The Jambalaya News - 10/07/16, Vol. 8, No. 12

2 October 7, 2016

Vol. 8 • No. 12

October 7, 2016 • Volume 8 • Issue 12

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

REGULARS 6 We are SWLA! 8

Dang Yankee

www.thejambalayanews.com

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Tips from Tip

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Adoption Corner

Publisher/Executive Editor Lauren Abate lauren@thejambalayanews.com

10 Fishin’ Tales 12 Tales of the Bayou Pickers

Contributors Danny Allain Nicole Shuff Arabie George Cline Dan Ellender Julie Ann Fay Patricia Landry Jason Machulski Mike McHugh Roger Miller Justin Morris Russell Pawlowski Terri Schlichenmeyer

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14 Trippin’

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15 The Pirate’s Platter 16 Soul Matters

FEATURES 5 Brad Trahan’s KBYS Dance Party!

17 Women’s Health 22 Fall Weddings

Sales

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lauren@thejambalayanews.com

Graphics Art/Production Director Burn Rourk

THE SPICE OF SWLA 28 Interview with the Maestro: LC Symphony Begins Season

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30 Event Guide Business Office Manager Jeanie Rourk

34 Family Fun Night at the Movies 35 Bookworm Sez… 36 Lake Charles Film & Music Festival 2016 38 heART of SWLA: Morgan Allain, The Inkling Girl

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. 8 • No. 12

40 Nightlife Guide 42 Justin Morris’s Lake Charles 45 Funbolaya

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46 Society Spice

October 7, 2016 3

Path of

Hurricane season is in full force, with all that comes with it. As we speak, Matthew is raging across the Atlantic, creating havoc over Haiti.

But the destruction that I’m referring to in the title is not about the damage caused by hurricanes. I’m talking about something far worse: the damage caused by cats.

If they aren’t sleeping or eating, the are all on Search and Destroy Missions. They are determined to break everything you own. No matter how high you place it, they will find it. You can even put it in a cupboard and they will get it.

I had one cat who decided that sleeping in a kitchen cabinet

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Destruction was a good idea. He just had to get rid of all those pesky glasses and dishes so he could have more room. I kid you not.

Clothes in drawers? Forget about it. Leave a drawer open a fraction of an inch and it’s an invitation for a curious, flexible paw to reach in, open the drawer wider, and proceed to fling most of what’s in there on the floor. Of course, some items must be left for comfy bedding. Then the feline settles in, content and peaceful, until you come home and find your clothes strewn around while someone is snoring in the drawer. Or else, even worse, the clothes were just tossed around for the heck of

it, and the guilty party isn’t anywhere in the vicinity.

Clothes hanging nicely in your closet? They make a mockery of your good intentions. Pull All That Off Hangers! Now! They have no reason to do this, other than simple cat-ness. If they can mess with something, they will. The toilet paper roll. The paper towels. The dish towels. The mail. Put it on the table, and Lily promptly goes to sleep on it. Then, she wakes up and upchucks a hairball all over it.

And kicks it all off the table.

Princess occasionally likes to sit on top of the refrigerator. In order to get up there, she has to jump on top of the microwave first. Frankly, I don’t know how she can even do that because she is morbidly obese (when we got her she was even larger). If there is anything on top of the micro (boxes of crackers, for example), it will end up on the floor, along with anything else on the counter that happens to be in the vicinity of her very clumsy leap. Think Chris Farley doing ballet.

What makes it all so bad is that They Just Don’t Care.

They will smash something

to pieces and give you a dirty look if you complain. Yesterday, Phoenix knocked over a vintage lamp that was on my desk. Down it went, smashing the bulb, and I actually heard a sputter and saw sparks as the lamp itself broke. Phoenix ran out of the room pretty quickly, only because I was yelling.

Otherwise, he would have stuck around to admire his handiwork and expect me to give him a treat.

Of course, there is no solution to this problem. Cats will be cats, and you can’t have nice things around them. Eventually, they will find them and they will destroy them. And then yawn and ask for a belly rub. Or a snack. Or whatever it is that totally spoiled creatures demand from their humans, suckers that we are.

And I wouldn’t have it any other way. Meow.

Lauren Abate

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Tune into the Joyful Tunes at DANCE PARTY MIX KBYS 88.3 FM!

By Lauren Abate Brad Trahan has been a hair stylist for years, but like many creative people, music has always been a big part of his life. And to his delight, he has happily fallen into a new gig that allows him to express his love of music while not giving up his day job.

Trahan is the latest DJ at McNeese’s radio station KBYS 88.3.

Every Sunday from 2-4 p.m., you can find him spinning your favorite party tunes from the ‘70s and ‘80s.

The Jam caught up with him recently to ask him a few questions.

JAM: Can you give me a little background info on yourself ?

Brad Trahan: Well, I left Cameron when I was 17 and went to cosmetology school in Dallas. I worked there for two years. When I came back for my sister’s wedding in July of ’81, I decided that it was time to come home. I opened a salon in Cameron and it was a hit, as no one down there did precision cutting (not knocking anyone).

Then, I met Keith, my partner now for 34 years. After driving back and forth to work for some time, I decided to move my business to Lake Vol. 8 • No. 12

Charles. After working with other salons, I decided to open ONE HAIR PLACE in November 1986.

Still there and love my clients/ friends. And my co-workers are the absolute best.

JAM: How did you get the KBYS gig?

BT: Weird! I was listening to a Saturday morning show and was always calling in requests. One day out of the blue, I asked if I could see the radio station, as I had never been inside one. I FELL IN LOVE! I’ve been a music lover since I can remember; we always had music in our home growing up. In fact, Keith and I have a very large music collection.

After being invited to go to the studio many times, the guy that was doing the Saturday morning show gave my name to the operations manager, David Wynn, who wanted me to take over that Saturday morning show that was Country and Cajun. I initially accepted, then changed my mind and asked if I could do a dance music show.

And David graciously agreed.

That’s how DPM was born.

JAM: How did you prepare for

your first show?

BT: As far as I’m concerned, my first show was my best. Now, I seem to overthink everything. For my first show, I just grabbed a lot of music from my library and went to town!

JAM: Was it difficult suddenly becoming a DJ? BT: Let me say that everyone at the station is so totally over the top at being helpful. They are truly some of the nicest people I have ever met in my life!

JAM: Tell us all about the Dance Party Mix! BT: DPM is a really different and eclectic show for KBYS. I play music strictly from the dance floor when my age group was partying.

It’s basically late ‘70sand ‘80s. All remixes and dance singles.

JAM: Is there anything else you would like to add?

BT: I love volunteering at KBYS. This station has taken over the SWLA airwaves and I’m so excited to be a part of something that is growing by leaps and bounds. And hopefully, I’ll be able to increase my airtime!

October 7, 2016 5

Lyons Recipient of WCCH Foundation/Mac Burns Scholarship The West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Foundation recently awarded the WCCH Foundation/Mac Burns Scholarship to Sarah Lyons, a 2016 graduate of Hackberry High School. Sarah completed 40 hours of college courses and attends McNeese State University where she plans to study electrical engineering with a minor in biology, as her ultimate goal is to become a neurologist and conduct research in regards to autism.

The $1200 scholarship is presented to a graduating high school senior in the service district of WCCH, who has chosen a career in the medical field, and who will be attending McNeese State University in the fall and spring semesters after graduation from high school. For more information, call (337) 527-4144.

Peloquin Earns Healthcare Facility Manager Credential

J.W. Peloquin

JW Peloquin, VP of Facilities Management and Safety Officer at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, recently obtained certification in Healthcare Facilities by the American Hospital Association. A professional who holds the credential of Certified Healthcare Facility Manager is knowledgeable of the health care environment and health care facility needs in the areas of compliance; planning, design, and construction; maintenance and operations; finance and administration, and is able to adapt this knowledge to their individual health care organization’s needs and goals.

IBERIABANK Donates to Family & Youth IBERIABANK donated $5,000 in sponsorship of the 2016 Family & Youth Annual Meeting and Awards Presentation held on Monday, June 27 at L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles. The Annual Meeting and Awards Presentation was held to highlight another successful year at Family & Youth and to share Family & Youth’s vision for the upcoming year. During the event, Alyssa Norwood and Jalyn Thomas were honored as the 2015 Youth of the Year recipients and Dr. Edgar McCanless was honored as the 2015 Humanitarian of the Year.

L to R: Rickey Watson, WCCH Foundation President; Debby Nabours, WCCH Foundation Executive Director; Sarah Lyons, Scholarship Recipient, Janie Fruge’, WCCH CEO.

August 25, 2016 Proclaimed Keith W. Henson Day The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury proclaimed Thursday, August 25, 2016, as Keith W. Henson Day in Calcasieu Parish. Henson played an integral role in enhancing the quality of life in Calcasieu Parish for almost two decades. Most recently, he served as Sr. VP/ GM of L’Auberge Casino Resort, and also as a member of the board of directors of the Chamber SWLA and the SWLA Convention & Visitors Bureau. He served 19-years as an employee of Pinnacle Entertainment. Henson is leaving Southwest Louisiana to take on a new role with Pinnacle Entertainment in Kansas City.

Truong Named 2016 Golden Nugget LC Iron Chef

L to R: Ben Marriner, IBERIABANK Advisory Board Member, Phil Earhart, SWLA Market President for IBERIABANK, and Julio Galan, President & CEO of Family & Youth.

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Bryce Truong, executive chef at Lillie’s Asian Cuisine, was named the winner of the 2016 Golden Nugget Lake Charles Iron Chef Competition on August 30. Nine chefs from restaurant concepts at Golden Nugget were presented with a basket of ingredients from which they prepared an appetizer and an entrée. Points were awarded for the creativity, presentation and taste of each dish by a panel of six judges.

Truong will compete in the 11th Annual Iron Chef competition at the Galveston Island Bryce Truong Convention Center on September 27-28 where 31 chefs from 23 Landry’s Inc. concept restaurants will compete for the title of 2016 Landry’s Iron Chef.

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Arts Council Partners with The Kroger Company The Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana and The Kroger Company are calling all local artists for a chance to create an interior mural within a local Kroger store in Lake Charles. Artists are urged to submit a short bio and examples of their artwork to the Arts Council by September 30, 2016. The goal is to create an environment that unites and inspires members of the community. The mural should aim to encourage community gathering and celebrate the spirit of neighborhood. Materials used to complete the mural need to be durable and resistant to vandalism. For more information, contact Ashli Waldrep at 4392787 or ashliw@artscouncilswla.org.

CASA Receives Donation from Axiall Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), a division of Family & Youth Counseling Agency received a $25,000 donation from Axiall Corporation.

Axiall Corporation donated the money in support of CASA’s initiative to advocate on behalf of abused and neglected L to R: Julio Galan, President/CEO of Family & Youth; Erika Simon, VP/Family & Youth; Olivia Vidal, Communi- children. The donation cations Specialist, Axiall and Marquita Brass, HR Business will go to support the Partner for Axiall training and retention of community volunteers who will provide advocacy services to children in the foster care system. For more information about Family & Youth visit www.fyca.org, call (337) 436-9533, or like Family & Youth on Facebook.

Mayor Roach to Honor Creative Workforce during Mayor’s Arts Awards In concert with the City of Lake Charles, the Arts Council of SWLA invites the public to the 2016 Mayor’s Arts Awards ceremony scheduled for Friday, November 4 at 6 p.m. in the Benjamin W. Mount Auditorium at Central School. Lake Charles Mayor Randy Roach will award those working in the arts by recognizing the contributions of Mayor Randy Roach Southwest Louisiana’s creative workers, patrons, and artists to the region’s culture. Award winners will be kept secret until the night of the ceremony. Business casual attire is recommended, and a reception will follow the ceremony. For more information, call the Arts Council at (337) 439-2787.

The Spirit of Hampton Award Recipient Danny Lemons, maintenance engineer, at Hampton Inn Sulphur, was recently awarded “The Spirit of Hampton” award, which is the brand’s highest form of individual recognition. This is the first time an employee from any Hampton Inn by Hilton property in SWLA has earned this prestigious honor. Lemons has worked in the hospitality industry for the past eight years as a maintenance engineer and has been with Hampton Inn Sulphur, for the past seven months.

Capital One Donates to Junior Achievement Capital One Bank recently donated $10,000 to Junior Achievement of Southwest Louisiana in support of financial literacy programs for area K – 12th grade students. Capital One Bank volunteers taught many of the programs, sharing their time and knowledge to help young people succeed in a global economy.

CHRISTUS Donates to McNeese CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital donated $5,000 to the McNeese State University Alumni Association to help sponsor 2016 Homecoming week activities Oct. 22-29.

Family & Youth Elects Officers for Youth Advisory Council Family & Youth Counseling Agency announces the newly elected officers of its Youth Advisory Council (YAC). Officers for the 2016-2017 school year are Charles Vanchiere, Chair; Avrie Celestine, Vice-Chair; Ty Touvell, Secretary; and Sarah Berwick, Parliamentarian.

Charles Vanchiere Vol. 8 • No. 12

Avrie Celestine

Ty Touvell

Sarah Berwick October 7, 2016 7

The GO Generation

Whoever invented this Pokemon GO game has really come up with something. He’s the only one I can think of who’s figured out how to get much of our younger generation to go out of doors.

This younger generation we refer to as the Millenials.

It’s an official designation given by the Census Bureau’s Division of Age Group Naming. This is their sole function and one they execute faithfully every 30 years or so, which makes them among the most productive of all Federal agencies. Not that they always do it well. I’ll give them credit for being creative when they named my generation the “Baby Boomers.” But then in the 1980s, when it was time to name a new batch of babies, all they could manage was “Generation X.” This was doubtless

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a consequence of domestic budget cuts during the Reagan Era. Millenials are different in a lot of ways from us Baby Boomers, with their preference for staying indoors being just one example. When we were young, the last place we wanted to be was inside the house. That’s where our parents usually were, and we didn’t even want to be in the same time zone as our parents, much less under the same roof. So we hung out in back alleys, on street corners, at Led Zeppelin concerts, or anywhere that our parents weren’t likely to be.

The idea of hanging out at home is more attractive to young people because they have one thing that we didn’t—video game consoles. Your average Millenial could spend hours on end

tucked away in his room, hands glued to a game controller, stealing virtual cars and going on joy rides and getting into big wrecks.

(Our only option as youngsters was to do this with real cars.) Meanwhile, the parents could be hosting an Elks Club convention downstairs, and he would be oblivious. He wouldn’t notice if a major hurricane were raging outside, so long as he had battery backup when the power went out.

But now someone has come up with the idea of inventing a game on a mobile device where the player has to venture outside in order to play it. In Pokemon GO, a map is superimposed on the display that tells the player where he is. This feature is essential, because many Millenials would be completely lost once they venture outdoors, provided that they can locate the front door and know how to operate it. (I wouldn’t be surprised if the game includes instructions for that.)

Pokemon GO has proved wildly popular, smashing records for number of downloads. However, I don’t know anybody my age that has it. That’s because us Boomers tend to use our mobile devices exclusively for two things. One is to post on Facebook about eve-

ry detail of our grandbabies’ exploits. So we’re treated to 136 pictures of the baby’s first swim along with comments praising the event as if he’s just won an Olympic gold medal. The other is to talk on the phone, which is something that for most of history was the only thing a phone could be used for.

The difference is now, I can conveniently take calls wherever and wherever it’s most convenient, such as in the middle of lunch with a friend who’s prattling through the whole meal about his gall bladder condition.

I think it’s great that our young people finally have an incentive to go out and get some fresh air. I’m only concerned that they won’t care for the quality of everyday, ordinary air if their beer preferences are any indication. Millenials turn their noses up at the ordinary beers like Budweiser and Lone Star that my generation unabashedly cut our livers on. They instead want “craft” beers with fancy labels and names like “Clown Shoes Undead Party Crasher” (a real beer, I kid you not).

But that’s a whole other discussion, and one I need a few Lone Stars to really get into.

Vol. 8 • No. 12

time, playing games, barbequing, taking in nature or just resting while enjoying private thoughts.

I am also a frequent user of the Lake Street Dog Park, located on the west side of the Lake Charles Airport. There was a bond issue some time ago for improvements, but I have yet to see much, other than some mowing and minor repairs to the dog park area of the Lake Street Sports Complex. There was talk of a shade pavilion and other changes but as of this writing, little has been accomplished. I am sure that there will be more projects in As a frequent visitor to Prien Lake the mix for our furry friends. The Park, I want to compliment CalcaWard 3 Recreation District has a sieu Parish for the care that is taken great history of doing well for the to keep one of our favorite parks in citizens it represents and I know the pristine condition. It is rare to see board members are actively workpublic properties kept in the condi- ing to improve things. I encourage tion I see there. The grass is always progress on this project and also mowed and trimmed, there is rarely want to commend the City of Lake any litter, the equipment is kept Charles’ new Dog Park facility, a in great shape and looks fresh, the much-needed and appreciated adrestroom facilities are tended-to and dition in downtown life and consupplied. It is always a pleasure to venience. Those of us dog lovers are visit the park and see so many fami- always looking for things to do with lies and various groups having a fun the furry members of the family.

We Love Our Parks!

Roundabout Working Out The alterations to the Cove Lane Roundabout and I-210 Exit roadways seemed to have solved some of the confusion with the exiting of the Interstate and casino area. The stop signs coming from the casino area make the interplay of vehicles a much more sane mix, allowing a highly noticeable and safer flow. Sometimes, things just have to be tweaked, and experience can be most helpful, as things on paper just don’t give the real life feel. It appears like we have a much better design for all of us that use that set of roads.

Tip for South-Siders Here is a handy bit of information for those living in the south side of Lake Charles and use Lake Charles Memorial Hospital for their laboratory blood work. You can use the Gauthier Road Campus for that purpose, avoiding having to drive across town to the Oak Park Boulevard location, just to get the lab work done.

Easier parking, less wait time and gets the same job done without fighting in town traffic. Clearly, this is a win-win situation for south-siders looking to save time. Just wanted to let you know about it--a “Tip” from Tip.

This pretty girl has had quite a lot to deal with in her short life! She is a Siamese mix and is 8-10 months old. She was found by a Good Samaritan atone of the casinos with her tail torn off. We know she is a trooper because she has been through whatever tore off the tail, a major infection, weeks of laser treatments, and antibiotics. Having received lots of TLC by her foster and now finished with vetting, she is ready to begin a new life. She easily bonds with her person and loves dogs and people and we suspect would be good with a kitty friend. She is an Inside-only cat. We are looking for a very special person for this very special girl. For more information, call or email: (337) 244-4563; lapaw@bellsouth.net.

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October 7, 2016 9

Photos by Chris Romero

Missing In The Marsh My podna Dennis Dunnehoo and I made the trek to the Pavell and Dobbertine heirs marsh again. His blind is past Johnson Bayou (population 389) on Highway 82, northeast of the Sabine Pass Lighthouse, west of Deep Bayou next to the Crane brothers hunting club. Lost yet? Chuckle. For my faithful readers, that’s where the Shawa twins, Aaron and Ariel, had taken me on truly fine hunts twice in 2014. Still lost? No

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matter, we were soon to be, too.

Dennis picked me up at 4 a.m. and an hour later, we arrived at a Cameron Parish launch. We loaded up and launched just fine and sped down the canal, stopping only to open the canal gate into the south end of the marsh.

We took the right into the marsh and headed west to the blind. Sort of.

What we got was a tour of a too-high water marsh. First of all, it’s the dark-

est an hour before dawn even with a flashlight. The water was almost a foot higher than normal. At that level, everything seems to change and you are free to wander where you couldn’t before.

Undaunted, Dennis and I frantically searched for trail markers we thought must be hidden by the high water. At one point, I thought I recognized the area and led Dennis into yet another wrong turn. My bad. After an extensive marsh tour, we began to hear the halfhour-before-sunrise shots north of us even over the outboard’s putt-putt.

A half an hour after daybreak and the best teal shooting time, we gave up our search and pulled the bateau into a tall broad stand of Roseau cane. We tossed out decoys and were soon ready to hunt. Most of the boat was hidden in the cane and the camouflage netting. Soon, a flock of six teal surprised us and flashed over our back and out over the decoys.

Dennis and I reacted with codger un-speed, yet Dennis managed to knock down one blue winged teal.

I should have had one too, Vol. 8 • No. 12

but alas, I shot poorly.

Dennis and I are both tale tellers. As we were absorbed in the latest tale swap, another teal came from Dennis’ right. He had to twist around to shoot as the teal swooped over our head. Dennis missed. As did I. Seems appropriate, as it was an almost got-there, done-it-right day. Nonetheless, we were afield. Both of us were 16 again, laughing and swapping tales.

By 9 a.m. we were through. At least now we could see. Dennis eased us out of the marsh and back to the main canal. We went further than we had in the dark and easily found the trail to the blind and the blind itself. The Shawa twins have some serious brushing of the blind to do before big duck season.

We simply had not gone far enough that morning.

This was not my first lost-in-the marsh rodeo.

Brings to mind some of my favorite lost tales. Roger Burgess, local attorney extraordinaire, got turned around in the fog one day at Lacoste Lodge and informed Dr. Berry that he was going the wrong way to the blind, but it was Roger who was turned around.

Ray Thibodeaux, the lodge prankster, appropriated one of those huge flashing yellow highway arrows and put it at Roger’s turn to his blind. At the landing the next morning, we all could see the arrow flashing from two miles away. Even Burgess was amused.

Then Terry Bergeron, former head coach at Lacassine High School, was sent to hunt a new blind we had built. After the hunt, he bragged how the tank blind and boat hide were marvelously brushed Vol. 8 • No. 12

and the decoy set of over 100 decoys really pulled the birds in. Chuckling, I said, “Terry, our blind was a platform blind with about two dozen decoys.”

Fortunately, Lake Charles attorney Jim Cox, who had the lease south of us, wasn’t hunting that blind that day.

Meanwhile my favorite tale of this genre takes place about ten miles or so east of the Shawa lease and just east northeast of Johnson Bayou on Hamilton Lake behind the Gray Estate’s caretaker house.

Glen Bergeron (Terry’s older brother), myself and McNeese photographer Ron Foreman had loaded in my Jeep along with Glenn’s mastiff-sized yellow Lab Beaux, and my Golden Retriever Prez “The Wonder Dog.” They were all stuffed into the four-seater CJ7 Jeep. Seems we managed to get stuck on top of a small tallow tree on the Chenier ridge on the way to the blind. I’d turned too soon to cross the ridge. So I had to get under the Jeep and saw away with a too-dull pocketknife. The tree in the middle of the bottom of my Jeep rendered the four wheel drive useless. Meanwhile, back in the Jeep, the dogs decided to have a fight in Ron’s lap. Glenn managed to pull Beaux off and the Jeep stopped rocking with me under it. We got to the blind about the same time as Dennis and I had, a half hour after daybreak’s finest shooting time.

Tales aside, all of us who hunt get lost. But we always find the humor in it. And besides, we’re afield one more time. It’s better to be out and lost than not be there at all and home. The epiphany always awaits. Even lost.

Dennis Dunnehoo driving bateau

October 7, 2016 11

By Jason Machulski One thing I look for while out picking are military-type items such as medals, uniforms, hats and art. One of my favorites is what is refer to as “trench art” From matchboxes to elaborate vases to detailed models of airplanes and cars, the list just keeps going. My favorite era of trench art stems from WWI. Let me give you some background on trench art.

The name is a highly evocative term conjuring up the image of a mud-spattered soldier in a soggy trench hammering out a souvenir for a loved one at home while dodging bullets and artillery shells. This is an appealing but very false conception of the reality of this art form. A few types of trench art (finger rings made from melted down aluminum are a good example) could be made easily in a trench during lulls in the fighting, but the hammering involved in making many trench art pieces would have been greeted with unwelcome hostile fire from the enemy.

Trench art items made during the war were in fact created at a distance from the front line trenches either by soldiers at rest behind the front lines, by skilled artisans among the civilian population, by prisoners of war, or by soldiers convalescing from wounds as handicraft therapy.

Soldiers have always made decorative or souvenir objects in their spare time. During the Napoleonic Wars, French prisoners of war interned in British prison camps created a variety of elaborate boxes, models and other pieces made from soup bones as well as marquetry boxes and similar items using plaited straw.

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Trench Art

The Crimean War produced interesting souvenirs such as inkwells made from cannon balls.

Soldiers in the American Civil War decorated powder horns, canteens and snuffboxes with personal and patriotic engravings and fabricated game pieces from bone and spent bullets. Sailors also have rich traditions of creating scrimshaw and needlework pieces.

Projectiles with brass casings, first produced in 1857, replaced cannon balls and other artillery ammunition as the century progressed. The SpanishAmerican War and the Boer War were the first wars in which this type of ammunition was widely used.

Typical shell casing souvenirs from this period were engraved with the details of battles or inscribed as souvenirs of the war or merely shaped into vases to be kept as decorative mementoes.

The First World War, The Great War, The War to End All Wars or The War for Civilization, as it was variously called, evolved into a stagnant form of trench warfare after the initial German invasion into Belgium in 1914. Prolonged entrenchment of troops and a vast supply of the detritus of war provided an ever-expanding canvas for the talents of soldier-artists.

My favorite item to find while out and about scouring the lands is shell art. Decorated shell casings are a main focus of interest among many collectors of trench art. It includes casings from artillery shells of several different calibers for the standard artillery field pieces.

The French and American 75mm, German 77mm, or British 18 pounder guns and the larger 105mm, 155mm and 210mm artillery pieces] and several sizes of naval shells [1pdr, 3pdr, 6pdr] were the most common ones used for making this kind of trench art. Many of the 75m and 77mm shells were sent or brought home for use as flower vases.

The decorative work on these pieces varies widely from crudely punched designs made by amateur soldier-artists to elaborately embossed and engraved pieces made by skilled soldier or civilian artisans. Popular themes included floral designs, animals, patriotic figures, unit identifications, battles and various military images such as airplanes, tanks, and artillery pieces.

Other shells bear personal inscriptions to loved ones.

Some give detailed accounts of a soldier’s service.

The smaller 37mm shell casings were used to produce many of the same decorative effects. They fitted easily into a pocket or kit bag and were much more transportable than the larger shells. The passage of time has obscured the provenance of many of these pieces forever. As these relics of a long-forgotten war are dredged from basements and attics and sold or consigned to secondhand or antique shops or sold at estate sales, these objects are forced to speak for themselves.

Some pieces, with specific names, units, battles and dates are eloquent, but most have drifted so far from their original moorings that it is not possible to determine into which of the above tidy categories they properly fit.

But every piece of trench art is beauty from a battlefield. Since thousands upon thousands of these items were made, the odds are really in your favor while you out and about. What may seem like a metal vase or an ash tray may indeed be a historic work of art. Keep your eyes peeled out there, you just never know what you could find.

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October 7, 2016 13

Have the Destination Wedding of Your Dreams at the Grande St. Lucian Resort with views of the crystal blue waters below. An open-air

By Patricia Landry design invites in the beautiful natural surFor all you love birds contemplating roundings of the tropical island and the tying the knot or already in the throes of cool bay breezes. SIGH. A dream wedwedding and honeymoon planning, let ding indeed! (The Overwater Serenity it be known that legendary Caribbean Chapel would also make for a memorable dream wedding and honeymoon mak“Renewal of Vows” ceremony for couples ers, Sandals, has just upped the bar again who want to recommit and celebrate in the luxury couples-only all-inclusive their marriage by saying their “I Dos” all resort market by recently unveiling their over again.) spectacular new Overwater Serenity Sandals has long been the pinnacle Wedding Chapel at the Grande St. Lucian provider of luxury Caribbean all-incluResort on the island of St. Lucia. sive wedding and honeymoon packages The first ever of its kind on any isand has resorts in St. Lucia, Jamaica, land in the Caribbean, this gorgeous and Antigua, Grenada, Barbados and the Baunique venue boasts spectacular panohamas, but the Grande St. Lucian is often ramic views of Rodney Bay and seats up described as the “closest destination to to 20 guests for an intimate and memoa picture-perfect postcard.” The resort rable occasion. Located at the most is surrounded by some of the calmest southwestern point of the resort, the waters in all of St. Lucia and this magelegant seaside décor within the chapel nificent resort showcases awe-inspiring includes a river stone altar polished with panoramic tropical views that will linger a silver leaf finish and a nature-inspired in your heart and mind forever. aisle lined by three glass floor panels The eastern Caribbean island of St.

Lucia is well-known worldwide for a pair of dramatically tapered mountains on its west coast, the Pitons, that has been photographed and printed in magazines countless times. The island is home to volcanic beaches, reef diving sites, quaint fishing villages and luxury resorts. Lush tropical rain forests, green mountainous terrain and waterfalls cover the interior.

Every beach, including those that are part of the top resorts are open to the public. The beaches on the western side of the island front the tranquil turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and are favored for swimming and water sports, while the wild but beautiful eastern side churns with the more turbulent waters of the Atlantic Ocean, making it great for surf experts and those who like to watch the waves, but perhaps not necessarily swim in it.

Sandals Grand St. Lucian is without a doubt one of the premier properties in all of the Caribbean, and wedding and honeymoon packages are often booked a year or two in advance. Just some of the luxury amenities include: • Beachfront Rondaval Suites • The President Clinton Oceanfront Presidential Suite • Top-tiered suites including Butler service • Romantic fire pits • Nine hole golf course at nearby Sandals Regency La Toc • Unlimited fine dining at 12 restaurants • 6 full service bars including an English Pub • Unlimited premium brand drinks • Unlimited Mondavi wines • 5 pools and 4 whirlpools • Stay at 1, Play at 3 Exchange Program • Unlimited land and water sports • Award-winning Red Lane Spa • Free non-stop round-trip airport transfers • Unlimited scuba diving • Free wi-fi in all rooms and public areas Need more info? Call Travel Partners at (337) 602-6767!

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Vol. 8 • No. 12

Roasted Red Headed Teal

Thank goodness the summer heat is coming to an end and we can start concentrating on important things, like hunting season. If you are fortunate enough to get out and go teal hunting, you may ask yourself, “Now what?” The simple answer is following this easy recipe with a surefire way not to mess up your ducks.

Ingredients 6 teal duck breasts, deboned/halved 6 tablespoons of butter 3 tablespoons of flour 2 cups chicken broth ½ cup white wine ¼ cup chopped parsley 3 cloves minced garlic 1 package mushrooms 2 tablespoons of Cajun Red Head Wild Game Seasoning

Preparation Season teal with Cajun Red Head Wild Game Seasoning and set aside. Melt butter in black iron pot and brown breast halves.

Remove from pot and set aside. Add flour to butter in pot and stir well. Brown slightly. Slowly add chicken broth and sherry. Blend well and pour over teal in separate baking dish. Slice mushrooms, then lightly sauté butter and garlic and toss in with the teal. Add parsley and bake in oven 350 degrees in a covered baking dish.

Serve with rice or quinoa. Enjoy!

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October 7, 2016 15

What ignites something within you? What sets your heart on fire? If you could bottle up that festive feeling, it would come corked and fizzy like sparkling wine. Cheers to you, my friend!

Sip from your bottles and share them with your friends.

My vows would begin with handwritten letters and conversations by sharing my stories in special ways. Designing a life that’s truth, with no filters.

Enjoying the present. Vowing to make a statement as I walk down the aisle to meet my life head on and say “I Do.” I don’t just want sparkle. I want to go big. It is my wedding day when you think about it - so why not dazzle? Turn heads with rich colors, and textured details. Be fun, elegant, edgy and always unexpected.

Saying ‘I Do’ To Love and Adventure

To get the most out of life, you need to get creative and add whatever it is that soothes your soul. How? Create an experience that leaves you in a different state than you started with.

Write your own vows. Think about who you are and what strikes a chord with you. Take the time to create what you want your life to look like. It might be best to do a little research first. Collect pictures. Envision what it is you desire and see what it is that calls to you. Be open. You may be surprised by what you fall in love with.

16 October 7, 2016

All “I DOs” Are Not Created Equal Will you say I DO? Would you like your proposal to be sweet? Now is the time to make sure your dreams are filled with everything for all your happily-ever-afters. I invite you to cre-

ate your collection to complete your dream life.

After all, your wedding is your very own moment to dazzle, so why not be inspired? Reinforce your style and accentuate your best features. Your life is a work of art. You carry layers of meaning filled with memorable art and colorful decor, nature captured in your eyes, traditions flowing through your very essence and an abundance of love.

You are a walking example of beauty for others to behold.

It’s time to rise to the occasion.

Sometimes, it’s what you don’t see that makes the biggest statement.

Now, all you have to do is just let loose and be in the moment--the moment in your very own life. Give all your love to your beautiful life. Discover what really matters. God knows that you are worth it. He will never give up on you. Make a difference in your life.

Don’t give up. You are tuff enough.

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

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Breast Health Be a Survivor, Get Familiar Louisiana is ranked at the top when it comes to breast cancer mortality rates.

It is not because the state has a higher number of cancer patients, but due to the fact that women in the state tend to wait longer to be diagnosed and treated.

All women are at risk for breast cancer, and as you get older, your risk increases.

Researchers estimate that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time in their lives. This means that the average woman has about a 12 to 13 percent risk of developing breast cancer.

However, survival rates keep climbing since diagnosis and treatment has advanced into the digital age. The difference between a digital mammogram and an analog is night and day and starting at age 40, women should have a mammogram every year.

“Your first mammogram is a baseline mammogram which should be done between the ages of 35 and 40,” says Kim Strong, a registered breast specialist at Lake Charles Memorial’s Breast Health Center. “A radiologist reads a mammogram by comparing one year to the other to look for any changes.”

In addition to using all digital radiol-

ogy equipment, Lake Charles Memorial uses computer aided diagnosis or CAD system. This system helps radiologist interpret these medical images. The CAD system will mark suspicious areas on a mammogram image that doctors should take a closer look at.

A woman’s risk of breast cancer approximately doubles if she has a firstdegree relative, such as a mother or sister who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. About 15 percent of women who get breast cancer have a family member diagnosed with it.

Five to 10 percent of breast cancers can be linked to gene mutations inherited from a mother or father. Mutations of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most common. Women with these mutations have up to an 80 percent risk of developing breast cancer during their lifetime, and they are more likely to be diagnosed before menopause.

About 85 percent of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of breast cancer. These occur due to genetic mutations that happen as a result of the aging process and life in general, rather than inherited mutations.

The wave of the future in curing breast cancer is in genetic testing. The BRCA gene test is a blood test that uses DNA analysis to identify possible mutations in either one of the two breast cancer susceptibility genes — BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women who have inherited mutations in these genes face a much higher risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer compared with the general population.

Memorial offers this type of genetic testing, along with consultation and options for women who find they do carry these mutations. These technological advancements help in early detection, which remains the gold standard in treating and beating breast cancer.

“First thing they should do, every woman should do a self breast exam once a month and see doctor for an exam once a year,” Kim Strong says. “They should have a mammogram every year once they hit the age of 40.”

Lake Charles Memorial offers an entire team of doctors, technology and treatment options to fight breast cancer. For more information contact Memorial’s Breast Health Center at (337) 494-4755 or (337) 480-7444.

Tips From the National Cancer Society for Patients Undergoing Chemo Here are a few tips that may help reduce nausea and vomiting if you are getting chemo: • On the days you get chemo, make sure you have had something to eat. Most people find that a light meal or snack before chemo is best.

• In most cases, chemo is given on an outpatient basis, such as in an infusion center or a doctor’s office. Getting chemo can take a few minutes or many hours. Plan ahead and bring a Vol. 8 • No. 12

light meal or snacks with you.

Many treatment centers have refrigerators and microwaves you can use.

• Fatigue is very common when getting chemo. There are some things you can do to deal with it, such as set priorities, pace yourself, ask others to do chores, plan activities when you have the most energy, know your limits, and eat balanced meals.

• Don’t be too hard on yourself if side effects make it hard to eat.

Try eating small, frequent meals or snacks. Choose the foods that appeal to you the most. Your taste can change on an almost day-today basis when you are getting cancer treatment.

• Make the most of days when you feel well and your appetite is good. Try to eat regular meals and snacks, but listen to your body. Never force yourself to eat something that you don’t want, or if you feel full.

• Ask family and friends for

help shopping and cooking. If you don’t have help, think about having meals delivered to your home or maybe having lunch at a local community or senior center.

• Most side effects last a short time and go away when treatment is over. If symptoms last, notify your health care team.

Nutrition-related side effects should be dealt with immediately to help you keep up your weight and energy.

October 7, 2016 17

BigWigs Raise Awareness/Funds for Breast Cancer

The Acadiana Affiliate of Susan G. Komen, which serves Southwest Louisiana, recently revealed seven Lake Charles BigWigs at Blue Dog Cafe in Downtown Lake Charles.

They have committed to raising breast health awareness throughout the month of October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness month.

The BigWigs who will be competing are: Stephen Benoit, VP/ Market Development Manager of Sabine State Bank, Jenny Bono, CFO of Trina Health, Debra Boyles, office manager with the Family Practice Center of Sulphur, Jason Carroll, owner of Monsour’s Photography, Stephen Castleberry, general surgeon with Sulphur Surgical Clinic, Nikka LeBeouf, registered dental Hygienist with Oak Park Dental, and Dolores Hicks, retired administrator from the Calcasieu Parish School System and Golden Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta.

Seventy-five percent of what each BigWig fundraises is invested back into Komen Acadiana’s service area, which was recently was expanded to include Calcasieu, Cameron, Beauregard, Jefferson Davis and Allen Parishes, as well as surrounding communities through local community grants for breast health programs.

18 October 7, 2016

Currently, Komen Acadiana is funding over $204,000 in grants in Acadiana for mammograms, diagnostic screenings, patient navigation services, and transportation, and hopes to make similar grants in Southwest Louisiana. The remaining 25 percent of their net proceeds funds life-saving research through a national research foundation to improve treatment and find cures for breast cancer.

When asked why he decided to be a Big Wig, Dr. Stephen Castleberry answered, “Raising money that will help fund all aspects of fighting breast cancer, from earlier detection to research on treatment breakthroughs, is too exciting to pass up.

Maybe the great wig had a little to do with it too.”

The BigWigs will each host their own profit sharing event at a restaurant during the month of October. A full list of those events can be found at www.komenacadiana.org.

The BigWig campaign will end on November 5 with a party to be announced at a later date.

To learn more about the BigWig campaign, and the work of Komen Acadiana, visit www.komenacadiana. org, and support your favorite BigWig as they compete to be crowned the “Biggest Wig.” Vol. 8 • No. 12

Vol. 8 • No. 12

October 7, 2016 19

L A K E

C H A R L E S

M E M O R I A L

Lymphedema

An Unwelcome Visitor Following Breast Cancer Treatment

Finishing up a successful breast cancer treatment is one of the greatest accomplishments in a survivor’s journey, but we often don’t hear about the lingering side effects that can go along with treatment. One of these side effects is a condition called lymphedema, which can happen months and even years after breast cancer treatment has ended.

20 October 7, 2016

“Lymphedema is a condition many women experience following breast cancer treatment, particularly women who have had lymph nodes under the arm removed, or who have received radiation therapy,” said Kelli Moore, an occupational therapist and lymphedema therapist with Lake Charles Memorial Outpatient Therapy.

“These methods, while

often successful for treating breast cancer, can cause a drainage problem for lymph--the fluid that circulates throughout the body to remove wastes and toxins. This can cause a backup of lymph fluid in certain areas, causing swelling–-typically in the arm and hand.”

While there is no cure for lymphedema once it has begun, there are ways to successfully manage it so that the swelling does not persist, the risk of infection is reduced and the discomfort and disruption to daily life does not continue. As with most medical conditions, the earlier and more mild the lymphedema is at the time treatment begins can help reverse the condition and can mean fewer flare-ups in the future.

“Once patients with lymphedema are referred to us, we begin a treatment called Complete Decongestive Therapy, which is considered to be the gold

standard of treatment for lymphedema,” Moore said.

“This involves four components which include a special massage technique called Manual Lymphatic Drainage, the use of short stretch compression bandages, exercises to promote drainage of the lymph fluid, and instruction in meticulous skin care.”

Moore said the course of treatment for each patient will depend on her individual needs, but an experienced therapist will help keep the swelling in check before it limits function, or worse, causes an infection.

“It is so important that breast cancer survivors educate themselves on ways to reduce their risks of getting lymphedema,” Moore concluded.

For more information on ways to avoid developing lymphedema contact Memorial’s Outpatient Therapy.

If you have had breast cancer treatment and notice swelling in your hand and arm, contact your physician about beginning lymphedema treatment as soon as possible to keep the condition from worsening.

For more information on breast health and cancer awareness, please visit lcmh.com/breasthealth.

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Vol. 8 • No. 12

October 7, 2016 21

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

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

22 October 7, 2016

closer to your best friend.

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

The maid of honor not only organizes and hosts your show-

er, she also helps you get ready on your wedding day. Her dress (which she pays for herself) matches or coordinates with the other bridesmaids, and she usually carries a slightly more elaborate bouquet than the other attendants.

The bridesmaids attend prewedding parties and also help

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

The best man’s formalwear matches the ushers’ and he pays the rental fees himself. He hosts the bachelor party, holds the ring during the ceremony, and offers the toast at the reception.

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

Flower girls are usually between the ages of three and nine, and they carry a small bouquet or basket down the aisle during the ceremony. The ring bearer is of the same age, and symbolically

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carries the wedding rings for the bridal party on a large white satin pillow on which imitation rings are sewn. The real wedding bands are kept in the safekeeping of the best man. Parents pay for their children’s attire when asked to be in a wedding, unless otherwise notified by the bride or groom.

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

You may really want cash instead of gifts, but it’s very tacky to indicate this on the wedding invitation. So have your bridesmaids and family spread the word that you would prefer money. There will always be people who will give a gift, no matter what, so rather than get

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Some Tips to Make Your Wedding Awesome!

something you don’t like, register for what you really need.

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

It may sound obvious, but it’s important to personally greet each and every guest at your wedding. Once the celebration is underway do your best to spend time with each person — whether that means chatting over a cocktail or visiting their table.

Thank You Cards

Ask for Song Requests

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

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

Greet Each Guest

Want to know the best way to get your guests out on the dance floor? Play the songs they actually want to hear! Have your DJ make an announcement that they’ll be taking requests and watch the dance floor fill up when a crowd-favorite comes on.

Create a DIY Bar Whether it’s an outdoor cigar bar, a build-your-own-biscuits bar during cocktail hour, or a sundae bar at dessert, your guests will love making (and eating!) their own treats.

Have a Photo Booth Not only is a photo booth a fun activity for your reception, it’s also a great alternative for your guestbook. The options are literally endless.

Give a Favor People Will Use People really don’t want a framed photo of you and your new husband. If you’re going to spend the money on favors, select something that your guests won’t leave on the table. Mini bottles of bubbly, a snack like cookies or popcorn, or a treat they can enjoy once back at home like jam or syrup are all crowd-pleasers.

October 7, 2016 23

By Lauren Abate

Planning a wedding takes a tremendous amount of time and effort—unless you’re just going to run to a justice of the peace on your lunch hour (don’t laugh—I know a couple who did just that).

A lot of important little things will definitely slip through the cracks if you aren’t diligent. The best way to handle this is to come up with a checklist that you can add to as the months go by. Keep a copy on your computer and a hard copy in your wedding plan-

24 October 7, 2016

ner where you can refer to it when needed.

If you’re planning on wearing an heirloom gown, make sure you have plenty of time to have it cleaned and freshened, and make sure it fits well.

I wanted to wear my mother’s gown, and was so disappointed that it was too tight. I tried to find a way to make it fit, but ultimately realized that I was better off buying a new gown. I did wear her wedding earrings, as my “something old.”

Practice wearing your wedding shoes before the big day. There’s nothing worse than wearing tight shoes for hours and hours—it will seriously ruin your fun. I’ve seen

brides take off their shoes and end up dancing barefoot, which isn’t very classy. I chose a very simple style that was really comfortable. No one really sees your shoes, anyway. If you insist on wearing killer shoes, make sure they don’t kill you first!

Send lodging information to your out-of-town guests as soon as possible. If you’re having a destination wedding, then you and your guests will probably all stay in the same place, which will make things a lot easier. We got married at an old Victorian inn and just about everyone stayed with us, which was so much fun!

If you’re going to have an outdoor wedding, take bugs and the

weather into consideration. Have lots of bottled water on hand for the heat, umbrellas (or Plan B for rain) and don’t forget the bug spray. We were married outdoors in the mountains of New Hampshire in May, and we really took a chance—we could have had rain, snow, cold, heat—you name it. We ended up with a gorgeous sunny day in the ‘70s. Yes, we were very lucky!

Be sure to get a good night’s sleep before the wedding. Let’s face it, you’re going to be a little stressed to begin with, and you don’t want to be exhausted on top of everything else. And you don’t want dark circles under your eyes, either.

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Make sure you pack a small emergency bag for your dressing area that includes a portable steamer, needle and thread, hair spray, aspirin, nail polish, deodorant, safety pins, extra panty hose, etc. You’ll be glad you did!

Try to have a light snack before leaving for the ceremony. Many brides never taste the food at their reception, but go overboard on the champagne, which could complicate things, to say the least.

It’s important to have something in your stomach.

Don’t forget to have a guest register at the reception, and assign someone who’s not in the wedding party as the attendant.

It’s been proven that if you leave the register unattended, not many guests will sign it. That’s exactly what happened at our wedding, unfortunately.

Ask your bridesmaids to place their bouquets on the head table as additional decoration. They’ll be happy that they don’t have to hang on to them during the celebration, and it will make the head table look even more special.

Arrange for a close friend or

relative to transport the gifts that are delivered to the reception to a designated spot after the wedding.

It won’t hurt to leave your honeymoon itinerary with a family member, just in case.

Have your gown cleaned soon after the wedding. Stains that may not be visible now may yellow later, and set in the fabric. Many brides have their gowns preserved professionally, but you can also do it yourself if you follow these instructions: Gowns are best stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Stuff any shaped or fitted parts of your wedding dress with acid-free tissue paper to help retain the shape and prevent creasing—which stretches the fibers in your dress and may permanently mar the gown’s fabric.

Decide whether you are going to hang your dress or store it in a box. If you use a box, make sure you wrap your gown in acid-free tissue, and that the box is acidfree cardboard. If you’re going to hang it, then wrap the dress in a clean white sheet.

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

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

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

Ceremony venues. The most budget friendly venues for your ceremony may be your reception hall.

While you may pay a fee for your ceremony on-site, you will eliminate transportation costs, travel fees from vendors for multiple locations and site rental fees.

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

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October 7, 2016 25

Bridesmaid Gift Shopping Tips Your bridesmaids are your closest friends who have always been there for you. And now, they will be beside you on your biggest day. A thoughtful gift should be both a wedding remembrance and a token of appreciation for their time and efforts.

In the months leading up to your celebration, keep an eye out for fantastic finds. You might encounter a great off-season sale or find something cute when you’re running around in your bridal haze.

When to Get Them

What to Spend

Shopping for bridesmaid gifts doesn’t have a specific timeline, but it’s better to buy them sooner rather than later, preferably one to two months before the wedding. (The last thing you want to do the week before your wedding is shop for presents!)

There are two things to consider when it comes to buying gifts for your wedding party: What amount will your budget allow?

And what are they spending on you?

The first question is obviously the most im-

portant. Spend what you can, remembering that it’s really how thoughtful the gift is that counts.

But think about what you’ve been asking financially of your bridesmaids.

If they are shelling out money on an expensive dress, shoes, hotel room, etc., not to mention shower and wedding presents and even plane tickets, then you need to spring for something nice—perhaps something in the $75-$150 price range.

Note that the maid/matron of honor should typically receive a nicer gift than the others, since it’s her responsibility to coordinate the shower and the bachelorette party. And you don’t need to spend as much on your flower girls and junior bridesmaids.

When to Give Bridesmaid gifts are often handed out at the rehearsal dinner, when your closest friends and family are all together. Usually,

26 October 7, 2016

you make a toast in front of everyone thanking your maids, and then you present each of them with their gifts.

But you can also distribute gifts at breakfast on the day of the wedding (or during a similarly private moment) where you and your ladies can have some downtime together.

What to Give There are a few points to consider when choosing your bridesmaid gifts. What works for one person might not work for another. Don’t feel as though you have to get everyone the same present. Think about giving each bridesmaid a different gift, but all within the same price range. That way, each girl will know that you took the time to pick out something just for her.

Make sure your gift is timeless and functional.

While jewelry to be worn at the wedding is a nice gift, chances are that it may not get much wear.

So, take the “Would I Want It?” test. Stop to think if it’s something that you would like to receive, while keeping the individual lady in mind. As the wedding industry grows, so do the gift choices.

Happy hunting!

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If you’re having a makeup artist do your bridal makeup, schedule a practice day to ensure that you’re happy with your final choices. By the way, make sure you use waterproof mascara!

General skin exfoliation provided by good facials removes dead skin cells from your face and makes your skin glow. Choose a salon and start getting facials every five weeks from now until the wedding day.

You shouldn’t get a facial on the actual day of any event, including your wedding or rehearsal dinner. Your face is abnormally flushed immediately following a facial. To be on the safe side, allow at least a week between a facial and any special event.

To avoid the signs of a new hairdo, have your hair cut and colored two to three weeks before the wedding. Whatever you do, don’t wait until a couple of days before the big day.

Sometimes, it can take longer than that to fix major hairstylist mistakes.

Give yourself plenty of time to get your hair and makeup ready on your special day.

You don’t want to be rushed when you’re trying to look your best. Keep a little bag of cosmetics handy that includes your lipstick

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and gloss, extra foundation, and powder so that you can do quick touch-ups throughout the day.

Deodorant Goes with out saying. If you’re ever going to sweat, this is the day.

Wedding Emergency Kit Every bride needs one. Gather all this stuff together in a bag or small case and entrust it to your maid of honor or other responsible party. It can be kept in the bride’s room; just know where it is in case you need it.

Mints You’ll be meeting people all day and night, so have them handy.

Fashion Tape This is basically a double-stick tape made for fabric and skin. Use it to tape down your strapless gown (to keep it from slipping) or to keep bra straps from showing. It’ll even fix a ripped hemline so that you don’t have to fuss with safety pins.

Prescription Meds The last thing you need is to forget necessary medication.

Hair Spray You’ll need it for a finishing touch, or to refresh your hair between the ceremony and reception.

Bobby Pins You’ll need them if your up-do starts wilting.

Pain Relievers Stress headache, anyone?

Tissue Emotions will be running high!

Extra Earring Backs All you need is to have an earring fall out right before the ceremony.

Nail Polish Remover If you chip a nail, it’s good to have a bottle of your polish on hand for touch-ups.

Got it? Great! Now enjoy your wedding!

October 7, 2016 27

LC

SYMPHONY’S

2016-17

SEASON

BEGINS

Twenty Minutes with Maestro Bohuslav Rattay

By Justin Morris “When I was 20, I didn’t listen to classical music every day. I was a kid, and even though I played music, I didn’t take it as seriously as I do today. But I matured. It’s just like going to museum and looking at a gorgeous painting. At 20 I was like ‘Eh… okay fine. Some color, some blah, blah, blah…’ It wasn’t that interesting. But, today, I’ve experienced life and matured a little bit and I can definitely appreciate it much more. I think that’s one of the reasons why the audiences of classical music are a little older. As human beings, we need to mature into a real appreciation of some of these things.”

Classical music is not a hip and happening thing, yet in any city, even of moderate size, you will hear live performances of the works of Brahms, Beethoven, Bach and more, year in and year out. This fact is not lost on a Czech-born bassoonist who has wielded the baton for the Lake Charles Symphony Orchestra for the last six years. That man is Bohuslav Rattay.

In 2010, Rattay assumed the podium and baton once held by longtime LCS Conductor Maestro William Kushner.

It was Kushner himself who first hired the young bassoonist in his earliest days of orchestral playing.

“Becoming the musical director here in Lake Charles was a bit of a homecoming for me, “ Rattay says. “When I first came from Prague, Lake Charles was the first town I came to, so Lake Charles (and McNeese) was, for me, the first community in the United States that I became part of. And then I left for Houston for school. After 20 years, coming back to Lake Charles to be the musical director for my first symphony was pretty special. Mr. Kushner, who recently passed, was the first one to give me a playing job in the United States, so it’s very much a homecoming for me.”

Rattay says he loves Louisiana. “The people…they’re the sweetest, and very accommodating and helpful. Just cool, good, down-to-earth people. And not to mention the food… so there are a lot of reasons why I like coming to 28 October 7, 2016

Lake Charles,” he laughs.

And “coming to” Lake Charles is no hyperbole. Our beloved maestro is very much on the go and serves not only the musical patrons of the Lake City, but he is also the musical director for the Midland Symphony in Michigan and, most recently, of the El Paso Symphony as well. After spending two-plus decades in the classical music business, I asked him why. Why did he chase a baton, of all things and why do classical musicians continue to study, pursue, play and love this kind of music despite the fact that it’s not “cool?”

“This music has been around for a couple of hundred years at least, so there must be some value if people still want to listen to it,” he says.

“You’re right, though. Young kids don’t search out that music unless they have listened to it from the very start by their parents or something.

That’s why exposure and education are so important. But I look at it this way : Yes, classical music audiences are older, but I think it’s like a good wine.

It takes a while for a person to mature into being able to appreciate things that they just couldn’t when they were younger. It takes a while, even for a musician like myself.”

And while Rattay recognizes that these are reasons younger audiences don’t necessarily gravitate towards such music, he has made it accessible to young minds through the educational efforts he has adamantly supported, along with the pieces he chooses for his orchestra to perform.

A perfect example is the inaugural offering of the Lake Charles Symphony 2016-17 season, which will take place on Sunday, October 9 at 3 p.m. at the Rosa Hart Theatre. The first concert will feature Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 in A major, Op. 92, followed by Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf.”

“We are starting with Beethoven, but it’s a Sunday afternoon concert and we are want to bring out the kids, so we will be doing “Peter and the Wolf ” by Prokofiev as well,” Rattay says. “We are hoping that kids will come out for that and we can play Beethoven for them so we can introduce them to the real symphonic

world. That is going to be a lot of fun.”

Even more exciting, the students of the Francis G. Bulber Youth Orchestra will be joining the Symphony for “Peter and the Wolf.”

The next event of the season will be an exciting chamber strings offering taking place at the old Calcasieu Marine Bank Building on Ryan Street on Sunday, February 5 (prior to the Champagne and Chocolate Party) at 3 p.m. This fantastic lineup will feature Edvard Grieg’s Holberg Suite, Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings” and the lovely “Serenade for Strings” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. To wrap up an already beautiful symphonic season, LCS will close with Trevor Jones’ “Last of the Mohicans” (featuring a surprise guest conductor) and then Rattay will resume the podium to tackle Robert Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor (Opus 56) and the ever challenging ‘Enigma Variations” by Edward Elgar.

“That’s very challenging work for the orchestra but, you know, we have to push the orchestra to get better and that’s what makes it great,” Rattay explains.

The brief time I had to spend with the maestro was enlightening, to say the least, and it also confirmed a passion for music and a deep love for this community that compels this talented young conductor to continue to invest in the musical future of Southwest Louisiana and that, to me, is certainly something worth writing about.

Maybe one day, I’ll have a chance to sit with Bohuslav and jam out some Queen and talk about the majesty of Freddie Mercury or maybe kick back on some Thelonious Monk or pass some time spinning Mile’s Davis’ “Kind of Blue.” Even If I don’t, I now have a better understanding of the mind behind the maestro and the man that is now behind the magic of The Lake Charles Symphony. From that, I take with me a new appreciation for a talent and a spirit whose love for this community is matched only by his love of classical music and for that, we thank you, Maestro, and we sit with bated breath waiting for your next downbeat.

Bravo, Sir. Bravo…

Vol. 8 • No. 12

Movies Under the Stars Fridays in October

Memory Walk for Alzheimer’s October 8

Calcasieu residents are invited to three family friendly movies at Prien Lake Park and one movie at Mallard Junction Park, when Movies Under the Stars returns this October. Oct. 7 – (Mallard Junction Park) Angry Birds, Oct. 14 – (Prien Lake Park) Remember the Titans. October 21 – (Prien Lake Park) Zootopia. October 28 – (Prien Lake Park) In Hotel Transylvania 2. Each movie begins at dusk around 8:00 p.m. The first movie, “Angry Birds” will screen at Mallard Junction Park, located at 599 August Street, in Lake Charles. The remaining three movies will screen at Prien Lake Park, located at 3700 West Prien Lake Road in Lake Charles. Admission is free to the public. Patrons may bring their own food or purchase on-site. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. In case of inclement weather, the event will be canceled.

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s™ is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. The event opens at the outdoor Amphitheater stage on Lakeshore Dr. at 9 a.m. with check-in/registration. Opening ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m.; 2 Mile Walk around the Civic Center begins at 10 a.m. There will also be a Jambalaya Cook-off! For more information, go to www.alz.org/walk.

Lake Charles Film Festival October 7-9 The Lake Charles Film Festival is an annual event that brings the best of independent film and video to Calcasieu Parish, and spotlights and awards the achievements of the filmmakers behind these films. Enjoy three days of independent film screenings, seminars and workshops on filmmaking, acting, and screenwriting, celebrity appearances, parties, Cajun food, live music, and much more! For more information, go to www.lakecharlesfilmfestival.com.

Vinton Heritage Festival October 8 Crafts, door prizes and food vendors will be in abundance at the Vinton Heritage Festival along with exciting activities, rides and games and of course, Gumbeaux Gator. The festivities will be held from 9 a.m.–9 p.m. downtown at the corners of Center and Horridge Streets. Lawn chairs are welcomed; however coolers and alcohol are not permitted.

For festival information, contact Vinton City Hall at (337) 589-7453 or webmaster@cityofvinton.com.

Lake Charles Symphony Concert October 9 The first concert of the Symphony’s season will present a side-by-side performance of the Symphony and the Francis G. Bulber Youth Orchestra performing Peter and the Wolf followed by Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7. The concert will be held from 3- 4 p.m. at the Rosa Hart Theatre at the Lake

and noon and are limited to 20 children, ages 3 and up.

Saturday, Oct. 8: Sasol’s Second Saturday Science Show Sasol continues its 5S Project with “Photons: Lighting the Way since the Beginning” at 11:30 a.m. Travis Corbello will demonstrate how light behaves with refraction, reflection, and distortion. He will also show kids how an infinity mirror works!

Monday, Oct. 10: Frankenstein We are making a Frankenstein! Classes begin at 11 a.m.

Saturday, Oct. 15: Kid’s Choice This is a workshop to use extra projects that were leftovers from previous workshops and weekly projects. Projects will be available from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on a first-come first-served basis.

Limit one project per child. *The museum will close at 4 p.m. for Chuck Fest downtown.

Monday, Oct. 17: Witches Create a scary or funny witch using paint and a fork from 11 a.m.-noon in the ArtSpace.

Monday, Oct. 17: Homeschool Day The museum is a great place to explore and learn through play! If you are homeschooling, join us from

10 a.m.-2 p.m. for a chance to interact with others doing the same. Admission is $6.50 per person with a homeschool ID. Saturday, Oct. 22: Dr. Dogs Join us at 11:30 a.m. and meet the Dr. Dogs Pet Therapy Team! These therapy dogs have wonderful temperaments that provide comfort and affection to people in stressful situations. The group volunteers at retirement and nursing homes, hospitals, McNeese State University, Calcasieu Parish schools, counseling centers and various community events.

Saturday, Oct. 29: Jack-o-Lantern Make a foam jack-o-lantern. Classes begin at 11 a.m. and noon and are limited to 20 children, ages 3 and up.

Monday, Oct. 31: Halloween Make a foam jack-o-lantern. Class begins at 11:30 a.m. and is limited to 20 children, ages 3 and up. *The museum will CLOSE at 4:30 p.m. to allow our staff time for trick-or-treating! Have a happy and safe Halloween!

The Children’s Museum is located at 327 Broad Street, downtown Lake Charles. Museum hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Admission is $8.50 for children and adults. Admission applies to all workshops and activities. Call (337) 433-9420 or visit www.swlakids.org.

30 October 7, 2016

Vol. 8 • No. 12

October 8 CPSB Wellness Expo Lake Charles Boston Alumni Reunion Phi Beta Sigma Ball Class of 2006 Barbe High School Reunion Walk to end Alzheimer’s October 9 Lake Charles Symphony #1 Peter and the Wolf Old Fashion Political Rally October 10 CPSB Early Childhood In –Service October 11 Dept of children and Family Services Town Hall Meeting October 12 Annual Empowerment Conference October 13,14 Bring Back the Glory

October 12 Coastal Protection and Restoration Meeting October 13 McNeese Tip Off Banquet Community Professional Development Seminars October 14 Community Inclusion Dance October 15 Ethel Precht Breast Cancer Walk October 20 Women’s Annual Fall Conference October 22 Arts Fest Culture Fest Muscular Dystrophy Walk October 27 Chem Expo October 29 Ladies Night Out w/ Lyfe Jennings and Will Downing October 31 Harvest Fest

Charles Civic Center Admission: $25 Adults, $20 Active St. in downtown Lake Charles. For more information visit Military & Students (includes college and trade schools with www.chuckfestla.com. valid ID). www.lcsymphony.com, (337) 433-1611.

Cal-Cam Fair October 10-16 Sulphur’s annual Cal-Cam Fair brings in an average of 30,000 visitors each year, and features everything from carnival rides to a livestock show. Judges also award top prizes in food, baked goods and arts and crafts contests.

The fair offers good food and plenty of fun carnival rides, games and attractions for both children and adults, along with bands and other entertainment, as well as beauty pageants and wildlife exhibits. Call (337) 527-9371 for more information.

Women’s Commission Fall Conference October 20 The women’s conference is a fun-filled day for all women! Experience 25 incredible empowering workshops, a huge market place, door prize extravaganza, catered lunch, professional luncheon entertainment and keynote speaker,

Ragley Heritage and Timber Festival October 15 Don’t miss the 18th annual Ragley Heritage and Timber Festival on Sat., Oct. 15 at the Historical Square Pavilion, 6715 Hwy 12 in Ragley beginning at 10 a.m. There will be bands/music, quilters, corn grinding, wood making, antique cars and tractors on display, along with all kinds of delicious food!. Kids will enjoy train rides, a petting zoo, illusion shows, balloon animals, wagon rides, and fun jumps.

The cost is $5 per car. For more information, call (337) 725-3324.

Chuck Fest Music Festival October 15 On Oct. 15, Chuck Fest will showcase some local and regional artists spanning from New Orleans to Baton Rouge, to right here in the Chuck. Presenting a broad spectrum of works from Zydeco/Cajun bands, to alternative rock n’ roll, to progressive reggae, to classic country, folk-pop and electronic dance, Chuck Fest will be a full day of exciting performances, incredible food, and unique vendors on Ryan Vol. 8 • No. 12

October 7, 2016 31

actress, singer and stage director Ms. Phylicia Rashad! Will be held at the LC Civic Center Thurs., Oct. 20 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission is $40. (337) 309-0807.

Culture Fest October 22 This international celebration of cultures will showcase the arts, music, dance, fashion, food and storytelling of all of the different countries represented in Southwest Louisiana. This is a free family event and will also have several events for children. Will be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. (337) 409-9636.

Big Bang Classic October 22 Kiwanis Club of Lake Charles will host its 3rd Annual Spooktacular Big Bang Classic on Sat. Oct. 22. Held at the Lake Charles Gun Club, it will benefit local non-profits such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of SWLA, Boy’s Village, and CARC Aktion Club of SWLA. Registration begins at 8 a.m., followed by the first flight at 9 a.m. and the second flight at 12:30 p.m. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Teams and individuals can obtain a registration form at www. bigbangclassic.com or by contacting Steve Ek at (337) 4741622 or Jim Meyer at (337) 853-1820. Registration is $100 per shooter and $400 per team of four. The Lake Charles Gun Club is located at 6601 Ward Line Road, Lake Charles.

Memory Chorale Concerts October 21, 23 Masterworks Chorale of the Louisiana Choral Foundation will begin its 40th season with two fall concerts under the direction of Dr. Darryl Jones. They will be performed in the sanctuary of the University United Methodist Church of Lake Charles on Friday, October 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, October 23 at 3 p.m. The concerts will include four American folk hymns arranged by Mack Wilberg and the focal point of the concert will be a major work, “Requiem for the Living” by American composer, Dan Forrest. This work will be accompanied by an instrumental chamber ensemble and soprano and tenor solos. Tickets ($15) for adults (children and students with ID free) are available at Swicegood Music (337)477-2704 or at the door. Check us on Facebook or website lachoral.org.

ArtsFest October 22 Arts Fest engages area children in a free arts festival 32 October 7, 2016

hosted annually by the Arts Council of SWLA and the City of Lake Charles. Local businesses and civic groups host booths with art projects, and activities include live music, food, hands-on pottery lessons, educational exhibits, tug of wars, caricature drawings and interactive demonstrations on stage. Will he held at the Civic Center from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Oct. 22. For more information, call (337) 439-2787.

Ribbons of Gold Childhood Cancer Event October 28 This evening of fun, food, music and live and silent auctions will be held at the West Cal Event Center Oct. 28.

Silent auction starts at 6 p.m., meal served at 7, live auction with Hal McMillin, starts at 8. Proceeds will benefit the Colors for a Cause ~ Louisiana Childhood Cancer Awareness and Family Assistance programs. Tickets are $30 per person, $50 per couple. For more information go to www. colorsforacause@gmail.com and click on the Ribbons of Gold Dinner Auction tab.

OctoBARfest Gumbo & Chili Cook-off October 29 The Young Lawyer Section of the Southwest Louisiana Bar Association is proud to host the Inaugural OktoBARfest Gumbo & Chili Cook-off on Sat., October 29 from 1-5 p.m. in beautiful downtown Lake Charles. The event will feature gumbo and chili provided by law firm competitors, cold beer and wine, live music, and will be open to the public.

Proceeds benefit the Young Lawyer’s Holiday Helping Hands Program, which provides Christmas gifts to children in need. Will be held from 1-5 p.m.; admission is $10. (337) 439-0707.

2016 ICCS Panther Run October 29 The 2016 Immaculate Conception Cathedral School Panther Run is scheduled for Sat., Oct. 29, and will feature a 5K, 10K and 1-Mile Color Run. The 5K and 10K races will begin at 7:30 a.m. at ICCS, located at 1536 Ryan Street in Lake Charles. The 1-mile Color Run will start at approximately 8:30 a.m. Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers in the 5K and 10K races. Cost is $25 for the 10K and 5K races and $20 for the 1-mile Color Run. On-line registration is available at register.cajuntiming.com. Participants must register by Oct. 14 to receive a guaranteed race day shirt. Proceeds benefit the ICCS PTO. For more information, call (337) 433-3497.

Vol. 8 • No. 12

Vol. 8 • No. 12

October 7, 2016 33

The Magnificent Seven (MGM, 2016) Westerns are a special category of movie. They have a heritage and plenty of standards they have to live up to. Many of these are now politically incorrect. So when a remake of a classic, largerthan-life shoot-’em-up comes along, I tend to cringe.

The Magnificent Seven happily lopes through the challenges of making a Western today and ends up being harmless fun. As far as a movie where almost everyone dies a violent death can be called harmless. But it’s a Western.

The town of Rose Creek

34 October 7, 2016

is home to a gold mine owned

by Bogue Mining. Mr. Bogue is our sniveling little villain who forces the landowners to sell their property to him for $20 a parcel, killing several men in the process. One of these men is THE husband of Emma Cullen (Haley Bennett) who enlists bounty hunter Sam Chisolm (Denzel Washington) to get their land back.

Chisolm enlists six other men to help him. They expect to fight against unbelievable odds, as Bogue will stop at nothing to keep his mines.

Director Antoine Fuqua stacks the seven up as a diverse group including a Korean, an American Indian, an African American, and a Mexican to create a remarkable group of hired guns. The whole movie is a lesson in how to be inoffensive while killing more people than most war and disaster movies. (Sam Chisolm: “So, are you seeking to make things right, or just revenge?” Emma Cullum: “I don’t know if things can be set right. But I’m willing to settle for revenge.”)

To defeat Bogue, Chisolm and his men recruit the entire town of Rose Creek, including the preacher, the women, and farmers. This is where the movie goes from being amusing to comical, as none of the townspeople can shoot the side of a barn. Still, Chisolm aims to get rid of Bogue or die trying.

OK, so this is what you have to realize: there is no way that seven halfway reasonable men would risk their lives against incredible odds for a claim to some gold. This is just beyond believable. The director doesn’t even try to make this plausible and in the end, who really cares? The point is not to have a credible story, it’s to have the biggest gunfight ever filmed.

And in this Fuqua does

not disappoint.

Amidst a whole slew of good actors, I think Ethan Hawke, as Ex-cavalryman Goodnight Robicheaux, stands out. Goodnight’s actions are questionable early on in the film and the baggage he carries shows in his face and demeanor. As a battle-worn soldier, today he’d probably be diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Another standout is Haley Bennett as Emma Cullen, the feisty redhead who never killed anyone but is willing to do what has to be done.

Denzel Washington has worked with Director Fuqua before (in Training Day) and carries the movie as a strong lead who manages to keep his wild team organized against Bogue and his men.

The Magnificent Seven has a simple plot, yet has enough going on to keep things from bogging down at any time. These gunfighters have so much badassery going on that you just can’t keep up with it all as they use knives, bows and arrows, even hatchets along with their guns to fight evil Bogue.

As far as Westerns go, this movie lives up to expectations.

As a movie, it’s not too shabby either. The Magnificent Seven is rated PG-13 for raining bullets and scenes of death. Leave the young kids at home. Enjoy!

Vol. 8 • No. 12

Counting the Days While My Mind Slips Away You have a job, go to work, and there are things you expect for it.

A paycheck, first of all; that’s the big one. You might expect a job title, too, maybe a company car, and you expect regular hours. But, as in Counting the Days While My Mind Slips Away by Ben Utecht with Mark Tabb, you don’t expect work to make your life disappear.

One of the earliest recollections Ben Utecht cherishes is that of playing football with his father, a preacher with a good arm. In that memory, Utecht, suited up in tiny protective gear, was four years old and eager to learn the game.

They were Minnesota Vikings fans then; growing up, Utecht recalls trips to training camps and following his teams. Meanwhile, he matured physically and mentally and excelled at high school football which, at 16 paid off: he was offered a college scholarship, and a chance to play with the Minnesota Gophers.

But the college career Utecht dreamed of having didn’t happen: he was injured, injured, and injured again.

Vol. 8 • No. 12

He played football, but not as much or as well as he needed to play and when it was time for the NFL drafts, he wasn’t picked.

Throughout this, Utecht struggled with his relationship with God, but a shared-faith connection with Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy saved Utecht’s career. Keeping a promise made at a speaking event, Dungy called Utecht’s agent in the days following the draft and a deal was brokered.

But, says Utecht, this isn’t a book about football.

Five times throughout his career, Utecht suffered concussions. It was common, he says, for players to get their “bell rung.” When that happened, they’d usually be quickly examined, deemed fit to play, and sent back to the field – but for Utecht, the damage seemed to build. Playing with pain is normal in football, but he had terrible headaches, his body didn’t always respond to his brain, important memories went missing, and his personality changed.

He started to understand that the old Ben Utecht wasn’t coming back.

Though it’s a little on the rough side, and though it’s filled with obviously recreated conversations presented as truth, Counting the Days While My Mind Slips Away is really quite a nice surprise.

In this book that’s supposedly not about football, author Utecht (with Mark Tabb) writes mostly about football.

That’s not unexpected but how it’s approached is: though the game’s a large part of this story, the authors seem to treat it as just another small layer to Utecht’s life. There’s some name-dropping, yes, playby-plays, and a light touch of proper bragging, but it all strongly supports the rest of this faith-based, love-filled tale

of trust (justified and otherwise) and family.

Readers interested in the seamy side of football or the aftermath of injuries will find this book to be eye-opening, but if you’re not a fan, don’t let its sports-centricity scare you off. Even someone with the tiniest pigskin familiarity will find Counting the Days While My Mind Slips Away to be payday.

“Counting the Days While My Mind Slips Away”

by Ben Utecht with Mark Tabb ©2016, Howard Books $26/ $35 Canada 272 pages October 7, 2016 35

L A K E

C H A R L E S

F I L M

&

M U S I C

F E S T I V A L

rs e k a m ie v o M d n a rs e o g ie v o M l Loca

by Julie Ann Fay A question I get asked a lot when I mention the upcoming Lake Charles Film & Music Festival is if the fest is more for people who like to watch movies or if it’s for people who like to make movies. And the answer is both! Film buffs and filmmakers can look forward to hanging out together, catching some flicks and learning new moviemaking tricks at this year’s fest taking place October 7-9. Different activities take place at different venues, so let’s take a sneak peek at what you can expect at this year’s movie extravaganza!

First up, anyone who loves to listen to a little live music while rubbing elbows with fans and filmmakers will want to attend the Kick Off Party taking place Friday, October 7 at My Place American Pub. You’ll get to rock out to the tunes of David Locklear and LOOKS:that:KILL from 7 p.m. to midnight while getting to know your fellow festivalgoers. Last year, I met folks all the way from Los Angeles and Minnesota and bonded over tales of taming live wolves and drive-in movies.

On Saturday, October 8 from 8 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. inside Central School, movies duke it out to win the coveted Scallywag award (the Cajun Oscar) and filmmakers learn how to make

36 October 7, 2016

Celebrate Together!

movies that may be low in budget but huge in emotional impact!

Maybe you’re more of a movie watcher than a movie maker. This year’s films are a buzz in original ideas.

One of which is a 1950sstyle monster movie called Weresquito: Nazi Hunter.

Yes, the hero turns into a man-squito during a full moon. Lucky for us, he’s not interested in our blood, he’s out for revenge against the Nazis whose experiments turned him into a monster.

The film may look like June Cleaver land, but it was made on a shoestring budget this year and features an all-original story by director Christopher R. Mihm.

All of the movies screened at the festival are unique in that they are made by directors who make movies for the sheer joy of it. You won’t find these films at Cinemark (yet) or in Redbox (yet) but if they become famous, you’ll be able to say “I saw it before seeing it was cool.”

Some of the films at the fest include Two Bellmen, about two of the best bellmen in the hotel business who try to outwit each other until a group of art thieves plans a heist at their hotel.

Bedtime puts a creepy twist on the childhood tale of a monster in the closet. Business Unusual pits an ad exec against the overbearing boss he worked for as an intern.

French Kiss whisks us off to France for a little romance that’ll have you searching for the perfect red coat. Some local SWLA faces can be seen in Liberty Waning, a satire that includes a blind eyewitness and a hand-cuffed weapon. Yes, those aren’t typos. These are just a few of the films movie fans can look forward to watching and rooting for at the awards ceremony held that evening.

Did you know that there was recently a featurelength movie that screened at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival not long ago?

These days, almost anyone has the equipment to make a movie. The trick is to make one that’s entertaining and emotionally engaging. A big part of those emotions come from great acting, and local actors will be able to take an acting for film and

TV workshop with professional actor Dean West. The class will focus on how to be authentic on camera, which is often a bit different from what you might have been taught in theatre class.

Are you ready to channel your inner superhero? Another workshop which may interest actors and filmmakers alike is the “High Octane Stunt Panel.” Three Louisiana stuntmen and women who have worked on big blockbusters share what it’s really like to do stunts on Hollywood films.

And remember the Weresquito movie I mentioned earlier? Well, you can learn how this full-length feature film was made on a ramen noodle budget and get all your questions answered by award-winning writer/director Christopher R. Mihm. The king of “new,

Vol. 8 • No. 12

old, good, bad” drive-in style movies, Mr. Mihm has made 11 movies in 11 years, and is ready to share his secrets of low budget movie production.

If you’ve been making movies a while and wish it was easier to find funding, you’ll want to take the high budget film production workshop with actor/director Larry Carrell. He’ll explain what works and what doesn’t in fundraising and self-distribution gleaned from his own experiences filmmaking in Texas.

Finally, if you adore movie art and how it’s changed over the years, you’ll love film historians Ed and Susan Poole’s poster collecting and Louisiana history workshop. Learn how Louisiana was used in Hollywood films back during Hollywood’s golden years and experience some epic movie poster art in the process.

The awards ceremony for the festival takes place after all the screenings and workshops are done inside the Central School theatre at 6 p.m. Afterwards, festivalgoers are invited to celebrate their wins and discuss the day’s activities at the wrap party in My Place American Pub while listening to the New Orleans band Hollyrock from 9 p.m. to midnight.

If all of this sounds like fun but you just couldn’t decide between watching a film or taking a workshop, all of the first place winners will be screened on Sunday, October 9 at Tipitina’s from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tickets are still available at http://lakecharlesfilmfestival.ticketleap.com A VIP ticket to attend all three days plus eat in the VIP

Vol. 8 • No. 12

lounge and get into all parties is $25. For more infor-

mation, go to www.lakecharlesfilmfestival.com.

Until next time, see you at the festival!

October 7, 2016 37

meet the inkling girl

By Danny Allain

DA: How long have you been creat-

ing?

I recently had the opportunity to sit down and talk with Morgan Allain, a local artist who just happens to be my lovely wife. Here is my attempt to pick her artistic brain.

MA: I’ve always been interested in art, but I’ve steadily worked since my early teens taking commission work. I think I did my first portrait when I was about 14, and my first mural when I was 17.

Danny Allain: Can you tell me a little about what you do?

Morgan Allain: I paint things! I work primarily with watercolor, but I like to add ink and color pencil to my paintings to add depth and detail.

DA: Your artwork ranges from portraits to pop art to abstract designs to jewelry. What process is your favorite?

MA: I love painting and sketching, but I also really enjoy making my artwork wearable in jewelry. It’s all connected, re-

38 October 7, 2016

ally. Each process leads to the next, so it’s a full-circle kind of thing.

DA: You are known as “The Inkling

Girl.” Where did the name come from?

MA: I’ve always been a big fan of C.S. Lewis, and learned that he and several other authors had a writing group called “The Inklings.” My name is derived from that group, but also appropriate because of the ink I use in much of my work.

DA: As an artist that uses various mediums, do you find any easier or more difficult?

MA: I tend to choose processes and mediums that work for me both visually and in practice. It’s not so much the medium that sets the degree of difficulty,

Vol. 8 • No. 12

it’s really the subject of the piece I’m working on.

DA: This year you had a solo exhibit. What was that like?

MA: It was amazing! Very nervewracking and scary, but also really satisfying. The series that I showed, “Muses” consisted of 48 portraits that I worked on for just shy of two years! It was very cool to see all that work displayed in its entirety.

DA: You’re a member of SWLArt. What do you do with the group?

MA: I’m a very background member, but I participate in as many art event opportunities as I can with the group.

Right now, our only consistent event is LUNArt, where we set up art booths on the first and third Sunday of each month outside Luna Live. It’s hot outside, but we rally and hope that the event will become a staple of downtown culture.

DA: Do you have any upcoming

exhibits or events?

MA: Absolutely! I was just part of the Gallery Promenade, and I will be at Chuck Fest, and part of an exhibit at Walnut Grove this month.

and handmade jewelry available from my Etsy shop and you can purchase prints, clothing, and other great stuff from my Society6 store.

DA: Is there anything else that we should know about you?

MA: I’m readily available on social media, and it’s the easiest way to view my work and contact me.

Facebook.com/ TheInklingGirl Twitter/Instagram: @ TheInklingGirl TheInklingGirl.etsy.com Society6.com/ TheInklingGirl

SWLArt Group is a collaboration of a variety of local groups & artists, to support the development and improvement of their quality of life & business as well as strengthen the over cultural growth of the community. For more information about SWLArt Group, artists, or events visit their official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/swlart. Also be sure to follow them on Instagram and Twitter @swlart.

DA: What do you do when you aren’t creating?

MA: I spend most of my time caring for my daughter and trying to keep the laundry from taking over my house! I also spend a lot of time with my chickens. I’m overly fond of them.

DA: Where can your work be

found, and how can people contact you?

MA: Locally, you can find some of my pieces at The Round About, a brand new record store in downtown Lake Charles. I also have some work in my home of DeQuincy on display inside the Town Hall Museum. Online, I have original works Vol. 8 • No. 12

October 7, 2016 39

Thursday, Oct. 6 Amanda Walker 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Ronnie Fruge 6 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, Old Town Road, LC Leroy Thomas & Zydeco Roadrunners 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Anteeks 9 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Nashville South 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort

40 October 7, 2016

2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Friday, Oct. 7 Amanda Walker 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Flashback 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, Old Town Road, LC

Pat Green

8:30 p.m. @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www. ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 7453000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

Cherry 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 Anteeks 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Troy Laz Band 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Joe Harmon & the Harmonics 10 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub

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

Saturday, Oct. 8 Amanda Walker 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Frayed Soul 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, Old Town Road, LC

Cheech and Chong!

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

Vol. 8 • No. 12

ning at 2 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

Troy Laz Band 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Cherry 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 Anteeks 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC DJ CaGe 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Sunday, Oct. 9 Chester & Jarius Daigle JD’s Whiskey Brunch @ 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.

L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Clay Cormier 4 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, Old Town Road, LC Brittany Pfantz 7 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC Anteeks 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Monday, Oct. 10 Bryan Trahan 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Clint Faulk 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Vol. 8 • No. 12

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

Tuesday, Oct. 11 Kay Miller 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Trivial Tuesdays Live Team Trivia

Throwback Thursday and Lucky Hour Buy One, Get One 8-11 p.m. @ Texas Longhorn Club 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton Michael Hix 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

7:30 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St.

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

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

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

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

Friday, Oct. 14

Wednesday, Oct. 12

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

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

Mike Fulmer 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, Old Town Road, LC

Chris Miller & The Bayou Roots 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC

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

Whacky Wednesday with DJ Mark 7 p.m. @ Cajuns Wharf 3500 Ryan St, Lake Charles

Double Play DJ 8 p.m. @ Texas Longhorn Club 2374 HWY 109 S, Vinton

Kevin Johnson & Ryan Bourque

.38 Special

8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC Rachel & Ian 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Thursday, Oct. 13

8:30 p.m. @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www. ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 7453000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

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

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

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

BB & Company 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton October 7, 2016 41

Michael Hix 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

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

The Kings of Mojo 10 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Just Take Those Old Records Off the Shelf…

There’s that old axiom that what’s new will become old will become new again, and the music and entertainment world are certainly not exempt. Stylistically, we’ve seen musical themes, recording methods and even instrumentation and orchestration often throw back to a generation or more before its time in some of the newer music being produced today. However, not only do we see the way music is made taking notes from days gone by, but the way we listen to

42 October 7, 2016

Saturday, Oct. 15 Katie Whitney & Chip Radford 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Louisiana’s Bad Habit 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, Old Town Road, LC

music, even in this digital age, is tapping into its more primitive roots in a surprisingly big way.

The year 2007 saw the beginning of what has become known as the Vinyl Revival. Music fans are falling back into the “stacks of wax” and have helped the industry to see notable growth (as much as 30 percent) every single year for over a decade now. While the market share of CD sales are dropping year after year, vinyl sales are currently at a near 30-YEAR high. In addition, roughly 45 percent of vinyl sales today are coming from independent record stores that offer vinylphiles not just a place to buy new and used records but a place to congregate, trade and share in all the things

Jeff Foxworthy 8 p.m. @ the Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Tickets on sale now!

The Charlie Daniels Band 8 p.m. @ The Grand Event Center

that makes vinyl a fun and, to many, a preferred way to listen to music.

But Lake Charles hasn’t seen a proper record store in some 25 years now. We don’t have a place to foster and nurture this community of music fans. We don’t have passionate purveyors seeking out and tracking down everyone’s old favorite or new favorite record. We don’t have a musical home.

Well, Lake Charles, I am happy to say that we, in fact, do now.

Bring Over Some of Your Old Motown Records…

Eric Daigle and Kevin Lambert are anything but new to the Lake Charles music scene. Working together and separately, they have been members of acts such as Tuesday’s Debut and Paper Planes that lit up downtown stages even in the days before Hurricane Rita. Now, the two young men have partnered up in a new way to help bring the world of vinyl back to the Lake City in a real way.

September 17 was the grand opening of The Round About at 311 Broad Street and both guys are excited about where they’ve started and where they see themselves going. They said that they had way more activity than they anticipated and were hard at work building an order to restock the shelves when I visited with them the following Monday. After chatting music for a few (and placing my request for the new Wilco record) we resigned to nearby Stellar Beans for Vol. 8 • No. 12

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

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

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

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

BB & Company 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton

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

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

a cup of Joe and to find out a bit more about the two guys planning to make all your vinyl dreams come true!

Lambert, 28 and Daigle, 34 are, like myself, still a bit young for the “Vinyl Era,” per se. By the time we were old enough to buy music, cassettes and CDs were the format du jour and all we knew of records were the one our parents had lying around the house. Well, it’s no surprise that that’s where all three of us started.

Daigle says, “My parents were big time classic rockers, everything from Led Zeppelin to Prince, Cat Stevens, Procol Harum. Pink Floyd was it for my dad though, so Dark Side of the Moon was probably the first favorite of mine that I just listened to a million times.”

“Yeah, same for me,” said Lambert.

“Dad listened to a lot of what was hot on the radio, but Mom was always playing John Denver’s Greatest Hits, and I was like… ughhh! I though it was cheesy and corny back then, but now I cry when I listen to him. I think he’s just wonderful.

I even had to call my Mom eventually and say ‘I’m sorry’ and ‘Thank you’ now

that I’m older, but it was those experiences that began my love of records and the music that was on them at that time.”

When I pointed out that opening a record store in 2016 in Lake Charles may strike some people as a bit crazy, Lambert was quick to reply.

“Yeah, but it’s happening elsewhere.

This industry is seeing growth instead of a decline. It’s just not happening here… or, at least it wasn’t. Now it it’s here, too.”

“You know, being a part of the music scene here, we’ve watched Downtown Lake Charles grow and develop through the years,” Daigle said. “We’ve been wanting to see something like this happen for a long time now and we felt like it was time to make it a reality.”

And while not everyone of our generation and younger will jump on the vinyl trend, many already have and there are new fans out there that aren’t even aware of it yet. Daigle mentioned one customer in particular that showed up for the grand opening that was about as new to the vinyl experience as anyone could be.

“This gal had never heard a record in her life until a few days before com-

ing into the store,” he recalls. “She is a McNeese student who was listening to an opera for something she was working on and that was the first actual record she’d ever heard. She was even amazed to see hip-hop on vinyl, but that was pretty cool. One listen and she was interested enough to come check out the new record store in town. That’s REALLY cool.”

But for fans young and old, there is not only a place to go get nostalgic over the music of your parents’ youth, but there are a couple of passionate, musically minded guys who will clearly go out of their way to find and stock music new and old for those of us who like the highs and lows and all the crackle and pops that make the vinyl listening experience something unique that I hope continues for generations to come. If you are even remotely into music, stop by and meet these guys and maybe, grab you a table and a couple of records. You just might find that you are “one of us’ and that you, too, have a new musical home right here in good ol’ Lake Chuck.

I really hope to see you there.

Something is Happening Here...

And while we all can enjoy sitting at home and spinning some great records, there’s still plenty out there that you need to GO SEE! Starting with...

Saturday, October 8: Cheech and Chong – Golden Nugget Lake Charles The bon vivants of the cinematic dope world are bringing the legendary bleary-eyed antics of Up In Smoke, Nice Dreams and Cheech and Chong’s Next Movie to the Golden Nugget Grand Ballroom for a night of chronic comedy that’s liable to leave you rolling in the aisles and lusting over a bag of potato chips and a Twinkie. Nonetheless, the Sultans of Sativa are making their way to the Lake City on October 8. If you have ever found their stoney antics amusing, then I cannot urge you enough to go SEE THIS SHOW, MAAAAANNNN!!!!!!

Friday, October 9: LC Symphony Presents Peter and The Wolf and Beethoven’s 7th The Lake Charles Symphony is kicking off its 2016-2017 classical season with two legendary works. Joined by the Francis G. Bulber Youth Orchestra, the LCS, under the direction of Maestro Bohuslav Rattay, will be presenting Prokofi ev’s classic Peter and the Wolf followed by the 7th Symphony of Ludwig van Beethoven live on the Rosa Hart stage. Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for students and active military. For more information call (337) 433-1611 or visit www.lcsymphony.com GO SEE THIS SHOW! Vol. 8 • No. 12

October 7, 2016 43

Sunday, Oct. 16 Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar and Grill 710 Ryan St., LC

Chester & Jarius Daigle JD’s Whiskey Brunch @ 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.

L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Reed Planchard 4 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, Old Town Road, LC Charlie Wayne 7 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Orphan Annie

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

Monday, Oct. 17 Kenneth Espree 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC DJ Jose Mata 8 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Cam Pyle 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Tuesday, Oct. 18 Kevin Lambert 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Clint Faulk

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

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

DJ Verrett 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC DJ Jose Mata 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC The Strangers 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Wednesday, Oct. 19 Chester Daigle 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Chris Miller & The Bayou Roots 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Kory Fontenot 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC 3HG 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

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

Friday, Oct. 21 Mason Fedduci & Jake Spinella 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Gus, Reed & Randy 7 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 3059, Old Town Road, LC

Marshall Tucker Band 8:30 p.m. @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www. ticketmaster.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 7453000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

LA Express 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton Encore 9 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Thursday, Oct. 20 Mason Fedduci & Jake Spinella

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

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

Saturday, Oct. 22

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

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

Joe Harmon & the Harmonics 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder 3HG 44 October 7, 2016

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

ZZ Top

Vol. 8 • No. 12

Vol. 8 • No. 12

October 7, 2016 45

BOUDIN WARS/STARS AND STRIPES CAR SHOW The City of Sulphur was abuzz as The Brimstone Museum’s Boudin Wars and the City’s Stars and Stripes Car Show took over The Grove and the Brimstone Cultural Center. Local vendors offered the best boudin around while gear heads showed off their creations, defying the rain. It was a great afternoon and kudos to all who worked hard to make it happen!

Harley and Lori Quells

Michael Hollier and James Istre

Jennifer Vincent, Marie and Tina Hollier with Alexa Lacy

Jacob Lowery, Hannah Wanamaker and Mykeia Guillory

Kwame Drummer, Nicky Papillion, Kayden Drummer and Cody Popillion

CHARLEY PRIDE AT GOLDEN NUGGET Celebrating 50 years of performing, Country Music legend Charley Pride lit up the Golden Nugget stage delivering countless hits and some special tunes commemorating his friends and collaborators of the last five decades. Pride wowed the crowd and hung out afterwards to sign autographs and see his old buddy Jo-El Sonnier, with whom he will be doing a Country Music Cruise early next year. Great show and a great night all around!

Janice Hardey, Janae Carlin and Jamie Stout

Diana Mooresitton and Carlos Torres 46 October 7, 2016

Brad and Julie Lopez

Jason and Toni Gautreaux

Jo-El and Bobbye Sonnier with Charley Pride

Vol. 8 • No. 12

STEVEN F. AUSTIN AT MSU TAILGATING If you’ve missed that fact that football is back, you are NOT an MSU Cowboys fan! Tailgaters turned out in force for the pregame camaraderie before the Southland Conference opener for the Pokes this past weekend. The ‘Boys put up a great game but a late 4th quarter pass from the Lumberjacks’ QB Hunter Taylor put SFA up for a 31-28 win. Great game, Pokes!

We’ll get ‘em next time!

Taylor Bourque and Clay Brast

Olivier, Leo, Liam and Elizabeth Grosset

Jennifer, Jeremy and Christian Istre

Racissa Savoie, Shelby Willis and Morgan Talbot

Vince and Coleen McCoy with Vickie and Chuck Magee

SWLA 911 MEMORIAL CLIMB As we marked the 15th anniversary of the 911 attacks, locals and first responders from across the state gathered at the Capitol One to climb the equivalent of the 110 floors of the World Trade Center Tower, including robotics demonstrations from the Louisiana State Police, chopper demos from Acadian Ambulance and “The Spirit of Louisiana,” a fire truck donated from Louisiana to the NYFD after 911, who then donated to the City of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.

To all who participated, we salute you!

Greg Davis, Mike Doucet and Jeremy Rist

Aaron, Rodney, Jessica and Kate Duhon and Sarah Frazier Vol. 8 • No. 12

Sierra Collins and Joseph Frazier

Brian Kirkconnell and Patrick Faulk

Matthew LaFleur, Mollie and Aubrey Faulk and Bethany Baudoin October 7, 2016 47