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Vol. 7 • No. 9
August 20, 2015 • Volume 7 • Issue 9
715 Kirby St. Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262
On cover: LAMC’s Healthy Woman 2015 Advisory Council • Photo compliments of Jason Carroll, owner of Monsour’s Photography • Location provided by Jack Hebert’s All Star Farm, Sulphur Healthy Woman Advisory Council Members not pictured are: Jamie Fuselier, Cheri Gaston, Jamika Moore, and Kay Morgan.
COVER STORY 24 LAMC’s Healthy Woman Fifth Anniversary
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www.thejambalayanews.com Publisher/Executive Editor Lauren Abate de Albuquerque lauren@thejambalayanews.com
Contributors Nicole Shuff Arabie George Cline Dan Ellender Scott Holtzman Jason Machulski Mike McHugh Roger Miller Justin Morris Russell Pawlowski Britney Blanchette Pitre Brian Pitre Jackie Pitre Terri Schlichenmeyer
Sales sales@thejambalayanews.com
REGULARS 6 We Are SWLA! 8
The Dang Yankee
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Adoption Corner
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Tips From Tip
10 Fishin’ Tales 12 A Ruff Life 14 Soul Matters 15 Tales of the Bayou Pickers
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16 Don’t Call Me Sugar
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17 The Pirate’s Platter FEATURES 5 The Truth Behind Dental Care Myths 18 What Does Your Toothbrush Say About You? 19 McNeese vs. LSU: Who to Root For?
Graphics Art/Production Director Burn Rourk
21 High School Football Roundup
Business Office Manager Jeanie Rourk
THE SPICE OF SWLA 28 Boudin Wars
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30 Event Guide 32 Family Fun Night at the Movies 33 Bookworm Sez… Legal Disclaimer The views expressed by The Jambalaya News columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Jambalaya News, its editors or staff. The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by Jambalaya Media, LLC, 715 Kirby Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone (337) 436-7800. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The Jambalaya News cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a self-addressed envelope. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Copyright 2014 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.
Vol. 7 • No. 9
34 Nightlife Guide 38 Justin Morris’s Lake Charles 41 Funbolaya
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42 Society Spice
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A Note From Lauren
Summer/School So, the poor kids are back to school in this sweltering heat, with one more month of summer to go. I can’t even comprehend it. As far as I am concerned, it’s still full summer, deep summer, in all of its glorious beauty. It’s a joy to get up in the morning. Well, okay, it’s never a joy to get up, but if I have to, it’s a lot more manageable when the sun is shining and birds are singing and cats are jumping. There’s nothing worse than getting up out of a nice warm bed and being thrust into the cold cruel world of winter and all that it entails. Summer feels like a vacation. Even if you don’t go anywhere, you can wear clothes that you would normally wear to a resort. Or on a cruise. Flip flops are usually involved. How can you be stressed if you’re wearing flip flops? For those of you who have to dress up for work (thankfully, I am not one of them), you know that you’re thinking about the end of the
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day when you can shuck the business attire and get comfortable. Don’t forget the flip flops. It’s a good thing we didn’t go to school in the summer when I was growing up, because those uniforms were hot. Not as hot as the nun’s habits, of course, but hey—they took vows. That was all part of their deal. Not ours. We didn’t buy that “you were put on this earth to suffer” story, as much as they insisted on it. Their faces would be red and sweating and shiny under those wimples, but they never complained and God Help You if you did. You’d get a Lecture about Christ Suffering on the Cross that everyone had to listen to. Back then, a wayward student was not pulled aside and given hell. No, he (or she, but it was mostly a he) was made to Stand Up and then attacked front and center by the good Sister, probably in hopes of deterring the rest of us from wrongful thinking. A lesson for one was a lesson for all. In grade school, the girls
wore plaid polyester jumpers with white blouses. You were allowed short-sleeve blouses in the warmer weather, but they were really ugly—they had wide sleeves that accentuated my skinny arms. I would have preferred to just roll up the long sleeves but NO. That was Not Allowed. I know, because I tried it once and was taken to task for it. I didn’t get the Christ Suffering on the Cross Lecture, but it came close. The boys had to wear sports jackets and ties and dress pants and good shoes, and they were not allowed to remove their jackets, as I recall, unless there was a good reason, like art class. Being hot was not a good reason. We did not have any air conditioning at St. Lazarus School, just ancient tall windows that had to be opened with long poles by tall students. Certain students (always boys) were recruited for this job and did it with pride, the same way certain students (always boys) were allowed to bring in the big boxes of Vincent’s Potato Chips to sell (a nickel a bag; made in Salem with a logo of a witch
on her broomstick) and penny candy, such as fireballs and licorice and other goodies. I loved those candy breaks, and I loved the fireballs, which we would hold in our hand and lick because they were too hot to put in our mouths when the red coating was still on the candy. Our hands and tongues would be red from the dye and it was kind of a mess, but it’s still a vivid memory all these years later—and the fireballs today are wimpy and much smaller in comparison. I wish the kids well as they start another school year and make those memories they will look back on--fondly I hope-in the years to come. And when you get home at the end of your day, put on your summer clothes and run outside and enjoy the rest of the summer. And don’t forget your flip-flops.
Lauren Abate de Albuquerque
Vol. 7 • No. 9
ROBINSON DENTAL GROUP FAMILY DENTISTRY
The Truth Behind Popular Dental Care Myths Let’s face it—we’ve all been guilty of reading about the latest oral hygiene myth trending on someone’s newsfeed. With many Americans facing anxiety when visiting the dentist, it’s no wonder we populate the Internet with these myths to alleviate concerns about our oral health. “If taken seriously, many of these myths can put your oral health in danger,” said Dr. Tim Robinson, a dentist at Robinson Dental Group Family Dentistry. “Instead of relying on the Internet for dental advice, it’s best to trust the experts.” Myth: I only need to see the dentist if there s a problem. It’s recommended that you visit the dentist every six months, and these visits aren’t just for cleanings. Many serious problems can be avoided if detected during routine visits. “At-home oral hygiene alone just doesn’t cut it,” Dr. Robinson said. “Don’t let a small is-
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sue become a costly problem later.” Myth: Bleaching weakens my teeth. Prior to 1990, the ingredients used to bleach teeth were acidic and actually broke down enamel. “Today, bleaching materials are pH neutral and much safer for your teeth,” Dr. Robinson said. To avoid tooth sensitivity, use whitening gels in moderation. Myth: Sugar is the main cause for tooth decay. Technically, sugar itself doesn’t cause tooth decay and cavities. “Acid is produced by bacteria in your mouth that depend on sugar to survive, and the acid damages your teeth,” Dr. Robinson said. Try brushing or rinsing your teeth after eating sugar-heavy foods to help limit bacteria from producing acid. Myth: Placing an aspirin next to a tooth will alleviate pain.
Aspirin is only effective in relieving pain when it enters the bloodstream, so placing an aspirin next to your hurting tooth is like putting an aspirin on your injured knee—it just doesn’t work. When aspirin makes direct contact with tooth enamel, it could cause an acid burn and make your toothache worse. Myth: If my gums are bleeding, I should stop brushing them. If your gums are bleeding, it actually means you’re not brushing them enough. “Your tongue and gums also benefit from gentle brushing, which removes plaque from the gum line,” Dr. Robinson said. If not removed regularly, plaque can cause gum inflammation and eventually gum diseases. To schedule an appointment, call Robinson Dental Group Family Dentistry at (337) 474-3636 in Lake Charles or (337) 429-5057 in Moss Bluff or visit www.robinsondentalgroup.com.
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Internal Medicine Physician Joins Memorial Medical Group Memorial Medical Group welcomes internal medicine physician Jason K. Langhofer, DO to the medical staff of Internal Medicine Clinic of Southwest Louisiana. Dr. Langhofer received his degree as a doctor of osteopathic medicine Dr. Jason Langhofer from University of North Texas before completing his internal medicine residency at LSU Health Science Center in Shreveport, where he served as chief resident. Dr. Langhofer is experienced in the treatment of such conditions as hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes. To schedule an appointment, call (337) 494-6800.
Caraway Earns Specialized Certification Erin Caraway, an occupational therapist with Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, has received a NeuroIntegrative Function Rehabilitation and Habilitation (Neuro-IFRAH) approach certification. NeuroIFRAH allows therapists to establish excellence in the treatment and management of adults with hemiplegia as a result of stroke or traumatic brain injury. Caraway has worked as an occupational therapist at Memorial since 2013.
Axiall Promotes Two Axiall Corporation has promoted Curtis Brescher to director of operations for its Lake Charles North and South plants. Jim Rock, who has served as works manager of the Lake Charles facilities since 2014, has been promoted to vice president of operations. Brescher joined Axiall in 2013 following 19 years at Honeywell and led the company’s Plaquemine plant. Rock, who has held a variety of senior-level operations roles during his 38 years with Axiall and its predecessor, will remain in Lake Charles. In his new role, he will be responsible for the execution of cost reductions and infrastructure process improvements across all chemicals division plant sites.
Erin Caraway
McDonald’s of SWLA Donates to Dancing Classrooms Dancing Classrooms recently received $1,000 in McCafe® coffee sales from McDonald’s of Southwest Louisiana. The donation was part of McCafe® Coffee for a Cause, a local program that donates a portion of McDonald’s coffee sales on Mondays to area nonprofit organizations. Dancing Classrooms is an arts education program that teaches ballroom dance to fifth grade students, and the program is provided by Whistle Stop, a nonprofit child advocacy organization. For more information about McDonald’s of SWLA, visit www.mcdswla.com.
Engineering Scholarship Established at McNeese Al Cochran, a 1965 engineering graduate of McNeese State University, has donated $20,000 to the university through the McNeese Foundation to establish the Alfred Cochran Civil Engineering Scholarship.
From left, McNeese President Dr. Philip Williams, Cochran, Patricia Prebula, president of the Foundation’s board and Dr. Nikos Kiritsis, dean of the college of engineering. McNeese Photo
SOWELA Scholarships
McDonald’s of SWLA owner and operator Doug Gehrig, Whistle Stop director Nancy Vallee and Dancing Classrooms participants Reginald Larkins of Sam Houston High School and Caitlyn Wilson of LaGrange High School 6 August 20, 2015
The State of Louisiana through the Board of Regents Support Fund has contributed $20,000 in matching funds to the Greater Lake Charles Rotary Club Endowed Scholarship with the SOWELA Technical Community College Foundation. The scholarship is awarded to low-income and first-generation students. The Vol. 7 • No. 9
Louisiana Board of Regents established the Endowed Scholarship program in 2007-2008 to support Louisiana’s college and university students. For information on supporting student success by establishing a scholarship with the SOWELA Foundation, visit www. sowela.edu/give.
Comeaux Named WCCH Employee of the Month West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital recently named Debbie Comeaux, RN, data abstractor in the quality management department, as its employee of the month for July 2015. Comeaux works diligently with physicians and staff to implement improvements that helps to provide exceptional healthcare and safety throughout WCCH. Comeaux is a resident of Lake Charles and has been with WCCH for four years.
Dr. Hinton Presents Medical Study Results at National Conferences Lake Charles Orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Alan Hinton recently completed a yearlong medical study focusing on improving visualization in arthroscopic knee surgery. The results of the study were peer reviewed and accepted for presentation at the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine annual meeting, as well as the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA) conference. The results of the study are currently being submitted Dr. Alan Hinton for publication. Dr. Hinton, a graduate of McNeese State University and LSU School of Medicine, specializes in orthopaedic care and sports medicine and has practiced in the Lake Charles area for over 20 years.
CITGO Awards Scholarship to LC Student Debbie Comeaux, RN
Black Alumni Chapter Makes Donation The McNeese State University Foundation has received a $60,000 donation from the McNeese Black Alumni Chapter to provide endowed scholarships to minority students from the area. The chapter received the funds from 14th Judicial District Court Judge Sharon Wilson as part of the Georgia Gulf Lake Charles LLC, et. al., Settlement Fund.
CITGO Petroleum Corporation recently awarded scholarships to six high school graduates who are dependent children of company employees or retirees, including one child of a Lake Charles Refinery employee. The student was honored at the CITGO Scholarship Banquet recently at the Pioneer Club in Lake Charles. Since 1987, CITGO has been active in helping qualified dependent children of its employees and retirees reach their collegiate goals, through offering college and university scholarships. Since then, CITGO has awarded more than 270 scholarships, totaling more than $2.5 million. The student selected as a 2015 CITGO scholarship recipient was Phillip D. Comeaux, Lake Charles, son of William (Bill) Comeaux, CITGO Senior Analyst, Logistics.
From left, Carmen Williams, BAC member, Wilson, Isaiah Brumfield, McNeese scholarship recipient, Joanna Nixon-Gatlin, chapter scholarship chairman, and Betty Sims, BAC president. McNeese Photo
Graham Named LHA Chair
Larry M. Graham, FACHE Vol. 7 • No. 9
Larry M. Graham, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Lake Charles Memorial Health System was elected as the Louisiana Hospital Association Board of Trustees Chair for 2015-2016. With over 35 years of experience in healthcare administration, Graham has been president and CEO of Lake Charles Memorial Health System since Dec. 1, 2006. Since Graham the, he has spearheaded improvements in the hospital’s quality, infrastructure, financial position, service excellence program and staffing.
David Vogel, CITGO Manager Business Planning and Optimization, Jerry Dunn, CITGO General Manager Engineering and Technical Services and Phillip Comeaux, CITGO Scholarship recipient at the 2015 CITGO Scholarship Banquet.
New Customer Service Rep at Knight Media Knight Media Printing is proud to announce the addition of Brittany Jackson as their new outside customer service representative. Jackson will be interacting directly with customers at all stages of the business relationship to ensure that our customers receive the highest level of service. Before joining Knight Media Printing, Jackson served as executive director of The Museum of Contemporary Art in Hot Springs, AR and has several years of customer service experience.
Brittany Jackson August 20, 2015 7
The Garden of Quirky Delights I’ve always loved raising vegetables. That’s why, when I bought my first house, I got one with the biggest yard I could find. That was in Yankee Land, meaning that the yard had plenty of space for a single, containerized tomato plant. When I moved to Louisiana, I was all gung-ho about the prospects of a big vegetable garden. What with the extended growing season and ample rain, I figured that stuff would grow like gangbusters. And I was right. The plants in my garden did extremely well—all but the ones that produce vegetables. Compared to the local flora, vegetables are the 98-pound weaklings of the plant kingdom. The endemic giant hogweeds, which I swear I can hear taunting me whenever I start up the tiller, sit around just waiting for some namby-pamby radish to poke its first leaves out from the soil, and then, WHAM! They become like IRS agents on a
delinquent taxpayer. After several years of miserable failure trying to raise vegetables here in Louisiana, I was ready to throw in the towel. I was telling this to a friend when she asked me, “Have you thought about growing okra?” “About as much as I’ve thought about growing poison ivy,” I replied. Okra may technically be a vegetable in the same way that Donald Trump is technically a Presidential candidate. The fact is, no one in Yankee Land eats okra. Even my old roommate, Jim, didn’t eat okra, and he was such a veggie fanatic that he even enjoyed Brussels sprouts—a vegetable that I’d believed God created solely for parents to serve to their children as a form of punishment. As a Yankee, the only exposure I’d ever had to the word “okra” was as an answer to the crossword puzzle clue, “gumbo veggie.” Then I discovered that
most people around here don’t even use okra in gumbo. Thus, I was faced with the unenviable choice of planting okra or giving up vegetable gardening altogether. So I tried it, all the while imagining the hogweed snorting “harrumph” as I set the seedlings into the ground. The results astounded me. In no time, I had okra plants shooting up to the sky. They were looking to reach Fee-FiFo-Fum Land without breaking a sweat. I swore I saw the hogweed cowering out in the drainage ditch. Then came the bounty. The okra pods came so fast and furious that I had to set a lawn chair in the garden, my wife and I trading round-the-clock shifts to keep up with the harvest. Okra pods were growing faster than Congress could spend money. The only problem was what to do with all of it. I had to figure out something fast, before
our mound of okra got declared the highest point in the state. Desperate, I searched the Internet for an emergency recipe. I found one that involved stewing the okra with tomatoes, onion, and bacon. Since three out of the four ingredients sounded okay, I tried it. It was surprisingly tasty. Adding three times the amount of bacon than the recipe called for might have had something to do with it. So now, we’re having stewed okra and tomatoes every night. I’m slowly working down my stockpile of okra pods, but the bad news is that I might have to sell the pickup truck to pay off my bill at the meat market. I wonder if the neighbors wouldn’t object terribly if I started a hog farm as my next agricultural endeavor. Mike McHugh’s column has appeared in “The Jambalaya News” since 2009. You can read more from the Dang Yankee on his website, thedangyankee.com.
Meet our Little Bud, a three-year-old Dachshund mix. This gentle boy weighs about 14 pounds, is a snuggler at night, and is the most loyal boy you could ever hope to find. Because he has never been around children, his choice would be a quiet, settled home. He would make a great apartment dog as long as his person is committed to walking him every day. He would be a terrific fellow for a single or a senior. He is a low maintenance guy and is looking for someone to appreciate his sweet personality. He is current on all shots and is heartworm free. For more information, call or email: (337) 478-7294; lapaw@bellsouth.net. Home visit and vet checks are required prior to all adoptions. Hurry, Little Bud is waiting! 8 August 20, 2015
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Faith Restored Sometimes, things happen that restore your faith in your fellow man. Recently, I stopped at a favorite store and unbeknownst to me, my phone fell from the front seat and landed on the ground as I exited my vehicle. I had no knowledge of my loss. I was fat, dumb and happy as I made my rounds through the aisles. As I was leaving the store, a gentleman and his lady companion approached, talking on the phone. I heard him say, “I have found him.” I was the object of their search; the phone conversation I overheard was being held with my granddaughter, whom he had called from my phone list. He had tried my home phone, my daughter’s phone and then my granddaughter’s in his effort to locate the owner of the phone. My granddaughter gave him my description and Vol. 7 • No. 9
they were able to identify me with ease. They were in a bit of a hurry, as was I in my befuddlement. I did not get the kind persons’ names and I feel guilty for not offering them some reward, but they acted as if they were just happy to be of service and on their way. I take this opportunity to again thank the kind souls that were so nice to take the time to assist someone who did not know that he needed help. There are good, kind people in the world and I had the great pleasure of encountering a pair of them the other day. May God bless them mightily.
a defunct parking garage; on 210, we have a view of a heavily eroded, seemingly abandoned beach. These sandy beaches were not natural sand areas, but were man-made and created to be used and appreciated. The construction of the Cove Lane Roundabout is a long-awaited addition but the remains of the yearand-a-half-long shutdown is shameful. The eroded beach (along with the storm-damaged boardwalk at Prien Lake Park) needs to be taken care of forthwith, not in additional months of procrastination. The Southwest Louisiana Fishing Club had to hold their rodeo without the launch and the Calcasieu Boat Club’s Poker Run will be held without the use of the launch as well. We have lost two summers’ worth of activities so now is the time to get these assets back in operation, and make both eastbound entrances to Lake Charles look like we have more to offer than abandoned recreational opportunities.
Supermarket Roundup As we approach Labor Day, a holiday noted for picnicking and barbeques,
potato salad is a must on your menus. For our shopping survey, we priced some of the necessary ingredients. This survey was done on Friday, August 14, and the prices were posted on the shelf where the item was placed for sale. Supermarkets visited were Albertsons-Country Club Road, Market Basket-Nelson Road, Kroger-McNeese Street and Walmart-Nelson Road. Red potatoes, per pound: Albertsons $1.29, Market Basket $.99, Kroger $1.19, Walmart $.98. Celery, per head: Albertsons $1.79, Market Basket $1.59, Kroger $1.59, Walmart $1.58. Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise, 30-ounce jar: Albertsons $5.29, Market Basket $3.99, Kroger $3.98, Walmart $3.98. French’s Classic Yellow Mustard, 14 ounce bottle: Albertsons $2.29, Market Basket $1.99, Kroger $1.59, Walmart $1.56. Eggs, Grade A or better, per dozen, house brand: Albertsons $2.39, Market Basket $3.42, Kroger $2.72, Walmart $3.37.
Unsightly Views There are views of our two beach areas as you come into Lake Charles from the west on either the I-10 or the 210 bridge. These areas should be focal points, warm invitations to and from our community, sights that make you feel welcome. Let’s see: On the I-10 entrance, we are greeted by August 20, 2015 9
The Dreams of Our Youth When I started fishing, I was five. Now at 66, that gives me 61 delightful years
on canals, farm ponds, creeks, bayous, lakes, rivers, the Gulf of Mexico, and even
Charles and Aiden Crady 10 August 20, 2015
the Pacific. My adventures began in Jennings’s then “Mayberry World.” I’d hop on my Schwinn bicycle and peddle, cane poles on the handle bars, playing cards clicking in my spokes, garden dug worms in a box tied to the seat. Meeting the rest of “Our Gang” at the big-tous rice canal, we’d perch jerk. We had no gang tats, colors, or guns except for Daisy BB guns that rarely killed anything. Hell, we even had BB gun wars wearing swimming goggles. Sting yes, injure no. What we had was a fun time out of sight of parents or prying neighbors. When they decided to drain the canal, the water got so low that “Our Gang” got the brilliant idea of seining the pools where the fish were trapped. We got hold of Dad’s short seine and with rice gunnysacks in hand, we began our harvest. We were Peter in our own Canal of Galilee. Every pool filled our sacks with brim, white perch, and bass. At the canal’s end on the Mermentau River, we hauled in the net and wrapped it around the poles and proceeded to haul our “Yes sir, yes sir, four bags full” catch up the levee. Standing atop was an adult
who welcomed us. Sorta, if pointing a pistol at kids and demanding our sacks of fish is a welcome. Scared and cowed, we hauled our catch up over the levee and turned over our four sacks full. We ran to where my usual babysitter lived and her parents called the law. One of “Our Gang” just happened to be one of Sheriff Delony’s sons. The sheriff, to put it mildly, was a wee bit “fache” (pissed off ) with someone pointing a gun at his son and pals and then stealing their fish. This may not be a capital crime but it sure got a capital response. The man was quickly arrested. We got our fish back. And a tale of a lifetime to tell. Fishing with my Dad was always a treat—rare, but always a learning experience. One time when I was 14, I was with him and his partner Dr. Lester Ancelet. It was then I learned how to tie a fisherman’s knot to a lure. Gazing at them in amazement, they would tie on lures and just jabber away, not watching what they were doing. One two, three, four, five swipes around the line and then form a loop and pull the end of the line Vol. 7 • No. 9
Roger fishing with Earl and company back though, finally sliding it down to the lure. Being a surgeon pays off if you are also an angler. Lots of practice on humans and lures and truly amazing to watch if you aren’t one. Soon after that, it was over the tallest mountain in New Mexico to the massive Federal Reserve. Ah, to be 15 again, standing in the open on the bank of a trout stream with a fly round. With no trees to catch my fly line and trout that were willing to hit so hard they hooked themselves, I was in adolescent heaven in the cool mosquito less summer. I was no Frank Conrad, whom I’ve written about, but I was Brad Pitt in A River Runs Through It or Ernest Hemingway’s Nick Adams in A Big Two Hearted River. The keeper catcher master I truly enjoyed fishing with was the late Earl Barger. Often, when I wandered down to Jim Bel’s Hunting & Fishing Lodge, he’d already be there, fishing the big flumes canal pictured on “Barger’s Pavilion,” the wharf named after him, The man was a fish-catching master, whose Vol. 7 • No. 9
yelp, laughter and delight after each fish was truly special. He was12 years old again and living the dreams of his youth and reigniting mine. His enthusiasm was catching, pardon the pun, if you were one of the blessed to be there. I have been blessed to fish with some of the best local anglers; Captain Sammie Faulk to Terry Shaughnessy of “You Should Have Been Here Yesterday“ KPLC-TV fame, to the Stansel brothers at The Hackberry Rod & Gun Club. I look forward to fishing with the new fishing masters and then writing about it. Yet, as Mark Twain said, “Ah, the dreams of our youth, how beautiful they were and how quickly they perish.” Not for me all the dreams of my youth. They live anew every time I cast a bait, hook and land a fish. For me, it’s “Ah, the dreams of my youth, how beautiful some still are and how quickly they resurrect angling.” Those dreams live again, and are one of those things that “passeth all understanding.” August 20, 2015 11
Keeping Your Dog Fit Summer is coming to an end, and just around the corner are the holidays! Unfortunately, if you are anything like me, the holiday season also means you spend more time indoors, and tend to be less active. On top of being less active, we tend to eat just a little bit more comfort and holiday food than any other time of the year. And, let’s not forget about all that “leftover” Halloween candy. When we are less active, our dogs are less active, as well. Maybe they even get a little indulgence of some leftover holiday food. There are some simple things we can do to help ourselves and our dogs stay in shape at all times, but especially since we are entering that time of year again! Your dogs’ nutrition plays a key role in their overall well-being. Health and wellness are, obviously, affected by the food you feed your dog, but did you know that his behavior is affected, as well? The brain is an organ that runs on the nutrition we provide it. Be sure the brain fuel you feed your dog is the premium 12 August 20, 2015
fuel for a well-rounded furry friend. It’s important to check your dog’s food ingredients. Be sure to feed him a balanced, premium, and an ideally all-natural diet. An all-natural diet means that the food will not contain any artificial ingredients or fillers. Artificial flavorings, colors/dyes, and some preservatives have been linked to diseases, and even cancer. Fillers like corn and by-products serve little to no nutrition to your dog. When we eat corn, it comes out the same way it went in! It is no different with your dog’s food. Also, high fructose corn syrup has the same effect on dogs as it does children! Lastly, throw away the dog’s bowl and feed him out of a fun interactive toy. Dogs love to work for food, so why not help them expend some mental and physical energy while they’re eating? Every dog, depending on age, sex, weight, breed and activity level, will need different nutritional requirements,
so be sure to choose a premium allnatural brand of dog food by speaking to your veterinarian, and signing up for The Whole Dog Journal’s Annual Approved Dog Food List (www.wholedog-journal.com). The BEST way to exercise your dog is to walk him every day (weather permitting) for an average of 15 minutes per day. Walking provides physical AND mental stimulation. Dogs that are physically and mentally stimulated are tired, and tired dogs are happy dogs! So, always speak to his veterinarian before changing his activity level. Be sure to use proper equipment to keep you, your dog, and others safe. Stay away from retractable leashes. These can easily break, cause severe cuts and burns on extremities, and teach your dog to pull you while on a leash. Choke and pinch/prong collars can easily cause damage to your dog’s trachea, puncture his neck, and/ or cause aggression and/or anxiety. I recommend a standard 6’ nylon, or leather leash, with a standard buckle collar or body harness, depending on breed. Gentle Leaders and Easy Walk Harnesses are excellent tools for those with large dogs, as well. Teach your dog basic cues (commands) using force-free methods. Once he’s mastered many basic cues independently, start asking for several cues in a row, and only reward once he’s
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Britney (Blanchette) Pitre, CPDT-KA BONS CHIENS Dog Training, LLC. 337.422.4703 • www.bonschiens.com Facebook.com/BonsChiensDogTraining Vol. 7 • No. 9
completed the entire series of cues. For instance, you can teach your dog “puppy push ups” by asking him to sit, then lie down, and then sit once more. Upon the last sit, reward him with a treat or toy. Repeat this several times, and then gradually add in more cues to increase the difficulty and intensity. Only start this exercise when you are confident that he understands what you are asking. If he keeps failing, this means you are moving too fast, working for too long, and/or being unclear. Tricks like stand (rear seated on the ground, while holding body and front paws up), shake, high five, and take a bow are really cute, but did you know that they are also excellent ways to fine-tune your dog’s mind and body? Dogs are highly intelligent animals, so don’t just stop at the basics. Keep teaching him more and more skills/ cues, and keep “proofing” or finetuning them as you go. Each time they learn a new skill/cue, their problem solving skills are sharpened and it strengthens their mental health. Tricks also engage many muscles—especially their core! Think of how much energy
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and balance it takes for a dog to remain seated and hold its whole body in an upright position! Phew! That made me sweat just thinking of it! As always, work at your dog’s pace. This is NOT a contest. It should be FUN and POSITIVE for you and your dog. If he is performing poorly, or you are getting frustrated, ask him for a simple cue like “sit” and then end your training session for a while. Look for lip licking, tongue flicks, yawning, and self-grooming when working with your dog—this is your dog’s way of telling
you he is confused and would like for you to be more clear. Remember that with dogs, your body language speaks louder than your words. Also, depending on age, sex, energy level, weight, breed, injuries, and other variables, some dogs may not be able to participate in all exercises and suggestions listed above. Consulting with his veterinarian about your changes in his routine and diet is highly suggested. Don’t let the holidays expand you and your dog’s waists this year! Change up your routine every few days to help with brain and muscle memory. Stop your walks at times, and ask for a few cues, and reward with a treat or a game of tug (playing tug helps his spine stretch while strengthening muscles). BE PATIENT! HAVE FUN! Until next time, happy training!! #TrainWithoutPain
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Looking Through Your Lens Imagine your eyes as a camera. When you look through the lens of your camera, you are making choices with each image of what you include and what you leave out, crop out and hide. You decide what to show everyone, what you want to be clear and what you want to appear a bit out of focus. When our awareness is heightened, we become more conscious of the choices we make and what they invite us to look at in our own lives. When you are looking at a photo, you are looking at a story about a moment in time. What is within the frame of the photo shapes the story. Each of us lives out a story as well. Sometimes the story we tell about ourselves needs
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to change, and I call that a retake. Are there stories you tell about yourself and who you are that might need to change? What have you been leaving out of the picture? What do the eyes of your heart reveal to you? What are you taking snapshots of about your life? Sometimes we are being called deeper to listen to our lives. To discern and seek to understand how God is present and calling us, through prayer, church, our choices and through the flow of each day. This is all happening so we can increase our faithfulness. If you refocus through your eyes-camera, you will be able to see each moment and what is being offered to you in that moment. We begin noticing what I like to call a glimmer or a bit of light shining that is God calling us to see differently. When this happens, we must remember to welcome both the beautiful and the ugly, so that we make sure to include all of this wisdom we are being given. God is calling to us and inviting us into those silent spaces that we most often ignore. “Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were
kept from recognizing him.” On the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-16) Even the disciples’ eyes were prevented from recognizing Him. Discernment is about developing clarity of vision, which is where the connection becomes beautiful to our eyes—and our eyes are a camera to the world and our stories. Practicing discernment is teaching me when to say yes and when to say no to who and what I am allowing into my picture. Most of us have forgotten how to say no. All of those invitations and demands that come our way every day sucks the energy right out of us, leaving most of us with little or no energy for the things that bring us truly alive. Instead, at the end of the day (which is a gift from God), we have invested most of it into mostly non-satisfying activities. When you’re capturing a moment through your lens, you don’t feel the need to rush. In fact, you actually find yourself wanting to stop and take it all in. The point? Life is crazy and unpredictable, no matter what path you choose, and your time on this planet is finite. Don’t waste days, hours, minutes, even seconds, simply existing; life is too short to live it as a copy of everyone else’s. Take the time, even if it’s just a few hours a week, to do something solely for yourself, simply because you want to, not because you have to. Get in your car, turn up the stereo and just drive. Go out to lunch with a friend, watch a funny movie just for the benefit of the laugh, or get on your bike and go for a ride. It won’t always be convenient and yes, you will have to make up the time in the end. That being said, allowing yourself to live gives you a greater chance of being happy and ultimately, to grow as a person, a photographer and an artist. The return you will get for those all-too-brief periods of time will pay off in the end. Enjoy and “Stop, Smile and Capture Life Through Your Lens.” With all my love, Nicole To book a Soul Matters Session with Nicole Shuff Arabie, call (337) 5406573. You can also go to her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DeclutteringYourSoul Vol. 7 • No. 9
As a picker and a treasure seeker, I like to go to places that have been abandoned or untouched for years. One of my favorite places to dig around in is the attic. It’s a great place to find old relics, treasures and historical memories. Take my grandmother’s attic, for example. There are many boxes filled with items that she either did not have room for or thought were too valuable to throw away. Digging through boxes, especially family boxes, brings back the past and reveals what was important to someone years ago. The treasures that you discover are always unpredictable. You could find an old bat from when you were a kid, a stack of old photographs, or better yet,
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maybe a stack of gold coins. You may laugh about the coins, but there have been plenty found in attics--some worth over $1 million. This just goes to show that you never know what you will find. Childhood treasures bring back lost memories, which to me are an amazing find right there. I recently opened a box in my parents’ attic that contained a lot of my old toys. Not only did it bring back a wealth of memories, I also learned that they are worth a good bit of money now. They included GI Joes, Star Wars figures, Go Bots, and transformers, all from the late 70s to late ‘90s. I will
definitely be back up there again. I also mentioned that I like to search abandoned areas. Remember, you must have permission to search these sites before you enter. There are many ghost towns that are now abandoned throughout the United States. A quick Google search will turn up plenty of results. Metal detectors are a great way to search old home sites since a lot of dirt and debris can build up over the years. I have uncovered jewelry, coins, war memorabilia and probably my body weight in aluminum soda pull-tabs. Metal detecting can be fun for the entire family. I like to bring the kids to the beach and search for treasure there. Gold from sunken pirate ships is actually still found today on the
beaches of Florida. You really never know what you will find on our nation’s coast. The most fun I have is the research I do before the hunt and then documenting my discoveries. Keep a journal of your locations and what was found. Make sure to share your adventures with friends and family, because sharing is preserving. I can remember the look on my son’s face when we found our first coins in the woods together. His eyes lit up and I do believe that right then and there he was hooked. It’s the little things like this that make it all worthwhile. Everything listed above can be done locally, or you can take a weekend trip that may lead to uncovering one of America’s hidden treasures.
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Battling Dehydration I’ve been battling dehydration a lot this summer, and one of my main concerns is keeping the sugar content of my drinks very low. True, water is the best source of hydration but my sweet teeth need to be satisfied as well as hydrated. I purchase Gatorade and Power Ade low-calorie quencher drinks, but they still have a high sugar content. The most important function for consuming these drinks is replenishing the electrolytes that you lose through perspiration. To retain the properties that these drinks
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offer and reduce the amount of sugar in each serving, I add water in equal amounts to the drink. My sweet teeth complain a little because anything watered down is less appealing, but my overall health program continues to succeed for me. Sipping water, or the water and thirst quencher mix throughout the day, even when not thirsty, has been the largest deterrent to dehydration. Remember, too, the role that fresh fruit plays in hydration. I read somewhere that the water from fruit tides muscles over
during exertion because of their nutritive properties. My sweet teeth are in agreement whether the theory is true or not. It’s the time of year when it’s extremely hot and many athletes are preparing for this school year’s activities. Please be responsible for your own bodies and take every precaution to be well. For all athletes who experience Type I or Juvenile Diabetes, I applaud you for participating in and enjoying the sporting life. You lend new meaning to the phrase, “Geaux Sugar!”
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Cajun Red Head
Crab Cakes! It’s extremely hot this summer in SWLA, so the Pirate is headed up to the Northeast, Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, to be specific. This is an area of the United States where blue crabs can be found, which are also popular along the New England coast. You will find versions of crab cakes in the Mid-Atlantic states, the Gulf Coast, the Pacific Northwest, and the Northern California coast, where the crabbing industry thrives. While meat from any species of crab may be used, the blue crab, whose native habitat includes the Chesapeake Bay, is the traditional choice and generally considered to be the best tasting. In the Pacific Northwest and Northern California, the endemic Dungeness crab is a popular ingredient for crab cakes.
Ingredients 1 lb. crabmeat (we like to use blue fin) ¾ cup saltine crackers 1 large egg 2 tablespoons minced onions 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon Louisiana Hot Sauce 1 teaspoon Cajun Red Head or similar
Preparation
In a large bowl, beat the egg lightly with a fork, then add all the remaining ingredients except the crabmeat and mix to combine. Add the crabmeat to the mixture and gently toss. Heat olive oil in a frying pan. Make crab cakes by pressing handfuls of the mix into thick patties (about ¼ to ⅓ cup of mixture per cake). Lightly brown each cake (about two minutes per side) in the pan. Place crab cakes on serving dish and enjoy! Vol. 7 • No. 9
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OAK PARK DENTAL FAMILY DENTISTRY & SPECIALTY PRACTICE
Is your teeth’s best friend trying to send you a message? If it is, you’d be wise to listen. “The condition of your toothbrush can provide useful feedback about your teeth, gums and overall dental health,” said Dr. Harry Castle with Oak Park Dental. “Even though we’ve all been brushing for years, many of us are surprised to learn that we’re not doing it properly.” These four “messages” are the best and easiest ways to remember how to care for your mouth, teeth and gums: 1. If your toothbrush’s bristles are spread out, worn-looking or missing, it’s trying to tell you, “HEL-LO?!? REPLACE ME!” “An old toothbrush is not only ineffective at cleaning your teeth, it has the potential to harbor bacteria,” said Dr. Castle. “This puts you at an increased risk for infections, which is particularly important with children, older adults and those with compromised immune systems.” What should you do?
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• The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles appear worn or splayed. (Try writing the first date of use on your brush with a permanent marker, to remind yourself just how old it is.) • Replace your toothbrush immediately after you catch a cold or the flu, to avoid re-infection. Likewise, if it starts to smell, ditch it for a new one. • Do not share toothbrushes. (Sharing your toothbrush is a good way to share that cold or the flu.) • After each use, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly to remove toothpaste and debris. Allow it to air-dry, and store it in an upright position. (If multiple brushes are stored in the same holder, do not allow them to contact each other.) • Routinely store your toothbrush in the open air in an upright position. (The humid environment of a closed container is more conducive to bacterial growth than the open air.)
2. If your toothbrush looks brand new after a few weeks, it’s trying to tell you: “USE ME!” “You may not be brushing long enough – or often enough,” said Dr. Castle. “Brush at least twice a day for at least two minutes, especially first thing in the morning and before bedtime.” Conversely, if your toothbrush gets worn out after just a few weeks, it’s telling you, “Brush up on your brushing!” “This could be a sign that you’re brushing your teeth incorrectly,” said Dr. Castle. “Overzealous, aggressive brushing can damage teeth and gums.” What should you do? Use the proper brushing technique, which according to the ADA is to: • Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. • Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes. • Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh. • Brush the outer surfaces, the inner
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surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth. To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes. “If you’re still unsure, have your dentist or hygienist show you the right way to brush your teeth,” said Dr. Castle. 3. If your toothbrush is strangely colored after you brush, it’s trying to tell you: “MAYBE THAT SODA WASN’T AS HARMLESS AS YOU THOUGHT!” “Residue can linger on your teeth in the form of sugar, acids – and as that strange color on your toothbrush,” said Dr. Castle. What should you do? • Cut back on the candy and soft drinks. (Snacks that won’t harm teeth include vegetables, cheese, nuts and seeds, and water is good for your entire body.) • When eating a sugary treat, save it for after a meal, when your mouth has plenty of saliva to help wash away the sugars and acids. • Chase a dose of sugar with a glass of water. • Be vigilant about brushing and flossing. (If colorful residue is on your brush, imagine what was on your teeth!) 4. If your toothbrush has blood on it, it’s trying to tell you: “YOU MIGHT HAVE GINGIVITIS!” “The warning signs of gingivitis – or gum inflammation – are puffy gums, traces of blood on your toothbrush, or a change in the color of your gums,” said Dr. Castle, who explained that the symptoms often come without pain. “Untreated gingivitis can worsen and lead to tooth loss,” he said. The good news? Gingivitis is completely reversible. What should you do? • Brush your teeth twice daily. • Floss daily. • Avoid excess sugar, and eat a balanced diet. (The proper nutrients that come from healthy eating and proper oral hygiene help fight gingivitis.) • If you smoke, quit. (Smoking is a major contributor to gingivitis.) • See your dentist for regular checkups and cleaning. “With modern advancements at our disposal, such as sedation dentistry and dental implants, there are more reasons to schedule a visit,” said Dr. Castle. “And now, with options such special financing and our Dental Care Plan for those without insurance, there are fewer financial obstacles to good dental health.” For more information or to schedule an appointment at Oak Park Dental with dentists Dr. Castle, Dr. Harry McGee, or Dr. Kyle Ferro, or with orthodontist Dr. Robert Lamb, call (337) 478-3232. Vol. 7 • No. 9
By Scott Holtzman When LSU plays McNeese this fall, I’m faced with a dilemma. Who shall I root for? It’s a rather uncomfortable position I find myself in, as I love both teams. I watch the LSU games because they’re on TV, but I’m no less a fan of McNeese. In all honesty, I want to see LSU win, not because I want McNeese to lose, but rather, if LSU loses, they probably stand no chance of making it to the college football playoffs at the end of the season. And for those of you who say McNeese has no chance of winning, you need only look back to the Appalachian State victory over Michigan a few years ago, or any other number of FCS victories over much larger and more recognized FBS opponents. And added to the mix is it’s the first game of the season, which is when the upsets generally happen. Then there’s the fact that McNeese is not only no stranger to playing up in competition, they’ve beaten FBS opponents, Middle Tennessee and South Florida, and gave Nebraska quite the scare last year.
McNeese has had this game circled since the schedule came out, and will be extremely up for the game. LSU, on the other hand, will be looking to get through the game, hopefully without injuries, and be able to play lots of backups in the second half. So for me, and probably lots of others in this part of the country, I’d like to see McNeese be competitive and take the game into the fourth quarter. In 2010, McNeese was in the game with LSU, and was only down 22-10 going into the fourth quarter. They eventually lost to the Tigers by a final score of 32-10--a very respectable score, by all accounts. The game is being televised on the SEC Sports Network alternative channel, which is channel 68 in Sulphur at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 5, so those of us not going to the game will get a chance to see it. So here’s to rooting for both the Tigers and the Pokes! Be sure to listen to “All Things Football” on KEZM 1310 AM radio from 5-6 p.m. on Monday evenings. The first show will air August 31. We’ll discuss this game and more! August 20, 2015 19
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HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL ROUNDUP BY BRIAN PITRE
SULPHUR HIGH As the Tors open up 2015, they enter their third year under head coach Jeff Wainwright, who looks to make his third time the charm. After a 6-4 season record and a chance at the 5A playoffs, starting quarterback Byron Walker returns with a taste of reaching the dome and a hunger for more post-season action. Running behind a young moldable offensive line, Walker has the platform to put up big numbers this season. Facing a big 5A schedule and some tough away games, the team is working overtime to build the cohesiveness they will need to perform under these high stakes. Coach Wainwright has also begun developing a multitude of plays to add to his quick-fire offense and is moving things around a bit on defense, changes the Tors hope will put rings on their fingers.
Photo: Jesuit NOLA Archives Vol. 7 • No. 9
Photo: Southwest Daily News August 20, 2015 21
Photo: NOLA.com
LaGRANGE HIGH As the LaGrange Gators prepare to bite into the 2015 season, the staff has already begun to predict a championship. Going into his eighth year with the team, Head Coach Jules Sullen has high expectations for the fall, calling this year’s squad one of the smartest and most impressive groups of young men he has had the privilege to coach. Making the 4A playoffs four consecutive years in a row, and winning three out of four post-season games leaves some pretty big shoes to fill for these upcoming seniors--shoes these players are all hungry to jump into. Armed with a wealth of talent including Tulane commit, safety Alvinoski Lafleur, and star running back Markell Hawthorne, the Gators are striving to make this year a historical one. The change to District 3-4A presents a new lineup that will open the field up to a whole new set of challenges, which the coaches say they will be more than ready to take on.
Photo: Crowley Post Signal
Photo: Crowley Post Signal
Photo: The Advertiser 22 August 20, 2015
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ST. LOUIS CATHOLIC HIGH
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Back on the field after a bittersweet 2014 season, the Saints are sewing up their losses and are focused on stitching their place in this year’s playoffs. Returning for his second year, Head Coach Charlie Cryer says his Saints are still in the winning groove from finishing 6-2 in their last eight games of 2014, and the returning starters plan on kicking off this season with the same intensity. Still recovering from a few significant injuries, the team is looking to returning running back Colby Rodriguez and 6’4” wide receiver Tyler Washington to march them to victory, though this year’s Friday Night Spotlight may really shine on the Saints powerhouse defense and their ability to shut down the pass with returning stars Jacob Percle at safety, and corner backs Michael Mack and Zach Richard. Even with this experienced depth chart, the Saints will be facing an impressive lineup, playing up in class five times this year and with three matchups against 5a schools. Coach Cryer, however, believes this is the challenge this team has been waiting for all summer.
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HAMILTON CHRISTIAN
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Creating synergy and building unity with anything in life takes time, patience, and dedication. Something Tim Sensley, head coach of Hamilton Christian Academy Football, knows all too well. Returning to the team for his third season as head coach, Sensley looks to guide his fine-tuned Warriors to another year of victory. Finishing 2014 with a 9-1 record, the Warriors are training hard to remain injury-free as they fight through this season. Starting off the preseason after losing a number of seniors, these guys don’t seem to have skipped a beat. Led by an ambitious senior class and a focused panel of coaches, the team is on pace to raise the bar set by last year’s district champs. The coaches are confident with the talent returning this season; they’ve got the team to do it. Guided on the field by strong ironman athletes, quarterback/linebacker Julian Marcantel and offensive/defensive lineman Nick Fletcher, the Warriors say this year’s team will be one to be remembered.
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WASHINGTON MARION HIGH After finishing 3-3 in district play last year, the charging Indians look forward to some new competition in 2015, adding Deridder and Leesville to their schedule. With an experienced group of starters returning, the Indians expect nothing less than a chance at the playoffs this year. They will go to battle this season under the direction of their leader, Head Coach Freddie Jackson, and alongside sophomore running back Jacobi Taylor who rushed for over 1,000 yards last year. With three out of four offensive linemen returning, Taylor is in prime position to pile on another grand. With a run and gun play style, the offense is focused on building a variety of formations to keep defenses on their toes. Most important, the team will need to make some critical adjustments in preparation of their new schedule. The addition of the latest schools is something Coach Harrison says will be a key factor in maintaining the energy and intensity required to sweep the district off its feet.
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Photo compliments of Jason Carroll. owner of Monsour’s Photography on location, Jack Hebert All Star Farm Sulphur, LA. Healthy Woman Advisory Council Members not pictured are: Jamie Fuselier, Cheri Gaston, Jamika Moore, and Kay Morgan.
Lake Area Medical Center presents the Healthy Woman Fifth Anniversary Celebration “Country Come to Town!” Grab your girlfriends and register today to experience a oneof-a-kind comedy show and expo on September 10. To put it simply, when Etta May takes the stage, she is the reigning Queen of Southern Sass. “I find that Southern comics don’t do jokes,” May says, “it’s really a storytelling tradition that we have going on. It’s the frontporch mentality -- you sit around and tell stories on each other. You walk away from a show really knowing a comic. Storytelling Southern comics really let you into their lives.” Much of Etta May’s humor is based on her family, and she says she’ll never be short of subject matter because her husband and kids are always doing something. “There’s material right in my living room,” she laughs. Winner of the prestigious American Comedy Awards’ “Stand-Up Comic of the Year,” Etta May has appeared on Oprah, Comic Strip Live, MTV and CBS 26 August 20, 2015
Sunday Morning. She currently headlines the “Southern Fried Chicks Tour,” selling out theaters all over the country. Etta May will perform during the “Country Come to Town” Healthy Woman Anniversary Event on Thursday, September 10, from 4-8:30 p.m. at L’Auberge Casino Resort in Lake Charles. “Lake Area Medical Center is proud to offer the Healthy Woman program to women throughout Southwest Louisiana, and we’re equally excited to bring Etta May to Lake Charles,” said Lisa Guerrero, Lake Area Medical Center Marketing Director. “Our Anniversary Celebration has become known as a premiere ‘Girls Night Out’ event and this year will prove no different.” “Our Anniversary Celebration will begin with a special Women’s Expo and Marketplace from 4-6 p.m. and will be open to the public. Participants can browse and shop through a variety of health, wellness and retail booths featuring Healthy Woman partners, physicians and local businesses, followed by an entertaining dinner program and comedic presentation beginning at 7 p.m.,” says Marketing Manager and Healthy Woman Coordinator Krystle Blue. “The expo
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2014 Healthy Woman Anniversary Event at L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles
is a great opportunity for participants to get a sampling of various businesses throughout our region.” Individual assigned seating tickets for the dinner program and comedy show are $30, and guaranteed reserved tables of eight (8) for businesses and groups of friends are available for $300. Deadline to purchase tickets is Wednesday, August 26. To reserve tickets online or for more information, log on to www.lakeareamc. com/healthywoman. Those interested in having a booth at the expo may call Krystle Blue at (337) 475-4064 for more information. HEALTHY WOMAN PROGRAM Women juggle many roles and responsibilities throughout their lifetime: mother, daughter, caregiver, household manager, career professional, team mom, volunteer and friend. Many give easily of their time, support and attention to those they love most, but find it challenging to give back to themselves. The Healthy Woman program at Lake Area Medical
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Center was designed by women, for women. The mission: to empower the women of Southwest Louisiana with the knowledge and confidence needed to make informed healthcare decisions for themselves and members of their family, and help maintain a healthy mind, body and spirit. Healthy Woman offers ongoing bimonthly seminars on topics ranging from self-defense to weight management, nutrition, fitness, heart health and even trendy fashion tips. Members are also encouraged to take advantage of inspiring Healthy Woman sponsored events—such as the upcoming Anniversary Celebration on September 10—that will bring women of all ages and walks of life together to celebrate friendships, laughter and good health.
Lisa and Bryan S. Bateman, CEO of Lake Area Medical Center with Bryan’s mother Janey Bateman enjoying the 2014 Healthy Woman Anniversary Event
“Healthy Woman has grown to over 4,000 members since we launched the program in 2010,” says Bryan S. Bateman, Chief Executive Officer at Lake Area Medical Center. “This level of engagement exhibits a clear need for a female-focused health education resource in the community. Lake Area Medical Center is proud to be the one to offer this unique program to the women of Southwest Louisiana.” A Healthy Woman membership is free, and the benefits are priceless. Members receive personal invitations to upcoming events and classes, a monthly e-newsletter subscription, special discounts and offers provided by Healthy Woman partners, and much more! To become a Healthy Woman member, register online at www.lakeareamc. com/healthywoman or call (337) 4754064. LAKE AREA MEDICAL CENTER OFFERS CARE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY Over the past decade, Lake Area Medical Center has increased the variety of medical specialties and healthcare services offered at the 4200 Nelson Road campus in Lake Charles. A sampling of current services include: • Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Center • Cardiology Services • Diagnostic Imaging • 24-Hour Emergency Services • Adult Intensive Care Unit (ICU) • Labor & Delivery Services • Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) • Outpatient & Inpatient Medical and Surgical Services including Robotic-assisted Surgery • Pediatrics • Rehabilitation Services • Wound Care Additional services and affiliations provided by Lake Area Medical Center include: Surgicare of Lake Charles (www.surgicarelc.com), Grand Lake Medical Clinic and Lake Area Physicians Medical Group (www.lakeareaphysicians.com). For more information about Lake Area Medical Center, or to find a physician, log on to www.lakeareamc.com or call (337) 474-6370.
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HEALTHY WOMAN ADVISORY COUNCIL A Healthy Woman Advisory Council comprised of area business women and community volunteers is responsible for organizing and promoting the program throughout the year. The council is led by Healthy Woman Coordinator and Marketing Manager Krystle Blue and Marketing Director Lisa Guerrero. Healthy Woman Advisory Council members include: Jody Barrilleaux, Hixson Funeral Home Krystle Blue, Lake Area Medical Center Lisa Bono, Century 21 Mike D. Bono & Co. Christa Comeaux, Lakeside Bank Beth Dawdy, Treasures of Marilyn’s Becky Dent, Lake Area Medical Center Kristin DiVito, L’Auberge Casino Resort Jamie Fuselier, Advocare Cheri Gaston, Gaston Financial Consulting Lisa Guerrero, Lake Area Medical Center Debbie Holt, Century 21 Mike D. Bono & Co. Kerri Krob, Lake City Printing / FastSigns Candice Menard, Who Dat Property Management Angel Mefford, JD Bank Christi Miller, Brookdale Lake Charles Carmen Million, Better Business Bureau Jamika Moore, Vanity L.Y.F.E. Hairtique Christy Moore-Clark, Southwest Louisiana Credit Union Kay Morgan, Lake Area Medical Center Patricia Philmon, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Linley Richert, The Pediatric Center
HEALTHY WOMAN PARTNERS The program is supported by an array of local businesses serving as official Healthy Woman Partners, including: Title Partner, Nissan of Lake Charles and La Familia Resource Center. Platinum Partners: AdSource Outdoor, FOX 29 & The CW, LaBelle Center for Cosmetic Surgery, Monsour’s Photography, The Pediatric Center and The Vein Center of Southwest Louisiana- Carl Fastabend, M.D. Gold Partners: Acadiana Profile Magazine, L’Auberge Casino Resort, Treasures of Marilyn’s, The Jambalaya News, and THRIVE Magazine. Silver Partners: Merrill Lynch Wealth ManagementPatricia Philmon, The Pathology Laboratory and The VOICE of Southwest Louisiana. Bronze Partners: American Press, Evangeline Home Health, JD Bank, Knight Media Printing, Lakeside Bank, LCP/ FastSigns, Shaklee Nutrition, SNAP Fitness and Southwest Louisiana Credit Union. Supporters: Advanced Medical Equipment & Supplies, Brookdale Lake Charles, The Children’s Clinic of Southwest Louisiana, Gold Canyon- Kathy Poteet, Lagniappe Magazine, Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial, Painting with a Twist, Rodan + Fields Independent Consultant Dewana Young, Sleep Disorder Center of Louisiana, The Charlestonian, The Gift RX, The Perfect Gift, and West M Apartments. For more information on how to become a Healthy Woman Partner, call Krystle Blue, Healthy Woman Coordinator, at (337) 475-4064.
Doing Battle September 12! Boudin Wars is a popular, mouth-watering event in Southwest Louisiana where local restaurants and chefs compete for the title of “Best Boudin in SWLA!” Local restaurants and stores will be allowing visitors to sample their boudin recipes, and visitors will get to choose the area’s best boudin! Each ticket allows the bearer to get a small sample from each boudin vendor. The ticketholder will then be able to cast
their vote for their favorite boudin in a “People’s Choice” category. Tickets are VERY limited, and must be purchased in advance at the Henning Cultural Center or online at www.brimstonemuseum.org. Boudin Wars will be September 12 from: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Henning Cultural Center, 923 South Ruth Street, Sulphur. Admission is $10. Boudin Wars is sponsored by the Lake Charles Convention and Visitor’s Bureau.
Stars and Stripes in the Park Classic Car Show Sept. 12th at 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. featuring classic cars, trucks, hotrods, motorcycles, and more! Free food booths and door prizes! For more info, contact Chris at (337) 3024591 or email at turbocg79@yahoo.com. 28 August 20, 2015
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Cameron Fishing Festival Aug. 21-22 Competitive fishing, authentic Cajun cuisine, live bands, blessing of the fleet, children’s pageants, waterslide, face painting and more, all located directly on the Gulf of Mexico waterfront! Enjoy the scenic drive to Cameron, but watch out for alligators along the way! Aug. 21-22 Cameron Jetty Pavilion, Davis Road, Cameron. Check out their Facebook page for more information.
McNeese Band Fundraiser Aug. 21 McNeese State University will host a Cowboy Kickoff Dinner and Showcase fundraiser for the McNeese Band travel fund Fri., Aug. 21, in Burton Coliseum. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with a dinner that includes barbecue pulled pork sandwiches, potato salad, chips, brownies and beverages. The showcase begins at 7 p.m. with presentations including McNeese head football coach Matt Viator, the football team captains and McNeese President Philip Williams. Performances by the Pride of McNeese Marching Band, Cowgirl Kickers and cheerleaders will follow. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children ages 12 and under.(337) 562-4MSU or (337) 475-5004.
Iowa Arts and Crafts Festival Aug. 22 The seventh annual Iowa Arts and Crafts Festival will be held on Sat., Aug. 22 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Iowa Community Center located at 207 U.S. 90 W in Iowa. This event is free and open to the public. Enjoy live entertainment, light refreshments, arts and crafts demonstrations, pony rides and displays. (337) 721-7101.
Full Throttle Wrestling Fundraiser Aug. 22 Full Throttle Wrestling will sponsor a wrestling fundraiser to benefit Colors for a Cause, an organization that does great work raising funds for and awareness of childhood cancer. The event will be held at the LC Civic Center on Aug. 22. Doors open at 6 p.m., activities begin at 7. Tickets are $10 adults, $5 for children ages 6-12 years old, and kids 5 and under get in free. (337) 491-1256.
Dutch Oven Society Youth Challenge Aug. 22 The Dutch Oven Society is celebrating its four-year anniversary with cookout challenge for area youth to prepare and cook a one-pot meal similar to how Lewis and Clark cooked during their Corps of Discovery Expedition. The event will be held on Sat., Aug. 22 at Sam Houston Jones State Park’s Riverside Pavilion from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Local youths will be teamed with a volunteer mentor and then given hands-on detailed instructions in cooking. All equipment and ingredients for the dish
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will be provided and all cooks will be using charcoal as the main heat source. At noon the dishes will be enjoyed by all in attendance along with others prepared by the Le Chien Cookers. (337) 302-5025, www. ladutch.com.
Children’s Museum Imagination Celebration Aug. 29 The Children’s Museum presents the 13th annual Imagination Celebration! This evening is just for the grown ups and will be “the cat’s meow!” Celebrate the rip-roaring 1920s with the Celebrity Karaoke Contest and sample fabulous food from 20+ area restaurants! Come dressed in your 1920s attire! Here’s hoping the bids for the unique, must-have items in the live and silent auctions will bring in a lot of “clams.” Dancing will follow and you might take home a fabulous prize, as winner’s names will be drawn throughout the night! Reserve your table today. www.swlakids.org.
Watercolor Exhibit @ Stellar Beans Sept. 2-30 “Waterworks,” an exhibit of artwork by students of local artist Sue Zimmermann, will open Sept. 2, at Stellar Beans, 319 Broad Street. The show is a collection of watercolor paintings created in class under Zimmermann’s instruction. The artists exhibiting are Marjorie Cormier, Beth Fontenot, Janice Guillot, Jan Kalna, Cathy King, Regina Lee, Judy Newman, Nancy Peace, Cookie Phillips, Jena Price, Jan Scharrier, Debbie Self, and Sue Zimmermann. The exhibit will be open through September 30 during hours of operation, Mon.-Wed. 7 a.m.-3 p.m.; Thurs.-Sat. 7 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sun 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Little Theatre Presents Nunsense Amen! Sept. 4-20 (Weekends) Nunsense Amen is basically the original Nunsense with all of the characters portrayed by male musical comedy performers. Think of it as Mrs. Doubtfire enters the convent. Members of the cast include: Randy Partin as Sister Mary Regina, Kevin Driscol as Sister Mary Hubert, Robert Grider as Sister Robert Anne, Daniel Sadler as Sister Mary Amnesia, and Damien Thibodeaux as Sister Mary Leo. Greg Stratton is the director. The show opens Friday Sept. 4, and runs three weekends closing on Sept/ 20. Ticket info: thelclt.com or (337) 433-7988.
Tailgate Party Sept. 5 The McNeese State University Alumni Association will host a tailgate party for Cowboy fans prior to the kickoff of the McNeese vs. LSU Tigers football game at 6:30 p.m. Sat., Sept. 5. It will be held from 2:30-5:30
Sept 5 KLYMAXX with Howard Hewett concert
Sept 19 Grand Garage Sale
Sept 7 Boo Zoo’s Labor Day Festival
Sept 25 Better Business Bureau Breakfast
Sept 12 Fashion and Formal Showcase Show
Sept 26 National Hurricane Museum and Science Center Hurricane Awareness Day
Sept 19 World Record Attempt: Largest Gospel Choir
Sept 29 Townsquare Media Job Fair Vol. 7 • No. 9
p.m. at the Carl Maddox Field House on the LSU campus. Meal includes pork chops, chicken quarters, sausage, boudin, potato salad, water, cold drinks and beer. Tickets are $25 for adults, $12.50 for children ages 6-12 and free for children under 5 years old. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance as no tickets will be sold at the door. (337) 4755232, mcneesealumni.com/lsu2015.
‘La Ville Uni” Picnic Sept. 19
BooZoo’s Labor Day Festival Sept. 7
Camacho Cigar Event Sept. 23
A day of great food and Zydeco, the family is invited to come out and celebrate the festival’s 31st year in grand style. Fill up on crawfish etouffee, red beans and rice with sausage and BBQ sandwiches and enjoy the sounds of local Zydeco favorites. Doors open at 10 a.m., with the bands beginning at 11 a.m. Admission: $15 at the door, 12 and under $2. Lake Charles Civic Center, Buccaneer Room..
Westlake’s “La Ville Uni“ picnic (French for “The City United”) will be held Sept. 19. The parade begins at 9:30 a.m. from St. John Bosco church to Pinederosa Park. Opening ceremony starts at 10 a.m. and then the fun begins! Ends at 4 p.m. (337) 540-5950.
Bold is BACK! Cigar Club’s first ever Camacho Cigar event is on the way! Come for great deals, free goods, live music and giveaways and meet Garrett Calhoun from Davidoff here to help show you what BOLD is all about on Wed., Sept 23 starting at 4 p.m. until! 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., Lake Charles (337) 562-8889.
Hope for Haiti Concert Fundraiser Sept. 12 The Dwelling Place Church is hosting a Hope for Haiti Concert featuring Grammy-nominated Mickey Smith Jr. and SAX in the City on Sat., Sept. 12, at 1800 E. College Street. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. for the silent auction; concert is from 7-9 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance and can be purchased at Kids Kastle Daycare at 3934 Common St. or Lighting Couture at 1701 E. McNeese Street. Tickets can also be purchased at the event for $15. Hope for Haiti is a benefit to raise money for a Mission of Hope trip to Haiti scheduled for November 2015. (337) 302-7970.
Boudin Wars Sept. 12 Boudin Wars will be held on Sept. 12 at the Henning Cultural Center in Sulphur from 11 a.m.- 1 pm. Local restaurants and chefs will compete for the title of “Best Boudin in SWLA!” Visitors can sample their boudin recipes and will get to choose the area’s best boudin! Tickets are $10 each. and are VERY limited, and must be purchased in advance at the Henning Cultural Center in Sulphur or online at www.brimstonemuseum.org.
Stars & Stripes Classic Car Show Sept. 12 Cars, cars and more cars! Come out and see hundreds of classic cars, hot rods, trucks, and motorcycles. Entry for show vehicles and spectators is FREE. Door prizes will be awarded, with food booths, music, and entertainment for the children. There will be an awards presentation following the show, featuring Stars and Stripes Beauty Pageant winners. The classic cars and hot rods will be cruising on Ruth Street after the show. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. in Heritage Square, Sulphur. www.sulphur.org.
Les Cenelles Gala at Central Library Sept. 15 Award-winning Louisiana musician and Poet Laureate Zachary Richard will host an opening gala to celebrate the historical book Les Cenelles on Tues., Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. at Central Library located at 301 W. Claude Street, Lake Charles. Considered one of the most important publications of both Franco-Louisiana and Afro-American history Les Cenelles is an anthology of Creole poetry published in New Orleans in 1845. Seventeen Louisiana poets, all French-speaking free men of colour, contributed to Les Cenelles and only 5 copies of it are known to exist. The program is free and open to all ages. www.calcasieulibrary.org.
St. Theresa Bon Ton Festival Sept. 18-20 The St. Theresa Bon Ton Festival is a local tradition that is enjoyed by all ages! There will be lots of great food, music, rides, live and silent auctions, bingo, a sweet shop with famous pies, and a large garage sale. The newly renovated covered pavilion has plenty of room for dancing, relaxing, eating and visiting - rain or shine! St. Theresa Catholic Church, 4822 Carlyss Drive, Carlyss. Vol. 7 • No. 9
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Mission Impossible 5: Rogue Nation (Paramount, 2015) This: It’s just wonderful to go into a movie with no preconceptions or expectations and to be pleasantly surprised. Despite its serialistic title, Mission Impossible 5: Rogue Nation manages to stand very well on its own. To get you up to speed from the old
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TV show, Jim Phelps died in Mission Impossible 1. At that point, Agent Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) took over as the principal agent of the Impossible Missions Force (IMF). You know the drill, they do impossible missions. In Rogue Nation, IMF is being transferred to the CIA by Secretary Alan Hunley (Alec Baldwin.) His reasoning is that the special team is simply outdated and really reckless, having barely foiled a plot to sell nerve gas to terrorists. So the head of IMF,
Agent William Brandt (Jeremy Renner) reports to the Secretary who wants Ethan Hunt brought in for questioning. Ethan is actually tracking down a terrorist group called (get ready) the Syndicate. More on this ultra-original name later. Ethan‘s only clue is a drawing of a villain who almost kills him. (Evidently Ethan has a really photographic memory.) Since IMF is shut down, Ethan is officially rogue and must secretly track the mysterious villain and the Syndicate by secretly getting the help of his IMF team. Ok, this plot, complete with an evil group called the Syndicate and the agent gone rogue, is so overused that it’s become cliché in the world of espionage movies. The fun of Rogue Nation is that it takes this cliché and piles more clichés on top of it, creating a fantastic suspense movie through excellent acting and filming. So, we have the classic Espionage-during-an-opera sequence, where Ethan is fighting for his life above a Viennese production of Turandot. The music is beautiful and the action is just as well-orchestrated. This sequence leads to another sequence, and another, and you get the idea. In a classic car chase scene, we don’t just get a car crash, we get a car flipping end over end with the riders in air bags until it comes to a stop. There are robotically mind-controlled people, a beautiful deadly mystery agent, and
best of all, the whole Mission Impossible team complete with Luther Stickell (Ving Rhames) in a cocky fedora. I haven’t had so much fun watching an espionage movie in a long time. Simon Pegg as the computer specialist of the team gives a perfect touch of high tech to IMF, just like in the TV show. Heck, the opening sequence with Agent Hunt walking through the city with the title coming up ‘Starring Tom Cruise” makes you feel like you’re watching the TV show. But amazingly, none of this is overdone. The fedora is worn at just the right angle, the Syndicate is cruel without being silly or overly seedy, and Alec Baldwin even uses the words “wanton mayhem” to describe the team’s recklessness, but it all just comes off for some reason. And Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt has a way of using a gesture or an expression, even the tensing of a jaw muscle in one scene, to let us and his cohorts know that something is up. Also his wild-eyed look is even scarier in middle age, sort of like Clint Eastwood. All of this makes Rogue Nation a perfect summer movie, and with little profanity and no steamy gratuitous sex scenes, leaves us to enjoy sophisticated espionage, just like old times. Rogue Nation is rated PG13 for knife fights, tranquilizer darts, a pointless killing, and wanton mayhem. Enjoy!
Vol. 7 • No. 9
Mess One Man’s Struggle to Clean Up His House and His Act Once again, you couldn’t find your keys. You were pretty sure you put them down on the kitchen counter. On top of last week’s mail. Which you’d laid next to a shirt you bought on sale in April, breakfast dishes from who-knows-when, five plastic bags, and a dead plant. Yeah, your house is cluttered, but it’s not so bad – which is what Barry Yourgrau thought until, as he says in his memoir Mess, he began to look around… The apartment hadn’t always been his. It had, in fact, belonged to Barry Yourgrau’s girlfriend once, and she’d bequeathed it to him when she moved and he needed a place to stay. So when Cosima knocked on the door of the apartment one afternoon, she was surprised that Yourgrau wouldn’t let her in. He couldn’t, because Yourgrau was a hoarder “at wit’s end.” Postcards, old calendars, paper bags, souvenirs, and bric-a-brac littered the floors of his home, covered with dust, stored in boxes, slung across furniture and countertops. Not only were the rooms cluttered, Vol. 7 • No. 9
but so was Yourgrau’s mind: as a writer, he couldn’t seem to stay focused. His home was too much of a distraction. Cosima gave him an ultimatum: clean or else. So why not make it a “project”? Yourgrau decided that de-cluttering –and understanding his compulsion to hoard –- might make an interesting story, perhaps even a book. A twin with a younger singleton brother, Yourgrau had spent his childhood helping his family to move; his father was a professor, and had worked his way around to a series of jobs. Yourgrau remembered his mother’s death with deep sorrow, but recalled his father as “domineering.” Still, getting rid of their “stuff ” was an emotional struggle. But, then again, getting rid of his own possessions wasn’t easy, either. Yourgrau sought counseling. He read up on hoarding and its psychology, attended a twelve-step program, accepted help from several places, spoke with other hoarders and experts, procrastinated, and tried tackling the mess on his own. Of his struggles, he says, “A
man who cannot let go: that would be me.” There are a lot of pages here in which Mess lives up to its title. That disappointed me; I had such high hopes for this memoir, but a first-half hodgepodge makes author Barry Yourgrau’s story initially very hard to follow. It doesn’t help that Yourgrau sprinkles his narrative with highbrow literary references and other edgeof-mainstream nods; a sense of mania and referring to people by a series of nicknames only adds to the chaos. Fortunately, things turn around about halfway through the book. There, Yourgrau starts to dig into the reasoning and psychology of hoarding
by consulting experts, which tampers the frenzy. Indeed, the second half of this book is more introspective, more down-to-brass-tacks, and much more interesting. Ultimately, I don’t think this will help much if you need advice on hoarding or cleaning. It’s just too cluttered for that but, if entertainment is your goal, here’s your book. If you can, then, Mess is something to find. “Mess: One Man’s Struggle to Clean Up His House and His Act” by Barry Yourgrau ©2015, W.W. Norton $25.95/$30.95 Canada 276 pages August 20, 2015 33
Thursday, Aug. 20 Happy Hour 4 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Rusty Yates 6 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Joe Harmon & the Harmonics 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Encore 8 p.m. – midnight @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Chinatown 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC Encore 9 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Chinatown 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush 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
Troy Laz Band
Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Boomerang 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
Friday, Aug. 21 Rusty Yates 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
RKW Acoustic Show Saturday, Aug. 22 9 p.m.-midnight @ Cigar Club
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 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
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Killawatts 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Mr. DJ 9 p.m. @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Dance Night 9 p.m.- 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Rusty Yates 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
KC & the Sunshine Band 7 p.m. @Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Jessie Taylor 9 p.m.-midnight @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC Boomerang 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton Allison Collins 9 p.m.- 2:30 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.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Vol. 7 • No. 9
Troy Laz Band 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Sunday, Aug. 23
Ellis Vanicor & The Lacassine Playboys 3-7 p.m. @ Wayne & Layne’s Deli 3906 Hwy 27 S, Sulphur Kenzie Newman & Brandi Alyse 4 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy, 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
Chester & Jarius Daigle Nervous Rex 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
@Jack Daniels’ Whiskey Brunch L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar and Grill 710 Ryan St., LC
Vol. 7 • No. 9
5-9 p.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
Monday, Aug. 24 Open Mic Night 9-midnight @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC
Two for Tuesday on Everything! 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Wednesday, Aug. 26 Tuesday, Aug. 25 Guys Night @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC
Jazz Night with Mickey Smith 6:30 @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, LC
Matt and Katie 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Mike & Amber 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Fuse 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Chris Miller & Bayou Roots 6:30 @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.), LC
August 20, 2015 35
Kory Fontenot 9 p.m.-midnight @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC Talent Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC Thursday August 27 Happy Hour 4 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Julie Williams 6 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Alfred Doucet Band 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Fuse 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Roulette Ramblers 9 p.m. – midnight @ 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 9 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
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Friday, Aug. 28 Julie Williams 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Big Jimmy & Reckless 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059 (Old Town Road) LC Roulette Ramblers 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
Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
LA Roxx 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Karaoke 9 p.m. @ Coolers 3622 1/2 Ryan St. LC Dance Night 9 p.m. – 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC Acoustic Pie 9 p.m.-midnight @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC
Fuse 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Red Republiq
Joe Harmon & the Harmonics 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge
DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark
9:30 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
REGISTRATION SET FOR YOUNG MUSICIANS PROGRAM The McNeese State University Department of Performing Arts and the Dr. Francis G. Bulber Youth Orchestra will hold registration for the fall session on Mon., Aug. 31 at 4 p.m. in the Shearman Performing Arts Center Tritico Theatre lobby. Current members and new students will be treated to a pizza party from 4-5 p.m. A parent and student orientation meeting will follow registration. Auditions will be held for new students wishing to participate in the Symphonic Youth Orchestra and current members wishing to advance from the intermediate strings class. The award-winning organization will be offering classes for first-time string students in violin, viola, cello and guitar. Instruction will include note reading in both clefs. No previous music experience is necessary. Returning members and experienced youth musicians will be offered classes according to their level of experience. All members participate in an end of the semester performance. For more information, call (337) 582-2466. Vol. 7 • No. 9
L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Sax in the City
Saturday, Aug. 29
Dinner and Concert August 30
Julie Williams 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Join GRAMMY-nominated saxophonist Mickey Huber Smith, Jr., the SITC band and special guests at Sax in the City, a dinner/concert series that takes place the last Sunday of every month through November at Chateau du Calcasieu, 932 Enterprise Blvd. Lake Charles. A catered dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. followed by the concert at 7 p.m. Dinner and concert tickets are $30, or a $15 concert
Summer Luau with Cold Sweat 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059 (Old Town Road) LC Aaron Lewis 8 p.m. @ Golden Nugget 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC (Tickets Start @ $40, Ticketmaster fees may apply) Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC Cade Fontenot 9 p.m.-midnight @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC
LA Roxx Joe Harmon & The Harmonics 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
Roulette Ramblers 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
9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Sunday, Aug. 30 Glenn Zeringue & Carl Richardson
Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar and Grill 710 Ryan St., LC
Ellis Vanicor & The Lacassine Playboys 3-7 p.m. @ Wayne & Layne’s Deli 3906 Hwy 27 S, Sulphur
Clayton Rougeau & the Wild West Band 4 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, LC
11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Fuse 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Vol. 7 • No. 9
@Jack Daniels’ Whiskey Brunch L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Kris Harper 5-9 p.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
ticket can be purchased at the door. The mission for this event is to bring awareness to Music Makers, an organization that refurbishes old instruments and gives them to at-risk children or children who are interested in learning how to play. There is a drop off at the concerts for those interested in donating instruments to the cause. Advanced tickets can be purchased at Swicegood Music (337) 477-2704, 308 E Prien Lake Road in Lake Charles or Bearden’s Music (337) 625-5397, 202 Cities Service Hwy in Sulphur. They can be contacted for more information as well.
Sax in the City with Mickey Smith Dinner @5:30, concert @ 7 p.m. Chateau du Calcasieu 932 Enterprise Blvd. LC Tickets can be purchased at Swicegood Music (308 E Prien Lake Rd) & at Bearden’s Music (202 Cities Service Hwy.) DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Monday, Aug. 31 Open Mic Night 9-midnight @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC August 20, 2015 37
Tuesday, Sept. 1 Guys Night @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC
Jazz Night with Mickey Smith 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, LC Kris Harper 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush
Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Dancing 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Wednesday, Sept. 2 Karaoke with DJ Cornbread 7 p.m. @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC
A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit Rock and Roll… Having spent a few years in the entertainment business, I not only had the pleasure of working with scores of major acts, but I also had the chance to work and run shows within many different genres of music. From country to classic rock to big band to modern rock to adult contemporary, disco, soul, funk, and even Polynesian folk music, I saw them all come and go, each lighting up our stage and exciting our crowds before packing up and heading on to the next town. The more I worked with these varied and sundry artists the more I realized not only how alike all the different artists and genres really are, but also how dependent many of these careers have been on being able to reach fans of various types of music. One of the most memorable days I had during this time was with a veritable legend, with six GRAMMYs and 40 Number One hits under his belt who 38 August 20, 2015
Mike & Amber 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd., LC
3-H-G 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
ended up being one of the nicest and funniest human beings I’ve had the pleasure to come across. Ronnie Milsap is widely known as a country artist, but he has played, written and performed everything from pop to rock and R&B. I took the opportunity to chat about my favorite of his tunes, the 1977 hit “It Was Almost Like A Song” while sitting in the green room during makeup, shortly before the show. His reply came in his boisterous North Carolina-accented voice and went something like this: “You know, I remember the day I heard that song. Man, I just loved it! I went home and sat at the piano and played that song all afternoon until my wife Joyce finally walked in the room and said ‘WHAT are you playing?’ I told her that it was this new song that I’d heard by Hal David and Archie Jordan. ‘Well, I don’t like it!’ And she walked outta the room. I sat there and said to myself ‘I bet you’re gonna like it when I make it my next #1 hit!’” And he closed with a big billowing laugh. A hit it was, and a very important one at that. Milsap started, not as a
Karaoke with Avid Sounds 9 p.m. @ Coolers 3622 1/2 Ryan St. LC Talent Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Thursday, Sept. 3 Happy Hour
country artist, but as a rock/pop/and R&B musician working with such acts as Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles and James Brown and recording with the one and only Elvis Presley (“Don’t Cry Daddy” and “Kentucky Rain”). Milsap had actually seen his name on the Billboard Charts as early as 1965 with the super soulful R&B single “Never Had It so Good.” (My word, please listen to this if you haven’t). He didn’t even start playing country music until he met Charley Pride in the early ‘70s. That “hit-to-be” that his wife didn’t care for was not only a Number One country hit, but it also became his first Billboard Top 100 hit in three years and was his first ever appearance on the Adult Contemporary chart, a chart he would become well associated with as he cranked out hit after hit after hit through the ‘80s that resonated both with country and a/c listeners. It’s what made him one of the biggest names in music of that decade. Make Your own Kinda Music, Even if Nobody Else Sings Along.... And he is but one example (just a favorite of mine, to be sure). Kenny and Dolly took a Bee Gees tune Vol. 7 • No. 9
4 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Kay Miller & Aaron Horne 6 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC David Joel 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
right up the charts that is marked as one of the first true “crossover” hits since the inception of the term. Darius Rucker went just the opposite route, hanging up his “Hootie” spurs and going country with an Old Crow Medicine Show tune that went huge. Gaga and Tony Bennett were a combination that no one saw coming that received killer reviews and plays to sold-out crowds across the nation. ELO invoked Grieg and Beethoven in their orchestral power pop. The Three Tenors took opera to the masses and Freddie Mercury teamed up with Spanish Diva Montserrat Caballe for his late-in-life opus “Barcelona”. Many artists will tell you that the first thing the industry will try to do with an act is put it into a nice little box (better known as genres) because it makes it easier for labels to market the talent. To “crossover” as an artist means that you have received the genre designation and are established enough as an act to be recognized by that genre. You can then either turn around and do something completely different or create work that has Vol. 7 • No. 9
Swagger 8 p.m. – midnight @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
3-H-G
9 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Ron Fruge
8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini
a broad enough appeal to reach audiences of different types at the same time. Elvis is one of the most obvious examples of the latter, but other acts like Garth Brooks, who has teamed up with the likes of KISS and even jumped into his own alt rocker Chris Gaines persona, have found ways to jump that genre bridge and expand themselves artistically enough to find a bigger, if even, unexpected audience. To defy that industry established label and continue to find success should be
Karaoke Night
a testament to every artist out there to not be defined or limited to the conventional parameters put upon them. The ability to change, grow and defy convention is the sign of a truly capable artist. They have accomplished something great as performer sand have done something that all artists should aspire to: create something genuine and universal regardless of what anyone or any charts say they SHOULD create. That’s how legends are made. Not that all of them will become legends, but it
Friday, Sept. 4 Kay Miller & Aaron Horne
9:30 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
is that type of artistic mentality that opens one up to the possibility of greatness. It’s how we’ll find that next Elvis or Ray Charles or maybe even that young blind North Carolina boy that Ray thought was gonna change the world. In his own way, he did, as did all these other adventurous musicians that believed convention wasn’t good enough and were bold enough to go wherever their inspiration took them. They made their own kinda music.. and that is easily the single most important type of music to make.
Something’s Happening Here... Friday and Saturday, July 24-25: The 26th Annual Marshland Festival - Lake Charles Civic Center Granted it’s “Been a While” since we’ve heard from ‘90s rock / metal outfit Staind, but frontman Aaron Lewis seems totally okay with getting “Outside” of his rock roots and has been a notable presence on the country scene since. Lewis has worked with the likes of George Jones, Charlie Daniels and Chris Young and has proven that the boundaries between country and rock are far closer than most would have imagined. The rocker turned “Country Boy” is bringing his new sound to Golden Nugget on August 29, and if you want to see just how little “genre” can mean to an artist, GO SEE THIS SHOW!
A Country Boy Can Survive... In any type of music, apparently. My message to artists here is to do just that: Survive. Not just maintain, but innovate and change and grow and to be willing to take those chances to let THEIR voice and THEIR music be heard. Cut through the static and let your own song play. I’ll be listening and looking forward to all the crazy and honest and real music you have to offer. Frankly, I can’t wait to hear it. Until next time... I’ll see you at the show! August 20, 2015 39
Swagger 9 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
The Flamethrowers 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush 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 Isis 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder LA Express 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
Mr. DJ 9 p.m. @ Bourbonz 3436 Ryan St., LC Dance Night 9 p.m.- 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Saturday, Sept. 5 Kay Miller & Aaron Horne 7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC LA Express 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton Encore 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Swagger 9 p.m.– 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Isis 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
40 August 20, 2015
Vol. 7 • No. 9
Vol. 7 • No. 9
August 20, 2015 41
JURASSIC QUEST It was a prehistoric weekend at the Lake Charles Civic Center as folks turned out in droves to see the animatronic splendor of Jurassic Quest. This show included not only the moving thunder lizards but games, educational opportunities including actual dinosaur fossils, food and much, much more! It was an earthshaking time for both the young and the young at heart. Kudos to the City for bringing in such a great show!
Piper Broussard and Pam Duhon
Abram, Charles and Nora Lyons
Leighann, Jason and Cheree Gully
James and Laura Bienvineu and Clara Kallenbach
Niluha and Rashund Hargrow Jr., Hallie and Blake Jean and Kailey and Eli Lewell
MIDNIGHT FANTASIES For the 24th time, the Midnight Fantasies Car Club has rallied motor enthusiasts from across the region and beyond for its spectacular Antique and Classic Auto show that took place at Burton Coliseum recently. Not only was it fun for participants and patrons it was fun for a good cause as well, namely Colors for a Cause, a local non-profit aiding the families of cancer-stricken children. Great job to the organizers and participants!
Jude Fontenot and his ‘80 Corvette
Harry Lemonier and his ‘78 El Camino 42 August 20, 2015
Kelly Bass and Trey Cooley
Bob Long and his ‘33 Ford Coupe
Charlie Pausina, Keith Lange, Mike Sewell, and Mike Pausina of Toulouse Street Rods Vol. 7 • No. 9
TOURNAMENT OF THE STARS The Tournament of the Stars features national and international professional players that join with participating teams vying for prizes, bragging rights and a chance to learn firsthand from the pros out on the hardwood. And speaking of learning, all the proceeds from this event go towards scholarships for young athletes to keep them in the game of getting a good college education. Sounds like a slam dunk to me! Congrats to all of this years participants for a great weekend!
Harley Henderson and Paris and Lon’dynn Wilridge
Otis Guillory and Al Wardel
Lindsey Boldon and Lisha Ray
Joseph Blaze and Davil Gray
Kyndall Dykes, Maurice Foster and Charles Hammork
ARTS & CRABS FEST From the deep abyss of the Gulf it came and so did scores of seafood lovers and music fans to this year’s knockout edition of the Arts and Crabs Fest. Folks packed up the Burton Coliseum for their share of Louisiana beer, music and a bevy of crab dishes prepared by local vendors squaring off to see who had the best crab dish around. A big thanks to Ashli (King Crab) Waldrep, Jody (Delta “Blues” Crab) Taylor and all the talented people at the Arts and Humanities Council for making this great day happen. Way to go!
Savanna Demartie with Yvonne and Robert Dick
Amy, Hal and Sue McMillian Vol. 7 • No. 9
Holly and Kyle Clawson
Amanda White and Crystal Briscoe
Kyra Savoy, Alberto Galan and Chris Shearman August 20, 2015 43