The Jambalaya News - 02/11/16, Vol. 7, No. 20

2 February 11, 2016

Vol. 7 • No. 20

February 11, 2016 • Volume 7 • Issue 20

715 Kirby St. Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262

On Cover: Tiffany Bordelon and her Bridesmaids

www.thejambalayanews.com

COVER 18 Tiffany and Dusty: A Romantic Destination Wedding

Publisher/Executive Editor Lauren Abate

REGULARS 6 We Are SWLA!

lauren@thejambalayanews.com

8 Contributors Lisa Addison Dan Ellender Julie Ann Fay Roger Miller Justin Morris Terri Schlichenmeyer David Yantis

Sales sales@thejambalayanews.com

Graphics Art/Production Director Burn Rourk Business Office Manager Jeanie Rourk

Huntin’ Tales

10 This Functional Family 11

20 Adoption Corner FEATURES 12 Wedding Checklist 14 Get Insurance for Your Ring 16 Weddings Do’s and Don’ts

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17 Destination Wedding Tips

THE SPICE OF SWLA 20 Chateau du Calcasieu Event Center

24 Family Fun Night at the Movies 25 Bookworm Sez… 26 Acting Up! 27 Who is Renn Loren?

28 Nightlife Guide

Vol. 7 • No. 20

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Stir Dat Pot

22 Event Guide

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

The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by Jambalaya Media, LLC, 715 Kirby Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601.

Phone (337) 436-7800. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The Jambalaya News cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a self-addressed envelope. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

Copyright 2014 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved.

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

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30 Justin Morris’s Lake Charles

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33 Funbolaya 34 Society Spice

February 11, 2016 3

Remembering

Gayle Cline

I met Gayle Cline shortly after I moved here. We both went to the same hair salon and started talking one day. I mentioned that my husband was a former Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus clown, and it turned out that she was a longtime member of Circus Fans of America. She simply adored the circus and loved elephants. So of course they had to meet. We became fast friends with her and her fabulous husband, Tip. When we were asked to be King and Queen of Krewe Déjà Vu du Monde in 2008, we chose the theme “Circus Circus.” Naturally, we had to ask Gayle and Tip to be a Duke and Duchess: the Lion and the Lion Tamer. Gayle loved Mardi Gras and she and Tip were thrilled. A few years later, they were crowned King

4 February 11, 2016

and Queen of Deja Vu and “The Kingdom” was born: a group of friends who met every Tuesday for food and libations, and whenever else we could meet, just because.

Gayle was simply wonderful. She was descended from the early settlers of the area, and could trace her lineage all the way back to the family of Anne Boleyn. She seemed to be related to everyone around here.

And if she wasn’t related to them, she knew a story, or two, about them. And it was usually colorful. I loved sitting at Gayle’s table, sipping a drink and listening to her. You were never bored. She had the funniest expressions and kept everyone laughing.

Her favorite expression was “God don’t like ugly.” She’d give you a “look” and impart that piece of

wisdom if she thought you were being unkind. I think everyone who knew her heard that at one time or another. Another one was “I’m up to my ears in alligators” to describe how busy she was.

“Gayle Cline is the busiest person I’ve ever met who doesn’t work,” Blane Bourgeois said about her. And it was true. She didn’t work, but she was always busy with the various boards she was on, all of her projects, her beloved family and God knows what else. She was high energy and never stopped moving—until the evening. Then, it was time to rest. Another Gayle tradition: She always wore a watch, and she’d tap on it when she and Tip were out and it was Time to Go. I believe the magic number was 9:30 p.m., so she could be in bed by 10.

She might not sleep for a few hours, but she wanted to be In the House.

But when she was up, it was an adventure. We’d go to the circus whenever it was in town, or in Lafayette, and I rode my first (and only) elephant with her. At the circus, she’d always wear a vest autographed by all the clowns and circus performers she’d met through the years, and her eyes would shine with excitement when she talked about them. If it weren’t for the Greatest Show on Earth and Phil being a clown, we never would have met. One of the things in life that was just meant to be.

She adored Mardi Gras as much as the circus, and decorated

her house beautifully every year, complete with vintage posters and a Mardi Gras tree. Tip says the day before she died, she asked if the lights on her tree were on.

And now she’s gone. I still can’t believe it; none of us can. She passed in the middle of her favorite season, leaving us with fond, fond memories and sad smiles. I know that today, Fat Tuesday 2016, she’s doing the Second Line and twirling her umbrella on the other side. Until we meet again, dear Gayle. I’m so glad you were in my life.

Lauren Abate

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Vol. 7 • No. 20

February 11, 2016 5

Bruney Named Administrator at WCCH’s Home Health Agency West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is pleased to announce that Pamela Bruney, RN, BSN, has been named administrator for WCCH’s Home Health Agency. In her new role, Bruney works with staff, physicians, and administrators on the care plans for patients. A resident of Lake Charles, Bruney holds a bachelor of science degree in nursing and a degree in business, both from McNeese State University. Prior to being named adminis- Pamela Bruney, RN, BSN trator of WCCH’s Home Health Agency, she served as a Registered Nurse at the agency for five years, and prior to that, served in the hospital’s intensive care unit for more than 18 years.

McNamara Joins First Federal Investments

Phillips 66 Awards Grant to Westlake High School

Frank McNamara has joined First Federal Investments as an Investment Executive. His office is located at the Sulphur Office of First Federal Bank of Louisiana, 2250 Maplewood Drive. McNamara is a Financial Advisor and comes to First Federal Bank of Louisiana after having served the majority of his 18-year career at Capitol One Investments. He holds licenses as a securities representative (Series 7, 63, and 66 registrations) in addition to insurance licenses Frank McNamara for life, health and annuities, and is registered as an Investment Advisor Representative (IAR).

McNamara was born and raised in Orange, TX, where he graduated from Lamar University in 1986 with a bachelor of science degree in secondary education. He moved to the Lake Area almost 30 years ago, and currently lives in south Lake Charles with his wife Linda and their daughter. They also have two sons serving in the U.S. military.

The Phillips 66 Lake Charles Manufacturing Complex recently awarded a $35,000 educational grant to Westlake High School to enhance classroom technology. The money will be used to purchase Promethean Boards for 22 classrooms. Now, all classrooms are equipped with the interactive whiteboards that engage students in the learning experience.

City Recreation and Parks Receives Grant for Park Project Rain CII Carbon, through their partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association, recently executed a $3,000 grant for the City of Lake Charles Recreation and Parks Department. The funding provided for a community project, which included new dugout benches and also picnic tables as part of an upgrade at College Oaks Park, located at 3518 Ernest Street in Lake Charles. The grant is part of an ongoing partnership with the City of Lake Charles.

LC Toyota Donates to Family & Youth Lake Charles Toyota donated $5,000 in sponsorship of the 2016 Family and Youth Legislative Breakfast held on January 21 at L’Auberge Casino Resort. Individuals were able to meet one-on-one, with the Southwest Louisiana Legislative Delegation to discuss issues affecting our lives, our businesses, and our community.

Legislators discussed issues related to children and families with mem- L to R: Eric Tarver; Manager of LC Toyota and Julio Galan; President & CEO of Family & Youth bers of the community.

Local Orthopedic Surgeon Earns Specialized Certification Lake Charles Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Alan Hinton recently passed the 2015 American Board of Orthopedic Surgery Combined Sports Medicine Examination. In order to obtain this special certification, Dr. Hinton was required to complete a written exam, as well as submit surgical case reviews. Dr. Hinton is a graduate of McNeese State University and LSU School of Medicine. He specializes in orthopedic care and sports medicine and has practiced in the Lake Charles area for over 20 years. Dr. Hinton’s medical practice is located at 230 West Sale Road in Lake Charles. For more information, call (337) 477-5252.

Dr. Alan Hinton

SWLA CVB Releases Videos

L to R: LC Mayor Randy Roach; Karla Edwards, Rain CII HR Liaison; Jennifer Grigsby, Rain CII PR and Curtis Brignac, I&E Lead 6 February 11, 2016

The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) recently released five videos to help visitors understand the five main categories of activities that they can experience in the area. To showcase the top five features in sharable ways, the bureau created videos with locals talking about Southwest Louisiana from different perspectives: Outdoor Adventures, Nightlife/Casinos, Vol. 7 • No. 20

History & Culture, Family Fun & Festivals, and Foodies. The videos are available on YouTube as well as on VisitLakeCharles.org. For more information, go to www.visitlakecharles.org/Top5Videos.

AT&T Donates to McNeese AT&T, as part of the AT&T Aspire initiative, announced a $15,000 contribution to the McNeese State University Foundation to provide 10 engineering scholarships to eligible undergraduate students seeking a bachelor’s degree in engineering with a focus in chemical, civil, electrical or mechanical engineering. Academically qualified first generation college students and under-represented student populations are encouraged to apply for the scholarships.

SOWELA Expands Internship Program SOWELA Technical Community College expanded its internship program to better serve student needs and employer demand.

The expansion includes joining the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) to connect students with job opportunities and to build College-wide internship guidelines based on the U.S. Department of Labor’s recommendations. Students and employers can now access job search tips, internship opportunities, procedures and more on the newly launched microsite www.sowela.edu/internships. Both credit and non-credit internship programs are available.

To hire a SOWELA intern or for more information, contact Internship Coordinator Dr. David Shankle at David.Shankle@sowela.edu or at (337) 421-6988.

Golden Nugget Donates to Chamber SWLA The Golden Nugget donated $42,000 to the Chamber SWLA as part of their 2016 Presenting Sponsorship of the Chamber SWLA Banquet, which was held on January 28 at the Golden Nugget.

L to R: McNeese President Dr. Philip Williams; Richard H. Reid; vice president for university advancement and executive vice president for the McNeese Foundation; Britt Guillory, AT&T employee sponsorship program sales executive; Jan Waguespack, AT&T client solutions executive, and state Sens. Dan W. “Blade” Morrish (R-Jennings) and Ronnie Johns (R-Sulphur). McNEESE PHOTO

Clemons Appointed to Judicial Council Todd S. Clemons was recently appointed to the Judicial Council of the Louisiana Supreme Court for a three-year term. The council is an advisory and oversight body for the Judicial Branch of government to study and monitor the operations for the court system and identify areas for improvement. Clemons founded Todd Clemons and Associates in 2007. Previously, he served as a federal prosecutor with the U.S. Department of Justice, a Judge Pro Tem on the Todd Clemons 14th Judicial District Court as well as an assistant district attorney for Calcasieu Parish. Clemons received his undergraduate degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and graduated magna cum laude from Southern University Law Center.

L to R: Golden Nugget Food and Beverage Director Robert Ivey, SWLA Alliance President/CEO George Swift, Chamber VP Paula Ramsey, and Golden Nugget Director of Catering & Convention Services Corey Briggs

CITGO Employees Give 17 Percent of United Way’s SWLA Regional Goal CITGO Lake Charles Refinery employees recently gave more than $696,000 to United Way SWLA, raising more than 17 percent of the United Way regional goal of $4 million. The funds were raised by employees during the 2015 annual CITGO United Way SWLA, “Together We Stand” campaign that took place during the fall. CITGO employees contribute to United Way through its annual campaign and CITGO continues to be the largest benefactor of the organization, having donated more than $13.4 million since 1975. Employees’ donations go directly to United Way and help run the 28 United Way agencies and 53 programs in Southwest Louisiana.

Vol. 7 • No. 20

February 11, 2016 7

Photos by Chris Romero

Chasseur De Oui aka Hunting Light Geese

Aaron Snatic

8 February 11, 2016

The 2016 Big Duck season ended January 17, Canadian Goose season ended January 31, Speckle Belly Goose season ended February 7. Fortunately, Aaron Snatic and I closed out big Duck, snuck in a Canadian Goose hunt at the close of regular goose season and ended it all in a two-day trek on the 13th and 18th of January.

After the end of regular waterfowl season we have what is known as the “Conservation Order for Light Geese Season.”

“Goose Lite Season,” as I tag it, runs from February 8 to March 6. It’s named a Conservation Order because there are just too many light geese eating up their Canadian nesting habit.

To reduce those numbers, almost all things outlawed during the regular season become legal.

Shooting time runs from one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset. Electronic calls of geese cackling in a feeding frenzy become boom-box legal. Shotgun shell limiting plugs in the guns are no longer necessary. That’s correct, no plugs. There

are no bag limits, but the season is limited to just shooting Snows, Blues and Ross’s Geese. To be exactly sure what was illegal and is now legal, pick up the specific outlaw, but nowlegal, Light Goose special season legal guide brochure. With that in hand, along with your regular hunting license, you can be sure not to miss something illegal that is now legal. Got it?

This tale begins well back in the days when I had the honor of hunting with noted waterfowlers Dr. Harry Snatic and his brother, pharmacist Jules Snatic, all in the Big Lake area. Mud-boats had replaced shooting from the steamboat Borealis Rex, punt boats were now illegal and the Snatic brothers were training their sons so I could have the honor of hunting with Jules’s grandson, Aaron.

This time, we were headed to my old goose hunting grounds just northeast of Thornwell, Louisiana, east of Highway 14 and north of what was once Pettijean Farms and The Lacassine Company.

Aaron had come my Vol. 7 • No. 20

hunting and a love of teaching.

Alas and alack, the geese were bodied up about six miles east of us. Some kindly soul scared them up, so we saw the first action of the morning. Aaron’s goose call cackled sweet nothings to the specs and after much evasion, they set their wings in to us--on Aaron’s side, that is, so we doubleteamed one and only pulled down two others.

Now it was time to work the “Light Colored Geese.”

Nothing much was working as the bodied up geese had now shifted further east and north of us. So, we waited on a miracle. And waited.

And waited some more. Pas rien. Suddenly, there was a loud boom and down tumbled a snow goose--on Aaron’s side yet again. Three specs and a snow goose do a gumbo make even if I could only claim half a goose.

I’d promised a dear friend and now retired teacher Brenda Bachrack (Miss Brenda of KPLC’s Romper Room School fame), that I would someday make a gumbo for her and visit her beloved Golden Retriever Sandy. Thanks to Aaron’s three and a half goose gifted kindness, I could do both.

Lily I have to do Snatic All now to make a fourth generation hunt is to head out with Aaron and his daughter Lily.

Now THAT would be an all’s well that ends well Oui season.

way via his LaGrange High School classmate and local CPA Greg Naquin. Greg, son Brandon and their Golden Retriever extraordinaire Candy had taken me hunting east of Rockefeller Federal Game Reserve during the first split. This time, Aaron and I trekked down old highway 90 to Welsh, then took highway 382 south to the old goose hunting grounds of my youth. What had once been rice fields with an occasional farm house had become seemingly endless crayfish farms set between an ever expanding rural suburbia.

At least they still grew rice in the area.

Aaron had been a guest lecturer as needed in Environmental Science and Anatomy Physiology Lab at McNeese State University until the Jindal era higher ed cuts shot him down.

With the last hired first fired, Aaron ended that career only to become the science/math teacher in northern Allen Parish’s Elizabeth High School. Seems Aaron and I shared a passion for

Vol. 7 • No. 20

Shane, Roger, Jeanette & Glenn

February 11, 2016 9

Be Grateful The deliberate act of gratitude. It’s something that all of us should feel when we get up every morning for simply being given the gift of another day. The definition of gratitude is basic but beautiful: “The quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.”

I thought it interesting when I read Oprah Winfrey’s list of 20 things she’s grateful for because the list was filled with such simple things. You might even find some of your own favorites on her list; I did.

Here’s what she said about feeling grateful: “In the best of times and the worst of times, I know for sure, this life is a gift.

10 February 11, 2016

Yes, I recognize that I get to live on a big scale. But in the end the only difference between being famous and not is that more people know my name. When it comes to what really matters - what makes us laugh and cry, grieve and yearn, delight and rejoice - we aren’t so different from one another.”

Well, aside from her millions of dollars, that is. But when you think about it, aren’t most of the things we’re truly grateful for pretty simple?

I know that my “gratitude list” is filled with fairly straightforward things: God’s grace, my children, good health, great music, good books, delicious food, having a roof over our heads,

family, friends.

When it comes to gratitude, here’s Oprah’s list of 20 of her favorite things: 1. Planting vegetables in my garden.

2. Making blueberry-lemon pancakes on Sunday mornings for Stedman (her boyfriend of many years) It never fails to delight him - like he’s 7 every time.

3. An off-leash romp on the front lawn with all five dogs.

4. A rainy day, a chill in the air, a blazing fire in the fireplace.

5. Picking vegetables from my garden.

6. A great book.

7. Reading in my favorite place on Earth: under my oaks.

8. The spinach, goat cheese, and

herb pizza at ABC Kitchen in New York City.

9. Tazo’s Passion Tea, with a little lemon and fresh mint.

10. Cooking vegetables from my garden.

11. A drink handmade by my pal Eddie.

12. Sleeping until my body wants to wake up.

13. Waking up to the real twitter: birds.

14. A workout so strong, my whole body breathes.

15. Eating vegetables from my garden.

16. Being still.

17. Embracing silence.

18. Listing to Snatam Kaur’s version of “Ong Namo.”

19. Scones at the Hotel Bel-Air. If Queen Elizabeth only knew, she’d eat no others.

20. Gratitude as a daily spiritual practice. Every day I bless my life by counting my blessings.

It’s true that we all share the same heart space. We just fill it with different things.

If you want to be more mindful of all the things you’re grateful for, start making a list of what fills your soul with gratitude and if you’re like me, you’ll soon realize just how very fortunate you are.

Studies have shown that we can even deliberately cultivate gratitude, and can increase our well-being and happiness by doing so. In addition, gratefulness - and especially expression of it to others - is associated with increased energy, optimism and empathy. Good stuff. And more things to be grateful for!

Lisa Addison wrote her first short story when she was 7 years old and hasn’t stopped writing since. She has two young children, enjoys trying new recipes, and loves going on adventures with her kids. She blogs at: http:// swlamama.wordpress.com.

Vol. 7 • No. 20

Stir Fry Time!

Hello, everybody!

Well, Super Bowl and Fat Tuesday are behind us and it’s time for Lent in beautiful Southwest Louisiana. It’s easy to adhere to in our part of the country because of the abundance of available fresh seafood. Sometimes, I just can’t decide what will suit my mood. But shrimp never fails me.

Plus, I always seem to have some handy. What I also seem to always have handy is leftover rice. Partly because I don’t know how to make a small pot of rice. Who around here does that?

That being said, a nice Shrimp Stir Fry is just the right thing at the right time.

What You’ll Need

2-3 pounds of peeled and deveined shrimp (you pick the size) 2 eggs (raw) 1 onion (sliced into strips) 1 green bell pepper (sliced into strips) 1 red bell pepper (sliced into strips) 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2-3 cup leftover rice 2 tablespoons olive oil

What You’ll Do

In a large non-stick skillet, heat the oil for about one minute on medium to high heat, then add the garlic and shrimp. Toss them around for a bit and then add the veggies.

When the shrimp start to go pink, add the soy sauce, toss, then add the rice. Stir evenly and then add the eggs. Stir again and cover for about three minutes. Uncover, stir and then pour into a large serving dish and place on the table and dig in!

You can also step this up a notch by adding more veggies such as squash, bean sprouts, bamboo shoots, etc. You can also do this with leftover chicken or pork.

So fry some up today and don’t forget to--Stir Dat Pot!!!

Vol. 7 • No. 20

February 11, 2016 11

Congratulations! You’re engaged! Now it’s time to plan your wedding. There’s a lot to do and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But if you follow this timetable, you should be fine.

10–12 Months To Go Work out your budget and establish your top priorities— where to save/where to splurge.

• Get ideas! Start browsing bridal blogs and magazines to identify your wedding style and color scheme.

• Compile your preliminary guest list.

• Choose your wedding party—the special people in your lives that you want by your

side when you say “I do.”

• Find a venue for your ceremony and reception, and reserve your date.

• Now that you have a date, tell everyone to save it! Send out Save-the-Date cards or emails.

Or create your own wedding website, and let your invitees know about it.

• Start looking for your wedding gown and accessories.

Begin looking for vendors, including: • Caterer • Photographer/ Videographer • Officiant • Florist • DJ/Band • Cake Designer

• Wedding Planner?

(If you’re getting stressed, you may want to hire one!)

Make sure you attend a bridal show, if possible. You can make some good connections and get a lot of ideas.

6–9 Months To Go • Continue researching, interviewing and booking vendors. When you hire one, make sure everything is in writing.

• Decide on arrangements with your floral designer • Do a tasting and choose your wedding cake and the groom’s cake.

• Pick out bridesmaids’ gowns.

• Start thinking about your honeymoon!

• Create your gift registry.

• Go over bridal shower and bachelor/bachelorette party details.

• Decide on your wedding invitations.

3–5 Months To Go • Book rehearsal dinner (groom’s family usually pays).

Put together rehearsal dinner guest list.

• If not part of the venue package, reserve table linens, etc.

• Pick out wedding favors, guest book, cake cutter, etc.

• Shop for and reserve men’s formalwear.

12 February 11, 2016

• Finalize wedding invitations.

Will the same people be doing your thank-you cards as well?

Will you have a wedding program? Place cards?

• Finalize guest list and get everyone’s snail mail addresses.

• Work on the wedding ceremony and vows.

• Work on menu, beverage, etc. details with your caterer.

• Shop for and purchase wedding rings.

• Finalize honeymoon plans and make sure your passports are up to date if you’re leaving the country.

6–8 Weeks To Go • Do a trial run for your hair and makeup.

• Mail your invitations and make sure you have a system for recording RSVPs. • Touch base with your vendors to confirm date, details and deposits.

• Look into marriage license and name change requirements.

• Begin your dress fittings. Buy the appropriate undergarments in advance.

• Make sure your wedding party has ordered everything Vol. 7 • No. 20

they need.

• Write thank-you notes for your shower gifts.

• Finalize honeymoon and wedding night accommodations.

3–5 Weeks To Go • Send out rehearsal dinner invitations.

• Go over song list with DJ/ band for ceremony and reception.

• Go over timeline for reception.

• Get marriage license.

• Pick up wedding rings!

• Purchase gifts for wedding party.

• Have your final dress fitting.

• Make sure you have something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue.

1–2 Weeks To Go • Give final count to the caterer.

• Arrange seating and create seating chart, if applicable.

• Pick up your gown.

• Finalize wedding timeline

Vol. 7 • No. 20

with your vendors and wedding party.

• Start packing for your honeymoon.

The Day Before • Figure out tips and final payments for vendors. Put them in clearly marked envelopes and give them to the Best Man or someone you trust to hand out at the reception.

• Put someone in charge of your gifts the day of the wedding. Someone also needs to be in charge of packing up your belongings after the reception.

• Attend the rehearsal and dinner and give out wedding party gifts.

The Big Day • Allow plenty of time to get ready. That includes the whole wedding party.

• Make sure you thank everyone who comes to your wedding. Make the rounds to every table.

• Enjoy your special day! You deserve it! Congratulations!

February 11, 2016 13

D O N ’ T B E B L I N D E D BY T H E B L I N G

Get Insurance for Your Ring There’s nothing more romantic than a marriage proposal on Valentine’s Day. But with a great engagement ring comes great responsibility. While there is no way to insure the sentimental value of such a gift, having the right insurance coverage will provide financial protection, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

“The word ‘insurance’ is not likely to be the first word on many lovers’ lips this Valentine’s Day. However, if an expensive gift of jewelry is lost or stolen it can certainly soothe the sting of losing a cherished gift,” said Jeanne

14 February 11, 2016

M. Salvatore, the I.I.I.’s chief communications officer.

“Your first step after receiv-

ing a valuable engagement ring—well, maybe your second after saying yes!— should be to call your insurance professional.”

Jewelry losses are among the most frequent of all homeowners content related insurance claims.

Fortunately, there are four steps to ensure adequate protection for your new ring:

Contact your insurance professional immediately.

Find out whether you will need additional insurance.

Most standard homeowners and renters insurance policies include coverage for personal items such as jewelry; however, many policies limit the dollar amount on jewelry to $1,000 to $2,000. With the average engagement ring costing nearly $6,000, that is unlikely to be enough coverage for your new bauble.

To properly insure jewelry, consider purchasing a floater or an endorsement policy.

In most cases, these add-ons to a homeowners or renters policy would also cover you for “mysterious disappear-

Vol. 7 • No. 20

ance.” This means that if your ring falls off your finger and is flushed down a drain, or is lost, you would be financially protected. And unlike a homeowners policy, floaters and endorsements carry no deductibles, so there is no out-of-pocket expense to replace the item.

Obtain a Copy of the Store Receipt.

Forward a copy of the receipt to your insurer—so that your company has a record of the current retail value of the ring—and keep a copy for your own records. It’s also a good idea to get a copy of the appraised value of the item.

If you received an heirloom piece, have it appraised.

Antique jewelry will need to be appraised for its dollar value. You can ask your insurance professional to recommend a reputable appraiser.

Add the Item to your Home Inventory.

An up-to-date inventory of your personal possessions can help you purchase the correct amount of insurance and speed up the claims process if you have a loss, so remember to add your new ring to your inventory. And if you don’t yet have an inventory, celebrate your engagement by creating one with your fiancé.

Renters Insurance Finally, if you don’t think you need renters insurance, think again. A 2014 Insurance Information Institute poll found that 96 percent of homeowners had homeowners insurance but only 37 percent of renters had renters insurance. If you rent your home, renters insurance can provide important financial protection in the event your belongings are stolen or destroyed.

February 11, 2016 15

Vol. 7 • No. 20 Cajun Cafe 02-13-14.indd 1

2/9/14 6:55 PM

By Lauren Abate Planning a wedding is so incredibly time-consuming that a lot of things may inadvertently get overlooked. There’s such a thing as wedding etiquette—and even though times have changed, you still need to follow it.

The Wedding Party Planning who’s going to be in your wedding party can create some stress. The bottom line is to choose people that have been very important to you in your life, and will support you on your special day—people you want standing up there with you when you say, “I do.” So no matter what your mother says, you don’t have to ask your cousin that you haven’t seen in 10 years to be a bridesmaid. And your sister shouldn’t be the maid of honor when you are much closer to your best friend.

On the other hand, it would

be very nice if you asked your fiancé’s sister(s) to be bridesmaids, and if he asked your brother(s) to be groomsmen. It builds up a lot of goodwill for the future.

The maid of honor not only organizes and hosts your shower, she also helps you get ready on your wedding day. Her dress (which she pays for herself) matches or coordinates with the other bridesmaids, and she usually carries a slightly more elaborate bouquet than the other attendants.

The bridesmaids attend prewedding parties and also help out with some wedding preparations.

They wear matching or coordinating dresses (paid for themselves) and you are expected to give them a gift as a token of your appreciation.

The best man’s formalwear matches the ushers’ and he pays the rental fees himself. He hosts the bachelor party, holds the ring

during the ceremony, and offers the toast at the reception.

The primary function of the ushers is seating guests at the wedding. They each wear and pay for matching formalwear, and the groom gives each man a present as a thank-you for participating in the wedding.

Flower girls are usually between the ages of three and nine, and they carry a small bouquet or basket down the aisle during the ceremony. The ring bearer is of the same age, and symbolically carries the wedding rings for the bridal party on a large white satin pillow on which imitation rings are sewn. The real wedding bands are kept in the safekeeping of the best man. Parents pay for their children’s attire when asked to be in a wedding, unless otherwise notified by the bride or groom.

Gifts It’s perfectly acceptable to return a wedding gift that you know you’ll never use—just don’t let the sender know about it. Send a thank you note mentioning how much you appreciate their gift— and then exchange it for something you can use.

You may really want cash instead of gifts, but it’s very tacky

to indicate this on the wedding invitation. So have your bridesmaids and family spread the word that you would prefer money.

There will always be people who will give a gift, no matter what, so rather than get something you don’t like, register for what you really need.

Since the purpose of a shower is to receive gifts, information on where you’re registered is always included in the shower invitation—never the wedding invitation.

Thank You Cards For your shower, thank you notes should go out within two weeks. For presents sent on or after the wedding date, try to get them out in a month. Include a thoughtful note, mentioning the gift specifically. Merely signing your names to a card is pretty cold.

If you receive a check, tell the gift-giver what you plan on doing with the money. For example, “Thank you so much for your check! We’re planning on using it to buy a lamp for our guestroom…” or something like that. It will make them feel special. Never mention the amount of the check.

5 Wedding Budget Tips Prioritize. Before you begin spending on your wedding, decide which elements are most important to you. This will help you to place more wedding dollars on the things that you think will most impact the success of your wedding day.

There is no such thing as “perfect.” Being realistic about your expectations will help you create the wedding day you want instead of chasing the dream of the “perfect” wedding day. Decide what kind of wedding you want and then plan your wedding day around that idea.

Choose in-season items. Whether it is flowers or fruits, choosing in-season options will always be best for your budget.

Ceremony venues. The most budget friendly venues for your ceremony may be your reception hall. While you may pay a fee for your ceremony on-site, you will eliminate transportation costs, travel fees from vendors for multiple locations and site rental fees.

Hire a DJ. Live bands typically cost several thousand dollars for their services, plus meals and entertainment during their breaks. A single DJ can provide you the customized playlists you want and doesn’t take breaks.

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The Perfect Spot The location of your wedding determines not only the mood (mountains, beach, city) but also the travel, time and budget necessary to have your dream wedding. Your wedding elements -- not just the location, but also activities and the overall feeling-- should say something about your personal style and your passions.

Timing is Everything Unfortunately, the best weather in vacation destinations tends to correlate with tourist season, when there are typically more crowds, fewer hotel and venue availabilities, and inflated rates. But if you choose to marry during this season, make sure you reserve hotel blocks and venues immediately and send out save-the-dates far in advance (10 to 12 months) so your guests can book their flights and accommodations before prices skyrocket. Booking right after high season can save you some money. Just be aware that the weather may not be as great (I went to a destination wedding off season in the Cayman Islands and we were greeted with a hurricane!) and some shops and restaurants may be closed.

able to travel for health reasons. It’s safe to say that most couples that plan a destination wedding are aware that a relatively small group will be attending.

Take Care of Your Guests In addition to arranging group rates for flights and rooms, list information for getting to and from the nearest airport to your wedding locale, invite everyone to the rehearsal or welcome dinner and next-day brunch, and deliver welcome bags to their rooms, full of essentials for the trip, like suntan lotion, water and bug spray.

Dress For the Weather Consider the climate when choosing your wedding dress and the bridal party’s attire. If you’re getting married on the beach, a more casual look is acceptable. A long train will get muddy and stiletto heels will sink in the sand. And do you really want your groomsmen wearing tuxes under that hot sun?

After all the dos and don’t’s, and planning and stressing—relax! It’s going to be a beautiful day, and you’ll be making memories for a lifetime! Congratulations!

Research Local Marriage Requirements The legal side of tying the knot in a different country can be complicated. Many countries have a “residency requirement” (for example, 24 hours in Turks and Caicos and seven days in England), which means you must reside in the country for a certain length of time before your ceremony. Although this is usually just a few days, it can be longer.

Wedding Planner Will Save Your Life All resorts has a wedding planner or two (if they don’t, find another resort). This is what they do, and they will save your life. Talk to them well in advance about all the logistics and details and keep in contact throughout the planning process.

About Vendors Most resorts have package deals that include photography, hair and makeup, etc. You can always bring your trusted hairdresser from home, as well as a photographer, but you will have to cover their travel and lodging expenses. If you choose local vendors, explain exactly what you want with your wedding coordinator and make sure everything is confirmed well before the big day.

Tell Your Friends ASAP Make sure you let everyone in your bridal party know that you are having a destination wedding before you ask them so that they can gracefully decline if they can’t afford it. Don’t be upset if some of your closest friends or relatives can’t attend.

Not everyone will be able to afford the airfare and accommodations, and it’s a given that your older relatives may not be Vol. 7 • No. 20

February 11, 2016 17

When Tiffany Gardner and Dusty Bordelon of Lake Charles decided to tie the knot, they knew they wanted something unique. For those of you who are considering something different, a destination wedding might be just the ticket!

JAM: What made you decide to do a destination wedding?

TB: I have always thought it would be fun to get married on a beach or in a more fun, less traditional location. We initially were planning a “traditional” church wedding, but we began noticing the costs kept increasing with constant rental fees, reception prices, etc. and at that point, we hadn’t even started looking into the honeymoon! We were a little older than most of our married friends and also had a child together and were paying for this wedding by ourselves. After talking about it, we both decided that it would be more fun, less stress and more cost effective for us to have a destination wedding!

JAM: What was the criteria for choosing a resort, and why did you decide on the resort that you picked?

TB: I wanted to find an all-inclusive resort that would help our guests keep costs down. I also searched for a resort that had great reviews and good wedding options that would fit our needs.

18 February 11, 2016

JAM: Was it difficult organizing this type of wedding?

TB: I found it to be far less stressful. The entire wedding was planned by email and phone and once everything was chosen and sent to the wedding coordinator, all we had to do was show up--so that was very nice! I really didn’t have the option to stress over the small stuff as I would have if it were local. You put your trust in the coordinator and let them handle the minor details.

JAM: So you feel you got enough help from the resort?

TB: Our wedding coordinator at the resort was wonderful! She was very helpful and took care of everything.

JAM: How many of your friends/ family were able to come?

TB: Seventeen of us total (including Dusty, myself and Mason).

JAM: What were the positives?

TB: We had a great vacation and wedding combined into one. I had far less stress on me trying to plan a wedding with a busy work schedule and raising a toddler.

JAM: What were the negatives?

TB: We had a few people that weren’t so happy that we weren’t having a local traditional wedding, so for

those people, we paid for a portion of their trip to help them to be a part of our special day. We didn’t want to have a wedding for other people (which is what I see happen a lot); we wanted it to be about us and the love we have for one another.

JAM: Was it difficult having a toddler along?

TB: It was because Mason never really gets babysat, he is with us all of the time. We didn’t get much of a break during the wedding vacation and also had him along for the “honeymoon!”

JAM: Anything else you’d like to add?

TB: We did have our wedding planned in Cabo San Lucas. Two months before our wedding date, they were hit by the largest hurricane to ever hit that area! Cabo essentially closed down for a year to rebuild. We were left with no answers for weeks as they had no electricity, so we didn’t know the extent of the damage to our resort. We did end up finally getting in contact with the resort by email and they cancelled our wedding. That was stressful! I had to find a new location, change all 17 plane tickets, make hotel reservations and redo the wedding in a couple of weeks. We ended up marrying in Playa del Carmen--and everything worked out fine!

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February 11, 2016 19

N O T

Y O U R

T Y P I C A L

W E D D I N G

V E N U E

Chateau du Calcasieu Chateau du Calcasieu Event Center at 932 Enterprise Boulevard in Lake Charles is located in what was once the United Furniture building, which many of you may recall. And it’s a very unique structure. There are two separate rooms (Room A and Room B) for a wedding and a reception, along with two complete wedding suites with private bathrooms in a 100-year-old house that is located in the middle of the complex and opens into Room A. Here, the wedding party can come in the day of the event and get their makeup done if they choose, and can relax before and even during the event. Couches, chairs and lighted mirrors give you all the comforts of home.

“Brides just fall in love with the house,” said owner Phil de Albuquerque.

“They love the idea of a place to gather with their attendants, put the finishing touches on their makeup, and maybe have a glass of champagne and just chill.

And, they can leave their personal items in the suites, which will be locked when they’re not occupied.”

Many couples would like to get married outside, but there are always weather concerns. What if it rains? Or it’s too hot? Room A is the perfect solution.

“This room has an outdoor feel to it,” de Albuquerque explained. “There are park benches, white garden chairs, an artificial, nine-foot-tall lighted dogwood tree, and a fountain.”

The charming old house is located in Room A, which adds to the outdoor atmosphere. After the wedding ceremony, the room is a wonderful spot for a cocktail hour. From there, guests enter Room B for the reception.

“Most couples book both Rooms A and B,” de Albuquerque said. “Even if they are having their ceremony elsewhere, they like the idea of the private suites, cocktails in Room A and the reception in Room B.” The reception hall has two floors. The second floor is open and looks down on the first floor, and has wrought-iron railings. “There’s a New Orleans feel throughout the entire wedding, with the wrought iron balcony,” de Albuquerque

said. “The bride and groom can be introduced to the guests as they come down the grand staircase. And it’s a great location to take photos.”

The event center is going on its third year, and since the doors opened, people have made it clear that they’re thrilled that there’s another event center in town.

“The one thing we’ve heard, over and over again, was that there aren’t enough wedding venues in the area,” de Albuquerque continued.” And people are really excited that we have separate rooms to hold both the wedding service and the reception.”

You can choose from a list of caterers, photographers, florists bands, DJs, etc., or bring in your own. “We have a manager on staff who is there throughout your event to make sure everything goes smoothly,” he said. “Whether it’s a very large, or an intimate affair, the Chateau du Calcasieu will make the most important day of your life unforgettable!”

Check out the Chateau’s Facebook page and call (337) 244-7959 to book your tour today.

Meet our new boy, Dax! He is 3-4 years old, is medium-sized (35-40 pounds) and is a sweetheart! This handsome boy would make a great playmate for a dog buddy or would be happy to be your one and only. Dax loves to be outside where his favorite activity is playing chase.

He is fully vetted, heartworm negative, and is ready to be your Valentine! Call or email for more information: (337) 478-7294; lapaw@bellsouth.net. Vet check and home visit required prior to all adoptions.

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Poetry Out Loud Feb. 11 High school students representing schools and libraries across SWLA will come together on Thursday, February 11 to compete for top honors at Poetry Out Loud’s annual Southwest Louisiana Regional Competition. It will be held in the Benjamin W. Mount Auditorium at Central School at 6 p.m. The students who competed at the Regional level have already made it through the first round of competition at their schools or local library. DeRidder High School students Brenda Guzman, Ashtyn Hanna, and Leah Worley will compete with library finalists Mekenzie Peshoff and Claire Buchanan of Barbe High School, and home-schooled student Reigner Kane. www.artscouncilswla.org.

Color Vibe 5K Feb. 20 The Color Vibe 5K is returning to Lake Charles on Sat. Feb. 20 at the Arcade Amphitheatre at the Lake Charles Civic Center (1000 Bord du Lac Dr.) and will begin at 8 a.m. The Color Vibe is a unique 5K fun run series where participants run, walk, or dance their way through color stations, where vibrant colors tie-dye white outfits and costumes. When it’s over, there’s a large colorful dance party hosted by a professional sound crew and DJ. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life Lake Charles. Children 12 and under can participate for free. www. thecolorvibe.com/lakecharles.php.

Home Show Feb. 20-21

Lake Charles Civic Center gates open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7:30. Advance discount tickets are available online at Ticketmaster.com, by phone at (800) 745-3000, all Ticketmaster Outlets, or at the Lake Charles Civic Center Ticket Office.

The Addams Family Feb. 27-28 The Addams Family launches The Children’s Theatre Company’s 2016 season. Directed by Kerry A. Onxley, this family musical will be performed on Sat., Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Feb 29 at 3 p.m. Seating is limited to 400 guests. The weird and wonderful family comes to devilishly delightful life onstage! Performance will be held at the Central School of the Arts & Humanities Center (809 Kirby Street) located in downtown Lake Charles. (337) 433-7323, mail@childrenstheatre.cc

Brewers Dinner March 4 Gearing up for the Louisiana Winter Beer Fest, L’Auberge Casino Resort will once again host a Brewers Dinner on Fri., March 4, which will feature Louisiana beer selections paired with unique menu items prepared by award-winning Chef Lyle Broussard of Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill. The dinner is an opportunity to dine with brewers and beer industry professionals in an intimate setting. Tickets are limited and are available at www.lawinterbeerfest.com for $100 per seat.

Black Heritage Festival March 4-6

If you’re hungry for mouthwatering food, terrific music and The Home Builders Assoc. of SWLA announces the 25th An- great family fun then this is the festival for you. Taking place nual Home Show, the only Home Show in SWLA featuring 90+ at the Lake Charles Civic Center, entertainers will perform builders and home improvement companies all under one roof. gospel, Zydeco, blues, spoken word and more on the Kids Will be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center Feb. 20-21. (337) and Main Stages. Food booths will serve Louisiana Creole and traditional African-American foods, including gumbo, jam478-7893. balaya and barbecue. The vendor marketplace will be open with an array of art, books, jewelry, African artifacts, clothing, Beautiful You Life Event Feb. 20 collectibles, Greek paraphernalia and more. Enjoy a Kids Zone, KPLC TV’s Britney Glaser, FOX29’s Heather Ieyoub, Miss Louisiana USA 2016 Maaliyah Papillion and other local celebri- games, Zydeco Aerobics, Baby Expo/Healthy Baby Contest! For more information, visit www.bhflc.org. ties will lead in-depth discussions on topics affecting young girls during the upcoming Beautiful You life-coaching event for 5th to 8th grade girls, which will take place Saturday, Feb. Louisiana Winter Beer Festival March 5 The 2016 Louisiana Winter Beer Festival will be held on Sat. 20, at 1 p.m. at the Lake Charles Country Club. Four group March 5 from 1-5 p.m. at the Historic Calcasieu Marine Nasessions include Developing A Skill For Life, No Social Media Victims, Health and Beauty Tips and Self-Defense Instruction: tional Bank Building (844 Ryan St.) in Downtown Lake Charles.

This will be the second year for the Craft Beer festival, benScholarships are available for the event, and those interested efiting the Lake Charles Symphony. Regular admission tickets in applying can visit www.BeautifulYouProgram.com. Dress code is casual. Registration fee is $170. To register or to learn are $50 per person. VIP tickets are $100 per person and are limited. Tickets can be purchased at www.lawinterbeerfest. more, visit www.BeautifulYouProgram.com or email nikkifoncom. tenot@yahoo.com.

Monster X Tour Feb. 26-27 This event sold out early last year, so get your tickets now!

22 February 11, 2016

Full Throttle Wrestling Benefit March 5 The Full Throttle Wrestlers are back! On March 5, see them Vol. 7 • No. 20

at The Water’s Edge Gathering at 2760 Power Centre Pkwy., Lake Charles. Doors open at 5 p.m., event begins at 6. Tickets are $10 and $5. Benefits Water’s Edge.

Empty Bowl Fundraiser March 10 “Soup, Soap, and Salvation” is the theme of this year’s Empty Bowl fundraiser scheduled by the Salvation Army. The event will be held at L’Auberge Casino and Resort on Thursday, March 10. Guests will be entertained by Grammy nominated musician Mickey Smith, Jr. while dining on delicious soups prepared by Lake Charles’ premier chefs. Salad and dessert are also included. Each guest will be given a unique ceramic bowl designed by area artisans. Tickets are $100 per guest and may be obtained by calling (337) 433-4155.

Sulphur Mines Festival March 11-12 Sulphur’s annual festival to celebrate its heritage includes carnival rides, food and craft booths, live entertainment, a beauty pageant and more! It will be held at the Henning Cultural Center at 923 South Ruth Street in Sulphur. For more event information, visit www.brimstonemuseum.org.

Iowa Rabbit Festival March 18-19 Celebrating the economic and culinary impact rabbits have in Southwest Louisiana, the annual Iowa Rabbit Festival is a

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one-of-a-kind event, from the rabbit gumbo to crowning the new Miss Bunny. The family-friendly event has some of the best music in the area from the Iowa High School Marching band to local Cajun favorites. All proceeds from the festival go to support the community of Iowa and various other youth organizations, schools and not for profit groups. It will be held at the Burton Complex March 18-19. For more information, visit www.iowarabbitfestival.org.

LC Civic Ballet’s Assemblé 2016 March 19-20 The Lake Charles Civic Ballet’s Assemblé 2016 will wow audiences with collaborative performances all in one show.

Lake Charles author Eloise Huber’s book, “The Goose with the Golden Legs” is brought to life on stage; performing artist Tony James shares his talents in “Amen,” an original work incorporating ballet and tap dance with classic hymns and there’s a performance of the one-act comical ballet Gaité Parsienne. William G. Rose with PASTICHE quartet presents a live accompaniment of original composition, “The Season,” and there will be contemporary pieces staged by Golden Wright.

Performances will be held at the Rosa Hart Theatre, 900 Lakeshore Drive. Tickets are available by contacting The Civic Center Box Office/Ticketmaster at (337) 491-1432 or www. ticketmaster.com.

February 11, 2016 23

The Finest Hours (Disney, 2015) survival mode and Bernie getIn 195, an amazing resting a Coast Guard crew to go cue was made off the coast rescue them. of Cape Cod during a huge I could go on and on about Nor’easter. An oil tanker split this movie, which you should in half and what was left of definitely see, but not because the crew managed to keep of the thrilling scenes, the their half of the ship afloat amazing graphics, and the acfor several hours. The Finest tion. What The Finest Hours Hours is that story of their portrays is not a bunch of rescue. super human heroes going in The hero of the story is – to make a daring rescue. It’s well, that’s not right; there not that at all. are too many heroes to list in Instead, the movie amazthis movie – the main characingly focuses on feeling the ter is a Coast Guard Skipper, fear and doing it anyway.

Bernie Webber (Chris Pine.)

At the beginning of the movie With skillful plotting and pacing, we find out that he meets Miriam (Holliday pretty much every person Grainger), a telephone opinvolved has, well, personal erator, and they get engaged.

And then along comes this big issues going on that make storm. Meanwhile, the tanker them motivated to do what they do. Bernie has already is at sea and about to break run a previous mission to apart. The ship’s engineer, save crewmen from a storm Ray Sybert (Casey Affleck) just knows the tanker is in for that happened a year ago. He failed and people died, people it, he even warns the caphe knew, people in his home tain they need to slow down. town. Is part of his drive to Nope, the Captain says keep go on an impossible mission a on going. chance to redeem himself? It’s Then it happens, and the got to take something, becaptain is gone. You’ve got half a gigantic ship, slowly let- cause when you see the rescue ting in water, with giant waves boat it’s like, what were they rolling it around. As the night thinking?

Casey Affleck as engineer unfolds, we have Ray trying Ray Sybert is quiet and not to keep the crew and ship in 24 February 11, 2016

well liked by the crew of the tanker. But he alone knows what to do to keep the men alive. And basically, this storm is so fierce that everyone is just scared s***less the whole time. And that’s what real heroism is about. It’s not pretty or fun or even the right thing to do. Fact is, every one of these people hits spots where they don’t know what to do. Bernie is constantly looking at his partner on the rescue boat, his eyes saying, is this ok? Am I doing all right?

Because he just may become responsible for the death of his own men.

Disney has really backed these docu-drama movies lately, and is getting very good at telling the “true” story.

After the movie, stick around

for the credits, where you see pictures of the real crews and news articles that mirror the story.

Some might see the film as old-fashioned, but I for one am tired of seeing save-theworld movies. For once, we get a film about real people who act like real people. Even though you can hardly understand them through those Cape Cod accents.

The Finest Hours is rated PG-13, mainly because you will feel like you’re drowning through much of the movie.

Kids will probably be bored with the thoughtful slow pacing compared to today’s action films. But anyone who claims to be called an adult these days should see this movie. Enjoy!

Vol. 7 • No. 20

Earnest

The day you met your dog, it was love at first sight.

Those big brown eyes, that silky-sheened fur, butt-wiggles, even puppy breath was hard to resist. You couldn’t decide who picked whom, and it didn’t matter: on the day you met your dog, it was forever. But, as in the new book Earnest by Kristin von Kreisler, could the same be said for your human?

The minute Anna stepped into Second Chance Shelter, she knew that she and her boyfriend, Jeff, weren’t going home alone. Jeff only wanted to “look” at the dogs – he said you got a better idea of their personalities that way – but when they met Earnest, well, that was that. He was a gorgeous, three-year-old yellow Lab and on that day, they became a family of three.

That made Anna enormously happy. Earnest was a sweetheart and she loved taking him to work at her Seattle-area floral shop, which was located in an old Victorian mansion that Anna’s grandmother once owned.

Anna’s shop, Plant Parenthood, was humming; Anna’s friends (business co-renters of the house) were busy; and Vol. 7 • No. 20

Jeff was becoming a success at his architectural firm. Life was good.

But Jeff didn’t know how he was going to tell Anna about his work project. He hadn’t asked for it; Cedar Place was handed to him, and its completion would totally set his career. When it was done, it would be a jewel in the neighborhood, a place for community and retail, museums and families, something Jeff could be proud of. He’d thought through every single facet of it.

Except for one thing: the project involved the demolition of the Victorian mansion that Anna loved. Though he had a solution to it all, she would be heartbroken.

But she was more than just that. When Anna learned that Jeff was involved in the Cedar Place project, she was livid. How could he? Didn’t he think she’d be hurt?

Jeff moved out of their condo. Anna filed for custody of Earnest.

Jeff countered with a mediator. Anna started fighting for her beloved house. There was no way they could ever continue their relationship.

But Earnest – and life – had

other ideas.

There are two basic things you should know about Earnest. It’s good, and it’s too long. On the first point, who can resist a book about a dog? I know I can’t, especially when the dog is personable but not cutesy, so I was glad that author Kristin von Kreisler is careful not to go overboard with her Earnest.

He’s a charmer, but not a saccharine one.

The “overboard” comes with the human characters’ back-and-forth. Anna and Jeff ’s fight goes on and on and on and, well, you know.

I desperately wanted them

to stop already. Their heeldigging comprises the majority of this book, and it’s too much.

Keep that in mind, and if you’re willing to endure it for the sake of an otherwise good boy-meets-girl-meets-dog romance, you’ll be fine. In that case, I think Earnest will nicely meet your needs.

“Earnest”

By Kristin von Kreisler ©2016, Kensington $15 / $16.95 Canada 256 pages February 11, 2016 25

Unpredictable Oscar Predictions Last year, it was incredibly easy to predict the Oscar winners. Whether the winners were exceptionally outstanding or the competition was not is anyone’s guess. But I was fist-pumping and gleefully checking off my Oscar ballot with more than 75 percent of the win last year. I shoulda been in Vegas! Shout it with me “We’re in the money, Honey!”

But this year, you might as well toss a stack of blackjack cards in the air, spin around three times, and consult your Magic 8 Ball to sort it all out. To make it even harder this year, I’ve had a devil of a time locating a showing of Spotlight within a 100 mile radius of Lake Charles. It wouldn’t be a big deal except it was the only… sure… thing… before the nominations were announced.

No one predicted the other seven nominees.

Everyone predicted Spotlight. But I will do my best to help you win your Oscar pool this year. I’ve got my Magic 8 ball handy. Ready?

Oh wait. I feel I should mention something before we get started.

Let’s get the controversy out of the way right up front, shall we? It’s Oscar’s 88thyear of existence. Folks are pointing out how undiverse the Academy is and it’s been two years since the nominees have been spread across a wider racial demographic. I’m not going to rehash anything Oscar watchers haven’t already read across the Internet and back. But I do want to look at an even tinier category where lack of diversity has been in play.

In 88 years, there have been four female best director nominees. Four. That seems to be an absurdly small number given there have been 440 directing slots available over 88 years. It took 81 years for Kathryn Bigelow to be the one and only female director to win the award.

26 February 11, 2016

When I was much younger, I used to watch sappy romantic comedies like I was gobbling M&Ms, my favorite candy. Tons of those sappy movies were directed by men. That’s not a typo, I said “men.” And when Kathryn Bigelow won her Oscar in 2009, it was for a testosterone drenched, adrenaline pumping war movie The Hurt Locker. I suppose that’s some sort of poetic justice. Anyway, kudos to the females out making movies without Hollywood support. I salute you.

Now, let’s get down to the fun stuff.

Keep in mind I’ve only seen seven of the eight Best Picture nominees as I shuffle my Oscar prediction cards.

First up: The Martian. Who didn’t love this movie? Matt Damon was likeable as an astronaut who gets left behind on Mars and must figure out a way to survive several more years on the planet than he has food for. I haven’t met anyone who’s disliked this movie and it’s a fun blockbuster excellently told. But lots of movies are entertaining. Oscar usually demands a little extra of its best pictures. The Martian’s excellence got it on the nomination list but I don’t think it’s layered enough to take home the Oscar statuette.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is a true gem of a movie, Brooklyn. This hidden treasure is a small story about a young Irish girl who comes to America, suffers intense home sickness and eventually must choose between her new life and her old one. No dramatic life or death stakes like The Martian. No gruesome survival scenes like The Revenant. Just a simple story extremely well told. A huge amount of this movie’s heart rests on Saoirse Ronan’s young shoulders. After it’s all over and you wonder why the film was so touching, you realize it’s because she makes us feel what her character feels every small step of the way. Though it’s a long shot, this sweet story could bring home a Best Actress statuette for Miss Ronan.

Speaking of long shots, I’ll hop on over to Stephen Spielberg’s movie, Bridge of Spies. It boasts an engrossing storyline about an attorney who receives death threats for defending an enemy spy only to turn around and use him to save an American spy. If nominee Spotlight loses momentum, Bridge of Spies’ skillful execution could bring it an Original Screenplay Oscar to tuck among its secret agent memorabilia.

Now it’s time to focus on the nominee that left those who never saw it scratching their heads. Meanwhile, those who did see it whooped and hollered in surprise. I’m not lying when I say I saw this trailer sitting between two people on both sides of the fence.

When the trailer was over my boyfriend at the time whispered, “I can’t wait to see this movie.” Then my mother leaned in from the other side and whispered “Who would

ever want to see this movie?” And that, dear readers, is why this is an Oscar-worthy movie. Generally movies chosen to be Oscar nominees are not boring. Love them or hate them but don’t be bored by them. This is the entertainment industry after all. The movie?

Mad Max: Fury Road.

On the surface, it seems like the least likely movie to be in the Best Picture race. When’s the last time you’ve seen a chase film up for an Oscar? Like never! But when’s the last time you saw a chase film like this one? Like never! Light on dialogue and heavy on action, it miraculously fleshes out a whole history for this apocalyptic setting where water is the last world resource and it’s running out fast.

There’s never a dull moment and I would be surprised if this one didn’t easily walk away with both Best Production Design and Best Makeup awards.

Before I get to the top three real contenders, I must say this next movie was a real surprise for me. Like Brooklyn, the movie simply titled Room is another movie told on a small scale. The plot focuses on a mother and her child who was born while both were held captive in a single room. When they escape, the child experiences the rest of the whole wide world for the first time. When I didn’t have a tear in my eye, I had a lump in my throat.

When I didn’t have a lump in my throat, I had a knot in my stomach. This movie cuts deep. Its universal themes common to all of us include our comfort zones, reality versus illusion, family connections, and of course, freedom. It also looks at a theme not popular in modern day American movies, our genuine need for other human beings.

If evoking emotions were the only criteria for an Oscar win, then this movie would do it. However, my Magic 8 Ball sees Best Actress nominee Brie Larson as the only sure Oscar winner for this movie. Emma Donoghue could also win in the Best Adapted Screenplay category if The Big Short doesn’t scoop that one.

Get your Vegas money out! The Best Picture Oscar could go to The Big Short, The Revenant or Spotlight and the odds-on favorite is different depending on which news source you read. Out of The Big Short and The Revenant, I think I personally would rather re-watch The Big Short if I had to re-watch one right away. The movie’s ability to take a dry subject, the American housing bubble fiasco, and make it as fun as a trip to Disneyland is no small feat. This film’s ability to make you root for people fighting injustice only to then flip it around and make you squirm uncomfortably is powerful. And no worries if you find some of it confusing.

You’ll definitely still feel the injustice at all the right moments, which fuels this movie’s blazing core.

On the other hand, I think watching too many Game of Thrones episodes may have Vol. 7 • No. 20

numbed me before watching The Revenant. The story is visceral in a physical way. I shivered in the freezing cold, my mouth parched enough to slurp some extra movie cola and my insides gripped during excruciating survival scenes.

But for those turned off by the gruesome-looking trailer, let me alert you a two-minute trailer does not a two-hour movie make. It’s tamer than an episode of Game of Thrones and worth a watch for sure.

Cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki sometimes halted production for hours waiting for the perfect lighting only Mother Nature can provide. You can see the results in stunning snow-capped scenes and eerie dreamscapes. Oscar fans don’t need me to tell you that Leonardo DiCaprio should start writing his Oscar speech now. It’s about as sure bet as you’re gonna get this year. Also, Alejandro G. Inarritu won the Director’s Guild Award for Best Director this year, which bodes extremely well for The Revenant to walk away with the biggest enchilada of the entire night.

But then there’s Spotlight, the movie about the Boston Globe’s reporting team who unveiled the Boston Archdiocese priest sex abuse scandal.

The movie everyone predicted would get a Best Picture nomination even when no one could predict the other nominees. The movie that I didn’t get to see before writing this article. The movie that started out of the gate like a fast race horse but has The Big Short and The Revenant nipping at its heels. What about that one? I have a feeling it’s incredible and must surely match up to The Big Short and The Revenant in appealing to both the emotions and intellect. And the only thing more unpredictable than a two-way race is a three-way race. If I still haven’t tracked this one down in a theatre near me come Oscar night, I’ll be perched on the edge of my sofa watching the most unpredictable race in years. Until next time, save me some popcorn!

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With a musical and geographic background as diverse as this guy, that may be a lot harder to answer than one would think. This Hawaiian born, SoCal raised, genre-defying musician has taken his talents halfway around the world and back before coming to roost right here in the Lake City, after years of working with legendary producers and artists and creating more musical sounds than might be describable.

The adopted son of a military family, Loren found himself leaving Hawaii at a young age and spending most of his childhood growing up in and around Topanga Canyon and Laurel Canyon in western Los Angeles, home to many of the sounds and stories of the famed West Coast music of the ‘60s and ‘70s. Years of playing with numerous bands of various genres eventually led Loren into a chance encounter with a Norwegian aerial filming crew that was working on the famous Grand Canyon scene from Superman 2.

The crew really liked his music and thought that Renn’s Southwestern, folkish alt-country sound would resonate well in their frosty homeland.

Taking their advice to heart, Loren started pitching his music way across the pond and began getting positive feedback from Northern European record companies. With that and the encouragement of friends and contemporaries like Belinda Carlisle and the Go Go’s, who had just returned from Europe, Loren packed up his band “100 Days” and struck off for Norway, where eventually he found himself with a an offer from EMI Records.

With a thee-year stipulation on the contract, most of Loren’s band eventually headed back for sunny California, but he carried on, ending up with a techno-pop outfit under a contract from CBS/Sony that led to extensive European touring and eventually playing with the likes of Ah-Ha and other headlining acts of the day.

However, success got the best of the young band members and Loren stepped away, heading this time to Arizona to dig back into his roots and his songwriting away from the icy European North. It was here that a series of friendships and relationships led Loren to finally meet Snuff Garrett, industry legend and the DJ credited with discovering a young artist you may know as Buddy Holly.

Garrett’s appreciation of Loren’s music and his Nashville influence eventually led to Loren working with famed producer Bill Halverson. This man has engineered and produced acts such as Crosby, Stills and Nash, The Beach Boys, Cream, Eric Clapton, Tom Jones, Bill Withers and even our very own Jo-El Sonnier, on his hit album “Come On Joe.” Those sessions were enough to get Loren the eventual offer to stand in for The Eagles’ own Don Henley should his contract with Geffen Records have prevented his participation in the “Hell Freezes Over Tour”-- an accomplishment of no small detail.

But, Henley did return for the show and subsequent tour and Loren has carried right on doing what he’s always done. He spent more time back in Norway and elsewhere in Europe and has once again returned to the U.S. after a surprise amount of interest from trop-rock radio stations stateside that wanted to add his music to their catalogues.

Loren never actually considered himself troprock, but the attention was enough to get him burning up the Gulf Coast playing to trop-rocker, folk fans and Parrotheads alike to the Florida Keys and back. He has had enough success that he’s back to work with Bill Halverson, currently creating a new album that is sure to please.

But all of this information still hasn’t answered the question: Who is Renn Loren musically? His Hawaiian album may make you think Polynesian and trop-rock, his earlier effort “The Topangas” may have you thinking SoCal meets alt or Texas country with even a possible splash of Tejano and Norteno. His European work can have you thinking Techno and New Wave and now, living here in Southwest Louisiana, even a splash of Cajun, Zydeco and swamp pop is making its way into the mix that creates a fusion that I can only call some kind of “Fusion Folk-’loha,” to measure up to the complexity of both the musician and the man that is Renn Loren. Regardless of genre, this is a diverse and unique talent that is yet another colorful tile in this grand mosaic that we call Louisiana music that I do hope you’ll take the time to go see.

Many mahalos, Renn. We’ll see you out there.

Renn and The Renn Loren Band are working on a new Halverson-produced project and are gigging as we speak right here at home. Be sure to check him out at Cooler’s Ice House for a Charity Fundraiser on February 18 and at 171 Junction on February 19. Tell him The Jam sent ya!

February 11, 2016 27

Thursday, Feb. 11 Katie Whitney & Chip Radford 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

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

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

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

Katie Whitney & Chip Radford 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

Reed Planchard 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC

Qrisis 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Dance Night Drink specials starting @midnight 9 p.m.- 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC

Jen Kober Karaoke Night Karoake starts @ 11 p.m.

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

8 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC

Friday, Feb. 12

8:30 p.m. @ Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000

Eddie Money

Big Jimmy & Restless Band 9 p.m. @ 171 Junction Roadhouse 2600 Moeling St. Ste. R, LC Big Redd & Creole Soul 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton

Kris Calwell 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd. LA Yard Dogs 9:30 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC AEP 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC DJ San-D 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Saturday, Feb. 13 Space Rockers 9 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

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

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

The Commodores

3-H-G 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC 28 February 11, 2016

7 p.m. @ Delta Event Center Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton Acoustic Pie 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Vol. 7 • No. 20

Jen Kober

Sunday, Feb. 14

8 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC

Chester & Jarius Daigle

Lou Gramm

@ 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.

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

8:30 p.m. @ Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are available at www. ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 7453000 Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC

JD’s Whiskey Brunch

Clint Faulk 4-8 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Rapture 7-11 p.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Kris Calwell 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd.

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

Big Redd & Creole Soul 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton

Server Industry Night Sunday Funday Karaoke Night

9 p.m. @ 171 Junction Roadhouse 2600 Moeling St. LC DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Monday, Feb. 15 Stacy Bearden 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Open Mic Night 9-midnight @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC

Tuesday, Feb. 16 Bryan Trahan 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

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

John Guidroz 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC SIN Night Two for Tuesday on shots and beer 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC

Wednesday, Feb. 17 Chester Daigle 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Chris Miller & Bayou Roots 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC

Kollider 9 p.m. @ 171 Junction Roadhouse 2600 Moeling St. LC Space Rockers 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 3-H-G 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Qrisis 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder DJ San-D 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC Vol. 7 • No. 20

February 11, 2016 29

Kade Fontenot 8 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd.

Michael Krajicek

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

Thursday, Feb. 18

QRISIS 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Superstar Wednesdays Drag Show starts at 11:30 p.m.

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

9 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC

Kevin Lambert 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 Alfred Doucet 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

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

Friday, Feb. 19

AfterParty 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort

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

You Make Me So Very Happy...

As casual as many listeners may be, you will probably find yourself hard pressed to find someone who doesn’t like some music of some persuasion.

Styles and instruments and languages all vary wildly, but just about everyone has some sort of music that speaks to them personally. The question that we don’t know the answer to is “Why?” Why do we so seemingly love music so universally and why does it evoke the feelings and emotions that we get from it? Well, as it tends to do, modern science is coming up with some newer answers to some old questions.

Research being done by Canadian scientists over the last few years 30 February 11, 2016

2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

have been able to identify specified brain activities triggered by musical stimuli. Whereas we’ve known about the dopamine release we receive from hearing music we like, we are now more able to see how the different parts of the brain work together to determine what it is that we do or do not like.

The research shows that one’s musical preferences are largely shaped by previous experience (the music and sounds that have been familiar to the listener) and are based on a certain level of predictability of the mind finding those pre-established familiarities in new music. The bits of gray matter behind all this are the same ones that get the dopamine flowing over food or even more “primal” impulses in humans and in other animals, both of which are vital for survival and the preservation of the species.

Kory Fontenot 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC

O.A.R. 8:30 p.m.@ Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets prices range from $25-$40 and are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com

LA Express 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton

Do You Feel Like I Do...

But why music? It’s certainly not as if our lives hang in its balance, but unlike other animals, our mind almost behaves as if it does. Well, some more unifying data on that front came out of Stanford revealing that scans of listeners’ brains have shown synchronized activity amongst a cross-section of listeners against the same piece of music, meaning that while our experience determines our likes and dislikes, there is still a universal, psychological affect that music has on the human psyche, regardless of the listeners’ background.

Not only does this help with the question as to why music is as universally loved, it also has implied that particular neural responses are attainable simply using sound. That has led to the development and use of auditory applications in stabilizing heart rate and breathing in post-op patients Vol. 7 • No. 20

QRISIS 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC AfterParty 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Dance Night Drink specials starting @midnight 9 p.m.- 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC Reece Sullivan 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd.

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

Renn Loren

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

Rusty Metoyer 9:30 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

aiding in and speeding their recovery. That’s not to mention the longstanding use of auditory stimuli to aid in concentration, battling depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, sleep disorders or even to quit smoking.

Music may not be critical for maintaining life, but it appears that it can be useful at improving the quality of our lives in ways far more than just hearing your favorite song on the radio, cranking it up and letting it make you feel that all is right in the world for a few minutes. We’re wired up a bit better than that and, who knows, maybe the more that neuroscientists, audiologists, psychologists and the like continue such research, we might find out that music is not only enjoyable, but it’s REALLY good for us mentally, physically and emotionally.

So it’s time for this “doctor” to go heal himself. As for you? Take two Roy Orbisons and call me in the morning.

Should fix ya right on up!

Vol. 7 • No. 20

9 p.m. @ 171 Junction Roadhouse 2600 Moeling St. Ste. R, LC

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

Saturday, Feb. 20 Kevin Lambert 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Flashback 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC

RKW Acoustic Show 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd. LA Express 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton AfterParty 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

Something is Happening Here...

And outside of all the neuro-babble, we can not forget the good ol’ fashioned “Feels” that music can give you, certainly not with Valentine’s Day right around the corner. Here are a couple of lovey-dovey options for you and your sweet one to go get all those dopamines a-going:

Saturday, Feb. 13: “Oh, What a Night” Dinner Show L’Auberge Casino Resort A night of auditory Valentine’s Day decadence awaits you for an evening of dinner, gifts and music brought to you by “Under The Streetlamp” a Motown, Doo Wop, rock-n-roll musical romp featuring recent leading cast members from the Broadway production of Jersey Boys. Tickets start at $75 and are available online at www.ticketmaster.com.

Saturday, Feb. 13: Valentine Dinner Cruise Loggerheads If the Four Seasons sound isn’t exactly your flavor or you’d rather a somewhat different atmosphere, the Lady of the Lake will be setting sail from Loggerheads at 5:30 in the evening and will offer up dinner, wine and dancing with the live music of GRAMMY nominee Mickey Smith. Ticketing and event information can be found at www.lakecharlesdinnercruises.com.

So I’ll Have To Say I Love You In A Song...

Here’s to hoping that all of you crazy cool folk out there had a killer Mardi Gras!

A big thanks to all of you whom I got to see, emcee for, photograph and otherwise chase around all season long. There truly is no other time of the year like it. Can’t wait til next year! Until next time, I’ll see you at the show!

February 11, 2016 31

QRISIS 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Flamethrowers 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Bad Habit 9 p.m. @ 171 Junction Roadhouse 2600 Moeling St. LC DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Sunday, Feb. 21 Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar and Grill 710 Ryan St., LC

Chester & Jarius Daigle

JD’s Whiskey Brunch @ 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.

L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC John Cessac 3:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Server Industry Night Sunday Funday Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ 171 Junction Roadhouse 2600 Moeling St. LC DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Monday, Feb. 22 Bryan Trahan 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC DJ Jose Mata 8 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC 32 February 11, 2016

Drink Specials 9 p.m.- 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC

Tuesday, Feb. 23

Greg Martinez & the Delta Kings 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Kay Miller 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

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

Jazz Night with Clint Faulk 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, LC

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

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

Wednesday, Feb. 24 Chester Daigle 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Chris Miller & Bayou Roots 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC

DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Karaoke Night Karoake starts @ 11 p.m.

9 p.m.-2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC Hank & the Cupcakes 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC

Friday, Feb. 26

Joe Ecker 8 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd.

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

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

Clint and Zac 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC

Superstar Wednesdays Drag Show starts at 11:30 p.m.

9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC Josh Taylor 9:30 @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Thursday, Feb. 25 Rusty Yates 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

LA Bayou Band 9 p.m. @ 171 Junction Roadhouse 2600 Moeling St. Ste. R, LC Joe Harmon 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton

Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Party@Joes 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Safira 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Dance Night Drink specials starting @midnight 9 p.m.- 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC

Brittany Pfantz 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd. Larry Tillery 9:30 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Dark Side of the Lake 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Saturday, Feb. 27 Rusty Yates 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Louisiana Bad Habit 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC

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

Wayne Dylan 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd.

DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini

10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC

Black Heart Saints Vol. 7 • No. 20

Vol. 7 • No. 20

February 11, 2016 33

CHAMBER SOUTHWEST ANNUAL BANQUET Business leaders turned out en masse for the SWLA Economic Development Alliance’s 112th annual Chamber Banquet. Some 1,200 attendees gathered to dine and hear a message from Louisiana’s new Governor, John Bell Edwards and were entertained by Comedian Jimmy Tingle who delivered the keynote address.

Moving forward, Louisiana!

Steve Hookanson and Kathy Pettit

Jackie and Paul Hippman

Blake McCaskill, Monica and Julie Miller

Jeanie and Burn Rourk

Anne Billedeau, Ann Barilleaux and Andy Dressler

GOLDEN NUGGET PRESENTS PITBULL The Lake City went “Worldwide” as the one and only Pitbull brought his party to Southwest Louisiana for Mardi Gras weekend! Thousands of fans lined up to see Mr. Worldwide in one of the biggest shows to hit the area in decades.

On fire!

Daniella and Patricia Gonzalez

Julie and Brandon Crossett 34 February 11, 2016

Britaney and Dawn Cothran

Chris Esquivel, Belinda Lopez and Kristen Suarez

Claudia Devalle and Marina Garcia Vol. 7 • No. 20

KREWE OF CONTRABAND BALL Mardi Gras Royalty continued to strut its stuff as the final weekend of the 2016 Mardi Gras season set in. Amongst those reveling was the longstanding and venerable Krewe of Contraband, who welcomed their new King and Queen with all the grandeur of Carnivale. Bons Mardi Gras, mes amis!

Jane Baggett and Annaleigh Drost

Patrick Kelly, Janice Prescott, John Snyder and McKenzie Schexnayder

Abi Abraham, Maaliyah Papillon, Haley Clark and Abbie Milligan

Courtney Allen, Madeline Wilson and Kristian Salvador

Craig Jones and Katherine Henning

Caroline Solari, Kelley Saucier and Elaine Solari

CHILDREN’S PARADE One of the many longstanding traditions of SWLA’s Mardi Gras is the beloved Children’s Parade. Crowds packed up both sides of Ryan Street as float after float delivered their bounty of beads and candy! Here’s to all the young revelers who participated and to a great Mardi Gras season!

Dion, Maryssa, Austin and Heather Kingsbury

Marla and Kylie Nichols and Clailey David with Jessica, Lauryn and Caden Miguez Vol. 7 • No. 20

Ollie, Edward and Charles Thigpen

Margie and Lorelai Snyder

Faith and London Roberts February 11, 2016 35