2 May 19, 2016
Vol. 8 • No. 4
May 19, 2016 • Volume 8 • Issue 4
715 Kirby St. Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262 www.thejambalayanews.com Publisher/Executive Editor Lauren Abate lauren@thejambalayanews.com
Contributors George Cline Roger Miller Jason Machulski Justin Morris Terri Schlichenmeyer Russell Pawlowski
Sales lauren@thejambalayanews.com
On Cover: Century 21 Realtor Toni Alexander
COVER 16 Buying or Selling Your Home? Meet Toni Alexander
REGULARS 6 We Are SWLA! 8
Adoption Corner
8
Tips from Tip
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The Pirate’s Platter
Business Office Manager Jeanie Rourk
12 Tales of the Bayou Pickers
FEATURES 5 Delta Downs Racetrack Casino’s New Hotel Tower
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20 Event Guide 22 SWLA Summer Camp Guide
24 LC Author Pens New Novel 25 Bookworm Sez…
Vol. 8 • No. 4
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THE SPICE OF SWLA 22 Downtown at Sundown
24 Rodney Carrington Interview
Legal Disclaimer The views expressed by The Jambalaya News columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Jambalaya News, its editors or staff. The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by Jambalaya Media, LLC, 715 Kirby Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone (337) 436-7800. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The Jambalaya News cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a self-addressed envelope. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Copyright 2014 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.
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10 Fishin’ Tales
14 LC Memorial Hospital’s Dr. Nathan Cohen Graphics Art/Production Director Burn Rourk
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26 heART of SWLA 28 Nightlife Guide 29 Justin Morris’s Lake Charles
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33 Funbolaya 34 Society Spice
May 19, 2016 3
Vintage I absolutely love vintage clothes. Always have. When we were kids and played “Dress Up,” there were a couple of big boxes down the cellar filled with old clothes from decades past: big taffeta skirts and hats with feathers and chunky bracelets with missing stones. We’d put them on and my cousin Karen would direct us in her favorite makebelieve scenario: The Palace. Karen was always fascinated by royalty and mansions and bling (she hated Kate Middleton’s gown because “she’s royalty for crying out loud, and that dress was so boring!”). So she’d tell each of us what to wear and how to wear it. And
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then she’d assign us roles. Roseanne Tuttavilla was always the Queen. Roseanne’s sister Elaine and I were Princesses. Carla De Matteo had short hair so she was a Page Boy. No one knew what a Page Boy was, but there was a haircut with that name and Carla had it, so no one, not even Carla, questioned it. Joanie and Karen Capone were Ladies-in-Waiting. Richard was always the Butler, and he had to stand at attention by the shed door and make sure no one came in or out unless they had the secret password. I don’t remember what role Karen had, but it was never the Queen and I always felt bad about that. Since she went through all the
trouble of organizing everything, she really should have been the top dog. She didn’t seem to mind, though. She had so much fun running the show. I’m not sure what we actually did after we were all dressed up. I think Richard was the busiest, opening and closing that shed door. I think we all just sat around in our finery and pretended to sip tea or something while we watched Richard and the door. Occasionally, Karen would make us Say Things, but I don’t remember what they were. I wonder if she remembers. So that’s when I first became enamored with vintage clothes. I would spend hours looking at old family photographs, mostly to see what they were wearing. My mother had saved a lot of her dresses from the old days, and even at a young age, I loved rich material and double-stitched buttonholes. I knew the difference between cheap and quality. A beautiful dress was like a beautiful piece of music to me— perfect and unforgettable. Then there was Barbie. She had a wardrobe to die for. I wanted all of her gorgeous gowns and sundresses. My friends and I would “play Barbie” on the front porch, and sometimes in the downstairs hallway if it was too cold outside. We’d trade outfits
and accessories—purses, pumps, hats, sunglasses. We created scenarios for each outfit. In this dress, Barbie would go out to meet the sailors. In that outfit, Barbie would go out to meet the sailors. Now that I think of it, the only thing we ever had her do was meet sailors. It was my idea, too, as I recall. At that age, I don’t think I had even met any sailors. I had a vivid imagination. Through the years, I’ve worn my mother’s and aunt’s vintage outfits and jewelry. I post photos of clothing and accessories from different eras on Facebook daily because it simply fascinates me. And recently, a friend gave me some outstanding old dresses and suits that are in great shape. What a thrill! With clothing today getting flimsier and cheaper, and quality apparel costing a fortune, the magnificence of vintage fashions stands out more and more. To the good old days!
Lauren Abate
Vol. 8 • No. 4
Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel Holds ‘Topping Out’ Ceremony for New Hotel Tower
Vince Schwartz, Sr. Vice President of Operations for Boyd Gaming; Steve Kuypers, VP and General Manager of Delta Downs; Ted Bogich, Executive Vice President, Operations for Boyd Gaming; and Andrew Kao, Manager, Regional Operations Analysis for Boyd Gaming.
Vol. 8 • No. 4
Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel, a Boyd Gaming property, marked the completion of the exterior of its nine-story hotel tower on May 10 with a topping-out ceremony. The $45 million expansion project, set for completion in December 2016, will further establish Delta Downs as a leading entertainment destination in southwest Louisiana, adding 167 new hotel rooms, a fitness center, swimming pool and a new restaurant. The project also includes a redesign of Delta Downs’ existing 203 hotel rooms and suites. The first phase of the expansion included the February 2016 opening of Rosewater Grill & Tavern, a comfortable, inviting steak and seafood dining concept, delivered with Louisiana flair. “We couldn’t be happier about reaching another milestone in our expansion project,” said Steve Kuypers, Delta Downs Vice President and General Manager. “Our longtime customers are excited about the enhancements, and we hope they enjoy this heightened entertainment experience we are creating at Delta Downs.” Combining the current and new facilities, Delta Downs will offer 370 guest rooms, two fine dining restaurants, a buffet, food court, and coffee bar, as well as a fitness center, swimming pool, entertainment center, VIP lounge and gift shop. “The expansion of Delta Downs not only demonstrates the success of the property, but also our continued commitment to provide exciting entertainment opportunities for new and existing customers,” said Ted Bogich, Executive Vice President, Operations for Boyd Gaming. “Whether you’re a long-time customer or a firsttime visitor, this project provides a great new reason to experience Delta Downs’ unique brand of hospitality.” May 19, 2016 5
by the federal government as being equal to or more stringent than the government’s own inspection program.
Chase Doumite Accepted to Tulane Chase Alexander Doumite has been accepted into the Class of 2020 at Tulane University. Founded in 1834 in New Orleans, Tulane is one of the nation’s most prestigious educational and research institutions. Doumite plans to study engineering physics and aeronautics. He graduated from St. Louis Catholic High School on May 17 with an Honors Diploma. A resident of Lake Charles, he is the son of Kerry Andersen and Gerald Doumite.
Chase Doumite
Local Corporations Support Downtown at Sundown City Savings Bank Announces New Hires City Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Florence Fuselier and Tina Bourgeois have joined its team. Florence Fuselier has been named VP and Commercial Lender. She has 36 years of banking experience and specializes in workFlorence Fuselier Tina Bourgeois ing with area companies to grow their business through credit services and cash management solutions. Her office is located at 3881 Gerstner Memorial Drive in Lake Charles. Tina Bourgeois has been appointed Branch Manager of the Lake Street location at 4850 Lake Street in Lake Charles. Bourgeois has worked for Lakeside National Bank for 16 years and JD Bank for 20 years. For more information, call (337) 463-8661 or visit www.CitySavingsBank.com.
The 18th annual Downtown at Sundown concert series began on May 13 and will run for four consecutive Fridays from 5:30-9 p.m. The popular, family-friendly event is supported by corporate sponsorships from The American Press, Capital One Bank, CITGO, Delta Downs Racetrack & Casino, Empire of the Seed Historic Properties and Entergy. The music headliners are Grammy winner Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys on May 20; Cold Sweat on May 27; and the season wraps up with City Heat on June 3. For more information, go to www.CityOfLakeCharles.com.
Willie Mount Conferred Honorary Doctor of Letters McNeese State University conferred an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree to Willie Landry Mount--a successful Lake Charles business owner, outstanding civic leader, a distinguished mayor and state senator and an ardent supporter of McNeese--during the 146th commencement ceremony at the Burton Complex. Mount received her Bachelor of Science Willie Landry Mount and McNeese State University degree in business adminPresident Dr. Philip C. Williams istration from McNeese in 1974. She serves on the McNeese Foundation Board of Directors, is a recipient of the McNeese Distinguished Alumni Award and has been inducted into the McNeese College of Business Hall of Fame.
WCCH Lab Receives CAP Accreditation The laboratory at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital has been awarded accreditation by the Accreditation Committee of the College of American Pathologists based on the results of a recent onsite inspection. The laboratory at WCCH is one of more than 7,000 CAP-accredited laboratories worldwide. The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program, which began in the early 1960’s, is recognized 6 May 19, 2016
L to R: Mayor Randy Roach; April Altazan, CITGO Lake Charles; Fil Bordelon, LC Marketing President, Capital One Bank; Sara Lasher, Director of Business Development, Empire of the Seed; Ron Childress, Customer Service, Entergy; and Nora Popillion, Director of Entertainment/ PR, Delta Downs (American Press representative not available)
Team CITGO Recognized During National Volunteer Week Team CITGO recently celebrated 4,624 volunteer hours with 376 people volunteering at 40 events throughout 2015, at the annual WAVE Celebration at CITGO Park. The WAVE – “We Are Volunteer Employees” celebration is the annual awards banquet for CITGO employees and friends and family members who gave five or more hours of volunteer service for the year. During the special event, Team CITGO volunteers received awards based on the number of hours they served for the year. This year’s theme was “Krewe de Volontaires” and the top volunteer, CITGO employee Pat Bergeaux, was recognized for 88 hours of service. Team CITGO, which celebrates its 29th anniversary this year, is well-known in SWLA for its impact on the community. Vol. 8 • No. 4
Magnolia LNG Supports St. Nicholas Center
DeRouen Earns Chartered Financial Consultant Designation
Magnolia LNG recently presented a $2,500 donation to the St. Nicholas Center. The donation will help the organization continue its wide range of services for children with autism, developmental delays and neurological disorders. Most of the donation will be put toward St. Nicholas Center’s fundraiser, Brewer’s Plate, while the rest will go toward operational needs. For more information, visit Tammy Truax of Magnolia LNG with Ada O’Quain and Stephanie Henning of the St. Nicholas Center www.StNickCenter.org.
Marty DeRouen, Wealth Management Advisor with Northwestern Mutual has earned the Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) professional designation from The American College, Bryn Mawr, PA. Candidates for the ChFC® designation must complete a minimum of nine courses and 18 hours of supervised examinations. They must also fulfill stringent experience and ethics requirements. Over 50,000 individuals have been awarded the ChFC® designation since its inception in 1982 and the credential is widely regarded as the highest standard of knowledge and trust for financial planning professionals.
Janet Hagan named LAMC Volunteer of the Year
L’Auberge Donates to Shannon Cox Counseling Center
Janet Hagan has been named the 2015 Volunteer of the Year at Lake Area Medical Center. Hagan has been a volunteer since October 2014. From her first day, she has welcomed patients in the Day Surgery waiting room and assisted those having surgery through the check-in process while keeping family members updated on their loved ones’ status. Always seen with a smile, Hagan has exceeded the Community Cares Culture that includes open communication, safety awareness and a commitment to her co-workers and patients. Janet always offers assistance and compassion whenever needed.
L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles donated $5,000 to the Shannon Cox Counseling Center in the form of a sponsorship for Derby for Dollars. All proceeds for the event will benefit Family & Youth’s Shannon Cox Counseling Center’s grief counseling initiative. The Center provides a wide range of constructive and lifechanging services in the form of counseling, consultation, and education to benefit individuals and families in SWLA.
Janet Hagan
McNeese STTI Honor Society Receives Award McNeese’s Kappa Psi Chapter of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing received a Chapter Key Award recognizing its achievements and contributions in nursing at the STTI 43rd Biennial Convention in Las Vegas, Nev. The Chapter Key Awards, established in 1991, honor STTI chapters that excel in chapter-related activities such as: membership recruitment and retention, publicity and programming, professional and leadership development and local, national and international collaboration.
McNeese Professor Honored Dr. Tari Dilks, professor of nursing at McNeese State University, has been named one of three “Influential Louisiana Nurse Practitioner Professors Who Teach Online” by NursePractitionersSchools.com, a California company that identifies programs that offer specialized NP programs and profiles well-respected professors who guide students to clinical success online. Dilks is co-coordinator of McNeese’s Master of Science in Nursing programs and director of the psychiatric/mental health track for the Intercollegiate Consortium for a Master of Science in Nursing partnership involving McNeese, Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond and the University of LouisiDr. Tari Dilks ana at Lafayette. Vol. 8 • No. 4
Marty DeRouen
Keith W. Henson, L’Auberge Casino Resort Sr. VP & GM and Julio R. Galan, President/CEO of Family & Youth
Ds. Raymond James Advisor Named to Leaders Council Tim Andreas with Andreas Global Asset Management Group, An Independent Firm, was named a member of the 2016 Leaders Council. Leaders Council honors are presented only to those financial advisors who have demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to personal service and professional integrity. Members of the Leaders Council represent the top echelon of the firm’s financial advisors, which is a privilege limited to a select few. Membership is based on prior fiscal year production and re-qualification is required annually. Andreas, who joined Raymond James in 2013, has more than 15 years of experience in the financial services industry. He offers full service financial planning and wealth management.
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your new best buddy may just be hanging around their facility. Additionally, the pet store community holds adoption events for many of the rescue groups and some even focus on a particular breed. Unless you are involved with show animals or a professional hunting guide (and you’re not, in all probability) there is no need to support an animal breeder. These rescued animals include representatives from just about any breed at all. If you want a family pet, a rescued mongrel will satisfy that most demanding need for animal affection. Have a great summer with a new friend.
situation (before being in that position) and had to fight her way through the same procedure. Moral of this story? Stay on top of your money and check on it daily if you value it.
Supermarket Roundup
Warmer weather means that we need more fluids to keep ourselves hydrated. But we also like to enjoy beverages that just taste good. This issue features some liquid refreshments that are commonly used year round while the summer months demand an additional intake. These beverages were surveyed for price on Monday, May 16. The prices reported here are the posted ones on Get Your Money the shelf where the product was placed for For those of you dealing with reimburse- sale. Our stores were: Albertsons-Country ments from your medical insurance proClub Road, Market Basket-Nelson Road, Adopt a Shelter Pet! vider, I came upon an interesting tidbit of Kroger-McNeese Street and Walmart-NelIt seems that lately social media (and information. A family member had to go son Road. print media, for that matter) daily men“out of network” to have a medical probtions some poor domestic animal being lem resolved, as there was no one in the Coca-Cola, 12-pack, 12-ounce cans: struck by a vehicle, killed or left cruelly network who could deal with the particuAlbertsons $4.99, Market Basket $3.67 abandoned. Thankfully, we are blessed lar problem. Being “out of network” is al(3/$11), Kroger $$3.34 (3/$10), Walmart with many caring people and organizaways a dreaded condition; bad things im$4.48. tions here in Southwest Louisiana that mediately present themselves before your exist solely to help these creatures of God. glazed-over eyes. The process involved Budweiser Beer, 12-pack, 12-ounce botMy faithful man’s best friend, Gracie Lu, prepayment for the expected non-covered tles: Albertsons $11.99, Market Basket is the result of one those kind people res- costs, deductibles and other expenses not $11.39, Kroger $10.49, Walmart $10.50. cuing her in her time of need (Thank you imagined by a normal person. again, Patti). With the summer months After months of “This is not a bill” state- Coors Light Beer, 12-pack, 12-ounce upon us and outdoor activities aboundments, along with bills, paperwork and bottles: Albertsons $12.49, Market ing, taking in a homeless dog or cat could more phone calls than could be counted, Basket $10.85, Kroger $10.49, Walmart increase the pleasure level for your family, the monetary situation resolved itself $9.99. not to mention the life-changing comafter a relationship was formed with the panionship for those living alone. There’s billing office person who was contacted Gatorade, assorted flavors, 32-ounce nothing like the warm greeting at the door on numerous occasions, and our friend bottle: Albertsons $1 (10/$10), Market by a cold nose when you come home to an finally received confirmation that the Basket $.89, Kroger $1, Walmart $.88. empty house. reimbursement was coming. She discovThe Calcasieu Parish Animal Servered that they don’t send out a check until Whole milk, store brand, gallon conices maintain an adoption center for the you call and ask for it. The billing office tainer: Albertsons $3.99, Market Basket captured strays that roam the area and person said that she had been in a similar $3.49, Kroger $3.79, Walmart $2.97.
This is one special little guy! He came to us three years ago, a matted mess. We knew he had one bad eye and that the other would need artificial tears for the rest of his life. He was adopted but sadly, was returned to us, having been abandoned again. Only this time, the sight in his other eye was gone. “Biltateral enucleation” (removal of both eyes) was the recommendation of the vet. (He has a gofundme.com/hope-for-warren page to help with the expense of surgery.) He has had the surgery and is doing remarkably well-this is one little trooper! He is excellent at following the voice of his person and learns quickly how to navigate his environment. He is now a senior fellow but has many good years of life and love left in him. This sweet boy has walked in darkness alone, for some time now but his heart is always light. We want to be sure he will never be alone again. For more information, call or email: 337-478-7294; lapaw@bellsouth. net. Vet check and home visit required prior to all adoptions. 8 May 19, 2016
Vol. 8 • No. 4
Spaghetti Squash Primavera Well, another school year has ended and it’s time for vacation and to burn off some calories! The question often asked in my house is “What’s for dinner and is it healthy?” We’ve had to get creative with one of my favorites, Pasta Primavera, using a spring medley of vegetables and replacing the pasta with spaghetti squash. From our kitchen to yours, bon apetit!
Ingredients
and green beans, stirring frequently, for three to five minutes, or until mushrooms release liquid. Add wine and basil, stirring frequently, for three to five minutes, or until soft. Set aside. Cut squash in half lengthwise. Remove seeds. Scrape flesh into stringy noodles. Evenly divide squash between three bowls. Evenly top with onion mixture, cheese, and parsley (if desired).
1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 lbs.) 1 tbsp. olive oil 2 tbsp. Cajun Red Head Season All 1 medium onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped ½ cup julienne peppers ½ cup white wine ½ cup banana peppers sliced 1 cup cauliflower pieces 1 cup fresh green beans cut into 1-inch length 4 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped 3 tbsp. shredded Parmesan cheese Chopped parsley (for garnish; optional)
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350° F. Place squash on parchment-lined baking sheet. Poke squash two or three times with a fork. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until tender. Cool for 20 to 30 minutes. While the squash cooks, heat oil in medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and peppers and stir frequently for three to five minutes, or until translucent. Add garlic and stir frequently for one minute. Add cauliflower Vol. 8 • No. 4
May 19, 2016 9
Photos by Chris Romero
Sanford & Son A woman swam for her life on Seventh Street and was rescued by the Lake Charles Police Department. Four inches of rain by noon and my friend’s trailered boat floats in his backyard. John LeMay rescued his daughter’s new red Chevy Camaro from the rising waters and left her his Trail Blazer SUV. Meanwhile, with her road flooded yet again, Jeannette Nelson was furious with Cameron Parish for failing to clear her drainage ditch. High water was even endangering my favorite fishing farm pond: hers. All this by noon with much more precipitation predicted. Anyone would have to be insane to fish today. “Pick you up this afternoon,” Mark Fontenot declared. He sounded sane. My hearing aids must need fresh batteries. “Sounds good. Have to run a couple of errands but I’ll be free after 2:30. Think the rain will slack off ?” I replied. Delusion is effective angling motivation. “You have to have faith, brother,” my podna Mark prophetically proclaimed. “Yea, right,” I said and started humming. “I think it 10 May 19, 2016
will rain.” So we went on faith-Mark’s, mostly. The trip to south of Hackberry, then west and south of the Strategic Oil Reserve to Jim Bel’s marsh was a chuckle a minute as Sanford Fontenot and son Mark cast quips, insults, and terms of endearment all the way down. Those of you who didn’t grow up Cajun may not get this. You’d think they were mad at each other the way they talked. My best friend, Big Charlie, was down one time for a duck hunt and after watching my father and I do the same routine with us cussing in French and English, he truly thought we were fighting until we hugged, kissed on the cheek, and exchanged “I love yous” as I moved to leave. Charles was appalled, but picking at and on each other is a Cajun conversing norm.
So there we were on the gravel roadside with storms
to the left and to the right of us and I was stuck in the
Mark and Sanford Fontenot Vol. 8 • No. 4
middle with the Fontenots fishing. My girlfriend Rue was right, I’m nuts. Maybe, but the proof is in the angling. We slipped chartreuse Gulp Lures onto our hooks and Sanford caught a redfish on his second cast. Mark and I finished rigging up, cheering his dad on with our hoots and hollers. The fun was on. The rain-driven water was roaring through the flume back into Jim’s marsh. We set up on the south side and began slowly working our baits on either side and beyond the thunderous flow. It didn’t take Mark long to fight and for me to net a nice keeper redfish. Then Sanford, with a loud whoop, hooked another, but this red fell an inch short of the 16 required inches and so back it went. A lightning storm with crashing thunder was working just to our east but played out. All we got was a sprinkle. As Mark stated, “You have to have faith.” Hmmmmmmm. Mark began what was to be a day for flounder as he hooked and with delighted cries, landed his first of four. I cast out beyond the flow, bent to light my pipe out of the wind, then worked the lure ever so slowly as something kept bumping it. I let it sit, then did a slow pull and Bam! it was on. My turn for a flounder. Not to be outdone, Sanford moved across the road to where the water was hurling into the culvert pipe. He worked it just past the flow and nearer the bank. The fish took off with his bait and it was Sanford’s time for a flounder. Not to be out-fished, I hurled my lure along with my rod and reel into the Vol. 8 • No. 4
incredibly clear water. That clarity proved beneficial as I could see the butt of my Ugly Stick rod just below the banks edge. Sanford complimented my somewhat unique toss with a guffaw and a facetious, “Nice cast.” Undaunted, I retrieved my rod. This time, I cast without losing my whole rig, let it set and took the time to light my pipe again with my back to the wind. Puffing away now, I started my bait with a bump de bump and then Bam! my pipe-assisted technique garnered yet another fine flounder. Mark was working the right side of the flume flow and he landed a keeper red fish with expert net work by yours truly. The off and on sprinkle continued and a thunderstorm out of the west passed through and forced us into the truck to wait it out. Fifteen minutes later we were back working the flow out and into the marsh. This time, the reds seemed to be more active as we caught several that were too small to keep and tossed them back. Then the flounder started again and we added 12 more. Not bad for a twoand-half-hour angling event. More rain and lightning were moving in and Sanford thought discretion would be the better part of valor and we’d used up all of our luck anyway. The ride back gave Mark the chance to boast about faith and the soon to be filleted flounder. Fishing with Sanford and Son was like my fishing article about Jake Shaheen and Mark angling the Lacassine pool, an unforgettable angling and quip experience. As Mark would add, “Keep the faith, baby.”
Shane, Roger, Jeanette & Glenn
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Back in 1984, I went to New Orleans with my grandfather. We were not going on a simple family vacation but instead, we were headed to the Louisiana World Exposition. I remember the smile on his face as we walked through the gates with tickets in hand. I was just a young buck, but my memories of the trip are vivid. The sites were truly mind-blowing and almost too much to take in. From the space shuttle to the new inventions, it was like a blast into what everyone envisioned what our future would hold. A monorail was built on the site just for this event that was amazing. An even a better ride was the aerial gondola transport system that connected the fair site on the East Bank of the Mississippi
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River with the West Bank (Old Algiers). For the price of a $3.50 round-trip ticket, riders were shuttled 2,500 feet across the Mississippi in one of 53 six-passenger, teapot-shaped cars strung from cables suspended 320 feet above the river. After the fair, the gondolas briefly became part of the city’s mass transit system. Not only have fairs and expositions themselves played a big role in history, their souvenirs are highly collectable because of the impact the fair had to the visitor. I have around 50 original items and I am still on the lookout for more. From posters, matchbooks, pins, cigarette packs, shot glasses, spoons and coins, I collect these items because of the memories I shared with my grandfather there. Posters from earlier world expositions fetch huge amounts depending on the condition, such as the one held in New
York in 1939. Here’s a small history lesson: Covering 1,216 acres, in Flushing Meadows, the 1939 New York World’s Fair, like the legendary Phoenix rising from the ashes, was erected on what was an ash-dump. The theme, “Building the World of Tomorrow” echoed in virtually every corner of the Fair. It opened on May 30, 1939, which was the 150th anniversary of the inauguration of George Washington in New York City, the nation’s first capitol. While some of the pavilions were still under construction and not yet open, the first day of the fair was attended by 206,000 visitors. Then-President Franklin D. Roosevelt gave the opening speech while an estimated 1,000 visitors watched on 200 televisions sets in various locations throughout the fair. These two fairs are my favorites, but all were extremely important to history
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due to what came from each. Not only were there visions of tomorrow, but it was also a way for the world to get together and show off what each country had accomplished. In addition, the history of architecture was influenced by these fairs. World expos have long been important in advancing architectural innovation and discourse. Many of our most beloved monuments were designed and constructed specifically for expositions, only to remain as iconic fixtures in the cities that hosted them. Throughout history, each new expo offered architects an opportunity to present radical ideas and they used these events as a creative laboratory for testing bold innovations in design and building technology. World fairs inevitably encourage competition, with every country striving to put their best foot forward at any cost. This carte blanche of sorts allows architects to eschew many of the programmatic constraints of everyday commissions and concentrate on expressing ideas in their purest form. Many masterworks such as Mies van der Rohe’s German Pavilion (better known as the Barcelona Pavilion) for the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition are so wholeheartedly devoted to
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their conceptual approach that they could only be possible in the context of an exposition pavilion. Ever since the first World’s Fair in London in 1851, the goals have been both high-minded as well as commercial. They also allow people to explore the world outside of their everyday experience — outside cultures, new scientific advancements, and new inventions. As times change, world expositions have changed to fit those times. They continue to reflect both the commercial needs of their times while presenting the ideals and aspirations of the people even as those evolve. There will always be new ways to inspire, new ways to enlighten, and new ways to entertain. We also can’t discount the attraction of experiencing something new as part of a group, a community. Perhaps that should be the mission of world expositions now— to make us even the slightest bit less cynical about the world and to let us feel we are a part of that world—and you can rarely experience that from your television or computer. Get out and experience life and be a part of history in the making.
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L A K E
C H A R L E S
M E M O R I A L
H O S P I TA L
Dr. Nathan Cohen At the Cutting Edge of Orthopedic Knee Surgery for 35 Years and Counting 3D imaging, virtual reality and augmented reality – these are the new buzz words that will be influencing medicine and healthcare in years to come. No, Scotty won’t be beaming you up any time soon - these are simply some of the latest advancements in the world of orthopedic surgery that have been utilized and studied by Orthopedic Surgeon Nathan Cohen, MD with the Memorial Medical Group. For over three decades, Dr. Cohen has been at the forefront of bringing 14 May 19, 2016
cutting edge techniques in orthopedic surgery to his own practice as well as advising others in new leading, cutting-edge technology. His interest in the technological breakthroughs in his field, his calm demeanor and friendly bedside manner, and his excellent track record for surgical success and patient satisfaction have made him a sought-after orthopedic specialist in Lake Charles for the last 34 years and counting. And he has no intention of slowing down in the near future.
“On a daily basis, I am asked if I am retiring soon,” Dr. Cohen said. “However, I still have the energy and enthusiasm to continue with an active joint replacement practice, which I very much enjoy.” When considering what makes Dr. Cohen such a uniquely knowledgeable orthopedic surgeon, one need only look at his background. He earned a degree in biomedical engineering from Imperial College, University of London, England, one of the world’s most Vol. 8 • No. 4
joint replacement surgery required over a prestigious universities (England’s MIT), week of hospital stay followed by months before returning to Canada to attend of recovery time. Now, thanks to the new medical school at the University of Western Ontario. His engineering background minimally-invasive surgical techniques and medications, patients may often go gives him a unique perspective on the architecture of joint systems, the problem home the same day, or at most, within 24-36 hours after surgery. They also enjoy solving of their mechanics and how the a much more pain-free parts of the body and recovery because of new replacement parts work drugs on the market to together. treat post-surgical pain. “My time in England One such drug, Exparel®, offered a phenomenal exis a non-opioid, nonperience. It was basically narcotic pain medicaa think tank of doctors tion that is injected by and engineers working the surgeon during the together to solve medical procedure. It is time problems,” he said. released, so it controls That background also the pain from surgery for gives Dr. Cohen a deep several days afterward interest and understandwithout having to rely on ing of many of the newthe usual amount of narest tools that will be cotic pain medications. available to assist not Dr. Cohen is excited only in hip and knee about how far orthoreplacement surgeries, pedic surgery has come but also in medicine in Dr. Nathan Cohen and what the future will general. Think of being bring for patients and his commitment able to put on virtual reality goggles and to staying ahead of orthopedic advancewalk into a patient’s knee, heart, brain ments. He has been testing new Ocuand more for diagnosis and treatment. lus virtual reality goggles, which use 3D The latest knee surgery techniques begin with a three-dimensional image of the imaging views from MRI or CT scans, and joint. This imaging allows for the patient’s allow physicians to have a 360 degree view of the joint, from within the joint. This unique knee to be measured and studied provides a different point of view for the in-depth before surgery even occurs. In physician, and can even assist with diagthe case of knee replacement surgery, the patient’s knee measurement scans are used nosing certain conditions of the knee or other joints. The medical applications of to design guides to remove and replace this technology are still in developmental arthritic surfaces extremely accurately. stages, but Dr. Cohen is optimistic about Those parts will fit perfectly within the their practical applications in the future. body, because they were made from that “Advances continue in orthopedics patient’s unique measurements. with newer materials and designs, which The surgery itself is also a much more streamlined process, allowing perfect po- make people almost bionic,” Dr. Cohen said. “With virtual and augmented reality, sitioning of the replacement parts. These you enter an entirely new world. When benefits of mechanical precision allow you don the goggles, all of a sudden you for longer-lasting replacements, shorter recovery times, less pain and happier out- are actually inside the human body. It’s a brave new frontier at the forefront of cutcomes. ting edge technology.” In the future, with augmented reality Technological advancements and modgoggles (where one can see their surern medicine often go hand-in-hand, and rounding environment with overlapping Dr. Cohen is an experienced orthopedic computer 3D images), procedures will be surgeon and biomedical engineer who not even faster and more exacting – almost only understands that, but also embraces it. Star Trek-like. If you are interested in more information Surgery recovery has also come a long on the latest in hip and knee replacement way in the last three decades. When Dr. surgery, please visit lcmh.com/cohen. Cohen began his orthopedics practice, Vol. 8 • No. 4
May 19, 2016 15
BUYING
or
SELLING YOUR HOME?
Meet Realtor®
Toni Alexander By Lauren Abate The real estate business is booming in the Lake Area. Whether you are selling or buying, now is a great time to jump into the market! Toni Alexander is a Realtor® with the Century 21 office of Mike D. Bono and Co. in Lake Charles. She has been in the business for three years, and loves what she does. “Before this, I was teaching eighth grade English and was not really happy with that,” she explains. She got into the business after she and her husband (the talented potter Rex Alexander) remodeled their home. Usually a nightmare for most people, that wasn’t the case for Toni. “I had a great time with that,” she recalls. “I started really paying attention to the housing market and building trends and architectural styles. People always say that remodeling or building is stressful, but I enjoyed it so much. That made me start to think of it as a career. And I like working with people, so I thought this would be a great fit for me—and it is.” Toni loves being a Realtor®. “It’s an honor to have people trust you enough and allow you into their lives in a very personal way. Buying a home is a major life event, and it affects all other aspects of your life, too. Because it’s so personal to them, it’s personal to me, too.” A people person, Toni enjoys getting to know the whole family and really understanding what they’re looking for in a home. “It’s very rewarding to help people in this way. I have many friends now that I met through real estate, helping them to find a home, and along the way we became good friends. We still get together, we visit. We have a relationship now because they trusted me. That is very rewarding.” Toni says that presently, the market is moving very fast. “There’s lots of hustle and bustle,” she says. “If you are thinking of buying or selling, spend some time thinking about what you really want, what your needs are, what would be best for your family. Spend time talking to your lender and get everything in order, because once you contact your Realtor and start the process, everything happens really fast. Best to have all of your ducks in a row, as best as you can, before you jump into the market. This will make the experience a lot less stressful for you and your family.” 16 May 19, 2016
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A typical day for Toni involves making phone calls, trying to answer every call that comes in, and “trying to stay in one place long enough to charge the battery on your phone! There’s lots of multi-tasking, paying attention to deadlines, and keeping everything organized,” she says. “Every day is different, but always fastpaced and exciting. I get to meet new people every day and talk to them about the history of their homes, or how great their neighborhood is. Everyone has a story they’d like to tell you. Going to work is fun!” Of course, her job doesn’t end at 5 p.m. “So many people think that Realtors® make their own hours, but really, we work ALL the time,” Toni says. “Nights, weekends, open houses. It doesn’t stop!” Luckily, her family is understanding. “I’m fortunate that my family is very supportive of me. They’ve come to understand the demands of being a Realtor® and now they just go along with it. When a client needs you, they
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really, really need you. They need you to stop whatever you’re doing and help them figure out whatever issue they’re having. It may seem like this would be annoying, but it’s really fun. There’s never a dull moment. When a client gives you a heart-felt thank you because you managed to get their sewer fixed on a Saturday evening, you feel like a rock star! Then you can take that positive energy back to your family and everyone wins!” Are there any tips she can offer to potential home sellers? “We’re in a prime seller’s market right now, and if you’re considering selling, now is the perfect time,” she says. “I highly suggest that you find a Realtor® that you trust and that you’re compatible with and let him or her help you. There are lots of great Realtors in our area who can help you sell your property fast and maximize your profit. Don’t go it alone! Realtors are qualified professionals, bound by a code of ethics. Trust a professional to
help you.” Speaking of ethics, Toni says that Realtors® take Ethics courses, along with yearly Continuing Ed courses to keep their license active, and learn about changes in the industry. It’s a learning process that spans the lifetime of a career. “I really enjoy what I do and I try to make real estate enjoyable for my clients as well,” Toni says. “I’m all about customer service and exceeding the needs of my clients. I encourage people to take their time and not to settle for something they don’t really want. Your home is the backdrop to everything else in your life. You have to make the right decision, even if it takes a little time. “I had a client, now a friend (shoutout, Tawana!), whom I worked with for almost a year. She always told me how thankful she was for my patience and willingness to keep going with her. It took us a little time, but now she’s happy in her dream home.” To contact Toni Alexander with your real estate needs, email tonialexanderc21@gmail.com or call (337) 802-6630.
May 19, 2016 17
D O W N T O W N
A T
S U N D O W N
Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys The second installment of the Downtown at Sundown concert series will feature Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys with Barbe Show Choir to open the show on Friday, May 20 beginning at 5:30 p.m. The Mamou Playboys began 28 years ago with a reputation for excellence. The group has 13 recordings and four GRAMMY nominations. Steve Riley is a widely acknowledged master of the Cajun accordion and its singularly powerful sound. His playing is a standard by which timing, phrasing and ingenuity are measured. He exudes searing, emotional vocals, songwriting, soulful fiddling and on-
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stage front man charisma. Sam Broussard plays acoustic, electric and electric slide along with his songwriting, arranging and singing. Cofounder and fiddler, David Greely, retired from the band in 2011 after his audiologist informed him he needs to steer clear of dancehall sound levels. The band then welcomed Kevin Wimmer, who began his musical training at age four with his mother, a respected violinist who is on the Juilliard School of Music faculty. Kevin Dugas on drums, and Brazos Huval
on bass round out the rhythm section. www.mamouplayboys.com It is through the support of corporate sponsors that this popular, family-friendly event is sustained. This year’s sponsors are American Press, Capital One Bank, CITGO, Delta Downs Racetrack & Casino, Entergy and Empire of the Seed Historic Properties. The season will continue with Jazz in the Arts opening for Cold Sweat on May 27, and will wrap up with City Heat on June 3. In the event of inclement weather, the concerts will be held inside the Lake Charles Civic Center. Beverage sales will benefit the Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana; therefore no outside beverages will be permitted on site. Bring your lawn chairs but leave your pets at home. www.literacyswla.org.
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The Works of Women 2016 Art Exhibit will open on May 19 at 6 p.m. featuring over 40 talented female artists from Lake Charles and Sulphur!. There will be everything from photography, paintings, and sculptures/pottery to enjoy. Henning Cultural Center, 923 South Ruth Street, Sulphur. (337) 527-0357.
to be the largest and most successful mental health awareness and fundraising event in SWLA! Through NAMIWalks’ public, active display of support for people affected by mental illness, they are changing how Americans view persons with mental health conditions. Join them at the Lake Charles Amphitheater on May 21 starting at 7 a.m. as they improve lives and our community one step at a time! For more information, call 433-0219.
KCSWLA Productions Presents Grease! May 20-21
Story Time & Photography Walk May 21
Works of Women Exhibit Opens May 19
Don’t miss Grease! Live theatrical production and sing-along, directed by Keith Chamberlain. Performances will be held at the Mount Theatre at Central School, May 20-21 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling 302-2259 or visiting KCProductionsSWLA.yapsody.com.
Starks Mayhaw Festival May 20 Welcome to Mayhaw Country! This year, the festival will be a one-day event with the Starks Mayhaw Gospel Singing on Fri., May 20, from 4-11 p.m. Come out and enjoy the great music, food and participate in the silent auction. For more information, go to www. mayhawfest.com.
NAMIWalks for Health May 21 As NAMIWalks celebrates its 14th Anniversary, they are proud
At 1 p.m. on May 21, head out to Sam Houston Jones State Park for a new program, courtesy of the Moss Bluff Library! Library staff will be on hand to share a story. Following story time, attendees can walk down one of the park´s nature trails and snap photos of the local wildlife. For more information, call (337) 855-2665.
Book Signing by LC Author Scott E. Raymond May 21 Lake Charles author Scott E. Raymond will have a book signing at Gordon’s Drug and Fine Gifts, 2716 Lake St., Lake Charles on Saturday, May 21 (Armed Forces Day), from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is in conjunction with Raymond’s recently published novel, Going Home: One Sailor’s Inner Search During the Turbulent Early 1970s. Going Home highlights the all-important fatherson relationship; in this case, between two war veterans. Set in the early 1970s, with the U.S. nearing an exit from a protracted and unpopular Vietnam War, the story’s backdrop spans America’s closing combat role in Vietnam; a national, political scourge called Watergate and an international oil embargo. For more information, visit www.scotteraymond.com or e-mail Scott E. Raymond at scottraymond@suddenlink.net.
Rotary Presents Whodunit Dinner & Dance May 21 Sunrise Rotary presents “Clucky’s Country Kitchen American Traveling Variety Show” a whodunit interactive dinner on May 21 at the American Legion Hall, 1403 W Napoleon St., Sulphur. Starts at 7 p.m., tickets are $50 per person and included dinner, dancing, theatrical performance, event glass and photo. Must be purchased in advance at sulphursunriserotary.com or by calling (337) 2151602 (ask for Robyn).
‘A Brewer’s Plate’ May 21 There’s a good time brewing at “A Brewer’s Plate” presented by Hoffoss Devall and Coushatta Tribe on Sat., May 21 at 6 p.m. at the Cash & Carry building in downtown Lake Charles. This is the marquee fundraising event of St. Nicholas Center for Children, a local non-profit dedicated to providing services to children with autism and developmental delays. Includes a four-course meal and premium beer pairing with an auction and live music by community favorites, City Heat. Attire is dressy casual. Tables of eight are $1,000 and sponsorships are available. For information, call 491-0800.
Movies in the Square May 21 Bring the whole family to Movies in the Square at the Grove at 20 May 19, 2016
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Heritage Square, 1211 Ruth St, Sulphur. Movie begins around 7:30 (sundown) and admission is free! Call (337) 313-1302 for more information Wreck It Ralph is rated PG.
their families outside the scope of healthcare. Butterflies will be released at 1p.m. Visit www.harborfoundation.com or call (409) 730-2029.
ACTS Theatre Presents The Producers May 27-28, June 3-4, 10-12
Catch a Concert Series Mondays June 6-27
ACTs presents The Producers! A down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most notorious flop in history, thereby bilking their backers (all “little old ladies”) out of millions of dollars. Only one thing goes awry: the show is a smash hit! For ticket info, go to www.actstheatre.com.
Enjoy a beautiful sunset by the lakefront while listening to a musical performance from the Lake Charles Community Band every Monday starting June 6 through the 27th. Remember to bring your lawn chairs. Picnics welcome. In case of rain, the concert will be held inside the Civic Center on 2nd floor mezzanine. Starts at 7 p.m. Free admission. (337) 825-6864.
LCLT Presents Snow White June 4
BayouCon June 24-26
Lake Charles Little Theater is pleased to announce encore presentations of Snow White, an interactive show that engages children throughout the performance and places several on-stage. Bring a child, grandchild, or treat a friend to a fun-filled theatre event! Two performances at 10 a.m. and noon on June 4. All tickets $10. (337) 433-7988.
BayouCon celebrates its 8th year with a spectacular show in store for everyone June 24-26 at the West Cal event center. SWLA’s premiere fan-produced Comic and Pop Culture Convention is excited to welcome Taylor Gray from Star Wars Rebels as the main guest of honor, along with Bobby Clark of Star Trek, Robert Axelrod of Power Rangers, Ann Mahoney of The Walking Dead, and Scott L. Schwartz. Three days packed full of events you won’t want to miss! Get all the information at www.bayoucon.net.
Harbor Foundation Butterfly Release June 4 The Harbor Foundation will host its inaugural Butterfly Release on Saturday, June 4 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Held at the Lake Charles Civic Center, the event will feature music and entertainment, food and children’s activities. Admission and activities are free! Proceeds from the event will go towards help patients and
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Gulf Coast Shrimp & Jazz Festival June 25 Celebrate Jazz in its many forms! Bring the family and come out to the Civic Center on June 25 to enjoy Jazz, shrimp and all kinds of fun events! Adults $5, kids under 12 $2. (337) 309-2712.
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Lake Area Medical Center
Lake Area Medical Center is hosting two Friday Night Girls Night Out for girls ages 9-16. This informative session is facilitated by local OB/GYN physicians and other healthcare professionals. A series of presentations will be offered on topics ranging from anatomy and self-esteem--to puberty, hygiene and nutrition--and much more. Cost is $20 per person and pre-registration and parental consent are required to attend. Seating is limited. Dinner and door prizes will be offered. The first session will be on June 24, from 4:30-8:30 p.m. The second session will be on August 12, from 4:30-8:30 p.m. To register, please call 475-4075. More information can be found by visiting www.lakeareamc.com. Lake Area Medical Center is also hosting three Safe Sitter® classes on Thursday, June 3; Monday June 27; and Monday, July 18. This is a hands-on class that teaches boys and girls ages 11 to 13 how to handle emergencies and care for children safely. Attendees will learn how to handle emergencies and care for children safely. Additionally, attendees will learn childcare skills like diapering and feeding, how to call for emergency help, and babysitting business skills. The cost is $45 and includes supplies, a tote bag and lunch. Classes are from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. To register, please call 475-4075. More information can be found by visiting www.lakeareamc.com.
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Soulstice Kids’ Yoga Summer Camp July 11-15, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., ages 5-18 Gardening, cooking, dancing, meditation, dancing, henna art, teepee construction, global understanding and more! Cost is $300, registration deadline is June 20. Call Tiffany at (337) 660-9122.
Our Lady Queen of Heaven Family Life Community Center Basketball (June 6-9), HiHoops (June 20-23), Chess (June 25- 26), Robotics (June 27-30), Soccer (Aug 1 – 4). Also, weekday afternoon Summer Fun Time from 1:30-4:30 p.m. all summer for $5/day. Call 474-6814 or visit www.olqhflcc.org for more information.
Local High School Student Places at State Poetry Out Loud Event
Finalists from around the state competed in the Poetry Out Loud State Fi-
nals competition in Baton Rouge. Lake Charles’ own Mekenzie Peshoff, a sophomore at Barbe High School, and 1st place finalist in the Local and Regional competitions, placed 3rd in the State Competition with her performances of “Revenge” by Letitia Elizabeth Landon, “The Gaffe” by C.K. Williams, and “On Quitting” by Edgar Albert Guest. This was Mekenzie’s first year to compete, but she says it won’t be her last. Students who are interested in competing in this annual event should contact the Arts Council beginning in September. Event information is disseminated in the fall, and competitions are typically held in early January and February. Schools that wish to host their own competition are also urged to contact the Arts Council. For more information about Poetry Out Loud, contact Charla Blake at charlab@ artscouncilswla.org, or call 439-ARTS. Vol. 8 • No. 4
By Justin Morris Long, long ago in the mythical land of Longview, Texas there was born a boy. Well, hatched, more appropriately, was a boy, the nephew of the great Evel Knievel… a boy who would wrestle full grown armadillos by the age of three, ruin his first marriage by the age of six and who would recite the words of Longfellow and James Joyce without flaw by the tender age of ten. By the time he finished high school, he went clinically insane, stole a guitar and motorcycle, and went on to become the man we all know today as Rodney Carrington. What’s that, you say? You don’t believe me? Well, I’ll admit, I didn’t believe any of it either till I got the pleasure of getting a few minutes to get some questions in with the man himself. JAM: Is it true that you are related to Evel Knievel? RC: He was my uncle. JAM: Did it make you nervous when he jumped over the Snake River? RC: Terrified. JAM: How about when he did the jump at Caesars Palace? Did that make you nervous? RC: Oddly, no. I knew he would make it. He was a tough old bastard. JAM: Your latest stand-up comedy album, Laughter’s Good, went to No. 1 and the first three albums on your record label have gone to either number 1 or number 2. Does that mean you’re getting funnier or do people get you more? RC: I like to think that my comedy is connecting with people. I usually talk about real life and family. Most of my ideas come from both and people can relate to both. JAM: Where did your creative spark come from? Was it comedy or music that spoke to you artistically first, and what compelled you to pursue, not just either of Vol. 8 • No. 4
those, but really both of them, eventually as a career? RC: I guess I realized at an early age that I could make people laugh. I’ve been doing this for over 20 years now, so I’m definitely more comfortable in front of an audience. But it has never really bothered me being on stage in front of people doing music or comedy. They both go hand in hand with what I do. JAM: How would you best describe your sense of humor? Specifically, what do you feel makes people laugh and what particular things put a smile on your face worth mentioning? RC: My kids make me laugh. For me, it really comes from real life and real situations. If people can relate to it and it is funny, they will laugh. JAM: To be unfair, if you were left with no other option but to do comedy or music exclusively, which one would you choose? RC: Comedy. That was really unfair. JAM: What’s the best part about doing what you do and what keeps you burning up the roads to keep it up after all this time? RC: Just seeing the people that come to my shows. I have been doing this for so long now, that they are like family. I have been playing Lake Charles for years now and always enjoy hearing from people that say they saw me back in the clubs or when I was first starting out. JAM: Who was your inspiration? RC: My inspiration is easy: My kids. Yes, I know I used that answer twice. JAM: Is there anything your fans might not know about you? RC: Why yes. I am part of the techno DJ duo called Urny and Burny Perverti. I’m Urny. We are killing it in Europe right now. In the states, we open for the Dutch DJ, Tiesto at the Hakasan nightclub in Las Vegas. Ok, some of that is not true. Although I do own a record player. Ok, that’s not true
either. JAM: Anything else? RC: I’m not that good in bed. Damn it, here I go lying again. I’m sorry, actually I’m fantastic in bed. JAM: If you could go back in a time machine 25 years, would you help David Hasselhoff ’s career or would you stop it? RC: I would stop it. Long before he ever got to where he was. At least before that Knight Rider sequel. JAM: Is it true that you were on last month’s cover of Hunter magazine and in the woods you are known as The Predator? RC: Yes. That is true. JAM: Were you nervous when you posed for Playgirl? RC: A little. JAM: What are you working on now? RC: I’m always touring. This year, we will do over 120 shows and are even going to Australia for the first time! There is always new comedy that is in my show. The show that I do in Lake Charles this time will be way different then the last time I was there. There is a lot of new stand up and new songs. Regarding music, we are starting to work on a new album where I do duets with country artists. You heard it here first. That should be a lot of fun. JAM: If there is one thing you want people to remember about you after they have seen your show, what would that be? RC: I just hope that they had a good time, laughed a lot and maybe forgot about their problems for a couple of hours. JAM: One more question about Evel Knievel: What was it like growing up around him? RC: No idea. We were not really related… Well, so much for that! In fact, this intrepid journalist has recently discovered that Rodney Carrington WILL NOT be making a record-breaking jump over L’Auberge Casino Resort, but he will be performing there on the night of Saturday, May 28 with doors opening at 6 p.m. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com. And here I thought we were getting a world record attempt. Can’t trust no one these days… May 19, 2016 23
Lake Charles Writer
Scott E. Raymond Publishes Novel
Lake Charles writer Scott E. Raymond, 63, has published his first novel, Going Home: One Sailor’s Inner Search During the Turbulent Early 1970s. The salient power of faith, family, comradeship and love are artfully interwoven in the dramatic story of a young American sailor’s search for acceptance and happiness during the turbulent early 1970s. In 1972, Ben Bradford’s long-held desire for a close father-son connection with the decorated World War II veteran he calls “Pop” is heightened following an unusual dream one night aboard ship. Ben sees into the past of 1943 and a life-changing event in Pop’s life that sets in motion a swift series of transformational events in the life of the idealistic navy volunteer. Set in the early 1970s, with the U.S. nearing an exit from a protracted and unpopular Vietnam War, the story’s backdrop spans America’s closing combat role in Vietnam; a national, political scourge called Watergate and an international oil embargo. Going Home delivers a memorable, personal story of hope during a unique time of national trial in American history. Says Raymond: “In its own special way, Going Home highlights the all-important father-son relationship, in this case, between two war veterans. Equally important, but in a broader context, the story explores a young sailor’s attempt to find himself during a turbulent time in our nation’s history.” Raymond has written numerous magazine articles and authored one non-fiction book about veterans, Voices Behind the Bricks. A native of Lake Charles, his career in public information and communications covered parish law enforcement and state and local government. Raymond served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CVA-64) during two WESTPAC/Vietnam combat cruises in 1972 and 1973. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy in 1977. A graduated of McNeese State University, Raymond lives in SSWLA with his wife Sherrie. Going Home is available for purchase on-line now at http://www.scotteraymond.com and will be available at upcoming events to be announced.
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Political Suicide
Who will you vote for, come November? No doubt, you probably know whom you’re not voting for, but at least one candidate on your party’s ticket has captured your attention. Now, you just have to hope nobody does anything to jeopardize that or make you change your mind. In the new book, Political Suicide by Erin McHugh, you’ll see that all kinds of things can go wrong. Politicians are human. There are surely times when you’d like to think otherwise, but the truth is that they laugh, they cry, they love – and they do boneheaded things. Their greed gets the better of them. Their egos need stroking, or their tempers take over. Take, for instance, Daniel Sickles. Though the New York State assemblyman was a known philanderer himself, he was furious that his missus enjoyed a dalliance. Sickles killed his wife’s lover and went to trial but pleaded temporary insanity, becoming the first person to successfully be acquitted in that manner. Also lucky was a California Congressman who killed Vol. 8 • No. 4
a man over a lack of breakfast; he likewise served no jail time. Throughout history, there have been many scandalous quirks in politics. One sitting Congressman served his country from an insane asylum. One was re-elected to Congress while in jail. And one notable Congressman told a megawhopper of a lie to gain his seat, then tried to explain it by saying that he was “a prisoner” of his own story. There’s money to be found in politics – although, unfortunately, it doesn’t always belong to the politician. That doesn’t always stop them from taking the cash, however: one state treasurer who called himself Honest Dick, “in fact, was not.” Questionable loans are altogether too common. And imagine the shock when one small town discovered that its comptrollertreasurer “stole $53 million… money right out of the pockets of her friends and neighbors.” There have been sex scandals aplenty in politics, words that went awry, and a lot of big mouths. Racism has reared its terrible head, as has doublecrossing and blame-laying.
History repeats itself in contentious elections and Supreme Court nominations. And at least one political “man among men” wasn’t a man at all… Looking for a little levity in the wreckage of this political year? You’ll find some between the lines in Political Suicide, but don’t expect belly laughs or goofy stories. No, author Erin McHugh gives readers lots of true (and outrageous!) tales, but the humor comes from the situations themselves more than from the author. McHugh is quick to point out the ridiculousness of what happened but she also puts things into historical and cultural perspective; what’s more,
her accounts seem sympathetic now and then, especially when naiveté is involved. That gives readers a nice balance of silly, sad, and scandalous. What’s not to like about that? Nothing, that’s what – so, White House watchers, voters, fed-up folks, and historians should want to read this book. If you need a hint of disgracefullyladen lightheartedness between now and November 8, Political Suicide is just the ticket. “Political Suicide” By Erin McHugh, 2016, Pegasus Books $26.95 / $34.95 Canada 258 pages May 19, 2016 25
FOOTPRINTS IN HISTORY By Jason Machulski History is written every day. This is a change from what I usually write about, but artists are an amazing part of history. There is art all around us. The architecture, city streets, signs--there’s art in everything, which eventually turns into history. A group of local artists is striving to make a change in how the community perceives art, and their efforts have grown. Not only do I have a passion for history and the arts and culture in the area but I am also one of the owners of SWLArt along with Brian Pitre and Danny Allain: two great people that have the same outlook on the Lake Area as I do. SWLArt stands for Southwest Louisiana Art Group. This diverse group of more than 40 artists is comprised of painters, potters, photographers, cartoonists, digital artists, musicians and more. The group was initially started by Danny Allain, whose murals can be seen around the Civic Center park and all over the Lake Area. His vision was the driving power that sparked SWLArt. Our goal is to not only promote art and the artist, but to create opportunities for
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artists to develop and thrive. Every day, I meet more artists of various skills. Their passion for learning and their motivation to reach new goals has also been motivational to me. This group is not bound by external constraints that determine what art is and who can call themselves an artist. This is more than a group, it’s a large growing family filled with talent and close bonds. We welcome all up and coming artists from youth to professional. We not only promote them, but we also create opportunities for them to develop and thrive through events, mentoring, and social networking. The group is constantly growing and has raised awareness that there are a lot more artists in our community than you can imagine. We don’t have a storefront, but we host downtown events, are at McNeese home games and we also have an art market once a month. Our passion for the local scene sets us apart. We place works in a suitable environment for the artist to be seen and also heard and gives artists a chance to branch out other than being confined to their studio. We’ve worked alongside some of the local businesses to
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make sure that the local shops and studios grow along with the art community. Not too long ago, we raised money for the Save the Clock Lake Charles fund, gathering under the clock selling our art not only for ourselves but to ensure that a historic icon would be able to remain downtown for future generations. In a community, art rests on the belief that everyone has the right to create it and to share the results. Shaping your own cultural identity and having it recognized by others is central to human dignity and growth. If people can’t represent themselves culturally, how can they do so in any other way, including politically? And yet, in every society, access to arts and culture is uneven. Those who identify with dominant cultures have no difficulty creating and promoting their values. Others, passively or actively denied cultural resources, platforms and legitimacy, remain on the margins. SWLArt engages with those issues through research, support for cultural arts and local awareness. We are willing and eager to work along with all the area groups, not only to learn from them but to also share the art movement with them. It’s just a way that everyone in the community can work together to shape the cultural identity of our hometown. This group is here to stay. Visit our Facebook page SWLArt and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Get involved with our local arts, culture and history today and start making a footprint in history. SWLArt Group is a collaboration of a variety of local groups & artists, to support the development and improvement of their quality of life & business as well as strengthen the over cultural growth of the community. For more information about SWLArt Group, artists, or events visit their official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/swlart. Also be sure to follow them on Instagram and Twitter @swlart.
Vol. 8 • No. 4
May 19, 2016 27
Thursday, May 19 Katie Whitney & Chip Radford 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Alfred Doucet 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Rapture 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC On the Dancefloor 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Karaoke Night Karoake starts @ 11 p.m. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Friday, May 20 Katie Whitney & Chip Radford 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Downtown at Sundown Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys 5:30-9:30 p.m. 1911 Historic City Hall, LC
Peter Frampton 8 p.m. @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www. ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 74528 May 19, 2016
3000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Box Office.
777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
Saturday, May 21
Velcro Pygmies 9:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Boomerang 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
Katie Whitney & Chip Radford 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Renn Loren 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, LC
Juz-B-Cuz 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, LC
On the Dancefloor 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
On the Dancefloor 9 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Skid Row with special guest Stryper
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
8 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Tickets available now at Ticketmaster.com and at Coushatta Box Office, where Advantage Club members receive a $10 discount.
Rapture 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Air Supply
DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Rapture 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush 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 Velcro Pygmies 9:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
8 p.m. @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www. ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 7453000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Box Office.
Rusty Metoyer 9:30 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Double Play DJ 10 p.m. @ Lucky Longhorn 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton
Jack Nelson 9 p.m. @ Lucky Longhorn 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton
DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort
Boomerang 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino
Double Play DJ 10 p.m. @ Lucky Longhorn 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton
Sunday, May 22 Chester & Jarius Daigle
JD’s Whiskey Brunch @ 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Reed Planchard 4 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059 LC 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 Vol. 8 • No. 4
Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Trivial Tuesdays Live Team Trivia
Monday, May 23 Stacy Bearden
7:30 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St.
5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
The Strangers 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Open Mic Night 9-midnight @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC
Tuesday, May 24 Kenneth Espree 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Clint Faulk 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
SIN Night Two for Tuesday on shots and beer 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Wednesday, May 25 Chester Daigle 5:30 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
My Most Memorable Day in the Business It can be amazing how the smallest things can often leave a huge impression on you sometimes, unlikely things, even. It might not even be a huge gesture. It could just be recognition for the work you’ve done, kind words from someone that you admire, or even a kiss on the cheek. In fact, for me, these were three of the very things that I got from one very unexpected person and they ended up being the most treasured things that I took away from my most memorable day in the entertainment business that I passed just a couple of years ago. But first, we rewind to 1975, where a Vol. 8 • No. 4
3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Kevin Lambert 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC Big Daddy 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
Thursday, May 26 Julie Williams 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
production of Jesus Christ Superstar first brought together British guitarist and singer-songwriter Graham Russell and Melbourne singer Russell Hitchcock who, with other local musicians Chrissie Hammond (who left to form Cheetah) and then Jeremy Paul (who would later join the Devinyls) began playing together around Melbourne with an act they called Air Supply. Since those humble days in the ‘70s, Air Supply has gone on to release 18 studio albums with multi-platinum, platinum and gold certifications amongst them, and have 8 U.S. Top 10 hits to their credit. Their 40plus years of music have been featured in major motion pictures and television and has afforded them the honor of being one of the first foreign acts to be invited to play in Cuba as recently as 2005. They are easily one of the most recognizable soft rock
Big Daddy 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Encore 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Louisiana Express 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Friday, May 27 Julie Williams 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort
acts to ever hit the charts and I was lucky enough to spend a day with them and their crew in the fall of 2013. And I Know the Night is Fading and I Know the Time’s Gonna Fly... The week prior to any concert is busy and often stressful. Good crews and team members can always make them better and I was lucky to be working with both on this particular show because we were going to get a pretty big bombshell dropped on us before we would ever get to ShowTime. That Friday, the day before the show, we were told of a pending corporate restructure that would affect our team dramatically to the point that we were certain that not all of us would be together on the other side. Needless to say, we were all a little preoccupied with the unfortunate news, May 19, 2016 29
Downtown at Sundown Cold Sweat/ Jazz in the Arts
Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
@ 5:30-9 p.m. 1911 Historic City Hall, LC
Fuse 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Reed Planchard 8 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059 LC
BB & Company 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton QRISIS 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live
which made it difficult to focus on our tasks. But Saturday morning arrived, as did the two big, beautiful motor coaches that bore this lot from coast to coast in the months leading up to this particular November morning. Upon arrival, it was the usual meeting with the tour manager (a great guy best known as Sparky), verifying hotel rooms, green room requirements and all that good stuff. Everything was in order so the local crew started moving the band’s gear into place to be set up for sound check. I didn’t actually see Graham and Russell until they finally came in. A lightning whitehaired and round Lennonesque sunglasses-bespectacled Russell and a tall, trim kilt-clad Graham took the stage and worked through the beginning of a few memorable tunes, adjusted some things in the mix and then retired back to the bus while the local crew finished up the lights and the band members dispersed. In the hour leading up to curtain as all the final checks were made, band members were lounging in the green room and Graham and Russell came back 30 May 19, 2016
Encore 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 Larry Tillery 9:30 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Saturday, May 28
in time to get dressed and step out for the meet and greet. After that, I finally got the chance to introduce myself and thank them for joining us. After some handshakes, mutual “thank yous” and photos, they headed backstage to finish getting ready. Before they left, I said with a laugh, “Give me a good one tonight, fellas. This may be my last show.” The lights went up, they took the stage and for 90 minutes, it was 1980 all over again for all the soft rock fans that turned out to see performers a bit longer in tooth but no less dynamic, talented and impressive as they had been at the height of their career. It was a fun, personal and involved performance from these artists that still visibly delight in putting on a show even after all these years. It was a testament to the personality and passion of these artists that I was even yet to fully see. That came after the show...
the bulk of my work was done. At this point, all that was left for me was to deliver the balance check to the tour manager and make sure that all their needs were met and their bus fully stocked before they loaded up and headed on to the next city. By the time I made it back to the green room, the guys had changed and were hanging out. I took the chance to thank them again and compliment them on the performance, and that was when Russell surprised me by asking, “Wait a minute. You said something about this being your last show. What did you mean by that? “My dismissive “Oh, it’s complicated...” spiel was not good enough for the tenor who urged me sit and tell him what was happening. He listened silently as I told him what little we knew and what the perceived fall out would be, etc. He finally broke his silence with as genuine and heartfelt a delivery as you can imagine of a very simple phrase: “Well, I just think that’s f****ed, brother!” I laughed for the first time in some 36 hours. It was the first moment that I had relaxed since getting the news, and
I Figured It Out, What I Needed Was Someone to Show Me... The house was empty and the noisy task of tear-down and load-out had begun. For me,
Julie Williams 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar
L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Mark Reeves and Twisted X 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, LC John Cessac 8 p.m. @ Lucky Longhorn 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton
Rodney Carrington 8:30 p.m. @ L’Auberge Event Center L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC Tickets start at $55 and may be purchased at the L’Auberge Box Office, ticketmaster.com or by calling (800)
mind you, he said this with no cheek. He carried on by commending what a good job that my team and I had done and how we were an example of what they wished every show day was like. When asked what was next for me, I mentioned that tour management always had an appeal but regardless, I wanted to stay in the industry and keep on putting on shows and to continue to work with talented and wonderful people such as himself. The conversation ended with encouragement to stay in touch, a hug and a kiss on the cheek with him telling me that whatever it is that I would do, he knew that I will do it well and that he looked forward to working with me again. An hour or so later, I saw them out to the bus and in a blur of tail lights, they were gone. With Russell’s words still fresh in my mind, I only then just began to realize what they would mean to me in time. As it were, it was my last show, certainly of anything of that scale until this very day, and as much as we may struggle with jobs and similar situations, it’s easy to get down on ourselves when things aren’t going our Vol. 8 • No. 4
745-3000.
112 W. Broad St., LC
Vince Neil of Mötley Crüe
BB & Company 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
with special guest Sledgehammer 8 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Tickets available now at Ticketmaster.com and at Coushatta Box Office, where Advantage Club members receive a $10 discount. Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s
way. Feelings of inadequacy can be easy to find and are often crippling to someone who’s trying to get back on track. I’m sure we’ve all felt something similar at one point or another. I’m glad I have that to look back on, to remind me that I’m not just talented or capable, but that even seasoned professionals not only recognized that in me, but also found it important
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar and Grill 710 Ryan St., LC
Fuse 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 Billy Carter 10 p.m. @ Lucky Longhorn 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton
Encore 9 p.m.– 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
enough to make sure I knew it. It was the most successful I’ve felt in my nearly four years doing that work. Another take-away for me from that night is that it also served to further reassure my faith in artists that are genuine and compassionate for those around them, even if it is someone that they may only see that one day. To those
Sunday, May 29
artists, fame doesn’t mean that you forget the things that are the best of humanity and the best of yourself. Many have and many others will, but some haven’t and I, for one, find it terribly exciting to find the artists that can give you reasons to be a fan for something beyond the songs. As a mid-thirties fella, I still get the occasional odd look
Chester & Jarius Daigle
JD’s Whiskey Brunch @ 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Mike Krajicek 4 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, LC
Tommy McLean with Louisiana Express
about my Air Supply T-shirt and I always laugh. I wear it proudly. I want people to know that I believe in artists like that and I was very, very lucky that for one small moment, an artist like THAT really believed in me. It means more than I can say and it is a moment I will take with me to my grave. Thank you, brother. It genuinely meant the world to me.
Something is Happening Here... So if my musings of soft rock days gone by was not any kind of clue, well…
Saturday, May 21: Air Supply- Golden Nugget Lake Charles The very voices behind the hits “Lost In Love,” “Makin Love Outta Nothing At All” and so many other great ‘80s hits are bringing it to the Golden Nugget stage on May 21. I don’t think I can give any more gushing an endorsement than what I stated above, but any fan would be blown away by the persistent quality these guys bring to the stage. I will most certainly be in the house and I look forward to seeing some friends get up there and just be fantastic. If the message is unclear, GO SEE THIS SHOW! Also...
Saturday, May 28 : Rodney Carrington - L’Auberge Casino Resort The funny man in the cowboy hat returns to the Lake City for one night only in the L’Auberge Ballroom on May 28. The Longview, Texas native took some time out to answer some questions for The Jambalaya News, so be sure to check out that interview in this very issue! Otherwise, drag out your Justin Ropers and shine up that sense of humor and GO SEE THIS SHOW!
And You Did More Than Mend a Broken Heart Cause Now You Made a Fire Start... A final thank you to Russell, Graham, Sparky and the whole crew for just being great and I’m really looking forward to seeing you guys and the wonder that is Air Supply again this weekend. I hope to see all of YOU there as well AND at the Rodney Carrington show on the 28th! Who said there’s nothing to do in Lake Charles? That’s MY town you’re talkin’ about now... Until the next issue in three weeks’ time... I’LL SEE YOU AT THE SHOW! Vol. 8 • No. 4
May 19, 2016 31
7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Chris Miller & Bayou Roots 6:30 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
Michael Krajicek 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Electric Circus 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Encore 9 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Superstar Wednesdays
Monday, May 30
Thursday, June 2
DJ Jose Mata 8 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Kay Miller & Aaron Horn 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Drink Specials 9 p.m.- 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Leroy Thomas 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Tuesday, May 31
Mickey Smith 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059 LC
Trivial Tuesdays Live Team Trivia 7:30 p.m. @ Luna Live, 710 Ryan St. DJ Jose Mata 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Angel Garcia 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Drag Show starts at 11:30 p.m. 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Electric Circus 8 p.m.- 1 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 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
Wednesday, June 1
Friday, June 3
Chester Daigle 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Downtown at Sundown City Heat
32 May 19, 2016
@ 5:30/9:0 p.m.
1911 Historic City Hall, LC Kay Miller & Aaron Horn 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Grand Funk Railroad 8 p.m. @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www. ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 7453000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Box Office. 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 Electric Circus 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush 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 Chinatown 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Kadillacs 9:30 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC Double Play DJ 10 p.m. @ Lucky Longhorn 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton
DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Saturday, June 4 Kay Miller & Aaron Horn 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Wayne Toups 8 p.m. @ Delta Event Center Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
Happy Together Tour 8 p.m. @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www. ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 7453000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Box Office. Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC Lives 9:30 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder 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 Electric Circus 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Double Play DJ 10 p.m. @ Lucky Longhorn 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton Vol. 8 • No. 4
Vol. 8 • No. 4
May 19, 2016 33
SOUTHLAND CONFERENCE SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT The McNeese Cowgirls hosted this year’s Southland Conference Softball Tournament. MSU supporters turned out to watch the Cowgirls sweep the tournament and easily earn their berth in the NCAA regional tournament set to start in Baton Rouge on May 20. The Cowgirls enter the tournament with a 42-12 record. Go Pokes!
Jon and Ann Miller
Tonja and Ric Fontenot
Frank Brocato and Karl Kohler
Chelsi and Finn Barfield
Cowgirls Assistant Coach Courtney Barbour and ‘83 Champions Alumn Karen Simpson
DOWNTOWN AT SUNDOWN For 18 years, the City of Lake Charles has gotten the summer season started off with the much-beloved Downtown at Sundown. Terrance Simien and The Zydeco Experience kicked off this year’s festivities as music fans aplenty filled the streets for a night of fun. Don’t forget to check out Steve Riley and The Mamou Playboys, Cold Sweat and City Heat for the next three Fridays!
Sarah, Sadie, Austin and Ronnie Six
Vicky Broussard and Samantha Lejeune 34 May 19, 2016
Byron, Melissa, Mia and Maggie Gaskin
Rebecca Richard, Shelby Landry, Brittany Haymes and Skyler Fontenot
Russell, Kipten and Rhemi Fontenot Vol. 8 • No. 4
DERBY FOR DOLLARS The Stables at Le Bocage turned into a Derby party fit for Churchill Downs on May 5 with Family and Youth Counseling’s “Derby for Dollars” event that featured legendary food, jumping demonstrations, cigar rolling and more mint juleps than you can shake a riding crop at. Proceeds went toward the Shannon Cox Counseling Center. That’s a superfecta if I have ever heard one!
David and Dawn Phillips
Cammie Shaddock, Robert Piper, Kathy Hanudel and Stephanie Henning
Sarahlee Nottingham and Andrea Matesick
Robbin Halker, and Jean and Shonna Hall
Katherine Cunningham, Lena Broussard, Tiffany Champagne and Mika Savoie
Logan Monroe, Mat Sensat, Chad Whited and Tarin Bowling
LCCB SPRING PERFORMANCE Lake Charles Civic Ballet hosted their Spring Performance on May 15. This performance featured the dancers of the Lady Leah Lafargue School of Dance who were joined by members of the Civic Ballet in a performance that featured ballet, jazz, tap and more! A big round of BRAVOs for all who worked so hard to make such a great performance happen!
Madeline Broussard with Tammie and Addie Lewis
Brenda Davis and Agnes Courville Vol. 8 • No. 4
Nancy Melton and Agnes Gandy
Jessica and Bella Rivero and Mark Henry
Ben, Kai and Richman Reinauer May 19, 2016 35