinton administration. Imagine how many generous offers from rich Nigerians those people have missed out on over the years, or how much cheap Viagra they could have scored. And don’t even get me started about the ones who only want to you to chat with them over Facebook Messenger.

I see only two possible ways to manage this problem of who to contact how.

Either the number of communication options has to go down, or I will have to have fewer friends. And since the former possibility is about as likely to happen as Lady Yankee never again misplacing her keys, I may just have to join a monastery.

I pine for the days of yore when there were only a handful of ways to communicate with somebody. I think that the Native Americans had it best in the time before the Europeans came over and took everything they had, forcing them into the casino business so they could slowly get it all back

quarter by quarter.

In those days, they had only two ways to communicate. They could either do a face-to-face powwow or send smoke signals to each other. The latter was actually the first recorded historical instance of social networking. Smoke signals are much like tweets or Facebook posts in that when you put them out, the whole world can see them. And like tweets, they weren’t without their problems. In one instance, a decadeslong tribal war got ignited (no pun intended) when the wife of one chief burned the elk she was roasting over an open fire, which in turn sent out a smoke signal that a rival chief interpreted as a profanity directed at his mother. Our new president might be wise to take a note from history.

I’m sure that I’m not the only person today who’s totally befuddled with all these options for modern communication. If you feel the same way, I’d love to hear from you. My preferred method is voice mail, once I get around to setting it up.

And for the record, I now accept dinner invitations by text.

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that reclining (ah yes, “slouching” in my mind) is preferred. The much-frowned-upon recliner chair (many wives detest them) is suggested over one that makes you “Sit up straight.” Hard to believe that my early slovenly habits are currently being promoted and sanctioned.

My dearly beloved mother would be absolutely horrified.

home run, but how will you know what you like until you’ve given it a try?

Happy Mardi Gras!

I love the Mardi Gras season! I have had the pleasure to partake in just about every aspect of Mardi Gras in Lake Charles. I have been a longtime krewe member, a guest of various other krewes’ balls, and have been a King, a Duke and an escort for a debutante. I’ve ridden in many parades and have thrown my share of beads. I’ve watched a ton of parades (both here and on New Orleans) all the while catchTry ing throws and beads. I’ve paraded in 12th Nights and the Royal Galas Something New and have loved every minute of it. I Lake Charles’ growth has never have been a behind-the-scenes brought in an influx of new participant like my dear departed restaurants. Now, we can try wife, who really enjoyed doing those various ethnic dishes that Slouching things. She was widely known for we have not had the opportunity to her participation, and our ball this feast upon before these new estabTowards Recovery year was dedicated to her memory. lishments opened. They come from I can still hear my mother saying Krewes do have a heart.

“Sit up straight, shoulders back, quit around the world, presenting an Mardi Gras is so easy to be a part opportunity to broaden our palslouching.” Mothers do not nag so of and whatever your age, there is a ates while in our own backyard.

I I won’t even suggest that she would place for you. There is still time this have made a concerted effort to try engage in such uncouth behavior. year for you to get involved. Our Now I find that after going through some; I have always been kind of a big parades are yet to roll. Many foodie and welcome new tastes. I back surgery (I had an open lamikrewes are looking for new memrealize that some of the more exotic nectomy), that sitting up straight ingredients in these dishes may not bers and there is probably a krewe during this somewhat lengthy rebe available locally, but the proprie- that reflects your kind of attitude covery period is not recommendtors are diligently working to find as and level of participation. Some are ed. Gee, what comes around goes around. Yes, it is true that sitting up close a match as they can get around formal; some are about as informal as they can be. Find one for yourself here to present their home recipes straight puts pressure on that part and your family and laissez les bons of the spine where I had the surgery. as accurately as possible. I am not temps roulez! saying that everything I’ve had is a I almost fell over when I learned

Meet Arizona, one of our ver y special girls! When she was a year old, she tested negative for FIV (feline immunodeficienc y). Recently, having a potential adopter and needing shots updated, she tested positive. S o, she is a special needs girl--and what a girl she is! Primarily, she is gray tabby but has a few other spots that are orange. Quite a coat complimented by beautiful large green eyes. Fifty percent of cats with FIV never show any symptoms. Most live long and healthy lives; they simply need to be an “only.” Currently, AZ is asymptomatic and will be someone’s loving BFF (FIV is not contagious to humans). She is af fectionate and loves to be br ushed or petted. For more information on this beautiful special girl, call or email (337) 478-7294; lapaw@bellsouth.net.

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February 3, 2017 9

Bayou Pickers Discovers Uncommon Objects time. So many random things to look at and explore; half the time you’re not even sure what they are. Drawers full of Being a picker tends to bring me to random old photos, bowls full of keys, a other places: different states, cities and everywhere in between. The thing I love pig oiler...still not sure what that is! This place is like walking through a timeline most about picking is that sometimes, that went on vacation. You’re intrigued, you actually get to see other people’s confused, and thrilled all at once. And items that are now available to sell to the collector or anyone who appreciates that is fun.”

Wow, that was an an amazing piece of amazing vision! As history. we walked through I had an opthe store that was portunity to visit a packed with shopplace called Unpers, I realized I common Objects would really love in Austin recently to see this in my that I would like to hometown. It was tell you about. As I not only a unique walked down South shopping experiCongress street ence but an acin Austin with tual, ever-changing Elizabeth Doland, a museum that you can actually touch storefront caught my eye. Even though they did not open until 11 a.m., I knew I and feel and learn from. I do plan to go back very soon and maybe get a chance could not leave the street until I looked to talk to the owner a bit to get the story inside. behind such an amazing place.

It was an amazing blast, from the Their website is uncommonobjects. store’s inviting windows to the limitless com and they have been featured in amount of history and artifacts inside. various publications. On your next trip From the ceilings to the floor, I saw to Austin, make sure you put Uncomeverything I have ever wanted to touch and see. Each piece of history seemed to mon Objects on your list. As for me, I jump off the shelves and tell you a story, will make sure that I revisit and make this a stop every chance I get. This from childhood memories to ancient store makes me appreciate the way we artifacts. are preserving history. Even one small I asked Elizabeth to give me her simple paper wrapper can tell a story, thoughts about this unique store. “At it’s just how we share that story so that first when you walk in, it feels like a quirky little antique shop,” she said. “But history can live on through us. It’s a as you’re walking around, each little area huge word. I cannot wait to see what the future holds in my adventures to come. becomes another place in a different

By Jason Machulski

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Vol. 8 • No. 19

Sandals Honeymoon: Love Is All You Need Sandals Provides the Rest When you are thinking about the perfect Caribbean honeymoon destination, there are many breathtaking options, which can be overwhelming for the young (or not so young) couple wishing to start their lives together in a tropical paradise.

With so many choices before them, it’s not surprising that most couples committed to putting down a big chunk of change on an exotic and memorable honeymoon will seek the expert advice of a travel agent. And, long a favorite recommendation amongst agents has been the luxury all-inclusive resort Sandals, which boasts 15 fivestar resorts on six islands that showcase some of the most stunning beaches and sparkling turquoise waters in the Caribbean.

Sandals is recognized for having more quality inclu-

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sions than almost any other luxury beach resort: best beaches, unlimited gourmet dining, luxurious accommodations, unlimited premium spirits and premium house wines, top notch entertainment, unlimited water and land sports including scuba diving and snorkeling, and free Wi-Fi. In 2016, Brides Magazine, often considered “the Bride’s Bible,” named one of Sandals newest resorts, Sandals LaSource Grenada as one of the Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in the Caribbean. Lush, green and unspoiled Grenada, known as the Spice Island for being a world producer of nutmeg, is situated in the lower southern Caribbean.

Yes, it’s a bit of a jaunt, but by all accounts, is well worth the extra fly miles.

Sandals touts La Source as an exotic, unspoiled hideaway,

by Pat Landry that offers a romantic Caribbean vacation in the heart of Grenada’s exclusive Pink Gin Beach. Defying every convention of traditional design, this resort features three unique villages with cutting-edge innovations such as Skypool Suites with infinity-edge plunge pools and an oceanside pool with a “living room.”

Completing the luxury Included experience are a stateof-the-art fitness center and spa, and 10 gourmet restaurants including the Caribbean’s first true steakhouse.”

LaSource Grenada has an array of luxury-level categories of accommodations with the most luxurious being the Love Nest Suites complete with personal butlers. Yes, personal BUTLER! Not a service too many people have had before and an experience that one is not likely to ever forget.

Sandals butlers are trained by the prestigious Guild of Professional English Butlers and are at your beck and call during your stay. Butlers are there to make your life on the island easier and more luxurious. So, by all means, if your

budget permits, don’t miss out on this possibly once in a lifetime experience! Upon check-in, guests are given a cell phone to reach their butler with any request: Unpack bags Make all dinner reservations Give a guided tour of resort Chill champagne Reserve the best beach or pool chairs Arrange a romantic dinner on your patio or balcony Serve favorite drinks and lunch at the beach or by the pool Run a rose-petal bath Expedite room service Deliver fresh coconut water on beach Don’t be shy to ask for what you want or need. Enjoy being treated like royalty. Your butler is there to serve you. Your pleasure, comfort and convenience is his/her concern.

If this sounds like something you would be interested in, or if you ‘d like us to find another destination, contact Travel Partners today!

Pat Landry is a Travel Agent with Travel Partners.

She can be reached at pat@ vacations.life

February 3, 2017 11

Create In Me A Clean Heart

How do you hand over your whole heart? How do you hand over your whole self ? Many of us try to live a life with a clean heart, but you have to hand over your whole self and your whole heart. No half ways are going to be any good.

We have all encountered people who live for everyone but themselves. They seem to always be in a place of discontent. You can hear them mumbling and complaining, always wondering why all that they do is never noticed. They seem to remain wrapped up in themselves.

Wake up to the understanding that it isn’t about the time and money you give. God is actually asking us to give all of ourselves to Him and to hand over our desires. By truly doing so, He will give you a new self. Your will becomes His. I’m not saying that this will be easy to do. There are days when you feel like you have been beaten to death. But then, other days are full of wonderful mo12 February 3, 2017

ments that just flow. Standing in a place of fear and doubt is a dangerous thing as we try to remain what we call “ourselves” and keep our personal intentions of being happy as our goals in life. Actually, we are letting our heart and mind lead their own way - focusing on money, pleasure, status quo ambition - and hoping, in spite of this, to remain and act honest and humble.

The changes you make in your life have to go deeper than the surface. You wake up every morning with good intentions rushing into your thoughts before you even lift your head off your pillow. What happens instead is that we begin pushing all those good thoughts out and listening to other voices that overrule the good.

Don’t give in. We are meant to go in for the fullness. We aren’t meant to be ordinary. We are given seeds to plant and then cultivate and grow. If we don’t give the seeds what

they need to flourish, they won’t produce and ripen.

Instead, they will just dry up and go bad.

Sometimes, God even partners us up with people that will become part of His bigger plan; people that will help see the job through. He won’t let it rest if you say “Yes!” when He calls you to your purpose. At some point, there comes a time that we finally agree to do it without backsliding. A place where we understand and believe that we can do it and will do it.

I almost forgot to add that you should not to settle for anything less. This purpose that you have agreed to is

your walk. After you have fallen enough and been punched in the gut a few too many times, you decide to stand up and dust yourself off. You agree to stop being lazy and a coward. You step into obedience. We’ve been given to death to fulfill our purpose in life. The struggle we choose to put ourselves through by ignoring, pushing away, and denying all the signs that we’ve been given only leads us to struggle. This force we feel is God pushing us to move on up into a higher level, to be more patient, braver, and more loving. MOVE AND GROW with Him instead of against Him. To book a Soul Matters Session with Nicole Shuff Arabie, call (337) 540-6573.

You can also go to her Facebook page at www.facebook. com/DeclutteringYourSoul

Vol. 8 • No. 19

Cajun Shrimp and Mushroom Alfredo

This dish is requested often at my house. It is difficult for the Pirate to make this dish “light” or “healthier,” however, everything in moderation is acceptable. Fettuccine al burro, as it is called in Italy, is a staple recipe in most restaurants. The name goes back to early Rome. A true Fettuccine Alfredo is coated with butter and thickened only with mozzarella cheese. Most Italian restaurants in our region use cream to thicken. The Pirate is going to take the old and new and add a little Cajun twist.

Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 pound fresh shrimp (10 big shrimp, 16-20 Ct shrimp) without shells, deveined 3 garlic cloves ½ bunch green onion Fresh basil 2 tbsp. Cajun Red Head or your favorite seasoning 8 oz. mushrooms, sliced 1 cup half and half ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded ¾ cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded Cooked pasta water 8 oz. linguini pasta

oil if necessary. Cook on high heat for about two minutes, occasionally stirring, until mushrooms become soft and release juices. Salt midway through cooking.

Add cooked shrimp to the skillet with mushrooms and immediately add one cup half and half and all of the cheese.

Bring to boil, then reduce to simmer, and cook, constantly stirring, until all cheese melts. Cover with lid and remove from heat.

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve some of the pasta water. Drain and rinse pasta with cold water.

Add pasta to the skillet with shrimp and mushrooms and cream sauce. Stir well and season with more seasoning and basil, if desired. If the cream sauce is too thick and you want it creamier, add some pasta water in small amounts until you reach desired consistency.

Bon Appetit!

Preparation

Heat a large skillet. When hot, add two tablespoons of olive oil. Next, add shrimp and cook approximately two minutes on each side, ensuring a good pink color. Add fresh basil and seasoning to shrimp and cook another one-two minutes, occasionally stirring, until shrimp is pink on both sides.

Remove the shrimp from skillet. If shrimp is a little undercooked it’s okay, because you will continue cooking it in the sauce.

To the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms. Add more olive Vol. 8 • No. 19

February 3, 2017 13

Oak Park Dental Gives Back for Valentine’s Day Since 2002, Oak Park Dental has given back to community by offering a free dental clinic to those in need once a year—on Valentine’s Day. When Dr. Harry Castle learned that many people in the area were not able to go to the dentist as often as they should due to lack of insurance, he and his team decided to do something about it.

Cleanings, fillings and extractions will be offered on Tuesday, Feb. 14 starting at 8 a.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. Six doctors will be on hand.

The clinic is very popular, with approximately 150175 people taking advantage of these free services. Call (337) 478-3232 for more information.

14 February 3, 2017

Vol. 8 • No. 19

SPECIAL TOUCH THERAPUTIC MASSAGE

Humble Beginnings...

Deep Roots.

What started out in a small room in a nail salon in June of 1994 has blossomed into a full-service massage center. From their humble beginnings, Special Touch Therapeutic Massage in Lake Charles has grown by leaps and bounds, and is now one of the more wellrespected locations where you can get a fullservice massage Their growth was steady. As time went on, Special Touch began taking on associates, eventually moving into Gigi’s of Christus St. Patrick’s on Nelson Rd., where they remained for over 10 years. Now located in Athlete’s Corner Plaza on West Sale Rd (next to Big Daddy’s) owner Joy Clement Derise is proud of what the business has become. With clients travelling from as far away as Baton Rouge and Houston, it is easily one of the most well-known and respected massage services in town.

Special Touch offers a variety of massages including deep tissue, trigger point, geriatric, sports, infant and prenatal, reflexology and so much more. In addition, you can find a wide variety of massage products such as Biofreeze, Topricin, Fibro Cream and Polar Vol. 8 • No. 19

Lotion, to name a few.

Ear Candling, the ancient technique of removing wax to clean the ear, is available, along with AMS cellulite reduction treatments, Medicupping, hot stone therapy,

and lymphatic drainage.

The staff is comprised of owner Joy Clement Derise, Griffin “Spider” Edwards,

Patrick Freeman, Jennifer Kramer, Belinda “Toupie” Lemaire and Gitana Smith.

The goal at Special Touch is to simply expose new people to the healing potential of massage.

“Whether it’s relaxation or injury related reasons that you seek us out, we’re here to ease those pains and Joy Clement Derise educate you on how Owner, E0422 to assist in your own recovery and their lifestyles and their bodhealing,” Derise says. “We ies. We celebrate their lives treat each and every one of with them and look forward our clients like family. We to welcoming you into our have clients that have been family as well!” with us from the beginning.

Look them up on Facewhich over 22 years ago. We book for weekly and monthly know them, their families, specials.

February 3, 2017 15

Healthy Size is locally owned and has operated in Jennings since 2006. In January 2016, we realized the opportunity to expand, and the obvious choice was the rapidly growing Southwest Louisiana community of Lake Charles! We have been welcomed with open arms and are looking forward to expanding our client base to assist you with your weight loss and weight management goals.

Our team includes several highly-experienced staff members of nutrition coaches and counselors. Healthy Size has been a leader as a trusted source for Healthy Lifestyle Solutions.

We are highly successful in improving Quality Measures and Patient Outcomes. Our clinic is supervised by Dr. Penny Goodwin, who has dedicated her practice to the treatment of obesity.

Losing weight can be hard and stressful, but teaming up with Healthy Size can make the process easier. Our highly energetic and motivating team of professionals will address your concerns and customize and individualize a plan providing education, motivation, and empowerment to propel you to your success.

Lake Charles location

While we Expand, our Clients Continue to Shrink!

So How Does it Work?

You will receive one-on-one coach counseling and weekly weigh-ins and blood pressure checks. Healthy Size utilizes the computerized BCA Reading/ Body Fat Analysis to measure the fat weight that you are losing while preserving muscle mass. We can also measure your BMI (Body Mass Index), water weight, BMR (basal metabolic rate), and fat percentage.

This indicates how healthy you are and can give us the information that will assist us in giving you a tailored plan. We also offer physician office visits and upon Dr. Goodwin’s approval, we can administered our Lipotropic injections: Lipo-Den, B12, or Lipo-Plex. Dr. Goodwin may also prescribe FDA-approved appetite suppressants for you, if she feels that it would be medically safe to do so.

The Affordable Care Act requests that all healthcare providers measure the BMI of all patients at every visit and inform those with a BMI above 24 of the increased health risks they face. The BMI can be a strong indicator of the likelihood that you will develop various health issues. The most common are elevated blood pressure levels, as well as elevated cholesterol and blood sugar levels. In many cases, these numbers will improve with diet and weight loss.

We will work closely with your primary care physician to assist you in improving your Quality Measures and Outcomes. At your request, we can report your results and progress directly to your primary care physician. We also work with post-bariatric surgery patients to help instill healthy lifestyle and nutrition guidance.

But What Should I Eat? Healthy Size also offers a

16 February 3, 2017

complete line of protein foods, snacks and drinks that fit the protein, low-carb, low-sugar diets that would benefit so many of us. Some of the products that we carry are Healthwise, Prescriptfit and Kay’s Naturals.

Healthy Size also offers pharmaceutical grade vitamins and supplements. You do not need to be a current patient to purchase these food and supplement products; you are welcome to stop in anytime to check us out and see what we offer to those of you who are choosing the “do it yourself ” route. We will work with you at whatever level you are comfortable with!

You wanted options and Healthy Size delivers. We are also an Ideal Protein Independent Authorized Clinic! The ideal Protein Weight Loss Method is a 4-phase protocol that burns fat while supporting muscle and other lean tissue. In addition to losing weight, dieters also receive the knowledge to keep their lost pounds off after dieting via one-on-one weekly coaching. You have the option to fast track your weight loss with The Ideal Protein Method. Contact us for more information on this amazing protocol.

Along with feeling good, we want you to look good, too!

So, we are proud to announce that we have also expanded our services to include the physician skincare line Rodan and Fields. If you haven’t experi-

enced Rodan and Fields, please feel free to stop in for a demo or go to www.gguidry.myrandf. com and take the “Solutions Tool,” which will suggest which skincare regimen to use based on your skincare concerns. Take the 60-day challenge with a 100 percent money back guarantee if not satisfied for any reason!

We are also distributors for Young Living Essential Oils and the Mountain Magic Products.

Healthy Size is your one-stop shop for a healthier you!

Let Us Help You to Become Your Healthy Size Today!

Come by for a free Body Fat Analysis Report and find out your BMI and which level you fall in from “Normal Weight Range: to “Class III Obesity,” and see if you’re at risk for disease and illness associated with your readings.

Jennings location: 1307 N. Cutting Ave. Closed Monday and Friday; Tuesday and Thursday: 8:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. and 2-5 p.m. Wednesday: 8 a.m-1 p.m. and 2-5 p.m. (337) 824-5200 Lake Charles location: 4080 Nelson Rd., Ste. 200. Monday: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-6 p.m.; Tuesday: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-5:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-5 p.m.

Closed Friday. (337) 429-5060.

Jennings location Vol. 8 • No. 19

Vol. 8 • No. 19

February 3, 2017 17

Jason Carroll JAM: How long have you been in the business?

JC: I am actually quite a newcomer in the photography business, I began pursuing photography seriously about three years ago. A lot of people advise me not to admit that, but I’m not ashamed of it! I have worked incredibly hard in those three years along with thousands of hours each year of studying master photographers and their techniques, lighting, posing, etc. When it comes down to it ,I believe that people will be more interested in the beauty of the art that I create rather than how many years I have been doing it.

18 February 3, 2017

Carrying on the Legacy of

Monsour’s Photography

JAM: What did you do before you became a photographer?

JC: Ha ha, oh man, well a lot, actually! My career for close to 20 years has been as network engineer and consultant; before that I was an industrial electrician and instrument technician.

JAM: How did you come to take over Victor’s business?

JC: That is an interesting story. My first year of photography, I worked for a great photographer and mentor Daniel Edwards who is now the digital media manager at Waitr. During that time, we had several discussions about how Monsour seemed to domi-

nate the premium photography market. We wanted to somehow reach clients like his because we knew that we could create imagery that would be modern and exciting for them and most importantly, that demographic actually appreciated and could see the difference between the current status quo photography and real premium photography.

In one of our discussions, I remember saying that we should focus on creating amazing photography and just slowly grow into the market. Then, when Victor retires, there will be a vacuum that we can easily fill. (Wow, little did I know!)

Premium photography is extremely popular in portrait and bridal markets due to Facebook and Pinterest, and it doesn’t look like that will change, Premium photographers are constantly raising the bar on what a high end photograph is to separate themselves from the massive number of amateur natural light photographers working as professionals and flooding the market with inexpensive and admittedly decent work.

Because of this, many potential premium photography clients are surprised at the investment required to create these “Pinterest-worthy” photos because they assume that it will not be much more expensive than the girl down the street that charges 100 bucks for a disk of images. The reality of premium photography is that many hours of planning, experimenting, and editing are involved sometimes in producing just a single amazing photo. There is an ever-shrinking number of photographers today that can produce or even understand classic portrait photography using studio strobes.

I had literally just started studying studio portraiture when Victor’s wife Tamara called and asked to meet with them to discuss the possibility of purchasing the business. I am not gonna lie; I was extremely surprised. A few

days later, I sat down with them at a local restaurant. We discussed Victor’s recent diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and the necessity for him to retire. They were looking for the right person to take over the clientele and business. With only a year of photography experience under my belt, I was extremely unsure of whether I could even come close to being able to run one of the most well-known and respected photography studios in SWLA, But as a die-hard entrepreneur an budding photographer, it was honestly an opportunity that only comes by once in a lifetime. So we agreed on the terms and I purchased the business from him after about two months of negotiations.

JAM: Was it difficult?

JC: That would be an understatement! Not only was I studying night and day to increase my photography skills, I was also learning the processes that were already in place in the business. I literally had to hit the ground running. The past two years have been extremely rewarding but still very difficult as I have literally spent every penny I made forging Monsour’s into a sleek, efficient and modern photography business with low overhead and extremely high quality products.

JAM: What type of photography do you enjoy doing the most?

JC: That’s a hard question.

Landscape photography is the most relaxing and I really enjoy finding and photographing a great landscape. I also love the excitement of a great wedding.

But I think I probably enjoy my masterpiece-styled sessions the most. Not only are they an artistic challenge, but I get to take my time with my client and really work to create something unique and captivating.

JAM: What makes your work different from the rest?

JC: That’s a good question. I think what sets me apart is that Vol. 8 • No. 19

my obsession with being unique has made me into somewhat of an enigma as a photographer. Most photographers will eventually find a “style” or “look” that they stick with, with the logic that if you stick with the same thing, you can get really good at doing that one thing. To me, that is way too one-dimensional! I study new photography styles and lighting every month and I have a squad of models that work exclusively with me to test new ideas and create new looks. My commitment to always learning ends up making me really good at a lot of different types of lighting and photography styles. My clients love this because I am not limited to any one style and I am not afraid to try something I haven’t done before.

JAM: What tips do you have for brides to make the most of their photos?

JC: First, don’t waste your money on cheap wedding photography! One thing I will guarantee you is that all those beautiful photos you pinned on Pinterest are not done by an inexpensive amateur photographer! If you spend thousands of dollars hiring professionals to make everything perfect for your wedding day, why skimp on photography?

Next, don’t pass on your Vol. 8 • No. 19

bridal session! Your wedding day will have some beautiful photos of you in your dress, but bridal sessions always capture the best angles and beauty of your dress!

Finally, print the best photos and put them in a frame or album somewhere! There is nothing like having real physical versions of your favorite images hanging around your home.

JAM: What have you learned since taking over the business?

JC: The most common frustration that people have with photographers are confusing or non-existent pricing information, and an excruciating amount of time to deliver the finished photos. For me, the past two years have been about developing a new kind of photography studio for our area, with online quoting, contracts, and invoicing that is as simple as you could wish for. We have streamlined our workflow to handle as much as 20 thousand photos per month (very useful during the Mardi Gras season!).

I have also publicly posted my pricing so that prospective clients can explore their options and develop a budget for their photography. I am also pleased to say our online booking is probably the easiest and fastest

in the area, allowing prospective clients to pre-book online and often receive a phone call from me within the same day to discuss the details and confirm their appointment.

I am your photographer.

To book the wedding or the photography session of your dreams, go to www.monsoursphotography.net or find him on Facebook!

JAM: What are your future plans?

JC: With a good system in place to support the business of photography, I will be moving my focus to more creative images and bigger style sessions. I will also be introducing some exciting new premium products like my handembellished acrylic masterpiece portraits.

JAM: Anything else readers should know about you?

JC: If you don’t care about your photography--and I really mean this--please don’t try to hire me! I care too much. I will literally kill myself trying to get you involved and engaged in your photography because that is where my best images come from. People who just want to get it over with are just wasting their money on me. If you really love photography, if you imagine yourself sometimes to be a little more fantastic, or impressive, or exciting, if you dream of being a princess or a ruffian or if you just want to look impressive as heck…

February 3, 2017 19

By Nick Villaume Everyone is still reeling from a tumultuous and contentious 2016. The new year continues to present challenges. For Lake Charles, it’s going to be a pivotal year, as we elect a new mayor this March.

After a very successful, and impressive, 16 years in office, Mayor Randy Roach will not be seeking re-election. His position is currently being sought by a number of prospective candidates.

Being newly returned to the Lake Area in 2013, I admit that only one or two of the candidates are familiar to me and, being an adamant believer in the power of local government, I wanted to know more about these candidates. So, I made a Facebook post with some question for the candidates. I feel that my post has helped to lay out the issues that we, as voters, should be considering as we elect our next mayor.

I think the first thing to consider in this race is whether or not we are electing a mayor who will make things happen or simply a bureaucratic who will deliver a lot of lip service. Mayer Roach, over the course of his career, has become known as a man of action. While this doesn’t always happen as quickly as I would like, he always follows through on his plans.

Secondly, I feel it is important that we elect a mayor who can bring together the north and south ends of our 20 February 3, 2017

city so that we can grow collectively as opposed to making many of the mistakes that other cities make when they experience rapid growth, which is to create sprawling suburbs and a declining inner city. The only way to vitalize impoverished areas of Lake Charles is going to be for a mayor to develop programs that will help the residents increase their quality of life, income levels, and the value of their property.

Finally, I feel it is important that we elect a mayor with a vision for the city. While many tout their lifelong residency of Lake Charles as a badge of honor, I personally prefer a candidate who has studied and experienced the way that other cities have grown and prospered and who one seeks to implement that vision into our own community.

So, here are a few of the hot button topics that we need to be considering:

for traffic, it is important that a mayor consider what can be done with our existing infrastructure as opposed to creating new projects. For example, what about a turn lane on Ryan Street?

Infrastructure.

In my opinion, this falls into two areas: drainage and roads. We want to be evaluating our next mayor with regard to what he thinks the solutions will be, as well as how he will work with other parish and state governments to execute a solution. Drainage is a much larger issue and a lot has already been invested in a solution. Thus, having a mayor who understands the dynamics between local, parish, and state bodies is important. As

Future Growth.

As mayor, our candidates only have a finite area to consider for growth. I think it will be important that our next mayor capture as much of the future housing growth as possible within the city limits. A revitalized urban area is the best protection against future recession and creates a more manageable infrastructure with a high quality of life.

Projects such as the waterfront and I-10 corridor will be crucial to creating a strong city.

Quality of Life.

As our community grows, it is going to be important that we sustain a strong social base amongst our residents. As Malcolm Gladwell points out in his ground-breaking book, Outliers, a community built around a strong sense of connectedness and a confidence in itself is a thriving community.

This means that the city will be responsible for creating opportunities for our community to get out, meet each other, and take pride in their city. Projects that are currently underway include: biking and walking paths, local art exhibitions and festivals, downtown development, and parks and recreation.

Education, Crime and Community.

It became evident, in the recent mayoral information session, that these three topics can be closely linked. And, it’s not enough to have a strong police force, or excellent schools. We must create a community that believes in itself and works together to promote a sense of responsibility and respect for one another. As such, this crosses over into quality of life.

Our mayor is not going to be able to tackle national issues, such as prayer in school, so we need to evaluate our candidates based on what they can do.

Income.

Not a popular subject, but important. We have the highest local sales tax in the nation. Our next mayor will have to address this. High sales tax, while great when tourists spend money, is bad for residents and local businesses. The next mayor must either figure out how to bring in more tourists, or cut costs and taxes. We need to hear their opinions and plans for how the city will spend, and save, money.

So, we have a lot to consider and a lot at stake. As a resident, it’s your job to do your homework.

Check out the candidates Attend an information session, or call them up. We need to make sure that the legacy of our city is interested to the best qualified candidate, and the only way to do that is for voters to be engaged and informed.

Vol. 8 • No. 19

LC Symphony Concert February 5 Concert 2 of the Classical Concert Series will be held at the Calcasieu Marine Building on Feb. 5. at 3 p.m. There will be a wine and chocolate party before the concert.

For more information, go to www.lcsymphony.com.

ACTS Theatre Presents Carpenters Once More February 8 ACTS presents a special one night performance, Carpenters Once More on Feb. 8 at 7:30 pm at the One Reid Street Theatre in the Nellie Lutcher Cultural District. This 90-minute show features a live musical trib-

ute to the music of Karen and Richard Carpenter and is presented by Lynn and Preston from the Diamond Image in Branson, MO. Tickets are $20.00 for general admission seating and may be purchased online at www.actstheatre.com, at the Lake Charles Civic Center ticket office, Gordon’s Drugs, Hamilton House, Moss Bluff Flower and Gifts, and at our box office on the day of show. For more information contact ACTS at 433ACTS (2287) or www.actstheatre.com.

The Odd Couple February 10-12, 17-19, 24-26 Directed by Denette Delome, the Little Theater presents Neil Simon’s classic comedy, The Odd Couple. For ticket information and times, go to www.thelclt.com.

An Evening with Andrew Lloyd Webber February 17 The Louisiana Choral Foundation will present “An

February Events!

Saturday, February 11: Big Mouth Grand Opening Lake area dentists and orthodontists have sponsored the restoration of one of our favorite exhibits. Please join them at 11 a.m. for the grand reopening of the “Big Mouth” dental exhibit.

Saturday, February 11 Sasol’s Second Saturday Science Show Sasol continues its 5S Project with its “For the Love of Chocolate” program at 11:30 a.m. Presenters will share some chocolate secrets.Llearn how chocolate is made, how it melts and why some candies melt in your mouth and not in your hand.

Tuesday, February 14: Valentine Hearts Make a special Valentine card for someone you love. Materials will be available in the ArtSpace 10:30 a.m. -1 p.m.

Saturday, February 25: Jester Hat Workshop Create a Mardi Gras jester hat to wear using construction paper, scissors and glue.

Classes begin at 11 a.m. and noon and are limited to 25 children, ages 3 and up.

Monday, February 27: Kids News Grand Opening Join us for the grand opening of the new “Kids News” newsroom at 10:45 a.m. Children can report breaking news, community events and give a weather report!

Monday, February 27: Mardi Gras Mask Workshop Design a fun Mardi Gras mask to wear for the parades. Classes begin at 11 a.m. and noon and are limited to 20 children, ages 4 and up.

Monday, February 27: Mardi Gras Jester Float Make your own Mardi Gras jester that pops up from his float. Class begins at 1 p.m. and is limited to 25 children, ages 4 and up.

Tuesday, February 28: Mardi Gras The museum will be CLOSED. 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 $8.50 for children and adults. Admission applies to all workshops and activities. (337) 433-9420 or visit www.swlakids.org.

22 February 3, 2017

Evening with Andrew Lloyd Webber” for its annual dinner and show. The beautiful and dramatic music of Webber will entertain dinner guests Friday, Feb. 17 at 6:30 p.m. in Paxton Hall of the First United Methodist Church in Lake Charles. Chorale members will perform a varietal selection of Webber’s musicals. Reservation deadline is Feb. 14, and seating is limited. Tickets for $35 a seat or a table of 8 for $280 are available at Swicegood Music at (337) 477-2704.

CTC Presents The Lion King February 17-19

The Children’s Theatre Company presents The Lion King at the Benjamin Mount Auditorium in the Central School Arts and Humanities Center, 809 Kirby Street in downtown Lake Charles. The show will run Fri., Feb. 17 and Sat., Feb.19 at 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Feb. 20 at 3 p.m.

Ticket are $15 for adults and $13 for students.Tickets may be purchased on at www.childrenstheatre.cc or by contacting the theatre at (337) 433-7323.

Gumbo Cook-off February 25 The public tastes from every pot of chicken and sausage, seafood or wild game gumbo in a hot contest of more than 50 teams 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) 475-7393.

Vol. 8 • No. 19

Krewe of Omega Parade February 25 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. It is held each year on the Saturday prior to Mardi Gras.

Zydeco Dance February 25 Mambo and Zydeco with live bands, following the Cajun Extravaganza/Gumbo Cook-off and the Krewe of Omega Parade from 3- 5 p.m. at the Civic Center. Everyone gets in on the dancing in the spirit of Mardi Gras!

Krewe of Barkus Parade February 25 A parade of costumed pets and their owners makes for a whimsical, carnival atmosphere. The title of “Mystical Dog” is given to 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 Cosmos Presentation February 25 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 February 25 Celebrate Mardi Gras with the 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.

Children’s Day February 26 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. 7, 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 February 26 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 February 26 All-you-can-eat traditional Louisiana cuisine for a $7 Vol. 8 • No. 19

February 3, 2017 23

admission fee. Taste all the deliciousness Mardi Gras has to offer! 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., LC Civic Center (337) 436-9588.

floats start lining up at 9 a.m. and the parade rolls at 10 a.m. The event concludes with a Zydeco dance. Admission is $10 at the door for adults and $5 for children.

Lighted Boat Parade February 26

Second Line Stroll February 28

Be dazzled by the glowing boat parade on shimmering Lake Charles. Begins at 7 p.m. on the Lakefront Promenade.

Area groups strut their Mardi Gras spirit down Ryan Street to the tunes of Mardi Gras music in this walking parade. Starts at 1 p.m. To participate, visit www. swlamardigras.org for event forms.

Mardi Gras Royal Gala February 27 The Cinderella night of Mardi Gras manifests on Lundi Gras 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., tickets are $5 in advance, $6 at the door, children 5 and under are free. (337) 244-1466.

Iowa Chicken Run February 28 Catch a chicken at the annual Mardi Gras Run on Fat Tuesday at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 503 E Highway 90, in Iowa. Doors open at 8 a.m., the Mardi Gras

Krewe of Krewes Parade February 28 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!

Winter Beer Festival March 4 The Louisiana Winter Beer Festival will be held on March 4 at the Historic Calcasieu Marine National Bank building in downtown Lake Charles. This is the third year for the beer festival featuring over 100 American craft beers, ciders, and meads, as well as live music and local food. Regular admission $50, VIP admission $100. Call (404) 822-5847 for more information.

Empty Bowl Fundraiser March 7 The Salvation Army’s Empty Bowl fundraiser will be Tues., March 7, at L’Auberge Casino and Resort. Headlining the entertainment will be Lake Charles native Paul Groves, internationally renowned singer with colleagues Emily Pulley and Robert Grayson. Thirteen soups will be served by local chefs, and local potters are creating individually handcrafted ceramic bowls for each guest to take home. Individual tickets are $125 and may be obtained by calling (337) 433-4155. Sponsorships of $1,200, $2,500, $5,000, or $10,000 are also still available with each sponsorship getting a reserved table for eight.

Black Heritage Festival March 10-12 If you’re hungry for mouthwatering food, terrific music and family fun, this is the festival for you. Taking place at the Lake Charles Civic Center March 10-12, entertainers will perform gospel, Zydeco, blues, spoken word and more on the Kids and Main Stages. Food booths will serve great tasting Louisiana Creole and traditional African-American foods. The vendor marketplace will be open, and you’ll also be able to enjoy a Kids’ Zone, games, Zydeco aerobics, baby expo/healthy baby contest and more! For more information, visit www.bhflc.org.

24 February 3, 2017

Vol. 8 • No. 19

A L L

T H I N G S

F O O T B A L L

The Season That Was

By Scott Holtzman

So, the football season is coming to an end. Whatever happened to the USFL? Can you say Donald Trump?

When I was in college in the early ‘80s, I really enjoyed watching USFL football.

(Great 30 for 30 on ESPN about it, if you get a chance to watch.) Since I’m not a basketball or baseball fan, it makes for a long offseason.

So here are my thoughts on the season that was.

Kudos to Clemson for knocking off the beast that is Alabama. I love to see Nick Saban get beaten. When he left LSU for Miami, I had mixed feelings. I knew we lost a great coach, but all the talk at the time about him leaving for the pros was distracting, at least for me, anyway. And the fact that he got the Alabama job certainly raised concerns for me, seeing how LSU was going to have to face them every year.

But could anyone have ever imagined him winning at Bama the way he has? Now I think, what if he were still our coach, and we were the ones winning championships? Strange, but I feel like the jilted lover, who just can’t get over the one that got away. Oh, well, I guess some things just aren’t meant to be.

I would love to say that I’m optimistic about LSU’s Vol. 8 • No. 19

chances; however, over the years, I’ve drunk so much of the Kool-Aid, it’s hard for me to be subjective. How good of a coach is Coach O? Is it just about having great assistants, which seemingly LSU does? I agree it was time to let Miles go, not because he wasn’t a great coach, but in my opinion, he was too stubborn to change his ways, even when the handwriting was on the wall.

But back to Saban. He saw the “times a-changing,” and he did. Does Coach O have that in him? If LSU is winning next season, I will still find myself saying, “Yea, but can they beat Bama?” I guess I’ll always say that as long as Saban is there, or until we show we can beat him consistently.

I grew up rooting for the Dallas Cowboys and the Houston Oilers (love ya, Blue). Rodger Staubach was my hero. And I loved watching Earl Campbell run the ball for the Oilers. Full disclosure: I’m a band wagon fan for the Saints. Once Jim Mora got there and turned the team into winners, I jumped on and began rooting for them, and less for the Cowboys. I’m also a fairweather fan quick to jump off the ship once it begins to list.

My take on the Saints is this: you can’t win without a reliable defense. When they

won the Super Bowl, their defense finished middle-of-thepack in the league. They also created a lot of turnovers and pick sixes. With the offense they have, I think they would be a consistent playoff team if they could have the kind of defense they did during the Super Bowl run, which begs the question, why don’t they? Is it draft selections and free agency? That falls on the shoulders of the GM

and Coach. Certainly Sean Payton is an offensive genius.

Does his makeup serve as a hindrance to the defensive side of the ball? Yes, they’ve had lots of injuries on defense, but as they say, every team deals with injuries. One thing is for sure, Drew Brees is not getting any younger.

That’s all for now. In the next article, I’ll give my thoughts on College Signing Day, in particular, LSU.

JAM MARDI GRAS

February 3, 2017 25

Sleuthing Out the Odd Couple at the Oscars Traditionally, I’ve always done an Oscar predictions article after watching all the nominees for Best Motion Picture of the Year. This year, due to the timing between the day of the nominations and the awards show, I’ll be unable to watch them all before this goes to print. Instead, I’ll do the best I can to put my “Sleuth” cap on and send you off to your Oscar pools with my highly subjective and wildly speculative Oscar predictions. “Did she just capitalize the word Sleuth,” you ask? Why yes, dear reader, I did. That’s because the play Sleuth by Peter Shaffer is coming to the stage on my birthday, March 10, and being so delighted they would celebrate my birthday that way (You know I’m kidding right?), I just had to give them a shout out.

If you’re interested in a whodunit chock full of games with a twist, then this mystery is for you. It’s a play set in present-day England being performed on the Lake Charles Little Theatre stage, March 10 and 11 at 7:30 p.m. and March 12 at 2:30 p.m. I’ve been promised lots of special effects mixed with laughter and surprise from lead actors Eric Thibodeaux and Michael Davis. For tickets, check out www.mcneese.edu/ performingartsboxoffice.

Back to the Oscars. The top two movies on everyone’s predictions list are quite the odd pairing. La La Land and Manchester by the Sea are like perfume and diesel fuel, fluffy pillows and sharp gravel, Oscar and Felix.

For those of you who didn’t get 26 February 3, 2017

the “Oscar and Felix” reference, you can come on down and see me play a small role in this month’s play The Odd Couple by Neil Simon. Oscar and Felix are the lead characters.

I will return to my Oscar predictions shortly. but first I just wanted to say that I’ve always left The Odd Couple rehearsal with a smile on my face. So, if you’d like to spend a night laughing as a slob and a neat freak attempt to room together then come on down! Lead actors Greg Stratton and Randy Partin are a hoot and I pop in during the second half, to play a flirty British lady who lives upstairs with her sister. The Odd Couple opens February 10 and continues Feb. 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows are at 2 p.m. on February 12, 19, and 26. Yes, February 26 is Oscar night! Double your entertainment in one day! Get your tickets at www.thelclt.com.

This year, the Oscars fall on February 26, which is a great thing if you get off the Monday before Mardi Gras because the awards show runs notoriously long. Since I’ve yet to see them all, here’s my totally biased picks based a tiny bit on what I’ve heard buzzing through the interwebs until I get a chance to check out every last single one.

Arrival: A sci-fi thriller starring one of my favorite actresses Amy Adams. She plays a linguist called in to decipher an alien code so we can determine if their intentions towards earth are friendly. It feels like a slight to-

wards Ms. Adams that she wasn’t nominated for her intelligent and heartfelt portrayal of professor Louise Banks in this film. But the story elevates this movie from a standard sci-fi flick to a real think piece that will have folks talking over coffee afterwards.

My bet is if this movie will win an award, it will be for Best Writing, Adapted Screenplay if Moonlight doesn’t get it.

Fences: A tale about a former ball player raising his teenage son in 1950s Pittsburgh. His bitterness towards his own fate spills over onto opportunities regarding his son who has caught a football recruiter’s eye. I know a lot of folks who love Denzel Washington, but I don’t think it’s his ball game this time around.

He played the lead role on stage, but when he decided to direct and adapt this play to film, I think he forgot to adapt his acting too. I felt like he was yelling to the very back row of the movie theater instead of bringing us into the character’s inner life that a camera is so adept at capturing.

On the flip side, I can totally see Viola Davis winning for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. What Denzel lacked in variety, Davis made up for from the mundanely quiet to the heights of emotion.

Hacksaw Ridge: A soldier refuses to carry a weapon to protect himself because it’s against his religion to kill people. But he couldn’t stand by not doing anything as the nation went to war so he signs up to serve as a medic on the battlefield. Originally, beaten and despised by his fellow soldiers, he goes on to save hundreds of lives that others left for dead. I cried buckets at the end of this film. If La La Land wasn’t in the race, then Hacksaw Ridge would be my favorite movie so far. (Keep in mind I’ve only seen six films as of print.) That said, if I’m honest, I think its best bet at winning something will be in either the sound editing or sound mixing categories.

Hell or Highwater: One crafty Texas Ranger about to retire closes in on two brothers pulling off a bank heist to stop the foreclosure on the family ranch.

I thought this was well paced and made you think hard about each character’s motivations for doing what they do. Maybe Jeff Bridges will scoop up a little gold man in the Best Supporting Actor category if Mahershala Ali in

Moonlight doesn’t win it.

Hidden Figures: In the space race against Russia in the 1960s, three talented African-American women succeed in the face of racism and sexism while solving vital problems at NASA. This was such a fun movie and especially timely after John Glenn’s death.

I was cheering for these ladies from the first frame to the last.

I predict this film’s best chance is to win Best Writing, Adapted Screenplay, if Moonlight doesn’t win it.

Lion: A man who was separated from his family in India when he was only five years old grows up haunted by resurging memories. So he uses modern technology to begin his global search for his parents. I attended the Austin Film Festival this year and the two films that got all the buzz this October were Lion and La La Land. Time prevented me from seeing this yet, but the trailer looks amazing! I’m gonna make a wild guess here and say its best chances at winning an Oscar will be for the Best Writing, Adapted Screenplay category.

Manchester by the Sea: A handyman grieves over his older brother’s death while struggling with suddenly being his nephew’s new guardian. I have yet to track this one down in Lake Charles.

I’ve heard it’s quite dark and that Casey Affleck and Michelle Williams may have the Oscars locked down in the Best Actor in a Lead Role and Best Actress in a Supporting Role categories. The movie has also been rumored to be a serious contender for the biggest prize of the night.

Moonlight: A young man copes with the poverty and drugs that pervade his neighborhood while establishing his own identity. This movie is on almost every critic’s top ten list this year. I have not seen it yet, but I know Mahershala Ali is buzzed to be a strong contender for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. Moonlight is also in the supposed three-way race for the biggest prize of the night.

La La Land: An aspiring actress and an aspiring jazz club owner fall in love while pursuing their dreams in Los Angeles.

Perhaps you noticed I talked about all these films in alphabetical order except for this one.

And perhaps you noticed the plot seems pretty standard with no Vol. 8 • No. 19

plot twists like Arrival, conflicting situations like Hacksaw Ridge or interesting characters like Hell or High Water. It doesn’t incorporate new technology like Lion (in fact it’s shot to echo nostalgic films of the past) and it doesn’t cover important civil rights issues like Hidden Figures, Fences or Moonlight.

Finally, the number one thing against it is that it’s not a deep, dark drama that Oscar loves so much, like Manchester by the Sea. So what’s the big deal? Why did it win a record-breaking seven Golden Globes? Why is it tied for a record-breaking 14 Oscar nominations? How did this movie make it onto this list anyway? Because it’s a movie about dreams. And dreams speak to the soul. Not just Emma Stone and Ryan’s Goslings dreams, but your dreams and my dreams.

And instead of engaging your head in intricacies of plot, it engages your heart in a colorful daydream awash in memorable melodies. This isn’t your oldfashioned musical. This is set in present day. Gone are the Broadway belters to the back row. Instead, the characters sing softly, as if they were in a coffee shop and their inner thoughts just happened to float out in gentle song. This is a light musical in that there are only five songs in the entire movie. It’s a near perfect blend of new and old, feeling much more like a French film than an American musical.

In a word, it’s unique.

Before I make my last prediction, let me just say that a few years back, I fell in love with the movie American Hustle. It had the most Oscar nominations that year and it walked away with none, zero, zilch, nada. And I know full well how much Oscar favors movies with either history on its side or flat-out drama. But I’m gonna go with my totally biased little heart on this one.

I want La La Land to win Best Picture. Period. Because, if it wins, it will forever be on that Best Picture list and will be watched many decades to come.

Because the world has enough drama in it today. And, because among adults over the age of 25, we have too few dreamers. So, I leave you, dear reader, with the words of its Oscar nominated song, “Here’s to the Ones who Dream.”

Vol. 8 • No. 19

Secret Service Dogs The Heroes Who Protect the President of the United States Such a good dog.

There he is, all wiggles and smiles. Tail swishing to show that he’s happy, alert, and paying attention. Bright eyes indicate intelligence, ears listen to every word you’re saying. Such a good dog, and in Secret Service Dogs by Maria Goodavage, you’ll see that he’s got a very important job to do.

Thomas Jefferson loved to have visitors. He believed that the White House was the People’s House, and so he opened the doors to the Presidential home, “staged exhibitions,” and invited the public in.

Other presidents did the same, to a greater or lesser degree, until open public access ended during World War II, when security needed to be tighter. Over the years, fences and barriers were erected, enhanced, and fortified. And in 1976, one more level of security was added: canines.

Today’s Secret Service dogs are quite different from that first graduating class, some 40 years ago. Then, activeduty dogs were mostly German Shepherds; today, a majority of Emergency Response Team (ERT) dogs are Belgian Malinois from a kennel in Indiana. Dogs in 1976 did everything from security to bomb-sniffing; today’s dogs specialize. In addition to ERT dogs, there’s an Explosive De-

tection Team; and friendlylooking dogs from the Personnel Screening Canines Open Area team, which the Secret Service unofficially calls “Floppy-Eared Dogs,” surreptitiously sniff passersby.

These are the facts. But Maria Goodavage also tells the stories behind them….

There’s Marshall M., the man we meet in the opening of this book, whose Hurricane seems to have ESP. Sergeant Sal, whose Daro was a gentleman in fur.

“Stew,” whose dog, Nero, was a sweetheart – until you “flipped on the light switch.”

Ray Reinhart, an instructor who outwitted a squirrelchaser named Rudy. Dogs with “courage, intelligence, perseverance, trainability… drive” and sociability.

“Wherever the president goes,” says Goodavage, “there will be dogs. They’ll be there no matter what the country or state… regardless of the political climate, the danger level, the weather, or the hour.”

For most people, the sight of a dog on government property is nothing unusual; there are even times when an absence is more notable. If you’ve ever wondered about those canine soldiers, then Secret Service Dogs is your book. There’s a lot to love about it.

Because of the nature of the dogs’ work, author Maria

Goodavage says, repeatedly, that many details about her subjects are things the Secret Service doesn’t release, for reasons of security. With that in mind, Goodavage does a stellar job with the information she has; readers are educated as thoroughly as possible on nearly every aspect of these “heroes” and their work. Then, and in between, we’re introduced to a human side of these dogs and their handlers: the care and love, the relationships, the losses, and the quirks that happen in their unusual lives.

You’ll also find some heart-pounders, a few tears, and the words “best dog,” which will appeal to currentevents fans and dog lovers alike. If that’s you, then look for Secret Service Dogs.

Such a good book.

“Secret Service Dogs: The Heroes Who Protect the President of the United States”

By Maria Goodavage, foreword by Clint Hill ©2016, Dutton $28 / $37 Canada 306 pages February 3, 2017 27

Thursday, feb. 3 Amanda Walker

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Michael Krajicek 8 p.m. @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Swagger 9 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Fortag 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

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

Kadillacs 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Saturday, feb. 4 Amanda Walker

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Michael Krajicek 8 p.m. @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Danny Dillon 8 p.m. @ Lucky Longhorn Casino 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton

Triggerproof 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 28 February 3, 2017

777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Swagger 9 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Fortag 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ San-D 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Sunday, feb. 5 Bryan Trahan

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Fortag 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Trivial Tuesdays Live Team Trivia 7:30 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St.

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

Josh Taylor 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Wednesday, feb. 8 Chester Daigle

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Friday, feb. 10 Julie Williams

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Chester and Jairus Daigle

Southern Roots

Whacky Wednesday with DJ Mark

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

7 p.m. @ Cajuns Wharf 3500 Ryan St, Lake Charles

Caleb Paul 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Tuesday, feb. 7

9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC

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

8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Big Richard South

Chris Miller & The Bayou Roots

Street Side Jazz Trio

Brittany Pfantz

8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

8 p.m. @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Monday, feb. 6 Stacy Bearden

Rapture

Thursday, feb. 9 Julie Williams

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Kevin Lambert

Bernie Alan

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

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

Rapture 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Kaos 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Saturday, feb. 11 Julie Williams

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Kevin Lambert 8 p.m. @ L-Bar

L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Kenny Rogers

8 p.m. @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at Hwww. ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 7453000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

Bronco Jr 8 p.m. @ Lucky Longhorn Casino 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton

Southern Roots 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Kaos 9 p.m.– 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Rapture 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Paws teh Cat 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Sunday, feb. 12 Jamie Bergeron & the Kickin’ Cajuns

3 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Kevin Lambert 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge Vol. 8 • No. 19

Rapture 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Tuesday, feb. 14 Chip Radford

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Trivial Tuesdays Live Team Trivia 7:30 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St.

2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Wednesday, feb. 15 Chester Daigle

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Chris Miller & The Bayou Roots

Bryan Trahan

DJ Verrett

6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

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

Dane Monic

DJ Jose Mata

DJ Jose Mata

Monday, feb. 13

8 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Trey Rose 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Vol. 8 • No. 19

8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Roger Tienkden 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort

8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Kory Fontenot 8 p.m. @L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Thursday, feb. 16

Katie Whitney & Chip Radford 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar

L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Warren Storm, Willie Tee & Cypress 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Anteeks 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Kevin Lambert 8 p.m. @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Thomas Teague 8 p.m. @ Lucky Longhorn Casino 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton

DJ Jose Mata

DJ Jose Mata

9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

10:30 p.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Chase Taylor

Allison Collins

9 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Friday, feb. 17

Troy Laz Band

Katie Whitney & Chip Radford

9 p.m. @ Mikko Live

February 3, 2017 29

Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

LA Yard Dogs

DJ Jose Mata

Joan Jett

& the Blackhearts

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

8 p.m. @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www. ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 7453000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

Kevin Lambert

Troy Laz Band

8 p.m. @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

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

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

Saturday, feb. 18

Katie Whitney & Chip Radford

Head Games...

Finding ways to stay creative can be a challenge for any artist. Even some of the greats have found themselves delving into other forms of artistic expression. Jefferson Airplane’s Grace Slick has taken up painting as of late and even Bob Dylan has hosted shows of visual art (namely, a large number of metalworking projects) domestically and abroad for a number of years now, so it should come as no surprise that a couple of the members of the current lineup of Foreigner have found some creative hobbies outside of cranking out hits like “Juke Box Hero” or “Urgent” to the screaming masses. They have found theirs in making up some of that lovely liquid bread better known as BEER, and 30 February 3, 2017

9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Allison Collins 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

The Slags 9 p.m.@ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Kenneth Espree

Sunday, feb. 19 Stacy Bearden

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

The Strangers Matthew Rich 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort

Monday, feb. 20

9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

their new brewing venture just so happens to be a pretty big deal for the Lake City.

To spin the dial back a bit, the band we now know as Foreigner rose from the ashes of The Leslie West Band, whose collapse left English-born guitarist and songwriter Mick Jones living in New York City without a band to call his own in early 1976. Jones then began seeking out some new blood around which he could build a new act. In a short time, he’d lined up fellow Britons Ian McDonald and Dennis Elliot along with keyboardist Al Greenwood, bassist Ed Gagliardi and vocalist Lou Gramm and by the end of that year, a contract with Atlantic Records marked the beginning of a musical legacy that has since seen four top ten album’s, nine top ten singles and global sales exceeding 80 million copies.

Throughout the years of any long-

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

American Kidz 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Tuesday, feb. 21 Kay Miller

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

lasting act, lineups are sure to change and that has certainly been the case for Foreigner; however, two hop heads for certain can be counted amongst the fellas today: keyboardist Michael Bluestein and guitarist Bruce Watson, who have gotten so geeky about that beloved brew that they have both just finished getting their Certified Beer Server certifications and have started their own quest of visiting as many breweries as they can whilst out touring the nation. It was that pilsnerpaved highway that led the guys to have their manager, industry veteran Phil Carson, reach out and ask the Crying Eagle crew if the fellas could stop in for a visit. Obviously, the answer was a resounding yes.

While basking in the great news another idea popped up, this time from the Crying Eagle camp: If these guys are that into beer and they’re coming by anyway… Why don’t we make a beer?

Vol. 8 • No. 19

Sofa Kingz 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Wednesday, feb. 22 Chester Daigle

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Caleb Paul 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Mason Fedducia 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub

L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Thursday, feb. 23 Mason Fedducia & Jake Spinella

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Todd O’Neill 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

The Fuse 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort

Another phone call back to Carson with the invite and the plan was in motion for the guys to not only stop by and visit, but to create the latest addition to Crying Eagle’s line-up, oh so appropriately called…. Hop Blooded.

It Feels Like the First Time...

“This is absolutely our first beer experience and we are so excited!” said Bluestein who has been manning the keys for the band since 2008.

“In the burgeoning craft beer scene, it’s always a treat to get a firsthand look into the magical brewing process

2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Michael Krajicek

No Idea

Nigel Edison

8 p.m. @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

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

9 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Friday, feb. 24 Mason Fedducia & Jake Spinella

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

DJ Jose Mata

Sara Evans 8:30 p.m. @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www. ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

and, of course taste the fruits of their labor.”

Brewmaster Bill Mungai and crew welcomed the guys to Crying Eagle on January 27, the day of their sold-out performance at Golden Nugget and began crafting what is described as a “full-flavored, dry-hopped IPA that will feature a blend of seven different hops.” Fans gathered and watched the process from the fully windowed lobby and balcony as the guys sampled some test offerings and components that would eventually comprise Hop Blooded. Mungai stated afterwards that the rockers “seemed as excited

9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Fortag 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

The Fuse 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort

to brew with me as I was with them.

They were super cool and very interested in the brewing process. I offered them both a chance to come and work at the brewery when they get off tour.

We’ll see if they take me up on that!”

And while the addition of Bluestein and Watson to the roster of the Crying Eagle crew may be unlikely, we certainly can expect to see them back in the Lake City at some point, hopefully for the release of Hop Blooded when it arrives at Crying Eagle later this year.

Until then keep rockin’… and keep that beer a’coming’!

Something is Happening Here...

Saturday, February 4 - Creedence Clearwater Revisited, Delta Downs Racetrack and Casino A longtime industry vet and talent buyer friend of mine told me years ago: “If you want Fogerty, then book Fogerty, but if you want Creedence, then book Revisited.” Featuring former CCR members Stu Cook and Doug “Cosmo” Clifford, this show delivers all the Creedence you’ll want to hear! Want some Creedence? Then GO SEE THIS SHOW! Sunday, February 5 - Lake Charles Symphony Concert #2, Historic Calcasieu Marine Bank It’ll be “Big Game” day and all, but the Symphony has a classy and cultural way to get the day going. The LCS will be featuring a Champagne and Chocolate reception to be followed by their second show of the season featuring Grieg’s Holberg Suite, Barber’s Adagio for Strings and Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for strings, all bathed in the ambiance of the Historic Calcasieu Marine Ballroom. And don’t worry… you’ll still be home in time to catch the game. GO SEE THIS SHOW!!

You’re As Cold as Ice...

Cause if it’s not cold, it’s just not beer, right?

A big congratulations is going out to the Crying Eagle crew for the auspicious company they’re keeping in recent days. I REALLY can’t wait to try out Hop Blooded for myself. I’m sure it’ll be a big HIT! That’s going to do it for this months edition of JMLC! I’ll see you all back here post Mardi Gras and until then… I will SEE YOU AT THE SHOW!!!

Vol. 8 • No. 19

February 3, 2017 31

2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Coy Planchard

Fortag

2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Trey Rose

Killawatts

8 p.m. @ Lucky Longhorn Casino 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton

9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Jose Mata

8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

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

saturday, feb. 25 Mason Fedducia & Jake Spinella

The Fuse 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

No Idea

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

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

Kevin Lambert

DJ Jose Mata

8 p.m. @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

32 February 3, 2017

Paws teh Cat

9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

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

Monday, feb. 27

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Bernie Alan

sunday, feb. 26 Kenneth Espree

5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

The Fuse 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort

Tuesday, feb. 28 Chip Radford

Stacy Bearden

Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Roadrunners 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

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

Roger Tienkden 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort

Vol. 8 • No. 19

Vol. 8 • No. 19

February 3, 2017 33

KREWE DE BONS AMIS BALL It was a swashbuckling night as this Krewe of “Good Friends” celebrated 12 years of Mardi Gras fun! This year’s Royal Court included the Duke and Duchess of The Black Pearl: Jimmy and Jackie Bastow, Duke and Duchess of The Underworld: Ryan and Tracy Doucet and this year’s King Henry and Queen Anne: Aaron and Suzanne May. Congrats to this years court and may you all “passes un bon Mardi Gras”

Jackie and Jimmy Bastow

Aaron and Suzanne May

Shannon and Fara Cloud with Michella Fordham

Charles and Leslie Cubbage with Christine Draper

Ryan and Tracy Doucet

FOREIGNER VISITS CRYING EAGLE TO MAKE ‘HOP BLOODED’ BEER How do rock legends like the guys from Foreigner pass their free time on the road? By visiting breweries, of course! At least that’s the case for Michael Bluestein and Bruce Watson who stopped by the Chuck’s happening new suds supplier to create the first ever Foreigner beer “Hop Blooded” before their January 27 show at Golden Nugget. Cheers!

Scott and Tara Richard

John O’Donnell and Shawn Chamblee

34 February 3, 2017

Kelly McDevitt and Chris Culotta

Ryan Borque, Kevin Johnson and Jeremy Babineaux

Kalee Jones, Tony Guillory and Keclie Sonnier with Michael Bluestein and Bruce Watson of Foreigner Vol. 8 • No. 19

TRACY LAWRENCE AT GOLDEN NUGGET

Jennifer Schexneider with Heather and Jon Hebert

Heath Hickman and Joshua Smith

Chris McGuirt, Kathryn Holmes and Jessica Venable

Kristi Bult and Maureen Kelly

It was a night of shined-up buckles and Stetson hats at GNLC as Grammy nominated and platinum certified artist Tracy Lawrence made his return to Southwest Louisiana! He entertained a packed house revisiting breakout hits such as “Alibis” and “Sticks and Stones” while serving up some newer hits. Hope to catch him again next time!

Dawn Beard, Brittany Miller and Lydia Ogea

MSU COWGIRLS VS UCA SUGAR BEARS - SLC BASKETBALL Southland Conference action was back in the Lake Charles Civic Center as the MSU Womens Basketball team hit the hardwood against the University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears, and it was a hard fought match for the Lady Pokes. UCA entered the matchup 7-2 in the conference with the Cowgirls coming in at 5-4. The Bears had a bit of foul trouble putting up 5 team fouls and the Cowgirls stepped it up in the second half but just couldn’t overcome UCA’s offense and gave it up 72 to 49. Wishing the gals better luck on the road next against Lamar on Saturday!

Dale Mann and Aaron Ladd Vol. 8 • No. 19

Richard and Austin Stutes

Camille Wolfe and Madelyn Robles

Brylee Fontenot and Samantha LeJeune

Chad Trosclair and Elyse Legros February 3, 2017 35